Anticancer Research Papers - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Electrochemotherapy (ECT) is a novel anticancer therapy that combines the delivery of trains of appropriate waveforms with the local administration of chemotherapy agents. The purpose of this investigation was to assess the adjuvant potentials of ECT for the treatment of incompletely excised mast cell tumors (MCT). Twenty-eight privately-owned dogs with incompletely removed MCT were treated with intralesional bleomycin (1.5 IU/cm2) followed by the application of trains of biphasic pulses (8 pulses, 1300 V/cm, 50 + 50 micros duration, 1 Hz frequency). The overall response rate was 85% with a mean estimated time to recurrence of 52.76 +/- 6.5 months (range: 39.99 to 65.54 months, 95% CI). At the time of writing this report, the median survival time was not reached. Three dogs died of metastatic disease that they developed at the same time of local recurrence, one developed multiple cutaneous nodules at different locations and one with recurrence was re-treated and is currently disease...

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- Treatment Outcome, Dogs, Sarcoma, Recurrence

Breast cancer cells can invade and generate metastasis via either lymphatic or blood vessels. Sialyl Lewis X (SLeX) and Sialyl Lewis a (SLea) are carbohydrate molecules that mediate the adhesion between tumor cells and the endothelium. These antigens are not expressed on normal breast tissue. Overexpression of SLeX and SLea is combined with poor prognosis and malignant relapse. E-cadherin mediates tumor cell-tumor cell adhesion. Partial or complete loss of E-cadherin expression has also been found to correlate with poor prognosis in breast cancer patients. Another factor involved in metastasis is Cathepsin-D, a lysosomalprotease. Cathepsin-D plays a role in cell proliferation and inhibition of tumor cell adhesion. In this study, we analysed the combined expression of SLeX, SLea, Cathepsin-D and E-cadherin in breast carcinoma in situ, invasive carcinomas without metastasis and invasive carcinomas with lymph node metastasis. Slides of paraffin-embedded tissue of carcinoma in situ (8 D...

- by Udo Jeschke
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- Immunohistochemistry, cathepsin D, Anticancer, Neoplasm Invasiveness
- by Ana Mateos
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- Genetics, Microbiology, Parasitology, Zoology

Antineoplastic drugs, such as cisplatin (CDDP), induce disabling peripheral neuropathies, representing a hindrance to effective cancer treatments. The exact pathogenesis of CDDP-induced neuropathy is not yet understood, and the dysregulation of gene expression has been proposed. Valproate (VPA) is an antiepileptic drug recently discovered to remodel gene expression, with hypothetically putative neuroprotective effects. VPA was tested in both, in vitro and in vivo models of CDDP-neurotoxicity. VPA administered in combination with CDDP promoted dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurons survival. Moreover, this treatment induced in Wistar rats an improvement of body weight, sensory nerve conduction velocity, and DRG morphometric analysis. In contrast, VPA was not able to rescue CDDP pre-treated rats. When used in combination with CDDP, VPA displays a protective action against neuropathy, in our models, suggesting possible future clinical applications.

- by valentina carozzi
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- Anticancer, Cisplatin, Rats, Valproic Acid

Background/Aim: Genome-wide association studies revealed a link between gastric cancer (GC) and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of prostate stem cell antigen (PSCA), phospholipase C epsilon-1 (PLCE1) and mucin-1 (MUC1) genes. Herein, we aimed to evaluate associations between PSCA (C>T, rs2294008; G>A, rs2976392), MUC1 (C>T, rs4072037) and PLCE1 (A>G, rs2274223) SNPs and GC or high-risk gastritis (HRAG). Materials and Methods: Using TaqMan system, SNPs were genotyped in 252 patients with GC, 136 patients with HRAG and 246 controls. Results: PSCA rs2294008 allele T was linked with risk of GC (odds ratio (OR)=1.88, p<0.001) and HRAG (OR=1.49, p=0.009). Allele A of PSCA rs2976392 was associated with development of GC (OR=1.88, p<0.001) and HRAG (OR=1.56, p<0.01). MUC1 rs4072037 allele G was protective against development of GC (OR=0.64, p=0.0005), while no differences were found for PLCE1 rs2274223. Conclusion: Polymorphisms of PSCA (rs2976392, rs2294008) and MUC1 (rs4072037) genes are linked with GC and HRAG. Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most common causes of cancer-related death worldwide (1). Most recent reports on cancer reveal a declining incidence of GC in Western countries; nevertheless, the mortality associated with GC remains very high (1). The pathways of GC pathogenesis have merged into a complex picture, which involves Helicobacter pylori infection as well as genetic, epigenetic and other co-founding factors (2). A genome-wide association study (GWAS) approach has been applied in various diseases including cancer. The first GWAS on GC was published in 2008 and identified an association with a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) of prostate stem cell antigen (PSCA) gene (3). A few GWAS studies confirmed this association and revealed new susceptibility loci at mucin-1 (MUC1) and phospholipase C epsilon-1 (PLCE1) genes (3, 4). Gene SNPs detected in the aforementioned GWAS studies have been implicated in various cancer-related molecular pathways. PSCA gene encodes a cell membrane glycoprotein responsible for cellular activation (3). PSCA gene is expressed in the epithelium of the stomach and it is particularly down-regulated in gastric tissue with intestinal metaplasia (3). MUC1 gene encodes a cell membrane protein that plays a role in forming protective mucous barriers on stomach epithelial surfaces and is essential in intracellular signaling (5). Different studies have shown that MUC1 is involved in the regulation of H. pylori-induced chronic gastritis (5). PLCE1 gene encodes an enzyme that catalyzes hydrolysis which generates second messengers affecting the cell cycle (6). The PLCE1-related signaling network has an impact on several critical carcinogenetic processes, including proliferation, cell survival, metabolism, and tumor growth (6). The changes of encoding sequences of these genes have functional roles and may influence the process of carcinogenesis.

- by Ruta Dvarecke and +1
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- Mucin, Anticancer, Aged, Genotype

Based on a "field-effect" theory in colon carcinogenesis, and the expression of the disaccharide tumor marker D galactose-beta-[1-->3]-N-acetyl-D-galactosamine (Gal-GalNAc) in the rectal mucus of patients with cancer and precancer of the colon, Shamsuddin developed a simple, accurate, inexpensive, easy to perform and rapid (< or = 15 min) screening test for colonic cancer and precancerous lesions. In this study we examined 137 rectal mucus samples of randomly selected patients with colorectal malignancy or other colorectal diseases to confirm the sensitivity and specificity of this test in Croatia. Additionally, to test the validity of the "field-effect" theory, that the mucosa away from the obvious cancer will show abnormalities as a result of the generalized effect of the carcinogen throughout the entire field of the target tissue, we also monitored a subset of 53 patients post-operatively. Individuals free of colonic or any other malignancies served as c...

- by Abulkalam Shamsuddin
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- Pathology, Histochemistry, Anticancer, Mucus

It is quite evident that microbial (bacteria or fungi) crude extracts contain several important bioactive compounds and some have already shown their therapeutic activity. Unfortunately, most of the compounds have not properly been evaluated for the exploration of new lead molecule. Moreover, some of the mechanisms of actions of few bioactive compounds have not been identified so far. Hence, extensive research is required to find out the activity of compounds in the microbial crude extracts and to exploit their therapeutic potential to unlock silent secondary metabolites. Therefore, this review article raise the importance of activating microbial secondary metabolites noting the need for new tools to access the full microbial genome.

- by Vaccination Research – Open Journal
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- Lipopolysaccharide, Antibiotics, Anticancer

Various differentiation-inducing agents or harvesting of spontaneously late post-confluence cultures have been used to differentiate the human colon carcinoma Caco-2 cell line. We report a new procedure to generate pre-confluent subcultures of Caco-2 population at various stages of differentiation without altering culture conditions. Ultrastructural analysis, cell proliferation activity and biochemical markers of differentiation were evaluated at different passages. Subcultures of Caco-2 cells at pre-confluence, exhibiting progressive acquisition of a more benign differentiation phenotype, were generated. Early passages of Caco-2 cells showed a well-developed brush border and incomplete junctional apparatus; subsequent subcultures yielded cell populations with well-developed junctions similar to those of small intestinal cells. These culture conditions represent a new versatile model not only to progressively induce the differentiation program in Caco-2 cells at pre-confluence witho...

- by Anita Ferraretto
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- Cell Differentiation, Phenotype, Anticancer, Caco-2 cells

Materials and Methods: Recombinant high density hpoprotem (rHDL) particles were prepared with defined composition (phosphatidylcholine, . apolipoprotein A-1, cholesterol and cholesteryl esters) and a molecular weight of approximately 187,000 kdaltons. Three molecules of taxol per rHDL particle were incorporated into these rHDL complexes. Results: Cholesteryl ester and taxol (HDL core components,) were taken up efficiently by several cancer cell lines compared to transformed normal ovarian cells (HGL5) used as the control. Immunoblotting with the scavenger receptor (SR-BI) antibody revealed strong immunoreactivity of several cancer cell lines. Conclusion: Our studies indicated that rHDL complexes can be used as efficient drug delivery vehicles due to the ability of cancer cells to acquire HDL core components. Targeting of anticancer drugs as components of the rHDL complex could result in reduction of toxic side-effects during chemotherapy.

- by Andras Lacko
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- Dosage Form, In Vitro, Cholesterol, Paclitaxel

Background: The glutamatergic system (Glu system) comprises the Glu receptors (GluRs), the Glu transporters (GluTs) and glutamine synthetase (GS). Materials and Methods: Using PCR-based detection and Western blot analysis, the expression of Glu system components was assessed in human androgen-independent PC-3 and androgendependent LNCaP prostate cancer cells. Results: iGluRs, such as NR1, NR2A, NR2C, NR2D and NR3B; mGLuRs such as mGluR1, mGluR2, mGluR3, mGluR4 and mGluR5; GluTs such as EAAT1, EAAT2, EAAT3 and EAAT5; and GS mRNA were steadily expressed in both cell lines. In addition, NR3A, mGluR6, mGluR8 and EAAT4 mRNA were differentially expressed in PC-3 and LNCaP cells. mGluR7 and EAAT4 mRNA expression was induced and mGluR8 was silenced by dihydrotestosterone (DHT) treatment in LNCaP cells. GS, EAAT1 and mGLuR5 were also detected at the protein level in both PC-3 and LNCAP cells. Conclusion: These data suggest that the Glu system could be an important regulator of prostate cancer cell biology.

- by Michael Koutsilieris
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- Cancer, Glutamate receptors, Anticancer

To report long-term outcomes for HIV-positive patients who underwent radiation therapy (RT) for benign lymphoepithelial cysts (BLEC) of the parotid glands. In this single institution retrospective study of HIV-associated BLEC of the parotids, the medical records of 37 HIV-positive patients who were treated with RT between 1987-2012 were reviewed. Patients were stratified into two groups; group A consisted of 15 patients (40.5%) who received a total dose of ≤18Gy, with a median dose 10 Gy (range 8-18Gy), and group B consisted of 22 patients (59.5%) who received a total dose of 24 Gy. In addition to dosing information, additional patient data were collected, including demographics, HAART compliance, follow-up, and re-treatment status. The median age at the time of treatment was 41 (range=7-70) years. With a median follow-up of 35 (range=12-75) months for the entire cohort, the complete response (CR) and partial response (PR) rates were 35% and 8%, respectively. All but one of 15 patie...

- by Dukagjin Blakaj
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- Adolescent, HIV, Child, Young Adult

Hepatocellular carcinoma diagnosis and treatment has witnessed many major changes and challenges in the past two decades. Increasing incidence of HCC has introduced new monitoring systems and increased the efficacy of screening tests, as well as prognosis of the disease, including the staging system, serological testing and diagnostic imaging. Moreover, surgical resection, liver transplantation and herbal therapy have improved treatment. The most encouraging specific serological marker for HCC is alpha fetoprotein (AFP), which, along with ultrasonography, has improved earlier detection of HCC. Most recently, circulating tumor cell measurement has emerged as a promising tool for the prognosis of HCC. Herbal drugs and herbal composite formula drugs are promising towards the prevention of invasion and proliferation of tumor cells. Chemotherapeutic agents, such as sorafenib, bevacizumab and erlotinib, which target growth factor receptors in signaling pathways, are also used as HCC treat...

- by Abdul Manan and +3
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- Hepatology, Hepatocellular Carcinoma, Anticancer, Prognosis

Aggressive surgery has been suggested for improving local tumor control in patients with retroperitoneal sarcoma (RS). This study aimed at investigating local disease-free and overall survival after complete surgery, in patients with RS. Retrospective data of patients submitted to complete surgery for RS were extracted from a prospectively-maintained database. Forty-three out of 78 patients (55%) presented with primary RS. Infiltrated organs were resected in 42 patients (54%). Patients presenting with recurrent (hazard ratio (HR)=5.57, p=0.002) and high-grade (HR 3.47, p=0.041) tumors were at higher risk of local recurrence. Microscopically-involved tumor resection margins (HR=3.47, p=0.04) and recurrent tumor at presentation (HR=2.49, p=0.008) were independent predictors of poor survival. Patients presenting with primary RS had longer local disease-free survival and overall survival than those with recurrent tumor after complete surgery. Complete surgery remains the standard-of-car...

- by Antonella Vecchiato
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- Treatment Outcome, Sarcoma, Anticancer, Retrospective Studies

In this study, we describe a green and simple procedure for the synthesis of steroidal 2Hpyrans 4-6 using chitosan as an eco-friendly heterogeneous catalyst. The synthesized compounds were characterized by IR, 1 H NMR, 13 C NMR, MS and analytical data. These compounds were tested in vitro against two cancer cell lines [HeLa (cervical) and Jurkat (leukemia)] and one normal cell line (PBMC). The compounds exhibited moderate to good activity against the two human cancer cell lines and were less toxic against the non-cancer cell line. In addition, the synthesized compounds were tested for their in vitro antioxidant activity by 1,1-diphenylpicrylhydrazyl method in which compounds 4 and 6 exhibited good antioxidant activity. This study provided a new molecular scaffold for the further development of anticancer as well as antioxidant agents.

- by Sharad Shelke
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- Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Green Chemistry, Chitosan

Cancer is a very risky life-threatening disease having most formidable afflictions in the world. Several anticancer agents are commercially accessible, however, the emergence of acquired drug resistance along with extreme adverse effects of these clinically used anticancer medications are major barriers to the effective chemotherapy. Thus, it is recommended to rationally design the newer drugs with few side effects. Fluoroquinolone derivatives are of pivotal interest for researchers due to their admirable pharmacological and pharmacokinetic profiles. They exhibit several favourable characteristics including, higher bioavailability, excellent tissue penetration and relatively low prevalence of adverse and toxic effects. Due to their potential interventions in carcinogenesis and mutagenesis, the focus of the area of research is nowadays shifting towards anticancer aspects of these compounds. This review shows the recent advancements in the development of novel fluoroquinolones as potential anticancer and cytotoxic agents and structure-activity relationships along with the possible modes of action for further development and recent patents filed/granted related to anticancer activity from the last few years have also been tabulated. Also, this review is an attempt to focus on the various upcoming aspects of fluo-roquinolones and provides a newer outlook on the possible roles of fluoroquinolones in the treatment of cancer. Scientific information identified in this paper is expected to be useful for aspiring researchers working on the anticancer activity of fluoroquinolones.

- by Mr. Rajat Goyal and +1
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- Medicinal chemistry and pharmaceutical chemistry, Anticancer, Antiinfective Agent, Fluoroquinolones

AIM To evaluate prospectively disease- and treatment-related symptoms, anxiety and quality of life (QoL), in patients with different types of cancer undergoing external-beam radiotherapy (RT) and examine the relationship among them, at baseline and at the end of the treatment. PATIENTS AND METHODS This study included 90 patients with cancer. Patients' QoL was evaluated using the Linear Analog Scale Assessment (LASAs) questionnaire, anxiety was measured with the Spielberger state and trait inventory (STAI), while symptoms were assessed using the MD Anderson Symptom Inventory (MDASI). The assessments were carried-out at baseline and at the end of RT. RESULTS At baseline, the QoL scores were reduced (7.5±6.5) and MDASI elevated (2.35±1.7). Patients' QoL was correlated with symptoms (r=-0.684, p=0.0005). A correlation was found between STAI-trait with MDASI scores (r=0.214, p=0.046). At the second assessment, there were significant correlations between MDASI and QoL (r=-0.68, p=...

- by Efi Parpa
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- Quality of life, Medicine, Anxiety, Prospective studies

Depletion of intracellular potassium ions (K+) is necessary for cells to shrink, induce DNA fragmentation and activate caspases, events which are features of apoptosis. We used 86Rb+ as a K+ analogue to evaluate the possibility of pharmacologically depleting human pulmonary mesothelioma (P31) and small cell lung cancer (U1690) cells of K+, for future use in studies of apoptosis induction. The Na+, K+, 2CI(-)-cotransport inhibitor bumetanide transiently inhibited 86Rb+ influx, but when combined with the Na+, K+, ATPase pump inhibitor ouabain there was a marked and lasting (up to 6 h) 86Rb+ influx inhibition. Cellular K+ efflux was augmented by amphotericin B, digitonin and nigericin. Amphotericin B was an effective 86Rb+ efflux stimulator with low cytotoxicity, whereas digitonin caused cell detachment and nigericin increased LDH release in the U1690 cell line, indicating considerable toxicity of the drugs. It is possible to efficiently reduce intracellular K+ by persistent K+ influx ...

- by Parviz Behnam-motlagh and +1
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- Drug interactions, Mesothelioma, Potassium, Non small cell carcinoma

We developed a new method of brachytherapy, termed diffusing alpha-emitters radiation therapy (DaRT), based on the use of intratumoral (224)Ra-loaded wires, which release short-lived alpha-emitting atoms by recoil. Here, we examined their ability to destroy and control the development of several human-derived tumors implanted in athymic mice. The experiments were performed on athymic mice bearing malignant human-derived tumors including prostate (PC-3), glioblastoma (GBM, U87-MG), colon (HCT15), squamous cell carcinoma (FaDu) and melanoma (C32). One or more (224)Ra-loaded wires were inserted into the tumors, and mice were assessed for tumor growth rate and survival. In vivo studies showed that DaRT can effectively destroy the tumors, and in vitro tests confirmed the sensitivity of the studied cells to alpha particles. While the C32 cells were relatively resistant, other tumor types (e.g. HCT15) exhibited sensitivity in both measured aspects. DaRT could potentially be combined with c...

- by Margalit Efrati
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- Brachytherapy, Mice, Glioblastoma, Melanoma

We investigated the clinicopathological features in patients with recurrent RCC within 5 years or more than 5 years after nephrectomy and determined predictors of survival and response treatment after recurrence. We retrospectively evaluated 144 patients with disease recurrence; 73 had recurrence more than 5 years after radical nephrectomy. We compared clinicopathological characteristics in patients with disease recurrence before vs. after 5 years. In addition, we investigated predictors of survival and response to treatment after recurrence. Seventy-one patients (49%) were diagnosed with recurrence within 5 years after radical nephrectomy (early recurrence) and 73 patients (51%) were diagnosed with recurrence more than 5 years after radical nephrectomy (late recurrence). Fuhrman grade, tumor necrosis and lymphovascular invasion were statistically significantly different between the two groups (p<0.001, p=0.013, p=0.026, respectively). The late recurrence patients were significan...

- by Veli Berk
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- Anticancer

A 46-year-old woman with history of radioiodine-refractory follicular thyroid carcinoma (FTC) presented with locally recurrent, high-risk, invasive disease. She was treated with paclitaxel/carboplatin concomitant chemoradiotherapy (CRT), which was well tolerated, resulting in complete remission and freedom from residual or recurrent FTC for longer than 5 years until her last follow-up at age 52. This case highlights the possibility of combining taxane-based chemotherapy with definitive radiotherapy (as CRT) for the management of locally aggressive recurrences in poorly differentiated thyroid carcinoma, thereby resulting in rapid and persistent disease eradication. Even in the light of recent data on the potential benefit of novel targeted therapy agents in poorly differentiated thyroid carcinoma, this approach in similar clinical settings deserves future investigation.

- by Nicholas Sarlis
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- Cancer, Treatment, Paclitaxel, Anticancer
- by Thomas Dunlop
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- Cancer, Vitamin D, Signal Transduction, Nuclear Receptor

Rosmarinic acid is an ester of caffeic acid and 3,4-dihydroxyphenyl lactic acid commonly found in plants belonging to the Boraginaceae and the subfamily Nepetoideae of the Lamiaceae family. The compound has a number of important biological activities, e.g. antiviral, antibacterial, antiinflammatory, anticancer and antioxidant. This review shall focus on the reported anticancer activities of rosmarinic acid and discuss its therapeutic potential against a variety of cancers including colon and skin cancer.

- by Shahadat Hossan
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- Skin Cancer, Anticancer, Colon cancer, Rosmarinic Acid
- by Tatsuya TAKAGI
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- Multivariate Analysis, Dexamethasone, Paclitaxel, Risk factors

Morphological, physiological and molecular changes were investigated in in vitro salt-stressed barley (Hordeum vulgare L. cv. Tokak). Mature embryos were cultured in Murashige and Skoog medium containing 0 (control), 50 and 100 mM NaCl for 20 days. Both concentrations inhibited shoot growth, decreased fresh weight and protein content, and increased SOD (EC 1.15.1.1) activity in a dose-dependent manner. The lower concentration increased root growth. Salinity caused nucleotide variations in roots, but did not affect shoot DNAs. The higher concentration caused methylation changes, mainly hypermethylation in shoots. This is the first study on genetic and epigenetic effects of salinity in barley.

- by Ángel-Luis García-Otín
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- Genetics, Demography, Molecular Biology, Polymorphism

Pancreatic cancer constitutes an entity which is difficult to treat and, therefore, mostly fatal. Since heavy water (deuterium oxide, D2O) was shown to be active in various cancer cell lines in vitro and in vivo, we now investigated its effects in human pancreatic tumor cells. The cytotoxic effects of D2O were examined in three pancreatic cancer cell lines (AsPC-1, BxPC-3 and PANC-1). Induction of apoptosis was determined by Hoechst/propidium iodide double staining and cell cycle distribution was investigated by FACS analysis. Employing a clonogenic assay, D2O yielded IC50 values of 15%, 18% and 27% in AsPC-1, PANC-1 and BxPC-3 cells, respectively, and led to the induction of apoptosis when compared to untreated controls. Moreover, D2O caused a cell cycle arrest in the G2-M-phase (BxPC-3, PANC-1) or in the S-phase (AsPC-1). It is hoped that D2O might offer an additional option for the treatment of pancreatic carcinomas.

- by Rudolf-GIESBERT ALKEN and +2
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- Cell Cycle, Apoptosis, Anticancer, Antineoplastic Agents

Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is a calcitonin-producing tumor of the thyroid arising from the parafollicular C-cells. MTC is poorly responsive to chemotherapy and radiotherapy, hence the only effective therapy is surgery. Based on this fact, alternative strategies have been sought. The effects of Cautleya gracilis (Smith) Dandy were investigated for the first time in three human MTC cell lines and in MTC-transplanted mice. Proliferation and viability were quantified by cell counting, WST-1 tests, and ATP luminescent cell viability assays. Apoptosis was studied by DAPI staining, flow cytometry and luminescent assays for caspases 3/7, 8 and 9. A dose-dependent reduction of proliferation and an induction of apoptosis were found in all MTC cell lines, while normal fibroblasts were not impaired. Similar tumor inhibition was seen in heterotransplanted mice. Our in vitro and in vivo findings suggest a new potential clinical effect of Cautleya.

- by Bernhard Svejda
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- Cancer, Apoptosis, Caspases, Mice
- by Amol Bhairuba Ikhe
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- Anticancer

Garlic (Allium sativum) is a source of medicine in many ways in human beings in routine life as well as in animals and its leaves, flowers, and cloves have been used in traditional medicine for a long time. Research in recent decades has shown widespread pharmacological and therapeutic effects of A. sativum and its organosulfur compounds especially allicin. The most important chemical constituents of this plant are organosulfur compounds such as allicin, diallyl disulphide, S-allylcysteine, and diallyl trisulfide. These chemicals were used for the treatment of inflammation, cancer, blood pressure, atherosclerosis, and hyperlipidemia as praised by several authors. Additionally, extracts of garlic have been used to treat various diseases and have shown anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anticoagulative and antioxidant effects. However, few adverse effects have been found with garlic are nausea and vomiting when high quantity consumed. To review the therapeutic values of garlic and its importance in human and veterinary practices. Garlic is safe and rich sources of biologically active compounds with low toxicity. Further studies are needed to confirm the safety and quality of the plants to be used by clinicians as therapeutic agents.

- by Advances in Food Technology and Nutrition Sciences – Open Journal (AFTNSOJ) and +1
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- Antioxidant, Antifungal, Anticancer, Antiviral

Wheat (Triticum aestivum), belonging to poaceae family is a vital constituent of the human diet. At the germinated stage, the leaves of wheat over 6-10 days are commonly called wheatgrass, it contain very good quantity of chlorophyll, which shows the structural similarity to haemoglobin molecule hence, known to play a significant role in blood deficiency diseases such as Thalassemia and myelotoxicity in cancer patients during chemotherapy. Moreover, wheatgrass has been reported as the richest source of vitamins, enzymes, minerals, aminoacids, trace elements, phytochemical components and a glycoprotein P4D1 etc. which can stimulate the repair of DNA and RNA in case of their damage. All of them collectively provide a good therapeutic potential against a broad range of ailments including chronic diseases. The recent researchers reporting its antioxidant, anti-arthritic, antihyperlipidemic or cardio-protective, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activities have made this plant more valuable in herbal research. In the present review attempt is made to focus on the therapeutic potential of wheatgrass against the various chronic diseases.

- by Dr. Lavkush Dwivedi
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- Pharmacology, Biochemistry, Pharmacy, Toxicology

Imidazole is a five membered, heterocyclic ring containing two hetero (nitrogen) atoms and two double bonds. Many imidazoles molecules are synthesized either through fusion or substituting various functional groups in the lead moiety. Several methods of synthesis were reported till date. Imidazole has already been reported to possess many biological activities like anticancer, analgesic, anti-inflamatory, antiviral, antihelmintic, anticonvulsant, aniallergic, antiulcer etc. the article here focus on various synthetic procedures and biological properties chemistry and major reactions of various imidazole derivatives in a comprehensive manner.

- by Niraj Sharma
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- Organic Chemistry, Anticonvulsant, Anticancer, Imidazole

Clitoria ternatea or commonly known as 'But-terfly pea' has been used traditionally in Ayurvedic medicine in which various parts of the plants are used to treat health issues such as indigestion, constipation, arthritis, skin diseases, liver and intestinal problems. The flowers of C. ternatea are used worldwide as ornamental flowers and traditionally used as a food colorant. This paper reviews the recent advances in the extraction and biological activities of phytochemicals from C. ternatea flowers. The application of maceration or ultrasound assisted extraction greatly increased the yield (16-247% of increase) of phy-tochemicals from C. ternatea flowers. Various phyto-chemicals such as kaempferol, quercetin and myricetin glycosides as well as anthocyanins have been isolated from C. ternatea flowers. Clitoria ternatea flower extracts were found to possess antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflam-matory, cytotoxic and antidiabetic activities which are beneficial to human health. Clitoria ternatea flower is a promising candidate for functional food applications owing to its wide range of pharmacotherapeutic properties as well as its safety and effectiveness.

Despite the adverse effects of microbial hazards on public health, major pharmaceutical firms have left the field of anti-infective development and a dramatic reduction in the number of researcher's intricated in the quest for new specific anti-infective leads. In the non-existence of an efficient forum for antibiotics development and over usage in human beings and animals, bacteria have demoralized this potential by gradually establishing the resistance toward most of the antibiotics used. Thus, the production of novel and successful anti-infective drugs is urgently required to combat this resistance. Hydrazones and hy-drazides have mounted as a key-skeleton for the development of active drugs, due to their important biological and pharmacological profiles. Hydrazones are being manufactured as medicines by various investigators to fight against the ailments with maximal effects and minimal toxicity. This paper focuses on the outline of the literature results of recent years, incorporating the work on the anti-infective profile of hydrazone analogues. This review may also act as an excellent basis for the development of new derivatives of hydrazone as potential anti-infective mediators.

- by Mr. Rajat Goyal and +2
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- Anticancer, Hydrazones, Antiinfective Agent, Fluoroquinolones

Emblica officinalis (Amla, EO, and E. officinalis) is one of the most important herbs in the Indian traditional medicine system, especially Ayurveda and also known as the king of all medicinal plants. EO is famous ayurvedic herb (the name means sour in Sanskrit) is likely one of the most useful drug treatments within the Indian pharmacopoeia, and is considered to be one of the most strongest uvenatives (Rasayana), particularly for the blood, bones, liver, and heart. It is an exceptionally rich source of vitamin C containing 30 times the amount found in oranges. It is one of the oldest oriental medicines mentioned in Ayurveda as potential remedy for various ailments. EO (Amla) is widely used in the ayurvedic medicines and believed to increase defense or immune power against diseases. Several parts of the plant are used to treat a variety of diseases, but the most important is the " fruit. " The fruit is rich in quercetin, phyllemblic compounds, gallic acid, tannins, flavonoids, pectin, and vitamin C and also contains various polyphenolic compounds. A wide range of phytochemical components including terpenoids, alkaloids, flavonoids, carbohydrates, and tannins have been shown to possess useful biological activities. Many pharmacological studies have demonstrated the ability of EO as antioxidant, anticarcinogenic, antitumor, antigenotoxic, anti-inflammatory activities, anticancer, anti HIV-reverse transcriptase, antidiabetic, inhibitory effects, antidepressant, antiulcerogenic, hair growth tonic, wound healing activities, cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, cancer, and many other traditional uses of the plant. The present study also includes macroscopy, microscopy, preliminary phytoconstituent, and physico-chemical evaluation.

- by Dr. Pushpendra Kumar Jain
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- Pharmacy, Electron Microscopy, Microscopy, Traditional Medicine

Silver has no biological role, and it is particularly toxic to lower organisms. Although several silver formulations employed in medicine in the past century are prescribed and sold to treat certain medical conditions, most of the compounds, including those showing outstanding properties as antimicrobial or anticancer agents, are still in early stages of assessment, that is, in vitro studies, and may not make it to clinical trials. Unlike other heavy metals, there is no evidence that silver is a cumulative poison, but its levels can build up in the body tissues after prolonged exposure leading to undesired effects. In this review, we deal with the journey of silver in medicine going from the alternative or do-it-yourself drug to scientific evidence related to its uses. The many controversies push scientists to move toward a more comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms involved.

- by Massimiliano Peana and +1
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- Silver, Antibiotics, Anticancer, Silver Nanoparticle

Cancer is a serious concern at present. A large number of patients die each year due to cancer illnesses in spite of several interventions available. Development of an effective and side effects lacking anticancer therapy is the trending research direction in healthcare pharmacy. Chemical entities present in plants proved to be very potential in this regard. Bioactive phytochemicals are preferential as they pretend differentially on cancer cells only, without altering normal cells. Carcinogenesis is a complex process and includes multiple signaling events. Phytochemicals are pleiotropic in their function and target these events in multiple manners; hence they are most suitable candidate for anticancer drug development. Efforts are in progress to develop lead candidates from phytochemicals those can block or retard the growth of cancer without any side effect. Several phytochemicals manifest anticancer function in vitro and in vivo. This article deals with these lead phytomolecules with their action mechanisms on nuclear and cellular factors involved in carcinogenesis. Additionally, druggability parameters and clinical development of anticancer phytomolecules have also been discussed.

- by bhupender sharma
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- Anticancer

In the recent period there is renewed concern about dietary supplement of omega fatty acids for its beneficial effects on human health. Omega-3 (ω-3) and Omega-6 (ω-6) fatty acids are polyunsaturated fatty acids and both of them metabolically yield very long chain fatty acids which supports numerous physiological and development processes in the body. These are essential and must be obtained through the diet as they are not synthesized de novo in the human beings, The major dietary sources are plant seeds, nuts, fish oils and other sea foods, Many studies have revealed that omega fatty acids are potent molecules possessing anticancer, hypolipidemic, anti-inflammatory and anti diabetic activities and can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Even though omega 6 fatty acid encompasses health benefits if not balanced with dietary supplement of omega 3 may cause detrimental effects Therefore the present article gives an account of chemistry, structure, and biological properties of ω -fatty acids and examines the importance of the ω-6/ω-3 balance in maintaining good health and its pivotal role in prevention of degenerative diseases and other inflammatory disorders.

- by Ramzi Abdulrasheed Gazem and +1
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- Pharmacology, Pharmacy, Food Science, Nutrition

Chalcones are naturally occurring compounds exhibiting broad spectrum biological activities including anticancer activity through multiple mechanisms. Literature on anticancer chalcones highlights the employment of three pronged strategies, namely; structural manipulation of both aryl rings, replacement of aryl rings with heteroaryl scaffolds, molecular hybridization through conjugation with other pharmacologically interesting scaffolds for enhancement of anticancer properties. Methoxy substitutions on both the aryl rings (A and B) of the chalcones, depending upon their positions in the aryl rings appear to influence anticancer and other activities. Similarly, heterocyclic rings either as ring A or B in chalcones, also influence the anticancer activity shown by this class of compounds. Hybrid chalcones formulated by chemically linking chalcones to other prominent anticancer scaffolds such as pyrrol[2,1-c][1,4]benzodiazepines, benzothiazoles, imidazolones have demonstrated synergistic or additive pharmacological activities. The successful application of these three pronged strategies for discovering novel anticancer agents based on chalcone scaffold has resulted in many novel and chemically diverse chalcones with potential therapeutic application for many types of cancer. This review summarizes the concerted efforts expended on the design and development of anticancer chalcones recorded in recent literature and also provides an overview of the patents published in this area between 2007 and 2014 (WO2013022951, WO201201745 & US2012029489).

- by Bentham Science Publishers
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- Patents, Antioxidants, Chalcones, Anticancer

Brain metastases (BM) are the most common intracranial tumors and their incidence is increasing. Untreated brain metastases are associated with a poor prognosis and a poor performance status. Metastasis development involves the migration of a cancer cell from the bulk tumor into the surrounding tissue, extravasation from the blood into tissue elsewhere in the body, and formation of a secondary tumor. In the recent past, important results have been obtained in the management of patients affected by BM, using surgery, radiation therapy, or both. Conventional chemotherapies have generally produced disappointing results, possibly due to their limited ability to penetrate the blood-brain barrier. The advent of new technologies has led to the discovery of novel molecules and pathways that have better depicted the metastatic process. Targeted therapies such as bevacizumab, erlotinib, gefitinib, sunitinib and sorafenib, are all licensed and have demonstrated improved survival in patients with metastatic disease. In this review, we will report current data on targeted therapies. A brief review about brain metastatic process will be also presented.

- by Giuseppe Fata and +1
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- Genetics, Anticancer, Molecular sciences, Brain Neoplasms
- by Yuval Shahar
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- Psychology, Cognitive Science, Philosophy, Decision Making

Adenium obesum (Forssk.) Roem. and Schult. is a succulent shrub commonly known as desert rose belongs to the family Apocynaceae. Adenium obesum is a native of Africa but nowadays is cultivated in several parts of the world including India as a popular ornamental plant. This plant represents one of the richest sources of phytochemicals such as glycosides and posses great potential for pharmaceutical and piscicultural applications. This review is therefore, an effort to give a detailed study of the literature on biological activities of Adenium obesum. It shows remarkable anticancer, antiviral, antibacterial, trypanocidal, acaricidal, molluscicidal, antioxidant and piscicidal activities. This review concludes that Adenium obesum has a great potential to treat various diseases, and could be used as a source for novel healthcare products in the near future, which requires further experimentation.

The continuously increasing incidence rates of cancer and infectious diseases are open threats to the sustainable survival of animals and humans. In the last two decades, the demands of nanomaterials as modern therapeutic agents have increased. In this study, biogenic zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) were developed from aqueous Pandanus odorifer leaf extract (POLE) and characterized using modern methods and tools, such as electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and UV-vis spectroscopy, which indicated the formation of very pure, spherical NPs approximately 90 nm in size. The anticancer activity of the ZnO NPs was evaluated by MTT and neutral red uptake (NRU) assays in MCF-7, HepG2 and A-549 cells at different doses (1, 2, 5, 10, 25, 50, 100 mg ml À1). Moreover, the morphology of the treated cancer cells was examined by phase contrast microscopy. The results suggest that the synthesized ZnO NPs inhibited the growth of the cells when applied a concentration from 50-100 mg ml À1. Moreover, the biogenic ZnO NPs were analysed as an antimicrobial agent against pathogenic bacteria. The highest antibacterial activity was observed against Gram-positive Bacillus subtilis (26 nm) and Gram-negative Escherichia coli (24 mm) at 50 mg per well. Complete bacterial growth (100%) vanished 100% upon treatment with ZnO NPs at 85 mg ml À1. Overall, POLE mediated derived biogenic ZnO NPs could serve as a significant anticancer and antimicrobial agent and be used in the development of novel drugs and skin care products.

- by Oves M.
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- Antibacterial agents, Anticancer

- by Abo Ahmed Alaghbari
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- Omega Fatty Acids, Anticancer, Anti-inflammatory, Hypolipidemic Activity
- by Cristina Conati
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- Psychology, Cognitive Science, Philosophy, Decision Making

The humans worldwide are facing obesity as a major clinical threat because it is linked with cardiovascular diseases which often have serious consequences. Treatments available for body weight loss do not produce permanent weight loss and they often bear some side effects. To achieve safer anti-obesetic therapeutics, researchers are moving towards plant-based therapeutic formulations. Many phytomolecules have been identified as anti-lipolytic functions but none of them have reached up to the clinical level. So there is an essential need to develop effective anti-obesetic medications which not only produce sufficient weight loss but also lack side effects. Plants may prove promising option for the same. In this article, medications and surgical procedures have been reviewed and dealt for weight loss and the role of phytomolecules in anti-obesetic therapeutics has been explored.

- by bhupender sharma
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- Anticancer

In this short review, the current knowledge on the chemical constituents and anticancer properties of Cerbera odollam and Cerbera manghas is updated with some description of their botany and uses. Although these two closely-related coastal tree species have overlapping geographical distribution, they can be distinguished by the eye colour of flowers and the shape of fruits. Chemical constituents of C. odollam and C. manghas include lignans, iridoids, terpenoids, cardiac glycosides (cardenolides), flavonoids, phenolic acids and steroids. Cardiac glycosides of cerberin, dehydrocerberin, neriifolin, tanghinin, deacetyltanghinin and tanghinigenin possess promising anticancer properties with apoptotic activities. However, these cardiac glycosides are also cardiotoxic. Fatal cases of suicides by ingesting Cerbera fruits or seeds have been reported in India and Sri Lanka. In two suicide cases, one in Taiwan and another in the United States, the patients recovered completely. In New Caledonia, four death-threatening cases of poisoning (two were fatal) occurred through consuming toxic coconut crabs. Taken together, both C. odollam and C. manghas are endowed with cardiac glycosides, which have useful pharmacological properties but lethal toxicity.

- by Eric W C Chan
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- Phytochemistry, Malaria, Cytotoxicity, Antimalarial

The search for biological markers to predict malignant disease and its recurrence, or to monitor the effectiveness of treatment is a continuous process in medicine. Several years ago, urinary excretion of cGMP in urine was found to be a sensitive predictor in the follow-up of ovarian cancer and of monitoring treatment of cancer of the uterine cervix. In the present study, 27 patients with gynecological cancer, including cancer of the uterine cervix (n=13), cancer of the uterine corpus (n=8) and cancer of the ovaries (n=6), were monitored for 10 years. Blood and urinary samples were taken before primary treatment (baseline sample) and three months thereafter (three-month sample). The serum levels of CEA, CA-125 and PIIINP and urine excretion of cGMP and cAMP were determined. Creatinine levels in serum and urine were employed to determine renal clearance. After 10 years' observation of women with cancer of the uterine cervix, seven patients showed no relapse and cGMP levels in bas...

- by Anne Orbo and +1
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- Treatment Outcome, cyclic AMP, Follow-up studies, Anticancer

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is an elaborate organelle that is essential for cellular function and survival. Conditions that interfere with ER functioning can lead to the accumulation of unfolded proteins, which are detected by transmembrane sensors that then initiate the unfolded protein response (UPR) to restore ER proteostasis. If the adaptive response fails, apoptotic cell death ensues. Many studies have focused on how this failure initiates apoptosis, particularly because ER stress-induced apoptosis is implicated in the pathophysiology of several diseases, including cancer. Whether the UPR inhibits tumour growth or protects tumour cells by facilitating their adaptation to stressful conditions within the tumour microenvironment is unknown, and dissection of the UPR network will likely provide answers to this question. In this review, we aim to elucidate the paradoxical role of the UPR in apoptosis and cancer.

- by Annelies Paridaens and +1
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- Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress, Apoptosis, Unfolded Protein Response, Anticancer

Historically, natural products played a forceful role in human treatment ailments. Nowadays, natural products include a large part of current pharmaceutical agents, mostly in the field of cancer therapy. The main aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive summary of the most known natural product used as anticancer globally, including various other natural products. Many of these natural product appears to act through an anticancer mechanism. Overall, natural product research is a vigorous tool to discover novel biologically active components with unique mechanisms of action. Given the diversity of nature, it is sensible to indicate that chemical leads can be produced that are able to interact with most therapeutic targets. This review creates a solid foundation for further study these natural products with additional research and study.

To examine fatigue among testicular cancer patients during the first year after diagnosis. Fifteen patients treated with orchidectomy (group 1) and 37 treated with orchidectomy plus chemotherapy (group 2) were assessed within 1 month after orchidectomy, and 3 and 12 months later. Fatigue, sociodemographics, anemia, testosterone levels and trait anxiety were assessed. At TI and T3, the groups reported similar levels of fatigue. Increased fatigue was found in group 2 at T2. A continuing decrease in fatigue was found in group 1. At T3, patients reported similar levels of fatigue as healthy individuals. Older age, trait anxiety and earlier levels of fatigue were predictive of fatigue, while anemia and testosterone levels were not. Fatigue seems not to be an enduring problem for testicular cancer patients, with treatment only having an impact on fatigue levels shortly after treatment. Highly anxious patients and those who were fatigued after orchidectomy might benefit from a multidiscipl...

- by Joke Fleer
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- Adolescent, Fatigue, Anxiety, Testosterone
- by Pouya Hassandarvish
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- Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Analytical Chemistry, MRSA