Article
Plant Sciences
Keisuke Kobayashi, Masaomi Yamamura, Bunzo Mikami, Akira Shiraishi, Masato Kumatani, Honoo Satake, Eiichiro Ono, Toshiaki Umezawa
Summary: Identification and characterization of Anthriscus sylvestris DPS (AsDPS). Phylogenetic analysis showed that AsDPS belongs to the 2-ODD superfamily and shares moderate amino acid sequence identity (40.8%) with P. hexandrum deoxypodophyllotoxin synthase (PhDPS). Protein modeling and site-directed mutagenesis indicated that the Tyr305 residue of AsDPS probably contributes to substrate recognition. This study advances our understanding of the podophyllotoxin biosynthetic pathway in A. sylvestris and provides new insight into 2-ODD involved in plant secondary metabolism.
PLANT AND CELL PHYSIOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Davide Decembrino, Alessandra Raffaele, Ronja Knoefel, Marco Girhard, Vlada B. Urlacher
Summary: Researchers have developed a multi-enzyme cascade approach to produce the anti-neoplastic compound (-)-deoxypodophyllotoxin from plant compounds. They successfully extended this method to prepare other related compounds, representing a significant advancement towards developing more sustainable supply routes for pharmaceutical production.
MICROBIAL CELL FACTORIES
(2021)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Xin Zhang, Tingting Yang, Xin Jin, Kaige Lin, Xiling Dai, Ting Gao, Guozheng Huang, Minghui Fan, Liang Ma, Zi Liu, Jianguo Cao
Summary: In this study, podophyllotoxin derivatives incorporating piperazinyl-cinnamic amide moieties at the 4-position were synthesized. Compound 6e showed the best anti-proliferative properties and inhibited mitochondria-associated apoptosis in MCF-7 cells.
BIOORGANIC CHEMISTRY
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Medicinal
Jiafu Leng, Yongjun Zhao, Ping Sheng, Yuanzheng Xia, Tingting Chen, Shifang Zhao, Shanshan Xie, Xiangyu Yan, Xiaobing Wang, Yong Yin, Lingyi Kong
Summary: The newly synthesized compound C3 exhibits potential anticancer activity by targeting tubulin to inhibit cancer cell proliferation and angiogenesis.
JOURNAL OF MEDICINAL CHEMISTRY
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Organic
Jun Yang, Guang-Ping Liang, Xiong-Li Liu
Summary: This study investigated the effects and mechanisms of 4-(1H-indol-1-yl)-4-oxobutanoic acid spliced podophyllotoxin derivatives (3a-3l) on tumor cells. The antitumor activity of (3a-3l) against A549 cells, A549/DDP cells, and MCF-7 cells was evaluated using the MTT method. The results showed that compound 3l had the most inhibitory effect and selectivity against A549/DDP cells, suggesting it could be a lead compound for developing new multi-drug resistant anti-tumor drugs.
SYNTHETIC COMMUNICATIONS
(2023)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Lu Jin, Zhijun Song, Fang Cai, Lijun Ruan, Renwang Jiang
Summary: Plants containing podophyllotoxin and its analogues have a long history of use as folk medicines. The unique chemical structures and potent biological activities of these compounds have attracted global attention. Over ninety natural podophyllotoxins have been isolated, and modifications of their structures have led to the development of various derivatives with optimized anti-tumor activity. This review provides a comprehensive summary of the latest research on natural podophyllotoxins, including their sources, structural modifications, and biological activities. Special attention is given to the structural modifications and optimized antitumor activity. It is notable that etoposide, a derivative of podophyllotoxin, has the potential to prevent cytokine storms caused by recent SARS-CoV-2 viral infections.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
De-sheng Cai, Shao-Yan Lou, Su Huo, Feng Gao, Wen -Min Pi, Ke-Dian Chen, Cheng Wang, Xiao-Yun Yang, Jing-Yi Jiao, Bing Xu, Peng -Long Wang, Hai -Min Lei
Summary: Conjugation of bile acids with podophyllotoxin improves selectivity and activity against liver cancer cell lines.
BIOORGANIC CHEMISTRY
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Diana I. Ivanova, Paraskev T. Nedialkov, Alexander N. Tashev, Marta Olech, Renata Nowak, Yana E. Ilieva, Zlatina K. Kokanova-Nedialkova, Teodora N. Atanasova, George Angelov, Hristo M. Najdenski
Summary: This study conducted a comprehensive comparative investigation on junipers sourced from different continents, aiming to identify species that produce the anticancer drug precursor PPT and other lignans. The research found that cytotoxic juniper leaf extracts exhibited a broad spectrum of activity on cancer cell lines, with the diversity of lignans playing a crucial role in their antiproliferative properties. Several species of the Juniperus genus were identified as potential sources of drug precursors with pharmaceutical applications.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Meng Yin, Yongsheng Fang, Xiaotong Sun, Minggao Xue, Caimei Zhang, Zhiyun Zhu, Yamiao Meng, Lingmei Kong, Yi Yi Myint, Yan Li, Jingfeng Zhao, Xiaodong Yang
Summary: Three series of podophyllotoxin derivatives were synthesized with various nitrogen-containing heterocycles. The antitumor activity of these derivatives was evaluated against human tumor cell lines in vitro. The results showed that podophyllotoxin-imidazolium salts and podophyllotoxin-1,2,4-triazolium salts a1-a20 exhibited excellent cytotoxic activity, with a6 being the most potent compound. Podophyllotoxin-1,2,3-triazole derivatives b1-b5 showed medium cytotoxic activity, while podophyllotoxin-amine compounds c1-c3 displayed good cytotoxic activity. Further experiments revealed that compound a6 induced G2/M cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in HCT-116 cells.
FRONTIERS IN CHEMISTRY
(2023)
Review
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Yuqin Xu, Zihan He, Li Chen, Huai Wang
Summary: Numerous tubulin-targeted podophyllotoxin congeners have been developed to enhance the pharmaceutical properties of podophyllotoxin. Understanding the interaction between tubulin and its downstream signaling pathways is crucial for comprehending the anticancer mechanism of podophyllotoxin-based conjugates. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in tubulin-targeting podophyllotoxin derivatives, particularly their antitumor activities and the potential molecular signaling pathways involved in tubulin depolymerization. This information is valuable for researchers involved in the design and development of anticancer drugs derived from podophyllotoxin. Additionally, challenges and future perspectives in this field are also discussed.
DRUG DISCOVERY TODAY
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Meitao Duan, Ahmed Mahal, Ban Mohammed, Yongyan Zhu, Huaming Tao, Shaoyu Mai, Maysoon Al-Haideri, Quanhong Zhu
Summary: Three new derivatives of tetrahydrocurcumin were synthesized as potent antitumor agents using 'click chemistry' catalyzed by copper(II), with compound 6 showing significant inhibitory activity against HCT-116 cell line. Further modifications of tetrahydrocurcumin structure are suggested to improve its anticancer activity.
NATURAL PRODUCT RESEARCH
(2022)
Review
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Yan Li, Yu-Feng Du, Feng Gao, Jin-Bu Xu, Ling-Li Zheng, Gang Liu, Yu Lei
Summary: Microtubule stabilizers are effective agents for cancer treatment, and taccalonolides, as a novel class of microtubule-stabilizing agents, not only possess similar activity but also reverse multi-drug resistance. Taccalonolides have gained attention due to their structural diversity, unique mechanism of action, and low toxicity.
FRONTIERS IN PHARMACOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Catarina Garcia, Carlos E. S. Bernardes, M. Fatima M. Piedade, Gaia Fumagalli, Eleonora Colombo, Ana M. Diaz-Lanza, Catarina P. Reis, Isabel Correia, Lia Ascensao, Daniele Passarella, Manuel E. Minas da Piedade, Patricia Rijo
Summary: A pharmaceutical formulation consisting of a DHR-squalene conjugate was synthesized and analyzed using different techniques. The easy production of DHR-squalene conjugate nanoparticles in phosphate buffer suggests that this nanodelivery platform could effectively improve the solubility and bioavailability of DHR, achieving therapeutical systemic levels.
Review
Cell Biology
Hua-yang Fan, Zhuo-li Zhu, Hong-chun Xian, Hao-fan Wang, Bing-jun Chen, Ya-Jie Tang, Ya-ling Tang, Xin-hua Liang
Summary: Podophyllotoxin (PTOX) is a biologically active compound derived from the podophyllum plant, and its derivatives, such as etoposide and teniposide, show potential for cancer treatment. Studies have revealed that PTOX derivatives exert anticancer effects by inducing cell cycle arrest and DNA/RNA breaks. Despite the development of many derivatives, research on the interactions with downstream cancer-related signaling pathways is still limited.
FRONTIERS IN CELL AND DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY
(2021)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Soren Brogger Christensen
Summary: Paclitaxel, a terpenoid compound, has been discovered and expanded the treatment options for breast, lung, prostate, and ovarian cancer. It is derived from the bark of Taxia brevifolia and sustainable supply is ensured through cultivation of Taxus chinensis or semi-synthesis from other taxanes. Its solubility problems have been overcome by the formulation of a nanoparticle albumin-bound paclitaxel. The mechanism of action of paclitaxel is its affinity towards microtubules, but it also exhibits activity against slow-growing tumors.
Correction
Plant Sciences
Lingmiao Wen, Tinglan Zhang, Fangfang Chen, Lin Hu, Chongyang Dou, Xian Ding, Alvin Altamirano, Guihua Wei, Zhiyong Yan
JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY
(2024)
Article
Plant Sciences
Qing Tang, Mengfei Xu, Shunqin Long, Yaya Yu, Changju Ma, Rui Wang, Jing Li, Xi Wang, Fang Fang, Ling Han, Wanyin Wu, Sumei Wang
Summary: This study demonstrates that Fuzheng Kang-Ai (FZKA) decoction can inhibit the cell growth, proliferation, and invasion of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) and reverse the acquired resistance of gefitinib. FZKA exerts its effects by regulating the p-ERK1/2-EZH2-Snail/EGFR signaling pathway.
JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY
(2024)
Article
Plant Sciences
Xiang Zhao, Xianrun Hu, Qi Xie, Shenglan Qi, Zedong Xiang, Xin Sun, Zhejun Xie, Rui Dang, Limei Zhou, Wei Liu, Xuemei Cheng, Changhong Wang
Summary: This study investigated the effects of Fufangmuniziqi formula (FFMN) on Alzheimer's disease (AD) and the role of alkaloids, flavonoids, and saponins in the process. The results showed that FFMN improved cognitive and memory impairment in the AD mouse model. Alkaloids enhanced the cholinergic system, while flavonoids and saponins attenuated neuroinflammation and oxidative stress. These findings suggest that the combination of alkaloid, flavonoid, and saponin fractions derived from FFMN is a promising anti-AD agent.
JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY
(2024)
Article
Plant Sciences
Bangjian Dong, Ying Peng, Mengyue Wang, Chongsheng Peng, Xiaobo Li
Summary: This study elucidated the tissue distribution and excretion characteristics of the non-polysaccharide components of Sijunzi decoction in rats with spleen deficiency syndrome. It proposed new insights into the rationality of the compatibility of Sijunzi decoction.
JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY
(2024)
Article
Plant Sciences
Jung-Seop Kim, Man-Gi Kim, Ji Eun Ryu, Ye-Been Lee, Quan Feng Liu, Kwang Ki Kim, Seung-Hun Cho, Sung Joon Shin, Byung-Soo Koo, Hyung-Kyoon Choi
Summary: Co-treatment with WCW and donepezil shows promise in improving cognitive function and serum metabolic profiles in a scopolamine-induced AD model. This combination therapy may reduce tyrosine and methionine levels, enhancing cognitive function by mitigating known risk factors for AD. The study provides a foundation for developing other bioactive compounds in AD treatment.
JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY
(2024)
Article
Plant Sciences
Kuang-Hsing Chiang, Tain-Junn Cheng, Wei-Chih Kan, Hsien-Yi Wang, Jui-Chen Li, Yan-Ling Cai, Chia-Hui Cheng, Yi-Chien Liu, Chia-Yu Chang, Jiunn-Jye Chuu
Summary: The ethanolic extract of Orthosiphon aristatus (OA) demonstrated an improving effect on memory and could serve as a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's disease (AD).
JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY
(2024)
Article
Plant Sciences
Meryem Tourabi, Asmae EL Ghouizi, Ghizlane Nouioura, Khaoula Faiz, Hind Elfatemi, Karima El-yagoubi, Badiaa Lyoussi, Elhoussine Derwich
Summary: Mentha longifolia is a native plant in Morocco, traditionally used to treat various diseases. This study analyzed the phytochemical profile of the aqueous extract of M. longifolia and evaluated its acute and subacute toxicity in mice. The results showed that M. longifolia extract is rich in phenolic compounds and has no observed toxicity up to a certain dosage limit.
JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY
(2024)
Article
Plant Sciences
Yue Zhang, Liang Li, Tao Chai, Han Xu, Hong-yan Du, Yan Jiang
Summary: Mulberry leaf multi-components (MMC) have hypoglycemic effects and can improve insulin resistance by activating the PI-3K/Akt signaling pathway. These findings highlight the multi-component, multi-target, and combined effects of MMC, and suggest it may be further developed as a hypoglycemic drug.
JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY
(2024)
Correction
Plant Sciences
Shan Luo, Yuanchun Chen, Ruoxi Zhao, Donglai Ma, Yanmeng Zhao, Ying Zhang, Jianming Jiang, Wentao Yu
JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY
(2024)
Article
Plant Sciences
Nittaya Chansiw, Pattranuch Chusri, Siwaporn Praman, Thaneeya Hawiset, Wannisa Sukhorum, Sorraya Champakam, Rawiwan Charoensup
Summary: This study evaluates the anti-inflammatory activity of Prabchompoothaweep (PCT) extract in an animal model. The results show that PCT significantly reduces inflammation and pro-inflammatory cytokines in acute and sub-acute inflammation. These findings suggest that PCT could be a new option for the treatment of inflammatory diseases.
JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY
(2024)
Article
Plant Sciences
Yanting Wang, Guoqiang Liang, Wei Mu, Shu Sun, Xuanyi Chen, Xiaofeng Xu
Summary: Bushen Tianjing Recipe (BTR) is a tonic-kidney formula of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) with good therapeutic effects in clinical settings. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of BTR on women's reproductive system by incubating miR-23a-induced KGN cells.
JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY
(2024)
Article
Plant Sciences
Jiayi Zhi, Li Yin, Zhoudong Zhang, Yaozhong Lv, Fan Wu, Yang Yang, Enming Zhang, Huanqiu Li, Ning Lu, Mengze Zhou, Qinghua Hu
Summary: This study verified the pharmacodynamics of JSW in the treatment of AD and explored its potential mechanism using network pharmacology, molecular docking, and experimental validation.
JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY
(2024)
Review
Plant Sciences
Elizabeth Syowai Mutinda, Dong-Juan Zhang, Felix Wambua Muema, Elijah Mbandi Mkala, Emmanuel Nyongesa Waswa, Wyclif Ochieng Odago, Clintone Onyango Ochieng, Moses Kirega Gichua, John Kamau Muchuku, Elizabeth Kamande, Guang-Wan Hu
Summary: This article reviews the traditional uses, pharmacological properties, and phytoconstituents of Balanophora species, revealing that they contain diverse chemical compounds with interesting biological activities. However, research on many species in this genus is still lacking.
JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY
(2024)
Article
Plant Sciences
Luqi Cai, Yu Chen, Huizhong Xue, Yimeng Yang, Yuqi Wang, Junhe Xu, Chunyan Zhu, Long He, Yonghua Xiao
Summary: Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge (SM) has been proven to have potential therapeutic effects for diabetic nephropathy (DN) through its multi-component, multi-target, and multi-pathway pharmacological effects.
JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY
(2024)
Article
Plant Sciences
Chao Wang, Rui-Jia Fu, Ding-Qiao Xu, Qian Zuo, Ji-Ping Liu, Yu-Ping Tang
Summary: This study aimed to explore the hepatoprotective effects of Shicao on CCl4-induced acute liver injury. A rat model of acute liver injury was established and liver function indices were assessed. Untargeted metabolomics was conducted to identify differential metabolites. Network pharmacology was used to construct a network of metabolite-reaction-enzyme-gene constituents, and key components and hub genes were screened. Shicao showed hepatoprotective effects against acute liver injury in rats.
JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY
(2024)