In vitro and in vivo anticancer potential and molecular targets of the new colchicine analog IIIM-067 / 中西医结合学报

OBJECTIVE@#The current study evaluated various new colchicine analogs for their anticancer activity and to study the primary mechanism of apoptosis and in vivo antitumor activity of the analogs with selective anticancer properties and minimal toxicity to normal cells.@*METHODS@#Sulforhodamine B (SRB) assay was used to screen various colchicine analogs for their in vitro cytotoxicity. The effect of N-[(7S)-1,2,3-trimethoxy-9-oxo-10-(pyrrolidine-1-yl)5,6,7,9-tetrahydrobenzo[a] heptalene-7-yl] acetamide (IIIM-067) on clonogenicity, apoptotic induction, and invasiveness of A549 cells was determined using a clonogenic assay, scratch assay, and staining with 4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI) and annexin V/propidium iodide. Mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were observed using fluorescence microscopy. Western blot analysis was used to quantify expression of proteins involved in apoptosis, cell cycle, and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling. Pharmacokinetic and in vivo efficacy studies against Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC) and Ehrlich solid tumor models were conducted using Swiss albino mice.@*RESULTS@#IIIM-067 showed potent cytotoxicity and better selectivity than all other colchicine analogs screened in this study. The selective activity of IIIM-067 toward A549 cells was higher among other cancer cell lines, with a selectivity index (SI) value of 2.28. IIIM-067 demonstrated concentration- and time-dependent cytotoxicity against A549 cells with half-maximal inhibitory concentration values of 0.207, 0.150 and 0.106 μmol/L at 24, 48 and 72 h, respectively. It also had reduced toxicity to normal cells (SI > 1) than the parent compound colchicine (SI = 1). IIIM-067 reduced the clonogenic ability of A549 cells in a dose-dependent manner. IIIM-067 enhanced ROS production from 24.6% at 0.05 μmol/L to 82.1% at 0.4 μmol/L and substantially decreased the MMP (100% in control to 5.6% at 0.4 μmol/L). The annexin V-FITC assay demonstrated 78% apoptosis at 0.4 μmol/L. IIIM-067 significantly (P < 0.5) induced the expression of various intrinsic apoptotic pathway proteins, and it differentially regulated the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. Furthermore, IIIM-067 exhibited remarkable in vivo anticancer activity against the murine EAC model, with tumor growth inhibition (TGI) of 67.0% at a dose of 6 mg/kg (i.p.) and a reduced mortality compared to colchicine. IIIM-067 also effectively inhibited the tumor growth in the murine solid tumor model with TGI rates of 48.10%, 55.68% and 44.00% at doses of 5 mg/kg (i.p.), 6 mg/kg (i.p.) and 7 mg/kg (p.o.), respectively.@*CONCLUSION@#IIIM-067 exhibited significant anticancer activity with reduced toxicity both in vitro and in vivo and is a promising anticancer candidate. However, further studies are required in clinical settings to fully understand its potential.

Cytotoxic effect of hydroalcoholic extract of Cota tinctoria (L) J. Gay on AGS and Hep-G2 cancer cell lines / Efecto citotóxico del extracto hidroalcohólico de Cota tinctoria (L) J. Gay sobre líneas celulares de cáncer AGS y Hep-G2

Cota tinctoria is a medicinal plant which has been used for management of cancer in folk medicine of various regions. The aim of present study is to investigate cytotoxic activity of different concentrations of hydroalcoholic extract of C. tinctoria flowers on gastric (AGS) and liver (Hep-G2) cancer cell lines as well as Human Natural GUM fibroblast (HUGU) cells. Cell mortality rates were examined after 24, 48 and 72 h incubations using the MTT assay. IC50of extract on AGS cells after 24, 48 and 72h was 1.46, 1.29 and 1.14 µg/mL respectively. The extract demonstrated IC50 of 5.15, 3.92 and 2.89 µg/mL on Hep-G2 cells after 24, 48 and 72 h respectively. No cytotoxic effect was detected on HUGU (Human Natural GUM fibroblast) cells. C. tinctoria seems to have a promising potential to be considered as a source for anticancer drug discovery. However, more experimental and clinical studies are required.

Cota tinctoria es una planta medicinal que se ha utilizado para el tratamiento del cáncer en la medicina popular de varias regiones. El objetivo del presente estudio es investigar la actividad citotóxica de diferentes concentraciones de extracto hidroalcohólico de flores de C. tinctoria en líneas celulares de cáncer gástrico (AGS) e hígado (Hep-G2), así como en células de fibroblasto GUM humano natural (HUGU). Se examinaron las tasas de mortalidad celular después de incubaciones de 24, 48 y 72 h utilizando el ensayo MTT. La CI50 del extracto en células AGS después de 24, 48 y 72 h fue de 1,46; 1,29 y 1,14 µg respectivamente. El extracto demostró una CI50 de 5,15, 3,92 y 2,89 µg/mL en células Hep-G2 después de 24, 48 y 72 h, respectivamente. No se detectó ningún efecto citotóxico en las células HUGU (fibroblasto GUM humano natural). C. tinctoria parece tener un potencial prometedor para ser considerada como una fuente de descubrimiento de fármacos contra el cáncer. Sin embargo, se requieren más estudios experimentales y clínicos.

Investigation of effect of paclitaxel on netrin 1 and factor 8 in Ehrlich solid tumors / Investigación del efecto del paclitaxel en netrina 1 y factor 8 en tumores sólidos de Ehrlich

SUMMARY: Cancer known as a malignant tumor, is a class of diseases involving abnormal cell growth with the potential to invade or spread to other parts of the body. The Ehrlich tumor is a mammary adenocarcinoma of mice developed in solid and ascitic forms. This study was aimed to investigate the effects of paclitaxel on Netrin 1 and Factor 8 expression and also in tumor cell proliferation, apoptosis, angiogenesis, and development of tumor in Ehrlich solid tumors treated with paclitaxel. In this study, 26 adult Balb/C male mice were used. 6 of them were used as stock. Ehrlich ascites cells taken from animals in stock were injected subcutaneously from the neck area to all animals. The mice were randomly assigned to two groups of ten rats per group. Paclitaxel treatment group 10 mg/kg were administered to mice intraperitoneally (i.p.) 4,9, and 14th days. 15th day the animals were sacrificed and tumor tissues were taken. Paraffin-embedded solid tumor sections were stained Hematoxylin & Eosin, Masson's Trichrome. Also solid tumor sections were stained immunohistochemically with Netrin1 and Factor 8. Tunel method was applied to determine apoptosis. Paclitaxel applied as a therapeutic Ehrlich solid tumor reduced the volume of tumors in the treatment groups. At the end of the experiments, in the treatment groups' significantly reduced the Netrin 1 expression and microvessel density compared to the group control. Also paclitaxel in the treatment group increased the number of apoptotic cells. We suggest that decreasing the expression of Netrin 1 would be reduced vessel density and increased apoptosis.

RESUMEN: El cáncer, conocido como tumor maligno, es una clase de enfermedad que involucra un crecimiento celular anormal con potencial de invadir o diseminarse a otras partes del cuerpo. El tumor de Ehrlich es un adenocarcinoma mamario de ratones desarrollado en formas sólidas y ascíticas. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo investigar los efectos del paclitaxel en la expresión de Netrin 1 y Factor 8 y también en la proliferación de células tumorales, apoptosis, angiogénesis y desarrollo de tumores sólidos de Ehrlich tratados con paclitaxel. En esta investigación se utilizaron 26 ratones machos Balb / C adultos. Seis de ellos se utilizaron como stock. Se inyectaron por vía subcutánea células de ascitis de Ehrlich tomadas de animales en la zona del cuello. Los ratones se asignaron aleatoriamente a dos grupos de diez ratas por grupo. Se administraron 10 mg/kg del grupo de tratamiento con paclitaxel a ratones por vía intraperitoneal (i.p.) 4, 9 y 14 días. El día 15 se sacrificaron los animales y se extrajeron los tejidos tumorales. Las secciones de tumor sólido incluidas en parafina se tiñeron con hematoxilina y eosina y tricrómico de Masson. También se tiñeron inmunohisto-químicamente secciones de tumor sólido con Netrin1 y Factor 8. Se aplicó el método Tunel para determinar la apoptosis. El paclitaxel aplicado como tumor sólido terapéutico de Ehrlich redujo el volumen de tumores en los grupos de tratamiento. Al final de los experimentos, en los grupos de tratamiento se redujo significativamente la expresión de Netrin 1 y la densidad de microvasos en comparación con el grupo control. Además, el paclitaxel en el grupo tratamiento aumentó el número de células apoptóticas. Sugerimos que la disminución de la expresión de Netrin 1 reduciría la densidad de los vasos y aumentaría la apoptosis.

Juniperus communis extract induces cell cycle arrest and apoptosis of colorectal adenocarcinoma in vitro and in vivo

Juniperus communis (JCo) is a well-known traditional Chinese medicinal plant that has been used to treat wounds, fever, swelling, and rheumatism. However, the mechanism underlying the anticancer effect of JCo extract on colorectal cancer (CRC) has not yet been elucidated. This study investigated the anticancer effects of JCo extract in vitro and in vivo as well as the precise molecular mechanisms. Cell viability was evaluated using the MTT assay. Cell cycle distribution was examined by flow cytometry analysis, and cell apoptosis was determined by the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay. Protein expression was analyzed using western blotting. The in vivo activity of the JCo extract was evaluated using a xenograft BALB/c mouse model. The tumors and organs were examined through hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining and immunohistochemistry. The results showed that JCo extract exhibited higher cytotoxicity against CRC cells than against normal cells and showed synergistic effects when combined with 5-fluorouracil. JCo extract induced cell cycle arrest at the G0/G1 phase via regulation of p53/p21 and CDK4/cyclin D1 and induced cell apoptosis via the extrinsic (FasL/Fas/caspase-8) and intrinsic (Bax/Bcl-2/caspase-9) apoptotic pathways. In vivo studies revealed that JCo extract suppressed tumor growth through the inhibition of proliferation and induction of apoptosis. In addition, there was no obvious change in body weight or histological morphology of normal organs after treatment. JCo extract suppressed CRC progression by inducing cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in vitro and in vivo, suggesting the potential application of JCo extract in the treatment of CRC.

Isolation of Polyphenols from Soursop Annona muricata L Leaves Using Green Chemistry Techniques and their Anticancer Effect

HIGHLIGHTS Isolate, fractionate and characterize extracts obtained from soursop leaves. Use of emerging green technologies such as microwave-ultrasound hybridization. The extracts contain kaempferol, procyanidins, catechin, and quercetin. The total ethanolic extract demonstrates cytotoxic effect on HeLa cells.

Abstract Cervical cancer is classified as the fourth most common malignancy in women. Natural compounds are a therapeutic alternative in cancer therapy. The aim of the study is to isolate, fractionate, and characterize extracts obtained from soursop leaves (Annona muricata L.) and determine their cytotoxic effect against HeLa cervical cancer cells and non-carcinogenic fibroblast 3T3 cells. The phytochemicals of soursop leaves were extracted through emerging green technologies such as the novel use of microwave-ultrasound hybridization and the use of environmentally friendly solvents (water and ethanol), in addition to the purification of extracts enriched in polyphenols by liquid chromatography with Amberlite XAD-16. Total aqueous and ethanolic extract were purified, as well as the fraction one of each extract. The extracts recovered from soursop leaves contained kaempferol and its isomers, procyanidins, catechin, and quercetin. The viability of the cells was determined with the MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay. HeLa and 3T3 cells were exposed to concentrations of 25, 50, 75, 100, 150, 200, and 250 ppm of a solution of soursop leaf extract powder. The MTT assay showed that soursop leaf extracts were toxic to both cell lines in general, however, the ethanolic extract at 25 and 50 ppm demonstrated inhibition in cell viability against the HeLa cancer line and low cytotoxicity for 3T3 fibroblast cells. In conclusion, the novel microwave-ultrasound hybridization technology allows the extraction of polyphenols that may have a potential cytotoxic effect on cancer cells.

Germacranolide sesquiterpenes from Carpesium cernuum and their anti-leukemia activity / 中国天然药物

In this study, three new germacranolide sesquiterpenes (1-3), together with six related known analogues (4-9) were isolated from the whole plant of Carpesium cernuum. Their structures were established by a combination of extensive NMR spectroscopic analysis, HR-ESIMS data, and ECD calculations. The anti-leukemia activities of all compounds towards three cell lines (HEL, KG-1a, and K562) were evaluated in vitro. Compounds 1-3 exhibited moderate cytotoxicity with IC

Preparation of paclitaxel-loaded and folic acid-modified poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) nano-micelles and in vitro anticancer effect on cervical cancer HeLa cells / 中国中药杂志

The paclitaxel-loaded and folic acid-modified poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nano-micelles(PTX@FA-PLGA-NMs) were prepared by the emulsion solvent evaporation method, and the parameters of paclitaxel-loaded nano-micelles were optimized with the particle size and PDI as evaluation indexes. The morphology of the nano-micelles was observed by transmission electron microscopy(TEM), and the stability, drug loading and encapsulation efficiency were systematically investigated. In vitro experiments were performed to study the cytotoxic effects of nano-micelles, apoptosis, and cellular uptake. Under the optimal parameters, the nano-micelles showed the particle size of(125.3±1.2) nm, the PDI of 0.086±0.026, the zeta potential of(-20.0±3.8) mV, the drug loading of 7.2%±0.75%, and the encapsulation efficiency of 50.7%±1.0%. The nano-micelles were in regular spherical shape as observed by TEM. The blank FA-PLGA-NMs exhibited almost no inhibitory effect on the proliferation and growth of tumor cells, while the drug-loaded nano-micelles and free PTX exhibited significant inhibitory effects. The IC_(50) of PTX@FA-PLGA-NMs and PTX was 0.56 μg·mL~(-1) and 0.66 μg·mL~(-1), respectively. The paclitaxel-loaded nano-micelles were potent in inhibiting cell migration as assessed by the scratch assay. PTX@FA-PLGA-NMs had good pro-apoptotic effect on cervical cancer HeLa cells and significantly promoted the uptake of HeLa cells. The results of in vitro experiments suggested that PTX@FA-PLGA-NMs could target and treat cervical cancer HeLa cells. Therefore, as nanodrug carriers, PTX@FA-PLGA-NMs with anti-cancer activity are a promising nano-system for improving the-rapeutic effects on tumors.

Research progress on the source, production, and anti-cancer mechanisms of paclitaxel / 中国天然药物

Paclitaxel, a tetracyclic diterpenoid compounds, was firstly isolated from the bark of the Pacific yew trees. Currently, as a low toxicity, high efficiency, and broad-spectrum natural anti-cancer drug, paclitaxel has been widely used against ovarian cancer, breast cancer, uterine cancer, and other cancers. As the matter of fact, natural paclitaxel from Taxus species has been proved to be environmentally unsustainable and economically unfeasible. For this reason, researchers from all over the world are devoted to searching for new ways of obtaining paclitaxel. At present, other methods, including artificial cultivation of Taxus plants, microbial fermentation, chemical synthesis, tissue and cell culture have been sought and developed subsequently. Meanwhile, the biosynthesis of paclitaxel is also an extremely attractive method. Unlike other anti-cancer drugs, paclitaxel has its unique anti-cancer mechanisms. Here, the source, production, and anti-cancer mechanisms of paclitaxel were summarized and reviewed, which can provide theoretical basis and reference for further research on the production, anti-cancer mechanisms and utilization of paclitaxel.

Isolation of dihydrobenzofuran derivatives from ethnomedicinal species Polygonum barbatum as anticancer compounds

BACKGROUND: Ethnomedicinally, the family Polygonaceae is famous for the management of cancer. Various species of this family have been reported with anticancer potentials. This study was designed to isolate anticancer compounds from ethnomedicinally important species Polygonum barbatum. METHODS: The column chromatography was used for the isolation of compounds from the solvent fraction of P. barbatum. The characterization of isolated compounds was performed by various spectroscopic techniques like UV, IR, mass spectrometry and 1D-2D NMR spectroscopy. Keeping in view the ethnomedicinal importance of the family, genus and species of P barbatum, the isolated compounds (1-3) were screened for anticancer potentials against oral cancer (CAL-27) and lungs cancer (NCI H460) cell lines using MTT assay. Active compound was further investigated for apoptosis by using morphological changes and flow cytometry analysis. In vivo anti-angiogenic study of the isolated compounds was also carried using chorioallantoic membrane assay. Docking studies were carried out to explore the mechanism of anticancer activity. RESULTS: Three dihydrobenzofuran derivatives (1-3) have been isolated from the ethyl acetate fraction of P. barbatum. The structures of isolated compounds were elucidated as methyl (2S,3S)-2-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)-4-((E)-3-ethoxy-3-oxoprop-1-en-1-yl)-7-methoxy-2,3-dihydrobenzo-furan-3-carboxylate (1), (E)-3-((2S,3S)-2-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)-7-methoxy-3-(methoxy carbonyl)-2,3-dihydrobenzofuran-4-yl)acrylic acid (2) and (2S,3 S)-4-((E)-2-carboxyvinyl)-2-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)-7-hydroxy-2,3-dihydrobenzofuran-3-carboxylic acid (3). The compound 1 was found to be more potent with IC50 of 48.52 ± 0.95 and 53.24 ± 1.49 against oral cancer cells as compared to standard drug (IC50 = 97.76 ± 3.44 µM). Both compound also inhibited lung cancer cells but at higher concentrations. Morphological and flow cytometry analysis further confirms that compound 1 induces apoptosis after 24 to 48 h treatment. In antiangiogenesis assay, compounds 1, 2 and 3 exhibited IC50 values of 8.2 ± 1.1,13.4 ± 1.1 and 57.7 ± 0.3 µM respectively. The docking studies revealed that the compounds under study have the potential to target the DNA and thymidylate synthase (TS). CONCLUSION: Based on its overwhelming potency against the tested cell lines and in angiogenesis assay, compound 1 can be further evaluated mechanistically and can be developed as anticancer drug candidate.

Psoralen inhibits malignant proliferation and induces apoptosis through triggering endoplasmic reticulum stress in human SMMC7721 hepatoma cells

BACKGROUND: Psoralen is a coumarin-like and coumarin-related benzofuran glycoside, which is a commonly used traditional Chinese medicine to treat patients with kidney and spleen-yang deficiency symptom. Psoralen has been reported to show estrogen-like activity, antioxidant activity, osteoblastic proliferation accelerating activity, antitumor effects and antibacterial activity. However, the antitumor mechanism of psoralen is not fully understood. This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic efficacy of psoralen in human hepatoma cell line SMMC7721 and the mechanism of antitumor effects. RESULTS: Psoralen inhibited proliferation of SMMC7721 in a dose- and time-dependent manner, and promoted apoptosis. Further, psoralen activated the ER stress signal pathway, including the expansion of endoplasmic reticulum, increasing the mRNA levels of GRP78, DDIT3, ATF4, XBP1, GADD34 and the protein levels of GDF15, GRP78, IRE1α, XBP-1s in a time-dependent manner. Psoralen induces cell cycle arrest at G1 phase by enhancing CyclinD1 and reducing CyclinE1 expression. Moreover, TUDC couldn't inhibit the psoralen-induced ER stress in SMMC7721 cells. CONCLUSIONS: Psoralen can inhibit the proliferation of SMMC7721 cells and induce ER stress response to induce cell apoptosis, suggesting that psoralen may represent a novel therapeutic option for the prevention and treatment hepatocellular carcinoma.

Icariin reduces human colon carcinoma cell growth and metastasis by enhancing p53 activities

Icariin has been reported to possess high anticancer activity. Colon carcinoma is one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Here, the anticancer activity of icariin against HCT116 colon carcinoma cells and the possible underlying mechanism were studied. The trypan blue staining assay, wound healing assay, clonogenic assay, CCK-8 assay, and Annexin V-FITC/PI double staining method were carried out to determine the changes of HCT116 cell growth and migration. mRNA and protein expressions were determined by quantitative real-time PCR and western blot, respectively. Moreover, small interfering RNA (siRNA) plasmid was used to examine the role of p53 in icariin-induced apoptosis in HCT116 cells. Icariin significantly suppressed colon carcinoma HCT116 cells by decreasing migration and viability, and simultaneously promoting apoptosis. Icariin exerted the anti-tumor effect in a dose-dependent manner by up-regulating p53. During treatment of icariin, p-p53, p21, and Bax levels increased, and Bcl-2 level decreased. Short time treatment with icariin induced DNA damage in HCT116 cells. Furthermore, the cytotoxicity of icariin was decreased after p53 knockdown or by using caspase inhibitors. p53 was involved in activities of caspase-9 and caspase-3. Icariin repressed colon carcinoma cell line HCT116 by enhancing p53 expression and activating p53 functions possibly through Bcl-2/Bax imbalance and caspase-9 and -3 regulation. Icariin treatment also induced DNA damage in HCT116 cells.

Phenolic profile and antioxidant activity from peels and seeds of melon (Cucumis melo L. var. reticulatus) and their antiproliferative effect in cancer cells

Melon (Cucumis melo L.) has high economic value and in recent years, its production has increased; however, part of the fruit is wasted. Usually, inedible parts such as peel and seeds are discarded during processing and consumption. Extracts of melon residues were prepared and their phenolic compounds, antioxidants and antiproliferative activities were evaluated. Total phenolic compounds were found in hydroethanolic, hydromethanolic, and aqueous extracts, especially for melon peel (1.016 mg gallic acid equivalent/100 g). Flavonoids total content found for melon peel aqueous extract was 262 µg of catechin equivalent (CA)/100 g. In all extracts of melon peel significant amounts of gallic acid, catechin, and eugenol were found. For total antioxidant capacity, reported as ascorbic acid equivalent, the hydroethanolic and hydromethanolic extracts in peels and hydromethanolic in seeds were 89, 74, and 83 mg/g, respectively. Different extracts of melon showed iron and copper ions chelating activity at different concentrations, especially melon peel aqueous extract, reaching values of 61% for iron and 84% for copper. The hydroethanolic extract of melon peel presented a significant ability for hydroxyl radicals scavenging (68%). To assess the antiproliferative potential in human cancer cell lines, such as kidney carcinoma, colorectal carcinoma, cervical adenocarcinoma and cervical carcinoma, MTT assay was performed. The proliferation was inhibited by 20-85% at extracts concentrations of 0.1-1.0 mg/mL in all cancer cell lines. The results suggest that melon residues extracts display a high antioxidant activity in in vitro assays and have effective biological activity against the growth of human tumor cells.

Tea polyphenols induce S phase arrest and apoptosis in gallbladder cancer cells

Gallbladder cancer (GBC) is the most common malignancy in the biliary tract. Without effective treatment, its prognosis is notoriously poor. Tea polyphenols (TPs) have many pharmacological and health benefits, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, anti-thrombotic, antibacterial, and vasodilatory properties. However, the anti-cancer effect of TPs in human gallbladder cancer has not yet been determined. Cell viability and colony formation assay were used to investigate the cell growth. Cell cycle and apoptosis were evaluated by flow cytometry analysis. Western blot assay was used to detect the expression of proteins related to cell cycle and apoptosis. Human tumor xenografts were used to examine the effect of TPs on gallbladder cancer cells in vivo. TPs significantly inhibited cell growth of gallbladder cancer cell lines in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Cell cycle progression in GBC cells was blocked at the S phase by TPs. TPs also induced mitochondrial-related apoptosis in GBC cells by upregulating Bax, cleaved caspase-3, and cleaved PARP expressions and downregulating Bcl-2, cyclin A, and Cdk2 expressions. The effects of TPs on GBC were further proven in vivo in a mouse xenograft model. Our study is the first to report that TPs inhibit GBC cell growth and these compounds may have potential as novel therapeutic agents for treating gallbladder cancer.

Improved antimelanogenesis and antioxidant effects of polysaccharide from Cuscuta chinensis Lam seeds after enzymatic hydrolysis

Cuscuta chinensis polysaccharide (CPS) was extracted using hot water and enzymatically hydrolyzed C. chinensis polysaccharide (ECPS) was produced by the mannase enzymatic hydrolysis process. The purpose of this research was to investigate the antimelanogenic activity of ECPS and CPS in B16F10 melanoma cells. The in vitro antioxidant activity was assessed by their ferric iron reducing power and DPPH free radical scavenging activities. The molecular mass distribution of polysaccharides was determined using SEC-MALLS-RI. CPS was successfully enzymatically degraded using mannase and the weighted average molecular weights of CPS and ECPS were 434.6 kDa and 211.7 kDa. The results of biological activity assays suggested that the enzymatically hydrolyzed polysaccharide had superior antimelanogenic activity and antioxidant effect than the original polysaccharide. ECPS exhibited antimelanogenic activity by down-regulating the expression of tyrosinase, MITF, and TRP-1 without cytotoxic effects in B16F10 melanoma cells. In conclusion, ECPS have the potential to become a skin whitening product.

Evaluation of cytotoxic and antitumoral properties of Tessaria absinthioides (Hook & Arn) DC, "pájaro bobo", aqueous extract

Higher plants have provided various natural derived drugs used currently in western medicine. Tessaria absinthioides (Hook. & Arn.) DC, Asteraceae, is a native plant from South-America with reported ethnopharmacological and culinary uses. Despite recent scientific reports about plants properties, there is not a well conducted research about its anticancer and potential toxic effects. The current work demonstrates the plant aqueous extract composition; the in vitro induced cytotoxicity, and explores, in vivo, its oral toxicity and antitumoral effects. Composition of aqueous extract was determined by phytochemical reactions. Cytotoxicity was tested in tumoral (Hela, Gli-37, HCT-116 and MCF-7) and non-tumoral (HBL-100) cells, using MTT assay. Oral toxicity and the antitumor activity against colorectal carcinoma were studied in rodents. The chemical analysis revealed the presence of flavonoids, carbohydrates, sterols, terpenes and tannins. Cytotoxicity towards tumoral cells was observed (CV50: 3.0 to 14.8 μg/ml); while in non-tumoral cells, extracts evidenced a selective reduced toxicity (CV50: 29.5 μg/ml). Oral administration of the extract does not induce acute nor dose-repeated toxicity at doses up to 2000 mg/kg and 1000 mg/kg/day, respectively. The antitumoral effect was confirmed by a significant increase in a median survival from 24 weeks (non-treated) to 30 weeks (T. absinthioides treated). The present data indicate that T. absinthioides extract exhibits cytotoxicity against cancer cell lines, with no-toxic effects and significant antitumoral effects in colorectal cancer when is orally administrated. In conclusion, T. absinthioides possesses selective cytotoxicity and antitumoral activities, making its plant derivatives products promising for cancer research and treatment.

Las plantas superiores han provisto numerosos derivados naturales usados actualmente por la medicina occidental. Tessaria absinthioides (Hook & Arn) DC, Asteraceae, es una planta autóctona de Sudamérica con informes de uso etnofarmacológico y culinario. A pesar de los reportes científicos sobre las propiedades de esta planta, no existen estudios que caractericen sus efectos antitumorales ni sus efectos tóxicos. En el presente trabajo se describe la composición del extracto acuoso de T. absinthioides, sus propiedades citotóxicas in vitro, y explora in vivo la toxicidad oral y su capacidad de afectar la progresión de tumores. La composición se determinó mediante reacciones fitoquímicas. La citotoxicidad se estudió en líneas celulares tumorales (Gli-37, HeLa, HCT-116 y MCF-7) y no tumorales (HBL-100), utilizando el ensayo de MTT. La toxicidad oral de los extractos y su capacidad antitumoral sobre carcinoma colorrectal se analizaron en roedores. El análisis del extracto acuoso evidenció flavonoides, carbohidratos, esteroles, terpenos y taninos. La citotoxicidad sobre células tumorales resultó similar a la observada para el 5-fluoracilo (CV50: 3.0 a 14.8 μg/ml); mientras que, en células no tumorales, el efecto estuvo selectivamente reducido (CV50: 29.5 μg/ml). La administración oral del extracto no indujo toxicidad aguda ni a dosis repetidas (dosis hasta 2000 mg/kg y 1000 mg/kg/día, respectivamente). Los efectos antitumorales se confirmaron mediante un significativo aumento de la supervivencia en el grupo tratado con T. absinthioides. En conclusión, de acuerdo a los resultados obtenidos, T. absinthioides y sus derivados naturales representan un campo prometedor de estudio para la investigación en el tratamiento del cáncer.

Proteomic changes in a childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia cell line during the adaptation to vincristine / Cambios en el proteoma de una línea celular de leucemia linfoblástica aguda infantil durante la adaptación a vincristina

Abstract: Introduction: Relapse occurs in approximately 20% of Mexican patients with childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). In this group, chemoresistance may be one of the biggest challenges. An overview of complex cellular processes like drug tolerance can be achieved with proteomic studies. Methods: The B-lineage pediatric ALL cell line CCRF-SB was gradually exposed to the chemotherapeutic vincristine until proliferation was observed at 6 nM, control cells were cultured in the absence of vincristine. The proteome from each group was analyzed by nanoHPLC coupled to an ESI-ion trap mass spectrometer. The identified proteins were grouped into over-represented functional categories with the PANTHER classification system. Results: We found 135 proteins exclusively expressed in the presence of vincristine. The most represented functional categories were: Toll receptor signaling pathway, Ras Pathway, B and T cell activation, CCKR signaling map, cytokine-mediated signaling pathway, and oxidative phosphorylation. Conclusions: Our study indicates that signal transduction and mitochondrial ATP production are essential during adaptation of leukemic cells to vincristine, these processes represent potential therapeutic targets.

Resumen: Introducción: Aproximadamente el 20% de los pacientes mexicanos con leucemia linfoblástica aguda (LLA) infantil presentan recaídas. En este grupo, la quimiorresistencia es uno de los principales desafíos. Los estudios proteómicos pueden dar un panorama general de procesos celulares complejos como la tolerancia a fármacos. Métodos: La línea celular de LLA de linaje B, CCRF-SB, fue expuesta de manera gradual al fármaco quimioterapéutico vincristina hasta observar proliferación celular en presencia de 6 nM, como control se cultivaron células en ausencia del fármaco. Se analizó el proteoma de cada grupo mediante nanoHPLC acoplado a un espectrómetro de masas de tipo trampa de iones. Las proteínas identificadas se agruparon en categorías funcionales sobre-representadas con el sistema de clasificación PANTHER. Resultados: Encontramos 135 proteínas expresadas exclusivamente en presencia de vincristina. Las categorías funcionales más representadas fueron la señalización asociada a los receptores tipo Toll, señalización dependiente de Ras, activación de células B y T, mapa de señalización CCKR, señalización mediada por citoquinas y la fosforilación oxidativa. Conclusiones: Nuestro estudio indica que la transducción de señales y la producción de ATP mitocondrial son procesos esenciales durante la adaptación de células leucémicas a vincristina por lo que estos procesos representan potenciales blancos terapéuticos.

Anatomical aspects, chemical analysis and cytotoxic effect of the essential oil from leaves of Casearia arborea (Salicaceae) / Aspectos anatómicos, análisis químico y efecto citotóxico del aceite esencial de Casearia arborea (Salicaceae)

The genus Casearia (Salicaceae) is found in sub-tropical and tropical regions of the world and comprises about 200 species. In Brazil, there are about 48 species and 12 are registered in the State of Rio de Janeiro; including Casearia arborea (Rich.) Urb. Essential oil was obtained from the fresh leaves by hydrodistillation and analyzed by GC-MS and GC-FID. The cytotoxic effect was determined by WST-1 assay. Chemical analysis of the essential oil revealed a very diversified (n = 37 compounds) volatile fraction composed mainly of non-oxygenated sesquiterpenes (90.2%). These sesquiterpenes included byciclogermacrene (18.7%), germacrene D (12.1%) and α-humulene (11.5%). In addition, the essential oil demonstrated cytotoxic effects against A549 tumor cells in the concentration of 4 µg/mL (EC50) (p < 0.05).

El género Casearia (Salicáceas) se encuentra en las regiones tropicales y sub-tropicales del planeta y comprende alrededor de 200 especies. En Brasil existen 48 especies, 12 de las cuales fueron registradas en el Estado de Río de Janeiro incluyendo Casearia arborea (Rich.) Urb. El aceite esencial fue extraído de hojas frescas por hidrodestilación y analizado por GC-MS y GC-FID. El efecto citotóxico fue determinado por ensayo WST-1. Las cavidades secretorias fueron ocasionalmente encontradas tanto en la lámina foliar como en el pecíolo. El análisis químico del aceite esencial reveló una muy diversa fracción volátil (n = 37 compuestos) formada principalmente por sesquiterpenos no oxigenados (90,2%). Estos sesquiterpenos incluyen biciclogermacreno (18,7%), germacreno D (12,1%) y α-humuleno (11,5%). Además, el aceite esencial demostró efectos citotóxicos contra las células tumorales A549 en una concentración de 4µg/mL (EC50) (p < 0.05).

Comparative study on the preventive effect of saffron carotenoids, crocin and crocetin, in NMU-induced breast cancer in rats

Objective: Crocin [Cro] and crocetin [Crt] are two widely known saffron carotenoids, which exert anticancer effects by different mechanisms. Here, we investigated and compared the preventive effect of Cro and Crt at the initiation and promotion stages of breast cancer induction in an animal model

Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, female Wistar albino rats were injected with three doses of N-methyl-N-nitrosourea [NMU]. The preventive intervention was done at different times for the initiation and promotion stages. Thus, Cro/Crt was administered by gavage 20 days before, or one week after, the first NMU injection, for the prevention at the initiation or promotion stages respectively. The treatment was repeated every three days, and continued up to the end of experiment. Tumor appearance was checked by palpation and some parameters were determined after sacrifice

Results: Tumor volume, latency period, and tumor number were significantly decreased in the rat groups treated with both saffron carotenoids for prevention at both the initiation and promotion stages. Tumor incidence was 77% due to NMU injection, which was decreased to 45 and 33% [on average] after Cro and Crt administration, respectively. In addition, enkephaline degrading aminopeptidase [EDA] was decreased significantly in the ovaries of the animals, however, changes in the brain were not significant

Conclusion: Crt/Cro showed a significant protective effect against the NMU-induced breast cancer in rats. However, Crt was more effective than Cro and prevention at the initiation stage was more effective than at the promotion stage

Isolation of breast cancer stem cell from MDA-MB231 cell line using vincristine / Aislamiento de células madre de cáncer de mama de la línea celular MDA-MB231 utilizando vincristina

Cancer has been considered as a stem cell disease. Suspension culture combined with anti-cancer drugs has recently been proposed for isolation of cancer stem cells (CSCs). In the current study, Vincristine as an anti-cancer drug combined with suspension culture was used for isolation and purification of CSCs from human breast cancer cell line (MDA-MB231). The cells were treated with different concentrations of vincristine (0, 2, 4, 6 and 8 ng/ml). Stem cells were identified with the expression of OCT4, nanog, SOX2 and nucleostemin genes by RT-PCR. Mammosphere forming unit was measured upon suspension culture containing EGF, bFGF, LIF, B27, insulin and BSA. The isolated mammospheres were investigated for CD44 expression. Results showed that 4 ng/ml of vincristine for 72 hours could be utilized as the best and most reliable dose which eliminates around 80 % of non-cancer stem cells with no destructive effect on CSCs' viability (P> 0.05). RT-PCR demonstrated that drug treated cells expressed OCT4, nanog, SOX2 and nucleostemin. Mammosphere formation unit of cells pretreated with vincristine was significantly higher than unpretreated ones (P>0.05). Immunofluorescence staining for CD44 depicted high expression of CSC marker among the isolated mammospheres. Vincristine combined with suspension culture can be considered as an appropriate method to isolate CSC.

El cáncer ha sido considerado como una enfermedad de células madre. Recientemente se ha propuesto cultivo en suspensión en combinación con medicamentos contra el cáncer para aislamiento de las células madre del cáncer (CMC). En este estudio se utilizó la vincristina como fármaco anticanceroso combinado con cultivo en suspensión para el aislamiento y purificación de las células madre cancerosas, de la línea celular de cáncer de mama humano (MDA-MB231). Las células se trataron con diferentes concentraciones de vincristina (0, 2, 4, 6 y 8 ng/ml). Las células madre se identificaron mediante la expresión de los genes OCT4, Nanog, SOX2 y nucleostemin por RT-PCR. La unidad de formación mammosphere se midió a través de cultivo en suspensión que contenía EGF, bFGF, LIF, B27, insulina y BSA. Los mammospheres aislados fueron estudiados para la expresión de CD44. Los resultados mostraron que 4 ng/ml de vincristina durante 72 horas podrían ser utilizados como la mejor y más fiable dosis que permite eliminar alrededor del 80 % de las células madre no cancerosas, sin causar un efecto destructivo sobre la viabilidad de las CMC (P> 0,05). La RT-PCR mostró que en las células tratadas con él fármaco hubo expresión de los genes OCT4, Nanog, SOX2 y nucleostemin. La unidad de formación de las células pretratadas con vincristina fue significativamente más alta que las unidades sin tratamiento previo (P>0,05). La inmunofluorescencia para CD44 muestró una alta expresión del marcador de CMC entre mammospheres aisladas. La vincristina en combinación con el cultivo en suspensión puede ser considerado como un método apropiado para aislar CMC.

The anti-cancerous activity of recombinant trichosanthin on prostate cancer cell PC3

CONTEXT: Trichosanthin produced in the root tube of Trichosanthes kirilowii shows anti-tumor activity on a series of cancer cells including Hela, MCF-7, HL-60. But there is little information about its effect on the carcinogenesis of prostate cancer. OBJECTIVE: This work was designed to study the role of trichosanthin on prostate cancer cells PC3. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Trichosanthin was expressed in BL21 strain and purified by affinity chromatography. MTT assay was designed to determine the effect of trichosanthin on growth of PC3 cells at doses of 10, 20, 40, 60, 80, and 120 µg/ml.Then the effect of 50 µg/ml rTCS alone or combined with 2 µM IL-2 on PC3 cell proliferation was analyzed. And the mechanism of rTCS was studied by western blot. After that the in vivo effect of rTCS combined with IL-2 was explored in mice bearing PC3 xenograft tumor. RESULTS: Trichosanthin was successfully expressed in BL21 and purified by 100 mM imidazole. It was shown to inhibit proliferation of PC3 cells in a dose-dependent manner with IC50 50.6 µg/ml. When combined with cytokine IL-2, a significant synergic effect was obtained. The inhibition rate on PC3 was around 50 % in combination group while only 35.5 % in single rTCS group at 50 µg/ml. Further, the expression of full length caspase-8 and Bcl-2 decreased significantly while cleaved caspase-8 and Bax were up-regulated, which suggest that caspase-8-mediated apoptosis pathway may be activated by rTCS in PC3 cells. Moreover, our data demonstrated that tumor volume and tumor weight were significantly reduced in rTCS-treated or rTCS/IL-2-treated nude mice bearing PC3 xenograft tumor compared with control. And significant difference was also found between rTCS and rTCS/IL-2 group. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates that rTCS is a potential agent with high in vitro and in vivo anti-tumor activity on PC3 cells. And rTCS combined with IL-2 is a promising strategy in treating patients with prostate cancer in future.