Crocetin as an Active Secondary Metabolite of Saffron Stigma and Anticancer Effects

2019 ◽  
Vol 15 (3) ◽  
pp. 192-196
Author(s):  
Ali Farahi ◽  
Homa Mollaei ◽  
Reyhane Hoshyar
Keyword(s):  
Adjuvant Therapy ◽  
Molecular Mechanisms ◽  
Synergistic Effects ◽  
Model Organisms ◽  
Epigenetic Changes ◽  
Anticancer Properties ◽  
Anticancer Effects ◽  
Therapeutic Procedures ◽  
Apoptotic Effects ◽  
Chemotherapy Agents

In order to try to increase the effectiveness of cancer therapeutic procedures, natural carotenoids attract lots of attention. Crocetin is one of the main carotenoids of saffron whose anticancer properties have been shown in recent decades. This study aimed to review previous invitro and invivo investigations on anticancer effects of this carotenoid and also proposed molecular mechanisms of its action. Literature reviewing between 1990 and 2017 was performed using pubmed and scopus databases. Anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic effects of crocetin have been observed in several cancers cell lines and also model organisms that might be due to the alternation in the expression of cancer-related genes and epigenetic changes. Moreover, several studies indicated synergistic effects of crocetin with common chemotherapy agents and mentioned it as a potential novel adjuvant therapy.

scholarly journals The Role of Curcumin in Cancer Treatment

Biomedicines ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 9 (9) ◽  
pp. 1086
Author(s):  
Vasiliki Zoi ◽  
Vasiliki Galani ◽  
Georgios D. Lianos ◽  
Spyridon Voulgaris ◽  
Athanasios P. Kyritsis ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Clinical Trials ◽  
Molecular Mechanisms ◽  
Curcuma Longa ◽  
Immune Modulators ◽  
Anticancer Properties ◽  
Stat3 Signaling ◽  
Anticancer Effects ◽  
Transcription 3 ◽  
Light Chain Enhancer

Curcumin is a polyphenol extracted from the rhizomes of the turmeric plant, Curcuma longa which has anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties. Chronic inflammation is associated with the development of cancer. Curcumin acts on the regulation of various immune modulators, including cytokines, cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and reactive oxygen species (ROS), which partly explains its anticancer effects. It also takes part in the downregulation of growth factors, protein kinases, oncogenic molecules and various signaling pathways, such as nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB), c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling. Clinical trials of curcumin have been completed or are ongoing for various types of cancer. This review presents the molecular mechanisms of curcumin in different types of cancer and the evidence from the most recent clinical trials.

scholarly journals PhyllanthusSuppresses Prostate Cancer Cell, PC-3, Proliferation and Induces Apoptosis through Multiple Signalling Pathways (MAPKs, PI3K/Akt, NFκB, and Hypoxia)

2013 ◽  
Vol 2013 ◽  
pp. 1-13 ◽  
Author(s):  
Yin-Quan Tang ◽  
InduBala Jaganath ◽  
Rishya Manikam ◽  
Shamala Devi Sekaran
Keyword(s):  
Molecular Mechanisms ◽  
Prostate Cancer Cell ◽  
Prostate Adenocarcinoma ◽  
Signalling Pathways ◽  
Differentially Expressed Proteins ◽  
Signalling Molecules ◽  
Anticancer Properties ◽  
Anticancer Effects ◽  
2D Gel

Phyllanthusis a traditional medicinal plant that has been found to have antihepatitis, antibacterial, and anticancer properties. The present studies were to investigate thein vitromolecular mechanisms of anticancer effects ofPhyllanthus(P. amarus, P. niruri, P. urinaria,andP. watsonii) plant extracts in human prostate adenocarcinoma. The cancer ten-pathway reporter array was performed and revealed that the expression of six pathway reporters were significantly decreased (Wnt, NFκB, Myc/Max, hypoxia, MAPK/ERK, and MAPK/JNK) in PC-3 cells after treatment withPhyllanthusextracts. Western blot was conducted and identified several signalling molecules that were affected in the signalling pathways including pan-Ras, c-Raf, RSK, Elk1, c-Jun, JNK1/2, p38 MAPK, c-myc, DSH,β-catenin, Akt, HIF-1α, GSK3β, NFκB p50 and p52, Bcl-2, Bax, and VEGF, in treated PC-3 cells. A proteomics-based approach, 2D gel electrophoresis, was performed, and mass spectrometry (MS/MS) results revealed that there were 72 differentially expressed proteins identified in treated PC-3 cells and were involved in tumour cell adhesion, apoptosis, glycogenesis and glycolysis, metastasis, angiogenesis, and protein synthesis and energy metabolism. Overall, these findings suggest thatPhyllanthuscan interfere with multiple signalling cascades involved in tumorigenesis and be used as a potential therapeutic candidate for treatment of cancer.

scholarly journals Bioactive Compounds: Natural Defense Against Cancer?

Biomolecules ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 9 (12) ◽  
pp. 758 ◽  
Author(s):  
Shonia Subramaniam ◽  
Kanga Rani Selvaduray ◽  
Ammu Kutty Radhakrishnan
Keyword(s):  
Side Effects ◽  
Bioactive Compounds ◽  
Molecular Mechanisms ◽  
Chemotherapeutic Agents ◽  
Anticancer Activities ◽  
Natural Plant ◽  
Anticancer Properties ◽  
Natural Defense ◽  
Anticancer Effects ◽  
Bioactive Agents

Cancer is a devastating disease that has claimed many lives. Natural bioactive agents from plants are gaining wide attention for their anticancer activities. Several studies have found that natural plant-based bioactive compounds can enhance the efficacy of chemotherapy, and in some cases ameliorate some of the side-effects of drugs used as chemotherapeutic agents. In this paper, we have reviewed the literature on the anticancer effects of four plant-based bioactive compounds namely, curcumin, myricetin, geraniin and tocotrienols (T3) to provide an overview on some of the key findings that are related to this effect. The molecular mechanisms through which the active compounds may exert their anticancer properties in cell and animal-based studies also discussed.

Vitamin D as potential therapeutic anticancer agent

2018 ◽  
pp. 1-3
Keyword(s):  
Vitamin D ◽  
Anticancer Activity ◽  
Anticancer Agent ◽  
Antitumor Agents ◽  
Metastatic Potential ◽  
Anticancer Properties ◽  
Chemotherapy Agents

The role of vitamin D is implicated in carcinogenesis through numerous biological processes like induction of apoptosis, modulation of immune system inhibition of inflammation and cell proliferation and promotion of cell differentiation. Its use as additional adjuvant drug with cancer treatment may be novel combination for improved outcome of different cancers. Numerous preclinical, epidemiological and clinical studies support the role of vitamin D as an anticancer agent. Anticancer properties of vitamin D have been studied widely (both in vivo and in vitro) among various cancers and found to have promising results. There are considerable data that indicate synergistic potential of calcitriol and antitumor agents. Possible mechanisms for modulatory anticancer activity of vitamin D include its antiproliferative, prodifferentiating, and anti-angiogenic and apoptic properties. Calcitriol reduces invasiveness and metastatic potential of many cancer cells by inhibiting angiogenesis and regulating expression of the key molecules involved in invasion and metastasis. Anticancer activity of vitamin D is synergistic or additive with the antineoplastic actions of several drugs including cytotoxic chemotherapy agents like paclitaxel, docetaxel, platinum base compounds and mitoxantrone. Benefits of addition of vitamin D should be weighed against the risk of its toxicity.

scholarly journals Aloe Vera-Mediated Te Nanostructures: Highly Potent Antibacterial Agents and Moderated Anticancer Effects

Nanomaterials ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (2) ◽  
pp. 514
Author(s):  
David Medina-Cruz ◽  
Ada Vernet-Crua ◽  
Ebrahim Mostafavi ◽  
María Ujué González ◽  
Lidia Martínez ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Biomedical Applications ◽  
Aqueous Media ◽  
Aloe Vera ◽  
Multidrug Resistant ◽  
Dermal Fibroblasts ◽  
Anticancer Properties ◽  
Green Approach ◽  
Anticancer Effects ◽  
Synthesis Of Nanomaterials ◽  
By Products

Cancer and antimicrobial resistance to antibiotics are two of the most worrying healthcare concerns that humanity is facing nowadays. Some of the most promising solutions for these healthcare problems may come from nanomedicine. While the traditional synthesis of nanomaterials is often accompanied by drawbacks such as high cost or the production of toxic by-products, green nanotechnology has been presented as a suitable solution to overcome such challenges. In this work, an approach for the synthesis of tellurium (Te) nanostructures in aqueous media has been developed using aloe vera (AV) extracts as a unique reducing and capping agent. Te-based nanoparticles (AV-TeNPs), with sizes between 20 and 60 nm, were characterized in terms of physicochemical properties and tested for potential biomedical applications. A significant decay in bacterial growth after 24 h was achieved for both Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli at a relative low concentration of 5 µg/mL, while there was no cytotoxicity towards human dermal fibroblasts after 3 days of treatment. AV-TeNPs also showed anticancer properties up to 72 h within a range of concentrations between 5 and 100 µg/mL. Consequently, here, we present a novel and green approach to produce Te-based nanostructures with potential biomedical applications, especially for antibacterial and anticancer applications.

scholarly journals Role of Physical Exercise and Nutraceuticals in Modulating Molecular Pathways of Osteoarthritis

2021 ◽  
Vol 22 (11) ◽  
pp. 5722
Author(s):  
Alessandro de Sire ◽  
Nicola Marotta ◽  
Cinzia Marinaro ◽  
Claudio Curci ◽  
Marco Invernizzi ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Signaling Pathways ◽  
Synergistic Effects ◽  
Molecular Pathways ◽  
Epigenetic Changes ◽  
Pathological Features ◽  
Oxidative Signaling ◽  
Cartilage Extracellular Matrix ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
Comprehensive Picture

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a painful and disabling disease that affects millions of patients. Its etiology is largely unknown, but it is most likely multifactorial. OA pathogenesis involves the catabolism of the cartilage extracellular matrix and is supported by inflammatory and oxidative signaling pathways and marked epigenetic changes. To delay OA progression, a wide range of exercise programs and naturally derived compounds have been suggested. This literature review aims to analyze the main signaling pathways and the evidence about the synergistic effects of these two interventions to counter OA. The converging nutrigenomic and physiogenomic intervention could slow down and reduce the complex pathological features of OA. This review provides a comprehensive picture of a possible signaling approach for targeting OA molecular pathways, initiation, and progression.

scholarly journals Pharmacological and Antioxidant Activities of Rhus coriaria L. (Sumac)

Antioxidants ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 10 (1) ◽  
pp. 73
Author(s):  
Halima Alsamri ◽  
Khawlah Athamneh ◽  
Gianfranco Pintus ◽  
Ali H. Eid ◽  
Rabah Iratni
Keyword(s):  
Cardiovascular Disease ◽  
Mediterranean Region ◽  
Molecular Mechanisms ◽  
Antioxidant Activities ◽  
Polyphenolic Compounds ◽  
Therapeutic Benefits ◽  
Anticancer Effects ◽  
Antioxidant Capacities ◽  
Rhus Coriaria ◽  
Flavoring Agent

Rhus coriaria L. (Anacardiaceae), commonly known as sumac, is a commonly used spice, condiment, and flavoring agent, especially in the Mediterranean region. Owing to its bountiful beneficial values, sumac has been used in traditional medicine for the management and treatment of many ailments including hemorrhoids, wound healing, diarrhea, ulcer, and eye inflammation. This plant is rich in various classes of phytochemicals including flavonoids, tannins, polyphenolic compounds, organic acids, and many others. By virtue of its bioactive, Rhus coriaria possesses powerful antioxidant capacities that have ameliorative and therapeutic benefits for many common diseases including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer. This review describes the phytochemical properties of R. coriaria and then focuses on the potent antioxidant capacities of sumac. We then dissect the cellular and molecular mechanisms of sumac’s action in modulating many pathophysiological instigators. We show how accumulating evidence supports the antibacterial, antinociceptive, antidiabetic, cardioprotective, neuroprotective, and anticancer effects of this plant, especially that toxicity studies show that sumac is very safe to consume by humans and has little toxicity. Taken together, the findings we summarize here support the utilization of this plant as an attractive target for drug discovery.

Insights into the seasonal adaptive mechanisms of Chinese alligators (Alligator sinensis) from transcriptomic analyses

2018 ◽  
Vol 66 (2) ◽  
pp. 93 ◽  
Author(s):  
Hongji Sun ◽  
Xianbo Zuo ◽  
Long Sun ◽  
Peng Yan ◽  
Fang Zhang ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Gene Expression ◽  
Skeletal Muscle ◽  
Molecular Mechanisms ◽  
Differentially Expressed ◽  
Model Organisms ◽  
Seasonal Adaptation ◽  
Cold Temperatures ◽  
Chinese Alligator ◽  
Adaptive Mechanisms ◽  
Alligator Sinensis

The Chinese alligator (Alligator sinensis) is an endemic and rare species in China, and is considered to be one of the most endangered vertebrates in the world. It is known to hibernate, an energy-saving strategy against cold temperatures and food deprivation. Changes in gene expression during hibernation remain largely unknown. To understand these complex seasonal adaptive mechanisms, we performed a comprehensive survey of differential gene expression in heart, skeletal muscle, and kidney of hibernating and active Chinese alligators using RNA-Sequencing. In total, we identified 4780 genes differentially expressed between the active and hibernating periods. GO and KEGG pathway analysis indicated the likely role of these differentially expressed genes (DEGs). The upregulated DEGs in the active Chinese alligator, CSRP3, MYG and PCKGC, may maintain heart and skeletal muscle contraction, transport and storage of oxygen, and enhance the body’s metabolism, respectively. The upregulated DEGs in the dormant Chinese alligator, ADIPO, CIRBP and TMM27, may improve insulin sensitivity and glucose/lipid metabolism, protect cells against harmful effects of cold temperature and hypoxia, regulate amino acid transport and uptake, and stimulate the proliferation of islet cells and the secretion of insulin. These results provide a foundation for understanding the molecular mechanisms of the seasonal adaptation required for hibernation in Chinese alligators, as well as effective information for other non-model organisms research.

scholarly journals Transgenic Epigenetics: Using Transgenic Organisms to Examine Epigenetic Phenomena

2012 ◽  
Vol 2012 ◽  
pp. 1-14 ◽  
Author(s):  
Lori A. McEachern
Keyword(s):  
Molecular Mechanisms ◽  
Model Organism ◽  
Evolutionary Conservation ◽  
Model Organisms ◽  
Valuable Insight ◽  
Epigenetic Control ◽  
Transgenic Organisms ◽  
Epigenetic Analysis ◽  
Insight Into ◽  
Epigenetic Processes

Non-model organisms are generally more difficult and/or time consuming to work with than model organisms. In addition, epigenetic analysis of model organisms is facilitated by well-established protocols, and commercially-available reagents and kits that may not be available for, or previously tested on, non-model organisms. Given the evolutionary conservation and widespread nature of many epigenetic mechanisms, a powerful method to analyze epigenetic phenomena from non-model organisms would be to use transgenic model organisms containing an epigenetic region of interest from the non-model. Interestingly, while transgenic Drosophila and mice have provided significant insight into the molecular mechanisms and evolutionary conservation of the epigenetic processes that target epigenetic control regions in other model organisms, this method has so far been under-exploited for non-model organism epigenetic analysis. This paper details several experiments that have examined the epigenetic processes of genomic imprinting and paramutation, by transferring an epigenetic control region from one model organism to another. These cross-species experiments demonstrate that valuable insight into both the molecular mechanisms and evolutionary conservation of epigenetic processes may be obtained via transgenic experiments, which can then be used to guide further investigations and experiments in the species of interest.

scholarly journals The p53/miR-34a/SIRT1 Positive Feedback Loop in Quercetin-Induced Apoptosis

2015 ◽  
Vol 35 (6) ◽  
pp. 2192-2202 ◽  
Author(s):  
Guohua Lou ◽  
Yanning Liu ◽  
Shanshan Wu ◽  
Jihua Xue ◽  
Fan Yang ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Cell Apoptosis ◽  
Feedback Loop ◽  
Molecular Mechanisms ◽  
Rt Pcr ◽  
Cycle Arrest ◽  
Anticancer Effects ◽  
Huh7 Cells ◽  
Mirnas Expression ◽  
Induced Apoptosis

Background: The anti-tumor effects of quercetin have been reported, but the underlying molecular mechanisms remain to be elucidated. The aim of present study was to explore the role of miRNA in the anticancer effects of quercetin. Methods: The differential miRNAs expression between the HepG2 and Huh7 cells treated by quercetin were detected by microarray. The xCELLigence, Flow cytometry, RT-PCR and Western blot were used to analyze the cell proliferation, cell apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, anti-tumor genes, and protein expression. Results: miR-34a was up-regulated in HepG2 cells treated by quercetin exhibiting wild-type p53. When inhibiting the miR-34a, the sensitivity of the cells to quercetin decreased and the expression of the SIRT1 was up-regulated, but the acetylation of p53 and the expression of some genes related to p53 down-regulated. Conclusion: miR-34a plays an important role in the anti-tumor effects of querctin in HCC, miR-34a may be a tiemolecule between the p53 and SIRT1 and is composed of a p53/miR-34a/SIRT1 signal feedback loop, which could enhance apoptosis signal and significantly promote cell apoptosis.

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