Disruption Of Mitochondrial Membrane Potential Research Articles

Apigeninidin chloride disrupts Toxoplasma gondii Mitochondrial membrane potential and induce reactive oxygen species and metabolites production

IntroductionApigeninidin chloride (APi) is a form of 3-deoxyanthrocyanidins (3-DAs) abundantly produced by the red Sorghum bicolor plant. It has been previously reported to be effective against Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) tachyzoites grown in vitro with less cytotoxic effect. However, its possible mechanism(s) of action has not been elucidated. Biochemically, we discovered that APi induced high reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitochondria superoxide (MitoSOX) productions in tachyzoites, leading to mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) disruption in vitro.MethodsTo confirm our biochemical results at the molecular level, we performed a liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) analysis on APi-treated parasites to assess any metabolite and lipid alterations often associated with high ROS/MitoSOX production in cells. ResultsNoteworthy is that we detected several important oxidative stress-induced metabolites such as hexanal, aldehydes, methyl undeo10-enoate, butadiynyl phenyl ketone, 16-hydroxyhexadecanoic acid (16-OH, 16:0), 2-hydroxytricosanoic acid (C23:0; O), 3-oxodecanosanoic acid (C22:1; O), 2-hydroxypropylsterate, and furan fatty acids F6 (19FU-FA). DiscussionThese metabolites are associated with lipid, protein, and nucleic acid disruptions. Using atovaquone (Atov) as a control, we observed that it disrupted intracellular tachyzoites’ mitochondrial membrane potential, increased ROS and MitoSOX production, and altered metabolite and lipid production similar to what was observed with our experimental compound APi. Overall, our results indicated that APi targets T. gondii tachyzoite growth through inducing oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and eventually parasite death.

Multifunctional hyaluronic acid ligand-assisted construction of CD44- and mitochondria-targeted self-assembled upconversion nanoparticles for enhanced photodynamic therapy.

Upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) have been used as a potential nanocarrier for photosensitizers (PSs), which have demonstrated a great deal of promise in achieving an effective photodynamic therapy (PDT) for deep-seated tumors. However, overcoming biological barriers to achieve mitochondria-targeted PDT remains a major challenge. Herein, CD44- and mitochondria-targeted photodynamic nanosystems were fabricated through the self-assembly of hyaluronic acid-conjugated-methoxy poly(ethylene glycol)-diethylenetriamine-grafted-(chlorin e6-dihydrolipoic acid-(3-carboxypropyl)triphenylphosphine bromide) polymeric ligands (HA-c-mPEG-Deta-g-(Ce6-DHLA-TPP)) and NaErF4:Tm@NaYF4 core-shell UCNPs (termed CMPNs). The CMPNs presented ideal physiological stability, a good drug loading capacity and an improved capacity for the generation of singlet oxygen (1O2) based on the FRET mechanism. Significantly, confocal images revealed that CMPNs not only facilitated cellular uptake through CD44-receptor-targeted endocytosis, subsequently enabling rapid evasion from endo-lysosomal sequestration, but also specifically targeted mitochondria, ultimately inducing a profound disruption of mitochondrial membrane potential, which triggered apoptosis upon laser irradiation, thereby significantly enhancing the therapeutic effect. Furthermore, in vitro antitumor experiments further confirmed the substantial enhancement in cancer cell killing efficiency achieved by treating with CMPNs upon near-infrared (NIR) laser irradiation. This innovative approach holds promise for the development of NIR-laser-activated photodynamic nanoagents specifically designed for mitochondria-targeted PDT, thus addressing the limitations of the current PDT treatments.

Development of β‐Carboline‐Coumarin Based Hybrids as Potential Cytotoxic and Topoisomerase IIα Inhibitors

AbstractCancer remains a global health concern, prompting extensive efforts to develop novel inhibitors targeting the enzyme topoisomerase IIα as potential anti‐cancer agents. Herein, we strategically combined the pharmacophores from natural (β‐carboline) and (coumarin) sources, diversifying them at two distinct points. The in vitro evaluation of cytotoxic properties were estimated on human cancer cell lines, reveals that among the tested compounds, 13 r (isopropyl‐substituted β‐carboline) exhibited remarkable potency with IC50 value of 4.37 μM in the HCT116 cell line. Its selectivity for cancer cells was validated against normal keratinocyte cells, establishing a favourable selectivity index. Further, SAR studies indicate that no substitution (13 r) at C‐6 and C‐7 of β‐carboline, enhance anticancer activity. Assays confirmed its ability to intercalate with DNA, inhibit topoisomerase IIα, induce apoptosis, and disrupt mitochondrial membrane potential in HCT116 cells. Flow cytometric assays gauged the induction of apoptosis using Annexin‐V/PI dual staining and the disruption of mitochondrial membrane potential through JC staining. Results demonstrated that compound 13 r induced apoptosis and dose‐dependent depolarization of the mitochondrial membrane in HCT116 cells. Molecular docking studies further validated that compound 13 r binds within the active site of DNA when complexed with topo IIα, and this binding was stabilized through interactions with DNA base pairs and amino acid residues.

Artemisinin conferred cytoprotection to human retinal pigment epithelial cells exposed to amiodarone-induced oxidative insult by activating the CaMKK2/AMPK/Nrf2 pathway

BackgroundOcular toxicity is a severe adverse effect that limits the chronic clinical use of the antiarrhythmic drug amiodarone. Here, we aimed to evaluate the cytoprotective effect of artemisinin and explore the potential signalling pathways in human retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cell cultures.MethodsD407 cell cultures were exposed to amiodarone and the impact of artemisinin was evaluated. The key parameters included lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release, intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, and the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP). We also assessed the protein levels of cleaved caspase-3, cleaved poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP), phosphorylated adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK)ɑ (p-AMPK), calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase kinase 2 (CaMKK2), and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2).ResultsArtemisinin reduced the cytotoxicity induced by amiodarone, as reflected by decreased LDH release, ROS generation, and MMP disruption. Additionally, artemisinin increased p-AMPK, CaMKK2, and Nrf2 protein levels. Inhibition of AMPK, CaMKK2, or Nrf2 abolished the cytoprotective effect of artemisinin. AMPK activation and Nrf2 knockdown further supported its protective role.ConclusionsArtemisinin protected RPE cells from amiodarone-induced damage via the CaMKK2/AMPK/Nrf2 pathway. The in vivo experiments in mice confirmed its efficacy in preventing retinal injury caused by amiodarone. These results suggest that an artemisinin-based eye formulation could be repurposed for treating amiodarone-induced ocular toxicity.

MitoTam induces ferroptosis and increases radiosensitivity in head and neck cancer cells

Background and purposeRadiotherapy (RT) is an integral treatment part for patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), but radioresistance remains a major issue. Here, we use MitoTam, a mitochondrially targeted analogue of tamoxifen, which we aim to stimulate ferroptotic cell death with, and sensitize radioresistant cells to RT. Materials and methodsWe assessed viability, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, disruption of mitochondrial membrane potential, and lipid peroxidation in radiosensitive (UT-SCC-40) and radioresistant (UT-SCC-5) HNSCC cells following MitoTam treatment. To assess ferroptosis specificity, we used the ferroptosis inhibitor ferrostatin-1 (fer-1). Also, total antioxidant capacity and sensitivity to tert-butyl hydroperoxide were evaluated to assess ROS-responses. 53BP1 staining was used to assess radiosensitivity after MitoTam treatment. ResultsOur data revealed increased ROS, cell death, disruption of mitochondrial membrane potential, and lipid peroxidation following MitoTam treatment in both cell lines. Adverse effects of MitoTam on cell death, membrane potential and lipid peroxidation were prevented by fer-1, indicating induction of ferroptosis. Radioresistant HNSCC cells were less sensitive to the effects of MitoTam due to intrinsic higher antioxidant capacity. MitoTam treatment prior to RT led to superadditive residual DNA damage expressed by 53BP1 foci compared to RT or MitoTam alone. ConclusionMitoTam induced ferroptosis in HNSCC cells, which could be used to overcome the elevated antioxidant capacity of radioresistant cells and sensitize such cells to RT. Treatment with MitoTam followed by RT could therefore present a promising effective therapy of radioresistant cancers.Statement of significance.Radiotherapy is applied in the treatment of a majority of cancer patients. Radioresistance due to elevated antioxidant levels can be overcome by promoting ferroptotic cell death combining ROS-inducing drug MitoTam with radiotherapy.

Growth inhibitory potential of quinone-rich fraction of Plumbago zeylanica L. Against MG-63 osteosarcoma cells via Bax/Bcl-2 modulation

ObjectiveThe objectives of this study were to explore the cytotoxic potential of different fractions (Hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate and methanol) of Plumbago zeylanica L. root powder. MethodologyIn this study, PzMH, PzMC, PzME, and PzMM fractions from the root powder of P. zeylanica were obtained through the cold maceration technique. The cytotoxic properties of these fractions on MG-63 cells were assessed using the MTT assay. The most potent fraction was further analyzed to understand its cytotoxic mechanism. To explore its apoptosis-inducing potential, microscopic and flow cytometric studies were conducted. Additionally, western blot analysis was used to examine the expression levels of proteins associated with apoptotic pathways. ResultsPzMH showed the highest cytotoxicity against MG-63 osteosarcoma cells, with a GI50 value of 53.07 µg/ml. Flow cytometric studies revealed an upsurge in reactive oxygen species and disruption of mitochondrial membrane potential. The highest concentration of PzMH fraction (183.48 µg/ml) led to 62 % cell population arrest at G0/G1 stage. The anti-apoptotic protein Bcl2 was downregulated, with p53, cleaved-caspase 9, cleaved-caspase3, Bad and Bax expression upregulated. HPLC analysis revealed the presence of lawsone, p-coumaric acid, plumbagin, and 4-hydroxy benzaldehyde, indicating that the quinone-rich fraction of Plumbago zeylanica L. attenuates the proliferation of MG-63 osteosarcoma cells through the Bax/Bcl-2 pathway. ConclusionTo the best of our current knowledge, this marks the first documented case where the hexane fraction enriched with quinones extracted from the roots of P. zeylanica demonstrates its ability to induce apoptosis by influencing the Bax/Bcl2 pathway.

Novel indole Schiff base β-diiminato compound as an anti-cancer agent against triple-negative breast cancer: In vitro anticancer activity evaluation and in vivo acute toxicity study

Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer among women globally, with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) associated with poor prognosis and low five-year survival rates. Schiff base compounds, known for their extensive pharmacological activities, have garnered significant attention in cancer drug research. This study aimed to evaluate the anticancer potential of a novel β-diiminato compound and elucidate its mechanism of action. The compound’s effect on cell viability was assessed using MTT assays in breast cancer cell lines including MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231. Cytotoxic effects were further analyzed using trypan blue exclusion and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release assays. In order to assess the mechanism of inhibitory activity and mode of cell death induced by this compound, flow cytometry of cell cycle distribution and apoptosis analysis were carried out. Apoptosis incidence was initially assessed through cell and nuclear morphological changes (Hoechst 33342/Propidium iodide (PI) staining) and further confirmed by Annexin V/PI staining and flow cytometry analysis. In addition, the effect of this compound on the disruption of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and generation of the reactive oxygen species (ROS) was determined using the JC-1 indicator and DCFDA dye, respectively. The results demonstrated that the 24 h treatment with β-diiminato compound significantly suppressed the viability of MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cancer cells in a dose-dependent manner with the IC50 value of 2.41 ± 0.29 and 3.51 ± 0.14, respectively. The cytotoxic effect of the compound was further confirmed with a dose-dependent increase in the number of dead cells and enhanced LDH level in the culture medium. This compound exerted its anti-proliferative effect by G2/M phase cell growth arrest in MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells and induced apoptosis-mediated cell death, which involved characteristic changes in cell and nuclear morphology, phosphatidylserine externalization, mitochondrial membrane depolarization, and increased ROS level. Neither hepatotoxicity nor nephrotoxicity was detected in the biochemical and histopathological analysis confirming the safety characterization of this compound usage. Therefore, the results significantly confirmed the potential anticancer activity of a novel β-diiminato compound, as evidenced by the induction of cell cycle arrest and apoptosis, which might be driven by the ROS‑mediated mitochondrial death pathway. This compound can be a promising candidate for future anticancer drug design and TNBC treatment, and further preclinical and clinical studies are warranted.

Investigation of the role of NLRP3 inflammasome activation in new-generation BCR-ABL1 tyrosine kinase inhibitors-induced hepatotoxicity

New generation BCR-ABL1 TKIs raised attention regarding their adverse effects, including hepatotoxicity. Indeed, bosutinib and nilotinib were associated with severe hepatotoxicity compared with imatinib. Moreover, ponatinib has a boxed warning due to its potential to cause inflammatory liver damage, even death. However, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the role of NLRP3 inflammasome activation in the underlying mechanism of ponatinib and bosutinib-induced hepatotoxicity. Furthermore, we determined the initiating event of this adverse outcome pathway by measuring the levels of reactive oxygen species as well as mitochondrial membrane potential in AML12 cells. The results demonstrated that ponatinib or bosutinib markedly inhibited cell viability and caused cytosolic membrane damage in cells. Moreover, drugs (IC50) dramatically induced oxidative stress and mitochondrial membrane potential disruption, which led to upregulation in the expression levels of NLRP3 inflammasome-related genes and proteins, activation of NLRP3 inflammasomes, cleavage of gasdermin-D and caspase-1, secretion of IL-1β, and cytosolic membrane damage. Furthermore, MCC950, a well-known specific inhibitor of NLRP3 inflammasome, and antioxidant N-acetyl-l-cysteine reversed the effects of drugs on the NLRP3 signaling pathway and cytosolic membranes. In summary, NLRP3 inflammasome activation is involved in new-generation BCR-ABL1 TKIs-triggered hepatotoxicity. Mitochondrial damage and reactive oxygen species accumulation were significant upstream signaling events in this signaling pathway.

An Investigation of In Vitro Anti-Cancer Efficacy of Dihydroartemisinin-Loaded Bovine Milk Exosomes Against Triple-Negative Breast Cancer.

Repurposing drugs offers several advantages, including reduced time and cost compared to developing new drugs from scratch. It leverages existing knowledge about drug safety, dosage, and pharmacokinetics, expediting the process of clinical trials and regulatory approval. Dihydroartemisinin (DHA) is a semi-synthetic and active metabolite of all artemisinin molecules and is FDA-approved for the treatment of malaria. Apart from having anti-malarial properties, DHA also possesses anticancer properties. However, its pharmacological actions are limited by toxicity and solubility problems. To overcome these challenges and enhance its anticancer effectiveness, we designed an exosomal formulation of DHA. We isolated exosomes from bovine milk using differential ultracentrifugation and loaded DHA using sonication. Scanning and transition electron microscopy revealed a size of roughly 100nm, with a spherical shape. Furthermore, in pH 7.4 and 5.5, the exosomes exhibited burst release followed by sustained release. Multiple in vitro cell culture tests demonstrated that Exo-DHA exhibited enhanced anticancer activity, including cytotoxicity, cellular uptake, generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), disruption of mitochondrial membrane potential, and inhibition of colony formation. Additional evidence supporting Exo-DHA's anti-migration ability came from transwell migration and scratch assays. Based on these results, it was concluded that the anticancer efficacy of DHA was improved when loaded into bovine milk-derived exosomes. While the in vitro results are encouraging, more in vivo testing in suitable animal models and biochemical marker analysis are warranted.

Formononetin Defeats Multidrug-Resistant Cancers by Induction of Oxidative Stress and Suppression of P-Glycoprotein.

Multidrug resistance (MDR) remains the most difficult problem facing conventional chemotherapy for cancers. Astragalus membranaceus is a historically traditional Chinese medicine. One of its bioactive components, formononetin, exhibits antitumor effects on various cancers. However, the effects of formononetin on MDR cancers have not been evaluated. Therefore, we investigated the defense's effects of formononetin on MDR. We used rhodamine 123 and doxorubicin efflux assays to analyze the inhibition kinetics of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) mediated-efflux. Cell viability was detected by sulforhodamine B assay, and the synergistic effects of formononetin combined with chemotherapeutic agents were further calculated using CompuSyn software. Molecular docking was performed with iGEMDOCK. We discovered that formononetin considerably induced oxidative stress and the disruption of mitochondrial membrane potential in MDR cancer cells. Furthermore, formononetin inhibits the P-gp efflux function by ATPase stimulation and the uncompetitive inhibition of P-gp-mediated effluxes of rhodamine 123 and doxorubicin. The molecular docking model indicates that formononetin may bind to P-gp by strong hydrogen bonds at Arginine (Arg) 489 and Glutamine (Gln) 912. Formononetin exhibits significant synergistic effects with vincristine and doxorubicin toward MDR cancer cells, and it synergistically suppressed tumor growth in vivo with paclitaxel. These results suggest that formononetin should be seen as a potential candidate for the adjuvant therapy of MDR cancers.

Caffeic acid inhibits the tumorigenicity of triple-negative breast cancer cells through the FOXO1/FIS pathway

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) still one of the most challenging sub-type in breast cancer clinical. Caffeic acid (CA) derived from effective components of traditional Chinese herbal medicine has been show potential against TNBCs. Our research has found that CA can inhibit the proliferation of TNBC cells while also suppressing the size of cancer stem cell spheres. Additionally, it reduces reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and disruption of mitochondrial membrane potential. Simultaneously, CA influences the stemness of TNBC cells by reducing the expression of the stem cell marker protein CD44. Furthermore, we have observed that CA can modulate the FOXO1/FIS signaling pathway, disrupting mitochondrial function, inducing mitochondrial autophagy, and exerting anti-tumor activity. Additionally, changes in the immune microenvironment were detected using a mass cytometer, we found that CA can induce M1 polarization of macrophages, enhancing anti-tumor immune responses to exert anti-tumor activity. In summary, CA can be considered as a lead compound for further research in targeting TNBC.

Exploring therapeutic approaches against Naegleria fowleri infections through the COVID box

Naegleria fowleri, known as the brain-eating amoeba, is the pathogen that causes the primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM), a severe neurodegenerative disease with a fatality rate exceeding 95%. Moreover, PAM cases commonly involved previous activities in warm freshwater bodies that allow amoebae-containing water through the nasal passages. Hence, awareness among healthcare professionals and the general public are the key to contribute to a higher and faster number of diagnoses worldwide. Current treatment options for PAM, such as amphotericin B and miltefosine, are limited by potential cytotoxic effects. In this context, the repurposing of existing compounds has emerged as a promising strategy. In this study, the evaluation of the COVID Box which contains 160 compounds demonstrated significant in vitro amoebicidal activity against two type strains of N. fowleri. From these compounds, terconazole, clemastine, ABT-239 and PD-144418 showed a higher selectivity against the parasite compared to the remaining products. In addition, programmed cell death assays were conducted with these four compounds, unveiling compatible metabolic events in treated amoebae. These compounds exhibited chromatin condensation and alterations in cell membrane permeability, indicating their potential to induce programmed cell death. Assessment of mitochondrial membrane potential disruption and a significant reduction in ATP production emphasized the impact of these compounds on the mitochondria, with the identification of increased ROS production underscoring their potential as effective treatment options. This study emphasizes the potential of the mentioned COVID Box compounds against N. fowleri, providing a path for enhanced PAM therapies.

Targeted inhibition of branched-chain amino acid metabolism drives apoptosis of glioblastoma by facilitating ubiquitin degradation of Mfn2 and oxidative stress

Glioblastoma is one of the most challenging malignancies with high aggressiveness and invasiveness and its development and progression of glioblastoma highly depends on branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) metabolism. The study aimed to investigate effects of inhibition of BCAA metabolism with cytosolic branched-chain amino acid transaminase (BCATc) Inhibitor 2 on glioblastoma, elucidate its underlying mechanisms, and explore therapeutic potential of targeting BCAA metabolism. The expression of BCATc was upregulated in glioblastoma and BCATc Inhibitor 2 precipitated apoptosis both in vivo and in vitro with the activation of Bax/Bcl2/Caspase-3/Caspase-9 axis. In addition, BCATc Inhibitor 2 promoted K63-linkage ubiquitination of mitofusin 2 (Mfn2), which subsequently caused lysosomal degradation of Mfn2, and then oxidative stress, mitochondrial fission and loss of mitochondrial membrane potential. Furthermore, BCATc Inhibitor 2 treatment resulted in metabolic reprogramming, and significant inhibition of expression of ATP5A, UQCRC2, SDHB and COX II, indicative of suppressed oxidative phosphorylation. Moreover, Mfn2 overexpression or scavenging mitochondria-originated reactive oxygen species (ROS) with mito-TEMPO ameliorated BCATc Inhibitor 2-induced oxidative stress, mitochondrial membrane potential disruption and mitochondrial fission, and abrogated the inhibitory effect of BCATc Inhibitor 2 on glioblastoma cells through PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling. All of these findings indicate suppression of BCAA metabolism promotes glioblastoma cell apoptosis via disruption of Mfn2-mediated mitochondrial dynamics and inhibition of PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway, and suggest that BCAA metabolism can be targeted for developing therapeutic agents to treat glioblastoma.

New Tin (IV) and Organotin (IV) Complexes with a Hybrid Thiosemicarbazone/Hydrazone Ligand: Synthesis, Crystal Structure, and Antiproliferative Activity.

Nowadays, the search for new chemotherapeutic agents with low toxicity and high selectivity is a major concern. In this paper, we report the synthesis and characterization of a hybrid thiosemicarbazone/hydrazone ligand in its neutral form (L1H2) and as the chloride salt ([L1H3]Cl)-, three diorganotin (IV) complexes, and one complex with Sn (IV). The compounds have been fully characterized by IR, mass spectra, 1H, 13C, and 119Sn NMR, 119Sn CP/MAS NMR, and by single crystal X-ray diffraction. The organotin compounds have the empirical formula [SnR2L1] (R = Me, Bu, and Ph), but in the solid state, they are polymeric species with seven coordination number due to weak coordination of the pyridine nitrogen, whereas in solution, the polymeric structure is lost to afford hexacoordinate monomeric species. Reaction with SnI4 yields complex [Sn (L1)2]·EtOH, with the metal in a distorted dodecahedral arrangement. We have evaluated the antiproliferative activity of the two forms of the ligands and the four coordination compounds against MDA-MB-231, HeLa, PC3, and HepG2 cancer cell lines, and WI-38 normal cell line, and all the compounds present higher activity than cisplatin, used as the standard control. To investigate the mode of action, we have selected the most active complex, containing phenyl substituents, and used the triple negative breast cancer cell line MDA-MB-231. The results show that the complex induces apoptotic cell death promoted by generation of reactive oxygen species and by disruption of mitochondrial membrane potential.

Pluronic F-127-coated ZnO nanoparticles as superior photosensitizers for effective bladder cancer photodynamic therapy: In-vitro evaluation

Bladder cancer is the most prevalent malignancy of the urinary system and ranks among the top ten most common cancers in humans. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) demonstrates significant promise in cancer treatment due to its high selectivity and minimal side effects. Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) exhibit substantial potential in various biomedical applications, including cancer therapy. This study systematically investigates the potential of bare and Pluronic F-127-coated ZnO NPs as photosensitizers (PSs) for effective photodynamic therapy against the RT4 bladder cancer cell line, marking the first such exploration. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) micrographs reveal the formation of a Pluronic F-127 coating layer with thickness ranging from approximately 3 nm–7 nm on the particle surface. The Pluronic coating process significantly enhances the cytotoxicity of ZnO NPs under dark conditions and during photodynamic therapy on the RT4 bladder cancer cell line. Additionally, the impact of PDT using bare and coated ZnO NPs is further evaluated through a 3D spheroid assay, which better replicates the real tumor environment for photodynamic therapy. Hoechst and rhodamine assays confirm the induction of apoptosis, characterized by nuclear condensation and disruption of mitochondrial membrane potential in the cells. This study advances the potential of ZnO NPs in bladder cancer photodynamic therapy and highlights the importance of Pluronic F-127 coatings, paving the way for more effective and targeted cancer treatments.

Apoptosis Response in Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Cells after Methotrexate Treatment-A Systematic Review

Background: Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is a malignancy characterized by the overproduction of immature white blood cells in the bone marrow. Methotrexate (MTX) is a cornerstone chemotherapy agent utilized in ALL treatment due to its ability to induce apoptosis in cancerous cells. MTX’s action involves inhibiting dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR), leading to impaired DNA and RNA synthesis, yet resistance to MTX and its exact apoptotic mechanisms remain areas of ongoing research. Objective: This systematic review aims to elucidate the mechanisms by which MTX induces apoptosis in ALL cells and to assess the clinical implications of these findings for improving therapeutic strategies. Methods: Adhering to PRISMA guidelines, databases including Google Scholar, Embase, PubMed, and Web of Science were searched for studies published between 2000 and 2023. Studies were included if they involved MTX treatment of ALL cell lines and assessed apoptosis. Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) tools were used for quality assessment. Data extraction and thematic analysis were employed to synthesize findings. Results: Twenty-six studies met the inclusion criteria. Key mechanisms of MTX-induced apoptosis included disruption of mitochondrial membrane potential, activation of the JNK signaling pathway, modulation of BCL-2 family proteins, and interference with folate metabolism. Resistance mechanisms and the therapeutic potential of MTX polyglutamates were also identified. Conclusion: MTX induces apoptosis in ALL cells through multiple pathways, primarily by disrupting folate metabolism and mitochondrial function. The findings reinforce the necessity for personalized approaches in MTX-based therapy, considering the emerging resistance patterns, and highlight the potential of MTX polyglutamates in enhancing treatment efficacy.

In vitro and in ovo photodynamic efficacy of nebulized curcumin-loaded tetraether lipid liposomes prepared by DC as stable drug delivery system

Lung cancer is one of the most common causes of high mortality worldwide. Current treatment strategies, e.g., surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy, insufficiently affect the overall outcome. In this study, we used curcumin as a natural photosensitizer in photodynamic therapy and encapsulated it in liposomes consisting of stabilizing tetraether lipids aiming for a pulmonary drug delivery system against lung cancer. The liposomes with either hydrolyzed glycerol-dialkyl-glycerol tetraether (hGDGT) in different ratios or hydrolyzed glycerol-dialkyl-nonitol tetraether (hGDNT) were prepared by dual centrifugation (DC), an innovative method for liposome preparation. The liposomes’ physicochemical characteristics before and after nebulization and other nebulization characteristics confirmed their suitability. Morphological characterization using atomic force and transmission electron microscopy showed proper vesicular structures indicative of liposomes. Qualitative and quantitative uptake of the curcumin-loaded liposomes in lung adenocarcinoma (A549) cells was visualized and proven. Phototoxic effects of the liposomes were detected on A549 cells, showing decreased cell viability. The generation of reactive oxygen species required for PDT and disruption of mitochondrial membrane potential were confirmed. Moreover, the chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) model was used to further evaluate biocompatibility and photodynamic efficacy in a 3D cell culture context. Photodynamic efficacy was assessed by PET/CT after nebulization of the liposomes onto the xenografted tumors on the CAM with subsequent irradiation. The physicochemical properties and the efficacy of tetraether lipid liposomes encapsulating curcumin, especially liposomes containing hGDNT, in 2D and 3D cell cultures seem promising for future PDT usage against lung cancer.

Synthesis of a Novel Gold(I) Complex and Evaluation of Its Anticancer Properties in Breast Cancer Cells.

Platinum complexes are commonly used for cancer chemotherapy; however, they are not only highly-priced but also have various side effects. It is, therefore, important to design affordable anticancer drugs with minimal side effects. We synthesized a new gold(I) complex, PF6{(BDPEA)(TPPMS) digold(I)} (abbreviated as PBTDG) and tested its cytotoxicity in MCF-7 breast cancer cells. We also evaluated the effects of PBTDG on mitochondrial membrane potential, generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and apoptosis in breast cancer cells. The IC50 values for PBTDG and sorafenib were found to be 1.48 μM and 4.45 μM, respectively. Exposure to PBTDG caused significant and concentration-dependent depletion of ATP and disruption of mitochondrial membrane potential. PBTDG induced 2.6, 3.6, and 5.7-fold apoptosis for 1 μM, 3 μM, and 10 μM concentrations, respectively. The induction of apoptosis by the same concentrations of sorafenib was 1.2, 1.3, and 1.6-fold, respectively. The low concentration of PBTDG (1 μM) induced the generation of ROS by 99.83%, which was significantly higher than the ROS generation caused by the same concentration of sorafenib (73.76%). The ROS induction caused by higher concentrations (5 μM) of PBTDG and sorafenib were 104.95% and 122.11%, respectively. The lower concentration of PBTDG produced similar cytotoxicity and apoptotic effects that were caused by a comparatively higher concentration of known anticancer drug (sorafenib). The anticancer effects of PBTDG are attributed to its tendency to disrupt mitochondrial membrane potential, induction of apoptosis and generation of ROS. Further studies are warranted to test the anticancer effects of PBTDG in animal models of cancer.

Subcellular distribution of prohibitin 1 in rat liver during liver regeneration and its cellular implication.

The function of prohibitin 1 (Phb1) during liver regeneration (LR) remains relatively unexplored. Our previous research identified downregulation of Phb1 in rat liver mitochondria 24 h after 70% partial hepatectomy (PHx), as determined by subcellular proteomic analysis. To investigate the potential role of Phb1 during LR. We examined changes in Phb1 mRNA and protein levels, subcellular distribution, and abundance in rat liver during LR following 70% PHx. We also evaluated mitochondrial changes and apoptosis using electron microscopy and flow cytometry. RNA-interference-mediated knockdown of Phb1 (PHBi) was performed in BRL-3A cells. Compared with sham-operation control groups, Phb1 mRNA and protein levels in 70% PHx test groups were downregulated at 24 h, then upregulated at 72 and 168 h. Phb1 was mainly located in mitochondria, showed a reduced abundance at 24 h, significantly increased at 72 h, and almost recovered to normal at 168 h. Phb1 was also present in nuclei, with continuous increase in abundance observed 72 and 168 h after 70% PHx. The altered ultrastructure and reduced mass of mitochondria during LR had almost completely recovered to normal at 168 h. PHBi in BRL-3A cells resulted in increased S-phase entry, a higher number of apoptotic cells, and disruption of mitochondrial membrane potential. Phb1 may contribute to maintaining mitochondrial stability and could play a role in regulating cell proliferation and apoptosis of rat liver cells during LR.

Chemotherapeutic and Antiproliferative Effect of Purified Protein from Marine Catfish Tachysurus Dussumieri on Human Colon Cancer Cell Line.

The present study aimed to investigate the purified protein from the epidermal mucus of marine catfish Tachysurus dussumieri on the human colon cancer cell line. The bioactive protein was purified with the Anion exchange chromatography and the collected fractions were then tested to assess cell viability in HT 29 cells through the MTT assay. The most responding active purified protein fraction (PPF III) was characterized with the MALDI-TOF/MS it shared a similar homology and sequence with 90% of antimicrobial peptides from external secretions of amphibians. Typical morphological changes of apoptotic cells, including cell shrinkage and detachment, DNA damage, and nuclear condensation were observed after the treatment of bioactive protein. PPF III triggered ROS, increasing the LDH activity, disruption of mitochondrial membrane potential, and upregulation of Cleaved caspase 3/9, Cytochrome-c, Bax, and downregulation of Bcl-2 protein and gene expression on HT 29 cells.