Proteomic analysis reveals that Polygonatum cyrtonema Hua polysaccharide ameliorates mice muscle atrophy in chemotherapy-induced cachexia.

In this study, researchers investigated the effects of Polygonatum cyrtonema Hua polysaccharide (PCP) on muscle atrophy caused by chemotherapy. They found that PCP, a compound derived from Polygonati Rhizoma herb, significantly reduced muscle loss and muscle fiber atrophy in mice. It also suppressed the decrease in immunoglobulin levels and the increase in pro-inflammatory factor interleukin-6 (IL-6). Proteomic analysis identified two primary targets of PCP: diacylglycerol kinase (DGKζ) and cathepsin L (CTSL). The study suggests that PCP regulates the autophagy-lysosome and ubiquitin-proteasome systems, providing a potential treatment for chemotherapy-induced muscle atrophy.

Tang XY et al (2023).

J Pharm Biomed Anal.

DOI:

10.1016/j.jpba.2023.115533

PubMed:

37336040

Integrating Computational Methods in Network Pharmacology and In Silico Screening to Uncover Multi-targeting Phytochemicals against Aberrant Protein Glycosylation in Lung Cancer.

This work explores the potential of certain plant compounds to interact with cancer-associated glycoproteins. The researchers used computational methods and docking approaches to identify phytochemicals from selected plants with drug-like properties. They created a network to analyze the interactions between the compounds and glycoproteins. Several compounds, including α-pinene, cyanomaclurin, genistein, and quercetin, showed potential in binding to known cancer biomarkers. The researchers also performed cytotoxicity assays on plant extracts, finding that certain extracts had growth inhibitory activity against lung cancer cells. This research could help further understand the cytotoxic activities of these plant compounds.

Grijaldo SJB et al (2023).

ACS Omega.

DOI:

10.1021/acsomega.2c07542

PubMed:

37332828

Phellinus igniarius polysaccharides induced mitochondrial apoptosis of hepatic carcinoma by enhancing reactive oxygen species-mediated AKT/p53 signalling pathways.

Jin X et al (2023).

Nat Prod Res.

DOI:

10.1080/14786419.2023.2222428

PubMed:

37328932

Adjunctive effect of compound Kushen injection for cancer: An overview of systematic reviews.

Compound Kushen Injection (CKI), derived from Chinese herbs, contains potent anti-tumor compounds and is commonly used as adjuvant cancer treatment in China, showing promise in fighting tumors and complementing conventional therapies.

Li C et al (2023).

J Ethnopharmacol.

DOI:

10.1016/j.jep.2023.116778

PubMed:

37328082

Network pharmacology and molecular docking-based identification of drug candidates and key targets of Allium sativum for colorectal cancer treatment.

Scientists are exploring alternative treatments for colorectal cancer (CRC) due to the limitations of current chemotherapeutics. In this study, researchers investigated the potential anti-CRC effects of a medicinal plant, (). They analyzed the plant's bioactive compounds and identified key targets for CRC treatment. Gene set enrichment analysis revealed the biological processes and pathways that could potentially be restored in CRC. Molecular docking studies identified beta-sitosterol and alpha-bisabolene as compounds with the highest binding affinity for the key targets. Further experimental studies are needed to validate these findings. This research has the potential to contribute to the development of more effective and targeted CRC treatments.

Olukunle OF, Omoboyede V and Chukwuemeka PO (2023).

J Biomol Struct Dyn.

DOI:

10.1080/07391102.2023.2220823

PubMed:

37325859

Molecular docking appraisal of Dysphania ambrosioides phytochemicals as potential inhibitor of a key triple-negative breast cancer driver gene.

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive form of breast cancer that lacks response to hormone therapy. There is a need for targeted molecular therapy for TNBC. The PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway plays a crucial role in TNBC, and AKT is a promising therapeutic target. In this study, researchers screened 25 compounds from a traditional herbal recipe for their anticancer properties. They found two compounds, cynaroside and epicatechin gallate, to be potent inhibitors of AKT 1 and 2 isoforms. These compounds demonstrate drug-like properties and show structural stability. Computational modeling suggests they could be effective drug candidates for TNBC, but further research is needed for clinical application.

Anifowose LO et al (2023).

In Silico Pharmacol.

DOI:

10.1007/s40203-023-00152-6

PubMed:

37323538

Curcumin inhibits human cancer cell growth and migration through downregulation of SVCT2.

Curcumin, extracted from turmeric, has long been used in traditional medicine for its medicinal properties. A protein called SVCT2, responsible for transporting Vitamin C into cells, is involved in tumor progression and metastasis. However, the impact of curcumin on SVCT2 remains unknown. In our study, we found that curcumin reduced the expression of SVCT2 in cancer cells with wild-type p53. This resulted in decreased cancer cell growth and migration, as well as reduced MMP2 activity. Our findings provide new insights into curcumin's anticancer effects and offer potential therapeutic strategies for treating metastatic migration.

Jang SY et al (2023).

Cell Biochem Funct.

DOI:

10.1002/cbf.3824

PubMed:

37322603

Patient' and social aspects related to complementary mistletoe therapy in patients with breast cancer: A systematic review commissioned by the German agency for Health Technology Assessment.

In a health technology assessment, researchers examined the "Patient and Social aspects" of mistletoe therapy in breast cancer patients in German-speaking countries. Many patients choose this therapy alongside conventional treatment to reduce side effects and enhance their quality of life. By evaluating the value for users, the study aims to understand the significance of complementary mistletoe therapy in breast cancer care.

Steigenberger C et al (2023).

Eur J Oncol Nurs.

DOI:

10.1016/j.ejon.2023.102338

PubMed:

37321128