MiRNAs: Emerging Agents for Therapeutic Effects of Polyphenols on Ovarian Cancer

In terms of female reproductive tract cancers, ovarian cancer remains the principal reason for mortality globally and is notably difficult to identify in its early stages. This fact highlights the critical need to establish prevention strategies for patients with ovarian cancer, look for new robust diagnostic and prognostic markers, and identify potential targets of response to treatment. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are one of the novel treatment targets in cancer treatment. Thus, understanding the part of miRNAs in the pathogenesis and metastasis of ovarian cancer is at the center of researchers' attention. MiRNAs are suggested to play a role in modulating many essential cancer processes, like cell proliferation, apoptosis, differentiation, adhesion, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and invasion. In two recent decades, natural polyphenols' anti-cancer features have been a focal point of research. Meanwhile, polyphenols are good research subjects for developing new cancer treatments. Polyphenols can modify miRNA expression and impact the function of transcription factors when used as dietary supplements. Multiple works have indicated the impact of polyphenols, including quercetin, genistein, curcumin, and resveratrol, on miRNA expression in vitro and in vivo. Here, we provide an in-depth description of four polyphenols used as dietary supplements: quercetin, genistein, curcumin, and resveratrol, and we summarize what is currently known about their regulatory abilities on influencing the miRNA functions in ovarian tumors to achieve therapeutic approaches.

Role of non-coding RNAs in neuroblastoma

Neuroblastoma is known as the most prevalent extracranial malignancy in childhood with a neural crest origin. It has been widely accepted that non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) play important roles in many types of cancer, including glioma and gastrointestinal cancers. They may regulate the cancer gene network. According to recent sequencing and profiling studies, ncRNAs genes are deregulated in human cancers via deletion, amplification, abnormal epigenetic, or transcriptional regulation. Disturbances in the expression of ncRNAs may act either as oncogenes or as anti-tumor suppressor genes, and can lead to the induction of cancer hallmarks. ncRNAs can be secreted from tumor cells inside exosomes, where they can be transferred to other cells to affect their function. However, these topics still need more study to clarify their exact roles, so the present review addresses different roles and functions of ncRNAs in neuroblastoma.

Modulation of long non-coding RNAs by resveratrol as a potential therapeutic approach in cancer: A comprehensive review

LncRNAs, or long non-coding RNAs, are a subset of RNAs that play a regulatory role in a wide range of biological functions, including RNA processing, epigenetic regulation, and signal transduction. Recent research indicates that lncRNAs play a key role in the development and spread of cancer by being dysregulated in the disease. In addition, lncRNAs have been linked to the overexpression of certain proteins that are involved in tumor development and progression. Resveratrol has anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties that it exerts through regulating different lncRNAs. By the regulation of tumor-supportive and tumor-suppressive lncRNAs, resveratrol acts as an anti-cancer agent. By downregulating the tumor-supportive lncRNAs DANCR, MALAT1, CCAT1, CRNDE, HOTAIR, PCAT1, PVT1, SNHG16, AK001796, DIO3OS, GAS5 and H19, and upregulating MEG3, PTTG3P, BISPR, PCAT29, GAS5, LOC146880, HOTAIR, PCA3, NBR2, this herbal remedy causes apoptosis and cytotoxicity. For the purpose of using polyphenols in cancer therapy, it would be helpful to have more in-depth knowledge about lncRNA modulation via resveratrol. Here, we discuss the current knowledge and future promise of resveratrol as modulators of lncRNAs in different cancers.

Cellular Conversations in Glioblastoma Progression, Diagnosis and Treatment

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most frequent malignancy among primary brain tumors in adults and one of the worst 5-year survival rates (< 7%) among all human cancers. Till now, treatments that target particular cell or intracellular metabolism have not improved patients' survival. GBM recruits healthy brain cells and subverts their processes to create a microenvironment that contributes to supporting tumor progression. This microenvironment encompasses a complex network in which malignant cells interact with each other and with normal and immune cells to promote tumor proliferation, angiogenesis, metastasis, immune suppression, and treatment resistance. Communication can be direct via cell-to-cell contact, mainly through adhesion molecules, tunneling nanotubes, gap junctions, or indirect by conventional paracrine signaling by cytokine, neurotransmitter, and extracellular vesicles. Understanding these communication routes could open up new avenues for the treatment of this lethal tumor. Hence, therapeutic approaches based on glioma cells` communication have recently drawn attention. This review summarizes recent findings on the crosstalk between glioblastoma cells and their tumor microenvironment, and the impact of this conversation on glioblastoma progression. We also discuss the mechanism of communication of glioma cells and their importance as therapeutic targets and diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers. Overall, understanding the biological mechanism of specific interactions in the tumor microenvironment may help in predicting patient prognosis and developing novel therapeutic strategies to target GBM.

CircRNAs: A Novel Strategy in Diagnosis and Treatment of Thyroid Cancer

Thyroid cancer is one of the most frequent cancers globally, and its incidence has risen recently. The clinical behavior of thyroid cancer includes a wide range, from benign to invasive malignant tumors. Thus, precious diagnostic activities before therapeutic work are required. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) along with microRNAs (miRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are known as non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs). Large amounts of investigations have indicated that circRNAs can participate in multiple cellular processes, especially in tumorigenesis. Furthermore, circRNAs are stable in blood or plasma, as well as they are specific in different tissues. Therefore, they could serve as a potential diagnostic biomarker for cancer cells. Limited studies investigated the role of circRNAs in some processes involved in thyroid cancer. In this review, we summarized the current evidence on the potential clinical involvement of circRNAs in thyroid cancer.

Resveratrol and Cervical Cancer: A New Therapeutic Option

Globally, cervical cancer is the second most common cancer and the third main cause of death related to cancer in women. The cervical cancer mortality rate is higher in underdeveloped and developing vs. developed countries. Chronic infection with human papilloma virus (HPV) can trigger cervical cancer by an interplay of a variety of pathways and molecules (i.e., inflammatory mediators, oxidative stress and apoptosis), leading to carcinogenesis and cancer progression. Cervical carcinoma is treatable in the early stages, while it progresses to metastasis at advanced stages; however, generally, it is poorly manageable with current treatment options. For future advances in the treatment of metastatic or recurrent cervical cancer carcinoma, the identification of new therapeutic platforms is necessary. A new generation of drugs, herbs and spices may provide novel opportunities for cancer therapy. Among the herb-based components, resveratrol has several beneficial effects given its anticancer activities (e.g., anti-angiogenesis, anti-proliferation, anti-metastatic and pro-apoptotic). Hence, this therapeutic agent may prove to have promising potential if clinically corroborated to possess anticancer efficacy. Here, we summarize the chemopreventive and treatment actions of resveratrol for cervical cancer as well as its mechanism of action.

Targeting Glioma Cells with Nutraceuticals: Therapeutic Effects Based on Molecular Mechanisms, New Evidence, and Perspectives

Gliomas are the most common malignant cancers of the brain that have unregulated proliferation known as a highly invasive tumor. Hence, their relapse rate is high and the prognosis is low. Despite remarkable advances in neuroimaging, neurosurgery, and radiation therapy, they, especially glioblastoma, are highly resistant to treatments including radiotherapy, surgery, and temozolomide chemotherapy. The average survival rate for patients with malignant glioma is still less than two years, accordingly, the search for new treatment options has recently become an urgent need. Today, a number of nutraceuticals have been considered because of their special role in inhibiting the angiogenic process, metastasis, and apoptosis, and ultimately inhibiting tumor growth, including glioma. Nutraceuticals can disrupt cancer cells by affecting different pathways. In fact, these compounds can reduce the growth of cancer cells, inhibit their proliferation and angiogenesis, as well as induce apoptosis in these cells and play an important role in various stages of treatment. One of the key target of nutraceuticals may be to regulate cellular signaling pathways such as PI3K/Akt/mTORC1, JAK/STAT, and GSK-3 or to exert their effects through other mechanisms such as cytokine receptors and inflammatory pathways, reactive oxygen species, and miRNAs. This review refers to the results of recent studies and target molecules as well as signaling pathways affected by some nutraceuticals in glioma cells. These studies indicated that clinical trials are imminent and new approaches can be beneficial for patients.

Morus Alba leaf extract affects metabolic profiles, biomarkers inflammation and oxidative stress in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A double-blind clinical trial

INTRODUCTION

Morus Alba extract, despite its special properties, has been less studied in terms of its effects on metabolic profiles in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This study was carried out to determine the effects of Morus Alba extract, known as white mulberry, on liver enzymes, biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress, insulin metabolism and lipid profiles in patients with T2DM.

METHODS

The current randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted among 60 patients with T2DM. Subjects were randomly divided into 2 groups to receive either Morus Alba extract (300 mg) (n = 30) or placebo (n = 30) twice a day. Fasting blood samples were collected at the baseline and 12 weeks after intervention to quantify related markers.

RESULTS

Morus Alba extract intake significantly decreased insulin (P = 0.026) and malondialdehyde (MDA) (P < 0.001), and significantly increased HDL-cholesterol concentrations (P = 0.001) compared with the placebo. However, Morus Alba extract intake did not affect other metabolic profiles.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study shown that the 12-week administration of Morus Alba extract among subjects with T2DM had beneficial effects on HDL-cholesterol, insulin and MDA levels, but did not affect other metabolic profiles. The present study was registered in the Iranian website for clinical trials as http://www.irct.ir: IRCT2016081312438N21.

Gynecologic Cancer, Cancer Stem Cells, and Possible Targeted Therapies

Gynecologic cancer is one of the main causes of death in women. In this type of cancer, several molecules (oncogenes or tumor suppressor genes) contribute to the tumorigenic process, invasion, metastasis, and resistance to treatment. Based on recent evidence, the detection of molecular changes in these genes could have clinical importance for the early detection and evaluation of tumor grade, as well as the selection of targeted treatment. Researchers have recently focused on cancer stem cells (CSCs) in the treatment of gynecologic cancer because of their ability to induce progression and recurrence of malignancy. This has highlighted the importance of a better understanding of the molecular basis of CSCs. The purpose of this review is to focus on the molecular mechanism of gynecologic cancer and the role of CSCs to discover more specific therapeutic approaches to gynecologic cancer treatment.

Potential of natural products in the treatment of myocardial infarction: focus on molecular mechanisms

Although conventional drugs are widely used in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease (CVD), they are being used less frequently due to concerns about possible side effects over the long term. There has been a renewed research interest in medicinal plant products, and their role in protecting the cardiovascular system and treating CVD, which are now being considered as potential alternatives to modern drugs. The most important mechanism causing damage to the myocardium after heart attack and reperfusion, is increased levels of free radicals and oxidative stress. Therefore, treatment approaches often focus on reducing free radicals or enhancing antioxidant defense mechanism. It has been previously reported that bioactive natural products can protect the heart muscle in myocardial infarction (MI). Since these compounds are readily available in fruits and vegetables, they could prevent the risk of MI if they are consumed daily. Although the benefits of a healthy diet are well known, many scientific studies have focused on whether pure natural compounds can prevent and treat MI. In this review we summarize the effects of curcumin, resveratrol, quercitin, berberine, and tanshinone on MI and CVD, and focus on their proposed molecular mechanisms of action.

Autophagy and gastrointestinal cancers: the behind the scenes role of long non-coding RNAs in initiation, progression, and treatment resistance

Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers comprise a heterogeneous group of complex disorders that affect different organs, including esophagus, stomach, gallbladder, liver, biliary tract, pancreas, small intestine, colon, rectum, and anus. Recently, an explosion in nucleic acid-based technologies has led to the discovery of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) that have been found to possess unique regulatory functions. This class of RNAs is >200 nucleotides in length, and is characterized by their lack of protein coding. LncRNAs exert regulatory effects in GI cancer development by affecting different functions such as the proliferation and metastasis of cancer cells, apoptosis, glycolysis and angiogenesis. Over the past few decades, considerable evidence has revealed the important role of autophagy in both GI cancer progression and suppression. In addition, recent studies have confirmed a significant correlation between lncRNAs and the regulation of autophagy. In this review, we summarize how lncRNAs play a behind the scenes role in the pathogenesis of GI cancers through regulation of autophagy.

Curcumin administration and the effects on psychological status and markers of inflammation and oxidative damage in patients with type 2 diabetes and coronary heart disease

INTRODUCTION

This study assessed the effects of curcumin intake on psychological status, markers of inflammation and oxidative damage in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and coronary heart disease (CHD).

METHOD

This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was performed in 60 patients with T2DM and CHD, aged 45-85 years with 2- and 3-vessel CHD. Patients were randomized into two groups to receive either 1000 mg/day curcumin (n = 30) or placebo (n = 30) for 12 weeks. Using RT-PCR method, gene expression related to insulin metabolism and inflammatory markers on mononuclear cells from peripheral blood was evaluated.

RESULT

Curcumin intake significantly decreased Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) (β -1.27; 95% CI, -2.27, -0.31; P = 0.01) compared to the placebo group. Curcumin intake caused a significant reduction in malondialdehyde (MDA) (β -0.20 μmol/L; 95% CI, -0.36, -0.04; P = 0.01), significant increase in total antioxidant capacity (TAC) (β 75.82 mmol/L; 95% CI, 3.400, 148.25; P = 0.04) and glutathione (GSH) levels (β 63.48 μmol/L; 95% CI, 26.58, 100.37; P = 0.001) when compared with the placebo. Additionally, curcumin intake upregulated peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ) (P = 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Curcumin intake for 12 weeks in patients with T2DM and CHD had beneficial effects on PSQI, TAC, GSH, MDA values, and gene expression of PPAR-γ. This study was retrospectively registered in the Iranian website (www.irct.ir) for registration of clinical trials (http://www.irct.ir: IRCT20170513033941N63).

Molecular and Biological Functions of Quercetin as a Natural Solution for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention and Treatment

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a worldwide health problem with growing up rates of mortality and morbidity. Many risk factors, including high blood pressure, cigarette smoking, diabetes, obesity, and dyslipidemia are responsible for CVD. CVD can be prevented by some simple and cost-effective steps such as smoking cessation, normalizing body weight, regular physical activity, and dietary changes, including decreasing saturated fats, increasing the intake of vegetables and fruits, and reducing sugar intake. In the last decades, growing up number of studies were performed to explain the possible function of non-nutrient substances from the diet which might prevent CVD. One of these natural compounds is quercetin which is widely present in vegetables, tea, fruits and wine. Many in vitro, in vivo and clinical studies have indicated the cardioprotective functions of quercetin. They can be explained by quercetin's reducing blood pressure, antioxidant potential and some other activities. This review evaluates the experimental and clinical studies that have studied the effect of quercetin in CVD and summarizes the molecular mechanisms of action as well as clinical effects of quercetin in CVD.

Anti-inflammatory and antioxidative effects of thiamin supplements in patients with gestational diabetes mellitus

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of thiamin supplementation on biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress in patients with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).

METHODS

This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted among 60 patients with GDM. Patients were randomly allocated into two groups to receive either 100 mg/day thiamin supplements (n = 30) or placebo (n = 30) for 6 weeks.

RESULTS

Thiamin supplementation significantly decreased serum high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) (β - 0.98 mg/L; 95% CI, -1.54, -0.42; p = .001) and plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) levels (β - 0.86 µmol/L; 95% CI, -1.15, -0.57; p < .001) when compared with the placebo. In addition, thiamin supplementation downregulated gene expression of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) (p = .002) in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of patients with GDM. Thiamin supplementation did not affect other biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress.

CONCLUSION

Overall, thiamin supplementation for 6 weeks to patients with GDM significantly reduced hs-CRP and MDA levels, and gene expression of TNF-α, but did not affect other biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

Clinical Trials.govIdentifier no. http://www.irct.ir: IRCT20170513033941N58.

The Effects of Probiotic Supplementation on Genetic and Metabolic Profiles in Patients with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: a Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial

This study was carried out to evaluate the effects of probiotic supplementation on genetic and metabolic profiles in patients with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) who were not on oral hypoglycemic agents. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted in 48 patients with GDM. Participants were randomly divided into two groups to intake either probiotic capsule containing Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus casei, Bifidobacterium bifidum, Lactobacillus fermentum (2 × 10⁹ CFU/g each) (n = 24) or placebo (n = 24) for 6 weeks. Probiotic intake upregulated peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (P = 0.01), transforming growth factor beta (P = 0.002) and vascular endothelial growth factor (P = 0.006), and downregulated gene expression of tumor necrosis factor alpha (P = 0.03) in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of subjects with GDM. In addition, probiotic supplementation significantly decreased fasting plasma glucose (β, - 3.43 mg/dL; 95% CI, - 6.48, - 0.38; P = 0.02), serum insulin levels (β, - 2.29 μIU/mL; 95% CI, - 3.60, - 0.99; P = 0.001), and insulin resistance (β, - 0.67; 95% CI, - 1.05, - 0.29; P = 0.001) and significantly increased insulin sensitivity (β, 0.009; 95% CI, 0.004, 0.01; P = 0.001) compared with the placebo. Additionally, consuming probiotic significantly decreased triglycerides (P = 0.02), VLDL-cholesterol (P = 0.02), and total-/HDL-cholesterol ratio (P = 0.006) and significantly increased HDL-cholesterol levels (P = 0.03) compared with the placebo. Finally, probiotic administration led to a significant reduction in plasma malondialdehyde (P < 0.001), and a significant elevation in plasma nitric oxide (P = 0.01) and total antioxidant capacity (P = 0.01) was observed compared with the placebo. Overall, probiotic supplementation for 6 weeks to patients with GDM had beneficial effects on gene expression related to insulin and inflammation, glycemic control, few lipid profiles, inflammatory markers, and oxidative stress.

The Effects of Nano-curcumin on Metabolic Status in Patients With Diabetes on Hemodialysis, a Randomized, Double Blind, Placebo-controlled Trial

INTRODUCTION

This study evaluated the effects of nano-curcumin intake on metabolic status in patients with diabetes on hemodialysis (HD).

METHODS

This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was performed on 60 patients with diabetes on HD. Participants were randomly divided into two groups to take either 80 mg/d nano-curcumin (n = 30) or placebo (n = 30) for 12 weeks.

RESULTS

Nano-curcumin significantly decreased fasting plasma glucose (β = -19.68 mg/dL, 95% CI: -33.48 to -5.88; P < .05) and serum insulin levels (β = -1.70 μIU/mL, 95% CI: -2.96 to -0.44; P < .05) when compared with patients who received placebo. Nanocurcumin treatment was associated with a significant reduction in triglycerides (β = -16.13 mg/dL, 95% CI: -31.51 to -0.75; P < .05), VLDL-cholesterol (β = -3.22 mg/dL, 95% CI: -6.30 to -0.15; P < .05), total cholesterol (β = -17.83 mg/dL, 95% CI: -29.22 to -6.45; P < .05), LDL-cholesterol (β = -15.20 mg/dL, 95% CI: -25.53 to -4.87; P < .05), and total-cholesterol/HDL-cholesterol ratio (β = -1.15, 95% CI: -0.2.10 to -0.21; P < .05) when compared with the placebo. Nanocurcumin also resulted in a significant reduction of serum high sensitivity CRP (β = -0.78 mg/L, 95% CI: -1.41 to -0.15; P < .05), and plasma malondialdehyde (β = -0.25 μmol/L, 95% CI: -0.45 to -0.04; P < .05); but also with a significant increase in plasma total antioxidant capacity (β = 52.43 mmol/L; 95% CI: 4.52 to 100.35; P < .05) and total nitrite levels (β = 3.62 μmol/L, 95% CI: 2.17 to 5.08; P < .001) when compared with placebo.

CONCLUSION

Nano-curcumin intake for 12 weeks had beneficial effects on metabolic profile in patients with diabetes on HD.

Circular RNAs: new genetic tools in melanoma

Melanoma is the most lethal form of skin cancer. New technologies have resulted in major advances in the diagnosis and treatment of melanoma and other cancer types. Recently, some studies have investigated the role of circular RNAs (circRNAs) in different cancers. CircRNAs are a member of long noncoding RNA family mainly formed through back-splicing and have a closed-loop structure. These molecules affect several biological and oncogenic cascades in diverse ways via acting as microRNA sponge, interacting with RNA-binding proteins and acting as a transcription regulator. In this review, we made an insight into the impact of circRNA dysregulation in the melanoma tumorigenesis based on the presented evidences.

Chitosan: A compound for drug delivery system in gastric cancer-a review

Gastric cancer is known as the fourth most common cancer and the second main cause of cancer-related deaths. Gastric cancer has some characteristics including high incidence rates of metastasis and mortality as well as low rates of early diagnosis, radical resection and 5-year survival. Radical surgery and following chemotherapy has been done for patients with early gastric cancer leading to 90 % survival rate in 5-year after operation. Besides, in advanced stage some cases don't have the chance of surgery as well as the risk of metastasis is high in these patients overally leading to poor prognosis. In recent years, finding a suitable drug delivery system for chemotherapeutic drugs in gastric cancer is an considerable subject for researchers. Chitosan is known as an appropriate compound for chemo-drug delivery in cancer treatment due to its high biodegradability and biocompatibility. Moreover, trans-mucosal drug delivery is facilitated by chitosan via its mucoadhesive and cationic features enhancing interaction with mucous membrane. In addition, a large amount of experimental evidence has reported the efficacy of chitosan for drug delivery in gastric cancer. Thus, the aim of this article was to review this evidence as well as new chitosan-based drug delivery systems investigated in gastric cancer.

The Influences of Chromium Supplementation on Metabolic Status in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Coronary Heart Disease

This investigation was conducted to determine the effects of chromium supplementation on metabolic status in diabetic patients with coronary heart disease (CHD). This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was performed in 64 diabetic patients with CHD between October 2017 and January 2018. Patients were randomly divided into two groups to obtain either 200 μg chromium (n = 32) or placebo (n = 32) for 12 weeks. Chromium supplementation significantly reduced body weight (- 0.9 ± 1.6 vs. + 0.1 ± 0.8 kg, P = 0.001), BMI (- 0.4 ± 0.7 vs. + 0.1 ± 0.3 kg/m², P = 0.002), fasting glucose (β - 11.03 mg/dL; 95% CI, - 18.97, - 3.09; P = 0.007), insulin (β - 1.33 μIU/mL; 95% CI, - 1.90, - 0.76; P < 0.001), and insulin resistance (β - 0.44; 95% CI, - 0.62, - 0.25; P < 0.001) and significantly increased insulin sensitivity (β 0.007; 95% CI, 0.003, 0.01; P < 0.001) compared with the placebo. In addition, taking chromium led to a significant reduction in serum high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) (β - 0.49 mg/L; 95% CI, - 0.91, - 0.06; P = 0.02) and plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) levels (β - 0.22 μmol/L; 95% CI, - 0.35, - 0.10; P = 0.001); also, a significant rise in total antioxidant capacity (TAC) (β 84.54 mmol/L; 95% CI, 31.05, 138.02; P = 0.002) was observed in comparison with placebo. Additionally, chromium administration significantly reduced diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (β - 5.01 mmHg; 95% CI, - 9.04, - 0.97; P = 0.01) compared with the placebo. Overall, the 12-week supplementation of chromium to diabetic patients with CHD had beneficial impacts on weight, BMI, glycemic control, hs-CRP, TAC, MDA, and DBP.Trial Registration www.irct.ir: http://www.irct.ir: IRCT20170513033941N30.

Are anti-inflammatory agents and nutraceuticals - novel inhibitors of PCSK9?

Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) is a protease which increases the lysosomal degradation of low density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) resulting in elevated serum LDL-cholesterol levels. Elevated LDL-cholesterol is the main risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Antibodies to PCSK9 decrease LDL-cholesterol. Recent studies have suggested a direct relationship between PCSK9 and inflammation and the potential inhibitory effects of anti-inflammatory agents against this enzyme. Nutraceuticals are natural compounds, which have numerous anti-inflammatory and lipid-lowering effects. In this review we focus on anti-inflammatory substances and nutraceuticals, which are beneficial in treatment of dyslipidemia. We also reviewed the recent findings concerning the role of PCSK9 as the main target for molecular mechanisms of these substances.

Comparison Between Biomarkers of Kidney Injury, Inflammation, and Oxidative Stress in Patients with Diabetic Nephropathy and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

INTRODUCTION

This study was conducted to compare parameters of kidney injury, oxidative stress and inflammation in people with diabetic nephropathy (DN) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

METHODS

In a cross-sectional study, 57 cases with DN and 57 cases with T2DM were included in the study. Fasting blood samples were obtained to determine parameters of kidney injury, oxidative stress and inflammation.

RESULTS

The current study showed that patients with DN had higher tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) (167.0 ± 40.1 vs. 151.4 ± 37.4 ng/L, P < .05) and matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) concentrations (1625.2 ± 631.0 vs. 1391.5 ± 465.4 ng/mL, P < .05) compared with T2DM cases. Moreover, we observed a non-significant increase in MMP-9 levels among patients with DN compared with individuals with T2DM (4864.4 ± 1934.3 vs. 4239.2 ± 1853.9 ng/L, P > .05). Furthermore, advanced glycation end products (AGEs) levels in patients with DN were higher than that of patients with T2DM (8511.7 ± 1799.9 vs. 7660.7 ± 1711.9 AU, P < .05), but the difference in malondialdehyde value was not significant. Finally, we found that total protein levels in cases with DN were enhanced compared with individuals with T2DM (7.1 ± 0.5 vs. 6.9 ± 0.6 mg/dL, P < .05); however, other markers of kidney injury did not change.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, the results of present study revealed that few markers of inflammation and oxidative stress including TNF-α, MMP-2, AGEs levels and total protein levels in patients with DN were significantly higher than that of patients with T2DN. Further studies are necessary to confirm these findings.

Melatonin: A promising agent targeting leukemia

Leukemia or cancer of blood is a well-known cancer, which affects a range of people from newborns to the very old. It is a public health problem throughout the world. By way of treatment, due to the lack of specific anticancer therapies, common treatments of leukemia lead to severe side effects. Nonspecific anticancer drugs result in inhibition of normal cell growth and thereby their necrosis. Moreover, drug resistance is an additional problem, which stands in the way of leukemia treatment. Thus, finding new treatments for leukemia is essential. Melatonin, as a natural product, has been shown to be effective in a wide variety of diseases such as coronary heart disease, schizophrenia, chronic pain, and Alzheimer's disease. In addition, melatonin levels have been observed to be altered in different cancers, such as breast cancer, colorectal cancer endometrial cancer, and hematopoetical cancers. Anticancer features of melatonin such as pro-oxidation, apoptosis induction, antiangiogenesis property and metastasis and invasion inhibition suggest that this natural compound can be used as a potential agent in novel therapeutic strategies for cancers. Also, it has been reported that melatonin has positive and protective effects on different physiological reactions and in normal bone marrow cells suggesting effectiveness in leukemia therapy. Thus, the aim of our paper was to depict and summarize the main molecular targets of melatonin on leukemia models.

Could circRNA be a new biomarker for pre-eclampsia?

Pre-eclampsia is a devastating complication of pregnancy which is characterized by hypertension and proteinuria in pregnant women. Pre-eclampsia is important as it is the leading cause of death. Moreover, untreated pre-eclampsia might lead to other lethal complications, for both fetus and mother. Pre-eclampsia can also affect the quality of life in affected women. Despite a large number of risk factors for pre-eclampsia, these risk factors are able to detect just 30% of women who are susceptible to pre-eclampsia. Heterogeneous manifestations of pre-eclampsia necessitate the discovery of potential biomarkers required for its early detection. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a type of RNA which are more abundant, specific, and highly organized compared with other types of RNA. Accordingly, circRNAs have been suggested as one of the potential biomarkers for different diseases. Recently, researchers have shown interest in the effects of circRNAs in pre-eclampsia, although the current evidence is limited. The majority of obstetricians are probably not aware of circRNAs as a useful biomarker. Here, we aimed to summarize recent supporting evidence and assess the mechanisms by which circRNAs are involved in pre-eclampsia.

Resveratrol is a promising agent for colorectal cancer prevention and treatment: focus on molecular mechanisms

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer and one of the main causes of cancer death entire the world. Environmental, dietary, and lifestyle factors including red meat consumption, cigarette smoking, alcohol intake and family history are the most important risk factors of CRC. Multiple pathways including inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis are involved in its incidence and progression. Resveratrol, a polyphenolic compound, has different pharmacologic functions including anti-inflammation, cancer prevention, lipid-lowering effect, and hypoglycemic effect. Many studies have proved that resveratrol might also represent a chemo preventive effect on CRC. Thus, the aim of the current review is to depict the role of resveratrol in treatment of CRC in a molecular manner.

Targeting regulatory T cells by curcumin: A potential for cancer immunotherapy

Immune system has critical roles in fighting against several diseases like cancer. Cancer cells evolve several ways to escape from the immune system to remain alive and trigger new phases of cancer progression. Regulatory T cells are one of the key components in tumor immune tolerance and contribute to the evasion of cancer cells from the immune system. Targeting regulatory T cells could provide new horizons in designing and development of effective therapeutic platforms for the treatment of various malignancies. Curcumin is the bioactive pigment of turmeric and a well-known phytochemical with a wide range of pharmacological activities. A growing body of evidence has demonstrated that curcumin affects manifold molecular pathways that are implicated in tumorigenesis and cancer metastasis. In this regard, some studies have indicated that this phytochemical could target regulatory T cells and convert them into T helper 1 cells, which possess anti-tumor effects. On the contrary, curcumin is able to increase the number of regulatory T cells in other conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease. Herein, we describe the anti-cancer roles of curcumin via targeting regulatory T cells. Moreover, we summarize the effects of curcumin on regulatory T cell population in other diseases.

Circular RNAs: A novel biomarker for cervical cancer

Besides messenger RNAs, recent RNA-Seq and biochemical analysis showed another type of RNAs as a product of splicing which is named circular RNA (circRNA). Evidence demonstrated that circRNAs are abundant in the cells and are able to show cell/tissue-specific expression or tissue developmental stage which suggest that circRNAs may have regulatory potentials. In recent years, researchers have focused attention on circRNAs because of their key functions in various cellular mechanisms. CircRNAs also have the potential to be as promising biomarkers for diagnosis of various diseases such as cancer. Growing up evidence has shown the various roles of circRNAs in multiple cancers. In recent years, cervical cancer as one of the main causes of cancer death in women has been interesting for molecular research. CircRNAs are one of the novel objects which have recently been evaluated in this cancer. The improvement in our knowledge of the roles of circRNAs in cervical cancer may lead to new transcription therapeutic approaches to cervical cancer inhibition. Therefore, the purpose of this review is to review many studies which examined the role of circRNAs in cervical cancer carcinogenesis and progression up till date and to summarize possible mechanisms of action of circRNAs in cervical neoplasm.

Quercetin: a natural compound for ovarian cancer treatment

Ovarian cancer is the main cause of death among all reproductive cancers in females. In 2018, ovarian cancer was the seventh most common cancer of women entire the world. A wide variety of molecular and genetic alterations as well as different response to therapies in the different types of ovarian cancer lead to problems in design a common therapeutic strategy. Besides, ovarian cancer cells have tendency to acquire resistance to common cancer treatments through multiple mechanisms. Various factors, including cytokines, growth factors, proteases, adhesion molecules, coagulation factors, hormones and apoptotic agents have been examined to find effective cancer treatment. Phytochemicals have been indicated to have great potential anti-cancer properties against various types of cancers. Quercetin is one of the phytochemicals that exists extensively in daily foods. Wide evidences revealed that quercetin is able to inhibit various types of cancers including breast, lung, nasopharyngeal, kidney, colorectal, prostate, pancreatic, and ovarian cancer. Several in vitro and in vivo studied conducted to evaluate cytotoxic effects of quercetin on ovarian cancer. Since quercetin does not harm healthy cells and it is cytotoxic to cancer cells via various mechanisms, researchers suggest that it could be an ideal agent for ovarian cancer treatment or an adjuvant agent in combination with other anti-cancer drugs. Thus, in this review, we focused on chemo-preventive and curative attitude of quercetin for ovarian cancer and summarize some of the most recent findings which regard the possible molecular mechanisms by which this natural compound inhibits this cancer.

CFIm25 and alternative polyadenylation: Conflicting roles in cancer

Alternative polyadenylation (APA) is now widely recognized to regulate gene expression. APA is an RNA-processing mechanism that generates distinct 3' termini on mRNAs, producing mRNA isoforms. Different factors influence the initiation and development of this process. CFIm25 (among others) is a cleavage and polyadenylation factor that plays a key role in the regulation of APA. Shortening of the 3'UTRs on mRNAs leads to enhanced cellular proliferation and tumorigenicity. One reason may be the up-regulation of growth promoting factors, such as Cyclin D1. Different studies have reported a dual role of CFIm25 in cancer (both oncogenic and tumor suppressor). microRNAs (miRNAs) may be involved in CFIm25 function as well as competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs). The present review focuses on the role of CFIm25 in cancer, cancer treatment, and possible involvement in other human diseases. We highlight the involvement of miRNAs and ceRNAs in the function of CFIm25 to affect gene expression. The lack of understanding of the mechanisms and regulation of CFIm25 and APA has underscored the need for further research regarding their role in cancer and other diseases.

Melatonin: A new inhibitor agent for cervical cancer treatment

Cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers between women and is known as the third leading cause of female cancer related deaths annually. Its detection in early stages allows it to be a preventable and generally treatable disease. Increasing evidence revealed, a variety of internal and external factors are associated with initiation and progression of cervical cancer pathogenesis. Human papilloma virus infection is found as a major cause of cervical cancer. Other molecular and biochemical alterations as well as genetic and epigenetic changes are related cervical cancer progression. Current treatment options often have severe side effects and toxicities thus, new adjuvant agents having synergistic effects and ability to decrease different side effects and toxicities are needed. Melatonin is an indolamine compound secreted from the pineal gland which shows wide range anticancer activities. A large amount of studies indicated inhibitory effects of melatonin against various types of cancers. In addition, experimental evidence reports inhibitory effects of melatonin as an adjuvant therapy on cervical cancer by targeting a sequence of different molecular mechanisms. Herein, for first time, we summarized anticervical cancer effects of melatonin and its underlying molecular mechanisms.

Melatonin as a potential inhibitor of colorectal cancer: Molecular mechanisms

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a prevalent disease and a major cause of mortality in the world. Several factors including population aging, poor dietary habits, obesity, insufficient physical activity, and smoking can explain its increased prevalence. CRC is a heterogeneous disease both histopathologically and in term of its molecular and genetic aspects. Melatonin a derivative of tryptophan, is synthesized and released from pineal gland but it is also found in numerous extrapineal tissues including retina, testes, lymphocytes, Harderian gland, gastrointestinal tract, etc. This molecule has several tasks which enhance physiological functions such as antioxidant, antiaging, immunomodulatory, and tumor inhibition. Multiple immunocytochemical studies reported melatonin in the intestinal mucosa where its concentration is greater than in the blood. These findings suggest that melatonin may have a potential inhibitory role in CRC progression. The purpose of this review is to examine the effects of melatonin in molecular pathogenesis and signaling pathways of CRC.

Melatonin is an appropriate candidate for breast cancer treatment: Based on known molecular mechanisms

Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer and one of the most important causes of death in women throughout the world. Breast cancer risk factors include smoking, alcohol consumption, personal and family history, hypertension, and hormone therapy, long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and tobacco usage. Surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy, and neoadjuvant therapy are the current means for breast cancer treatment. Despite hormonal agents and chemotherapy, which have beneficial effects on lowering breast cancer death rate, the reaction of different people to these treatments is still a challenging point. Melatonin (N-acetyl-5-methoxy tryptamine) is a methoxy indole compound that is mainly secreted by the pineal gland at night; it is as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and oncostatic agent. On the basis of recent studies, melatonin has antitumor properties on different cancer types and it may suppress cancer development in vitro and as well as in animal models. It is suggested that melatonin inhibits the development of breast cancer by various mechanisms. This paper summarizes the roles of melatonin in breast cancer treatment from the aspect of its molecular actions.

Melatonin is a potential inhibitor of ovarian cancer: molecular aspects

Ovarian cancer is one of the most common causes of morbidity related to gynecologic malignancies. Possible risk factors are including hereditary ovarian cancer, obesity, diabetes mellitus, alcohol consumption, aging, and smoking. Various molecular signaling pathways including inflammation, oxidative stress, apoptosis and angiogenesis are involved in this progression of ovarian cancer. Standard treatments for recently diagnosed patients are Surgery and chemotherapy such as co-treatment with other drugs such that the exploitation of neoadjuvant chemotherapy is expanding. Melatonin (N-acetyl-5-methoxy-tryptamine), an endogenous agent secreted from the pineal gland, has anti-carcinogenic features, such as regulation of estradiol production, cell cycle modulation, stimulation of apoptosis as well as anti-angiogenetic properties, anti-inflammatory activities, significant antioxidant effects and modulation of various immune system cells and cytokines. Multiple studies have shown the significant beneficial roles of melatonin in various types of cancers including ovarian cancer. This paper aims to shed light on the roles of melatonin in ovarian cancer treatment from the standpoint of the molecular aspects.

Molecular pathogenesis of interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome based on gene expression

Interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome (IC/PBS) is a chronic bladder inflammation that leads to chronic bladder pain and urinary urgency and frequency. The presentation of IC/PBS is heterogeneous, and it is classified as ulcerative IC/PBS and nonulcerative IC/PBS. The main cause of IC/PBS is thought to be a persistent inflammatory condition in the bladder, though the actual pathophysiology has not been identified yet. Although the underlying pathophysiology of IC/PBS is not completely understood, several theories for the etiology of this syndrome have been suggested, including deficiency of the glycosaminoglycan covering urothelium surface that results in leaky urothelium infection, immunological etiology, activated mast cells, neural changes, and inflammation. In addition, there are no gold standards for the detection of this disorder to date. So, determination of gene expression and its role in different signaling pathways in the pathogenesis of this heterogeneous disorder contribute to the more efficient cognition of the pathophysiology of this disease and to the design of effective treatments and molecular diagnostic methods for IC/PBS.

Association between microRNAs expression and signaling pathways of inflammatory markers in diabetic retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy is one of the common and serious microvascular complications of diabetes mellitus, as hyperglycemia has metabolic effects on the retina. Hyperglycemia induces increased oxidative stress, which stimulates inflammation pathways and promotes vascular dysfunction of the retina that leads to increased capillary permeability and vascular leakage. One of the main factors involving diabetic retinopathy is the inflammation signaling pathways. In contemporary times, microRNAs (miRNAs) are identified as functional biomarkers for early detection and treatment of numerous diseases specifically diabetic retinopathy. MiRNAs can modulate gene expression through regulation of transcriptional and posttranscriptional of target genes. With that, miRNAs can regulate almost every cellular and developmental process, including the regulation of instinct immune responses and inflammation. The aim of this study is to investigate the role of miRNAs in inflammation pathways and the pathogenesis of diabetic retinopathy.