村上 明

8-Nitroguanosine is a nitratively modified nucleoside that is formed endogeneously under inflammatory conditions dependent on nitric oxide production, particularly associated with cancer risks. Here, we investigated the mutagenic potential of 8-nitroguanosine in mammalian cells. Treatment with 8-nitroguanosine (10-1000 mu M) for 1 h significantly increased (by 6-8 times) the mutation frequency of the xanthine-guanine phosphoribosyltransferase (gpt) gene in AS52 cells without cytotoxic effects. 8-Nitroguanosine treatment induced a G-to-T transversion in gpt gene at position 86. It also significantly increased levels of abasic sites in DNA. These observations Suggest that formation of 8-nitroguanosine may contribute to the pathogenesis of inflammation-associated carcinogenesis. (C) 2007 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

We investigated the susceptibility of 4-nitroquinoline 1-oxide (4-NQO)-induced tongue carcinogenesis in male CB6F1-Tg-rasH2 @Jcl mice (Tg mice). The Tg mice were administered 4-NQO (20 p.p.m. in drinking water) for 2, 4, 6 or 8 weeks, and thereafter they were untreated up to week 24. At week 24, a higher incidence (80%) of tongue neoplasm with dysplasia was noted in the mice that received 4-NQO for 8 weeks in comparison with the other groups (20% incidence for each) treated with 4-NQO for 2, 4 and 6 weeks. Esophageal tumors also developed in the Tg mice were 4-NQO. Immunohistochemical observation revealed that the EP receptors, especially EP1 and EP2, expressed in the tongue and esophageal lesions induced by 4-NQO, thus suggesting the involvement of prostaglandin (PG) E-2 and EP1,2 receptors in the tongue and esophageal carcinogenesis. Using this animal model, we investigated the potential chemopreventive ability of pitavastatin (1, 5 and 10 p.p.m. in diet for 15 weeks), starting 1 week after the cessation of 4-NQO-exposure (20 p.p.m. in drinking water for 8 weeks). Dietary pitavastatin at 10 p.p.m. significantly reduced the incidence and multiplicity of the tongue, but not esophageal neoplasms by the modulation of prostaglandin E2 biosynthesis, EP1 and EP2 expression and proliferation. Our results thus suggest that a rasH2 mouse model of 4-NQO-induced tongue and esophageal carcinogenesis can be utilized for investigating the pathogenesis of cancer development in these tissues and may well prove to be useful for identifying candidate cancer chemopreventive agents for the upper digestive organs.

A methanol extract of Alsomitra macrocarpa leaves and branches induced a marked alteration of cell morphology in a human stellate cell line (LX-2). Similar morphologic alterations were observed in several other cell lines. Active compound was purified from the extract and determined to be cucurbitacin E (Cuc E). It has been known that Cuc E causes marked disruption of the actin cytoskeleton, supporting our observation, but how Cuc E altered the actin cytoskeleton has not been elucidated. By using the standard fluorescence assay using copolymerization and depolymerization of native and pyrene labelled actin, this study revealed that Cuc E interacted directly with actin consequently stabilizing the polymerized actin. When NIH-3T3 cells exogenously expressing YFP-labeled actin were treated with Cuc E, firstly the aggregation of globular actin and secondly the aggregation of actin including disrupted fibrous actin in the cells was observed.

There is growing interest in the elucidation of the biological functions of triterpenoids, ubiquitously distributed throughout the plant kingdom, some of which are used as anticancer and anti-inflammatory agents in Asian countries. Ursolic acid (UA), a natural pentacyclic triterpenoid carboxylic acid, is the major component of some traditional medicine herbs and is well known to possess a wide range of biological functions, such as antioxidative, anti - inflammation, and anticancer activities, that are able to counteract endogenous and exogenous biological stimuli. In contrast to these beneficial properties, some laboratory studies have recently revealed that the effects of UA on normal cells and tissues are occasionally pro-inflammatory. Thus, UA may be designated as a double-edged sword with both positive and negative effects, and further evaluations of the effects of UA on the biological status of target cells or tissues are necessary. This review summarizes previous and current information regarding UA, and provides new insights into the underlying molecular mechanisms of its activities.

There is growing interest in the elucidation of the biological functions of triterpenoids, ubiquitously distributed throughout the plant kingdom, some of which are used as anticancer and anti-inflammatory agents in Asian countries. Ursolic acid (UA), a natural pentacyclic triterpenoid carboxylic acid, is the major component of some traditional medicine herbs and is well known to possess a wide range of biological functions, such as antioxidative, anti - inflammation, and anticancer activities, that are able to counteract endogenous and exogenous biological stimuli. In contrast to these beneficial properties, some laboratory studies have recently revealed that the effects of UA on normal cells and tissues are occasionally pro-inflammatory. Thus, UA may be designated as a double-edged sword with both positive and negative effects, and further evaluations of the effects of UA on the biological status of target cells or tissues are necessary. This review summarizes previous and current information regarding UA, and provides new insights into the underlying molecular mechanisms of its activities.

Biological, biochemical and physical stimuli activate inflammatory leukocytes, such as macrophages, resulting in induction and synthesis of proinflammatory proteins and enzymes, together with free radicals, as innate immune responses. On the other hand, chronic and dysregulated activation of some inducible enzymes, including NADPH oxidase (NOX), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase (COX)-2, have been shown to play pivotal roles in the development of certain inflammatory diseases such as oncogenesis. While the use of synthetic agents, especially those targeting molecules, is an attractive and reasonable approach to prevent carcinogenesis, it should be noted that traditional herbs and spices also exist along with their active constituents, which have been demonstrated to disrupt inflammatory signal transduction pathways. In this mini-review, the molecular mechanisms of activation or induction of NOX, iNOS and COX-2, as well as some food phytochemicals with marked potential to regulate those key inflammatory molecules, are highlighted. For example, V-acetoxychavicol acetate, which occurs in the rhizomes of the subtropical Zingiberaceae plant, has been shown to attenuate NOX-derived superoxide generation in macrophages, as well as lipopollysaccharide-induced nitric oxide and prostaglandin E-2 production through the suppression of iNOS and COX-2 synthesis, respectively. Notably, this phytochemical has exhibited a wide range of cancer prevention activities in several rodent models of inflammation-associated carcinogenesis. Herein, the cancer preventive potentials of several food phytochemicals targeting the induction of NOX, iNOS and COX-2 are described. (C) 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

(-)-Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), one of the main constituents of green tea, has been reported to function as an antioxidant with chemopreventive potential. In contrast, we have recently reported that EGCG enhanced pro-matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-7 in HT-29 human colon cancer cells via spontaneous superoxide generation. In the present study, we examined the effects of dietary antioxidants on both spontaneous and EGCG-upregulated proMMP-7 production in HT-29 cells. Benzyl isothiocyanate (BITC), curcumin (CUR), gallic acid (GA), and N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) reduced that production, while each alone did not have any effect on spontaneous production. None of the dietary factors suppressed EGCG-induced hydrogen peroxide generation in the media tested, whereas BITC, GA, and NAC inhibited the EGCG-enhanced activator protein (AP)-1 transcription activity by 126%, 77%, and 97%, respectively. Although CUR abolished the EGCG-upregulated MMP-7 mRNA expression, it unexpectedly enhanced the AP-1 activity by 502%, suggesting that this factor may disrupt the MMP-7 mRNA stabilization process. Together, our results indicate that dietary antioxidants modulate EGCG-induced MMP-7 production through different mechanisms.

(-)-Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), one of the main constituents of green tea, has been reported to function as an antioxidant with chemopreventive potential. In contrast, we have recently reported that EGCG enhanced pro-matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-7 in HT-29 human colon cancer cells via spontaneous superoxide generation. In the present study, we examined the effects of dietary antioxidants on both spontaneous and EGCG-upregulated proMMP-7 production in HT-29 cells. Benzyl isothiocyanate (BITC), curcumin (CUR), gallic acid (GA), and N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) reduced that production, while each alone did not have any effect on spontaneous production. None of the dietary factors suppressed EGCG-induced hydrogen peroxide generation in the media tested, whereas BITC, GA, and NAC inhibited the EGCG-enhanced activator protein (AP)-1 transcription activity by 126%, 77%, and 97%, respectively. Although CUR abolished the EGCG-upregulated MMP-7 mRNA expression, it unexpectedly enhanced the AP-1 activity by 502%, suggesting that this factor may disrupt the MMP-7 mRNA stabilization process. Together, our results indicate that dietary antioxidants modulate EGCG-induced MMP-7 production through different mechanisms.

Curcumin, a component of turmeric (Curcuma longa), has been shown to exhibit chemopreventive activity. Whether analogs of curcumin (Cur), such as demethoxycurcumin (DMC), bisdeme-thoxycurcurnin (BDMC), tetrahydrocurcumin (THC) and turmerones, modulate inflammatory signaling and cell proliferation signaling to same extent as curcumin was investigated. The results indicate that the relative potency for suppression of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-induced nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kappa B) activation was Cur > DMC > BDMC; thus suggesting the critical role of methoxy groups on the phenyl ring. THC, which lacks the conjugated bonds in the central seven-carbon chain, was completely inactive for suppression of the transcription factor. Turmeronesalso failed to inhibit TNF-induced NF-kappa B activation. The suppression of NF-kappa B activity correlated with inhibition of NF-KB reporter activity and with down-regulation of cyclooxygenase-2, cyclin D1 and vascular endothelial growth factor, all regulated by NF-KB. Ita contrast to NF-KB activity, the suppression of proliferation of various tumor cell lines by Cur, DMC and BDMC was found to be comparable; indicating the methoxy groups play minimum role in the growth-modulatory effects of curcumin. THC and turmerones were also found to be active in suppression of cell growth but to a much lesser extent than curcumin, DMC and BDMC. Whether suppression of NF-KB or cell proliferation, no relationsItip of any of the curcuminoid was found with reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Overall, our results demonstrated that different analogs of curcumin present in turmeric exhibit variable anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative activities, which do not correlate with their ability to modulate the ROS status.

The effect of lauric acid (LA), which is reported to induce cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 expression in macrophage cells (RAW 264.7) on the development of aberrant crypt foci (ACF), putative precursor lesions of colonic adenocarcinoma, was investigated in an inflammation-related mouse colon carcinogenesis model treated with azoxymethane (AOM) and dextran sulfate sodium (DSS). To induce ACF, male ICR mice were given a single intraperitoneal injection of AOM (10 mg/kg body weight) and then followed by 1% DSS in drinking water for one week, starting one week after dosing of AOM (AOM/DSS group). The AOM/DSS/LA group was fed with a diet containing 1% LA for 7 weeks, starting one week after the cessation of DSS administration. Other groups included the AOM/LA group given AOM and 1% LA diet for 9 weeks, the DSS/LA group given DSS and the diet with 1% LA, the AOM group that received AOM alone, the DSS group given DSS alone in drinking water, the LA group fed with 1% LA-containing diet alone, and the untreated group. At week 10 (end of the study), the frequency of ACF did not significantly differ between the AOM/DSS group (7.4 ± 3.0) and the AOM/DSS/LA group (8.4 ± 5.0). The value was extremely low in the AOM/LA group (1.0 ± 1.0) and in the AOM alone group (2.4 ± 2.7). No ACF developed in other groups. Our findings suggest that dietary LA did not influence the occurrence of ACF in the AOM/DSS-induced mouse colon tumorigenesis, indicating a lack of LA enhancing effects on the early phase of inflammation-related mouse colon carcinogenesis.

The effect of lauric acid (LA), which is reported to induce cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 expression in macrophage cells (RAW 264.7) on the development of aberrant crypt foci (ACF), putative precursor lesions of colonic adenocarcinoma, was investigated in an inflammation-related mouse colon carcinogenesis model treated with azoxymethane (AOM) and dextran sulfate sodium (DSS). To induce ACF, male ICR mice were given a single intraperitoneal injection of AOM (10 mg/kg body weight) and then followed by 1% DSS in drinking water for one week, starting one week after dosing of AOM (AOM/DSS group). The AOM/DSS/LA group was fed with a diet containing 1% LA for 7 weeks, starting one week after the cessation of DSS administration. Other groups included the AOM/LA group given AOM and 1% LA diet for 9 weeks, the DSS/LA group given DSS and the diet with 1% LA, the AOM group that received AOM alone, the DSS group given DSS alone in drinking water, the LA group fed with 1% LA-containing diet alone, and the untreated group. At week 10 (end of the study), the frequency of ACF did not significantly differ between the AOM/DSS group (7.4 ± 3.0) and the AOM/DSS/LA group (8.4 ± 5.0). The value was extremely low in the AOM/LA group (1.0 ± 1.0) and in the AOM alone group (2.4 ± 2.7). No ACF developed in other groups. Our findings suggest that dietary LA did not influence the occurrence of ACF in the AOM/DSS-induced mouse colon tumorigenesis, indicating a lack of LA enhancing effects on the early phase of inflammation-related mouse colon carcinogenesis.

Interleukin (IL)-1 beta is a pro-inflammatory cytokine that has been shown to play a pivotal role in the onset of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), however, the molecular mechanisms underlying the production of IL-1 beta in IBD are not fully understood. We investigated dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced IL-1 beta production and caspase-1 activities in murine peritoneal macrophages (pMempty set). Further, the activation status of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2), and c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK1/2), as well as their upstream target kinases, were examined by Western blotting. In addition, mRNA expression was assessed by RT-PCR and CXC chemokine ligand 16 (CXCL16) protein was detected by immunocytochemistry. DSS-treated pMempty set released IL-1 beta protein in a time-dependent manner without affecting mRNA levels during 3-24 h, and caspase-1 activity peaked at 5 min (29-fold). IL-1 beta release and caspase-1 activity induced by DSS were significantly inhibited by a MAPK kinase 1/2 inhibitor, a p38 MAPK inhibitor, and NAC, however, not by JNK1/2 or a protein kinase C inhibitor. In addition, DSS strikingly induced the phosphorylation of p38 MAPK and ERK1/2 within 2 and 10 min, respectively. DSS also induced intracellular generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Pre-treatment with anti-CXCL16 for 24 h, but not anti-scavenger receptor-A, anti-CD36, or anti-CD68 antibodies, significantly suppressed DSS-induced IL-1 beta production. Our results suggest that DSS triggers the release of IL-1 beta protein from murine pMempty set at a post-translational level through binding with CXCL16, ROS generation, and resultant activation of both p38 MAPK and ERK1/2 pathways, and finally caspase-1 activation. (c) 2007 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Unregulated uptake of oxidized low-density lipoproteins (ox-LDL) via macrophage scavenger receptors (SRs), such as lectin-like ox-LDL receptor-1 (LOX-1), is a key event in atherosclerosis. In the present study, we used differentiated Caco-2 cells as a model of the human small intestine to evaluate the suppressive effects of 16 traditional food items selected from Okinawa on 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA)-induced LOX-1 mRNA expression in THP-1 human monocyte-like cells. Three Zingiberaceae plants, Curcuma aromatica Salisbury, Curcuma longa L., and Zingiber zerumbet Smith, markedly suppressed that expression. When added to the apical sides of Caco-2 monolayers, zerumbone, a sesquiterpene from Z. zerumbet Smith, was found to permeate into the basolateral medium as an intact structure in a time-dependent manner. alpha-Humulene, a structural analog of zerumbone lacking the alpha,beta-unsaturated carbonyl group, did not suppress LOX-1 mRNA expression, indicating that its electrophilic moiety might play pivotal roles in its activities. Further, zerumbone attenuated the expression of SR-A, SR-PSOX, and CD36, but not that of CD68 or CLA-1, leading to a blockade of DiI-acLDL uptake, while it also inhibited the transcriptional activities of activator protein-1 and nuclear factor-kappa B. Together, our results indicate that zerumbone is a potential phytochemical for regulating atherosclerosis with reasonable action mechanisms.

Unregulated uptake of oxidized low-density lipoproteins (ox-LDL) via macrophage scavenger receptors (SRs), such as lectin-like ox-LDL receptor-1 (LOX-1), is a key event in atherosclerosis. In the present study, we used differentiated Caco-2 cells as a model of the human small intestine to evaluate the suppressive effects of 16 traditional food items selected from Okinawa on 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA)-induced LOX-1 mRNA expression in THP-1 human monocyte-like cells. Three Zingiberaceae plants, Curcuma aromatica Salisbury, Curcuma longa L., and Zingiber zerumbet Smith, markedly suppressed that expression. When added to the apical sides of Caco-2 monolayers, zerumbone, a sesquiterpene from Z. zerumbet Smith, was found to permeate into the basolateral medium as an intact structure in a time-dependent manner. alpha-Humulene, a structural analog of zerumbone lacking the alpha,beta-unsaturated carbonyl group, did not suppress LOX-1 mRNA expression, indicating that its electrophilic moiety might play pivotal roles in its activities. Further, zerumbone attenuated the expression of SR-A, SR-PSOX, and CD36, but not that of CD68 or CLA-1, leading to a blockade of DiI-acLDL uptake, while it also inhibited the transcriptional activities of activator protein-1 and nuclear factor-kappa B. Together, our results indicate that zerumbone is a potential phytochemical for regulating atherosclerosis with reasonable action mechanisms.

We demonstrated here for the first time that zerumbone (ZER), a natural cyclic sesquiterpene, significantly suppressed the proliferation of promyelocytic leukemia NB4 cells among several leukemia cell lines, but not human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), by inducing G2/M cell cycle arrest followed by apoptosis with 10 mu M of IC50. Treatment of NB4 cells with growth-suppressive concentrations of ZER resulted in G2/M cell cycle arrest that was associated with a decline of Cyclin B1 protein, but with the phosphorylation of ATM/Chk1/Chk2. In addition, ZER induced the phosphorylation of Cdc25C at the Thr48 residue and Cdc2 at the Thr14/Tyr15 residues. Furthermore, ZER-induced apoptosis in NB4 cells was initiated by the expression of Fas (CD95)/Fas Ligand (CD95L), concomitant with the activation of caspase-8. ZER was also found to induce the cleavage of Bid, a mediator that is known to connect the Fas/CD95 cell death receptor to the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway. ZER also induced the cleavage of Bax and Mcl-1 proteins, but not Bcl-2 or Bcl-X-L. ZER-induced apoptosis took place in association with a loss of the mitochondrial transmembrane potential as well as the activation of caspase-3 and -9, resulting in the degradation of the proteolytic poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP). ZER also triggered a release of cytochrome c into the cytoplasm. Both antagonistic anti-Fas antibody ZB4 and pan-caspase inhibitor Z-VAD inhibited ZER-induced apoptosis in NB4 cells. Taken together, ZER is an inducer of apoptosis in leukemic cells that specifically triggers the Fas/CD95- and mitochondria-mediated apoptotic signaling pathway.

Unregulated uptake of oxidized low-density lipoproteins (ox-LDL) via macrophage scavenger receptors (SRs) is a key event in atherosclerosis. We previously reported that nobiletin (NOB), a citrus polymethoxylated flavone, markedly reduced 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA)-induced SRs and adhesion molecules mRNA expression and blockade of DiI-acLDL uptake in THP-1 human monocyte-like cells. In this study, we examined the effects of NOB metabolites, 3'-hydroxy-5,6,7,8,4'-pentamethoxyflavone (3'-demethyl-NOB), 4'-hydroxy-5,6,7,8,3'-pentamethoxyflavone (4'-demethyl-NOB) and 3',4'-dihydroxy-5,6,7,8,-tetramethoxyflavone (3',4'-didemethyl-NOB) and NOB analog, tangeretin, on SRs and adhesion molecules mRNA expression. 3'-Demethyl-NOB significantly suppressed CD36 expression, moreover, 4'-demethyl- and 3',4'-didemethyl-NOB significantly suppressed TPA-induced expression of SR-A and LOX-1. Further, the suppressive effects of 4'-demethyl- and 3',4'-didemethyl-NOB on the expression of CD36 mRNA were greater extent than parent NOB. The inhibitory effects of the metabolites toward TPA-induced SR mRNA expression are partly associated with the suppression of AP-1 and NF-kappa B transcriptional activities. Together, our results suggest that metabolites of NOB, such as 4'-demethyl- and 3',4'-didemethyl-NOB, have comparable or higher potentials to attenuate SR expression than NOB.

Bone resorption is known to accelerate during the onset of several disorders, including osteoporosis (OP) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Some epidemiological surveys have suggested that a high intake of vegetables and fruits has an inverse relation to such disease incidence, though the number of active constituents elucidated thus far is limited. In the present study, we examined the efficacy of various food phytochemicals using two animal models. First, female ddY mice were ovariectomized (OVX) or sham-operated (sham), after which five different compounds (phenethyl isothiocyanate, zerumbone, auraptene, 1'-acetoxychavicol acetate, and nobiletin) were administered separately to OVX mice with a mini-osmotic pump at doses of 0.25 or 0.5 mg/day for 4 weeks, with 17 beta-estradiol (E-2, 0.03 mu g/day) used as a positive control. Nobiletin, in contrast to the other tested phytochemicals, significantly (P < 0.05) suppressed the reduction of whole bone mineral density by 61%, which was comparable to or higher than the efficacy of E2. Next, nobiletin given as an i.p. administration at 20 mg/kg of body weight, but not 2 mg/kg, to male DBA/1J mice every 2 days for 12 days led to a marked decrease in type II collagen-induced arthritis by 45% (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the flavonoid (4-50 mu M) attenuated receptor activator of nuclear factor kappaB ligand (RANKL)-induced osteoclastogenesis of RAW264.7 cells, as detected by tartarate-resistant acid phosphatase activity and microscopic observations. Of note, nobiletin also suppressed RANKL-activated extracellular signal-regulated kinase1/2, c-Jun N-terminal kinase1/2, and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase activities, and thereby regulated the promoter activation of nuclear factor kappaB (NFkB) and activator protein-1, key transcription factors for differentiation. Together, our results suggest that nobiletin is a promising phytochemical for the prevention or treatment of osteoclastogenesis-related disorders, including OP and RA, with reasonable action mechanisms.

Osteoclastogenesis is induced by differentiation of hemopoietic cells of monocyte-macrophage lineage into bone-resorbing osteoclasts. The process is initiated by receptor activator of NF-kappaB ligand (RANKL) and resultant activation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK), including extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2, as well as the NF kappa B pathway. Phenethyl isothiocyanate (PEITC), a phytochemical present in various cruciferous plants, has been shown to disrupt those signaling pathways in several cell types. In this study, we examined the efficacy of PEITC for suppressing RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis in RAW264.7 murine macrophages and addressed the underlying molecular mechanisms. PEITC (2-10 mu M) suppressed osteoclastogenesis in a concentration dependent manner, as detected by tartarate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) activity and microscopic observations. RANKL-up-regulated extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2 and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) activities were attenuated by PEITC, whereas c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK1/2) activation was increased. PEITC also abrogated the RANKL-induced degradation of I kappa B-alpha, a suppressive partner of nuclear factor kappaB (NF kappa B), thereby inhibiting transcription activity, as detected by a reporter assay. In addition, PEITC reduced the level of NF kappa B-dependent mRNA expression of nuclear factor of activated T cell (NFAT)c1, a master regulator of osteoclastogenesis. Our results indicate that PEITC is a promising agent for treatment of osteoclastogenesis with a reasonable action mechanism.

We demonstrated here for the first time that zerumbone (ZER), a natural cyclic sesquiterpene, significantly suppressed the proliferation of promyelocytic leukemia NB4 cells among several leukemia cell lines, but not human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), by inducing G2/M cell cycle arrest followed by apoptosis with 10 mu M of IC50. Treatment of NB4 cells with growth-suppressive concentrations of ZER resulted in G2/M cell cycle arrest that was associated with a decline of Cyclin B1 protein, but with the phosphorylation of ATM/Chk1/Chk2. In addition, ZER induced the phosphorylation of Cdc25C at the Thr48 residue and Cdc2 at the Thr14/Tyr15 residues. Furthermore, ZER-induced apoptosis in NB4 cells was initiated by the expression of Fas (CD95)/Fas Ligand (CD95L), concomitant with the activation of caspase-8. ZER was also found to induce the cleavage of Bid, a mediator that is known to connect the Fas/CD95 cell death receptor to the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway. ZER also induced the cleavage of Bax and Mcl-1 proteins, but not Bcl-2 or Bcl-X-L. ZER-induced apoptosis took place in association with a loss of the mitochondrial transmembrane potential as well as the activation of caspase-3 and -9, resulting in the degradation of the proteolytic poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP). ZER also triggered a release of cytochrome c into the cytoplasm. Both antagonistic anti-Fas antibody ZB4 and pan-caspase inhibitor Z-VAD inhibited ZER-induced apoptosis in NB4 cells. Taken together, ZER is an inducer of apoptosis in leukemic cells that specifically triggers the Fas/CD95- and mitochondria-mediated apoptotic signaling pathway.

Previously we reported that auraptene was a potent suppressant for matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-7 expression in HT-29 human colon cancer cells. In the present study, we examined the effects of auraptene on MMP-2, -7, and -9 expression in colonic mucosa from dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced ulcerative colitis mice. Auraptene remarkably suppressed the DSS-induced gelatinolytic activity of MMP-7 as well as the expression of MMP-2 and -9, suggesting that it might be useful in anti-metastatic therapies via the targeting of MMPS.

Previously we reported that auraptene was a potent suppressant for matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-7 expression in HT-29 human colon cancer cells. In the present study, we examined the effects of auraptene on MMP-2, -7, and -9 expression in colonic mucosa from dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced ulcerative colitis mice. Auraptene remarkably suppressed the DSS-induced gelatinolytic activity of MMP-7 as well as the expression of MMP-2 and -9, suggesting that it might be useful in anti-metastatic therapies via the targeting of MMPS.

Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-7 is considered to play essential roles in cancer progression. We examined the efficacy of auraptene, a citrus coumarin derivative, for suppressing MMP-7 expression in the human colorectal adenocarcinoma cell line HT-29. Auraptene remarkably inhibited the production of proMMP-7 protein, without affecting its mRNA expression level. Rapamycin, an inhibitor of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), showed similar results, suggesting that auraptene suppresses mTOR-dependent proMMP-7 translation. Interestingly, however, auraptene showed no effects on the activation of Akt/ mTOR signaling, whereas the phosphorylation levels of 4E binding protein (4EBP)1 and eukaryotic translation initiation factor (eIF)4B were substantially decreased. In addition, auraptene remarkably dephosphorylated constitutively activated extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)1/2. Transfection of ERK1/2 siRNA led to a significant reduction of proMMP-7 protein production as well as of the phosphorylation of eIF4B. These results demonstrate that auraptene targets the translation step for proMMP-7 protein synthesis by disrupting ERK1/2-mediated phosphorylation of 4EBP1 and eIF4B. (c) 2006 Federation of European Biochemical Societies. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Unregulated uptake of oxidized low-density lipoproteins (ox-LDL) via macrophage scavenger receptors (SRs) such as lectin-like ox-LDL receptor-1 (LOX-1) is a key event in atherosclerosis. In this study, we examined the effects of five selected food phytochemicals on 12-0-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA)-induced LOX-1 mRNA expression in THP-1 human monocyte-like cells. Nobiletin, a citrus polymethoxylated flavone, markedly reduced it in dose- and time-dependent manners. It also suppressed the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase (ERK) 1/2, c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK) 1/2, and c-Jun (Ser-63). thereby inhibiting the transcriptional activity of activator protein-1. Further nobiletin attenuated expression of SR-A, SR-PSOX, CD36, and CD68, but not CLA-1, mRNA, leading to the blockade of Dil-acLDL uptake. Together, our results suggest that nobiletin is a promising phytochemical for regulating atherosclerosis with reasonable action mechanisms. (c) 2006 Federation of European Biochemical Societies. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The modifying effects of dietary feeding with chrysin (5,7-dihydroxyflavone) on the development of azoxymethane (AOM)-induced colonic aberrant crypt foci (ACF) were investigated in male F344 rats. We also assessed the effect of chrysin on mitosis and apoptosis in 'normal appearing' crypts. To induce ACF, rats were given two weekly subcutaneous injections of AOM (20 mg/kg body weight). They also received an experimental diet containing chrysin (0.001 or 0.01%) for 4 weeks, starting 1 week before the first dose of AOM. AOM exposure produced a substantial number of ACF (73 +/- 13/rat) at the end of the study (week 4). Dietary administration of chrysin caused significant reduction in the frequency of ACF: 0.001% chrysin, 37 +/- 17/rat (49% reduction, P < 0.001); and 0.01% chrysin, 40 +/- 10/rat (45% reduction, P < 0.001). In addition, chrysin administration significantly reduced the mitotic index and significantly increased the apoptotic index in 'normal appearing' crypts. These findings might suggest a possible chemopreventive activity of chrysin in the early step of colon tumorigenesis through modulation of cryptal cell proliferation activity and apoptosis.

Unregulated uptake of oxidized low-density lipoproteins (ox-LDL) via macrophage scavenger receptors (SRs) such as lectin-like ox-LDL receptor-1 (LOX-1) is a key event in atherosclerosis. In this study, we examined the effects of five selected food phytochemicals on 12-0-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA)-induced LOX-1 mRNA expression in THP-1 human monocyte-like cells. Nobiletin, a citrus polymethoxylated flavone, markedly reduced it in dose- and time-dependent manners. It also suppressed the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase (ERK) 1/2, c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK) 1/2, and c-Jun (Ser-63). thereby inhibiting the transcriptional activity of activator protein-1. Further nobiletin attenuated expression of SR-A, SR-PSOX, CD36, and CD68, but not CLA-1, mRNA, leading to the blockade of Dil-acLDL uptake. Together, our results suggest that nobiletin is a promising phytochemical for regulating atherosclerosis with reasonable action mechanisms. (c) 2006 Federation of European Biochemical Societies. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

An anti-inflammatory triterpenoid, ursolic acid (UA), has recently been found unexpectedly to induce the release of a pro-inflammatory mediator in resting macrophages. In this study, we found that topical applications of UA to mouse skin twice a week for 2 weeks significantly enhanced mRNA expression of cyclooxygenase (COX)-1, COX-2, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha, whereas its effect on tumor promotion was unclear.

Osteoclastogenesis is commonly associated with various age-related diseases, including cancer. A member of the tumor necrosis factor superfamily, receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kappa B) ligand (RANKL), has been shown to play a critical role in osteoclast formation and bone resorption. Thus, agents that suppress RANKL signaling have a potential to suppress bone loss. In this report, we investigated the effect of 1'-acetoxychavicol acetate (ACA), a component of Alpina galanga, on RANKL signaling and consequent osteoclastogenesis in RAW 264.7 cells, a murine monocytic cell line. Treatment of these cells with RANKL activated NF-kappa B, and coexposure of the cells to ACA completely suppressed RANKL-induced NF-kappa B activation in a time- and concentration-dependent manner. The suppression of NF-kappa B by ACA was mediated through suppression of RANKL-induced activation of I kappa B alpha kinase, I kappa B alpha phosphorylation, and I kappa B alpha degradation. Furthermore, incubation of monocytic cells with RANKL induced osteoclastogenesis, and ACA suppressed it. Inhibition of osteoclastogenesis was maximal when cells were simultaneously exposed to ACA and RANKL and minimum when ACA was added 2 days after RANKL. ACA also inhibited the osteoclastogenesis induced by human breast cancer MCF-7 cells, multiple myeloma MM1 cells, and head and neck squamous cell carcinoma LICR-LON-HN5 cells. These results indicate that ACA is an effective blocker of RANKL-induced NF-kappa B activation and of osteoclastogenesis induced by RANKL and tumor cells, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic agent for osteoporosis and cancer-associated bone loss.

Active inflammatory leukocytes are a major endogenous source of reactive oxygen and nitrogen oxide species (RONS). We have recently established novel bioassay systems, in which either phorbol ester-stimulated, differentiated HL-60 human leukemia cells or lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW264.7 murine macrophages were co-cultured with AS52 Chinese hamster ovary cells. Extensive screening of extracts from Asian vegetables and fruits led to the identification of 1'-acetoxychavicol acetate (ACA), auraptene, nobiletin, and zerumbone, all of which were found to be highly anti-mutagenic in the above co-culture systems. Pretreatment of RAW264.7 macrophages with LPS led to the activation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and Akt, together with the degradation of IkB-alpha protein, and the resultant activation of the AP-1, NF-B-k, and CREB transcription factors. ACA abrogated ERK1/2 and JNK1/2, but not p38 activation, as well as the activation and transcriptional activation of NF-kB and CREB, whereas nobiletin allowed phosphorylation of these MAPKs, while it suppressed AP-1, NF-B-k, and CREB activation. Interestingly, zerumbone did not have any effects on the latter transcription factors, although it did attenuate iNOS mRNA expression. In addition, auraptene suppressed iNOS protein production, but not mRNA expression, implying that it targets the translation step. Our model systems may be useful for identifying potentially anti-carcinogenic inhibitors of RONS generation.

A component of a traditional Thai condiment, 1'-acetoxychavicol acetate (ACA), is a natural compound, and it is obtained from rhizomes of the ethno-medicinal plant Languas galanga (Zingiberaceae). Our previous studies showed that ACA dramatically inhibited cellular growth of multiple myeloma cells in vivo and in vitro through the induction of apoptosis in association with the activation of caspase-8, inactivation of NF-kappa B, and down-regulation of anti-apoptotic proteins. Subsequently, we investigated the detailed apoptotic pathway of ACA and further demonstrated that ACA up-regulates the expression of both TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand/Apo2 ligand (TRAIL/Apo2L) and TRAIL receptor death receptor 5 (DR5). In addition, TRAIL/R-Fc chimera neutralizes the ACA-induced apoptosis. These results suggest that the death signaling of TRAIL is involved in the ACA-induced apoptosis of myeloma cells, and provide a rationale for the induction of TRAIL/Apo2L by ACA, which could potentially be used as a novel therapeutic agent in patients with multiple myeloma. (c) 2005 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, including superoxide (O-2(-)) and nitric oxide (NO), are known to be mediators of oxidative stress and play pivotal roles in the onset of numerous life style-related diseases. While a number of studies have shown that naturally occurring anti-oxidants may be applicable for prevention and therapy for those diseases, most in vitro anti-oxidation tests reported have not provided significant insight into the absorption efficiency or metabolism of dietary anti-oxidants in the gastrointestinal tract. In the present study, we established a novel assay system by focusing on the bioconversion of food constituents using differentiated Caco-2 cells as a model of human intestinal epithelial cells. Various fresh food preparations [ginger, garlic, shimeji ( Hypsizigus marmoreus ), onion, carrot] were added to the apical side of differentiated Caco-2 monolayers. After incubation, the medium was recovered and tested for its inhibitory effects on 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA)-induced generation in differentiated HL-60 cells, and on combined lipopolysaccharide (LPS)- and interferon (IFN)-gamma -induced NO generation in RAW 264.7 macrophages. The garlic preparation (25% v/v) basolateral medium abolished generation without any cytotoxicity toward HL-60 cells, though it was cytotoxic to Caco-2 cells. In the NO generation tests, all of the food preparations showed notable inhibitory activity, while the garlic preparation (5% v/v) basolateral medium inhibited NO generation with substantial cytotoxicity toward RAW 264.7 cells. Interestingly, the carrot preparation (1% v/v) basolateral medium inhibited NO generation in both a concentration- and time-dependent manner without any cytotoxicity toward RAW 264.7 or Caco-2 cells, and its activities were higher than those of the carrot preparation alone (1% v/v). Our results indicate that the present assay system is appropriate and reliable for determination of the anti-oxidative efficacy of dietary phytochemicals in vivo .

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is an immunologically mediated disorder that is characterized by chronic, relapsing, and inflammatory responses. Dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced experimental colitis in mice has been recognized as a useful model for human IBD and interleukin (IL)-1 beta is a key cytokine in the onset of IBD. The purpose of the present study was to clarify which pro-inflammatory mediators are targeted by IL-1 beta in mice with DSS-induced colitis. First, we found that DSS markedly induced IL-1 beta production in both dose- and time-dependent manners (P < 0.05 and P < 0.01, respectively) in murine peritoneal macrophages (pM phi), while that of tumor necrosis factor-alpha was insignificant. Further, the expressions of mRNA and protein for IL-1 beta were increased in colonic mucosa and pM phi from mice that received drinking water containing 5% DSS for 7 days (P < 0.01, each). In addition, the expressions of IL-6, granulocyte macrophage-colony stimulating factor, inducible nitric oxidesynthase, and cyclooxygenase-2 mRNA were also time dependently increased (P < 0.01, each). Furthermore, administration of rIL-1 beta (10 mu g/kg, i.p.) significantly induced the expressions of IL-1 beta and IL-6 mRNA in colonic mucosa from non-treated mice (P < 0.01). Anti-mIL-1 beta antibody treatments (50 mu g/kg, i.p.) attenuated DSS-induced body weight reduction and shortening of the colorectum (P < 0.05, each), and abrogated the expressions of IL-I beta and IL-6 mRNA in colonic mucosa (P < 0.01, each). Our results evidently support the previous findings that IL-1 beta is involved in the development of DSS-induced experimental colitis in mice, and strongly suggest that IL-1 beta targets itself and IL-6 for progressing colonic inflammation. (c) 2005 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) plays some pivotal roles in innate immunity and inflammation. Ursolic acid (UA), an anti-inflammatory triterpene carboxylic acid, was recently reported to induce the release of pro-inflammatory mediators in resting macrophages (M phi). We investigated the effects of UA on MIF protein release in resting RAW264.7 mouse M phi, and found that it decreased intracellular MIF protein levels and promoted the release of MIF into the culture media in dose- and time-dependent manners, without affecting mRNA levels. Further, the triterpene strikingly induced activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase 1/2 (MEK1/2) and extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERKI/2) within 30 min, whereas no phosphorylation of p38 MAPK or INK protein was observed. In addition, UA-promoted MIF release was significantly inhibited by PD98059, a MEK1/2 inhibitor, while siRNA for ERK2, but not ERK1, significantly decreased the amount of MIF protein released. These results suggest that UA triggers the release of intracellular MIF protein through the ERK2 activation. (c) 2005 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

We previously conducted screening tests of the chloroform extracts from a total of 89 species of Japanese plant food items for their suppressive effects on superoxide (O-2(-)) generation through both NADPH oxidase and xanthine oxidase, and reported that mioga ginger (Zingiber mioga Roscoe) indicated the strongest suppressive activities. In this study, the suppressive effects of mioga ginger constituents, aframodial, and galanal B, together with [6]-gingerol and galanolactone occurring in ginger, on free radical generation and inducible proinflammatory gene expressions were investigated. Of these constituents, aframodial (20 mu M) exhibited marked suppressive effects on 12-0-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate-induced O-2(-) generation in HL-60 cells and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)/interferon-gamma-induced nitric oxide (NO) generation in RAW264.7 cells (inhibition rates [IRs] = 84.6% and 95.9%, respectively). Aframodial also strongly suppressed the stimulated HL-60 cell-induced mutagenicity in AS52 cells (IR = 95.9%). The LPS-induced expression of inducible proinflammatory genes such as inducible NO synthase, interleukin (IL)-1 beta, IL-6, and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor was significantly abolished (IRs = 99.1%, 74.6%, 74.0%, and 64.4%, respectively) by aframodial. In addition, degradation of the inhibitor of nuclear factor kappa B was suppressed by this compound (IR = 100%), suggesting that the suppression of nuclear factor kappa B activation, at least in part, is involved. Taken together, these results suggest that aframodial has potent antioxidative and anti-inflammatory potentials, and may be a promising candidate in prevention and/or therapy for chronic inflammation-associated carcinogenesis.

Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-7 (matrilysin-1) plays significant roles in the growth, invasion, and metastasis of colorectal tumors, while (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a green tea polyphenol with chemopreventive properties, has been shown to be an inhibitor of MMP-2 and MMP-9. In the present study, HT-29 human colorectal cancer cells were treated with EGCG to examine its effects on pro-MMP-7 induction and production using RT-PCR and western blot analyses. Surprisingly, EGCG (10-100 mu M) treatment increased both intracellular and extracellular pro-MMP-7 protein levels (2.6-8.4-fold and 1.9-6.4-fold, respectively) in dose- and time-dependent manner, with a significant upregulation of its mRNA expression. EGCG also activated extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase (ERK)1/2, c-JUN NH2-terminal kinase (JNK)1/2 and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), as previously reported. In addition, the polyphenol triggered the phosphorylation of c-JUN (Ser63 and Ser73) and induced c-JUN/c-FOS, thereby increasing the DNA binding activity of activator protein-1 (AP-1), as shown by an AP-1 luciferase reporter assay. Pharmacological blockade of MAPK activities suggested that pro-MMP-7 expression was induced via JNK1/2 activation, but not in the case of ERK1/2 or p38 MAPK. N-Acetyl-l-cysteine, superoxide (O-2(-)) dismutase and catalase attenuated the EGCG-induced pro-MMP-7 production, suggesting an involvement of oxidative stress in these events. Conversely, EGCG spontaneously generated O-2(-) in a cell-free system that utilized a cytochrome C reduction method. Further, (-)-epicatechin-3-gallate (25 and 100 mu M) and green tea polyphenols (33 and 132 mu g/ml) induced pro-MMP-7 expression, whereas (-)-epicatechin and (-)-epigallocatechin (100 mu M each) did not. Induction of pro-MMP-7 expression by EGCG was also shown in another human colorectal adenocarcinoma cell line, Caco-2. Our results suggest that some green tea catechins induce pro-MMP-7 production via O-2(-) production and the activation of JNK1/2, c-JUN, c-FOS and AP-1 in HT-29 cells.

l'-Acetoxychavicol acetate (ACA), extracted from rhizomes of the commonly used ethno-medicinal plant Languas galanga, has been found to suppress chemical- and virus-induced tumor initiation and promotion through a poorly understood mechanism. Because several genes that regulate cellular proliferation, carcinogenesis, metastasis, and survival are regulated by activation of the transcription factor NF-kappa B, we postulated that ACA might mediate its activity through modulation of NF-kappa B activation. For this report, we investigated the effect of ACA on NF-kappa B and NF-kappa B-regulated gene expression activated by various carcinogens. We found that ACA suppressed NF-kappa B activation induced by a wide variety of inflammatory and carcinogenic agents, including TNF, IL-1 beta, PMA, LPS, H2O2, doxorubicin, and cigarette smoke condensate. Suppression was not cell type specific, because both inducible and constitutive NF-kappa B activations were blocked by ACA. ACA did not interfere with the binding of NF-kappa B to the DNA, but, rather, inhibited I kappa B alpha kinase activation, I kappa B alpha phosphorylation, I kappa B alpha degradation, p65 phosphorylation, and subsequent p65 nuclear translocation. ACA also inhibited NF-kappa B-dependent reporter gene expression activated by TNF, TNFR1, TNFR-associated death domain protein, TNFR-associated factor-2, and I kappa B alpha kinase, but not that activated by p65. Consequently, ACA suppressed the expression of TNF-induced NF-kappa B-regulated proliferative (e.g., cyclin D1 and c-Myc), antiapoptotic (survivin, inhibitor of apoptosis protein-1 (IAP1), IAP2, X-chromosome-linked IAP, Bcl-2, Bcl-x(L), Bfl-1/A1, and FLIP), and metastatic (cyclooxygenase-2, ICAM-1, vascular endothelial growth factor, and matrix metalloprotease-9) gene products. ACA also enhanced the apoptosis induced by TNF and chemotherapeutic agents and suppressed invasion. Overall, our results indicate that ACA inhibits activation of NF-kappa B and NF-kappa B-regulated gene expression, which may explain the ability of ACA to enhance apoptosis and inhibit invasion.

Oxidative stress has been shown to play a pivotal role in the onset of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and carcinogenesis. We evaluated the effects of two dietary anti-oxidants, rutin and its aglycone quercetin, on dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced experimental colitis in mice. Female ICR mice were fed a diet containing 0.1% rutin or 0.1% quercetin for 2 weeks, and given 5% DSS in drinking water during the second week to induce colitis. We also examined the dose-dependency of rutin and quercetin (0.01% and 0.001% each) as well as their therapeutic efficacy, which was evaluated following DSS administration, on DSS-induced colitis. The protein level of interleukin (IL)- 1beta in both colonic mucosa and peritoneal macrophages was quantified by enzyme-linked inummosorbent assay. Further, mRNA expression levels of IL-1beta, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, IL-6, granulocyte macrophage-colony stimulating factor, inducible nitric oxide synthase, and cyclooxygenase (COX)-1and COX-2 in colonic mucosa were determined by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. A diet containing 0.1% rutin, but not quercetin, attenuated DSS-induced body weight loss and shortening of the colorectum (P < 0.01 and < 0.05, respectively), and dramatically improved colitis histological scores. Further, DSS-induced increases in colonic mucosal IL-1beta levels were blunted significantly in rutin-, but not quercetin-, fed mice (P < 0.01), while dietary rutin attenuated the expressions of IL-1beta and IL-6 mRNA in colonic mucosa (each, P < 0.01). As for dose dependency, 0.01 %, but not 0.001 %, dietary rutin significantly reduced mucosal IL-1beta levels (P < 0.01). Notably, a 0.1% rutin diet given 3 days after DSS treatment significantly suppressed both colorectal shortening and IL-1beta production (P < 0.05 and < 0.01, respectively). Dietary rutin ameliorates DSS-induced colitis, presumably by suppressing the induction of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Our results suggest that rutin may be useful for the prevention and treatment of IBD and colorectal carcinogenesis via attenuation of pro-inflammatory cytokine production. (C) 2004 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Overexpression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) is associated with cancer metastasis. We assessed mRNA expression of MMPs in six human colorectal cancer cell lines and found a considerable level of MMP-7 expression in HT-29 cells. Next, we searched for natural and synthetic compounds that cause a reduction in the production of proMMP-7 protein, and found that nobiletin (NOB), quercetin, valeryl salicylate, and sulindac sulfone demonstrated marked inhibition. Importantly, NOB attenuated proMMP-7 protein and its mRNA expression both concentration- and time-dependently via a reduction of activator protein-1 (AP-1) DNA binding activity, suggesting it as a promising agent for suppression of cancer cell invasion and metastasis through MMP-7 gene repression.