Lipid nanoparticle encapsulated large peritoneal macrophages migrate to the lungs via the systemic circulation in a model of clodronate-mediated lung-resident macrophage depletion

Rationale: A mature tissue resident macrophage (TRM) population residing in the peritoneal cavity has been known for its unique ability to migrate to peritoneally located injured tissues and impart wound healing properties. Here, we sought to expand on this unique ability of large peritoneal macrophages (LPMs) by investigating whether these GATA6+ LPMs could also intravasate into systemic circulation and migrate to extra-peritoneally located lungs upon ablating lung-resident alveolar macrophages (AMs) by intranasally administered clodronate liposomes in mice. Methods: C12-200 cationic lipidoid-based nanoparticles were employed to selectively deliver a small interfering RNA (siRNA)-targeting CD-45 labeled with a cyanine 5.5 (Cy5.5) dye to LPMs in vivo via intraperitoneal injection. We utilized a non-invasive optical technique called Diffuse In Vivo Flow Cytometry (DiFC) to then systemically track these LPMs in real time and paired it with more conventional techniques like flow cytometry and immunocytochemistry to initially confirm uptake of C12-200 encapsulated siRNA-Cy5.5 (siRNA-Cy5.5 (C12-200)) into LPMs, and further track them from the peritoneal cavity to the lungs in a mouse model of AM depletion incited by intranasally administered clodronate liposomes. Also, we stained for LPM-specific marker zinc-finger transcription factor GATA6 in harvested cells from biofluids like broncho-alveolar lavage as well as whole blood to probe for Cy5.5-labeled LPMs in the lungs as well as in systemic circulation. Results: siRNA-Cy5.5 (C12-200) was robustly taken up by LPMs. Upon depletion of lung-resident AMs, these siRNA-Cy5.5 (C12-200) labeled LPMs rapidly migrated to the lungs via systemic circulation within 12-24 h. DiFC results showed that these LPMs intravasated from the peritoneal cavity and utilized a systemic route of migration. Moreover, immunocytochemical staining of zinc-finger transcription factor GATA6 further confirmed results from DiFC and flow cytometry, confirming the presence of siRNA-Cy5.5 (C12-200)-labeled LPMs in the peritoneum, whole blood and BALF only upon clodronate-administration. Conclusion: Our results indicate for the very first time that selective tropism, migration, and infiltration of LPMs into extra-peritoneally located lungs was dependent on clodronate-mediated AM depletion. These results further open the possibility of therapeutically utilizing LPMs as delivery vehicles to carry nanoparticle-encapsulated oligonucleotide modalities to potentially address inflammatory diseases, infectious diseases and even cancer.

Calcimycin mediates apoptosis in breast and cervical cancer cell lines by inducing intracellular calcium levels in a P2RX4-dependent manner

BACKGROUND

Calcimycin (A23187) is a polyether antibiotic and divalent cation ionophore, extracted from Streptomyces chartrecensis. With wide variety of antimicrobial activities, it also exhibits cytotoxicity of tumor cells. Calcimycin exhibit therapeutic potential against tumor cell growth; however, the molecular mechanism remains to be fully elucidated. Present study explores the mechanism of calcimycin-induced apoptosis cancer cell lines.

METHODS

Apoptotic induction in a dose-dependent manner were recorded with MTT assays, Phase contrast imaging, wound healing assay, fluorescence imaging by DAPI and AO/EB staining and FACS using cell line model. Mitochondrial potential was analyzed by TMRM assay as Ca2+ signaling is well known to be influenced and synchronized by mitochondria also.

RESULTS

Calcimycin induces apoptosis in dose dependent manner, also accompanied by increased intracellular calcium-level and expression of purinergic receptor-P2RX4, a ligand-gated ion channel.

CONCLUSION

Calcimycin tends to increase the intracellular calcium level, mRNA expression of ATP receptor P2RX4, and phosphorylation of p38. Blocking of either intracellular calcium by BAPTA-AM, P2RX4 expression by antagonist 5-BDBD, and phospho-p38 by SB203580, abrogated the apoptotic activity of calcimycin.

GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE

Taken together, these results show that calcimycin induces apoptosis in P2RX4 and ATP mediated intracellular Ca2+ and p38 MAPK mediated pathway in both the cancer cell lines. This study explored a new mode of action for calcimycin in cancer that could be potentially employed in future studies for cancer therapeutic research. This study disentangles that the calcimycin-induced apoptotic cell death is P2RX4 and ATP involved, intracellular Ca2+ and p38 MAPK mediated pathway.

Luteolin Inhibits Lung Cancer Cell Migration by Negatively Regulating TWIST1 and MMP2 Through Upregulation of miR-106a-5p

BACKGROUND

Luteolin, a common dietary flavonoid found in plants, has been shown to have anti-cancer properties. However, its exact mechanisms of action in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) are still not fully understood, particularly its role in regulating broader genomic networks and specific gene targets. In this study, we aimed to elucidate the role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in NSCLC treated with luteolin, using A549 cells as a model system.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

miRNA profiling was conducted on luteolin-treated A549 cells using Exiqon microarrays, with validation of selected miRNAs by qRT-PCR. Bioinformatic analysis identified the regulatory roles of miRNAs in biological processes and pathways following luteolin treatment. Computational algorithms were employed to identify potential target genes. A549 cells were transfected with miR-106a-5p mimic and inhibitor or their corresponding controls. The expression levels of 2 genes, twist basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor 1 (TWIST1) and matrix metallopeptidase 2 (MMP2), and cell migration were assessed.

RESULTS

miRNA profiling identified 341 miRNAs, with 18 exhibiting significantly altered expression (P < 0.05). Subsequent qRT-PCR analysis confirmed altered expression of 6 selected miRNAs. KEGG and GO analyses revealed significant alterations in pathways and biological processes crucial for tumor biology. TWIST1 and MMP2, which both contain conserved miR-106a-5p binding sites, exhibited an inverse correlation with the expression levels of miR-106a-5p. Dual-luciferase reporter assays confirmed TWIST1 and MMP2 as direct targets of miR-106a-5p. Luteolin treatment led to a reduction in A549 cell migration, and this reduction was further amplified by the overexpression of miR-106a-5p.

CONCLUSION

Luteolin inhibits A549 cell migration by modulating the miRNA landscape, shedding light on its mechanisms and laying the foundation for miRNA-based therapeutic approaches for NSCLC.

Epigallocatechin gallate inhibits ovarian cancer cell growth and induces cell apoptosis via activation of FOXO3A

Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a bioactive component in tea, displays broad anti-cancer effects. Our study was designed to evaluate the anti-cancer effects of EGCG on ovarian cancer and explored the underlying molecular mechanisms. To evaluate the in vitro inhibitory effects of EGCG against ovarian cancer, MTT assay, colony formation assay, apoptosis assay, and wound healing assay, were performed. Besides, the inhibitory effects of EGCG on tumor growth in the xenograft animal model were evaluated by measuring tumor volume and tumor weight. Moreover, Western blotting and qPCR were used to evaluate the levels of target genes and proteins. Treatment with EGCG inhibited cell migration and cell survival, and promoted cell apoptosis in A2780 and SKOV3 cells. Interestingly, treatment with EGCG inhibited the tumor growth in the xenograft animal model. The mechanistic study revealed that treatment with EGCG induced the activation of FOXO3A and suppressed the expression of c-Myc both in vitro and in vivo. Our findings demonstrate that EGCG suppress ovarian cancer cell growth, which may be due to its regulation on FOXO3A and c-Myc.

Sevoflurane attenuates proliferative and migratory activity of lung cancer cells via mediating the microRNA-100-3p/sterol O-Acyltransferase 1 axis

Recently, evidence has shown that microRNA-100-3p (miR-100-3p) has been revealed as a tumor suppressor in diverse human diseases, while its capability in lung cancer warrants further validation. In this work, we aimed to discuss the impact of sevoflurane on biological functions of lung cancer cells by modulating the miR-100-3p/sterol O-acyltransferase 1 (SOAT1) axis. Lung cancer cell lines (A549 and H460) were treated with various concentrations of sevoflurane. Cell viability, proliferation, migration, and invasion were evaluated using MTT, colony formation, wound healing, and transwell assays. Moreover, miR-100-3p and SOAT1 expressions were evaluated by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction in lung cancer cells. The target interaction between miR-100-3p and SOAT1 was predicted by bioinformatics analysis and verified by the dual-luciferase reporter gene assay. The findings of our work demonstrated that sevoflurane impeded the abilities on viability, proliferation, migration, and invasion of A549 and H460 cells. The expression of miR-100-3p was reduced, and SOAT1 expression was elevated in lung cancer cells. miR-100-3p targeted SOAT1. Besides, sevoflurane could lead to expressed improvement of miR-100-3p or limitation of SOAT1. Downregulation of miR-100-3p or upregulation of SOAT1 restored the suppression of sevoflurane on abilities of viability, proliferation, migration, and invasion in A549 and H460 cells. In the rescue experiment, downregulation of SOAT1 reversed the impacts of downregulation of miR-100-3p on sevoflurane on lung cancer cells. Collectively, our study provides evidence that sevoflurane restrained the proliferation and invasion in lung cancer cells by modulating the miR-100-3p/SOAT1 axis. This article provides a new idea for further study of the pathogenesis of lung cancer.

Zhuidu Formula suppresses the migratory and invasive properties of triple-negative breast cancer cells via dual signaling pathways of RhoA/ROCK and CDC42/MRCK

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Zhuidu Formula (ZDF) is composed of triptolide, cinobufagin and paclitaxel, which are the active ingredients of Tripterygium wilfordii Hook. F, dried toad skin and Taxus wallichiana var. chinensis (Pilg) Florin, respectively. Modern pharmacological studies show that triptolide, cinobufagin, and paclitaxel are well-known natural compounds that exert anti-tumor effects by interfering with DNA synthesis, inducing tumor cell apoptosis, and inhibiting the dynamic balance of the tubulin. However, the mechanism by which the three compounds inhibit triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) metastasis is unknown.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this investigation was to examine the inhibitory essences of ZDF on the metastasis of TNBC and elucidate its potential mechanism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Cell viability of triptolide (TPL), cinobufagin (CBF), and paclitaxel (PTX) on MDA-MB-231 cells was assessed employing a CCK-8 assay. The drug interactions of the three drugs on MDA-MB-231 cells were determined in vitro utilizing the Chou-Talalay method. MDA-MB-231 cells were identified for migration, invasion and adhesion in vitro through the implementation of the scratch assay, transwell assay and adhesion assay, respectively. The formation of cytoskeleton protein F-actin was detected by immunofluorescence assay. The expressions of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in the supernatant of the cells were determined by ELISA analysis. The Western blot and RT-qPCR were employed to explore the protein expressions associated with the dual signaling pathways of RhoA/ROCK and CDC42/MRCK. The anti-tumor efficacy of ZDF in vivo and its preliminary mechanism were investigated in the mouse 4T1 TNBC model.

RESULTS

The results demonstrated that ZDF could significantly reduce the viability of the MDA-MB-231 cell, and the combination index (CI) values of actual compatibility experimental points were all less than 1, demonstrating a favorable synergistic compatibility relationship. It was found that ZDF reduces RhoA/ROCK and CDC42/MRCK dual signaling pathways, which are responsible for MDA-MB-231cell migration, invasion, and adhesion. Additionally, there has been a significant reduction in the manifestation of cytoskeleton-related proteins. Furthermore, the expression levels of RhoA, CDC42, ROCK2, and MRCKβ mRNA and protein were down-regulated. ZDF significantly decreased the protein expressions of vimentin, cytokeratin-8, Arp2 and N-WASP, and inhibited actin polymerization and actomyosin contraction. Furthermore, MMP-2 and MMP-9 levels in the high-dose ZDF group were decreased by 30% and 26%, respectively. ZDF significantly reduced the tumor volume and protein expressions of ROCK2 and MRCKβ in tumor tissues without eliciting any perceptible alterations in the physical mass of the mice, and the reduction was more pronounced than that of the BDP5290 treated group.

CONCLUSION

The current investigation demonstrates that ZDF exhibits a proficient inhibitory impact on TNBC metastasis by regulating cytoskeletal proteins through the dual signaling pathways of RhoA/ROCK and CDC42/MRCK. Furthermore, the findings indicate that ZDF has significant anti-tumorigenic and anti-metastatic characteristics in breast cancer animal models.

PRMT5 triggers glucocorticoid-induced cell migration in triple-negative breast cancer

Triple-negative breast cancers (TNBCs) are the most aggressive breast cancers, and therapeutic options mainly rely on chemotherapy and immunotherapy. Although synthetic glucocorticoids (GCs) are given to alleviate the side effects of these treatments, GCs and their receptor, the glucocorticoid receptor (GR), were recently associated with detrimental effects, albeit the mechanisms involved remain elusive. Here, we identified the arginine methyltransferase PRMT5 as a master coregulator of GR, serving as a scaffold protein to recruit phospho-HP1γ and subsequently RNA polymerase II, independently of its methyltransferase activity. Moreover, the GR/PRMT5/HP1γ complex regulated the transcription of GC-target genes involved in cell motility and triggering cell migration of human TNBC cells in vitro and in a zebrafish model. Of note, we observed that GR/PRMT5 interaction was low in primary tumors but significantly increased in residual tumors treated with chemotherapy and GCs in neoadjuvant setting. These data suggest that the routine premedication prescription of GCs for early TNBC patients should be further assessed and that this complex could potentially be modulated to specifically target deleterious GR effects.

Platinum(IV) combo prodrugs containing cyclohexane-1R,2R-diamine, valproic acid, and perillic acid as a multiaction chemotherapeutic platform for colon cancer

The complex [PtCl2(cyclohexane-1R,2R-diamine)] has been combined in a Pt(IV) molecule with two different bioactive molecules (i.e., the histone deacetylase inhibitor 2-propylpentanoic acid or valproic acid, VPA, and the potential antimetastatic molecule 4-isopropenylcyclohexene-1-carboxylic acid or perillic acid, PA) in order to obtain a set of multiaction or multitarget antiproliferative agents. In addition to traditional thermal synthetic procedures, microwave-assisted heating was used to speed up their preparation. All Pt(IV) complexes showed antiproliferative activity on four human colon cancer cell lines (namely HCT116, HCT8, RKO and HT29) in the nanomolar range, considerably better than those of [PtCl2(cyclohexane-1R,2R-diamine)], VPA, PA, and the reference drug oxaliplatin. The synthesized complexes showed pro-apoptotic and pro-necrotic effects and the ability to induce cell cycle alterations. Moreover, the downregulation of histone deacetylase activity, leading to an increase in histone H3 and H4 levels, and the antimigratory activity, indicated by the reduction of the levels of matrix metalloproteinases MMP2 and MMP9, demonstrated the multiaction nature of the complexes, which showed biological properties similar to or better than those of VPA and PA, but at lower concentrations, probably due to the lipophilicity of the combo molecule that increases the intracellular concentration of the single components (i.e., [PtCl2(cyclohexane-1R,2R-diamine)], VPA and PA).

Mechanism of salidroside against coronary artery disease by network pharmacology analysis

BACKGROUND

Rosenroot (Rhodiola rosea) is a traditional Chinese herbal medicine. It has been used to treat patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). Salidroside is the main active constituent of rosenroot. This study was designed to explore the mechanism of salidroside in treating CAD and its role in angiogenesis in CAD systematically.

METHODS

In this study, potential targets related to salidroside and CAD were obtained from public databases. Gene Ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), Disease Ontology (DO) and CellMarker enrichment analyses were performed. The binding of salidroside to angiogenesis-related targets was assessed by PyMOL and Ligplot. Furthermore, the effects of salidroside on collateral circulation were evaluated by correlation analysis of these angiogenesis-related targets with the coronary flow index (CFI), and the influence of salidroside on human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) proliferation and migration was assessed.

RESULTS

Eighty-three targets intersected between targets of salidroside and CAD. GO and KEGG analyses indicated that salidroside mainly treated CAD through angiogenesis and anti-inflammatory action. There were 12 angiogenesis-related targets of salidroside in coronary heart disease, among which FGF1 (r = 0.237, P = 2.597E-3), KDR (r = 0.172, P = 3.007E-2) and HIF1A (r = -0.211, P = 7.437E-3) were correlated with the coronary flow index (CFI), and salidroside docked well with them. Finally, cell experiments confirmed that salidroside promoted the proliferation and migration of HUVECs.

CONCLUSIONS

This study revealed the potential molecular mechanism of salidroside on angiogenesis in CAD and provided new ideas for the clinical application of salidroside in the treatment of CAD.

Evaluation of the anticancer effect of telomerase inhibitor BIBR1532 in anaplastic thyroid cancer in terms of apoptosis, migration and cell cycle

Anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC) represents the type with the worst prognosis among thyroid cancers. In ATC with a highly invasive phenotype, selective targeting of TERT with BIBR1532 may be a goal-driven approach to preserving healthy tissues. In present study, it was aimed to investigate the effects of treatment of SW1736 cells with BIBR1532 on apoptosis, cell cycle progression, and migration. The apoptotic effect of BIBR1532 on SW1736 cells was examined using the Annexin V method, the cytostatic effect using cell cycle test, migration properties using wound healing assay. Gene expression differences were determined by real-time qRT-PCR and differences in protein level by ELISA test. BIBR1532-treated SW1736 cells had 3.1-fold increase in apoptosis compared to their untreated counterpart. There was 58.1% arrest in the G0/G1 phase and 27.6% arrest in the S phase of the cell cycle in untreated group, treatment with BIBR1532 increased cell population in G0/G1 phase to 80.9% and decreased in S phase to 7.1%. Treatment with the TERT inhibitor resulted in a 50.8% decrease in cell migration compared to the untreated group. After BIBR1532 treatment of SW1736 cells, upregulation of BAD, BAX, CASP8, CYCS, TNFSF10, CDKN2A genes, and downregulation of BCL2L11, XIAP, CCND2 genes were detected. BIBR1532 treatment resulted in an increase in BAX and p16 proteins, and a decrease in concentration of BCL-2 protein compared to untreated group. Targeting TERT with BIBR1532 as a mono drug or using of BIBR1532 at "priming stage" prior to chemotherapy treatment in ATC may present a novel and promising treatment strategy.

Abundant tannic acid modified gelatin/sodium alginate biocomposite hydrogels with high toughness, antifreezing, antioxidant and antibacterial properties

The acidity of high tannic acid (TA) content solution can destroy the structure of protein, such as gelatin (G). This causes a big challenge to introduce abundant TA into the G-based hydrogels. Here, the G-based hydrogel system with abundant TA as hydrogen bonds provider was constructed by a "protective film" strategy. The protective film around the composite hydrogel was first formed by the chelation of sodium alginate (SA) and Ca2+. Subsequently, abundant TA and Ca2+ were successively introduced into the hydrogel system by immersing method. This strategy effectively protected the structure of the designed hydrogel. After treatment with 0.3 w/v TA and 0.06 w/v Ca2+ solutions, the tensile modulus, elongation at break and toughness of G/SA hydrogel increased about 4-, 2-, and 6-fold, respectively. Besides, G/SA-TA/Ca2+ hydrogels exhibited good water retention, anti-freezing, antioxidant, antibacterial properties and low hemolysis ratio. Cell experiments showed that G/SA-TA/Ca2+ hydrogels possessed good biocompatibility and could promote cell migration. Therefore, G/SA-TA/Ca2+ hydrogels are expected to be used in the field of biomedical engineering. The strategy proposed in this work also provides a new idea for improving the properties of other protein-based hydrogels.

EF-24 inhibits TPA-induced cellular migration and MMP-9 expression through the p38 signaling pathway in cervical cancer cells

Diphenyl difluoroketone (EF-24), a synthetic curcumin analog, has enhanced bioavailability over curcumin. EF-24 acts more powerful bioactivity for anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer activity. However, the effects and mechanism of EF-24 on cervical cancer has not been fully investigated. Herein, this study evaluated the effects of EF-24 on TPA-induced cellular migration of cervical cancer. The results showed that EF-24 substantially reduced the cellular migration and cellular invasion of the HeLa and SiHa cells. Moreover, gelatin zymography, western blotting analyses and real-time PCR revealed that EF-24 suppressed Matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) activity, protein expression and mRNA levels. Mechanistically, EF-24 inhibited the phosphorylation of the p38 signaling pathway. In conclusion, EF-24 inhibited TPA-induced cellular migration and cellular invasion of cervical cancer cell lines through modulating MMP-9 expression via downregulating signaling p38 pathway and EF-24 may have potential to serve as a chemopreventive agent of cervical cancer.

Angelicin inhibits the growth and migration of triple-negative breast cancer cells

Angelicin is a furocoumarin found in Psoralea corylifolia L. fruit and the Chinese herb Angelica archangelica. It exerts antitumor activities, including apoptosis, antiproliferation and anti-metastasis activities, in several types of cancers. However, its effects on human triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) remain unclear. In this study, we evaluated the anticancer activity of angelicin in vitro in the TNBC cell line MDA-MB-231 and investigated the related molecular mechanisms. To determine the anticancer activity of angelicin, MTT assay and flow cytometric analysis were performed to measure the cytotoxicity, cell proliferation and cell cycle. Wound healing assay and trans well assay were used to analyze the migration and invasion of breast cancer cells. The effect of angelicin on the expression of proteins was analyzed by western blotting. The results revealed that angelicin (50, 100, 150µM) had no effect on cytotoxicity. However, angelicin (at 100 µM) could inhibit cell proliferation by reducing cyclin B1 and cdc2 and increasing p21 and p27 expression levels, thereby resulting in G2/M phase arrest. Additionally, angelicin at a concentration of 150 µM inhibited the migration and cell invasion of MDA-MB-231 cells, partially by down regulating MMP-2 protein levels. Together, these results suggest that angelicin may serve as an adjuvant chemotherapeutic agent for patients with TNBC.

COM33 suppresses carboplatin-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition via inhibition of Twist1 in ovarian cancer

Despite favorable responses to platinum-based chemotherapy in ovarian cancer (OC), chemoresistance is still a major cause of treatment failure. Hence, we develop a novel synthetic agent, COM33, to relieve the chemoresistance caused by carboplatin. The anti-cancerous effects of the combination of COM33 and carboplatin on OC are evaluated by cell viability, wound healing, and transwell invasion assays. A mechanistic investigation is carried out by using RNA-Seq analysis and then verified by western blot analysis and immunofluorescence microscopy. The safety and efficacy in vivo are evaluated using SKOV3 tumor-bearing nude mice. Results show that the co-administration of COM33 enhances the inhibitory effects of carboplatin on cancer cell viability, migration, and invasion in vitro and tumor growth in vivo. Furthermore, COM33 suppresses the carboplatin-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) by inhibiting the ERK signaling pathway. Additionally, we show that Twist1, the effector of the ERK signaling pathway, participates in carboplatin-induced EMT and is also inhibited by COM33. Our data show that the combination of carboplatin with COM33 is beneficial for chemotherapy against OC, which may be a potential novel anti-tumor strategy.

Modified Shenlingbaizhu Decoction represses the pluripotency of colorectal cancer stem cells by inhibiting TGF-β mediated EMT program

BACKGROUND

The Modified Shenlingbaizhu Decoction (MSD) utilizes various phytomedicines has been applied to treat colorectal cancer (CRC). Colorectal cancer stem cells (CSCs) have proven to be tightly associated with CRC progression and metastasis. The mechanism of MSD's inhibitory effect on CSCs has not been determined.

PURPOSE

To figure out how MSD inhibits the pluripotency of CSCs and impedes the EMT program.

METHODS

The ingredients of MSD extracts were characterized by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). BALB/c-nu mice were transplanted into EGFP labeled SW480 CRC cells and the tumor weight and volume were recorded before and after various doses of MSD treatment. The concentration of TGF-β1 was quantified with an Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. To delineate the logical relationship between EMT and CSCs regulated by MSD, TGF-β/Smad inhibitor and activator were adopted in tumor-bearing mice and diverse CRC cell lines. Cancer stem cell markers were analyzed by flow cytometry. In vitro analysis of cell motility and viability were done using CCK-8, wound healing, and invasion assay. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) and western blotting (WB) were used for detecting protein expression. The collected results were statistically analyzed with GraphPad Prism 8.0.

RESULTS

MSD treatment significantly reduced the size of colorectal cancer tumors and lowered the serum content of TGF-β1 in mice. Importantly, MSD markedly reduced the expression of pluripotent factors and depressed CD133⁺ stem cells in the tumor tissues. The TGF-β/Smad inhibitor neutralized the EMT signaling and lowered the pluripotency by dephosphorylation of SMAD2/3. Similarly, MSD attenuated the pluripotency by limiting TGF-β/Smad signaling-induced EMT in vivo. MSD inhibited colorectal cancer cell proliferation, migration, and invasion.

CONCLUSIONS

MSD inhibits the growth of colorectal cancer. It dampens the pluripotency of CSCs by repressing the TGF-β-induced EMT program.

Pentagalloylglucose suppresses the growth and migration of human nasopharyngeal cancer cells via the GSK3β/β-catenin pathway in vitro and in vivo

BACKGROUND

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a type of malignant squamous cell tumour originating from the nasopharynx epithelium. Pentagalloylglucose (PGG) is a natural polyphenolic compound that exerts anticancer effects in many types of tumours. However, the role and underlying mechanism of PGG in NPC cells have not been fully defined.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to investigate the anticancer activity of PGG as well as the potential mechanism in NPC cells.

METHODS

The effects of PGG on the proliferation, apoptosis and cell cycle distribution of CNE1 and CNE2 cells were assessed by MTT and flow cytometry assays. Cell migration was evaluated using wound healing and transwell assays. The expression of microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 beta (LC3B) was observed by immunofluorescence staining. Western blotting was used to explore the levels of related proteins and signalling pathway components. Furthermore, the effects of PGG on NPC cell growth were analysed in a xenograft mouse model in vivo using cisplatin as a positive control.

RESULTS

PGG dose-dependently inhibited the proliferation of CNE1 and CNE2 cells. PGG regulated the cell cycle by altering p53, cyclin D1, CDK2, and cyclin E1 protein levels. PGG induced apoptosis and autophagy in NPC cells and elevated the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio and the protein levels of LC3B. Moreover, PGG decreased NPC cell migration by increasing E-cadherin and decreasing N-cadherin, vimentin and CD44 protein levels. Mechanistically, PGG treatment downregulated p-mTOR and β-catenin expression but upregulated p-p38 MAPK and p-GSK3β expression. In addition, PGG significantly inhibited NPC cell tumour growth and lung metastasis in vivo.

CONCLUSION

PGG may suppress cell proliferation, induce apoptosis and autophagy, and decrease the metastatic capacity of NPC cells through the p38 MAPK/mTOR and Wnt/β-catenin pathways. The present study provides evidence for PGG as a potential therapy for NPC.

Ursolic acid inhibits Th17 cell differentiation via STAT3/RORγt pathway and suppresses Schwann cell-mediated Th17 cell migration by reducing CXCL9/10 expression

Th17 cells represent important immune cells. Ursolic acid (UA) can regulate immune cell activities. This study was aimed to explore the effects of UA on Th17 cell differentiation and Schwann cell(SCs)-mediated migration and the potential mechanism. Naïve CD4+ T cells were isolated from rat peripheral blood, induced for Th17 cell differentiation, and treated with UA. The proportion of Th17 cells was detected by flow cytometry assay. SCs were co-cultured with Th17 cells. Th17 cell migration was detected by Transwell assay. The molecule expression was determined by Western blot and qRT-PCR. UA inhibited the Th17 cell differentiation and suppressed the STAT3/RORγt pathway. STAT3 overexpression up-regulated p-STAT3 and RORγt expression and promoted Th17 cell differentiation under the UA treatment. In LPS- and IFN-γ-stimulated-SCs, UA suppressed the expression of chemokines CXCL9/10, but had no significant effect of CCL20 expression. The expression CXCL9/10 receptor CXCR3 was higher in Th17 cells than that in Treg cells, while the expression CCL20 receptor CCR6 was lower in Th17 cells than that in Treg cells. UA, anti-CXCR3, and anti-CCR6 treatment inhibited SCs-mediated Th17 cell migration, and anti-CXCR3 exerted stronger inhibitory effect than Anti-CCR6. UA inhibited Th17 cell differentiation through STAT3/RORγt pathway and suppressed Th17 cell migration through down-regulating CXCL9/10 expression in SCs.

Quercetin promotes cutaneous wound healing in mice through Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Oxytropis falcata Bunge is a legume distributed in Northwest China, which is mainly used to treat knife wounds and inflammation. Quercetin is a bioactive flavonoid in O. falcata and becomes a promising healing compound for its angiogenic and anti-inflammatory activities. However, the healing mechanism of quercetin in cutaneous wound remains elusive.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the healing effect of quercetin on cutaneous wound models in vivo and in vitro, and to reveal the Wnt/β-catenin pathway and Telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) involved mechanisms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The effects of quercetin on the proliferation and migration of 4 kinds of skin cells were determined by CCK-8 and scratch assay. The wound-healing capacity of quercetin was evaluated in cutaneous wound model of C57BL/6 mice and the wound healing degree was observed by histological staining. The expressions of inflammatory factors, growth factors and the related proteins were detected via Western blot and RT-qPCR analyses. The molecular docking was adopted to evaluate the binding ability of quercetin and TERT.

RESULTS

Quercetin could promote both proliferation and migration of fibroblasts, and enhance cutaneous wound healing capacity in mice. Compared to the control group, the wound healing rates in low (1.5 mg/mL), medium (3.0 mg/mL) and high dose (6.0 mg/mL) quercetin groups reached 94.67%, 97.31% and 98.42%, respectively. Moreover, the dermal structure in quercetin treated mice restored normal and the content of collagen fiber became abundant after administration. The levels of inflammatory factors, including tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β and interleukin-6 were significantly reduced after quercetin administration. Among which, the level of IL-1β in cutaneous wound was 0.007 times higher than that of the control group when treated with quercetin of high dose (6.0 mg/mL). The improved level of GSH in quercetin treated cutaneous wounds also indicated its higher antioxidant ability. In addition, dose-dependent positive associations were found in the expression levels of vascular endothelial growth factor, fibroblast growth factor and alpha smooth muscle actin in quercetin treated cutaneous wounds. The significantly upregulated protein levels of Wnt and β-catenin further indicated the important role of quercetin in promoting wound healing in mice. According to molecular docking analysis, the formed hydrogen bonds between quercetin and Ala195, Gln308, Asn369 and Lys372 residues of TERT also indicated the indispensable role of TERT in improving wound healing capacity.

CONCLUSION

Quercetin effectively promoted cutaneous wound healing by enhancing the proliferation and migration of fibroblasts, as well as inhibiting inflammation and increasing the expression of growth factors in mice via Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway and TERT. It provides a basis for a more thorough understanding of mechanism of action of O. falcata Bunge in the treatment of knife wounds and burns.

Synergistic effect of Aloe vera flower and Aloe gel on cutaneous wound healing targeting MFAP4 and its associated signaling pathway: In-vitro study

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Aloe vera (L.) Burm. f. (Liliaceae family) is a well-known traditional medicinal plant, that has been used to treat a variety of illnesses, for decades ranging from cancer to skin disorders including wounds. It has been included in the traditional and herbal healthcare systems of many cultures around the world, as well as the pharmacopeia of different countries. Several in vitro and in vivo studies have also confirmed its potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing activities, etc. in the consistency of its historical and traditional uses. However, most studies to date are based on the A. vera gel and latex including its wound-healing effects. Very few studies have been focused on its flower, and rarely with its effects on cutaneous wound healing and its molecular mechanism.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to report on the synergistic effect of the A. vera flower (AVF) and Aloe gel (PAG) on cutaneous wound-healing, as well as revealing its molecular mechanism targeting microfibril-associated glycoprotein 4 (MFAP4) and its associated signaling pathway.

METHODS

To investigate the synergistic effect of A. vera flower and Aloe gel in cutaneous wound healing, cell viability, and cell migration, as well proliferation assay was performed. This was followed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analyses in wounded conditions to check the effects of this mixture on protein and mRNA levels in normal human dermal fibroblast (NHDF) cells. Moreover, small interfering RNA (siRNA) -mediated knockdown of MFAP4 in NHDF cells was performed followed by migration assay and cell cycle analysis, to confirm its role in cutaneous wound healing. Additionally, HaCaT cells were included in this study to evaluate its migratory and anti-inflammatory effects.

RESULTS

Based on our obtained results, the PAG and AVF mixture synergistically induced the proliferation, migration, and especially ECM formation of NHDF cells by enhancing the expression of MFAP4. Other extracellular components associated with MFAP4 signaling pathway, such as fibrillin, collagen, elastin, TGF β, and α-SMA, also increased at both the protein and mRNA levels. Subsequently, this mixture initiated the phosphorylation of the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and AKT signaling pathways, and the S-phase of the cell cycle was also slightly modified. Also, the mixture induced the migration of HaCaT cells along with the suppression of inflammatory cytokines. Moreover, the siRNA-mediated knockdown highlighted the crucial role of MFAP4 in cutaneous wound healing in NHDF cells.

CONCLUSION

This study showed that the mixture of PAG and AVF has significant wound healing effects targeting MFAP4 and its associated signaling pathway. Additionally, MFAP4 was recognized as a new potential biomarker of wound healing, which can be confirmed by further in vivo studies.

The analgesic properties of Yu-Xue-Bi tablets in the inflammatory pain mice: By the inhibition of CCL3-mediated macrophage transmigration into the spinal cord

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Until now, inflammatory pain, especially ones with central sensitization in the spinal cord, is far from effectively treated. Yu-Xue-Bi Tablets (YXB) is a patented medicine, which has been widely applied for inflammatory pain. However, its therapeutic characteristics and mechanism remain unknown.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study is designed to evaluate the analgesic characteristics and explore the underlying mechanism of YXB in the inflammatory pain model induced by Complete Freund's Adjuvant (CFA).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The analgesic effects were measured by Von Frey test. The expression of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) was quantified by immunofluorescence. The expression of immune factors was analyzed via Luminex assay. The further quantifications of C-C Motif chemokine ligand 3 (CCL3) were verified by Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The transmigration of macrophage and activation of microglia were evaluated by immunofluorescence. Spinal injections of purified CCL3, CCR1 antagonist (J113863) and CCR5 antagonist (Maraviroc) were used to clarify roles of CCL3 assumed in the pharmacological mechanism of YXB.

RESULTS

In CFA mice, YXB ameliorated the mechanical allodynia in dose and time dependent way, suppressed the central sensitization in dose dependent way. In the L5 spinal cord, YXB downregulated the expression of macrophage M1 pro-inflammatory factors TNFRI and CCL3, inhibited the transmigration of circulating macrophage and the activation of microglia. Purified CCL3 led to the transmigration of macrophage, activation of microglia, central sensitization, and mechanical allodynia in the Sham mice. Inhibitors of CCR1 and CCR5 attenuated above symptoms in CFA mice. Purified CCL3 blocked YXB mediated down regulation of CCL3, inhibition of macrophage transmigration, but not activation of microglia.

CONCLUSION

YXB exerts the analgesic effects by inhibiting CCL3-mediated peripheral macrophage transmigrate into spinal cord. This study provided a novel approach for inflammatory pain treatment and new insight into the pharmacological action of YXB.

Quercus acutissima Carruth. root extract triggers apoptosis, autophagy and inhibits cell viability in breast cancer cells

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The bark of Quercus acutissima Carruth. (QA) has long been used by Chinese people to treat noncancerous growths and cancerous ailments. It was traditionally used by Chinese folk to inhibit tumor proliferation in cancerous treatment, but the specific mechanism remain to be elucidated.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study investigated the anticancer activities of QA root extract and its regulatory pathways in two human breast cancer cell lines (MCF-7 and SUM159).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Dried QA root barks were extracted by ethanol and used to treat human breast cancer MCF-7 and SUM159 cells with varying concentrations. The CCK-8 assay, Hoechst 33342 staining assay and wound healing assay were used to detect the cell proliferation, apoptotic cell morphology, and cell migration in each group, respectively. Caspase 3 activity assay kit was used to determine caspase 3 activity. Western blot was used to measure proteins expression level in apoptosis and autophagy pathways (Bcl-W, caspase 3, Beclin1, LC3 and Atg5). LC-MS was performed to determine the chemical components in QA root extract.

RESULTS

CCK-8 assay showed that QA root extract significantly inhibited cell viability and proliferation in breast cancer cells by a concentration-dependent manner. Cell wound healing assay indicated that it had high suppression ability on cell migration both in MCF-7 and SUM159 cells. QA root extract treatment induced the morphological and nuclear structural changes in breast cancer cells including rounded appearance and shrunken nucleus with several nuclear body fragments. Western blot indicated that QA root extract induced mitochondria-mediated apoptosis by up-regulating caspase 3 and down-regulating Bcl-W. Moreover, QA root extract up-regulated Beclin1 and Atg5, and activated LC3 in two human breast cancer cell lines. LC-MS results showed that QA root extract contains high content of bioactive compounds like coumarins and derivatives, prenol lipids, flavonoids and tannins.

CONCLUSIONS

QA root extract inhibited cell proliferation and migration in MCF-7 and SUM159 cells, and it also induced cell morphology changes and regulated mitochondria-mediated apoptotic cell death and autophagic cell death.

Novel Inhibitor for Downstream Targeting of Transforming Growth Factor-β Signaling to Suppress Epithelial to Mesenchymal Transition and Cell Migration

Cancer metastasis accounts for most of the mortality associated with solid tumors. However, antimetastatic drugs are not available on the market. One of the important biological events leading to metastasis is the epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) induced by cytokines, namely transforming growth-factor-β (TGF-β). Although several classes of inhibitors targeting TGF-β and its receptor have been developed, they have shown profound clinical side effects. We focused on our synthetic compound, HPH-15, which has shown anti-fibrotic activity via the blockade of the TGF-β Smad-dependent signaling. In this study, 10 μM of HPH-15 was found to exhibit anti-cell migration and anti-EMT activities in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells. Although higher concentrations are required, the anti-EMT activity of HPH-15 has also been observed in 3D-cultured NSCLC cells. A mechanistic study showed that HPH-15 inhibits downstream TGF-β signaling. This downstream inhibition blocks the expression of cytokines such as TGF-β, leading to the next cycle of Smad-dependent and -independent signaling. HPH-15 has AMPK-activation activity, but a relationship between AMPK activation and anti-EMT/cell migration was not observed. Taken together, HPH-15 may lead to the development of antimetastatic drugs with a new mechanism of action.

Angelol-A exerts anti-metastatic and anti-angiogenic effects on human cervical carcinoma cells by modulating the phosphorylated-ERK/miR-29a-3p that targets the MMP2/VEGFA axis

AIMS

Angelol-A (Ang-A), a kind of coumarins, is isolated from the roots of Angelica pubescens f. biserrata. However, AA exerts antitumor effects and molecular mechanism on cervical cancer cells is unknown.

MAIN METHODS

Cell viability was determined using the MTT assay, and the cell cycle phase was assessed by PI staining with flow cytometry. Ang-A-treated cells with/without Antago-miR-29a-3p (miR-29a-3p inhibitor) or U0126 (MEK inhibitor) were assessed for the expression of miR-29a-3p, in vitro migration/invasion, and angiogenesis using qRT-PCR, a chemotaxis assay, and tube formation assay, respectively. The expression of mitogen-activated protein kinases/MMP2/MMP9/VEGFA was determined by western blot analysis with applicable antibodies.

KEY FINDINGS

Ang-A significantly inhibited MMP2 and VEGFA expression, cell migration, and invasive motility in human cervical cancer cells. Conditioned medium inhibited tube formation in HUVECs. Ang-A principally inhibited invasive motility and angiogenesis by upregulating the expression of miR-29a-3p that targets the VEGFA-3' UTR. The role of miR-29a-3p was confirmed using Antago-miR-29a-3p, which reversed the Ang-A-inhibited expression of MMP2 and VEGFA, invasive motility, and angiogenesis in human cervical cancer cells. The ERK pathway was implicated in mediating the metastatic and angiogenic action of Ang-A. Combined treatment with Ang-A treated and U0126 exerted a synergistic inhibitory effect on the expression of MMP2 and VEGFA and the metastatic and angiogenic properties of human cervical cancer cells.

SIGNIFICANCE

These findings are the first to indicate that in human cervical cancer cells, Ang-A exerts anti-metastatic and anti-angiogenic effects via targeting the miR-29a-3p/MMP2/VEGFA axis, mediated through the ERK pathway.

Docetaxel and 5-FU enhanced the inhibitory effects of apatinib and ramucirumab on growth and migration of gastric cancer

BACKGROUND

Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most common malignant tumors in the world. The clinical benefit of anti-angiogenic strategy as a single drug is limited. Some studies showed that the combination of anti-angiogenic therapy and chemotherapy exhibited synergistic effect and reduced the side effects of chemotherapy drugs. We investigated the combined effects of these two types of drugs in gastric cancer cells in vitro and in vivo.

METHODS

cell viability, migration, invasion, and apoptosis were evaluated by CCK-8, wound-healing, transwell, and Annexin V-FITC/PI assay, respectively. In vivo anti-cancer efficacy was tested for the cell proliferation and metastasis in cell line derived tumor xenograft (CDX) model and patient derived tumor xenografted (PDX) model based on Tg (fli-1: EGFP) zebrafish embryos; RESULTS: In the cell experiments, the combination of the two types of drugs could inhibit the proliferation and metastasis of gastric cancer cells and promote apoptosis through VEGFR-2/AKT/ERK1/2 signal. In the zebrafish CDX (zCDX) model and zebrafish PDX (zPDX) model, the combination of the two treatment also showed a synergistic effect in inhibiting gastric cancer cell metastasis and cell proliferation.

CONCLUSIONS

Apatinib/ramucirumab targeted therapy combined with docetaxel or 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) may serve as an effective treatment strategy for patients with advanced gastric cancer.

Brusatol inhibits the growth of renal cell carcinoma by regulating the PTEN/PI3K/AKT pathway

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Brucea javanica (L.) Merr. is a medicinal herb used in China for the prevention and treatment of diseases such as cancer and malaria. Brusatol was isolated from the seeds of Brucea javanica (L.) Merr, brusatol has a wide range of pharmacological effects, including anti-inflammation and anti-cancer effects.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Renal cell carcinoma is one of the most common urinary system tumours and seriously threatens the lives of patients. We aimed to study the mechanism by which brusatol regulates the growth of renal cancer cells through the PTEN/PI3K/AKT signalling pathway.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We chose the A498, ACHN, and OSRC-2 cell lines as experimental models. After intervention with brusatol, CCK-8 experiments and plate cloning experiments were used to detect the cell proliferation ability; flow cytometry was used to detect the cell apoptosis rate; scratch and transwell invasion assays were used to detect the cell migration and invasion ability; qRT-PCR and Western blotting was used to detect PTEN, p-PI3K/PI3K, p-AKT/AKT, Bax, Bcl2, E-cadherin, N-cadherin, and vimentin relative expression. Then, we knocked down the PTEN gene in the three cell lines and again tested the proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and invasion capabilities of each group of cells.

RESULTS

Brusatol significantly inhibited the proliferation, migration and invasion and increased the rate of apoptosis of the A498, ACHN, and OSRC-2 cell lines, and brusatol significantly increased the expression of PTEN mRNA and protein, and inhibited the expression of p-PI3K and p-AKT. Moreover, knockdown of PTEN significantly reduced the inhibitory effect of brusatol on the growth of renal cancer cells.

CONCLUSION

Our research results show that brusatol has an effective inhibitory effect on the growth of A498, ACHN, and OSRC-2 renal cancer cell lines, and this effect is likely to be produced by regulating the PTEN/PI3K/AKT signalling pathway.

In Vitro Effects of Papaverine on Cell Migration and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor in Cancer Cell Lines

Papaverine (PPV) is a benzylisoquinoline alkaloid isolated from Papaver somniferum that exerts antiproliferative activity. However, several questions remain regarding the biochemical pathways affected by PPV in tumourigenic cells. In this study, the influence of PPV on cell migration (light microscopy), expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) B, VEGF R1, VEGF R2, and phosphorylated focal adhesion kinase (pFAK) were investigated using spectrophotometry in MDA-MB-231-, A549- and DU145 cell lines. The migration assay revealed that, after 48 h, PPV (100 µM) reduced cell migration to 81%, 91%, and 71% in MDA-MB-231-, A549-, and DU145 cells, respectively. VEGF B expression was reduced to 0.79-, 0.71-, and 0.73-fold after 48 h of exposure to PPV in MDA-MB-231-, A549- and DU145 cells, while PPV exposure of 48 h increased VEGF R1 expression in MDA-MB-231- and DU145 cells to 1.38 and 1.46. A fold decrease in VEGF R1 expression was observed in A549 cells to 0.90 after exposure to 150 µM. No statistically significant effects were observed on VEGF R2- and FAK expression after exposure to PPV. This study contributes to the understanding of the effects of a phytomedicinal alkaloid compound in cancer cells and may provide novel approaches to the application of non-addictive alkaloids.

Antifibrotic effect of brown algae-derived fucoidans on osteoarthritic fibroblast-like synoviocytes

Synovial fibrosis is a pathological process which contributes to joint pain and stiffness in several musculoskeletal disorders. Fucoidans, sulfated polysaccharides found in brown algae, have recently emerged as promising therapeutic agents. Despite the increasing amount of evidence suggesting the protective role of fucoidans in different experimental approaches of human fibrotic disorders, the effect of these sulfated polysaccharides on synovial fibrosis has not been investigated yet. By an in vitro experimental approach in fibroblast-like synoviocytes, we detected that fucoidans inhibit their differentiation into myofibroblasts with tumor cell-like characteristics and restore apoptosis. Composition and structure of fucoidan appear to be critical for the detected activity. Furthermore, protective effects of these sulfated polysaccharides are mediated by upregulation of nitric oxide production and modulation of TGF-β/smad pathway. Altogether, our results support the use of fucoidans as therapeutic compounds in the treatment of the fibrotic processes involved in rheumatic pathologies.

The mechanism of FZXJJZ decoction suppresses colorectal liver metastasis via the VDR/TGF-β/Snail1 signaling pathways based on network pharmacology-TCGA data-transcriptomics analysis

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Fuzheng Xiaojijinzhan (FZXJJZF) decoction is an effective prescription for treating colorectal cancer liver metastasis (LMCRC).

AIM OF THE STUDY

To elucidate the pharmacological mechanism of the FZXJJZF decoction therapy on LMCRC.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Firstly, a network pharmacological approach was used to characterize the underlying targets of FZXJJZF on LMCRC. Secondly, LMCRC-related genes are obtained from the public database TCGA, and those genes are further screened and clustered through Mfuzz, an R package tool. Then, targets of FZXJJZF predicted by network pharmacology were overlapped with LMCRC related genes screened by Mfuzz. Meanwhile, FZJZXJF intervened in LMCRC model,epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and migration and invasion of HCT-116 cells. Thirdly, the transcriptomics data of FZJZXJF inhibited HCT-116 cells of EMT cells were overlapped with EMT database data to narrow the possible range of targets. Based on this, the potential targets and signal pathways of FZJZXJF were speculated by combining the transcriptomics data with the targets from network pharmacology-TCGA. Finally, the anti-cancer mechanism of FZXJJZF on LMCRC was verified in vitro by Real-Time PCR and Western Blot in vitro.

RESULTS

By network pharmacological analysis, 282 ingredients and 429 potential targets of FZXJJZF were predicted. The 9268 LMCRC-related genes in the TCGA database were classified into 10 clusters by the Mfuzz. The two clustering genes with the most similar clustering trends were overlapped with 429 potential targets, and 32 genes were found, such as CD34, TRPV3, PGR, VDR, etc. In vivo experiments, FZJZXJF inhibited the tumor size in LMCRC models, and the EMT, migration, and invasion of HCT-116 also be inhibited. Intersecting transcriptomics dates with 32 target genes, it is speculated that the VDR-TGF-β signaling pathway may be an effective mechanism of FZXJJZF. Additionally, it is shown that FZXJJZF up-regulated the expression levels of VDR and E-cadherin and down-regulated the expression levels of TGF-β and Snail1 in vitro. These results confirmed that FZXJJZF plays an effective role in LMCRC mainly by inhibiting EMT phenotype via the VDR-TGF-β signaling pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

Collectively, this study reveals the anti-LMCRC effect of FZXJJZF and its potential therapeutic mechanism from the perspective of potential targets and potential pathways.

Cucurbitacin B controls M2 macrophage polarization to suppresses metastasis via targeting JAK-2/STAT3 signalling pathway in colorectal cancer

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Cucurbitacin B (CuB), extracted from muskmelon pedicel, is a widely available triterpenoid molecule that exerts influence on various biological activities. Modern pharmacological studies have found that cucurbitacin B has many kinds of pharmacological anti-tumor and anti-metastasis functions.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To explore the mechanism of anti-tumor and anti-metastasis effect of cucurbitacin B.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The effect of cucurbitacin B on the growth of HCT116 and CT-26 was detected by CCK8; apoptosis was determined by flow cytometry and colony formation; the expression of apoptosis-related protein Bax, Bcl-2 and Cleaved-caspase-3 were examined by western Blot. To explore the underlying mechanism of cucurbitacin B against tumor, the Western blot, Immunofluorescence staining, Microscale Thermophoresis assays were used. Multiple molecular biology experiments were applied to validate the effect of polarization of cucurbitacin B-induced macrophages. The supernatant of Cucurbitacin B-induced macrophages and colon cells were co-cultured in vitro, and then transwell and wound healing assay were employed to the related phenotypes. C57BL/6 and BALB/c murine colon cancer model were also used to study the drug effects in vivo.

RESULTS

Cucurbitacin B distinctly induced the apoptosis of CRC cells. It was observed that cucurbitacin B not only inhibited the phosphorylation of JAK2 and STAT3, but also the translocation from the cytosol to the nucleus. Meanwhile, we observed that cucurbitacin B is bound to STAT3. Further experimentation demonstrated that cucurbitacin B reduced the polarization of M2 macrophage by down-regulating JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway. Cucurbitacin B-induced M2-like macrophages were found to diminish the migration of CRC cells. In vitro study suggested that cucurbitacin inhibited the CRC cells proliferation via JAK2/STAT3 and suppressed the cell migration by suppressing M2-like macrophages polarization. Consistent with in vitro results, the cucurbitacin B therapy significantly inhibited tumor growth and metastasis in mice. Moreover, in vivo the treatment with cucurbitacin B enhanced anti-tumor immunity by regulating M2-like macrophages and promoted the expression of CD4 and CD8 in tumor microenvironment.

CONCLUSION

Our results proved that cucurbitacin B might be a potential candidate agent for adjuvant therapy in the process of CRC growth and metastasis.

Ophiopogonin‑B targets PTP1B to inhibit the malignant progression of hepatocellular carcinoma by regulating the PI3K/AKT and AMPK signaling pathways

Ophiopogonin‑B (OP‑B) is a bioactive component from the root of Ophiopogon japonicus, which can exert anticancer effects on multiple malignant tumors. The present study aimed to uncover the effects of OP‑B on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and the underlying mechanisms. An HCC‑xenografted mouse model was established and subsequently treated with OP‑B (15 and 75 mg/kg) to observe the effects of OP‑B on HCC progression and protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) expression in vivo. The HCC cell line MHCC97‑H was transfected with either PTP1B overexpression (Ov)‑PTP1B or empty vector control, and then exposed to different concentrations of OP‑B. Subsequently, PTP1B expression, cell viability, proliferation, apoptosis, migration, invasion and angiogenesis were evaluated by western blotting, reverse transcription‑quantitative PCR, Cell Counting Kit‑8, colony formation, TUNEL staining, wound healing, Transwell and tube formation assays. The expression of phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase (PI3K)/AKT and adenosine 5'‑monophosphate‑activated protein kinase (AMPK) was also assessed by western blot assay. The results showed that OP‑B inhibited tumor growth and the expression of Ki67, CD31, VEGFA and PTP1B in HCC xenograft model. The expression of PTP1B in HCC cells was also inhibited by OP‑B in a concentration‑dependent manner. Results from the in vitro studies revealed that OP‑B suppressed cell proliferation, migration, invasion and angiogenesis, and promoted apoptosis of HCC cells. However, PTP1B overexpression reversed the effect of OP‑B on HCC cells. PI3K/AKT was inactivated and AMPK was activated by OP‑B exposure in HCC cells, and PTP1B overexpression blocked these effects. In conclusion, OP‑B effectively inhibited the progression of HCC both in vivo and in vitro. These effects may depend on downregulating PTP1B expression, thereby inactivating the PI3K/AKT pathway and activating the AMPK pathway.

Molecular mechanism of atractylon in the invasion and migration of hepatic cancer cells based on high‑throughput sequencing

The aim of the present study was to investigate the molecular mechanisms of atractylon in the inhibition of invasion and migration of hepatic cancer cells. High‑throughput sequencing was used to compare the expression of long non‑coding (lnc)RNAs between hepatic carcinoma and healthy controls. A competing endogenous RNA network was constructed. The top significantly differentially expressed lncRNAs were screened and verified by reverse transcription‑quantitative PCR in vitro and in vivo. Small interfering (si)RNA against thymopoietin‑antisense 1 (TMPO‑AS1) or coiled‑coil domain‑containing 183‑antisense 1 (CCDC183‑AS1) overexpression (oe) vectors were transfected into cells following atractylon treatment. Wound healing and Matrigel assays were used to determine the effects of migration and invasion, respectively. Western blot analysis was used to detect the expression levels of invasion‑ and migration‑related proteins, including N‑cadherin, E‑cadherin and MMP‑2. Flow cytometry analysis was used to detect apoptosis. Based on transcriptome sequencing and analysis, the top seven upregulated [(FAM201A, RP11‑640M9.2, AL589743.1, TMEM51‑AS1, clathrin heavy chain‑like 1 (CLTCL1), TMPO‑AS1 and LINC00652] and top six downregulated lncRNAs (RP11‑465B22.5, CCDC183‑AS1, TCONS_00072529, RP11‑401F2.3, RP11‑290F20.1 and TCONS_00070568) were identified. Only TMPO‑AS1 and CCDC183‑AS1 were differently regulated by atractylon in vivo. The proliferative ability of HepG2 liver cancer cells decreased, whereas the apoptotic rate improved after atractylon treatment. Notably, the invasive and migratory ability of HepG2 cells significantly declined. In addition, siTMPO‑AS1 and oeCCDC183‑AS1 reduced the effect of atractylon in vitro. Atractylon was demonstrated to regulate the expression of TMPO‑AS1 and CCDC183‑AS1 and inhibited the invasion and migration of liver cancer cells. Thus, TMPO‑AS1 and CCDC183‑AS1 may be potential targets for diagnosis and treatment of hepatic carcinoma.

Methylation‑associated inactivation of JPH3 and its effect on prognosis and cell biological function in HCC

In recent years, researchers have found that epigenetics plays an important role in the occurrence and development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). DNA methylation is involved in the proliferation and metastasis of HCC. However, the junctophilin 3 (JPH3) level and the potential regulatory mechanism of its DNA methylation in HCC remain uncertain. In the present study, 73 HCC samples were enrolled to analyze the expression of JPH3. Reverse‑transcription quantitative PCR, western blotting and immunohistochemistry were used to detect the expression of JPH3 in HCC. Kaplan‑Meier method and Cox regression analysis were applied to evaluate the prognostic impact of JPH3 on HCC patients. DNA methylation‑specific PCR and bisulfite Sanger sequencing were used to detect the degree of DNA methylation of JPH3 in HCC. The demethylation drug 5‑Aza‑2'‑deoxycytidine (5‑Aza) was used to reduce the DNA methylation of JPH3. The role of JPH3 in the malignant biological behavior of HCC by promoting epithelial‑mesenchymal transition (EMT) was confirmed by functional cell experiments. The results showed that JPH3 exhibited low levels in HCC tissues and cell lines. HCC patients with low expression of JPH3 had poor survival outcomes. JPH3 had higher DNA methylation levels in HCC tissues and cell lines. When the demethylation drug 5‑Aza was used to reduce the degree of methylation of JPH3, its protein expression level was significantly increased and it significantly inhibited the malignant biological behavior of HCC cells. Additionally, effective increase in the expression of JPH3 through gene regulation technology also inhibited the proliferation, invasion and migration of HCC cells. After altering the DNA methylation level of JPH3, the EMT of HCC cells was also affected. Therefore, our study demonstrated the inactivation of JPH3 by promoter methylation and its function as a tumor suppressor in HCC. JPH3 may serve as a biomarker for early diagnosis and as a potential therapeutic target for HCC.

Amorphophalli Rhizoma inhibits breast cancer growth, proliferation, migration, and invasion via the PI3K/AKT pathway

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Amorphophalli Rhizoma (APR) is widely used as an adjuvant treatment for advanced and metastatic triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), but its effects, potential active ingredients, and mechanism of action on estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) and human epidermal growth factor receptor-positive (HER2+) breast cancer cells were not reported.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The present study investigated the effects and mechanism of APR on ER+ and HER2+ breast cancer cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Rotary evaporation was used to prepare different extracts of APR. Cell activity was assessed using the cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) method. Wound healing assays were used to assess cell migration, and a cell invasion assay was performed using a Transwell chamber with Matrigel matrix. A xenograft model was used to analyze the inhibitory effects of APR on tumor growth. Bioinformatics analyses were used to explore the potential mechanism of APR in breast cancer. RT-qPCR and Western blotting were performed to reveal the molecular mechanism.

RESULTS

The ethyl acetate extract of APR showed the strongest tumor inhibitory effect on ER+ and HER2+ breast cancer cells compared to petroleum ether or N-butanol extracts. APR inhibited ER+ and HER2+ breast cancer cell growth, proliferation, migration, and invasion via the phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase (PI3K)/AKT pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

APR had a significant inhibitory effect on ER+ and HER2+ breast cancer cells via the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Therefore, APR may be useful for preventing ER+ and HER2+ breast tumor growth, proliferation, migration, and invasion.

Investigations on the Wound Healing Potential of Tilapia Piscidin (TP)2-5 and TP2-6

Wound healing is a highly orchestrated process involving many cell types, such as keratinocytes, fibroblasts and endothelial cells. This study aimed to evaluate the potential application of synthetic peptides derived from tilapia piscidin (TP)2, TP2-5 and TP2-6 in skin wound healing. The treatment of HaCaT keratinocytes with TP2-5 and TP2-6 did not cause cytotoxicity, but did enhance cell proliferation and migration, which could be attributed to the activation of epidermal growth factor receptor signaling. In CCD-966SK fibroblasts, although TP2-5 (31.25 μg/mL) and TP2-6 (125 μg/mL) showed cytotoxic effects, we observed the significant promotion of cell proliferation and migration at low concentrations. In addition, collagen I, collagen III, and keratinocyte growth factor were upregulated by the peptides. We further found that TP2-5 and TP2-6 showed pro-angiogenic properties, including the enhancement of human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) migration and the promotion of neovascularization. In a murine model, wounds treated topically with TP2-5 and TP2-6 were reduced by day 2 post-injury and healed significantly faster than untreated wounds. Taken together, these findings demonstrate that both TP2-5 and TP2-6 have multifaceted effects when used as topical agents for accelerating wound healing.

Midazolam Suppresses Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cell Metastasis and Enhances Apoptosis by Elevating miR-217

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a significant cause of human death in the world. Recently, it is found that midazolam can modulate miRs to participate in HCC progression. This research project was designed to elucidate the impacts of midazolam and miR-217 on HCC cell metastasis and apoptosis.

Methods

Human HCC cell strains (Hep3B and SK-HEP-1) were selected and intervened by midazolam at different concentrations in our research. miR-217-inhibitor intervened in the two HCC cell strains to observe the alterations of cell migration, invasiveness, and apoptosis. The miR-217 level in HCC cells was identified by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR).

Results

As midazolam concentration was elevated, Hep3B and SK-HEP-1 viabilities were more obviously suppressed. The 10 μg/mL concentration was selected for analysis since Hep3B and SK-HEP-1 had an IC50 of 10.57 μg/mL and 9.35 μg/m, respectively. The qRT-PCR results showed the decreased of miR-217 in HCC cells, which was enhanced notably by midazolam intervention. Compared with the blank group, the invasiveness and migration (Transwell assay) of miR-217-inhibitor-transfected HCC cells were distinctly enhanced and the apoptosis rate (flow cytometry) was noticeably reduced.

Conclusion

Midazolam can upregulate miR-217 in HCC cells, thus inhibiting HCC cell metastasis and apoptosis.

In Vitro and In Vivo Dendritic Cell Immune Stimulation Effect of Low Molecular Weight Fucoidan from New Zealand Undaria pinnatifida

Low molecular weight fucoidan (LMWF) has been reported to have immunomodulation effects through the increase of the activation and function of macrophages. In this study, the regulating effect of LMWF from Undaria pinnatifida grown in New Zealand on dendritic cells (DCs) was investigated. We discovered that LMWF could stimulate DCs' maturation and migration, as well as CD4+ and CD8+ T cells' proliferation in vitro. We proved that this immune promoting activity is activated through TLR4 and its downstream MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways. Further in vivo (mouse model) investigation showed that LMWF has a strong immunological boosting effect, such as facilitating the proliferation of immune cells and increasing the index of immune organs. These findings suggest that LMWF has a positive immunomodulatory effect and is a promising candidate to supplement cancer immunotherapy.

Anticancer effects of Pimaric acid is mediated via endoplasmic reticulum stress, caspase-dependent apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, and inhibition of cell migration in human ovarian cancer cells

Pimaric acid is a naturally occurring resin and has been found to perform many pharmacological activities including, anticancer activity. However, the role of Pimaric acid in ovarian cancer is still not known. This investigation aimed to evaluate the anticancer effects of Pimaric acid and its molecular mechanism in human ovarian cancer cells. MTT assay was used to examine cell viability. Cell morphology was determined through phase contrast microscopy. DAPI staining and TUNEL assay were performed for apoptotic study. Examination of cell cycle phase distribution was carried out through flow cytometry. In vitro wound healing assay was used for cell migration determination. Pimaric acid induced cytotoxicity in human ovarian cancer cells (PA-1) in a dose-dependent manner without causing too much cytotoxicity in human ovarian epithelial cells (T1074). Cell morphology in treated cancer cells showed significant changes compared to untreated controls. Furthermore, it was observed that the cytotoxic effects of Pimaric acid were apoptosis-mediated and caspase-dependent cascade. Western blotting analysis showed that the expression of apoptosis-associated proteins like BAX, p-53 and caspase-3 was enhanced and BCL-2 expression was diminished. The induction of cytotoxicity was mediated via endoplasmic reticulum stress through expressions of related proteins which showed a tremendous increase in p-PERK, PERK, AT-4, CHOP and IRE-1 levels after treatment. Cell cycle analysis through cytometry showed significant results as it revealed G2/M phase cell cycle arrest. Furthermore, the in vitro wound healing assay showed specific anti-migratory effects of Pimaric acid on PA-1 cells. In conclusion it can be assumed that Pimaric acid may act as a potential anticancer agent against ovarian carcinoma, however further investigations are required to validate this initial claim.

13-Methyl-palmatrubine shows an anti-tumor role in non-small cell lung cancer via shifting M2 to M1 polarization of tumor macrophages

BACKGROUND

Previous studies have substantiated that M2-activated tumor-associated macrophages (M2-TAMs) are involved in multiple malignancies. Presently, we probe the impact and related mechanisms of 13-methyl-palmatrubine (13MP), the Corydalis yanhusuo extract, on M2-TAM-mediated non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) development.

METHODS

IL-4 and IL-13 were adopted to induce M2-TAMs. The polarization state of TAMs was evaluated by quantitative reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR), Western blot (WB) and cellular immunofluorescence. NSCLC cells (A549 and NCL-H1975) were co-cultured with the conditioned medium (CM) of M2-TAMs. Followed by 13MP treatment, cell viability, proliferation, invasion, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and in-vivo growth of NSCLC cells were determined. Additionally, human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were co-cultured with the CM of M2-TAMs. The tube formation assay was made to test the tube formation capacity of HUVECs, and the expression of MMP3, MMP9, and VEGF was assessed by WB in the co-culture model. Mechanistically, WB was performed to validate the expression of the PI3K/AKT and JAK/STAT3 pathways in NSCLC cells (A549 and NCL-H1975) as well as in endothelial cell lines co-cultured with M2-TAMs.

RESULTS

13MP inhibited the proliferation, invasion, EMT, growth and enhanced apoptosis of NSCLC cells. 13MP dose-dependently boosted the polarization of TAM from M2 to M1 state. M2-TAMs enhanced the malignant behaviors of NSCLC cells, whereas 13MP hindered M2-TAM-mediated NSCLC cell proliferation and invasion. Meanwhile, 13MP weakened the M2-TAM-mediated angiogenesis. Moreover, 13MP inactivated the PI3K/AKT and JAK/STAT3 signaling in A549 cells, NCL-H1975 cells and HUVECs.

CONCLUSION

13MP suppresses TAM-mediated NSCLC progression via transforming the polarization of TAM from M2 to M1.

Investigation on the antitumor effects of paeonol against renal cell carcinoma based on network pharmacology and experimental validation

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is the most common cancer of the urinary system, the current treatments for RCC are unsatisfactory. Paeonol is the main pharmacologically active ingredient of the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) moutan cortex (Paeonia suffruticosa Andrews) and Paeonia albiflora Pall, and has been used in TCM to treat various diseases including cancer. However, the underlying therapeutic mechanisms of paeonol in RCC have not been investigated yet.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to explore the potential antitumor effects and mechanisms of paeonol on RCC based on network pharmacology and experimental validation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Network pharmacological analysis was performed to predict the potential targets and mechanism of paeonol against RCC. The antitumor effects and the priority targets of paeonol against RCC were further assessed by in vitro experiments.

RESULTS

104 intersection targets shared by paeonol and RCC were collected, 15 hub genes were obtained, among these genes, VEGFA expression was higher in RCC, and the higher expression of IL-6 or lower expression of AKT1, JUN, MAPK1, and MAPK8 were correlated to the shorter overall survival (OS) in RCC patients. GO and KEGG analyses suggested that the genes were mainly enriched in the positive regulation of cell death and apoptosis pathway. In vitro experiments showed that paeonol inhibited 786-O cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and promoted apoptosis. When 786-O cells were treated with paeonol, the expression of Bax increased while Bcl-2 and VEGFA decreased.

CONCLUSION

The present study demonstrated that paeonol might play an essential role in RCC by regulating cell proliferation, apoptosis, metastasis, and invasion through the Bcl-2/Bax signaling pathway and VEGFA, providing a theoretical and experimental scientific basis for future investigations of the antitumor effects of paeonol against RCC.

Immunosuppressive effect of Columbianadin on maturation, migration, allogenic T cell stimulation and phagocytosis capacity of TNF-α induced dendritic cells

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Angelicae pubescentis radix (APR) has a long history in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in China. It has the effects of dispelling wind to eliminate dampness, removing arthralgia and stopping pain in the Chinese Pharmacopeia, but its mechanisms was unclear. Columbianadin (CBN) was one of the main bioactive compounds of APR, and has many pharmacological effects. But the immunosuppressive effect of CBN on DCs and the potential mechanism needed to be explored.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The study was aimed to clarify the immunosuppressive effect of CBN on maturation, migration, allogenic T cell stimulation and phagocytosis capacity of TNF-α induced DCs.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Bone marrow-derived DCs were obtained and cultured from C57BL/6 mice in accordance with protocol. The phenotypic study (CD11c, CD40, CD80, CD86 and MHC Ⅱ) were measured by flow cytometry. FITC-dextran were uptaked by DCs and the change of endocytosis activity were mediated by acquired mannose receptor. Transwell chambers were used to detect the migration ability of DCs. Mixed leukocyte reaction (MLR) assay was used to detect the allostimulatory ability of CBN on TNF-α stimulated DCs. The secretion of cytokines and chemokines was measured by ELISA Kit. TLRs gene and MAPKs/NF-κB protein expression were checked by qRT-PCR and Western blot.

RESULTS

CBN inhibited the maturation of TNF-α-induced DCs while maintaining phagocytosis capabilities. Additionally, CBN inhibited the migration of TNF-α stimulated DCs, which related to reduce the production of chemokines (MCP-1, MIP-1α). Notably, CBN could suppress the proliferation of CD4⁺T cells by inhibiting DCs maturation, and decrease the proinflammatory cytokines IL-6 production. Furthermore, CBN inhibited mRNA expression of TLR2, TLR7 and TLR9 in TNF-α-activated DCs. Meanwhile, the phosphorylation of p38, JNK1/2 and NF-κB protein were significantly inhibited in CBN treated DCs.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings provided novel insights into the pharmacological activity of CBN. They also indicated that inhibition DCs maturation owning to the immunosuppressive effect of CBN. CBN was expected as a potential immunosuppressant and TLRs/MAPKs/NF-κB pathway may be an important mechanism for CBN's immunosuppressive activity.

Antiproliferative activity of an angular furanocoumarin-oroselol in human oral cancer cells is mediated via autophagy induction, inhibition of cell migration, invasion, and downregulation of PI3K/AKT signalling pathway

Oral carcinoma is a lethal type of cancer associated with huge morbidity and mortality. Oral cancer patients show a very low survival chances even if diagnosed at early stages. The need for novel naturally occurring chemotherapeutic drugs increases due to high cost and toxicity of currently used clinical drugs. Present study was designed to investigate anticancer property of oroselol, keeping in view the medicinal potential showed by coumarin subclass furanocoumarins. MTT assay and clonogenic assays were implemented for viability assessments. Transmission electron microscopy was used for autophagic studies. The transwell chambers assay was used to investigate the migration and invasion. Western blotting was performed to determine the expressions levels of autophagy and PI3K/AKT signalling related proteins. Results showed that oroselol could potentially inhibit viability of oral cancer SSC-4 cells in time- and dose-reliant fashion. The antiproliferative effects were mediated through autophagy induction as indicated by formation of autophagosomes and enhanced LC3-l expressions and reduced LC3-II and p62 expressions. Cancer cell migration and invasion was potentially supressed by oroselol cell treatment. The PI3K/AKT signalling pathway was blocked potentially by oroselol in SSC-4 cells which showed reduced phosphorylation of PI3K and AKT. In conclusion, oroselol holds a significant potential to induce autophagy-related antiproliferative effects along with inhibition of cell migration, cell invasion, and PI3K/AKT signalling pathway. Therefore, oroselol may prove to be a lead molecule in oral cancer chemotherapy provided further in vivo and toxicological studies are performed on it.

Inhibition of FGFR2 enhances chemosensitivity to gemcitabine in cholangiocarcinoma through the AKT/mTOR and EMT signaling pathways

AIM

To investigate the oncogenic role of FGFR2 in carcinogenesis in cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) cells. In addition, the feasibility of using FGFR inhibitors in combination with standard chemotherapy was also explored for the chemosensitizing effect in CCA cells.

MAIN METHODS

Five CCA cell lines were used to screen FGFR2 expression by Western immunoblotting. Two CCA cell lines, KKU-100 and KKU-213A, were knocked down of the FGFR2 gene using siRNA. Cell viability was assessed by the MTS cell proliferation assay. Reproductive cell death was assessed by clonogenic assay. The effects on cell migration and invasion were analyzed by the Transwell chamber method. Cell cycle analysis was performed by flow cytometry. Cell angiogenesis was assessed by HUVEC tube formation and human angiogenesis antibody array analysis. Proteins associated with proliferative and metastatic properties were evaluated by Western blotting.

KEY FINDINGS

Knockdown of FGFR2 suppressed cell growth and colony formation in CCA cells in association with G2/M cell cycle arrest and downregulation of STAT3, cyclin A and cyclin B1. Silencing FGFR2 enhanced the suppressive effect of gemcitabine (Gem) on cell migration and invasion. The combination of infigratinib, an FGFR inhibitor, and Gem, interrupted cell growth, migration, and invasion via downregulation of FGFR/AKT/mTOR pathways and the EMT-associated proteins vimentin and slug. Moreover, the combination also suppressed tube formation together with decreased expression of the proangiogenic factor VEGF.

SIGNIFICANCE

Inhibition of FGFRs by infigratinib enhanced the antitumor effect of Gem in CCA cells through downregulation of the FGFR/AKT/mTOR, FGFR/STAT3 and EMT signaling pathways.

Sevoflurane Suppresses the Growth, Metastasis, and Invasion of Endometrial Carcinoma Cells via miR-195-5p/JAK2 Axis

BACKGROUND

Highly invasive and destructive endometrioma is one of the most familiar primary malignant tumors among women. It has been studied that sevoflurane can influence the development of various malignancies. But whatever sevoflurane could influence endometrial tumors is unknown.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Through CCK8 and transwell analysis, we investigated the influence of sevoflurane on the development of endometrial tumors in vitro. Then, we studied the function of miRNA-195-5p to promote sevoflurane to inhibit the development of endometrial tumors. Then, we predicted the target genes of miRNA-195-5p by online software and focused on JAK2. Through luciferase assay, we proved the direct binding and regulation of miRNA-195-5p to JAK2.

RESULTS

We showed that sevoflurane could inhibit the growth, metastasis, and invasion of endometrial tumors via miRNA-195-5p/JAK2 axis.

CONCLUSIONS

Our research shows the function of sevoflurane in inhibiting the development of endometrial tumors via miRNA-195-5p/JAK2 axis. Our findings proved that sevoflurane is potentially beneficial for endometrial carcinoma patients with surgery and may be helpful for the choice of anesthetics in endometrial carcinoma operations.

Actin-Associated Proteins and Small Molecules Targeting the Actin Cytoskeleton

Actin-associated proteins (AAPs) act on monomeric globular actin (G-actin) and polymerized filamentous actin (F-actin) to regulate their dynamics and architectures which ultimately control cell movement, shape change, division; organelle localization and trafficking. Actin-binding proteins (ABPs) are a subset of AAPs. Since actin was discovered as a myosin-activating protein (hence named actin) in 1942, the protein has also been found to be expressed in non-muscle cells, and numerous AAPs continue to be discovered. This review article lists all of the AAPs discovered so far while also allowing readers to sort the list based on the names, sizes, functions, related human diseases, and the dates of discovery. The list also contains links to the UniProt and Protein Atlas databases for accessing further, related details such as protein structures, associated proteins, subcellular localization, the expression levels in cells and tissues, mutations, and pathology. Because the actin cytoskeleton is involved in many pathological processes such as tumorigenesis, invasion, and developmental diseases, small molecules that target actin and AAPs which hold potential to treat these diseases are also listed.

Inhibitory Effect of Ursolic Acid on the Migration and Invasion of Doxorubicin-Resistant Breast Cancer

The cause of death in most breast cancer patients is disease metastasis and the occurrence of multidrug resistance (MDR). Ornithine decarboxylase (ODC), which is involved into multiple pathways, is closely related to carcinogenesis and development. Ursolic acid (UA), a natural triterpenoid compound, has been shown to reverse the MDR characteristics of tumor cells. However, the effect of UA on the invasion and metastasis of tumor cells with MDR is not known. Therefore, we investigated the effects of UA on invasion and metastasis, ODC-related polyamine metabolism, and MAPK-Erk-VEGF/MMP-9 signaling pathways in a doxorubicin-resistant breast cancer cell (MCF-7/ADR) model. The obtained results showed that UA significantly inhibited the adhesion and migration of MCF-7/ADR cells, and had higher affinities with key active cavity residues of ODC compared to the known inhibitor di-fluoro-methyl-ornithine (DFMO). UA could downregulate ODC, phosphorylated Erk (P-Erk), VEGF, and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) activity. Meanwhile, UA significantly reduced the content of metabolites of the polyamine metabolism. Furthermore, UA increased the intracellular accumulation of Dox in MCF-7/ADR cells. Taken together, UA can inhibit against tumor progression during the treatment of breast cancer with Dox, and possibly modulate the Erk-VEGF/MMP-9 signaling pathways and polyamine metabolism by targeting ODC to exert these effects.

Ginsenoside Rh4 Suppressed Metastasis of Lung Adenocarcinoma via Inhibiting JAK2/STAT3 Signaling

Lung adenocarcinoma (LAC) is a common lung cancer with a high malignancy that urgently needs to be treated with effective drugs. Ginsenoside Rh4 exhibits outstanding antitumor activities. However, few studies reported its effects on growth, metastasis and molecular mechanisms in LAC. Here, Rh4 is certified to show a strong anti-LAC efficiency in vitro and in vivo. Results of flow cytometry and Western blot are obtained to exhibited that Rh4 markedly restrained cellular proliferation and colony formation by arresting the cell cycle in the G1 phase. Results from a wound healing assay and transwell assays demonstrated that Rh4 is active in the antimigration and anti-invasion of LAC. The analysis of Western blot, immunofluorescence and RT-qPCR confirmed that Rh4 reverses the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) through upregulating the gene expression of E-cadherin and downregulating that of snail, N-cadherin and vimentin. In vivo results from immunohistochemistry show consistent trends with cellular studies. Furthermore, Rh4 suppresses the Janus kinases2/signal transducer and activator of the transcription3 (JAK2/STAT3) signaling pathway stimulated by TGF-β1. Silencing the STAT3 signal or co-treating with AG490 both enhanced the EMT attenuation caused by Rh4, which revealed that Rh4 suppressed EMT via inhibiting the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway. These findings explore the capacity and mechanism of Rh4 on the antimetastasis of LAC, providing evidence for Rh4 to LAC therapy.

Cold Atmospheric Plasma Does Not Affect Stellate Cells Phenotype in Pancreatic Cancer Tissue in Ovo

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a challenging neoplastic disease, mainly due to the development of resistance to radio- and chemotherapy. Cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) is an alternative technology that can eliminate cancer cells through oxidative damage, as shown in vitro, in ovo, and in vivo. However, how CAP affects the pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs), key players in the invasion and metastasis of PDAC, is poorly understood. This study aims to determine the effect of an anti-PDAC CAP treatment on PSCs tissue developed in ovo using mono- and co-cultures of RLT-PSC (PSCs) and Mia PaCa-2 cells (PDAC). We measured tissue reduction upon CAP treatment and mRNA expression of PSC activation markers and extracellular matrix (ECM) remodelling factors via qRT-PCR. Protein expression of selected markers was confirmed via immunohistochemistry. CAP inhibited growth in Mia PaCa-2 and co-cultured tissue, but its effectiveness was reduced in the latter, which correlates with reduced ki67 levels. CAP did not alter the mRNA expression of PSC activation and ECM remodelling markers. No changes in MMP2 and MMP9 expression were observed in RLT-PSCs, but small changes were observed in Mia PaCa-2 cells. Our findings support the ability of CAP to eliminate PDAC cells, without altering the PSCs.

Echinodorus macrophyllus: Hydroxycinnamoyl derivatives reduces neutrophil migration through modulation of cytokines, chemokines, and prostaglandin in the air-pouch model

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

In Brazil, Echinodorus macrophyllus (Alismataceae), popularly known as chapéu-de-couro, is used to treat inflammatory diseases. Previous studies have shown a significant decrease in the acute inflammation for the aqueous extract of E. macrophyllus (AEEm) and its ethanolic fraction (Fr20).

AIM OF THE STUDY

This work fractionated Fr20, identified the fraction and substances responsible for the in vivo anti-inflammatory property, and demonstrated important immunomodulatory mechanisms of action.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fr20 was fractionated using Sephadex LH-20, and the most active fraction was chromatographically analyzed (HPLC-DAD and UPLC-ESI-TOF-MS). Leukotriene B4, Prostaglandin E2, and cytokines were determined by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and in vivo acute inflammation by the air pouch model.

RESULTS

The subfractions SF1, SF3, and mainly the SF4 decreased NO levels (p < 0.05). SF3 and SF4 showed high DPPH scavenger activity. SF1 was more effective than SF4 in reducing vasodilation, redness, and leukocyte migration into the 4-h air pouch. SF1 inhibited 90.5% (100 mg/kg) and SF4 54.0% (50 mg/kg), mainly affecting the number of neutrophils. SF1 and SF4 reduced the protein level in the exudate. SF1 was also more effective in inhibiting neutrophil migration in a transwell assay (46.3%) and reduced (86.1%) the Leukotriene B4 level in the exudate. After five days of treatment, some SF1 anti-inflammatory mechanisms were evaluated in the air pouch's 24 h exudate and tissue. Despite the high level of inflammation of the control group in this condition, SF1 confirmed the decrease in the protein level and neutrophils migration into the pouch. It decreased the number of bone marrow cells, indicating a systemic effect of SF1. SF1 also decreased TNF-α (87%), IL-1β (77%), CKCL1/KC (71.3%), and PGE2 (97.8%) and increased IL-10 (74.1%) levels in the air pouch exudate. Phytochemical analysis of SF1 indicates mainly hydroxycinnamoyl derivatives.

CONCLUSION

Hydroxycinnamoyl derivatives present in SF1 are related to the crucial anti-inflammatory mechanisms of E. macrophyllus, decreasing the levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, CKCL1/KC, LTB4, and PGE2 on the exudate. These results explain the reduction of vasodilatation, erythema, and neutrophil migration into the air pouch model, confirming this plant's anti-inflammatory potential.

The mechanism of action of Fangji Huangqi Decoction on epithelial-mesenchymal transition in breast cancer using high-throughput next-generation sequencing and network pharmacology

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Fangji Huangqi Decoction (FHD) is widely used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). FHD has been hypothesized to inhibit the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process, which may positively impact breast cancer prevention and treatment. However, its exact mechanism of action is still unknown.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to screen potential targets of FHD for the treatment of EMT in breast cancer through network pharmacology, and to verify their therapeutic effects in vitro experiments and high-throughput second-generation sequencing.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The data sets of effective components and targets of FHD were established through the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology database. The GeneCards and OMIM databases were used to establish breast cancer-related target datasets, which were then matched with the TCM target data. The interaction between key target proteins was analyzed using the STRING database; the gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) databases were used to identify the associated biological processes and enriched signal pathways, respectively. The active ingredient disease target network was analyzed using Cytoscape. Finally, next generation sequencing was used to verify the related pathways of FHD intervention in EMT in breast cancer. High-content screening was used to identify the genes/pathways affected by FHD. MDA-MB-231 and HCC-1937 breast cancer cell lines were used to evaluate the impact of FHD on migration, invasion, and EMT.

RESULTS

Eighty possible significant targets were identified for the treatment of breast cancer EMT with FHD; GO and KEGG were used to identify 173 cell biological processes associated with breast cancer (P < 0.05), including the NF-κB and PI3K-Akt signaling pathways. The high-throughput sequencing and network pharmacology results were highly consistent. The migration and invasion ability of MDA-MB-231 cells was reduced and their EMT status could be reversed by DSHR2 knockdown. The results of morphology and scratch assays showed that FHD could improve the EMT status of HCC-1973.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides more evidence to support the clinical application of FHD, which has reliable interventional effects on breast cancer EMT. Its therapeutic effects may involve a multi-target, multi-pathway, and multi-mechanism effect.

The water extracts of Euonymus alatus (Thunb.) Siebold attenuate diabetic retinopathy by mediating angiogenesis

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Euonymus alatus (Thunb.) Siebold (family Celastraceae) is a deciduous woody shrub that is recorded in ShenNong BenCaoJing. It has been widely used for diabetes in traditional Chinese medicine.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to identify the most effective extract of Euonymus alatus (EA) against high glucose-induced endothelial cells in vitro, evaluate its pharmacological effect on retinopathy in diabetic mice and explore its underlying mechanism by RNA sequencing.

METHODS

Retinal vascular endothelial cells (RF/6A) were treated with normal glucose (5.5 mmol/L glucose), high glucose (25 mmol/L glucose) or high glucose plus methanol extracts of EA (MEA), ethyl acetate extracts of EA (EEA) or water extracts of EA (WEA). The cytotoxicity and cell viability were determined by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. Cell migration was examined using the Transwell assay, and tube formation ability was measured using the Matrigel assay. Then, the KK-Ay mice were administered WEA or water for 12 weeks. The velocities of ocular blood flow were determined by Doppler ultrasound. RNA sequencing and reverse transcription quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) were performed on WEA-stimulated RF/6A cells to reveal the underlying mechanism.

RESULTS

The cytotoxicity assay found that 30 μg/mL MEA, 20 μg/mL EEA and 30 μg/mL WEA had no toxic effect on RF/6A cells. The cell viability results showed that MEA, EEA and WEA all decreased cell viability. Compared with the high-glucose group, both MEA and WEA decreased the number of migrated cells, while the inhibition rate of WEA was higher. The Matrigel results showed that 30 μg/mL WEA effectively reduced the total tube length. Moreover, WEA improved the haemodynamics of the central retinal artery. RNA sequencing coupled with RT-qPCR verified that WEA regulated angiogenesis-related factors in high glucose-stimulated RF/6A cells.

CONCLUSIONS

WEA inhibits the migration and tube formation of RF/6A cells and improves diabetic retinopathy (DR) by mediating angiogenesis.