Tag: Cancer

Current article: The Role of RNA m6A Modification in Cancer Glycolytic Reprogramming

Author(s): Yuanqi Li, Hao Huang, Shaoxian Wu, You Zhou*, Tao Huang* and Jingting Jiang*

As one of the main characteristics of neoplasia, metabolic reprogramming provides nutrition and energy to enhance cell proliferation and maintain environment homeostasis. Glycolysis is one of the most important components of cancer metabolism and the Warburg effect contributes to the competitive advantages of cancer cells in the threatened microenvironment. Studies show strong links between N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification and metabolic recombination of cancer cells. As the most abundant modification in eukaryotic RNA, m6A methylation plays important roles in regulating RNA processing, including splicing, stability, transportation, translation and degradation. The aberration of m6A modification can be observed in a variety of diseases such as diabetes, neurological diseases and cancers. This review describes the mechanisms of m6A on cancer glycolysis and their applications in cancer therapy and prognosis evaluation, aiming to emphasize the importance of targeting m6A in modulating cancer metabolism.

Learn more: https://bit.ly/3WdzeFp

The TP53 Gene and COVID-19 Virus: A Correlation Analysis

Author(s):C. Lakshmi Anand* and P.K. Krishnan Namboori

Aim: This study aimed to discover the most effective anti-cancer medicine for cancer patients infected with SARS-CoV-2.

Background: The correlation between TP53 and SARS-CoV-2 was examined using biomolecular networking analysis.

Objective: Cancer patients with TP53 gene mutations are more likely to be infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus since it is the most frequently mutated tumor suppressor gene in human cancer. The main goal of this study is to discover the most effective and efficient anti-cancer therapy for patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Materials and Methods: Topp gene analysis was used to prioritize candidate genes based on molecular function, biological process, and pathway analysis. Biomolecular networking was carried out using Cytoscape 2.8.2. The protein-protein interaction network was used to identify the functionally associated proteins. The protein-drug interaction network was used to observe the molecular therapeutic efficiency of drugs. The network was further analyzed using CytoHubba to find the hub nodes. The molecular docking was used to study the proteinligand interaction, and the protein-ligand complex was further evaluated through molecular dynamic simulation to determine its stability.

Results: Functionally relevant genes were prioritized through Toppgene analysis. Using Cytohabba, it was found that the genes UBE2N, BRCA1, BARD1, TP53, and DPP4 had a high degree and centrality score. The drugs 5-fluorouracil, Methotrexate, Temozolomide, Favipiravir, and Levofloxacin have a substantial association with the hub protein, according to protein-drug interaction analysis. Finally, a docking study revealed that 5-fluorouracil has the highest connection value and stability compared to Methotrexate, Favipiravir, and Levofloxacin.

Conclusion: The biomolecular networking study was used to discover the link between TP53 and SARS-CoV-2, and it was found that 5-fluorouracil had a higher affinity for binding to TP53 and its related genes, such as UBE2N, BRCA1, RARD1, and SARS-CoV-2 specific DPP4. For cancer patients with TP53 gene mutations and Covid-19 infection, this treatment is determined to be the most effective.

Read more: https://bit.ly/3sZlhxP

Aims & Scope – Current Signal Transduction Therapy

ISSN (Print): 1574-3624
ISSN (Online): 2212-389X

Latest Issue: Volume 17 , Issue 1 , 2022

Aims & Scope

In recent years a breakthrough has occurred in our understanding of the molecular pathomechanisms of human diseases whereby most of our diseases are related to intra and intercellular communication disorders. The concept of signal transduction therapy has got into the front line of modern drug research, and a multidisciplinary approach is being used to identify and treat signaling disorders.

The journal publishes timely in-depth reviews, research article and drug clinical trial studies in the field of signal transduction therapy. Thematic issues are also published to cover selected areas of signal transduction therapy. Coverage of the field includes genomics, proteomics, medicinal chemistry and the relevant diseases involved in signaling e.g. cancer, neurodegenerative and inflammatory diseases. Current Signal Transduction Therapy is an essential journal for all involved in drug design and discovery. Read now: https://bit.ly/3DuwZHe

Most Cited Article – A Review of Himalayan Medicinal Plants against Cancer

Author(s):Bhuwan C. Joshi*, Piyush Verma, Vijay Juyal and Archana N. Sah

Volume 8, Issue 1, 2022

Published on: 12 January, 2022

Article ID: e241121198254

Pages: 17

DOI: 10.2174/2215083807666211124100506

Abstract

Background: Plants contributed numerous novel compounds for prophylactic and curative medicine to modern science. They are an important source of natural agents used in various pharmaceutical industries. Himalayan plants are abundant in various secondary metabolites, such as anthraquinones, flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, and terpenes. The Himalayan plants are grown in high altitudes and have around 6500 years old history as traditional medicines.

Aim: This review article systematically presents information on Himalayan medicinal plants having anti-cancer potentials.

Methodology: Around 160 articles were reviewed using online search engines, like PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, Web of Science, and floras of different Himalayan countries.

Results: An attempt has been made to review anti-cancer plants and active constituents isolated from several anti-cancerous plants of Himalayan regions. Eighty-three anti-cancer plants are reported in this review, and a total of twenty-two active chemical constituents, including phenolic compounds, glycosides, terpenoids, and alkaloids from the plants, were reported active against various cancer cell lines.

Conclusion: Several synthetic agents are used to cure cancer, but many undesired side effects occur during chemotherapy. Hence, the research is going on to investigate natural therapies, such as the use of plant-derived products in cancer treatment. They may reduce adverse side effects. Read now: https://bit.ly/3dkF5Hx

Most Cited Article – Oncotherapeutic Application of Resveratrol-based Inorganic Nanoparticles

Author(s):Angela Perris, Sanchari Bhattacharya, Junaid Jibran Jawed and Muddasarul Hoda*

Volume 9, Issue 4, 2021

Published on: 06 September, 2021

Page: [271 – 280]

Pages: 10

DOI: 10.2174/2211738509666210906164727

Abstract

Background: Potential therapeutic benefits of natural phytoconstituents and the emergence of nano-structured drug delivery systems have expanded the scope of enhanced chemotherapy with minimal adverse effects. Various in vivo and in vitro studies have revealed Resveratrol to be a potent anti-carcinogenic agent. Researchers are currently applying the concept of nano-science for enhancing the delivery of phyto-drugs like resveratrol, in order to carry the drug to the affected tissues and organs of cancer patients with much ease and efficiency.

Methods: The current review emphasizes the use of inorganic nanoparticles for enhancing the delivery and efficacy of resveratrol into otherwise inaccessible tumorigenic tissues.

Conclusion: The present review work summarizes a comprehensive update on the mechanism of actions of the resveratrol-based inorganic nanocomposite particles that are currently being studied against various cancer models. This work may be significant in laying the foundation for the future of metallic nanoparticles-based delivery and efficacy of phytochemicals in general and resveratrol in specific against non-invasive metastatic cancer. Read now: https://bit.ly/3QwJtS4

Open Access Article – Systematic Patent Review of Nanoparticles in Drug Delivery and Cancer Therapy in the Last Decade

Author(s):Nur Umairah Ali Hazis, Nagender Aneja, Rajan Rajabalaya and Sheba Rani David*

Volume 15, Issue 1, 2021

Published on: 24 September, 2021

Page: [59 – 74]

Pages: 16

DOI: 10.2174/1872211314666210521105534

Abstract

Background: The application of nanotechnology has been considered a powerful platform in improving the current situation in drug delivery and cancer therapy, especially in targeting the desired site of action.

Objective: The main objective of the patent review is to survey and review patents from the past ten years that are related to the two particular areas of nanomedicines.

Methods: The patents related to the nanoparticle-based inventions utilized in drug delivery and cancer treatment from 2010 onwards were browsed in databases like USPTO, WIPO, Google Patents, and Free Patents Online. After conducting numerous screening processes, a total of 40 patents were included in the patent analysis. See the PRISMA checklist 2020 checklist.

Results: Amongst the selected patents, an overview of various types of nanoparticles is presented in this paper, including polymeric, metallic, silica, lipid-based nanoparticles, quantum dots, carbon nanotubes, and albumin-based nanomedicines.

Conclusion: Nanomedicines’ advantages include improvements in terms of drug delivery, bioavailability, solubility, penetration, and stability of drugs. It is concluded that the utilization of nanoparticles in medicines is essential in the pursuit of better clinical practice. Read now: https://bit.ly/3zDFTjd

The development of new drugs to fight cancer

Ricardo de Souza Pereira

What is it about?

Cancer is a class of diseases with an uncontrolled growth of cells (usually derived from a single cell) beyond the normal limits. The growths often invade adjacent tissues and, sometimes, migrate to other locations of the body (metastasis) via lymph or blood, and promote the growth of new blood vessels from which the cells derive nutrients. Cancerous (malignant) cells can develop from any tissue within the body. These malignant properties of cancers differentiate them from benign tumors, which are self-limited, and do not invade or metastasize [1, 2]. TYPES OF CANCER Cancerous tissues (malignancies) can be divided into those of the blood and blood-forming tissues and cells of the immune system (leukemias and lymphomas) and “solid” tumors, often termed cancer. Cancers can be carcinomas (tumor derived from epithelial tissue) or sarcomas (tumor arising from cells that form muscles and connective tissue) [2]. COSTS OF CANCER The National Institutes of Health in United States estimated overall costs of cancer in 2010 at $263.8 billion: $102.8 billion for direct medical costs (total of all health expenditures); $20.9 billion for indirect morbidity costs (cost of lost productivity due to illness); and $140.1 billion for indirect mortality costs (cost of lost productivity due to premature death) [3, 4]. STATISTICS One in eight deaths worldwide are due to cancer, it is the second and third leading cause of death in economically developed and developing countries, respectively. Cancer affects 1 in 3 of us in our lifetime. It also affects people at all ages with the risk for most types increasing with age. Over 70% of cancers happen to people who are over the age of 60 [5]. Lung cancer, the most common cause of cancer-related death in men and women, is responsible for 1.3 million deaths worldwide annually [1]

Why is it important?

The development of new drugs to fight cancer is essential, as it is a disease with a high rate of mortality and suffering for close relatives of the patient. Read more: https://bit.ly/3OBy2Hk

Most Cited Article – Molecular Docking and Dynamics Simulation of Natural Phenolic Compounds with GSK-3β: A Putative Target to Combat Mortality in Patients with COVID-19

Author(s):Zahra Khamverdi , Zeinab Mohamadi and Amir Taherkhani *

Volume 15, Issue 1, 2021

Published on: 15 December, 2021

Page: [16 – 34]Pages: 19

DOI: 10.2174/1872213X14666210916161447

Abstract

Objective: In this study, molecular docking analysis was performed to evaluate the binding affinity of 52 plant-based phenolics with the GSK-3β active sites. Moreover, Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulation was conducted to investigate the stability of interactions between the topranked phenolics and residues within the GSK-3β active sites.

Methods: Molecular docking and MD simulations were performed using AutoDock and Discovery Studio Client software, respectively. Thereafter, pharmacokinetic and toxicological properties of top inhibitors were predicted using bioinformatics web tools. This study aimed to identify the most effective amino acids involved in the inhibition of GSK-3β based on the most stabilizing interactions between the residues and compounds, and also by considering the degree centrality in the ligand- amino acid interaction network for GSK-3β.

Results: It was observed that procyanidin and amentoflavone could bind to the GSK-3β active sites at the picomolar (pM) scale as well as the binding affinity of ΔG binding < -13 kcal/mol, while the inhibition constant for theaflavin 3’-gallate, procyanidin B4, and rutin was calculated at the nanomolar (nM) scale, suggesting that these phenolic compounds can be considered as potential effective GSK-3β inhibitors. Furthermore, Val70, Ala83, Val135, and Tyr134 were found to be the most important amino acids involved in the inhibition of GSK-3β.

Conclusion: The results of the current study may be useful in the prevention of several human disorders, including COVID-19, cancers, Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes mellitus, and cardiovascular diseases. However, wet-lab experiments need to be performed in the future. Read now: https://bit.ly/3RXNW1A

Open Access Article – SANTAVAC ™: A Novel Universal Antigen Composition for Developing Cancer Vaccines

Author(s):Petr G. Lokhov* and Elena E. Balashova

Volume 11, Issue 1, 2017

Page: [32 – 41]Pages: 10

DOI: 10.2174/1872208309666161130140535

Abstract

Background: Development of a universal cancer vaccine for the prevention of all cancers has been under development for many years. Antiangiogenic cancer vaccines elicit immune responses with the potential of destroying tumor vasculature endothelial cells without affecting vasculature integrity in normal tissues. The methods used in the development of antigen compositions comprising these vaccines have been recently improved and described in this report in the context of SANTAVAC ™ development – the first cancer vaccine based on endothelial cell heterogeneity.

Methods: The present report summarizes data related to SANTAVAC™ development, including technical key points associated with optimal SANTAVAC™ production, a description of the composition required for preparing cancer vaccines with the highest predicted efficacy and safety, and a strategy for SANTAVAC™ large-scale implementation. Patents related to SANTAVAC™ and other universal cancer vaccines are also described.

Results: SANTAVAC ™ was shown to be the most promising antigen composition for anti-cancer vaccination, allowing for immune targeting of the tumor vasculature in experimental models with a high predicted efficacy (up to 60), where efficacy represents the fold decrease in the number of endothelial cells with a tumor-induced phenotype and directly related to predicted arrest of tumor growth.

Conclusion: The use of SANTAVAC ™ as a universal antigenic composition may spur vaccine development activities resulting in a set of therapeutic or prophylactic vaccines against different types of solid cancers. Read now: https://bit.ly/3IwKA1c

Drug Repurposing Approaches: Existing Leads for Novel Threats and Drug Targets

Author(s): Talambedu Usha, Sushil K. Middha, Anusha A. Kukanur, Rachamadugu V. Shravani, Mahantesh N. Anupama, Nagasamudram Harshitha, Ameena Rahamath, Sumedha S. Kulkarni, Arvind K. Goyal

Journal Name: Current Protein & Peptide Science

Why is it important?

Drug Repurposing (DR) is an alternative to the traditional drug discovery process. It is cost and time effective with high returns and low-risk process that can tackle the increasing need for interventions for varied diseases and new outbreaks. Repurposing of old drugs for other diseases has gained wider attention, as there have been several old drugs approved by the FDA for new diseases. In the global emergency of COVID-19 pandemic, this is one of the strategies implemented in the repurposing of old anti-infective, anti-rheumatic and anti-thrombotic drugs. The goal of the current review is to elaborate the process of DR, its advantages, repurposed drugs for a plethora of disorders, and the evolution of related academic publications. Further, detailed are the computational approaches: literature mining and semantic inference, network-based drug repositioning, signature matching, retrospective clinical analysis, molecular docking and experimental phenotypic screening. We discuss the legal and economic potential barriers in DR, existent collaborative models and recommendations for overcoming these hurdles and leveraging the complete potential of DR in finding new indications. Read more about the article here: https://bit.ly/3yMobGT

    • -