Licochalcone A induces endoplasmic reticulum stress-mediated apoptosis of endometrial cancer cells via upregulation of GRP78 expression

Licochalcone A (LicA), a natural compound extracted from licorice root, has been shown to exert a variety of anticancer activities. Whether LicA has such effects on endometrial cancer (EMC) is unclear. This study aims to investigate the antitumor effects of LicA on EMC. Our results show that LicA significantly reduced the viability and induced apoptosis of EMC cells and EMC-7 cells from EMC patients. LicA was also found to induce endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, leading to increased expression of ER-related proteins (GRP78/PERK/IRE1α/CHOP) in EMC cell lines. Suppression of GRP78 expression in human EMC cells treated with LicA significantly attenuated the effects of LicA, resulting in reduced ER-stress mediated cell apoptosis and decreased expression of ER- and apoptosis-related proteins. Our findings demonstrate that LicA induces apoptosis in EMC cells through the GRP78-mediated ER-stress pathway, emphasizing the potential of LicA as an anticancer therapy for EMC.

Hinokitiol Inhibits Breast Cancer Cells In Vitro Stemness-Progression and Self-Renewal with Apoptosis and Autophagy Modulation via the CD44/Nanog/SOX2/Oct4 Pathway

Breast cancer (BC) represents one of the most prevalent malignant threats to women globally. Tumor relapse or metastasis is facilitated by BC stemness progression, contributing to tumorigenicity. Therefore, comprehending the characteristics of stemness progression and the underlying molecular mechanisms is pivotal for BC advancement. Hinokitiol (β-thujaplicin), a tropolone-related compound abundant in the heartwood of cupressaceous plants, exhibits antimicrobial activity. In our study, we employed three BC cell lines (MDA-MB-231, MCF-7, and T47D) to assess the expression of stemness-, apoptosis-, and autophagy-related proteins. Hinokitiol significantly reduced the viability of cancer cells in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, we observed that hinokitiol enhances apoptosis by increasing the levels of cleaved poly-ADP-ribose polymerase (PARP) and phospho-p53. It also induces dysfunction in autophagy through the upregulation of LC3B and p62 protein expression. Additionally, hinokitiol significantly suppressed the number and diameter of cancer cell line spheres by reducing the expression of cluster of differentiation44 (CD44) and key transcription factors. These findings underscore hinokitiol's potential as a therapeutic agent for breast cancer, particularly as a stemness-progression inhibitor. Further research and clinical studies are warranted to explore the full therapeutic potential of hinokitiol in the treatment of breast cancer.

Arecoline Induces ROS Accumulation, Transcription of Proinflammatory Factors, and Expression of KRT6 in Oral Epithelial Cells

Areca nut is a major contributor to the high prevalence of oral cancer in Asia. The precise mechanisms by which areca nut stimulates mucosal cells and contributes to the progression of oral cancer urgently require clarification. The current study aimed to assess the effects of arecoline on the normal human gingival epithelium cell line S-G. Cell viability, levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), protein expression, cellular morphology, and gene expression were evaluated using the MTT test, flow cytometry, Western blot analysis, optical or confocal microscopy, and RT-qPCR. Keratin (KRT6) analysis involved matched normal and cancer tissues from clinical head and neck specimens. The results demonstrated that 12.5 µg/mL of arecoline induced ROS production, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) mRNA expression in S-G cells. This activation of the MAPK/ERK pathway increased KRT6 expression while limiting cell migration. In head and neck cancer tissues, KRT6B gene expression exceeded that of normal tissues. This study confirms that arecoline induces ROS accumulation in normal cells, leading to the secretion of proinflammatory factors and KRT6 expression. This impedes oral mucosal healing, thereby promoting the progression of oral cancer.

Alleviating 3-MCPD-induced male reproductive toxicity: Mechanistic insights and resveratrol intervention

3-Monochloropropane-1, 2-diol (3-MCPD), a food-borne contaminant, is widely regarded as the primary cause of male infertility. At present, identifying a method to improve/reduce the male reproductive toxicity caused by 3-MCPD is important. In our study, we explored the potential application of resveratrol (RSV) in mitigating the adverse effects of 3-MCPD. Using 7-week-old Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats as animal models, we investigated the impacts and underlying mechanisms of 3-MCPD and RSV on reproductive function. The administration of 3-MCPD led to significant reductions in testicular and epididymal weights, as well as disruptions in spermatogenesis and histological abnormalities. However, co-treatment with RSV and 3-MCPD mitigated these adverse effects. In vitro study, RSV exhibited the ability to reverse the decline in Leydig and Sertoli cell populations inflicted by 3-MCPD treatment. Mechanistically, RSV reduced endoplasmic reticulum stress (PARP), inflammasome activation (NLRP3), and autophagy-mediated lysosome dysfunction (p62 and LC3BII) induced by 3-MCPD. In addition, 3-MCPD treatment increased the expression level of steroidogenesis-related proteins, steroidogenic acute regulatory (StAR) and CYP11A1, but RSV normalized StAR expression. Moreover, 3-MCPD-induced pro-inflammatory responses were counteracted by RSV treatment, with the cytokine reduction and modulation of CD206 expression, a marker of macrophage activation. These findings indicate that RSV attenuates 3-MCPD-induced reproductive toxicity, highlighting its application potential as an adjuvant agent for male reproductive health.

Combining microfluidic chip and low-attachment culture devices to isolate oral cancer stem cells

Background/purpose

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are widely recognized as key drivers of cancer initiation, progression, and therapeutic resistance. Microfluidic chip technology offers a promising approach for CSC isolation and study. This study investigated the efficacy of a microfluidic chip-based method for isolating single cells from oral cancer cell lines characterized by high stem-like phenotypes. Specifically, the study focused on examining the sphere-forming capability and the expression of CSC markers, including aldehyde dehydrogenase 1A1 (ALDH1A1), CD44, and CD133, in isolated cell clones from OECM-1 and SAS cell lines.

Materials and methods

Oral cancer cell lines were subjected to isolation using a microfluidic chip. The captured single cells were cultured to assess their sphere-forming capacity in ultra-low binding culture. Furthermore, the protein expression levels of ALDH1A1, CD44, and CD133 in the isolated cell clones were analyzed using western blotting.

Results

The microfluidic chip-assisted isolation method significantly enhanced the sphere-forming capability of both OECM-1 and SAS cell clones compared to their parent cell lines. Moreover, the expression levels of CSC markers ALDH1A1, CD44, and CD133 were upregulated in the microfluidic chip-assisted isolated cell clones, indicating a higher stem-like phenotype.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates the effectiveness of the microfluidic chip-based approach in isolating oral cancer cell clones with elevated stem-like characteristics. This method offers a valuable tool for further investigation of CSCs and their role in cancer progression, as well as future therapy development for oral cancers.

Association of higher transient receptor potential melastatin 8 expression with higher tumor histologic grades, lymph node metastasis, risk factors, and worse survival in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

Background/purpose

Transient receptor potential melastatin 8 (TRPM8), a thermosensitive ion channel known for its role in cold sensation and menthol response, has emerged as a potential regulator in various cancers. This study aimed to investigate expression trends of TRPM8 in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) cases and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) cell lines and its association with clinicopathological features.

Materials and methods

The noncancerous matched tissues and HNSCC paired tissue samples from 84 HNSCC patients were utilized to evaluate the association of TRPM8 with HNSCC clinicopathological features. TRPM8 expression was examined in HNSCC patient tissues and OSCC cell lines treated with arecoline.

Results

Kaplan-Meier survival analysis of TCGA data revealed high TRPM8 expression correlated with unfavorable outcomes and higher tumor histologic grades. TRPM8 mRNA expression was upregulated in HNSCC cell lines and patients' tissue samples. Arecoline treatment led to significantly increased TRPM8 mRNA and protein expression in OSCC cell lines. Lymph node metastasis showed a significant association with upregulated TRPM8 expression in combined OSCC and oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) cases. TRPM8 mRNA expression was upregulated in HNSCC and OSCC patients with alcohol drinking and cigarette smoking habits, but not in betel quid chewing.

Conclusion

These findings reveal the involvement of TRPM8 in HNSCC's malignant development and metastasis, suggesting that high expression of TRMP8 may be mutually causal with addiction to tobacco, alcohol, and betel nut in HNSCC patients. Further investigations are needed to determine the underlying pathways of TRPM8 in HNSCC's development and progression.

Hinokitiol as a modulator of TLR4 signaling and apoptotic pathways in atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis (AD) poses a significant global health challenge, characterized by dysregulated inflammation and apoptotic processes. This study explores the therapeutic efficacy of hinokitiol, employing a comprehensive in vivo and in vitro approach. Assessment of inflammation-related markers in the animal model included observation of physical appearance, Western blotting, ELISA, and H&E staining. Additionally, the cell culture model enabled the evaluation of apoptosis and ROS levels using MTT assay, crystal violet staining, Western blot, and DCFDA assays. The results revealed hinokitiol's proficiency in ameliorating ear and skin morphology in the DNCB-induced AD model, mediated through the TLR4/MyD88 pathway. Notably, hinokitiol intervention led to a reduction in both M1 and M2 macrophage phenotypes. In vitro investigations demonstrated hinokitiol's ability to enhance cell viability and morphology under TNF-α and IFN-γ induction. Mechanistically, hinokitiol exhibited regulatory effects on apoptosis-related proteins, including Bax, Cytochrome c, Caspase-3, and PARP, thereby averting cellular damage. These findings suggest that hinokitiol is a promising natural compound with significant potential for alleviating inflammation and apoptosis in AD, indicating potential avenues for future therapeutic developments.

Current and Emerging Treatment Options for Uterine Fibroids

Uterine fibroids are the most common benign neoplasm of the female reproductive tract in reproductive age women. Their prevalence is age dependent and can be detected in up to 80% of women by the age of 50 years. Patients affected by uterine fibroids may experience a significant physical, emotional, social, and financial toll as well as losses in their quality of life. Unfortunately, curative hysterectomy abolishes future pregnancy potential, while uterine-sparing surgical and radiologic alternatives are variously associated with reduced long-term reproductive function and/or high tumor recurrence rates. Recently, pharmacological treatment against uterine fibroids have been widely considered by patients to limit uterine fibroid-associated symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding. This hormonal therapy seemed effective through blocking the stimulatory effects of gonadal steroid hormones on uterine fibroid growth. However, they are contraindicated in women actively pursuing pregnancy and otherwise effective only during use, which is limited because of long-term safety and other concerns. Accordingly, there is an urgent unmet need for safe, durable, and fertility-compatible non-surgical treatment options for uterine fibroids. In this review article, we cover the current pharmacological treatments for uterine fibroids including their comparable efficacy and side effects as well as emerging safe natural compounds with promising anti-uterine fibroid effects.

Para-toluenesulfonamide, a novel potent carbonic anhydrase inhibitor, improves hypoxia-induced metastatic breast cancer cell viability and prevents resistance to αPD-1 therapy in triple-negative breast cancer

Overexpression of the hypoxia-induced transmembrane enzyme carbonic anhydrase IX (CA9) has been associated with poor prognosis and chemoresistance in aggressive breast cancer. This study aimed to investigate the involvement of CA9 in the anti-tumor activity of para-toluenesulfonamide (PTS) and elucidate its mechanism of action against breast cancer both in vitro and in vivo. MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells were treated with PTS or subjected to hypoxic conditions using cobalt chloride (CoCl2), with acetazolamide serving as a positive control. Additionally, 4T1 breast cancer cell allograft mice were co-treated with PTS and α-programmed cell death 1 (αPD-1) monoclonal antibody for one month. The results demonstrated that PTS effectively reduced cell viability and reversed migration ability in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells under CoCl2-induced hypoxia. Furthermore, PTS upregulated the expression of apoptosis-related proteins and downregulated CA9, hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) proteins, possibly through modulation of p38 MAPK and ERK1/2 phosphorylated proteins. In the animal model, PTS100 inhibited tumor growth and lung metastasis in mammary tumor allograft mice, exhibiting synergistic effects when combined with αPD-1 therapy. Collectively, our findings suggest that PTS inhibits breast cancer growth and metastasis through the p38 MAPK/ERK1/2 pathway. Moreover, PTS may have the potential to prevent the development of resistance to αPD-1 therapy in breast cancer.

Caffeic acid's role in mitigating polycystic ovary syndrome by countering apoptosis and ER stress triggered by oxidative stress

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex endocrine disorder that affects women of reproductive age, characterized by androgen-induced oxidative stress leading to several metabolic disorders. In this study, we investigated the potential therapeutic effect of caffeic acid on PCOS and its underlying molecular mechanism. We used a human ovarian granulosa cell line (KGN cells) induced by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) to examine how caffeic acid influences the protein expression of oxidative stress-induced apoptosis-related markers. Our results indicate that caffeic acid significantly inhibits intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and safeguards KGN cells against oxidative stress. For the in vivo aspect of our study, female Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were utilized to induce the PCOS model using dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). Caffeic acid was then administered to the rats for a duration of 6 weeks. The outcomes revealed that caffeic acid effectively improved irregular estrous cycles, fasting blood glucose levels, liver function, and lipid profiles in DHEA-induced PCOS rats. Additionally, it mitigated hyperandrogenism, enhanced steroidogenesis enzyme expression, and modulated apoptosis-related protein expression. Our findings strongly suggest that caffeic acid holds promising potential in reducing oxidative stress-induced damage and ameliorating PCOS-related complications by modulating ER stress.

Allyl isothiocyanate mitigates airway inflammation and constriction in a house dust mite-induced allergic asthma model via upregulation of tight junction proteins and the TRPA1 modulation

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease that has been associated with insufficient vegetable intake. Allyl Isothiocyanate (AITC) is a natural isothiocyanate found in cruciferous plants with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant abilities. Our study aimed to investigate the potential effect of AITC on tracheal constriction in a house dust mite (HDM)-induced asthma animal model, and explore the underlying mechanisms. To investigate the effects of AITC on HDM-induced allergic asthma model, established by intranasally administering extracts of HDM and AITC or DEX was given orally for four weeks. Flexivent SCIREQ, H&E staining, ELISA were employed to evaluate the lung function and the cytokine secretion. Possible mechanisms were determined by Western blot. Rat tracheae contraction was measured by Labscribe. We utilized lung epithelial cells (BEAS-2B) to assess the adhesion response to the combination of inflammatory factors TNF-α and IL-4. The results of the study showed that AITC significantly reduced tracheal constriction in ex vivo experiments and improved lung function in in vivo experiments compared to HDM-induced mice. Additionally, AITC decreased cytokine secretion, inflammatory cell infiltration in the lung, and constriction-related proteins expression in both lung and tracheae. Moreover, AITC increased tight junction-related protein expression in lung tissues. In vitro experiments showed that AITC had a protective effect through TRPA1 channel without affecting cell viability. Our results demonstrate that AITC has potential anti-asthma effects in HDM-induced asthma models by alleviating airway inflammation and airway constriction through increasing tight junction-related protein expression and suppressing Ca2+ signaling. These findings suggest that AITC may be a beneficial adjuvant therapy in asthma treatment.

Oxidative stress mediates the inhibitory effects of Manzamine A on uterine leiomyoma cell proliferation and extracellular matrix deposition via SOAT inhibition

Uterine fibroids, the most common benign tumors of the myometrium in women, are characterized by abnormal extracellular matrix deposition and uterine smooth muscle cell neoplasia, with high recurrence rates. Here, we investigated the potential of the marine natural product manzamine A (Manz A), which has potent anti-cancer effects, as a treatment for uterine fibroids. Manz A inhibited leiomyoma cell proliferation in vitro and in vivo by arresting cell cycle progression and inducing caspase-mediated apoptosis. We performed target prediction analysis and identified sterol o-acyltransferases (SOATs) as potential targets of Manz A. Cholesterol esterification and lipid droplet formation were reduced by Manz A, in line with reduced SOAT expression. As a downstream target of SOAT, Manz A also prevented extracellular matrix deposition by inhibiting the β-catenin/fibronectin/metalloproteinases axis and enhanced autophagy turnover. Excessive free fatty acid accumulation by SOAT inhibition led to reactive oxygen species to impair mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation and trigger endoplasmic reticulum stress via PERK/eIF2α/CHOP signaling. The inhibitory effect of ManzA on cell proliferation was partially restored by PERK knockdown and eliminated by tauroursodeoxycholic acid, suggesting oxidative stress plays a critical role in the mechanism of action of Manz A. These findings suggest that targeting SOATs by Manz A may be a promising therapeutic approach for uterine fibroids.

Protective Effect of Electroacupuncture on Chemotherapy-Induced Salivary Gland Hypofunction in a Mouse Model

Radiotherapy and chemotherapy can impair salivary gland (SG) function, which causes xerostomia and exacerbate other side effects of chemotherapy and oral infection, reducing patients' quality of life. This animal study aimed to assess the efficacy of electroacupuncture (EA) as a means of preventing xerostomia induced by 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). A xerostomia mouse model was induced via four tail vein injections of 5-FU (80 mg/kg/dose). EA was performed at LI4 and LI11 for 7 days. The pilocarpine-stimulated salivary flow rate (SFR) and salivary glands weight (SGW) were recorded. Salivary immunoglobulin A (SIgA) and lysozyme were determined via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). SG was collected for hematoxylin and eosin staining to measure acini number and acinar cell size. Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and aquaporin 5 (AQP5) mRNA expressions in SG were quantified via RT-qPCR. 5-FU caused significant decreases in SFR, SGW, SIgA, lysozyme, AQP5 expression, and acini number, while TNF-α and IL-1β expressions and acinar cell size were significantly increased. EA treatment can prevent 5-FU damage to the salivary gland, while pilocarpine treatment can only elevate SFR and AQP5 expression. These findings provide significant evidence to support the use of EA as an alternative treatment for chemotherapy-induced salivary gland hypofunction and xerostomia.

Effect of Vitamin D Supplementation on Primary Dysmenorrhea: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials

Dysmenorrhea causes pain and inconvenience during menstruation. In addition to medication, natural compounds are widely used to relieve various types of pain. In this study, we aimed to assess the effects of vitamin D (vit. D) supplementation in relieving the symptoms of primary dysmenorrhea. A comprehensive systematic database search of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was performed. Oral forms of vit. D supplementation were included and compared with a placebo or standard care. The degree of dysmenorrhea pain was measured with a visual analogue scale or numerical rating scale. Outcomes were compared using the standardized mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) in a meta-analysis. RCTs were assessed using the Cochrane risk-of-bias v2 (RoB 2) tool. The meta-analysis included 8 randomized controlled trials involving 695 participants. The results of the quantitative analysis showed a significantly lower degree of pain in the vit. D versus placebo in those with dysmenorrhea (SMD: -1.404, 95% CI: -2.078 to -0.731). The results of subgroup analysis revealed that pain lessened when the average weekly dose of vit. D was over 50,000 IU, in which dysmenorrhea was relieved regardless of whether vit. D was administered for more or less than 70 days and in any dose interval. The results revealed that vit. D treatment substantially reduced the pain level in the primary dysmenorrhea population. We concluded that vit. D supplementation is an alternative treatment for relieving the pain symptoms of dysmenorrhea.

Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Ester and Caffeamide Derivatives Suppress Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cells

Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) contains antibiotic and anticancer activities. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the anticancer properties and mechanisms of CAPE and caffeamide derivatives in the oral squamous cell carcinoma cell (OSCC) lines SAS and OECM-1. The anti-OSCC effects of CAPE and the caffeamide derivatives (26G, 36C, 36H, 36K, and 36M) were evaluated using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide test. Cell cycle and total reactive oxygen species (ROS) production were analyzed using flow cytometry. The relative protein expression of malignant phenotypes was determined via Western blot analysis. The results showed that 26G and 36M were more cytotoxic than the other compounds in SAS cells. After 26G or 36M treatment for 48 h, cell cycle S phase or G2/M phase arrest was induced, and cellular ROS increased at 24 h, and then decreased at 48 h in both cell lines. The expression levels of cell cycle regulatory and anti-ROS proteins were downregulated. In addition, 26G or 36M treatment inhibited malignant phenotypes through mTOR-ULK1-P62-LC3 autophagic signaling activated by ROS generation. These results showed that 26G and 36M induce cancer cell death by activating autophagy signaling, which is correlated with altered cellular oxidative stress.

Progesterone Signaling and Uterine Fibroid Pathogenesis; Molecular Mechanisms and Potential Therapeutics

Uterine fibroids (UFs) are the most important benign neoplastic threat to women's health worldwide, with a prevalence of up to 80% in premenopausal women, and can cause heavy menstrual bleeding, pain, and infertility. Progesterone signaling plays a crucial role in the development and growth of UFs. Progesterone promotes the proliferation of UF cells by activating several signaling pathways genetically and epigenetically. In this review article, we reviewed the literature covering progesterone signaling in UF pathogenesis and further discussed the therapeutic potential of compounds that modulate progesterone signaling against UFs, including selective progesterone receptor modulator (SPRM) drugs and natural compounds. Further studies are needed to confirm the safety of SPRMs as well as their exact molecular mechanisms. The consumption of natural compounds as a potential anti-UFs treatment seems promising, since these compounds can be used on a long-term basis-especially for women pursuing concurrent pregnancy, unlike SPRMs. However, further clinical trials are needed to confirm their effectiveness.

Protective Potential of β-Hydroxybutyrate against Glucose-Deprivation-Induced Neurotoxicity Involving the Modulation of Autophagic Flux and the Monomeric Aβ Level in Neuro-2a Cells

Hypoglycemia has been known as a potential contributory factor to neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease. There may be shared pathogenic mechanisms underlying both conditions, and the ketone body, β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), as an alternative substrate for glucose may exert neuroprotection against hypoglycemia-induced injury. To investigate this, Neuro-2a cells were subjected to a 24 h period of glucose deprivation with or without the presence of BHB. Cell viability, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, apoptosis, autophagy, and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and beta-amyloid peptide (Aβ) levels were evaluated. The results show that Neuro-2a cells deprived of glucose displayed a significant loss of cell survival with a corresponding decrease in ATP levels, suggesting that glucose deprivation was neurotoxic. This effect was likely attributed to the diverse mechanisms including raised ROS, defective autophagic flux and reduced basal Aβ levels (particularly monomeric Aβ). The presence of BHB could partially protect against the loss of cell survival induced by glucose deprivation. The mechanisms underlying the neuroprotective actions of BHB might be mediated, at least in part, through restoring ATP, and modulating ROS production, autophagy flux efficacy and the monomeric Aβ level. Results imply that a possible link between the basal monomeric Aβ and glucose deprivation neurotoxicity, and treatments designed for the prevention of energy impairment, such as BHB, may be beneficial for rescuing surviving cells in relation to neurodegeneration.

The Adipokine Visfatin Modulates Cancer Stem Cell Properties in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

Obesity is a cancer progression risk factor; excessive adipocytes increase adipokine secretion. Visfatin, a novel adipokine highly expressed in cancer patients, is related to breast cancer risk. The modulation of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) metabolism and the induction of a tumorigenic environment plays a vital role in cancer progression. Among cancer cell types, cancer stem-like cells (CSCs) with self-renewal and chemotherapy-resistance abilities could modulate tumor progression and cancer recurrence ability. In this study, we focused on visfatin's modulation effect on stemness-related properties using the high-malignancy breast cancer cell line MDA-MB-231 in in vitro and in vivo studies. Visfatin treatment significantly increased both the sphere number and sphere diameter and increased the protein expression of NANOG homeobox (NANOG), sex-determining region Y-box 2 (SOX2), and octamer-binding transcription factor 4 (OCT4), as well as SIRT1 protein levels. The serum angiogenesis marker VEGF and extracellular nicotinamide phosphoribosyl transferase (NAMPT, visfatin) were induced after visfatin treatment, increasing the stemness and angiogenesis environment, which were significantly reduced by the visfatin inhibitor FK866. Our results demonstrate that the visfatin-activated SIRT-SOX2 axis promotes triple-negative breast cancer stemness and enriches the tumorigenic microenvironment.

Quercetin Ameliorates Renal Injury and Pyroptosis in Lupus Nephritis through Inhibiting IL-33/ST2 Pathway In Vitro and In Vivo

Lupus nephritis (LN) is a common and serious symptom in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Tubular interstitial fibrosis is a common underlying mechanism in the development of lupus nephritis to end-stage renal failure (ESRD). Quercetin is widely proven to prevent tissue fibrosis. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to investigate the beneficial effects of quercetin on the inhibition of fibrosis and inflammation pathways in in vitro and in vivo lupus nephritis models. In the current study, MRL/lpr mice as animal models, and HK-2 human renal tubular epithelial cells were stimulated by interleukin-33 (IL-33) to mimic the cellular model of lupus nephritis. Immunohistochemical staining, immunoblotting assay, immunofluorescence staining, and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction assay were used. The in vivo results showed that quercetin improved the renal function and inhibited both fibrosis- and inflammation-related markers in MRL/lpr mice animal models. The in vitro results indicated that quercetin ameliorated the accumulation of fibrosis- and inflammation-related proteins in IL-33-induced HK-2 cells and improved renal cell pyroptosis via the IL33/ST2 pathway. Overall, quercetin can improve LN-related renal fibrosis and inflammation, which may offer an effective potential therapeutic strategy for lupus nephritis.

Antiglycation Effects of Adlay Seed and Its Active Polyphenol Compounds: An In Vitro Study

This study aimed to evaluate the antiglycation effects of adlay on protein glycation using in vitro glycation assays. Adlay seed was divided into the following four parts: the hull (AH), testa (AT), bran (AB), and polished adlay (PA). A solvent extraction technique and column chromatography were utilized to investigate the active fractions and components of adlay. Based on a BSA-glucose assay, the ethanolic extracts of AT (ATE) and AB (ABE) revealed a greater capacity to inhibit protein glycation. ATE was further consecutively partitioned into four solvent fractions with n-hexane, ethyl acetate (ATE-Ea), 1-butanol (ATE-BuOH), and water. ATE-BuOH and -Ea show marked inhibition of glucose-mediated glycation. Medium–high polarity subfractions eluted from ATE-BuOH below 50% methanol with Diaion HP-20, ATE-BuOH-c to -f, exhibited superior antiglycation activity, with a maximum inhibitory percentage of 88%. Two phenolic compounds, chlorogenic acid and ferulic acid, identified in ATE-BuOH with HPLC, exhibited potent inhibition of the individual stage of protein glycation and its subsequent crosslinking, as evaluated by the BSA-glucose assay, BS-methylglyoxal (MGO) assay, and G.K. peptide-ribose assay. In conclusion, this study demonstrated the antiglycation properties of ATE in vitro that suggest a beneficial effect in targeting hyperglycemia-mediated protein modification.

Association of rs9679162 Genetic Polymorphism and Aberrant Expression of Polypeptide N-Acetylgalactosaminyltransferase 14 (GALNT14) in Head and Neck Cancer

Simple Summary

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy was performed before surgery. Because the tumor itself and the surrounding vascular bed were not damaged, the chemotherapy we performed could have good drug delivery. After the operation, the volume of the tumor can be reduced to facilitate surgery or radiotherapy. However, neoadjuvant chemotherapy also delays the patient’s time to receive main therapy. The physician must make sure that it has a good response and does not allow disease progression in the patient during neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Therefore, predicting the treatment response of neoadjuvant chemotherapy can shorten the treatment time, reduce the harm of chemotherapy side effects, and avoid the occurrence of drug resistance. The results of this study showed that GALNT14-rs9679162 and mRNA expression were associated with post-treatment survival in head and neck cancer. It can be used as an indicator to predict the treatment response of neoadjuvant chemotherapy.

Abstract

The polypeptide N-Acetylgalactosaminyltransferase 14 (GALNT14) rs9679162 and mRNA expression were associated with treatment outcome in various cancers. However, the relation of GALNT14 and head and neck cancer were nuclear. A total of 199 patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) were collected in this study, including oral SCC (OSCC), oropharyngeal SCC (OPSCC), laryngeal SCC (LSCC), and others. The DNA and RNA of cancer tissues were extracted using the TRI Reagent method. The rs9679162 was analyzed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequencing methods in 199 DNA specimens, and the mRNA expression was analyzed using quantitative reverse transcription PCR (RT-qPCR) methods in 68 paired RNA specimens of non-cancerous matched tissues (NCMT) and tumor tissues. The results showed that the genotype of TT, TG, and GG appeared at 30%, 44%, and 26%, respectively. Non-TT genotype or G alleotype were associated with alcohol, betel nut, and cigarette using among patients with OSCC, and it also affected the treatment and survival of patients with OSCC and LSCC. High GALNT14 mRNA expression levels increased lymphatic metastasis of patients with HNSCC, and treatment and survival in patients with OPSCC. Overall, the GALNT14-rs9679162 genotype and mRNA expression level can be used as indicators of HNSCC treatment prognosis.

Recent Advances in Glycyrrhiza glabra (Licorice)-Containing Herbs Alleviating Radiotherapy- and Chemotherapy-Induced Adverse Reactions in Cancer Treatment

Cancers represent a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. They also impose a large economic burden on patients, their families, and health insurance systems. Notably, cancers and the adverse reactions to their therapeutic options, chemotherapy and radiotherapy, dramatically affect the quality of life of afflicted patients. Therefore, developing approaches to manage chemotherapy- and radiotherapy-induced adverse reactions gained greater attention in recent years. Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice), a perennial plant that is one of the most frequently used herbs in traditional Chinese medicine, has been heavily investigated in relation to cancer therapy. Licorice/licorice-related regimes, used in combination with chemotherapy, may improve the adverse effects of chemotherapy. However, there is little awareness of licorice-containing herbs alleviating reactions to radiotherapy and chemotherapy, or to other induced adverse reactions in cancer treatment. We aimed to provide a descriptive review, and to emphasize the possibility that licorice-related medicines could be used as an adjuvant regimen with chemotherapy to improve quality of life (QoL) and to reduce side effects, thus, improving compliance with chemotherapy. The experimental method involved searching different databases, including PubMed, the Cochrane Library, and Wang Fang database, as of May 2022, to identify any relevant studies. Despite a lack of high-quality and large-scale randomized controlled trials, we still discovered the potential benefits of licorice-containing herbs from published clinical studies. These studies find that licorice-containing herbs, and their active ingredients, reduce the adverse reactions caused by chemotherapy and radiotherapy, and improve the QoL of patients. This comprehensive review will serve as a cornerstone to encourage more scientists to evaluate and develop effective Traditional Chinese medicine prescriptions to improve the side effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

Development and Validation of the Chinese Version Non-Nutritive Sweetener Food Frequency Questionnaire with Urinary Biomarker in Children and Adolescents

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to develop a validated food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) to evaluate the intake of non-nutritive sweeteners (NNSs) in child and adolescent Asian populations.

DESIGN

Intensive and overall market research was performed to create the applicable NNS-FFQ with 13 food categories and 305 items. Six intense sweeteners, including acesulfame potassium, aspartame, sucralose, glycyrrhizin, steviol glycosides and sorbitol, were investigated. The validity and reproducibility of the NNS-FFQ were evaluated. The validity was further assessed by examining the consistency of reported NNS intake compared with urinary biomarkers using Cohen's κ analysis.

SETTINGS

This work was considered to be relevant in Asian societies.

PARTICIPANTS

One hundred and two children and adolescents recruited from several clinics were invited to participate in this study.

RESULTS

High content validity indices and high content validity ratio levels were revealed for each sweetener and food category. Reproducibility among subjects was satisfactory. Significant moderate correlations between estimated steviol glycoside/sucralose consumption and sensitive urinary biomarker levels were demonstrated (κ values were 0.59 and 0.45 for steviol glycosides and sucralose, respectively), indicating that the NNS-FFQ can be used to assess an individual's NNS intake. The dietary intense sweetener consumption pattern evaluated in this measurement was similar to those observed in other Asian countries but differed from those observed in Western populations with respect to types and amounts of NNSs.

CONCLUSIONS

This validated NNS-FFQ can be an applicable and useful tool to evaluate NNS intake in future epidemiological and clinical studies.

An evaluation of relugolix/estradiol/norethindrone acetate for the treatment of heavy menstrual bleeding associated with uterine fibroids in premenopausal women

INTRODUCTION

Uterine Fibroids (UFs) are the most predominant benign tumor in women who are coming of reproductive age, and causes intense economic load priced in billions of US dollars. Historically, surgery has been the main definitive treatment, albeit less attractive nowadays, especially for women with future fertility plans. Therefore, studies to explore the pharmacological treatment options are increasing especially as those that are currently available are limited for short-term use only.

AREAS COVERED

This drug evaluation features the clinical results from previous and ongoing studies of relugolix, in combination with the add back therapy of estradiol (E2) and norethindrone acetate (NETA), as a novel, orally administered, nonpeptide antagonist of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) for the management of heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) in premenopausal women with UFs.

EXPERT OPINION

The combination of relugolix/E2/NETA is an encouraging, well-tolerated and noninvasive pharmacological option for UFs patients. Relugolix induced a concentration-dependent decrease in HMB. However, it should be used with hormonal add-back therapy (E2+ NETA) to avoid induced hypoestrogenic side effects, importantly bone mineral density loss. Moreover, symptoms will likely resume shortly after the termination of the relugolix combination administration.

The relation between NEAT1 expression level and survival rate in patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma

Background/purpose

Numerous studies have shown that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are involved in cancer progression and chemotherapy resistance. Nuclear enriched abundant transcript 1 (NEAT1) is an lncRNA. It affects tumor cell progression and drug resistance in various tumors. However, the relation of NEAT1 and survival rate in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) requires further study.

Materials and methods

One normal gingival epithelium cell line, SG, three oral cancer cell lines (HSC3, OEC-M1, and SAS), 34 paired non-cancerous matched tissues (NCMT), and OSCC tissues were used in this study. Tri-reagent was used for total RNA extraction. NEAT1 expression was assessed by reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR).

Results

NEAT1 expression in oral cancer cell lines was lower than that in normal cells and was significantly downregulated in OSCC. NEAT1 upregulation reduced the survival rate of patients with OSCC. NEAT1 upregulation also reduced the survival rate of OSCC patients treated with chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

Conclusion

These results indicate that NEAT1 expression is a valuable biomarker for the prediction and prognosis of oral cancer.

Suppression on allergic airway inflammation of dehulled adlay (Coix lachryma-jobi L. var. ma-yuen Stapf) in mice and anti-degranulation phytosterols from adlay bran

Adlay (Coix lachryma-jobi L. var. ma-yuen Stapf) seeds have been used in Asia for thousands years to treat warts, chapped skin, rheumatism, and neuralgia. The anti-allergic activity of dehulled adlay (DA) seeds was identified, and the bran (AB) is regarded as the main functional constituent in the edible part. However, no study has focused on in vivo acute anti-allergic airway inflammation. In the present report, we investigated DA methanolic extract (DAM) reversed ovalbumin (OVA)/methacholine (Mch)-induced airway hypersensitivity, decreased interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5, and IL-13 levels from splenocytes, suppressed tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, IL-1β, and IL-13 levels and reduced eosinophil counts and eotaxin in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), which imply that the modulatory effects of DA should involve allergic degranulation. Further, seven phytosterols were isolated from AB ethanolic extract (ABE); among them, 3-O-caffeoyl-5β-sitostan-3-ol, β-sitosterol 3-O-glucopyranoside and β-sitosterol inhibited β-hexosaminidase release from A23187-stimulated RBL-2H3 cells with percentages of 54.1%, 52.0% and 48.5%, respectively, at 50 μM. In addition, β-sitosterol reduced immunoglobulin (Ig)E-stimulated degranulation on RBL-2H3 cells in a dose-dependent manner. The phytosterols were the predominant components based on gas chromatography (GC) analysis. This is the first study to demonstrate that DA suppressed OVA/Mch-induced acute airway inflammation. The phytosterols in AB showed significant anti-degranulation activities, and may be regarded as the indicative components of AB for anti-allergy effects.

Lack of Salivary Long Non-Coding RNA XIST Expression Is Associated with Increased Risk of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Cross-Sectional Study

Studies have shown that there is a disparity between males and females in south-east Asia with regard to oral cancer morbidity. A previous study found that oral cancer tissue showed loss of heterozygosity of the X-linked lncRNA XIST gene. We suggest that XIST may play an important role in oral cancer morbidity when associated with sex. Saliva contains proteins and RNAs that are potential biomarkers for the diagnosis of diseases. This study investigated salivary XIST expression and the correlation to clinical-pathological data among oral squamous cell carcinoma patients. Salivary XIST expression was only observed in females, and a high proportion of females with OSCC lack salivary lncRNA XIST expression (88%). The expression showed no correlation with alcohol consumption, betel quid chewing, or cigarette smoking habits. People lacking salivary lncRNA XIST expression had a significantly increased odds ratio of suffering from OSCC (OR = 19.556, p < 0.001), particularly females (OR = 33.733, p < 0.001). The ROC curve showed that salivary lncRNA XIST expression has acceptable discrimination accuracy to predict the risk of OSCC (AUC = 0.73, p < 0.01). Lack of salivary lncRNA XIST expression was associated with an increased risk of OSCC. We provided an insight into the role of salivary lncRNA XIST as a biomarker to predict the morbidity of OSCC.

In Vitro Assessment of the Cell Metabolic Activity, Cytotoxicity, Cell Attachment, and Inflammatory Reaction of Human Oral Fibroblasts on Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) Implant-Abutment

The purpose of this research is to compare the cytotoxicity of polyetheretherketone (PEEK) and polyetherketoneketone (PEKK) with conventional dental implant–abutment materials, namely titanium alloy (Ti-6Al-4V) and yttria-stabilized tetragonal zirconia polycrystal (Y-TZP), to evaluate the cell metabolic activity, cytotoxicity, and inflammation potential of human oral fibroblasts (HOF) on these materials. Disk-shaped specimens were designed and prepared via a dental computer-aided manufacturing technology system. Surface topography, roughness, and free energy were investigated by atomic force microscope and contact angle analyzer; cell metabolic activity and cytotoxicity by MTT assay; and morphological changes by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The effect of pro-inflammatory gene expression was evaluated by RT-qPCR. The obtained data were analyzed with one-way analysis of variance and post-hoc Tukey’s honest significant difference tests. PEEK and PEKK exhibited higher submicron surface roughness (0.04 μm) and hydrophobicity (>80°) than the control. Although the cell activity of PEEK was lower than that of Ti-6Al-4V and Y-TZP for the first 24 h (p < 0.05), after 48 h there was no difference (p > 0.05). According to the cell cytotoxicity and the pro-inflammatory cytokine gene expression assays, there was no difference between the materials (p > 0.05). SEM observations indicated that HOF adhered poorly to PEKK but properly to Ti-6Al-4V, Y-TZP, and PEEK. PEEK and PEKK show comparable epithelial biological responses to Ti-6Al-4V and Y-TZP as implant–abutment materials. Between the two polymeric materials, the PEEK surface, where the HOF showed better cell metabolic activity and cytotoxicity, was a more promising implant–abutment material.

Hinokitiol Exhibits Antitumor Properties through Induction of ROS-Mediated Apoptosis and p53-Driven Cell-Cycle Arrest in Endometrial Cancer Cell Lines (Ishikawa, HEC-1A, KLE)

Hinokitiol is a natural tropolone derivative that is present in the heartwood of cupressaceous plants, and has been extensively investigated for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antitumor properties in the context of various diseases. To date, the effects of hinokitiol on endometrial cancer (EC) has not been explored. The purpose of our study was to investigate the anti-proliferative effects of hinokitiol on EC cells. Cell viability was determined with an MTT (3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay, and the quantification of apoptosis and reactive oxygen species (ROSs) was performed by using flow cytometry, while protein expression was measured with the Western blotting technique. Hinokitiol significantly suppressed cell proliferation through the inhibition of the expression of cell-cycle mediators, such as cyclin D1 and cyclin-dependent kinase 4 (CDK4), as well as the induction of the tumor suppressor protein p53. In addition, hinokitiol increased the number of apoptotic cells and increased the protein expression of cleaved-poly-ADP-ribose polymerase (PARP) and active cleaved-caspase-3, as well as the ratio of Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax) to B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2). Interestingly, except for KLE cells, hinokitiol induced autophagy by promoting the accumulation of the microtubule-associated protein light chain 3B (LC3B) and reducing the sequestosome-1 (p62/SQSTM1) protein level. Furthermore, hinokitiol triggered ROS production and upregulated the phosphorylation of extracellular-signal-regulated kinase (p-ERK1/2) in EC cells. These results demonstrate that hinokitiol has potential anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic benefits in the treatment of endometrial cancer cell lines (Ishikawa, HEC-1A, and KLE).

Rice Husk Silica Liquid Protects Pancreatic β Cells from Streptozotocin-Induced Oxidative Damage

Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a complex multifactorial disease characterized by insulin resistance and dysfunction of pancreatic β-cells. Rice husk silica liquid (RHSL) is derived from rice husks and has not been explored in diabetes mellitus until now. Previous studies showed that rice husk is enriched with silica, and its silica nanoparticles are higher more biocompatible. To investigate the potential protective role of RHSL on pancreatic β cells, we utilized RIN-m5F pancreatic β cells and explored RHSL effect after streptozotocin (STZ)-stimulation. The recovery effects of RHSL were evaluated using flow cytometry, Western blotting, and immunofluorescence analysis. Results of our study showed that RHSL reversed the cell viability, insulin secretion, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and the change of mitochondria membrane potential (ΔΨm) in STZ-treated RIN-m5F cells. Moreover, the expression of phospho-receptor-interacting protein 3 (p-RIP3) and cleaved-poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP), phospho-mammalian target of rapamycin (p-mTOR), and sequestosome-1 (p62/SQSTM1) were significantly decreased, while the transition of light chain (LC)3-I to LC3-II was markedly increased after RHSL treatment in STZ-induced RIN-m5F cells. Interestingly, using autophagy inhibitors such as 3-methyladenine (3-MA) and chloroquine (CQ) both showed an increase in cleaved-PARP protein level, indicating apoptosis induction. Taken together, this study demonstrated that RHSL induced autophagy and alleviated STZ-induced ROS-mediated apoptosis in RIN-m5F cells.

A High Masticatory Muscle Tone Predicts the Risk of Malnutrition and Frailty in Inpatient Older Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study

INTRODUCTION

The prevalence of malnutrition among inpatient older adults is as high as 20∼50%. Masticatory performance is known to affect the nutritional status of individuals. However, an objective measurement to reflect the real status of masticatory muscle performance is lacking at the bedside.

METHODS

This pilot study analyzed the masticatory performance using surface electromyography (sEMG) of masticatory muscles that measures both muscle strength and muscle tone at the bedside. The nutritional status was measured using the Mini Nutritional Assessment tool. The handgrip strength was measured using a hand dynamometer. The statistical data were analyzed using SPSS 25 software.

RESULTS

The data revealed that female inpatient older adults more frequently had substandard handgrip strength (p = 0.028), an at-risk and poor nutritional status (p = 0.005), and a higher masseter muscle tone (p = 0.024). Inpatient older adults with an at-risk and poor nutritional status had an older age (p = 0.016), lower handgrip strength (p = 0.001), and higher average masseter muscle tone (p = 0.01). A high masseter muscle tone predicted the risk of having an at-risk and poor nutritional status. The at-risk or poor nutritional status predicted having a substandard handgrip strength by 5-fold.

CONCLUSIONS

A high masticatory muscle tone predicts malnutrition and frailty. Medical professionals should combat masticatory dysfunction-induced malnutrition by detecting masticatory muscle performance using sEMG and referring patients to dental professionals. Additionally, encouraging inpatient older adults to perform oral motor exercise is recommended.

Life course body mass index through childhood and young adulthood and risks of asthma and pulmonary function impairment

BACKGROUND

Adiposity is a key risk factor for asthma and impaired pulmonary function.

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to identify the critical period of life course adiposity for asthma in childhood and young adulthood, and to determine whether associations of adiposity and asthma vary across ages.

METHODS

Birth weight and body mass index (BMI) from birth to 17 years of age were assessed in 6130 children from the Taiwan Children Health Study. Logistic regression for asthma outcome and linear regression for pulmonary function outcome were used to investigate associations of adiposity with asthma. Seventeen BMI-related single-nucleotide polymorphisms were used to obtain genetic instrumental variables for adiposity to perform Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis.

RESULTS

Using both regression model and MR analyses, we confirmed that the critical period of adiposity in predicting childhood asthma would be before age 6 years. Further, we discovered that the sensitive period of adiposity gain related to young adulthood asthma was the prepubertal stage. Risks of asthma at age 17 per unit increase in z-score of the BMI increased from 0.94 (95% CI: 0.79-1.11) at birth, and became greater than 1.00 between age 11 and 12, then increased to 1.08 (95% CI: 0.95-1.22) at age 17. The associations of life course BMI with asthma and pulmonary function impairment at age 12 and with asthma at age 17 increased with age. The aforementioned association was most prominent among central obesity indicators.

CONCLUSIONS

To prevent asthma in childhood and young adulthood, we should aim at promoting healthy growth at the toddler period and prepubertal stage.

Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Hyperuricemic Effects of Chrysin on a High Fructose Corn Syrup-Induced Hyperuricemia Rat Model via the Amelioration of Urate Transporters and Inhibition of NLRP3 Inflammasome Signaling Pathway

Hyperuricemia is the main cause of gout and involved in the occurrence of many other diseases such as hyperlipidemia and hypertension correlated with metabolic disorders. Chrysin is a flavonoid compound found naturally in honey, propolis, and mushrooms and has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. However, its mechanism of action is not clear yet. This study investigated the mechanism of chrysin’s anti-hyperuricemic effect in hyperuricemia-induced rats fed with high-fructose corn syrup. Orally administrated chrysin for 28 consecutive days effectively decreased uric acid by inhibiting the activity of xanthine oxidase (XO) in the liver. Moreover, chrysin markedly downregulated the protein expression of uric acid transporter 1 (URAT1) and glucose transporter type 9 (GLUT9) and upregulated the protein expression of organic anion transporter 1 (OAT1) and human ATP-binding cassette subfamily G-2 (ABCG2). In addition, chrysin showed prominent anti-oxidative and inflammatory effects as the malondialdehyde (MDA) and interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β) concentration was reduced in both rat kidney and serum, which aligned with the inhibition of NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome signaling pathway activation. Collectively, our results strongly suggest that chrysin exhibits potent anti-hyperuricemic and anti-inflammatory effects that may yield new adjuvant treatments for gout.

Biofilm Formation on the Surface of (Poly)Ether-Ether-Ketone and In Vitro Antimicrobial Efficacy of Photodynamic Therapy on Peri-Implant Mucositis

Poly-ether-ether-ketone (PEEK) is an aesthetically pleasing natural material with good biocompatibility and shock absorption characteristics. The application of PEEK as a dental implant or abutment is expected to reduce the risk of failure and enhance aesthetics. Given that approximately one in 15 patients have allergic reactions to antibiotics, photodynamic therapy (PDT) has been gaining attention as an alternative treatment. Herein, the applicability of PEEK dental implants or abutments was investigated using material analyses, biofilm formation assay, and cell viability tests. The possible use of PDT for peri-implant mucositis was evaluated with the biofilm removal assay. The obtained data were analyzed based on the multivariate analysis of variance, paired t-tests, and the Pearson correlation coefficient (α = 0.05). The results revealed that PEEK was significantly less conducive to the formation of biofilms with S. mutans and A. actinomycetemcomitan (p < 0.001) but exhibited comparable MG-63 (human osteoblast-like) osteoblast cell viability (p > 0.05) to the other materials. PDT had similar antimicrobial efficacy and yielded similar biofilm removal effects to antibiotics. Altogether, these findings suggest that PEEK has attractive features and can serve as an alternative material for dental implants or abutments. In cases where peri-implant mucositis occurs, PDT can be used as an accessible therapeutic approach.

Isoliquiritigenin Reverses Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition Through Modulation of the TGF-β/Smad Signaling Pathway in Endometrial Cancer

Simple Summary

The high recurrence risk and poor prognosis of metastatic endometrial cancer are the main focus of interventional therapy. In view of this, we established in vitro and in vivo metastasis models and explored the underlying mechanisms of the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process, cell migration ability, and metastasis in response to isoliquiritigenin (ISL). The presented in vitro and in vivo preclinical studies both demonstrated that ISL efficiently suppressed endometrial cancer cell migration and reduced the HEC-1A-LUC tumor metastasis in nude mice through inhibiting TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway. These findings shed the light for further research to highlight the ISL potential in endometrial cancer metastasis.

Abstract

Endometrial cancer is a common gynecological cancer with a poor prognosis, mostly attributed to tumor metastasis. Epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) can be mediated via transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) signaling pathway, facilitating the ability of cancer cell invasion and migration. Isoliquiritigenin (ISL) is a flavonoid derived from licorice with reported antineoplastic activities. This study aims to investigate the anti-metastatic potential of ISL on endometrial cancer both in vitro and in vivo. First, human endometrial cancer cell lines (HEC-1A, Ishikawa, and RL95-2) were treated with ISL and then subjected to functional assays such as migration assay as well as molecular analyses including immunoblotting, immunofluorescence and RT-qPCR. In addition, HEC-1A-LUC cells were implanted into female nude mice and treated with ISL by intraperitoneal injection for four weeks. Results showed that ISL inhibited cell migration and reversed the effect of TGF-β on the expression of E-cadherin, N-cadherin, vimentin, α-SMA, p-Smad3, and TWIST1/2 In vitro. Interestingly, In vivo study revealed that ISL reduced peritoneal dissemination and serum level of TGF-β1, as well as decreased the expression levels of N-cadherin, p-Smad2/3, TWIST1/2, while increased E-cadherin. Overall, ISL reverses the EMT through targeting the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway and features a potential therapeutic treatment for metastatic endometrial cancer.

Correction to "Melissa officinalis Extract Induces Apoptosis and Inhibits Migration in Human Colorectal Cancer Cells"

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.0c04489.].

Perspectives on the Role of Isoliquiritigenin in Cancer

Isoliquiritigenin (2',4',4-trihydroxychalcone, ISL), one of the most important bioactive compounds with a chalcone structure, is derived from licorice root. Licorice is commonly known as Glycyrrhiza, including Glycyrrhiza uralensis, Glycyrrhiza radix, and Glycyrrhiza glabra, which are generally available in common foods and Chinese herbal medicines based on a wide variety of biological functions and pharmacological effects, and its derivative (ISL) is utilized as a food additive and adjunct disease treatment. In this review, we summarized the progress over the last 10 years in the targeted pathways and molecular mechanisms of ISL that are involved in the regulation of the onset and progression of different types of cancers.

Melissa officinalis Extract Induces Apoptosis and Inhibits Migration in Human Colorectal Cancer Cells

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most frequently diagnosed cancers worldwide. Lifestyle-related factors, such as diet, are associated with the development of CRC. Cumulating evidence indicates noticeable chemopreventive effects of phytochemicals on CRC, suggesting that drinking herbal tea potentially reduces the risk of distal colon cancer via its antiproliferative and anti-angiogenic activities. We examine the antitumor effects of nine components frequently found in herbal tea and uncover the underlying molecular mechanism. Among them, the hot water extract of Melissa officinalis (MO) exhibited the highest anticancer activity on CRC cells. We revealed that MO reduced cell proliferation, induced cell cycle arrest at the G₂/M phase, triggered caspase-dependent apoptotic cell death, and inhibited cell migration ability by modulating the epithelial-mesenchymal transition in HCT116 CRC cells. To examine the metabolite composition in the MO hot water extract, we applied mass spectrometry-based analysis and identified 67 compounds. Among them, the phenolic compounds, including lignans, phenylpropanoids, and polyketides, are widely found in natural products and possess various bioactivities such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidation, and anticancer effects. The results indicate that herbal tea consumption benefits CRC prevention and management.

The Potential Effect of Fucoidan on Inhibiting Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition, Proliferation, and Increase in Apoptosis for Endometriosis Treatment: In Vivo and In Vitro Study

Endometriosis is common in reproductive-age women and its pathology is to increase proliferation and migration to enhance epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition progression (EMT). However, treatments are currently limited, so it is important to explore new therapeutic drugs. Hence, in this study, we investigate the therapeutic effect of fucoidan (FC) on the progression and mechanisms of endometriosis. The cell viability of endometrial cell lines End1/E6E7 and Vk2/E6E7 treated with different concentrations of FC were assessed by 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and cell counting. Cell migration was evaluated using wound-healing assay. In an in vivo experiment, female Balb/c mice received surgically induced endometriosis followed by different concentrations of fucoidan for 6 weeks. High-frequency ultrasound imaging was applied to detect subsequent lesion growth. The results demonstrated that fucoidan inhibited the viability and migration ability of End1/E6E7 and Vk2/E6E7 cells. Additionally, the administration of fucoidan reduced the volume and weight of endometriotic lesions, decreased inflammatory cytokines and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) of serum and lesions, and improved EMT proliferation and apoptosis-related protein expression. For the first time, fucoidan indicated anti-proliferative and anti-inflammatory effects as well as inhibited EMT progression and induced apoptosis, improving endometriosis.

Correction to: Disturbed Gastrointestinal Contractility in a Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Rat Model

The original version of the article unfortunately contained an error in the legend of Figure 5B. Corrected version of Figure 5 is given below.

The effects of isoliquiritigenin on endometriosis in vivo and in vitro study

BACKGROUND

Endometriosis is a common gynaecological disease characterized by growth of uterine endometrial tissue, outside the uterine cavity, on the ovaries, oviduct and pelvic peritoneum. Isoliquiritigenin (ISL) is a natural flavonoid isolated from the root of licorice (Glycyrrhiza uralensis) and shallot (Allium cepa). ISL has previously shown antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferation and anti-tumor activities.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to investigate the effects of ISL on endometriosis in vivo and in vitro.

METHODS

End1/E6E7 endometriosis cells were treated with ISL and β-estradiol. The MTT assay was used to detect cell viability. Cell migration was evaluated by the wound-healing assay. The expression of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related proteins were detected by western blot. Female Balb/c mice, surgically induced to have endometriosis by transplanting uterine tissue into the abdominal cavity, were treated with ISL or vehicle for 4 weeks. Lesion growth was subsequently analyzed by high-resolution ultrasound imaging. Serum and lesion inflammatory cytokines were measured by ELISA. EMT-related proteins and apoptosis-related proteins of endometriotic lesions were detected by western blot.

RESULTS

It was observed that ISL treatment inhibited the viability and migration of End1/E6E7. ISL treatment increased the expression of E-cadherin, and decreased the expression of N-cadherin, Slug and Snail. In the animal model, ISL treatment reduced the volume and weight of endometriotic lesions, decreased serum and lesion inflammatory cytokines, inhibited EMT, and induced apoptosis of the lesions.

CONCLUSION

ISL inhibited the viability, migration and EMT-related proteins of End1/E6E7 cells, reduced the volume and weight of endometriotic lesions, inhibited inflammatory cytokines and EMT, and induced apoptosis of the lesions to improve endometriosis.

Disturbed Gastrointestinal Contractility in a Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Rat Model

BACKGROUND

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a common hormonal disorder in women, affects 4-18% of women of reproductive age worldwide. A higher prevalence of irritable bowel syndrome was found in women with PCOS. However, the effects and mechanism of PCOS on stomach and colon contractility remain unclear.

AIMS

This study aims to evaluate the correlation between PCOS and gastrointestinal disorder.

METHODS

Four-week-old female rats were subcutaneously implanted with pellets containing 7.5 mg of dihydrotestosterone for 13 weeks to create PCOS rat models. After vaginal smears, the estrus cycle stage was evaluated. Oral glucose tolerance test was performed after 90 days of treatment. All animals were killed at 17 weeks. The rats were fasted overnight and then anesthetized before decapitation, and the stomach fundus and colon were surgically removed and cultured in oxygenated Krebs solution. Acetylcholine and carbachol were used to evaluate the cholinergic system on contractility.

RESULTS

The basal and stomach fundus responded with a reduced frequency and contractility in response to acetylcholine in the PCOS group. Moreover, no difference was found in the spontaneous stomach contractility induced by carbachol in both groups. Lower maximal colon muscle contractility was also found in response to acetylcholine stimulation in PCOS rats. Furthermore, lower maximal muscle contractility was found in response to extracellular calcium levels. MLC20 phosphorylation was also reduced in the gastrointestinal tissue in PCOS rats.

CONCLUSIONS

PCOS induces gastroparesis and reduces gastrointestinal muscle contractility. This effect is, at least partly, through reducing the responsiveness of acetylcholine and MLC20 phosphorylation.

The Inhibitory Effect of Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Its Active Compound Oleocanthal on Prostaglandin-Induced Uterine Hypercontraction and Pain-Ex Vivo and In Vivo Study

Primary dysmenorrhea is a common occurrence in adolescent women and is a type of chronic inflammation. Dysmenorrhea is due to an increase in oxidative stress, which increases cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression, increases the concentration of prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α), and increases the calcium concentration in uterine smooth muscle, causing excessive uterine contractions and pain. The polyphenolic compound oleocanthal (OC) in extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) has been shown to have an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effect. This study aimed to investigate the inhibitory effect of extra virgin olive oil and its active ingredient oleocanthal (OC) on prostaglandin-induced uterine hyper-contraction, its antioxidant ability, and related mechanisms. We used force-displacement transducers to calculate uterine contraction in an ex vivo study. To analyze the analgesic effect, in an in vivo study, we used an acetic acid/oxytocin-induced mice writhing model and determined uterus contraction-related signaling protein expression. The active compound OC inhibited calcium/PGF2α-induced uterine hyper-contraction. In the acetic acid and oxytocin-induced mice writhing model, the intervention of the EVOO acetonitrile layer extraction inhibited pain by inhibiting oxidative stress and the phosphorylation of the protein kinase C (PKC)/extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK)/ myosin light chain (MLC) signaling pathway. These findings supported the idea that EVOO and its active ingredient, OC, can effectively decrease oxidative stress and PGF2α-induced uterine hyper-contraction, representing a further treatment for dysmenorrhea.

Physicochemical and Antioxidative Characteristics of Potato Protein Isolate Hydrolysate

This study investigated the physicochemical characteristics of potato protein isolate hydrolysate (PPIH) and its antioxidant activity. Potato protein isolate (PPI) was hydrolyzed into PPIH by the proteases bromelain, Neutrase, and Flavourzyme. Compared with PPI, the resulting PPIH had a lower molecular weight (MW, from 103.5 to 422.7 Da) and smaller particle size (<50 nm), as well as a higher solubility rate (>70%) under acidic conditions (pH 3–6). PPIH presented good solubility (73%) across the tested pH range of 3–6. As the pH was increased, the zeta potential of PPIH decreased from −7.4 to −21.6. Using the 2,2′-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) radical-scavenging assay, we determined that the half-maximal effective concentration (EC₅₀) values of ascorbic acid, PPIH, and PPI were 0.01, 0.89, and >2.33 mg/mL, respectively. Furthermore, PPIH (50 μg/mL) protected C2C12 cells from H₂O₂ oxidation significantly better than PPI (10.5% higher viability rate; p < 0.01). These findings demonstrated the possible use of PPIH as an antioxidant in medical applications.

In vitro antimicrobial and antipro-inflammation potential of honokiol and magnolol against oral pathogens and macrophages

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

Honokiol and magnolol are natural components isolated from Magnolia bark that is used in traditional Chinese and Japanese herbal medicine. These two isomers are used as a component of dietary supplements and cosmetic products. In this study, we investigated the antimicrobial effect of honokiol and magnolol on pathogens causing oral diseases, their mechanism of action in biofilm formation and drug resistance of oral pathogens, and inflammatory regulation in mammalian cells.

METHODS

We determined the minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bactericidal concentration of honokiol and magnolol, and their stability at different temperatures and pH. We also evaluated their effect on biofilm formation, antibiotic-resistance gene expression in MRSA, and pro-inflammatory gene expression in mammalian cells.

RESULTS

Honokiol showed better antimicrobial activity than magnolol. Both honokiol and magnolol showed stable bacterial inhibitory activity over a wide range of temperature and pH, reduced biofilm formation, and antibiotic resistance in oral pathogens. The biofilm formation- and antibiotic resistance-related gene expression was consistent with the respective phenotypes. Furthermore, these two isomers repressed the expression of pro-inflammatory genes in RAW264.7 cells.

CONCLUSION

Our study provides evidence of the potential application of honokiol and magnolol in dental medicine to cure or prevent oral diseases.

Effects of melatonin to arecoline-induced reactive oxygen species production and DNA damage in oral squamous cell carcinoma

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

Arecoline, the major alkaloid of areca nut, is known to induce reactive oxygen species (ROS) and DNA damage during oral cancer progression. This study aim to evaluate whether melatonin, an antioxidant, supported or repressed the arecoline-induced carcinogenesis phenotypes in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC).

METHODS

The cytotoxicity of arecoline or melatonin treatment alone and their co-treatment in the OSCC cell line OEC-M1 were analyzed using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. The cell cycle, cell death, and total ROS production were analyzed using flow cytometer. The protein expression was determined using western blot analysis. The genotoxicity and mutation rate were determined using micronucleus assay and hypoxanthine phosphoribosyl transferase (HPRT) forward mutation assay, respectively, in CHO-K1 cells. The ataxia telangiectasia mutated (ATM) promoter activity and DNA repair ability were determined through reporter assay.

RESULTS

The result showed that both the arecoline and melatonin induced ROS production and antioxidant enzymes expression. Melatonin treatment enhanced arecoline-induced ROS production, cytotoxicity, G2/M phase arrest, and cell apoptosis in OSCC cells. On the other hand, melatonin treatment activated DNA repair activity to reverse arecoline-induced DNA damage and mutation.

CONCLUSION

These results indicated that melatonin is a potential chemopreventive agent for betel quid chewers to prevent OSCC initiation and progression.

Dietary Compound Isoliquiritigenin, an Antioxidant from Licorice, Suppresses Triple-Negative Breast Tumor Growth via Apoptotic Death Program Activation in Cell and Xenograft Animal Models

Patients with triple-negative breast cancer have few therapeutic strategy options. In this study, we investigated the effect of isoliquiritigenin (ISL) on the proliferation of triple-negative breast cancer cells. We found that treatment with ISL inhibited triple-negative breast cancer cell line (MDA-MB-231) cell growth and increased cytotoxicity. ISL reduced cell cycle progression through the reduction of cyclin D1 protein expression and increased the sub-G1 phase population. The ISL-induced apoptotic cell population was observed by flow cytometry analysis. The expression of Bcl-2 protein was reduced by ISL treatment, whereas the Bax protein level increased; subsequently, the downstream signaling molecules caspase-3 and poly ADP-ribose polymerase (PARP) were activated. Moreover, ISL reduced the expression of total and phosphorylated mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), ULK1, and cathepsin B, whereas the expression of autophagic-associated proteins p62, Beclin1, and LC3 was increased. The decreased cathepsin B cause the p62 accumulation to induce caspase-8 mediated apoptosis. In vivo studies further showed that preventive treatment with ISL could inhibit breast cancer growth and induce apoptotic and autophagic-mediated apoptosis cell death. Taken together, ISL exerts an effect on the inhibition of triple-negative MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell growth through autophagy-mediated apoptosis. Therefore, future studies of ISL as a supplement or alternative therapeutic agent for clinical trials against breast cancer are warranted.

Downregulation of testosterone production through luteinizing hormone receptor regulation in male rats exposed to 17α-ethynylestradiol

The pharmaceutical 17α-ethynylestradiol (EE2) is considered as an endocrine-disrupting chemical that interferes with male reproduction and hormonal activation. In this study, we investigated the molecular mechanism underlying EE2-regulatory testosterone release in vitro and in vivo. The results show that EE2 treatment decreased testosterone release from rat Leydig cells. Treatment of rats with EE2 reduced plasma testosterone levels and decreased the sensitivity of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). EE2 reduced luteinizing hormone receptor (LHR) expression associated with decreased cAMP generation by downregulation of adenylyl cyclase activity and decreased intracellular calcium-mediated pathways. The expression levels of StAR and P450scc were decreased in Leydig cells by treatment of rats with EE2 for 7 days. The sperm motility in the vas deferens and epididymis was reduced, but the histopathological features of the testis and the total sperm number of the vas deferens were not affected. Moreover, the serum dihydrotestosterone (DHT) level was decreased by treatment with EE2. The prostate gland and seminal vesicle atrophied significantly, and their expression level of 5α-reductase type II was reduced after EE2 exposure. Taken together, these results demonstrate an underlying mechanism of EE2 to downregulate testosterone production in Leydig cells, explaining the damaging effects of EE2 on male reproduction.

Melatonin activates cell death programs for the suppression of uterine leiomyoma cell proliferation

The circadian nature of melatonin has a protective effect on the progression of female reproductive cancers, including breast and ovarian cancers. However, the effect of melatonin on the growth of uterine leiomyoma is still unclear. In this study, we found that the growth of uterine leiomyoma ELT3 cells was reduced by treatment with melatonin. Treatment with melatonin increased the distribution of sub-G1 phase and increased DNA condensation in ELT3 cells. Melatonin-induced apoptosis and autophagy cell death progression were observed in ELT3 cells. Melatonin exerts a highly selective effect on primary normal human uterine smooth muscle (UtSMC) cells. The UtSMC cell cycle was arrested by melatonin treatment through up-regulation of p21, p27, and PTEN protein expression, but melatonin did not further promote apoptosis program activation. Melatonin reduced cell proliferation in ELT3 cells underlying the activation of melatonin MT1 and MT2 receptors, which in turn down-regulated the Akt-ERK1/2-NFκB signaling pathway. Melatonin reduced ELT3 tumor growth in both xenograft and orthotopic uterine tumor mice models. The extracellular matrix of the tumor was also reduced by melatonin treatment. Taken together, these results suggest that melatonin potentially plays a role in suppression of uterine leiomyoma growth.

Synbiotic Combination of Djulis (Chenopodium formosanum) and Lactobacillus acidophilus Inhibits Colon Carcinogenesis in Rats

Djulis is a functional grain containing prebiotic dietary fiber, which has an anti-cancer potential. This study examined the preventive effect of djulis alone or in combination with Lactobacillus acidophilus on colon carcinogenesis induced by 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (DMH) and dextran sulfate sodium (DSS). Rats were divided into five groups and fed B (AIN-93G, blank), C (AIN-93G, control), D (10% djulis), DLA (10% djulis plus 5 × 10⁶ cfu L. acidophilus/g), and DHA (10% djulis plus 5 × 10⁷ cfu L. acidophilus/g) diets, respectively. All rats except for those in group B received three doses of DMH (40 mg/kg) by intraperitoneal injection and 3% DSS in drinking water. After 10 weeks of feeding, the colon was analyzed for precancerous lesions and biomarkers. DMH and DSS treatment induced aberrant crypt foci (ACF), especially in the distal colon. D, DLA, and DHA significantly reduced the numbers of total ACF, sialomucin-producing ACF (SIM-ACF), and mucin-depleted foci (MDF) in the distal colon compared to C. Additionally, DLA and DHA further downregulated the expressions of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and regulated apoptosis-related proteins. These results suggest that synbiotic combination of djulis and L. acidophilus shows the best inhibitory effect on colon carcinogenesis via regulation of proliferative, inflammatory, and apoptotic pathways.