Ginseng Berry Juice (GBJ) Regulates the Inflammation in Acute Ulcerative Mouse Models and the Major Bioactive Substances Are Ginsenosides Rb3, Rc, Rd, and Re

Panax ginseng fruit is known to have various biological effects owing to its large amount of saponins such as ginsenosides. In the present study, ginseng berry juice was confirmed to be effective against acute inflammation. Ginseng berry juice was used for analysis of active constituents, antioxidant efficacy, and in vivo inflammation. A high-performance liquid chromatography method was used for analysis of ginsenosides. In an HCl/ethanol-induced acute gastric injury model, microscopic, immunofluorescent, and immunohistochemical techniques were used for analysis of inhibition of gastric injury and mechanism study. In a mouse model of acute gastritis induced with HCl/ethanol, ginseng berry juice (GBJ, 250 mg/kg) showed similar gastric injury inhibitory effects as cabbage water extract (CB, 500 mg/kg, P.O). GBJ dose-dependently modulated the pro-inflammatory cytokines such as Tumor Necrosis Factor-α (TNF-α), Interleukin-6 (IL-6), and Interleukin-13 (IL-13). GBJ inhibited the activation of Nuclear Factor kappa bB (NF-κB) and suppressed the expressions of cyclooxigenase-2 (COX-2) and prostaglandin 2 (PGE2). The anti-inflammatory effect of GBJ is attributed to ginsenosides which have anti-inflammatory effects. Productivity as an effective food source for acute gastritis was analyzed and showed that GBJ was superior to CB. In addition, as a functional food for suppressing acute ulcerative symptoms, it was thought that the efficacy of gastric protection products would be higher if GBJ were produced in the form of juice rather than through various extraction methods.

Licochalcone C Inhibits the Growth of Human Colorectal Cancer HCT116 Cells Resistant to Oxaliplatin

Licochalcone C (LCC; PubChem CID:9840805), a chalcone compound originating from the root of Glycyrrhiza inflata, has shown anticancer activity against skin cancer, esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, and oral squamous cell carcinoma. However, the therapeutic potential of LCC in treating colorectal cancer (CRC) and its underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. Chemotherapy for CRC is challenging because of the development of drug resistance. In this study, we examined the antiproliferative activity of LCC in human colorectal carcinoma HCT116 cells, oxaliplatin (Ox) sensitive and Ox-resistant HCT116 cells (HCT116-OxR). LCC significantly and selectively inhibited the growth of HCT116 and HCT116-OxR cells. An in vitro kinase assay showed that LCC inhibited the kinase activities of EGFR and AKT. Molecular docking simulations using AutoDock Vina indicated that LCC could be in ATP-binding pockets. Decreased phosphorylation of EGFR and AKT was observed in the LCC-treated cells. In addition, LCC induced cell cycle arrest by modulating the expression of cell cycle regulators p21, p27, cyclin B1, and cdc2. LCC treatment induced ROS generation in CRC cells, and the ROS induction was accompanied by the phosphorylation of JNK and p38 kinases. Moreover, LCC dysregulated mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and the disruption of MMP resulted in the release of cytochrome c into the cytoplasm and activation of caspases to execute apoptosis. Overall, LCC showed anticancer activity against both Ox-sensitive and Ox-resistant CRC cells by targeting EGFR and AKT, inducing ROS generation and disrupting MMP. Thus, LCC may be potential therapeutic agents for the treatment of Ox-resistant CRC cells.

Design of chimeric GLP-1A using oligomeric bile acids to utilize transporter-mediated endocytosis for oral delivery

BACKGROUND

Despite the effectiveness of glucagon-like peptide-1 agonist (GLP-1A) in the treatment of diabetes, its large molecular weight and high hydrophilicity result in poor cellular permeability, thus limiting its oral bioavailability. To address this, we developed a chimeric GLP-1A that targets transporter-mediated endocytosis to enhance cellular permeability to GLP-1A by utilizing the transporters available in the intestine, particularly the apical sodium-dependent bile acid transporter (ASBT).

METHODS

In silico molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations were used to investigate the binding interactions of mono-, bis-, and tetra-deoxycholic acid (DOCA) (monoDOCA, bisDOCA, and tetraDOCA) with ASBT. After synthesizing the chimeric GLP-1A-conjugated oligomeric DOCAs (mD-G1A, bD-G1A, and tD-G1A) using a maleimide reaction, in vitro cellular permeability and insulinotropic effects were assessed. Furthermore, in vivo oral absorption in rats and hypoglycemic effect on diabetic db/db mice model were evaluated.

RESULTS

In silico results showed that tetraDOCA had the lowest interaction energy, indicating high binding affinity to ASBT. Insulinotropic effects of GLP-1A-conjugated oligomeric DOCAs were not different from those of GLP-1A-Cys or exenatide. Moreover, bD-G1A and tD-G1A exhibited improved in vitro Caco-2 cellular permeability and showed higher in vivo bioavailability (7.58% and 8.63%) after oral administration. Regarding hypoglycemic effects on db/db mice, tD-G1A (50 μg/kg) lowered the glucose level more than bD-G1A (50 μg/kg) compared with the control (35.5% vs. 26.4%).

CONCLUSION

GLP-1A was conjugated with oligomeric DOCAs, and the resulting chimeric compound showed the potential not only for glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist activity but also for oral delivery. These findings suggest that oligomeric DOCAs can be used as effective carriers for oral delivery of GLP-1A, offering a promising solution for enhancing its oral bioavailability and improving diabetes treatment.

Drug Development from Natural Products Based on the Pathogenic Mechanism of Asthma

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the pulmonary system associated with many wheeze-to-sleep apnea complications that may lead to death. In 2019, approximately 262 million patients suffered from asthma, and 455 thousand died from the disease worldwide. It is a more severe health problem in children and older adults, and as the aging of society intensifies, the problem will continue to worsen. Asthma inducers can be classified as indoor and outdoor allergens and can cause asthma due to their repeated invasion. There are several theories about asthma occurrence, such as the imbalance between Th1 and Th2, inflammation in the pulmonary system, and the abnormal apoptosis/cell proliferation of cells related to asthma. Although there are many medications for asthma, as it is an incurable disease, the purpose of the drugs is only to suppress the symptoms. The current drugs can be divided into relievers and controllers; however, as they have many adverse effects, such as immune suppression, growth retardation, promotion of cataracts, hyperactivity, and convulsions, developing new asthma drugs is necessary. Although natural products can have adverse effects, the development of asthma drugs from natural products may be beneficial, as some have anti-asthmatic effects such as immune modulation, anti-inflammation, and/or apoptosis modulation.

Partial Purification and Biochemical Evaluation of Protease Fraction (MA-1) from Mycoleptodonoides aitchisonii and Its Fibrinolytic Effect

The antioxidative proteolytic fraction, MA-1, was partially purified from Mycoleptodonoides aitchisonii. MA-1 was purified to homogeneity using a two-step procedure, which resulted in an 89-fold increase in specific activity and 42.5% recovery. SDS-PAGE revealed two proteins with a molecular weight of 48 kDa. The zymography results revealed proteolytic activity based on the MA-1 band. MA-1 was found to be stable in the presence of Na+, Ca2+, Fe3+, K+, and Mg2+. MA-1 was also stable in methanol, ethanol, and acetone, and its enzyme activity increased by 15% in SDS. MA-1 was inhibited by ethylenediaminetetra-acetic acid or ethylene glycol tetraacetic acid and exerted the highest specificity for the substrate, MeO-Suc-Arg-Pro-Tyr-pNA, for chymotrypsin. Accordingly, MA-1 belongs to the family of chymotrypsin-like metalloproteins. The optimum temperature was 40 °C and stability was stable in the range of 20 to 35 °C. The optimum pH and stability were pH 5.5 and pH 4-11. MA-1 exhibited stronger fibrinolytic activity than plasmin. MA-1 hydrolyzed the Aα, Bβ, and γ chains of fibrinogen within 2 h. MA-1 exhibited an antithrombotic effect in animal models. MA-1 was devoid of hemorrhagic activity at a dose of 80,000 U/kg. Overall, our results show that M. aitchisonii produces an acid-tolerant and antioxidative chymotrypsin-like fibrinolytic enzyme, and M. aitchisonii containing MA-1 could be a beneficial functional material for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases and possible complications.

Strong inhibition of xanthine oxidase and elastase of Baccharis trimera (Less.) DC stem extract and analysis of biologically active constituents

Introduction: In the present study, strong xanthine oxidase and elastase activities of Baccharis trimera (Less) DC stem (BT) were evaluated and active ingredients were identified to determine the possibility of using BT extract as an anti-hyperuricemia (gout) and cosmetic functional material. Methods: Hot water, 20, 40, 60, 80, and 100% ethanolic extracts of BT were prepared. The hot water extract had the highest extraction yield whereas the 100% ethanolic extract had the lowest yield. Results and discussion: Antioxidant effects were investigated based on DPPH radical scavenging activity, reducing power, and total phenolic contents. The 80% ethanolic extract showed the highest antioxidant activity. However, the 100% ethanol BT extract showed strong xanthine oxidase and elastase inhibitory activities. Functional substances were thought to be caffeic acid and luteolin. Minor active substances such as o-coumaric acid, palmitic acid, naringenin, protocatechoic acid, and linoleic acid were identified. Through this study, we firstly reported evidence that BT stem extract could be used as functional materials with anti-hyperuricemia and skin disease improving effects. BT stem extract could be used as an anti-hyperuricemia (gout) natural drug or cosmetic material. For further study, practical studies such as optimizing BT extraction and functional experiments for hyperuricemia (gout) and skin wrinkle improvement are considered necessary.

3-Deoxysappanchalcone Inhibits Cell Growth of Gefitinib-Resistant Lung Cancer Cells by Simultaneous Targeting of EGFR and MET Kinases

The mechanistic functions of 3-deoxysappanchalcone (3-DSC), a chalcone compound known to have many pharmacological effects on lung cancer, have not yet been elucidated. In this study, we identified the comprehensive anti-cancer mechanism of 3-DSC, which targets EGFR and MET kinase in drug-resistant lung cancer cells. 3-DSC directly targets both EGFR and MET, thereby inhibiting the growth of drug-resistant lung cancer cells. Mechanistically, 3-DSC induced cell cycle arrest by modulating cell cycle regulatory proteins, including cyclin B1, cdc2, and p27. In addition, concomitant EGFR downstream signaling proteins such as MET, AKT, and ERK were affected by 3-DSC and contributed to the inhibition of cancer cell growth. Furthermore, our results show that 3-DSC increased redox homeostasis disruption, ER stress, mitochondrial depolarization, and caspase activation in gefitinib-resistant lung cancer cells, thereby abrogating cancer cell growth. 3-DSC induced apoptotic cell death which is regulated by Mcl-1, Bax, Apaf-1, and PARP in gefitinib-resistant lung cancer cells. 3-DSC also initiated the activation of caspases, and the pan-caspase inhibitor, Z-VAD-FMK, abrogated 3-DSC induced-apoptosis in lung cancer cells. These data imply that 3-DSC mainly increased mitochondria-associated intrinsic apoptosis in lung cancer cells to reduce lung cancer cell growth. Overall, 3-DSC inhibited the growth of drug-resistant lung cancer cells by simultaneously targeting EGFR and MET, which exerted anti-cancer effects through cell cycle arrest, mitochondrial homeostasis collapse, and increased ROS generation, eventually triggering anticancer mechanisms. 3-DSC could potentially be used as an effective anti-cancer strategy to overcome EGFR and MET target drug-resistant lung cancer.

Purification of phenoloxidase from Haliotis discus hannai and its anti-inflammatory activity in vitro

Haliotis discus hannai, a food with a high protein content, is widely consumed in Asian countries. It is known to have antioxidant, anticancer, and antibacterial effects. Since the biological significance of H. discus hannai hemolymph has not been widely studied, the objective of the present study was to purify phenoloxidase (PO) and investigate its immunological effects on human colonic epithelial cells. PO was purified through ammonium sulfate precipitation and one step column chromatography. The molecular weight of the protein was about 270 kDa. When PO was mixed with Gram-negative bacteria-derived lipopolysaccharide (LPS) at various ratios (10:1-1:10, w/w), the amount of residual LPS was reduced. PO at concentrations up to 200 μg/mL was not cytotoxic to HT-29 cells. The inflammatory response induced by LPS in HT-29 cells was regulated when the concentration of PO was increased. With increasing concentration of PO, production levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, cytokines associated with hyperimmune responses such as IL4, IL-5, and INF-γ, and prostaglandin 2 (PGE2) were regulated. It was thought that simultaneous treatment with PO and LPS anti-inflammatory effects in HT-29 cells showed by regulating the ERK1/2-mediated NF-κB pathway. Results of this study suggest that H. discus hannai hemolymph is involved in the regulation of Gram-negative bacteria-related inflammatory immune responses in human colonic epithelial cells.

Oral lymphatic delivery of alpha-galactosylceramide and ovalbumin evokes anti-cancer immunization

We developed an orally delivered nanoemulsion that induces cancer immunization. It consists of tumor antigen-loaded nano-vesicles carrying the potent invariant natural killer T-cell (iNKT) activator α-galactosylceramide (α-GalCer), to trigger cancer immunity by effectively activating both innate and adaptive immunity. It was validated that adding bile salts to the system boosted intestinal lymphatic transport as well as the oral bioavailability of ovalbumin (OVA) via the chylomicron pathway. To increase intestinal permeability further and amplify the antitumor responses, an ionic complex of cationic lipid 1,2-dioleyl-3-trimethylammonium propane (DTP) with sodium deoxycholate (DA) (DDP) and α-GalCer were anchored onto the outer oil layer to form OVA-NE#3. As expected, OVA-NE#3 exhibited tremendously improved intestinal cell permeability as well as enhanced delivery to mesenteric lymph nodes (MLNs). Subsequent activation of dendritic cells and iNKTs, in MLNs were also observed. Tumor growth in OVA-expressing mice with melanoma was more strongly suppressed (by 71%) after oral administration of OVA-NE#3 than in untreated controls, confirming the strong immune response induced by the system. The serum levels of OVA-specific IgG1 and IgG2a were 3.52- and 6.14-fold higher than in controls. Treating OVA-NE#3 increased the numbers of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, including cytotoxic T-cell and M1-like macrophage. Antigen- and α-GalCer-associated enrichment of dendritic cells and iNKTs in tumor tissues also increased after OVA-NE#3 treatment. These observations indicate that our system induces both cellular and humoral immunity by targeting the oral lymphatic system. It may offer a promising oral anti-cancer vaccination strategy that involves the induction of systemic anti-cancer immunization.

Licochalcone B Induces ROS-Dependent Apoptosis in Oxaliplatin-Resistant Colorectal Cancer Cells via p38/JNK MAPK Signaling

Licochalcone B (LCB) exhibits anticancer activity in oral cancer, lung cancer, and hepatocellular carcinoma cells. However, little is known about its antitumor mechanisms in human oxaliplatin-sensitive and -resistant colorectal cancer (CRC) cells. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the antitumor potential of LCB against human colorectal cancer in vitro and analyze its molecular mechanism of action. The viability of CRC cell lines was evaluated using the MTT assay. Flow cytometric analyses were performed to investigate the effects of LCB on apoptosis, cell cycle distribution, reactive oxygen species (ROS), mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) dysfunction, and multi-caspase activity in CRC cells. The results demonstrated that LCB induced a reduction in cell viability, apoptosis, G2/M cell cycle arrest, ROS generation, MMP depolarization, activation of multi-caspase, and JNK/p38 MAPK. However, p38 (SB203580) and JNK (SP600125) inhibitors prevented the LCB-induced reduction in cell viability. The ROS scavenger N-acetylcysteine (NAC) inhibited LCB-induced reduction in cell viability, apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, ROS generation, MMP depolarization, and multi-caspase and JNK/p38 MAPK activities. Taken together, LCB has a potential therapeutic effect against CRC cells through the ROS-mediated JNK/p38 MAPK signaling pathway. Therefore, we expect LCB to have promising potential as an anticancer therapeutic and prophylactic agent.

A review on the processing of functional proteins or peptides derived from fish by-products and their industrial applications

To understand the production and characteristics of protein hydrolysates pertaining to individual fish species, we selected and analyzed the most important commercial fish species according to the market value based on the Statistics on International Exports of Fishery Commodities by Food and Agriculture Organization. Accordingly, salmon, shrimp, cod, tuna, squid, and herring are marine species with high global value. Peptides obtained from their by-products were predominant in hydrophobic amino acids such as alanine, phenylalanine, methionine, proline, valine, tyrosine, tryptophan, leucine, and isoleucine. Bioactive peptides are short with a length of 2-20 amino acids. They remain inactive when they are within their parent proteins. Low molecular weight (0.3-8 kDa) peptides from hydrolyzed protein are easily digestible, readily absorbed by the body and are water-soluble. The hydrophobic nature contributes to their bioactivity, which facilitates their interactions with the membrane lipid bilayers. Incomplete hydrolysis results in low yields of hydrophobic amino acids. The glycosylation type of the resulting peptide fragment determines the different applications of the hydrolysate. The degree of conservation of the glycosidic residues and the size of the peptides are influenced by the method used to generate these hydrolysates. Therefore, it is crucial to explore inexpensive novel methodologies to generate bioactive peptides. According to the current studies, a unified approach (in silico estimation coupled with peptidomics) can be used for the identification of novel peptides with diverse physiological and technological functions. From an industrial perspective, the reusability of immobilized enzymes and membrane separation techniques (e.g., ultrafiltration) on marine by-products can offer low operating costs and higher yield for large-scale production of bioactive peptides. This review summarizes the production processes and essential characteristics of protein hydrolysates from fish by-products and presents the advances in their application.

Echinatin induces reactive oxygen species-mediated apoptosis via JNK/p38 MAPK signaling pathway in colorectal cancer cells

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a very common and deadly cancer worldwide, and oxaliplatin is used as first-line chemotherapy. However, resistance usually develops, limiting treatment. Echinatin (Ech) is the main component of licorice and exhibits various therapeutic effects on inflammation-mediated diseases and cancer, ischemia/reperfusion, and liver injuries. The present study elucidated the underlying molecular mechanism of Ech-induced apoptosis in both oxaliplatin-sensitive (HT116 and HT29) and -resistant (HCT116-OxR and HT29-OxR) CRC cells. To evaluate the antiproliferative activities of Ech, we performed MTT and soft agar assays. Ech reduced viability, colony size, and numbers of CRC cells. The underlying molecular mechanisms were explored by various flow cytometry analyses. Ech-induced annexin-V stained cells, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, cell cycle arrest, JNK/p38 MAPK activation, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, mitochondrial membrane potential depolarization, and multi-caspase activity. In addition apoptosis-, cell cycle-, and ER stress-related protein levels were confirmed by western blotting. Moreover, we verified ROS-mediated cell death by treatment with inhibitors such as N-acetyl-L-cysteine, SP600125, and SB203580. Taken together, Ech exhibits anticancer activity in oxaliplatin-sensitive and -resistant CRCs by inducing ROS-mediated apoptosis through the JNK/p38 MAPK signaling pathway. This is the first study to show that Ech has the potential to treat drug-resistant CRC, providing new directions for therapeutic strategies targeting drug-resistant CRC.

Preparation of topical bimatoprost with enhanced skin infiltration and in vivo hair regrowth efficacy in androgenic alopecia

To prepare a topical formulation of bimatoprost (BIM) with high skin permeability, we designed a solvent mixture system composed of ethanol, diethylene glycol monoethyl ether, cyclomethicone, and butylated hydroxyanisole, serving as a volatile solvent, nonvolatile co-solvent, spreading agent, and antioxidant, respectively. The ideal topical BIM formulation (BIM–TF#5) exhibited 4.60-fold higher human skin flux and a 529% increase in dermal drug deposition compared to BIM in ethanol. In addition, compared to the other formulations, BIM–TF#5 maximally activated human dermal papilla cell proliferation at a concentration of 5 μM BIM, equivalent to 10 μM minoxidil. Moreover, BIM–TF#5 (0.3% [w/w] BIM) significantly promoted hair regrowth in the androgenic alopecia mouse model and increased the area covered by hair at 10 days by 585% compared to the vehicle-treated mice, indicating that entire telogen area transitioned into the anagen phase. Furthermore, at day 14, the hair weight of mice treated with BIM–TF#5 (5% [w/w] BIM) was 8.45- and 1.30-fold greater than in the 5% (w/w) BIM in ethanol and 5% (w/v) minoxidil treated groups, respectively. In the histological examination, the number and diameter of hair follicles in the deep subcutis were significantly increased in the BIM–TF#5 (0.3 or 5% [w/w] BIM)-treated mice compared to the mice treated with vehicle or 5% (w/w) BIM in ethanol. Thus, our findings suggest that BIM–TF#5 is an effective formulation to treat scalp alopecia, as part of a novel therapeutic approach involving direct prostamide F2α receptor-mediated stimulation of dermal papilla cells within hair follicles.

Picropodophyllotoxin Induces G1 Cell Cycle Arrest and Apoptosis in Human Colorectal Cancer Cells via ROS Generation and Activation of p38 MAPK Signaling Pathway

Picropodophyllotoxin (PPT), an epimer of podophyllotoxin, is derived from the roots of Podophyllum hexandrum and exerts various biological effects, including anti-proliferation activity. However, the effect of PPT on colorectal cancer cells and the associated cellular mechanisms have not been studied. In the present study, we explored the anticancer activity of PPT and its underlying mechanisms in HCT116 cells. The 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay was used to monitor cell viability. Flow cytometry was used to evaluate cell cycle distribution, the induction of apoptosis, the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS), assess the mitochondrial membrane potential (Δψm), and multi-caspase activity. Western blot assays were performed to detect the expression of cell cycle regulatory proteins, apoptosis-related proteins, and p38 MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinase). We found that PPT induced apoptosis, cell cycle arrest at the G1 phase, and ROS in the HCT116 cell line. In addition, PPT enhanced the phosphorylation of p38 MAPK, which regulates apoptosis and PPT-induced apoptosis. The phosphorylation of p38 MAPK was inhibited by an antioxidant agent (N-acetyl-L-cysteine, NAC) and a p38 inhibitor (SB203580). PPT induced depolarization of the mitochondrial inner membrane and caspase-dependent apoptosis, which was attenuated by exposure to Z-VAD-FMK. Overall, these data indicate that PPT induced G1 arrest and apoptosis via ROS generation and activation of the p38 MAPK signaling pathway.

Podophyllotoxin Induces ROS-Mediated Apoptosis and Cell Cycle Arrest in Human Colorectal Cancer Cells via p38 MAPK Signaling

Podophyllotoxin (PT), a lignan compound from the roots and rhizomes of Podophyllum peltatum, has diverse pharmacological activities including anticancer effect in several types of cancer. The molecular mechanism of the anticancer effects of PT on colorectal cancer cells has not been reported yet. In this study, we sought to evaluate the anticancer effect of PT on human colorectal cancer HCT116 cells and identify the detailed molecular mechanism. PT inhibited the growth of cells and colony formation in a concentration-dependent manner and induced apoptosis as determined by the annexin V/7-aminoactinomycin D double staining assay. PT-induced apoptosis was accompanied by cell cycle arrest in the G2/M phase and an increase in the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The effects of PT on the induction of ROS and apoptosis were prevented by pretreatment with N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC), indicating that an increase in ROS generation mediates the apoptosis of HCT116 cells induced by PT. Furthermore, Western blot analysis showed that PT upregulated the level of phospho (p)-p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK). The treatment of SB203580, a p38 inhibitor, strongly prevented the apoptosis induced by PT, suggesting that PT-induced apoptosis involved the p38 MAPK signaling pathway. In addition, PT induced the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential and multi-caspase activation. The results suggested that PT induced cell cycle arrest in the G2/M phase and apoptosis through the p38 MAPK signaling pathway by upregulating ROS in HCT116 cells.

The 3-deoxysappanchalcone induces ROS-mediated apoptosis and cell cycle arrest via JNK/p38 MAPKs signaling pathway in human esophageal cancer cells

BACKGROUND

The 3-deoxysappanchalcone (3-DSC), a chemical separated from Caesalpinia sappan L, has been substantiated to display anti-inflammatory, anti-influenza, and anti-allergy activities according to previous studies. However, the underlying mechanisms of action on esophageal cancer remain unknown.

PURPOSE

The present research aims to survey the action mechanisms of 3-DSC in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) cells in vitro.

METHODS

Evaluation of cytotoxicity was determined by MTT tetrazolium salt assay and soft agar assay. Cell cycle distribution, apoptosis induction, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and multi-caspases activity were appreciated by Muse™ Cell Analyzer. The expressions of cell cycle- and apoptosis-related proteins were presented using Western blotting.

RESULTS

3-DSC blocked cell growth and colony formation ability in a concentration-dependent manner and invoked apoptosis, G2/M cell cycle arrest, ROS production, MMP depolarization, and multi-caspase activity. Furthermore, Western blotting results demonstrated that 3-DSC upregulated the expression of phospho (p)-c-jun NH2-terminal kinases (JNK), p-p38, cell cycle regulators, pro-apoptotic proteins, and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-related proteins whereas downregulated the levels of anti-apoptotic proteins and cell cycle promoters. The effects of 3-DSC on ROS induction were counteracted by pretreatment with N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC). Also, our results indicated that p38 (SB203580) and JNK (SP600125) inhibitor slightly inhibited 3-DSC-induced apoptosis. These results showed that 3-DSC-related G2/M phase cell cycle arrest and apoptosis by JNK/p38 MAPK signaling pathway in ESCC cells were mediated by ROS.

CONCLUSION

ROS generation by 3-DSC in cancer cells could be an attractive strategy for apoptosis of cancer cells by inducing cell cycle arrest, ER stress, MMP loss, multi-caspase activity, and JNK/p38 MAPK pathway. Our findings suggest that 3-DSC is a promising novel therapeutic candidate for both prevention and treatment of esophageal cancer.

Deoxypodophyllotoxin Inhibits Cell Growth and Induces Apoptosis by Blocking EGFR and MET in Gefitinib-Resistant Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

As one of the major types of lung cancer, non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounts for the majority of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Treatments for NSCLC includes surgery, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy. Among the targeted therapies, resistance to inhibitors of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is common and remains a problem to be solved. MET (hepatocyte growth factor receptor) amplification is one of the major causes of EGFR-tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) resistance. Therefore, there exists a need to find new and more efficacious therapies. Deoxypodophyllotoxin (DPT) extracted from Anthriscus sylvestris roots exhibits various pharmacological activities including anti-inflammation and anti-cancer effects. In this study we sought to determine the anti-cancer effects of DPT on HCC827GR cells, which are resistant to gefitinib (EGFR-TKI) due to regulation of EGFR and MET and their related signaling pathways. To identify the direct binding of DPT to EGFR and MET, we performed pull-down, ATP-binding, and kinase assays. DPT exhibited competitive binding with ATP against the network kinases EGFR and MET and reduced their activities. Also, DPT suppressed the expression of p-EGFR and p-MET as well as their downstreat proteins p-ErbB3, p-AKT, and p-ERK. The treatment of HCC827GR cells with DPT induced high ROS generation that led to endoplasmic-reticulum stress. Accordingly, loss of mitochondrial membrane potential and apoptosis by multi-caspase activation were observed. In conclusion, these results demonstrate the apoptotic effects of DPT on HCC827GR cells and signify the potential of DPT to serve as an adjuvant anti-cancer drug by simultaneously inhibiting EGFR and MET.

Preparation of Topical Itraconazole with Enhanced Skin/Nail Permeability and In Vivo Antifungal Efficacy against Superficial Mycosis

In this study, a stable and highly skin-permeable topical delivery system for itraconazole (ITZ) was designed to provide effective treatment against superficial mycosis. Herein, ITZ was incorporated into a solution composed of ethanol, benzyl alcohol, hydrochloric acid, Transcutol P, and cyclomethicone as a delivery vehicle, solubilizer, protonating agent, permeation enhancer, and spreading agent, respectively. At 72 h, the optimal topical ITZ formulation (ITZ–TF#11) exhibited 135% enhanced skin permeability, which led to increases in drug deposition in the stratum corneum, epidermis, and dermis of 479%, 739%, and 2024%, respectively, compared with the deposition of 1% ITZ in ethanol (control). Moreover, on day 7, ITZ–TF#11 demonstrated 2.09- and 2.30-fold enhanced nail flux and drug deposition, compared with the control. At a dose of 40 mg/kg/day, ITZ–TF#11 showed 323% greater lesion recovery, a 165% lower mean erythema severity score, and a 37% lower mean logarithm of viable fungal cells in skin in the treated area, compared with mice that received oral ITZ at the same dose. Overall, the findings imply that ITZ–TF#11 is a superior alternative to oral ITZ for treatment of superficial mycosis.

Targeted inhibition of c-MET by podophyllotoxin promotes caspase-dependent apoptosis and suppresses cell growth in gefitinib-resistant non-small cell lung cancer cells

BACKGROUND

Lung cancer has the highest incidence and cancer-related mortality of all cancers worldwide. Its treatment is focused on molecular targeted therapy. c-MET plays an important role in the development and metastasis of various human cancers and has been identified as an attractive potential anti-cancer target. Podophyllotoxin (PPT), an aryltetralin lignan isolated from the rhizomes of Podophyllum species, has several pharmacological activities that include anti-viral and anti-cancer effects. However, the mechanism of the anti-cancer effects of PPT on gefitinib-sensitive (HCC827) or -resistant (MET-amplified HCC827GR) non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells remains unexplored.

PURPOSE

In the present study, we investigated the underlying mechanisms of PPT-induced apoptosis in NSCLC cells and found that the inhibition of c-MET kinase activity contributed to PPT-induced cell death.

METHODS

The regulation of c-MET by PPT was examined by pull-down assay, ATP-competitive binding assay, kinase activity assay, molecular docking simulation, and Western blot analysis. The cell growth inhibitory effects of PPT on NSCLC cells were assessed using the MTT assay, soft agar assay, and flow cytometry analysis.

RESULTS

PPT could directly interact with c-MET and inhibit kinase activity, which further induced the apoptosis of HCC827GR cells. In contrast, PPT did not significantly affect EGFR kinase activity. PPT significantly inhibited the cell viability of HCC827GR cells, whereas the PPT-treated HCC827 cells showed a cell viability of more than 80%. PPT dose-dependently induced G2/M cell cycle arrest, as shown by the downregulation of cyclin B1 and cdc2, and upregulation of p27 expression in HCC827GR cells. Furthermore, PPT treatment induced Bad expression and downregulation of Mcl-1, survivin, and Bcl-xl expression, subsequently activating multi-caspases. PPT thereby induced caspase-dependent apoptosis in HCC827GR cells.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest the potential of PPT as a c-MET inhibitor to overcome tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance in lung cancer.

Socheongryongtang suppresses COPD-related changes in the pulmonary system through both cytokines and chemokines in a LPS COPD model

Context: Socheongryongtang is a traditional Korean medical prescription used to treat pulmonary diseases.Objective: This study investigated the therapeutic mechanism of socheongryongtang for pulmonary diseases.Materials and methods: Seventy BALB/c mice were used: control, 0.8 mg/kg/study LPS intranasal instillation, 1 mg/kg/day Spiriva oral administration for five days, two socheongryongtang groups (150 or 1500 mg/kg/day orally treatment for five days). To illuminate the anti-COPD mechanism, several factors were evaluated such as WBC and differential counts in BALF and IgE in serum, morphological changes, and changes of COPD-related cytokines (TNF-α, IFN-γ, TGF-β) and chemokines (CXCL1, CCL-2, CCR2) in the lung. In order to confirm the statistical significance, all results were compared under p < 0.01 and p < 0.05.Results: LPS induced a high level of WBC, neutrophils and eosinophils in our in vivo study. Additionally, COPD related cytokines and chemokines such as TNF-α, IFN-γ, TGF-β, CXCL1, CCL-2 and CCR2 were induced by LPS. Compared to the LPS treatment group, socheongryongtang significantly controlled the level of WBC, neutrophils and eosinophils as well as the level of IgE. It effectively down-regulated the morphological changes, such as fibrosis near bronchoalveolar spaces, small airway destruction (emphysema), etc. It also inhibited the levels of COPD-related cytokines (TNF-α, IFN-γ, TGF-β) and chemokines (CXCL1, CCL-2, CCR2) compared to the LPS treatment group. In particular, socheongryongtang significantly down-regulated the levels of TNF-α, IFN-γ, and CCR2.Conclusions: Socheongryongtang controlled COPD, but as it has been used as a prescription for respiratory disease, we should additionally evaluate the therapeutic effects against various pulmonary diseases.

Korean Red Ginseng affects ovalbumin-induced asthma by modulating IL-12, IL-4, and IL-6 levels and the NF-κB/COX-2 and PGE2 pathways

Background

Asthma is an incurable hyper-responsive disease of the pulmonary system that is caused by various allergens, including indoor and outdoor stimulators. According to the Global Asthma Network, 339 million people suffered from asthma in 2018, with particularly severe forms in children. Numerous treatments for asthma are available; however, they are frequently associated with adverse effects such as growth retardation, neurological disorders (e.g., catatonia, poor concentration, and insomnia), and physiological disorders (e.g., immunosuppression, hypertension, hyperglycemia, and osteoporosis).

Methods

Korean Red Ginseng has long been used to treat numerous diseases in many countries, and we investigated the anti-asthmatic effects and mechanisms of action of Korean Red Ginseng. Eighty-four BALB/c mice were assigned to 6 treatment groups: control, ovalbumin-induced asthma group, dexamethasone treatment group, and 3 groups treated with Korean Red Ginseng water extract (KRGWE) at 5, 25, or 50 mg/kg/day for 5 days. Anti-asthmatic effects of KRGWE were assessed based on biological changes, such as white blood cell counts and differential counts in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, serum IgE levels, and histopathological changes in the lungs, and by examining anti-asthmatic mechanisms, such as the cytokines associated with Th1, Th2, and Treg cells and inflammation pathways.

Results

KRGWE affected ovalbumin-induced changes, such as increased white blood cell counts, increased IgE levels, and morphological changes (mucous hypersecretion, epithelial cell hyperplasia, inflammatory cell infiltration) by downregulating cytokines such as IL-12, IL-4, and IL-6 via GATA-3 inactivation and suppression of inflammation via NF-κB/COX-2 and PGE₂ pathways.

Conclusion

KRGWE is a promising drug for asthma treatment.

Deoxypodophyllotoxin, a Lignan from Anthriscus sylvestris, Induces Apoptosis and Cell Cycle Arrest by Inhibiting the EGFR Signaling Pathways in Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cells

Deoxypodophyllotoxin (DPT) derived from Anthriscus sylvestris (L.) Hoffm has attracted considerable interest in recent years because of its anti-inflammatory, antitumor, and antiviral activity. However, the mechanisms underlying DPT mediated antitumor activity have yet to be fully elucidated in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). We show here that DPT inhibited the kinase activity of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) directly, as well as phosphorylation of its downstream signaling kinases, AKT, GSK-3β, and ERK. We confirmed a direct interaction between DPT and EGFR by pull-down assay using DPT-beads. DPT treatment suppressed ESCC cell viability and colony formation in a time- and dose-dependent manner, as shown by MTT analysis and soft agar assay. DPT also down-regulated cyclin B1 and cdc2 expression to induce G2/M phase arrest of the cell cycle and upregulated p21 and p27 expression. DPT treatment of ESCC cells triggered the release of cytochrome c via loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, thereby inducing apoptosis by upregulation of related proteins. In addition, treatment of KYSE 30 and KYSE 450 cells with DPT increased endoplasmic reticulum stress, reactive oxygen species generation, and multi-caspase activation. Consequently, our results suggest that DPT has the potential to become a new anticancer therapeutic by inhibiting EGFR mediated AKT/ERK signaling pathway in ESCC.

New Synthesized Galloyl-RGD Inhibits Melanogenesis by Regulating the CREB and ERK Signaling Pathway in B16F10 Melanoma Cells

Gallic acid (3, 4, 5-trihydroxybenzoic acid) is a phytochemical derived from diverse herbs. It has been reported to have effective antifungal, antiviral and antioxidant activity. However, gallic acid exhibits low solubility and instability at high temperatures. In a previous study, in order to overcome these limitations, we synthesized galloyl-RGD by combining gallic acid with arginine, glycine and asparaginic acid (RGD peptide). This compound showed better thermal stability than gallic acid. In this study, we investigated the antimelanogenic effect of galloyl-RGD and the underlying mechanism for this effect. Galloyl-RGD markedly inhibited melanin content and tyrosinase activity in a concentration-dependent manner. We also found that galloyl-RGD decreased the levels of melanogenesis-related gene and protein. In addition, galloyl-RGD reduces intracellular cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) levels that leads to inhibition of cAMP-responsive element binding protein (CREB) phosphorylation and activates extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) expression. These results indicate that CREB and ERK regulation by galloyl-RGD contributes to reduced melanin synthesis via degradation of microphthalmia-associated transcription factor. Therefore, galloyl-RGD can be potential candidate for application in cosmetic or pharmaceutical industry.

Anti-inflammatory Effect of Curcuma longa and Allium hookeri Co-treatment via NF-κB and COX-2 Pathways

Although inflammation is a host defense mechanism, chronic inflammation mediates several diseases, including cancer, allergy, asthma, and autoimmune diseases, and reportedly, it is associated with a 60% mortality rate. There are several reports on the anti-inflammatory effects of Curcuma longa and Allium hookeri. However, although they can be used as culinary materials and have biological effects, they are not effective anti-inflammatory agents. In this study, we evaluated the synergic effect of C. longa and A. hookeri in order to confirm the possibility of a new anti-inflammatory agent. Based on cell viability and cytokine analyses, the appropriate ratio of C. longa and A. hookeri was confirmed using an air pouch animal model. Then, the anti-inflammatory effect of C. longa and A. hookeri co-treatment was evaluated by measuring the immune cell count and cytokines in the exudate and by comparing the morphological changes and cytokines in inflamed skin samples. Additionally, we evaluated the NF-κB/COX-2 pathway and iNOS levels. The active constituents detected in C. longa were demethoxycurcumin and bisdemethoxycurcumin, and that detected in A. hookeri was methylsulfonylmethane. An in vitro assessment determined the appropriate drug ratio as 3:7. In a carrageenan-induced inflammatory model, co-treatment effectively suppressed inflammatory cytokines, including IFN-γ, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-13, and IL-17, and recovered inflammation-related morphological changes in the skin. The anti-inflammatory effect of the co-treatment was mediated through the NF-κB/COX-2 pathway and iNOS inhibition. We concluded that co-treatment with C. longa and A. hookeri synergistically inhibited inflammation via the NF-κB/COX-2/iNOS pathway.

Licochalcone D Induces ROS-Dependent Apoptosis in Gefitinib-Sensitive or Resistant Lung Cancer Cells by Targeting EGFR and MET

Licochalcone D (LCD), a flavonoid isolated from a Chinese medicinal plant Glycyrrhiza inflata, has a variety of pharmacological activities. However, the anti-cancer effects of LCD on non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) have not been investigated yet. The amplification of MET (hepatocyte growth factor receptor) compensates for the inhibition of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) activity due to tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI), leading to TKI resistance. Therefore, EGFR and MET can be attractive targets for lung cancer. We investigated the anti-proliferative and apoptotic effects of LCD in lung cancer cells HCC827 (gefitinib-sensitive) and HCC827GR (gefitinib-resistant) through 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, pull-down/kinase assay, cell cycle analysis, Annexin-V/7-ADD staining, reactive oxygen species (ROS) assay, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) assay, multi-caspase assay, and Western blot analysis. The results showed that LCD inhibited phosphorylation and the kinase activity of EGFR and MET. In addition, the predicted pose of LCD was competitively located at the ATP binding site. LCD suppressed lung cancer cells growth by blocking cell cycle progression at the G2/M transition and inducing apoptosis. LCD also induced caspases activation and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) cleavage, thus displaying features of apoptotic signals. These results provide evidence that LCD has anti-tumor effects by inhibiting EGFR and MET activities and inducing ROS-dependent apoptosis in NSCLC, suggesting that LCD has the potential to treat lung cancer.

Licochalcone H Synthesized by Modifying Structure of Licochalcone C Extracted from Glycyrrhiza inflata Induces Apoptosis of Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cells

Esophageal cancer is one of the malignant cancers with a low 5-year survival rate. Licochalcone (LC) H, a chemically synthesized substance, is a regioisomer of LCC extracted from licorice. The purpose of this study was to determine whether LCH might have anticancer effect on human esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) cell lines via apoptosis signaling pathway. After 48 h of treatment, IC₅₀ of LCH in KYSE 30, KYSE 70, KYSE 410, KYSE 450, and KYSE 510 cells were 15, 14, 18, 15, and 16 μM, respectively. This study demonstrated that LCH potently suppressed proliferation of ESCC cells in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. LCH triggered G2/M-phase arrest by modulating expression levels of cdc2, cyclin B1, p21, and p27. LCH also induced apoptosis of ESCC cells through reactive oxygen species-mediated endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress via JNK/p38 activation pathways. The anticancer effect of LCH was associated with ER stress and mitochondrial dysfunction. It also affected protein levels of Mcl-1, tBid, Bax, Bcl-2, cytochrome c, Apaf-1, PARP, cleaved-PARP, and ER stress-related proteins (GRP78 and CHOP). Our findings provide the first demonstration that LCH has anticancer effect on ESCC. Thus, LCH might have potential for preventing and/or treating human ESCC.

Dual inhibition of EGFR and MET by Echinatin retards cell growth and induces apoptosis of lung cancer cells sensitive or resistant to gefitinib

Patients with non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) containing epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) amplification or sensitive mutations initially respond to tyrosine kinase inhibitor gefitinib; however, the treatment is less effective over time. Gefitinib resistance mechanisms include MET gene amplification. A therapeutic strategy targeting MET as well as EGFR can overcome resistance to gefitinib. In the present study we identified Echinatin (Ecn), a characteristic chalcone in licorice, which inhibited both EGFR and MET and strongly altered NSCLC cell growth. The antitumor efficacy of Ecn against gefitinib-sensitive or -resistant NSCLC cells with EGFR mutations and MET amplification was confirmed by suppressing cell proliferation and anchorage-independent colony growth. During the targeting of EGFR and MET, Ecn significantly blocked the kinase activity, which was validated with competitive ATP binding. Inhibition of EGFR and MET by Ecn decreases the phosphorylation of downstream target proteins ERBB3, AKT and ERK compared with total protein expression or control. Ecn induced the G2/M cell cycle arrest, and apoptosis via the intrinsic pathway of caspase-dependent activation. Ecn induced ROS production and GRP78, CHOP, DR5 and DR4 expression as well as depolarized the mitochondria membrane potential. Therefore, our results suggest that Ecn is a promising therapeutic agent in NSCLC therapy.

Metabolomic Approach for Discrimination of Cultivation Age and Ripening Stage in Ginseng Berry Using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry

The purpose of this study was to analyze metabolic differences of ginseng berries according to cultivation age and ripening stage using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS)-based metabolomics method. Ginseng berries were harvested every week during five different ripening stages of three-year-old and four-year-old ginseng. Using identified metabolites, a random forest machine learning approach was applied to obtain predictive models for the classification of cultivation age or ripening stage. Principal component analysis (PCA) score plot showed a clear separation by ripening stage, indicating that continuous metabolic changes occurred until the fifth ripening stage. Three-year-old ginseng berries had higher levels of valine, glutamic acid, and tryptophan, but lower levels of lactic acid and galactose than four-year-old ginseng berries at fully ripened stage. Metabolic pathways affected by different cultivation age were involved in amino acid metabolism pathways. A random forest machine learning approach extracted some important metabolites for predicting cultivation age or ripening stage with low error rate. This study demonstrates that different cultivation ages or ripening stages of ginseng berry can be successfully discriminated using a GC-MS-based metabolomic approach together with random forest analysis.

Effects of Harvest Time on Phytochemical Constituents and Biological Activities of Panax ginseng Berry Extracts

Ginseng (Panax ginseng) has long been used as a traditional medicine for the prevention and treatment of various diseases. Generally, the harvest time and age of ginseng have been regarded as important factors determining the efficacy of ginseng. However, most studies have mainly focused on the root of ginseng, while studies on other parts of ginseng such as its berry have been relatively limited. Thus, the aim of this study iss to determine effects of harvest time on yields, phenolics/ginsenosides contents, and the antioxidant/anti-elastase activities of ethanol extracts of three- and four-year-old ginseng berry. In both three- and fourfour-year-old ginseng berry extracts, antioxidant and anti-elastase activities tended to increase as berries ripen from the first week to the last week of July. Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry analysis has revealed that contents of ginsenosides except Rg1 tend to be the highest in fourfour-year-old ginseng berries harvested in early July. These results indicate that biological activities and ginsenoside profiles of ginseng berry extracts depend on their age and harvest time in July, suggesting the importance of harvest time in the development of functional foods and medicinal products containing ginseng berry extracts. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on the influence of harvest time on the biological activity and ginsenoside contents of ginseng berry extracts.

Tyrosinase Inhibition Antioxidant Effect and Cytotoxicity Studies of the Extracts of Cudrania tricuspidata Fruit Standardized in Chlorogenic Acid

In the present study, various extracts of C. tricuspidata fruit were prepared with varying ethanol contents and evaluated for their biomarker and biological properties. The 80% ethanolic extract showed the best tyrosinase inhibitory activity, while the 100% ethanolic extract showed the best total phenolics and flavonoids contents. The HPLC method was applied to analyze the chlorogenic acid in C. tricuspidata fruit extracts. The results suggest that the observed antioxidant and tyrosinase inhibitory activity of C. tricuspidata fruit extract could partially be attributed to the presence of marker compounds in the extract. In this study, we present an analytical method for standardization and optimization of C. tricuspidata fruit preparations. Further investigations are warranted to confirm the in vivo pharmacological activity of C. tricuspidata fruit extract and its active constituents and assess the safe use of the plant for the potential development of the extract as a skin depigmentation agent.

Effects of lobetyolin on xanthine oxidase activity in vitro and in vivo: weak and mixed inhibition

Lobetyolin (LBT), a general marker compound mainly found in Codonopsis plants including C. pilosula, C. tubulosa, and C. lanceolata, exhibits antitumor, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, mucosal protective, and antioxidant activities. Xanthine oxidase (XO) catalyzes the formation of uric acid from xanthine, a critical metabolic pathway related to hyperuricemia and gout. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of LBT on XO activity and its mechanism using in vitro enzyme assay system and in vivo potassium oxonate-induced hyperuricemic mice. LBT was found to weakly inhibit XO activity via a mixed type mechanism. Consistently, the impact of 1-week oral LBT treatment on serum XO activity in vivo is limited in hyperuricemic mice. However, oral LBT at 50 mg/kg significantly reduced hepatic XO activity in vivo. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to report effects of LBT on XO activity and its inhibition mechanism.

Camellia japonica oil suppressed asthma occurrence via GATA-3 & IL-4 pathway and its effective and major component is oleic acid

BACKGROUND

In December 2016, WHO released a report stating that in 2015 there were 383,000 deaths caused by asthma and 235 million people suffering from asthma. As there are many adverse effects associated with the currently-used asthma drugs, new anti-asthmatic drugs need to be developed.

PURPOSE

In order to find new drug candidates with safe and low side effects, the anti-asthmatic function and mechanism of C. japonica oil were evaluated, and its active ingredients were analyzed for use in an ovalbumin asthma murine model.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

The study consisted of six groups: control; ovalbumin group; and dexamethasone group as a positive control; and 10, 100, and 500 mg/kg C. japonica oil treatment groups. In order to measure the anti-asthmatic effect of C. japonica oil, WBC and differential cell count in BALF, IgE in serum, morphological changes in pulmonary system, and gene and protein levels such as IFN-γ, IL-12p40, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-6 were all evaluated.

RESULTS

C. japonica oil had an anti-asthmatic effect and significantly controlled eosinophil in BALF, Th2-related factors such as GATA-3 that is Th2 cell transcription factor, IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13, and TNF-α in the lung. It also dose-dependently modulated inflammatory cells, T-bet, IL-12p40, and IL-6. Oleci acid was the major gradient (52.89%) in C. japonica oil and also had anti-asthmatic effects such as the downregulation of inflammatory cells, WBC, and eosinophil in BALF, IgE in serum, and morphological changes in the lung.

CONCLUSION

We concluded that C. japonica oil is a new anti-asthmatic drug candidate and that oleic acid is the major anti-asthmatic ingredient in C. japonica oil.

Abstract P4-08-09: DNA methylation markers predict recurrence-free interval in triple-negative breast cancer

BACKGROUND. Chemotherapy remains the treatment mainstay for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Nevertheless, randomized trials have shown that not all TNBC require it, nor does it benefit all patients that receive it. Molecular tools to risk-stratify TNBC are currently lacking. In light of the importance of epigenetic processes modulating gene expression, we performed an array-based genome-wide DNA methylation search in well-documented institutional and clinical trial cohorts of TNBC for markers that can distinguish breast cancers with a favorable natural history from those with a high risk of recurrence.

METHODS. We performed an array-based genome-wide DNA methylation survey of well-documented institutional and clinical trial cohorts of TNBC and conducted molecular marker discovery on institutional TNBCs (115 patient samples; 53 recurrences) treated by locoregional therapy (LRT) alone. The identified hypermethylated gene signatures were then tested in a TNBC cohort (50 patient samples; 16 recurrences) from the no chemotherapy arms of IBCSG trials VIII and IX, and in a separate combined cohort of TNBCs (131 patient samples; 33 recurrences) treated with chemotherapy from an institutional repository and from IBCSG trials VIII and IX. Cross platform validation was conducted using quantitative multiplexed methylation specific PCR (QM-MSP) on hypermethylated markers in samples from both the Discovery Set and IBCSG LRT Test Set.

RESULTS. We identified methylation signatures in the discovery cohort consisting of 100 or 30 CpG probes that discriminated patients who remained recurrence-free from those with recurrent disease. These signatures were then tested in the IBCSG no chemotherapy cohort, and we found that hypermethylation was associated with shorter recurrence-free interval (RFI). A significant association of both 100 CpG (P&lt;0.0001) and 30 CpG (P=0.0021) signatures with shorter RFI was found in the combined institutional and IBCSG chemotherapy cohort. We observed an enrichment of methylation probes residing on chromosome 19, particularly within 19q13.41-43, that significantly correlated with RFI following chemotherapy. QM-MSP results reflected that of the methylation array [Spearman correlation coefficient of r = 0.495 (P = 0.0009)] indicating that the relationship between high methylation and short RFI is detectable independent of analytical platform. We also observed enrichment for Chromosome 19-specific probes within the 100 and 30 probe sets. While only 5% of all CpG markers are located within Chr19, 15% of the 100 CpG set, 37% of the 30 CpG set, and 47% of the 17 CpGs that are statistically significantly correlated with RFI in the chemotherapy group reside on the Chr19, mostly within 19q13.41-43.

CONCLUSIONS. Methylation markers may be of prognostic importance in TNBC and our findings should be validated in additional clinical trial cohorts.

Citation Format: Fackler MJ, Cho SS, Cope LM, Gabrielson E, Wilsbach K, Lynch C, Marks JR, Geradts J, Regan MM, Viale G, Wolff AC, Umbricht CB, Sukumar S. DNA methylation markers predict recurrence-free interval in triple-negative breast cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2018 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2018 Dec 4-8; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2019;79(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P4-08-09.

JAK2 regulation by licochalcone H inhibits the cell growth and induces apoptosis in oral squamous cell carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Licochalconce (LC) H is an artificial compound in the course of synthesizing LCC in 2013. So far, few studies on the effects of LCH have been found in the literature. Despite progress in treatment modalities for oral cancer, the cure from cancer has still limitations.

PURPOSE

The effects of LCH were investigated on human oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) cells to elucidate its mechanisms.

STUDY DESIGN

We explored the mechanism of action of LCH by which it could have effects on JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway.

METHODS

To confirm LCH anti-cancer effect, analyzed were MTT assay, DAPI staining, soft agar, kinase assay, molecular docking simulation, flow cytometry and Western blotting analysis.

RESULTS

According to docking and molecular dynamics simulations, the predicted pose of the complex LCH and JAK2 seems reasonable and LCH is strongly bound to active JAK2 with opened activation loop. The LCH inhibitor is surrounded by specific ATP-binding pocket in which it is stabilized by forming hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions. It is shown that LCH plays as a competitive inhibitor in an active state of JAK2. LCH caused a dose-dependent decrease in phosphorylation of JAK2 and STAT3. More interestingly, LCH suppressed JAK2 kinase activity in vitro by its direct binding to the JAK2. LCH significantly inhibited the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway, causing the down-regulation of target genes such as Bcl-2, survivin, cyclin D1, p21 and p27. In addition, LCH inhibited cell proliferation and colony formation of OSCC cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner, as well as induction of cell apoptosis through extrinsic and intrinsic pathway. The induction of apoptosis in OSCC cells by LCH was evident in the increased production of ROS, loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, release of cyto c, variation of apoptotic proteins and activation of caspase cascade.

CONCLUSION

LCH not only induces apoptosis in OSCC cells through the JAK/STAT3 signaling pathway but also inhibits cell growth. It is proposed that LCH has a promising use for the chemotherapeutic agent of oral cancer.

Phytochemical Constituents and the Evaluation Biological Effect of Cinnamomum yabunikkei H.Ohba Leaf

Cinnamomum yabunikkei H.Ohba leaf is known as a traditional medicinal material in Korea. However, no scientific identification of the components or efficacy of C.yabunikkei H.Ohba leaf has been reported. In the present study, we prepared various solvent extracts of C.yabunikkei H.Ohba leaf to understand its basic properties and evaluated the antioxidant, xanthine oxidase inhibitory, and elastase inhibitory activities of hexane, ethyl acetate, acetone, methanol, ethanol, and water extracts for the first time. The antioxidant properties were evaluated based on 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging activity, reducing power, and total phenolic contents. The hot water extract showed the highest DPPH radical scavenging activity and total phenolic contents, and the reducing power was the highest in the water extract. The hexane extract showed an excellent elastase inhibitory effect compared to control (phosphoramidone) and the highest xanthine oxidase inhibitory activity. These results present basic information for the possible uses of the hot water and hexane extracts from C. yabunikkei leaf for the treatment of diseases caused by oxidative imbalance. In the present study, individual extracts exhibited different effects. Therefore, it is hypothesized that the applicability of C. yabunikkei will depend on the extraction method and nature of the extract. The hot water and hexane extracts could be used as antioxidants, and as anti-gout and anti-wrinkle materials respectively. Several biologically active substances present in hexane extract of C. yabunikkei have been analyzed by GCMS and demonstrated to possess antioxidant and xanthine oxidase inhibitory activity. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study that reports the chemical profiling and biological effects of various C. yabunikkei leaf extracts, suggesting their potential use in food therapy, cosmetics or alternative medicine.

Licochalcone H induces the apoptosis of human oral squamous cell carcinoma cells via regulation of matrin 3

Licochalcone H (LCH) is a chemical compound that is a positional isomer of licochalcone C (LCC), a chalconoid isolated from the root of Glycyrrhiza inflata, which has various pharmacological properties including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antitumor, and anticancer effects. However, the efficacy of LCH on cancer cells has not been investigated. The present study examined the effects of LCH on cell proliferation, induction of apoptosis, and the regulation of matrin 3 (Matr3) protein in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) cells by Annexin V/propidium iodide (PI) staining and western blot analysis. LCH reduced cell viability and colony forming ability, and induced cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in HSC2 and HSC3 cells through the suppression of Matr3. It was also found that LCH directly bound to Matr3 in a Sepharose 4B pull-down assay. Consequently, the results of the present study suggest that LCH may be used as an anticancer drug in combination with conventional chemotherapy for the treatment of OSCC, and that Matr3 may be a potential effective therapeutic target.

Licochalcone C induced apoptosis in human oral squamous cell carcinoma cells by regulation of the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway

Oral cancer is of an aggressive malignancy that arises on oral cavity and lip, 90% of cancers histologically originated in the squamous cells. Licochalcone (LC)C has been known as natural phenolic chalconoid substances, and its origin is the root of Glycyrrhiza glabra or Glycyrrhiza inflata. LCC inhibited oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) cell viability, mitochondrial function, and anchorage-independent growth in a dose-dependent manner. To investigate the ability of LCC to target Janus kinase 2 (JAK2), we performed pull-down binding assay, kinase assay, and docking simulation. The molecular docking studies were performed between JAK2 and the potent inhibitor LCC. It was shown that LCC tightly interacted with ATP-binding site of JAK2. In addition, LCC inhibited the JAK2/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 pathway, upregulated p21, and downregulated Bcl-2, Mcl-1, and Survivin, while it disrupted mitochondrial membrane potential and subsequently caused cytochrome c release with activation of multi-caspase, eventually leading to apoptosis in HN22 and HSC4 cells. LCC elevated the protein levels of Bax, cleaved Bid and PARP, and increased Apaf-1, and this effect was reversed by LCC treatment. Our results demonstrated that treatment of OSCC cells with LCC induced the death receptor (DR)4 and DR5 expression level with the generation of reactive oxygen species and the upregulation of CHOP protein expression. Taken together, these results could provide the basis for clinical application as a new therapeutic strategy in the treatment of oral cancer.

Licochalcone D directly targets JAK2 to induced apoptosis in human oral squamous cell carcinoma

Licochalcone (LC) families have been reported to have a wide range of biological function such as antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral, and anticancer effects. Although various beneficial effects of LCD were revealed, its anticancer effect in human oral squamous cancer has not been identified. To examine the signaling pathway of LCD's anticancer effect, we determined whether LCD has physical interaction with Janus kinase (JAK2)/signal transducer and activator of transcription-3 (STAT3) signaling, which is critical in promoting cancer cell survival and proliferation. Our results demonstrated that LCD inhibited the kinase activity of JAK2, soft agar colony formation, and the proliferation of HN22 and HSC4 cells. LCD also induced mitochondrial apoptotic events such as altered mitochondrial membrane potential and reactive oxygen species production. LCD increased the expression of apoptosis-associated proteins in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) cells. Finally, the xenograft study showed that LCD significantly inhibited HN22 tumor growth. Immunohistochemical data supported that LCD suppressed p-JAK2 and p-STAT3 expression and induced cleaved-caspase-3 expression. These results indicate that the anticancer effect of LCD is due to the direct targeting of JAK2 kinase. Therefore, LCD can be used for therapeutic application against OSCC.

Immune-Stimulating Effects of Mycoleptodonoides aitchisonii (Agaricomycetes) Water Extract via TNF-α and IFN-γ

Mycoleptodonoides aitchisonii has been used as culinary material in East Asia. We previously reported the antiasthmatic effect of M. aitchisonii; in this study we evaluated the mushroom's immune-stimulating effects. To analyze these effects, we conducted an in vitro study with splenocytes and an in vivo study with the Porsolt enforced swim test. In the in vitro study, the cell proliferation effect of the M. aitchisonii water extract (WT) was measured and the in vivo study depended on the dose of M. aitchisonii WT and the effect on swimming duration; several immune reaction-related factors were assessed, such as white blood cell count, differential cell count, the ratio of thymus or spleen weight to body weight, and concentrations of some cytokines in serum. Almost all measured factors that are related to immune stimulation were dose-dependently increased, such as the number of splenocytes and monocytes, the swimming duration, the relative weight of the thymus, and the expression of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interferon (IFN)-γ. Based on the results, we conclude that M. aitchisonii WT has an immune-stimulating effect via TNF-α and IFN-γ, and that M. aitchisonii WT is an immune-stimulating agent and can be produced as a functional food.

Molecular Discrimination of Cynanchum wilfordii and Cynanchum auriculatum by InDel Markers of Chloroplast DNA

The tuber of Cynanchum wilfordii (Baekshuoh Radix in Korean) is an important medicinal herb in Korea and China; however, it is difficult to differentiate C. wilfordii from a related medicinal herb, C. auriculatum (Baishouwu Radix in Chinese). We sought to develop a molecular method that could be used to distinguish between the tubers of C. wilfordii and C. auriculatum. We aligned the chloroplast genome sequences (available in the NCBI database) of the two species and identified three species-specific insertion and deletion (InDel) sites in the trnQ-psbK, rps2-rpoC2, and psaJ-rpl33 intergenic spacer (IGS) regions. To confirm the presence of these three InDels and validate their use as markers, we designed three primer pairs to amplify the trnQ-psbK, rps2-rpoC2, and psaJ-rpl33 IGS regions. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification of the trnQ-psbK IGS region yielded a 249 bp fragment for C. wilfordii, and 419 bp fragment for C. auriculatum, whereas the rps2-rpoC2 IGS primers produced a 629 bp fragment from C. wilfordii and a 282 bp fragment from C. auriculatum. In the psaJ-rpl33 IGS region, allele fragments of 342 and 360 bp in length were amplified from C. wilfordii, whereas 249 and 250 bp fragment were amplified from C. auriculatum. We propose these three InDel markers as a valuable, simple, and efficient tool for identifying these medicinal herbs and will thus reduce adulteration of these herbal materials in commercial markets.

Hot-water extract of the branches of Hovenia dulcis Thunb. (Rhamnaceae) ameliorates low-fiber diet-induced constipation in rats

Hovenia dulcis Thunb. (Rhamnaceae), also known as oriental raisin tree, is used in traditional herbal medicine. Its extracts have been reported to show various pharmacological effects such as hepatoprotection, antitumor, antiatopic dermatitis, antilipid peroxidation, anti-steatotic, anti-inflammatory, and antiallergic activities. However, there have been no reports on the effect of H. dulcis extracts in relieving constipation so far. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of a hot-water extract of the branches of H. dulcis (WEHD) on low-fiber diet-induced constipation in Sprague Dawley rats. The in vivo laxative activity of WEHD was assessed by measuring the intestinal transit of charcoal meal and stool parameters. Furthermore, the in vitro spasmogenic activity of WEHD was evaluated by monitoring the temporal profiles of contraction of rat colon in the absence or presence of WEHD. In addition, constituent profiling was conducted using high-performance liquid chromatography analysis. Pretreatment with WEHD significantly enhanced the intestinal transit of charcoal meal and increased the frequency and weight of stools in rats. In addition, the frequency and amplitude of contractile responses of isolated rat colon were markedly enhanced by WEHD. Two organic phenolic acids, ferulic and vanillic acids, were identified in WEHD, of which vanillic acid exhibited spasmogenic activity. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to report the laxative and spasmogenic activities of H. dulcis and its constituents, suggesting that WEHD can serve as a complementary and/or alternative laxative in alleviating chronic constipation.

Oridonin induces apoptosis in oral squamous cell carcinoma probably through the generation of reactive oxygen species and the p38/JNK MAPK pathway

The anti-inflammatory effects of oridonin (Ordn) have been well established in previous studies. However, the apoptotic effects of Ordn on oral cancer cells have not yet been evaluated, at least to the best of our knowledge. The aim of this study was to examine the apoptotic activity of Ordn in oral squamous cell carcinoma cells and to eluciudate the underlying mechanisms. For this purpose, we employed experimental techniques, such as MTT assay, DAPI staining, soft agar assay, flow cytometry and western blot analysis. Our results revealed that Ordn suppressed oral cancer cell proliferation and soft agar colony formation, while it induced reactive oxygen species (ROS)-dependent apoptosis in a dose or time-dependent manner. The generation of ROS was detected in HN22 and HSC4 cells treated with Ordn and the use of the free radical scavenger, N-acetyl-L-cysteine, almost blocked Ordn-induced apoptosis. The phosphorylation of JNK and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) was manifested in the Ordn-treated cells. Furthermore, Ordn induced the apoptosis of oral cancer cells through the mitochondrial-dependent pathway, involving the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, the release of cytochrome c, the induction of poly(ADP-Ribose) polymerase (PARP) cleavage, alterations in the ratios of apoptotic proteins and the activation of the caspase cascade. Taken together, these findings indicate that Ordn induces the apoptosis of oral cancer cells probably via ROS-mediated JNK/p38 MAPK and mitochondrial pathways; thus, Ordn may have potential for use in the treatment of oral cancer.

Optimized Extract from Corylopsis coreana Uyeki (Hamamelidaceae) Flos Inhibits Osteoclast Differentiation

Osteoporosis is a metabolic disorder that decreases the stability against fractures of the spine, femur, and radius by weakening the strength and integrity of bones. Receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappa B ligand signaling ultimately activated nuclear factor-activated T cells c1, a major transcription factor for osteoclast formation. This study researched the effects of Corylopsis coreana (C. coreana) Uyeki flos extracts on the antiosteoclastic potential of macrophages and the phytochemicals contained therein. The alcoholic extract of C. coreana Uyeki flos inhibited the differentiation of osteoclast. We carried out the experiments of the pattern of differentiation of osteoclasts based on the alcoholic percentage of extracts. Among them, 80% alcoholic extract showed the highest inhibitory effect. The alcoholic extract was composed of phytochemicals such as bergenin, quercetin, and quercitrin. This extract inhibited not only mRNA expression levels of NFATc1, osteoclast-associated receptor (OSCAR), cathepsin K, and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP), but also the translational expression of NFATc1. The inhibitory effect for osteoclast differentiation of the alcoholic extract was confirmed using the resorption pit assay. This is the first scientific report of the antiosteoclastic effects of C. coreana Uyeki flos extract, which can be applied therapeutically for the treatment of osteoporosis.

Broad Spectrum Antimicrobial Activity of Licochalcones A and E against MDR (Multidrug Resistant) Strains of Clinical Origin

The aim of this study was to evaluate the antibacterial activity of the licochalcones A (1) and E (2) against drug resistant strains of clinical origin. The results indicate that the licochalcones had a broad inhibitory activity against tested bacteria. Compared to vancomycin and teicoplanin, these compounds provided weaker activity against non-MDR Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus but broader activity against MRSA and VRE strains. The results provide promising baseline information for the potential use of 1 and 2 from Glycyrrhiza inflata in the treatment of drug resistant bacterial infections.

Quantitative Analysis, Extraction Optimization, and Biological Evaluation of Cudrania tricuspidata Leaf and Fruit Extracts

Cudrania tricuspidata Bureau (Moraceae) shows numerous pharmacological effects and has been used in traditional herbal remedies for inflammation, gastritis, tumors, and liver diseases. However, no validated analytical method for the standardization and optimization of the biological properties of C. tricuspidata preparations has been reported. We developed and validated a reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method for the separation and quantification of active markers. Ethanolic extracts of C. tricuspidata leaves were prepared and evaluated for chemical profiles and biological activities. The 80% ethanolic extract demonstrated the greatest antioxidant activity and phenolic content, while the 100% ethanolic extract had the greatest total flavonoid content and xanthine oxidase (XO) inhibitory activity. The validated HPLC method confirmed that chlorogenic acid, rutin, and kaempferol were present in C. tricuspidata leaf extracts. We postulated that the antioxidant and anti-hyperuricemic/gout effects of C. tricuspidata extract could be attributed to these marker compounds. Our results suggested that the flavonoid-rich fraction of the leaf extract may be utilized for the treatment and prevention of hyperuricemia-related diseases, and the validated method and marker compounds could be applied for the quality control of C. tricuspidata preparations.