Acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic Acid Research Articles

Acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid inhibits cell proliferation and growth of oral squamous cell carcinoma via RAB7B-mediated autophagy

Natural products can overcome the limitations of conventional chemotherapy. Acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid (AKBA) as a natural product extracted from frankincense, exhibited chemotherapeutic activities in different cancers. However, whether AKBA exerts inhibiting effect of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) cells growth and the mechanism need to be explored. We attempted to investigate the therapeutic effects of AKBA against OSCC and explore the mechanism involved. Here we attempt to disclose the cell-killing effect of AKBA on OSCC cell lines and try to figure out the specifical pathway. The presence of increase autophagosome and the production of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species were confirmed after the application of AKBA on OSCC cells, and RAB7B inhibition enhanced autophagosome accumulation. Though the increase autophagosome was detected induced by AKBA, autophagic flux was inhibited as the failure fusion of autophagosome and lysosome. Cal27 xenografts were established to verify the role of anti-OSCC cells of AKBA in vivo. Based above findings, we speculate that natural product AKBA suppresses OSCC cells growth via RAB7B-mediated autophagy and may serve as a promising strategy for the therapy of OSCC.

Acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid modulates macrophage polarization and Schwann cell migration to accelerate spinal cord injury repair in rats.

Inhibiting secondary inflammatory damage caused by glial cells and creating a stable microenvironment is one of the main strategies to investigate drugs for the treatment of spinal cord injury. Acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid (AKBA) is the active component of the natural drug boswellia, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects and offers a possible therapeutic option for spinal cord injury. In this study, a spinal cord injury model was established by crushing spinal cord, respectively, to detect the M1 macrophage inflammatory markers: iNOS, TNF-α, IL-1β, and the M2 macrophage markers CD206, ARG-1, IL-10, and the detection of antioxidant enzymes and MDA. Invitro, macrophages were cultured to verify the main mechanism of the macrophage switch from Nrf2/HO-1 to M2 type by flow cytometry, immunofluorescence, and other techniques. Macrophage and Schwann cell co-culture validated the migration mechanism of Schwann cells promoted by AKBA. AKBA significantly enhanced the antioxidant enzyme activities of CAT, GSH-Px, T-AOC, and SOD, reduced MDA content, and reduced oxidative damage caused by spinal cord injury via the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway; AKBA mediates Nrf2/HO-1/IL-10, converts macrophages from M1 to M2 type, reduces inflammation, and promotes Schwann cell migration, thereby accelerating the repair of spinal cord injury in rats. Our work demonstrates that AKBA can attenuate oxidative stress as well as the secondary inflammatory injury caused by macrophages after SCI, promote Schwann cell migration to the injury site, and thus accelerate the repair of the injured spinal cord.

Pectin/sodium alginate films tailored with Acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid for active packaging

The present study aimed to develop food packaging films by using a combination of pectin (PE) and sodium alginate (SA) enriched with Acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid (AKBA) as a functional or active ingredient. The fabricated films underwent comprehensive evaluation of their morphological, chemical, mechanical, barrier, optical, thermal, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. SEM and FTIR analysis showed that AKBA had good compatibility with film-forming components. The AKBA-loaded film samples exhibited a decrease in their barrier properties and tensile strength, but enhancements in both elongation at break and thickness values was observed. With the addition of AKBA, a significant increase (p < 0.05) in the ultraviolet barrier properties of the films and total colour variation (ΔE) was observed. TGA analysis of the films unveiled an improvement in thermal resistance with the incorporation of AKBA. Moreover, the films loaded with AKBA exhibited potent antioxidant activity in the ABTS and DPPH assay methods. Disk diffusion analysis showed the antimicrobial activity of AKBA-loaded films against P. aeruginosa, highlighting the potential of AKBA as a natural antimicrobial agent for the safety of food products. The results demonstrate the practical application of PE and SA active films loaded with AKBA, particularly within the food packaging industry.

Influence of acetyl-11-keto-beta boswellic acid on hepatic membrane dynamics and lipidiome during conditions of benzo(a)pyrene induced toxicity

Background and AimPollution and lifestyle changes expose mankind to a number of toxicants such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons that may cause life-threatening diseases. The present study was undertaken to explicate the protective role of Acetyl-11-Keto-Beta Boswellic Acid (AKBA), if any, in containing benzo(a)pyrene (BaP) induced alterations on hepatic membrane dynamics and lipidiome in female rats. Experimental procedureThe animals were divided into five groups viz. Normal control, Vehicle treated, BaP treated, AKBA treated and BaP + AKBA treated. To induce hepatotoxicity, BaP was administered orally at a dose level of 50 mg/kg b.wt. dissolved in olive oil twice a week for 4 weeks. AKBA was supplemented to animals four weeks prior to BaP treatment and continued for 8 weeks at a dose level of 50 mg/kg b.wt. thrice a week. Certain key indices that included oxidative stress biomarkers, lipid profile of membranes, membrane fluidity parameters and activities of ATPases were studied. Results and ConclusionThe results showed that benzo(a)pyrene treatment resulted in a significant increase in the levels of lipid peroxidation (LPO) and ROS but caused a significant decrease in the levels of total lipids, phospholipids, cholesterol, glycolipids and activities of ATPases. Hepatic membrane fluidity as assessed by 1,6-Diphenyl-1,3,5-hexatriene (DPH) and Pyrene fluorescence probes was significantly increased in rats intoxicated with BaP. Interestingly, AKBA supplementation to BaP treated rats appreciably contained altered membrane dynamics and lipidiome as well as modulated hepatotoxicity by skirmishing activities of oxidative stress markers and also improved hepatic histoarchitecture. Our study thus concludes that AKBA can be used as a prophylactic intervention in providing protection to hepatocytes as it maintains membrane integrity in conditions of BaP induced toxicity.

Acetyl-11-keto-beta boswellic acid(AKBA) modulates CSTC-pathway by activating SIRT-1/Nrf2-HO-1 signalling in experimental rat model of obsessive-compulsive disorder: Evidenced by CSF, blood plasma and histopathological alterations

Obsessive-Compulsive disorder (OCD) is a long-term and persistent mental illness characterised by obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviours. Numerous factors can contribute to the development or progression of OCD. These factors may result from the dysregulation of multiple intrinsic cellular pathways, including SIRT-1, Nrf2, and HO-1. Inhibitors of selective serotonin reuptake (SSRIs) are effective first-line treatments for OCD. In our ongoing research, we have investigated the role of SIRT-1, Nrf2, and HO-1, as well as the neuroprotective potential of Acetyl-11-keto-beta boswellic acid (AKBA) against behavioural and neurochemical changes in rodents treated with 8-OH-DPAT. In addition, the effects of AKBA were compared to those of fluvoxamine (FLX), a standard OCD medication. Injections of 8-OH-DPAT into the intra-dorso raphe nuclei (IDRN) of rats for seven days induced repetitive and compulsive behaviour accompanied by elevated oxidative stress, inflammatory processes, apoptosis, and neurotransmitter imbalances in CSF, blood plasma, and brain samples. Chronic administration of AKBA at 50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg p.o. restored histopathological alterations in the cortico-striatal-thalamo-cortical (CSTC) pathway, including the cerebral cortex, striatum, and hippocampal regions. Our investigation revealed that when AKBA and fluvoxamine were administered together, the alterations were restored to a greater degree than when administered separately. These findings demonstrate that the neuroprotective effect of AKBA can serve as an effective basis for developing a novel OCD treatment.

Acetyl-11-Keto-Beta-Boswellic Acid Has Therapeutic Benefits for NAFLD Rat Models That Were Given a High Fructose Diet by Ameliorating Hepatic Inflammation and Lipid Metabolism.

Acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid (AKBA), a potent anti-inflammatory compound purified from Boswellia species, was investigated in a preclinical study for its potential in preventing and treating non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), the most common chronic inflammatory liver disorder. The study involved thirty-six male Wistar rats, equally divided into prevention and treatment groups. In the prevention group, rats were given a high fructose diet (HFrD) and treated with AKBA for 6weeks, while in the treatment group, rats were fed HFrD for 6weeks and then given a normal diet with AKBA for 2weeks. At the end of the study, various parameters were analyzed including liver tissues and serum levels of insulin, leptin, adiponectin, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β), interferon gamma (INF-ϒ), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α). Additionally, the expression levels of genes related to the inflammasome complex and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-ϒ), as well as the levels of phosphorylated and non-phosphorylated AMP-activated protein kinase alpha-1 (AMPK-α1) protein, were measured. The results showed that AKBA improved NAFLD-related serum parameters and inflammatory markers and suppressed PPAR-ϒ and inflammasome complex-related genes involved in hepatic steatosis in both groups. Additionally, AKBA prevented the reduction of the active and inactive forms of AMPK-α1 in the prevention group, which is a cellular energy regulator that helps suppress NAFLD progression. In conclusion, AKBA has a beneficial effect on preventing and avoiding the progression of NAFLD by preserving lipid metabolism, improving hepatic steatosis, and suppressing liver inflammation.

Comparison of in vivo plasma pharmacokinetics and urine excretion of main components in Xihuang Formula in rats with precancerous lesions of breast cancer

The UPLC-MS/MS was established for the determination of acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid(AKBA) and β-boswellic acid(β-BA), the main active components of Olibanum and Myrrha extracts in Xihuang Formula, in rat plasma and urine. The effects of compatibility on the pharmacokinetic behaviors of AKBA and β-BA in rats were investigated, and the differences in pharmacokinetic behaviors between healthy rats and rats with precancerous lesions of breast cancer were compared. The results showed that compared with RM-NH and RM-SH groups, the AUC_(0-t) and AUC_(0-∞) of β-BA increased(P&lt;0.05 or P&lt;0.01), T_(max) decreased(P&lt;0.05 or P&lt;0.01), and C_(max) increased(P&lt;0.01) after compatibility. The trends of AKBA and β-BA were the same. Compared with RM-SH group, the T_(max) decreased(P&lt;0.05), C_(max) increased(P&lt;0.01), and the absorption rate increased in the normal group of Xihuang Formula. The results of urinary excretion showed that there was a decreasing trend in the urinary excretion rate and total urinary excretion of β-BA and AKBA after compatibility, but there was no statistical difference. Compared with normal group of Xihuang Formula, the AUC_(0-t) and AUC_(0-∞) of β-BA increased(P&lt;0.05), T_(max) increased(P&lt;0.05), and the clearance rate decreased in the breast precancerous lesion group. AUC_(0-t) and AUC_(0-∞) of AKBA showed an increasing trend, the in vivo retention time was prolonged, and the clearance rate was reduced, but there was no significant difference compared with the normal group. The cumulative urinary excretion and urinary excretion rate of β-BA and AKBA decreased under pathological conditions, indicating that pathological conditions could affect the in vivo process of β-BA and AKBA, and reduce their excretion in the form of prototype drugs, showing different pharmacokine-tic characteristics from normal physiological conditions. In this study, UPLC-MS/MS analysis method was established, which was sui-table for in vivo pharmacokinetic analysis of β-BA and AKBA. This study laid a foundation for the development of new dosage forms of Xihuang Formula.

Nrf2/HO-1 Signaling Stimulation through Acetyl-11-Keto-Beta-Boswellic Acid (AKBA) Provides Neuroprotection in Ethidium Bromide-Induced Experimental Model of Multiple Sclerosis.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a severe immune-mediated neurological disease characterized by neuroinflammation, demyelination, and axonal degeneration in the central nervous system (CNS). This is frequently linked to motor abnormalities and cognitive impairments. The pathophysiological hallmarks of MS include inflammatory demyelination, axonal injury, white matter degeneration, and the development of CNS lesions that result in severe neuronal degeneration. Several studies suggested downregulation of nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor-2 (Nrf2)/Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) signaling is a causative factor for MS pathogenesis. Acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid (AKBA) is an active pentacyclictriterpenoid obtained from Boswellia serrata, possessing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The present study explores the protective potential of AKBA on behavioral, molecular, neurochemical, and gross pathological abnormalitiesandhistopathological alterations by H&E and LFB staining techniques in an experimental model of multiple sclerosis, emphasizing the increase inNrf2/HO-1 levels in the brain. Moreover, we also examine the effect of AKBA on the intensity of myelin basic protein (MBP) in CSF and rat brain homogenate. Specific apoptotic markers (Bcl-2, Bax, andcaspase-3) were also estimated in rat brain homogenate. Neuro behavioralabnormalities in rats were examined using an actophotometer, rotarod test, beam crossing task (BCT),and Morris water maze (MWM). AKBA 50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg were given orally from day 8 to 35 to alleviate MS symptoms in the EB-injected rats. Furthermore, cellular, molecular, neurotransmitter, neuroinflammatory cytokine, and oxidative stress markers in rat whole brain homogenate, blood plasma, and cerebral spinal fluid were investigated. This study shows that AKBA upregulates the level of antioxidant proteins such as Nrf2 and HO-1 in the rat brain. AKBA restores altered neurochemical levels, potentially preventing gross pathological abnormalities during MS progression.

Acetyl-11-Keto-Beta Boswellic Acid (AKBA) Protects Lens Epithelial Cells Against H2O2-Induced Oxidative Injury and Attenuates Cataract Progression by Activating Keap1/Nrf2/HO-1 Signaling.

Age-related cataract (ARC) is one of the leading blinding eye diseases worldwide. Chronic oxidative stress and the apoptosis of human lens epithelial cells (HLECs) have been suggested to be the mechanism underlying cataract formation. Acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid (AKBA) is a pentacyclic triterpene with antioxidative and antiapoptotic effects. In this study, we investigated the potential effects of AKBA on oxidative-induced HLECs injury and cataract formation. H2O2 was used to simulate HLECs oxidative injury in vitro, and Na2SeO3 was applied to establish an in vivo cataract model. In our current study, a cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay was performed to evaluate the effects of H2O2 and AKBA on cell viability in vitro. Intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were measured with the ROS assay to verify the antioxidant capacity of AKBA. Apoptotic cells were detected and measured by TUNEL staining and flow cytometry, and quantitative real-time (qRT)-PCR and Western blotting were applied to examine the transcription and expression of apoptosis-related proteins. Furthermore, immunofluorescence staining was performed to locate factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), and the protein levels of Nrf2, kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) were determined by Western blotting. Finally, we observed the degree of lens opacity and performed hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) staining to assess the protective effect of AKBA on cataract formation in vivo. AKBA increased HLECs viability under H2O2 stimulation, decreased intracellular ROS levels and alleviated the cell apoptosis rate in vitro. AKBA significantly decreased the expression of caspase-3 and Bax and increased the content of Bcl-2. The results of immunofluorescence and immunohistochemical staining proved that the expression and nuclear translocation of Nrf2 were activated with AKBA treatment in vivo and in vitro. Moreover, computational docking results showed that AKBA could bind specifically to the predicted Keap1/Nrf2 binding sites. After AKBA activation, Nrf2 dissociates from the Nrf2/Keap1 complex, translocates into the nucleus, and subsequently promotes HO-1 expression. In addition, AKBA attenuated lens opacity in selenite-induced cataracts. Overall, these findings indicated that AKBA alleviated oxidative injury and cataract formation by activating the Keap1/Nrf2/HO-1 cascade. Therefore, our current study highlights that AKBA may serve as a promising treatment for ARC progression.

Acetyl-11-Keto-β-Boswellic Acid (AKBA) Prevents Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Inflammation and Cytotoxicity on H9C2 Cells.

Acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid (AKBA), the major component of Boswellia serrata, exhibits anti-inflammatory activities. This in vitro study investigated the protective effects of AKBA against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced cardiac dysfunction. In this study, the H9C2 cardiomyocytes were pretreated with AKBA (2.5, 5, and 10 μM for 24 h), and then cotreated with LPS for another 24 h. The MTT assay, ELISA test kits, and quantitative real-time PCR analysis assessed the cell viability, levels of proinflammatory factors (IL-β, IL-6, TNF- α, and PGE2), and the gene expression of IL-β, IL-6, TNF- α, iNOS, and COX-2, respectively. The nitric oxide (NO) and thiol levels were also measured using a biochemical assay. The results indicated that LPS exposure markedly reduced cell viability and total thiol content, but increased the inflammatory cytokines, NO metabolites, and gene expression of proinflammatory mediators in H9C2 cells. AKBA pretreatment significantly altered the mentioned factors induced by LPS. Our results demonstrated that AKBA might be a promising therapeutic agent for treating sepsis-related cardiac dysfunction in the future.

The Biological Activity of 3-O-Acetyl-11-keto-β-Boswellic Acid in Nervous System Diseases.

Frankincense is a hard gelatinous resin exuded by Boswellia serrata. It contains a complex array of components, of which acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid (AKBA), a pentacyclic triterpenoid of the resin class, is the main active component. AKBA has a variety of physiological actions, including anti-infection, anti-tumor, and antioxidant effects. The use of AKBA for the treatment of mental diseases has been documented as early as ancient Greece. Recent studies have found that AKBA has anti-aging and other neurological effects, suggesting its potential for the treatment of neurological diseases. This review focuses on nervous system-related diseases, summarizes the functions and mechanisms of AKBA in promoting nerve repair and regeneration after injury, protecting against ischemic brain injury and aging, inhibiting neuroinflammation, ameliorating memory deficits, and alleviating neurotoxicity, as well as having anti-glioma effects and relieving brain edema. The mechanisms by which AKBA functions in different diseases and the relationships between dosage and biological effects are discussed in depth with the aim of increasing understanding of AKBA and guiding its use for the treatment of nervous system diseases.

Acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid promotes sciatic nerve repair after injury: molecular mechanism.

Previous studies showed that acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid (AKBA), the active ingredient in the natural Chinese medicine Boswellia, can stimulate sciatic nerve injury repair via promoting Schwann cell proliferation. However, the underlying molecular mechanism remains poorly understood. In this study, we performed genomic sequencing in a rat model of sciatic nerve crush injury after gastric AKBA administration for 30 days. We found that the phagosome pathway was related to AKBA treatment, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor expression in the neurotrophic factor signaling pathway was also highly up-regulated. We further investigated gene and protein expression changes in the phagosome pathway and neurotrophic factor signaling pathway. Myeloperoxidase expression in the phagosome pathway was markedly decreased, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor, nerve growth factor, and nerve growth factor receptor expression levels in the neurotrophic factor signaling pathway were greatly increased. Additionally, expression levels of the inflammatory factors CD68, interleukin-1β, pro-interleukin-1β, and tumor necrosis factor-α were also decreased. Myelin basic protein- and β3-tubulin-positive expression as well as the axon diameter-to-total nerve diameter ratio in the injured sciatic nerve were also increased. These findings suggest that, at the molecular level, AKBA can increase neurotrophic factor expression through inhibiting myeloperoxidase expression and reducing inflammatory reactions, which could promote myelin sheath and axon regeneration in the injured sciatic nerve.

Nrf2/HO-1 Signaling Activator Acetyl-11-keto-beta Boswellic Acid (AKBA)-Mediated Neuroprotection in Methyl Mercury-Induced Experimental Model of ALS.

Methylmercury (MeHg) is a potent neurotoxin that causes neurotoxicity and neuronal cell death. MeHg exposure also leads to oligodendrocyte destruction, glial cell overactivation, and demyelination of motor neurons in the motor cortex and spinal cord. As a result, MeHg plays an important role in the progression of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)-like neurocomplications. ALS is a fatal neurodegenerative disorder in which neuroinflammation is the leading cause of further CNS demyelination. Nuclear factorerythroid-2-related factor-2 (Nrf2)/Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) signaling pathway was thought to be a potential target for neuroprotection in ALS. Acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid (AKBA) is a multi-component pentacyclic triterpenoid mixture derived from Boswellia serrata with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The research aimed to investigate whether AKBA, as a Nrf2 / HO-1 activator, can provide protection against ALS. Thus, we explored the role of AKBA on the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway in a MeHg-induced experimental ALS model. In this study, ALS was induced in Wistar rats by oral gavage of MeHg 5mg/kg for 21days. An open field test, force swim test, and grip strength were performed to observe experimental rats' motor coordination behaviors. In contrast, a morris water maze was performed for learning and memory. Administration of AKBA 50mg/kg and AKBA 100mg/kg continued from day 22 to 42. Neurochemical parameters were evaluated in the rat's brain homogenate. In the meantime, post-treatment with AKBA significantly improved behavioral, neurochemical, and gross pathological characteristics in the brain of rats by increasing the amount of Nrf2/HO-1 in brain tissue. Collectively, our findings indicated that AKBA could potentially avoid demyelination and encourage remyelination.

A Study on the Effects of Acetyl-11-Keto-β-Boswellic Acid Against Dextran Sodium Sulfate Induced Acute and Chronic Colitis in Swiss Albino Mice

Introduction: Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a term used to denote concurrently the two chronic inflammatory conditions of Gastrointestinal (GI) tract viz: Chron’s Disease (CD) and Ulcerative Colitis (UC). This study has aimed to focus on Acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid (AKBA) which is an active phytochemical derivate from the gum resin of the Boswellia serrata in order to investigate its anti-inflammatory potential against dextran sodium sulfate-induced colitis in Swiss albino mice. Materials and Methods: The 3% of Dextran Sodium Sulfate (DSS) polymer in drinking water was fed to different mice groups with distinct timeline for both acute (7days) and chronic colitis induction (3 cycles of 5 days feeding with 15 days gap method). The anti-inflammatory activity of AKBA (50 mg/kg) was evaluated by performing various anti-oxidant assays on tissue homogenate samples (colon, liver, and kidney) and further histological studies. Result: The oral administration of AKBA (50 mg/kg) had managing effects in IBD mice. Results showed that AKBA lowered the inflammation and soreness compared to the DSS administered mice groups. The histopathology of the intestinal wall was performed and clear morphological changes were observed under light microscopy of both acute and chronic colitis groups of mice. Furthermore, various anti-oxidant assays were performed on tissue sections of chronic colitis mice. Results from histological studies indicated that the chemo-preventive effect of AKBA was attributed to a collection of activities including anti-proliferation, apoptosis induction, and anti-inflammation. Conclusions: In accordance with the findings, the AKBA active derivative showed anti-inflammatory activity against the DSS induced acute and chronic colitis in mice. However, further clinical studies need to be done to bring AKBA as a potential anti-inflammatory drug candidate for treating IBD.

Bioavailability enhancement of a BCS IV compound via an amorphous combination product containing ritonavir.

To evaluate the effect of ritonavir (RTV) co-administration on the bioavailability of an amorphous dispersion of acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid (AKBA) and to develop a pharmaceutically acceptable AKBA-RTV combination tablet. A pharmacokinetic (PK) study in rats was conducted to evaluate the influence of RTV co-administration on the oral bioavailability of an AKBA amorphous dispersion. KinetiSol was utilized to enable production of an improved RTV formulation that facilitated the development of an AKBA-RTV combination tablet. Following in-vitro characterization, the PK performance of the tablets was evaluated in male beagles. Co-administration of RTV increased oral absorption of AKBA by about fourfold over the AKBA dispersion alone and approximately 24-fold over the pure compound. The improved RTV amorphous dispersion exhibited similar purity and neutral-phase dissolution to Norvir. The AKBA-RTV combination tablets yielded a substantial increase in AKBA's bioavailability in dogs. Oral absorption of AKBA is substantially limited by intestinal CYP3A activity and poor aqueous solubility. Consequently, AKBA's oral bioavailability is maximized by administration from a supersaturating formulation in conjunction with a CYP3A inhibitor. The AKBA-RTV combination tablet presented herein represents a breakthrough in the oral delivery of the compound facilitating future use as a drug therapy for broad spectrum cancer treatment.

The comparative study of acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid (AKBA) and aspirin in the prevention of intestinal adenomatous polyposis in APCMin/+ mice

Acetyl-11-keto-beta-BA (AKBA), a component of the gum resin of Boswellia serrata, has been recognized as a promising agent for the prevention of intestinal tumorigenesis. Aspirin, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), has also been considered to have the activity against intestinal tumorigenesis. However, the prevention of colonic cancer is insufficient and no definitive recommendation has been made for clinic use. Herein, we compared the efficacy of AKBA with that of aspirin in an adenomatous polyposis coli intestinal neoplasia consecutive weeks. Mice were sacrificed by anesthetizing. The whole intestine was removed from each mouse. The number, size and histopathology of intestinal adenomatous polyps were examined under microscopy. The adenomatous polyps were removed for further analysis by the assays of western blotting and immunohistochemical staining. AKBA significantly prevented the formation of intestinal adenomatous polyps without toxicity to mice. Statistical analysis indicated that AKBA's activity both in the prevention of small intestinal and colonic polyps was more potently than aspirin. Histopathologic examination revealed that AKBA's effect, that is the reduction of polyp size and degree of dysplasia, was more prominent in larger sized polyps, especially those originating in colon. These effects of AKBA were associated with its role in the induction of apoptosis in carcinomas. The assays of western blotting and immunohistochemistry staining indicated that the efficacy of AKBA might arise from its activity in the modulation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway and NF-κB/COX-2 pathway in adenomatous polyps. Conclusion, AKBA by oral application prevented intestinal tumorigenesis more potential than aspirin.

RETRACTED: Acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid (AKBA) prevents human colonic adenocarcinoma growth through modulation of multiple signaling pathways

Acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid (AKBA) is a derivative of boswellic acid. We have previously reported that AKBA can reduce the number and size of colonic adenomatous polyps in the APC(Min/+) mouse model. In this study, we evaluated the effect of AKBA on human colonic adenocarcinoma growth. Its efficacy and toxicity were compared with those of the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug aspirin. The inhibition of cancer cell growth was estimated by colorimetric and clonogenic assay. Cell cycle distribution was analyzed by the flow cytometry assay. Annexin V-FITC/PI staining and JC-1 fluorescence probe assays were performed to determine the apoptotic cells. Further experiment was carried out in mice with HT-29 xenografts. AKBA was orally administered for 24days. The HT-29 xenografts were removed for TUNEL staining and western blotting analysis. Blood was obtained for clinical chemical analysis, and samples of organs were sectioned for microscopic assessment. AKBA significantly inhibited human colon adenocarcinoma growth, showing arrest of the cell cycle in G1-phase and induction of apoptosis. AKBA administration in mice effectively delayed the growth of HT-29 xenografts without signs of toxicity. The activity of AKBA was more potent than that of aspirin. Western blotting suggested that this activity may arise from its multiple effects on the activation of apoptotic proteins, suppression of inflammatory cytokines and modulation of EGFR and ATM/P53 signaling pathways in the HT-29 xenografts. AKBA prevents the growth of colonic adenocarcinoma through modulation of multiple signaling pathways. AKBA could be a promising agent in the prevention of colonic adenocarcinomas.

Chemoprevention of intestinal adenomatous polyposis by acetyl‐11‐keto‐beta‐boswellic acid in APCMin/+ mice

Acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid (AKBA) is a derivative of boswellic acid, which is an active component of the gum resin of Boswellia serrata. AKBA has been used as an adjuvant medication for treatment of inflammatory diseases. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the efficacy of AKBA as a chemopreventive agent against intestinal adenomatous polyposis in the adenomatous polyposis coli multiple intestinal neoplasia (APC(Min/+) ) mouse model. APC(Min/+) mice were administered AKBA by p.o. gavage for 8 consecutive weeks. The mice were sacrificed and the number, size and histopathology of intestinal polyps were examined by light microscopy. AKBA decreased polyp numbers by 48.9% in the small intestine and 60.4% in the colon. An even greater AKBA effect was observed in preventing the malignant progression of these polyps. The number of large (>3 cm) colonic polyposis was reduced by 77.8%. Histopathologic analysis demonstrated a significant reduction in the number of dysplastic cells and in the degree of dysplasia in each polyp after AKBA treatment. There was no evidence of high grade dysplasia or intramucosal carcinoma in any of the polyps examined within the treated group. More interestingly, interdigitated normal appearing intestinal villi were observed in the polyps of the treated group. During the course of the study, AKBA was well tolerated by the mice with no obvious signs of toxicity. Results from immunohistochemical staining, Western blotting and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay indicated that the chemopreventive effect of AKBA was attributed to a collection of activities including antiproliferation, apoptosis induction, antiangiogenesis and anti-inflammation. AKBA was found to exert its chemopreventive action through the inhibition of the Wnt/β-catenin and NF-κB/cyclooxygenase-2 signaling pathways. Our findings suggest that AKBA could be a promising regimen in chemoprevention against intestinal tumorigenesis.

Boswellic acid inhibits growth and metastasis of human colorectal cancer in orthotopic mouse model by downregulating inflammatory, proliferative, invasive and angiogenic biomarkers

Numerous cancer therapeutics were originally identified from natural products used in traditional medicine. One such agent is acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid (AKBA), derived from the gum resin of the Boswellia serrata known as Salai guggal or Indian frankincense. Traditionally, it has been used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat proinflammatory conditions. In this report, we hypothesized that AKBA can affect the growth and metastasis of colorectal cancer (CRC) in orthotopically implanted tumors in nude mice. We found that the oral administration of AKBA (50-200 mg/kg) dose-dependently inhibited the growth of CRC tumors in mice, resulting in decrease in tumor volumes than those seen in vehicle-treated mice without significant decreases in body weight. In addition, we observed that AKBA was highly effective in suppressing ascites and distant metastasis to the liver, lungs and spleen in orthotopically implanted tumors in nude mice. When examined for the mechanism, we found that markers of tumor proliferation index Ki-67 and the microvessel density cluster of differentiation (CD31) were significantly downregulated by AKBA treatment. We also found that AKBA significantly suppressed nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) activation in the tumor tissue and expression of proinflammatory (cyclooxygenase-2), tumor survival (bcl-2, bcl-xL, inhibitor of apoptosis (IAP-1) and survivin), proliferative (cyclin D1), invasive (intercellular adhesion molecule 1 and matrix metalloproteinase-9) and angiogenic C-X-C (CXC) receptor 4 and vascular endothelial growth factor) biomarkers. When examined for serum and tissue levels of AKBA, a dose-dependent increase in the levels of the drug was detected, indicating its bioavailability. Thus, our findings suggest that this boswellic acid analog can inhibit the growth and metastasis of human CRC in vivo through downregulation of cancer-associated biomarkers.

Acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid and arsenic trioxide regulate the productions and activities of matrix metalloproteinases in human skin fibroblasts and human leukemia cell line THP-1

In order to reveal the treatment mechanism of Chinese medicine with the effect of activating blood and resolving putridity, we selected acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid (AKBA) and arsenic trioxide (ATO), the main monomeric components of frankincense and arsenolite which are two most commonly used Chinese medicine with effect of activating blood and resolving putridity. We combined AKBA and ATO as a compound, and explored its regulatory role in productions and activities of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-1, MMP-2 and MMP-9 in human skin fibroblasts (HSFbs) and human acute monocytic leukemia cell line THP-1 in inflammatory state. In order to simulate the inflammatory micro-environment of chronic wounds, we established 3 cell models: HSFb model activated by tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), THP-1 cell model activated by phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA) and HSFb-THP-1 cell coculture system. AKBA and ATO were cocultured with these cell models. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), gelatin zymography assay and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) were used to test the secretions, activities and mRNA expressions of MMP-1, MMP-2 and MMP-9. In the study of the regulatory mechanism of AKBA and ATO on MMPs, AKBA and ATO were cocultured with the cell models. ELISA was used to test the secretions of TNF-α and interleukin-1beta (IL-β) and Western blot was used to test the phosphorylation levels of extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1 and 2 (ERK1/2) and p38 mitogen-activated proteinkinase (p38MAPK). Compound of AKBA and ATO inhibited MMP-1, MMP-2 and MMP-9 mRNA expressions, secretions and activities respectively in HSFbs and THP-1 cells in inflammatory state (P<0.05, P<0.01). Also compound of AKBA and ATO inhibited secretions of TNF-α and IL-1β in THP-1 cells and cell coculture system (P<0.01). It also decreased the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and p38 MAPK in HSFbs and THP-1 cells (P<0.05, P<0.01). The combined use of AKBA and ATO which in line with the rule of activating blood and resolving putridity inhibits fibroblasts and inflammatory cells in producing MMPs in inflammatory state through inhibiting the release of inflammatory factors and MAPK cascade pathway.