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We have previously published research on the anti-viral properties of an alkaloid mixture extracted from Nuphar lutea, the major components of the partially purified mixture found by NMR analysis. These are mostly dimeric sesquiterpene thioalkaloids called thiobinupharidines and thiobinuphlutidines against the negative strand RNA measles virus (MV). We have previously reported that this extract inhibits the MV as well as its ability to downregulate several MV proteins in persistently MV-infected cells, especially the P (phospho)-protein. Based on our observation that the Nuphar extract is effective in vitro against the MV, and the immediate need that the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic created, we tested here the ability of 6,6′-dihydroxythiobinupharidine DTBN, an active small molecule, isolated from the Nuphar lutea extract, on COVID-19. As shown here, DTBN effectively inhibits SARS-CoV-2 production in Vero E6 cells at non-cytotoxic concentrations. The short-term daily administration of DTBN to infected mice delayed the occurrence of severe clinical outcomes, lowered virus levels in the lungs and improved survival with minimal changes in lung histology. The viral load on lungs was significantly reduced in the treated mice. DTBN is a pleiotropic small molecule with multiple targets. Its anti-inflammatory properties affect a variety of pathogens including SARS-CoV-2 as shown here. Its activity appears to target both pathogen specific (as suggested by docking analysis) as well as cellular proteins, such as NF-κB, PKCs, cathepsins and topoisomerase 2, that we have previously identified in our work. Thus, this combined double action of virus inhibition and anti-inflammatory activity may enhance the overall effectivity of DTBN. The promising results from this proof-of-concept in vitro and in vivo preclinical study should encourage future studies to optimize the use of DTBN and/or its molecular derivatives against this and other related viruses.

Ovarian cancer (OC) ranks as the second most common type of gynecological malignancy, has poor survival rates, and is frequently diagnosed at an advanced stage. Platinum-based chemotherapy, such as carboplatin, represents the standard-of-care for OC. However, toxicity and acquired resistance to therapy have proven challenging for the treatment of patients. Chemoresistance, a principal obstacle to durable response in OC patients, is attributed to alterations within the cancer cells, and it can also be mediated by the tumor microenvironment (TME). In this study, we report that conditioned medium (CM) derived from murine and human stromal cells, MS-5 and HS-5, respectively, and tumor-activated HS-5, was active in conferring platinum chemoresistance to OC cells. Moreover, CM derived from differentiated murine pre-adipocyte (3T3-L1), but not undifferentiated pre-adipocyte cells, confers platinum chemoresistance to OC cells. Interestingly, CM derived from tumor-activated HS-5 was more effective in conferring chemoresistance than was CM derived from HS-5 cells. Various OC cells exhibit variable sensitivity to CM activity. Exploring CM content revealed the enrichment of a number of soluble factors in the tumor-activated HS-5, such as soluble uPAR (SuPAR), IL-6, and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF). FDA-approved JAK inhibitors were mildly effective in restoring platinum sensitivity in two of the three OC cell lines in the presence of CM. Moreover, Crizotinib, an ALK and c-MET inhibitor, in combination with platinum, blocked HGF’s ability to promote platinum resistance and to restore platinum sensitivity to OC cells. Finally, exposure to 2-hydroxyestardiol (2HE2) was effective in restoring platinum sensitivity to OC cells exposed to CM. Our results showed the significance of soluble factors found in TME in promoting platinum chemoresistance and the potential of combination therapy to restore chemosensitivity to OC cells.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS EPO resistance and iron deficiency in CKD-related anemia are associated with an increase in inflammatory cytokines associated with the innate immune response, such as IL-6, IL-1 and TNF-α. Recently (Bandach et al. Sci Reports 2021) we reported that kidney fibrosis and anemia of CKD can be worsened or relieved when IL1 effects are enhanced or inhibited respectively. The Water lily (Nuphar lutea) plant has been widely used as a traditional remedy for the treatment of rheumatism, scars, pain and more. Gopas, Golan-Goldhirsh et al. (Cancer Biology Therapy 2009) extracted an active ingredient from the family of nupharidines: 6,6′-Dihydroxythiobinupharidine (DTBN), which showed anti-inflammatory properties, mainly through the inhibition of NF-κB. The purpose of this study was to test the effects of DTBN in a mouse model of CKD-associated anemia. METHOD 8 weeks old male C57BL/6 mice were divided into three groups: control, CKD (induced by adenine diet) and CKD-DTBN. CKD groups were injected with saline-DMSO or 30 µg DTBN, every 2 days and sacrificed after 3 weeks from dietary intervention. RESULTS Serum urea and kidney TGFβ mRNA were significantly decreased in CKD- DTBN versus CKD. Kidney histology in CKD mice showed macrophage infiltration and renal fibrosis, which was ameliorated in CKD-DTBN. A significant improvement in inflammation indices (blood lymphocytes, kidney and liver IL-6 and p-STAT3, liver CRP), as well as kidney immunoreactive NF-κB and F4\80, which were increased in CKD, were decreased in CKD-DTBN. CKD anemia indices (hemoglobin, hematocrit and red blood cell (RBC) count) significantly improved in CKD-DTBN. Kidney HIF-2α and EPO mRNA were significantly decreased in both uremic groups, but was unchanged in CKD- DTBN versus CKD. However, serum iron and transferrin saturation significantly increased in CKD-DTBN versus CKD. CONCLUSION Uremic mice treated with DTBN show improvement in kidney fibrosis, inflammation and anemia indices. Thus, DTBN may be a novel therapeutic alternative for CKD and its complications.

Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSA) is associated with cardiovascular morbidity in adults and children. NFκB activity is enhanced in circulating monocytes of adults with OSA, that decreases following positive pressure therapy. OSA children’s serum activates NFκB in a cell line. We hypothesized that OSA children’s serum can activate NFκB in cardiomyocytes (CM) and effect their viability. In order to explore the role played by NFκB in OSA cardiovascular pathophysiology, rat, mouse and human immortalized CM were exposed to human serum drawn from OSA children and matched controls. Increased expression of NFκB classical subunits p65/p50 as well as major morphological changes occurred in cardiomyocytes following OSA’s serum exposure. OSA children’s serum induced NFκB activity as measured by p65 nuclear translocation in immortalized human CM and rat cardiomyocytes as well as dense immunostaining of the nucleus. Trypan blue and XTT assays showed that OSA sera induced CM apoptosis. We conclude that NFκB is systemically activated in cardiomyocytes, who also demonstrate decreased viability and contractility following exposure to OSA serum. It supports the hypothesis NFκB plays a role in the evolution of cardiovascular morbidity in OSA. It may support the search for new therapeutic interventions controlling NFκB activation in OSA.

Background: The authors investigated the NF-κB inhibitory role of three Benzisothiazolone (BIT) derivatives (1, 2 and 3) in Hodgkin’s Lymphoma cells (L428) which constitutively express activated NF-κB. All three compounds showed dose-dependent NF-κB inhibition (78.3, 70.7 and 34.6%) in the luciferase reporter gene assay and were found cytotoxic at IC50 values of 3.3μg/ml, 4.35μg/ml and 13.8μg/ml, respectively by the XTT assay. BIT 1and BIT 2 (but not BIT 3) suppressed both NF-κB subunits p50 and p65 in cytoplasmic and nuclear extracts in a concentration-dependent manner. Furthermore, BIT 1 showed a moderate synergistic effect with the standard chemotherapy drugs etoposide and doxorubicin, whereas BIT 2 and 3 showed a moderate additive effect to antagonistic effect. Cisplatin exhibited an antagonist effect on all the compounds tested under various concentrations, except in the case of 1.56μg/ml of BIT 3 with 0.156μg/ml of cisplatin. The compounds also inhibited the migration of adherent human lung adenocarcinoma cells (A549) in vitro. We conclude that especially BIT 1 and BIT 2 have in vitro anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer activities, which can be further investigated for future potential therapeutic use. Methods: Inspired by the electrophilic sulfur in Nuphar alkaloids, monomeric and dimeric benzisothiazolones were synthesized from dithiodibenzoic acid and their NF-κB inhibitory role was explored. NF-κB inhibition and cytotoxicity of the synthesized derivatives were studied using luciferase reporter gene assay and XTTassay. Immunocytochemistry studies were performed using L428 cells. Cell migration assay was conducted using the A549 cell line. L428 cells were used to conduct combination studies and the results were plotted using CompuSyn software. Results: Benzisothiazolone derivatives exhibited cytotoxicity in Hodgkin’s Lymphoma cells through NF-κB inhibition. Potent compounds showed suppression of both NF-κB subunits p50 and p65 in a concentrationdependent manner, both in cytoplasmic and nuclear extracts. Combination studies suggest that benzisothiazolone derivatives possess a synergistic effect with etoposide and doxorubicin. Furthermore, the compounds also inhibited the migration of A549 cells. Conclusion: Benzisothiazolones bearing one or two electrophilic sulfur atoms as part of the heterocyclic framework exhibited cytotoxicity in Hodgkin’s Lymphoma cells through NF-κB inhibition. In addition, these derivatives also exhibited a synergistic effect with etoposide and doxorubicin along with the ability to inhibit the migration of A549 cells. Our study suggests that BIT-based new chemical entities could lead to potential anticancer agents.

A number of natural products with medicinal properties increase DNA cleavage mediated by type II topoisomerases. In an effort to identify additional natural compounds that affect the activity of human type II topoisomerases, a blind screen of a library of 341 Mediterranean plant extracts was conducted. Extracts from Nuphcir lutea, the yellow water lily, were identified in this screen. N. lutea has been used in traditional medicine by a variety of indigenous populations. The active compound in N. lutea, 6,6’-dihydroxythiobinupharidine, was found to enhance DNA cleavage mediated by human topoisomerase IIα and IIβ ~8-fold and ~3-fold, respectively. Mechanistic studies with topoisomerase IIα indicate that 6,6’-dihydroxythiobinupharidine is a “covalent poison” that acts by adducting the enzyme outside of the DNA cleavage-ligation active site and requires the N-terminal domain of the protein for its activity. Results suggest that some of the medicinal properties of N. lutea may result from the interactions between 6,6’-dihydroxythiobinupharidine and the human type II enzymes.

Cardiovascular morbidity is the leading cause of death of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) syndrome patients. Nocturnal airway obstruction is associated with intermittent hypoxia (IH). In our previous work with cell lines, incubation with sera from OSA patients induced changes in cell morphology, NF-κB activation and decreased viability. A decrease in beating rate, contraction amplitude and a reduction in intracellular calcium signaling was also observed in human cardiomyocytes differentiated from human embryonic stem cells (hESC-CMs). We expanded these observations using a new controlled IH in vitro system on beating hESC-CMs. The Oxy-Cycler system was programed to generate IH cycles. Following IH, we detected the activation of Hif-1α as an indicator of hypoxia and nuclear NF-κB p65 and p50 subunits, representing pro-inflammatory activity. We also detected the secretion of inflammatory cytokines, such as MIF, PAI-1, MCP-1 and CXCL1, and demonstrated a decrease in beating rate of hESC-CMs following IH. IH induces the co-activation of inflammatory features together with cardiomyocyte alterations which are consistent with myocardial damage in OSA. This study provides an innovative approach for in vitro studies of OSA cardiovascular morbidity and supports the search for new pharmacological agents and molecular targets to improve diagnosis and treatment of patients.

Water lily (Nuphar) bioactive extracts have been widely used in traditional medicine owing to their multiple applications against human ailments. Phyto-active Nuphar extracts and their purified and synthetic derivatives have attracted the attention of ethnobotanists and biochemists. Here, we report that 6,6′-dihydroxythiobinupharidine (DTBN), purified from extracts of Nuphar lutea (L.) Sm. leaves, is an effective inhibitor of the kinase activity of members of the protein kinase C (PKC) family using in vitro and in silico approaches. We demonstrate that members of the conventional subfamily of PKCs, PKCα and PKCγ, were more sensitive to DTBN inhibition as compared to novel or atypical PKCs. Molecular docking analysis demonstrated the interaction of DTBN, with the kinase domain of PKCs depicting the best affinity towards conventional PKCs, in accordance with our in vitro kinase activity data. The current study reveals novel targets for DTBN activity, functioning as an inhibitor for PKCs kinase activity. Thus, this and other data indicate that DTBN modulates key cellular signal transduction pathways relevant to disease biology, including cancer.

Microalgae have been considered as a renewable source of nutritional, cosmetic and pharmaceutical compounds. The ability to produce health-beneficial long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFA) is of high interest. LC-PUFA and their metabolic lipid mediators, modulate key inflammatory pathways in numerous models. In particular, the metabolism of arachidonic acid under inflammatory challenge influences the immune reactivity of macrophages. However, less is known about another omega-6 LC-PUFA, dihomo-&gamma, linolenic acid (DGLA), which exhibits potent anti-inflammatory activities, which contrast with its delta-5 desaturase product, arachidonic acid (ARA). In this work, we examined whether administrating DGLA would modulate the inflammatory response in the RAW264.7 murine macrophage cell line. DGLA was applied for 24 h in the forms of carboxylic (free) acid, ethyl ester, and ethyl esters obtained from the DGLA-accumulating delta-5 desaturase mutant strain P127 of the green microalga Lobosphaera incisa. DGLA induced a dose-dependent increase in the RAW264.7 cells&rsquo, basal secretion of the prostaglandin PGE1. Upon bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimuli, the enhanced production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF&alpha, ) and interleukin 1&beta, (IL-1&beta, ), was affected little by DGLA, while interleukin 6 (IL-6), nitric oxide, and total reactive oxygen species (ROS) decreased significantly. DGLA administered at 100 &micro, M in all forms attenuated the LPS-induced expression of the key inflammatory genes in a concerted manner, in particular iNOS, IL-6, and LxR, in the form of free acid. PGE1 was the major prostaglandin detected in DGLA-supplemented culture supernatants, whose production prevailed over ARA-derived PGE2 and PGD2, which were less affected by LPS-stimulation compared with the vehicle control. An overall pattern of change indicated DGLA&rsquo, s induced alleviation of the inflammatory state. Finally, our results indicate that microalgae-derived, DGLA-enriched ethyl esters (30%) exhibited similar activities to DGLA ethyl esters, strengthening the potential of this microalga as a potent source of this rare anti-inflammatory fatty acid.

Microalgae have been considered as a renewable source of nutritional, cosmetic and pharmaceutical compounds. The ability to produce health-beneficial long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFA) is of high interest. LC-PUFA and their metabolic lipid mediators, modulate key inflammatory pathways in numerous models. In particular, the metabolism of arachidonic acid under inflammatory challenge influences the immune reactivity of macrophages. However, less is known about another omega-6 LC-PUFA, dihomo-γ-linolenic acid (DGLA), which exhibits potent anti-inflammatory activities, which contrast with its delta-5 desaturase product, arachidonic acid (ARA). In this work, we examined whether administrating DGLA would modulate the inflammatory response in the RAW264.7 murine macrophage cell line. DGLA was applied for 24 h in the forms of carboxylic (free) acid, ethyl ester, and ethyl esters obtained from the DGLA-accumulating delta-5 desaturase mutant strain P127 of the green microalga Lobosphaera incisa. DGLA induced a dose-dependent increase in the RAW264.7 cells’ basal secretion of the prostaglandin PGE1. Upon bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimuli, the enhanced production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) and interleukin 1β (IL-1β), was affected little by DGLA, while interleukin 6 (IL-6), nitric oxide, and total reactive oxygen species (ROS) decreased significantly. DGLA administered at 100 µM in all forms attenuated the LPS-induced expression of the key inflammatory genes in a concerted manner, in particular iNOS, IL-6, and LxR, in the form of free acid. PGE1 was the major prostaglandin detected in DGLA-supplemented culture supernatants, whose production prevailed over ARA-derived PGE2 and PGD2, which were less affected by LPS-stimulation compared with the vehicle control. An overall pattern of change indicated DGLA’s induced alleviation of the inflammatory state. Finally, our results indicate that microalgae-derived, DGLA-enriched ethyl esters (30%) exhibited similar activities to DGLA ethyl esters, strengthening the potential of this microalga as a potent source of this rare anti-inflammatory fatty acid.

Different parts of Nuphar lutea L. (yellow water lily) have been used to treat several inflammatory and pathogen-related diseases. It has shown that Nuphar lutea extracts (NUP) are active against various pathogens including bacteria, fungi, and leishmanial parasites. In an effort to detect novel therapeutic agents against negative-stranded RNA (- RNA) viruses, we have tested the effect of a partially-purified alkaloid mixture of Nuphar lutea leaves on the measles virus (MV). The MV vaccine&rsquo, s Edmonston strain was used to acutely or persistently infect cells. The levels of several MV proteins were detected by a Western blot and immunocytochemistry. Viral RNAs were quantitated by qRT-PCR. Virus infectivity was monitored by infecting African green monkey kidney VERO cells&rsquo, monolayers. We showed that NUP protected cells from acute infection. Decreases in the MV P-, N-, and V-proteins were observed in persistently infected cells and the amount of infective virus released was reduced as compared to untreated cells. By examining viral RNAs, we suggest that NUP acts at the post-transcriptional level. We conclude, as a proof of concept, that NUP has anti-viral therapeutic activity against the MV. Future studies will determine the mechanism of action and the effect of NUP on other related viruses.

The significance of lymphangiogenesis in malignant tumors and specifically in classic Hodgkin lymphoma has not been properly evaluated, in contrast with that of angiogenesis in these neoplasms. In the study reviewed herein, the relevance of lymphatic vessel proliferation was explored in 19 cases of classic Hodgkin lymphoma stained with the D2-40 (anti-podoplanin) antibody. In each case, three lymphatic vessel hot spots were analyzed twice. Of the 57 hot spots thus investigated, 15 were chosen at random for image acquisition and analysis and microvessel counting. The mean perimeter, major axis length, surface area and complexity factor for each hot spot were established by morphometry, and associations with clinical and laboratory traits of classic Hodgkin lymphoma were identified. No relationships were found with the clinical features or immunostaining for typical markers of this lymphoma. However, significant inverse relations were found with BAX, pRb and IκB-α expression in tumor cells, genes believed to play roles in apoptosis in this lymphoma. The mean lymphatic major axis length was inversely correlated with the complexity factor. Clinicopathological associations were further obtained for the expression of BAX, pRb, and IκB-α in a large cohort of classic Hodgkin lymphoma patients that was previously published. Since the issue was poorly explored at this point, we have reviewed the significance of lymphangiogenesis in indirectly associated conditions.

Objectives Nupharidine (6,6'-Dihydroxythiobinupharidine), purified from the aquatic plant Nuphar lutea leaves (Water lily) prompts antimicrobial activity of immune cells. The aim of the study was to test the effect of Nupharidine on neutrophil function against Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, JP2 clone (Aa-JP2). Methods Neutrophils derived from the human cell line HL60 and human peripheral blood derived from aggressive periodontitis and periodontally healthy subjects were incubated with Nupharidine or vehicle and inoculated with JP2. Bacterial survival was tested using viable counts on blood agar (CFU's). Neutrophils' necrosis/apoptosis, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, phagocytosis and neutrophil extracellular traps (NET) production following infection were tested, as well as markers of neutrophil priming. Results Nupharidine had no direct bactericidal effect on JP2, but it enhanced Aa-JP2 clearance by neutrophils. Nupharidine enhanced neutrophil phagocytosis, ROS production and NET formation during JP2 infection. Furthermore, Nupharidine enhanced the expression of certain markers of neutrophils priming, specifically iCAM1, DECTIN-2 and intracellular IL-1β. Conclusion Nupharidine was shown to promote neutrophil effector bactericidal functions, boosting Aa-JP2 clearance. The results point to the potential of Nupharidine as an adjunctive agent in the treatment of Aa-JP2 periodontitis, but this should be tested initially using pre-clinical and clinical studies.

In this study, we found that the measles virus (MV) can infect human-induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs). Wild-type MV strains generally use human signaling lymphocyte activation molecule (SLAM; CD150) as a cellular receptor, while vaccine strains such as the Edmonston strain can use both CD150 and CD46 as receptors. It is not yet known how early in the embryonal differentiation stages these receptors are expressed. We established two hiPSCs (BGU-iPSCs and EMF-iPSCs) which express CD46 and CD150. Both cell types can be infected by MV to form persistent, noncytopathic cell lines that release infectious MV particles. Following MV persistent infection, BGU-iPSCs and EMF-iPSCs remain pluripotent and can differentiate in vitro into the three germ layers. This includes cells expressing the neuronal differentiation markers: NF68 and miRNA-124. Since the MV does not integrate into the cell's genome, it can be utilized as a vehicle to systematically introduce genes into iPSC, to dissect and to define factors regulating lineage differentiation.

Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) patients suffer from cardiovascular morbidity, which is the leading cause of death in this disease. Based on our previous work with transformed cell lines and primary rat cardiomyocytes, we determined that upon incubation with sera from pediatric OSAS patients, the cell’s morphology changes, NF-κB pathway is activated, and their beating rate and viability decreases. These results suggest an important link between OSAS, systemic inflammatory signals and end-organ cardiovascular diseases. In this work, we confirmed and expanded these observations on a new in vitro system of beating human cardiomyocytes (CM) differentiated from human embryonic stem cells (hES). Our results show that incubation with pediatric OSAS sera, in contrast to sera from healthy children, induces over-expression of NF-κB p50 and p65 subunits, marked reduction in CMs beating rate, contraction amplitude and a strong reduction in intracellular calcium signal. The use of human CM cells derived from embryonic stem cells has not been previously reported in OSAS research. The results further support the hypothesis that NF-κB dependent inflammatory pathways play an important role in the evolution of cardiovascular morbidity in OSAS. This study uncovers a new model to investigate molecular and functional aspects of cardiovascular pathology in OSAS.

The specificity of inhibition by 6,6′-dihydroxythiobinupharidine (DTBN) on cysteine proteases was demonstrated in this work. There were differences in the extent of inhibition, reflecting active site structural-steric and biochemical differences. Cathepsin S (IC50 = 3.2 μM) was most sensitive to inhibition by DTBN compared to Cathepsin B, L and papain (IC50 = 1359.4, 13.2 and 70.4 μM respectively). DTBN is inactive for the inhibition of Mpro of SARS-CoV-2. Docking simulations suggested a mechanism of interaction that was further supported by the biochemical results. In the docking results, it was shown that the cysteine sulphur of Cathepsin S, L and B was in close proximity to the DTBN thiaspirane ring, potentially forming the necessary conditions for a nucleophilic attack to form a disulfide bond. Covalent docking and molecular dynamic simulations were performed to validate disulfide bond formation and to determine the stability of Cathepsins-DTBN complexes, respectively. The lack of reactivity of DTBN against SARS-CoV-2 Mpro was attributed to a mismatch of the binding conformation of DTBN to the catalytic binding site of Mpro. Thus, gradations in reactivity among the tested Cathepsins may be conducive for a mechanism-based search for derivatives of nupharidine against COVID-19. This could be an alternative strategy to the large-scale screening of electrophilic inhibitors.

Bacterial communication, termed Quorum Sensing (QS), is a promising target for virulence attenuation and the treatment of bacterial infections. Infections cause inflammation, a process regulated by a number of cellular factors, including the transcription Nuclear Factor kappa B (NF-κB), this factor is found to be upregulated in many inflammatory diseases, including those induced by bacterial infection. In this study, we tested 32 synthetic derivatives of coumaperine (CP), a known natural compound found in pepper (Piper nigrum), for Quorum Sensing Inhibition (QSI) and NF-κB inhibitory activities. Of the compounds tested, seven were found to have high QSI activity, three inhibited bacterial growth and five inhibited NF-κB. In addition, some of the CP compounds were active in more than one test. For example, compounds CP-286, CP-215 and CP-158 were not cytotoxic, inhibited NF-κB activation and QS but did not show antibacterial activity. CP-154 inhibited QS, decreased NF-κB activation and inhibited bacterial growth. Our results indicate that these synthetic molecules may provide a basis for further development of novel therapeutic agents against bacterial infections.

A role for lymphangiogenesis in metastatic breast and prostate cancers has been suggested recently. The relevance of lymphangiogenesis in cancer as a rule, and more specifically in classical Hodgkin lymphoma, is poorly understood in comparison with that of angiogenesis. In a preliminary (pilot) study we have investigated the role of lymphatic vessels growth in 19 cases of classical Hodgkin lymphoma stained with the D2-40 (podoplanin) antibody. In each case, three lymphatic vessels hot spots were scrutinized twice. Of the 57 hot spots thus identified, we chose 15 at random for photography, microvessel counting and image analysis. We determined the mean perimeter, surface area, major axis length and complexity factor for each hot spot and correlated them with clinical and biological features of classical Hodgkin lymphoma. No correlations were found with clinical features. No associations were noted with the standard immuno-markers of classical Hodgkin lymphoma. However, significant inverse correlations were shown with pRb, BAX and IκB-α expression. The mean lymphatic major axis length was inversely correlated with the complexity factor. Last, we carried out an additional clinicopathological correlation of the expression of pRb, BAX and IκB-α in a cohort of classical Hodgkin lymphoma patients previously published.

Ovarian cancer (OC) is the second most common type of gynecological malignancy, it has poor survival rates and is frequently (&gt, 75%) diagnosed at an advanced stage. Platinum-based chemotherapy, with, e.g., carboplatin, is the standard of care for OC, but toxicity and acquired resistance to therapy have proven challenging. Despite advances in OC diagnosis and treatment, approximately 85% of patients will experience relapse, mainly due to chemoresistance. The latter is attributed to alterations in the cancer cells and is also mediated by tumor microenvironment (TME). Recently, we reported the synthesis of a platinum (IV) prodrug that exhibits equal potency toward platinum-sensitive and resistant OC cell lines. Here, we investigated the effect of TME on platinum sensitivity. Co-culture of OC cells with murine or human mesenchymal stem cells (MS-5 and HS-5, respectively) rendered them resistant to chemotherapeutic agents, including platinum, paclitaxel and colchicine. Platinum resistance was also conferred by co-culture with differentiated murine adipocyte progenitor cells. Exposure of OC cells to chemotherapeutic agents resulted in activation of phospho-ERK1/2. Co-culture with MS-5, which conferred drug resistance, was accompanied by blockage of phospho-ERK1/2 activation. The flavonoids fisetin and quercetin were active in restoring ERK phosphorylation, as well as sensitivity to platinum compounds. Exposure of OC cells to cobimetinib&mdash, a MEK1 inhibitor that also inhibits extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) phosphorylation&mdash, which resulted in reduced sensitivity to the platinum compound. This suggests that ERK activity is involved in mediating the function of flavonoids in restoring platinum sensitivity to OC co-cultured with cellular components of the TME. Our data show the potential of combining flavonoids with standard therapy to restore drug sensitivity to OC cells and overcome TME-mediated platinum drug resistance.

Introduction There are cardiovascular morbid effects of OSA in adults and children. We have previously reported over-expression of Nuclear-Factor-κappa B in tonsils of children with OSA, and NF-κB activation after exposure to sera of children with OSA. In order to investigate NF-kB activation and the physiology of cardiomyocytes of human origin (CM’s), we have established an ex-vivo model where CM’s derived from human embryonic stem cells H-9.1 clone (hES) and from Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) are either incubated with human sera, or exposed to intermittent hypoxia(IH) or room air (RA). Methods Serum samples were drawn following overnight polysomnography (PSG) from children with OSA (AHI>5) or control (AHI Results 1. Cell beating/min was reduced in cells incubated with OSA (n=10) as compared to control (n=10);(p Conclusion We revealed human cardiomyocytes NF-kB activation and decreased contractility following exposure to OSA sera and to IH. The rapid decrease in calcium signaling and contractility infer the presence of factors that reversibly affects CMs contraction. This ex-vivo model enables the study of functional and molecular alterations in human CM Support Israel science Foundation (ISF) 1344/15

Jacob Gopas,1,2 Amir Abd EL Qader,3 Carol Isaacson,4 David Eichler,5 Yehuda Zeiri3,6 1The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Genetics, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, 2The Department of Oncology, Soroka University Medical Center, Beer-Sheva, Israel; 3Biomedical Engineering, Ben-Gurion University, Beer-Sheva, Israel; 4Jerry J. Cohen Radiobiology Research Laboratory, Ben Gurion University,Beer Sheva, Israel; 5Physics Department, Ben-Gurion University, Beer-Sheva, Israel; 6Chemistry Division, Nuclear Research Center Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel Background: Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in urine may provide information about biomarkers of tumors in their early stages and about tumor growth. Methods: This study demonstrates that the effect of low protein diet on the pattern of VOCs in the urine of healthy and cancer bearing mice is significant. Results: Pentanal, found in nine out of the ten breast cancer-bearing mice on a high protein (HP) diet, was not found in any of the cancer bearing mice under a low protein (LP) diet, even after tumor development. In addition, the concentration of 3-heptanone, also elevated in the HP group, was not found in the LP group. Benzoic acid, 4-ethoxy-, ethyl ester, 2-pentanone, and propane, 1-isothiocyanato-3-(methylthio), all associated with anti-cancer properties or activity, were observed in the LP group, but not in the HP group. 6-methyl-3-heptanone exhibited a marked increase in concentration as a function of tumor growth when mice were maintained on an HP diet; however, its concentration exhibited no change in mice on the LP diet. The LP group showed much better survival, and even spontaneous recovery from cancer. Conclusion: Our results give an insight into the effects of an LP diet on the management of breast cancer and melanoma. While other research groups focus on improving the relative rates of efficacy and accuracy of cancer biopsy results, this study attempted to monitor the initial appearance of cancer by VOCs excreted in urine that may be associated with metabolic and other physiological changes associated with tumor development, and with a diet that inhibits such development. Keywords: mouse urine composition, breast cancer, melanoma, cancer biomarkers, low protein diet

Melanoma is the most malignant type of skin cancer. Early detection of melanoma is thus critical for patient prognosis and survival. At present, examination by a skilled dermatologist followed by biopsy of suspicious lesions is the diagnostic gold standard. The aim of the present study was to examine an alternative and noninvasive method for the diagnosis of melanoma at an early stage. We identified and compared the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in mouse urine and feces, before and after a subcutaneous injection of B16 melanoma cells. We identified a total of 16 VOCs in urine and 13 VOCs in feces that could serve as potential biomarkers. Statistical analysis significantly discriminated between the cancer and control groups. These results should be validated in a larger-scale animal study, after which a study could be designed in patients to develop a melanoma biomarker.

Ethnopharmacological relevance Various plant organs of Nuphar lutea (L.) SM. (Nymphaeaceae) are used in traditional medicine for the treatment of arthritis, fever, aches, pains and inflammation. The main purpose of this study was to determine the anti-inflammatory effect of Nuphar lutea leaf extract (NUP) in two septic shock models: (1) Survival of mice challenged with a lethal dose of LPS, determination of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines in serum, as well as in peritoneal macrophages in cell culture. (2) The effect of NUP in a murine model of fecal-induced peritonitis. Materials and methods NUP pre-treatment partially protected mice in two models of acute septic shock. We concluded that NUP is anti-inflammatory by inhibiting the NF-κB pathway, modulating cytokine production and ERK phosphorylation. Results A significant average survival rate (60%) of LPS lethally-challenged mice was achieved by pre-treatment with NUP. In addition, NUP pre-treatment reduced nuclear NF-κB translocation in peritoneal macrophages. The production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-12, in the sera of LPS-treated mice or in the supernatants of peritoneal macrophages stimulated with LPS for 2–6 h was also decreased by NUP. Pre-treatment with NUP caused a significant increase in the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. The NUP pre-treatment reduced and delayed mortality in mice with fecal-induced peritonitis. Our studies also revealed that NUP pre-treatment induced a dose-dependent phosphorylation of ERK in peritoneal macrophages. Since most of the reports about the anti-inflammatory effect of Nuphar lutea refer to rhizome and root powder and extracts, it is important to clarify the effectiveness of leaf extract as a source for such activity. Conclusion NUP pre-treatment partially protected mice in two models of acute septic shock. We concluded that NUP is anti-inflammatory by inhibiting the NF-κB pathway, modulating cytokine production and ERK phosphorylation.

Many viruses can establish non-cytolytic, chronic infections in host cells. Beyond the intrinsically interesting questions of how this long-term parasitism is achieved, persistently infected cells can be useful to study virus-host interactions. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of noncoding RNAs transcribed from the genomes of all multicellular organisms and some viruses. Individual miRNAs may regulate several hundred genes. In this research we have studied the expression of a selective group of host-cell encoded miRNAs, as expressed in a Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) persistently infected HEp-2 cell line (HEp-2 + RSV-GFP). The RSV is a virus that does not encode miRNAs in its genome. Our study shows that Dicer is down regulated, miRNA’s 146a-5p is strongly up-regulated and miRNAs 345-5p, let-7c-5p and miRNA’s-221 are down-regulated in HEp-2 + RSV-GFP cells. Correspondingly, changes in the miRNA 146a-5p and he sequences of the reference genes are miRNA 345-5p respective miRNAs target proteins: HSP-70 and p21, were observed. Thus, RSV persistent viral infection induces unique patterns of miRNA’s expression with relevance to how the virus regulates the host cell response to infection.

Measles virus (MV) infects a variety of lymphoid and non-lymphoid peripheral organs. However, in rare cases, the virus can persistently infect cells within the central nervous system. Although some of the factors that allow MV to persist are known, the contribution of host cell-encoded microRNAs (miRNA) have not been described. MiRNAs are a class of noncoding RNAs transcribed from genomes of all multicellular organisms and some viruses, which regulate gene expression in a sequence-specific manner. We have studied the contribution of host cell-encoded miRNAs to the establishment of MV persistent infection in human neuroblastoma cells. Persistent MV infection was accompanied by differences in the expression profile and levels of several host cell-encoded microRNAs as compared to uninfected cells. MV persistence infection of a human neuroblastoma cell line (UKF-NB-MV), exhibit high miRNA-124 expression, and reduced expression of cyclin dependent kinase 6 (CDK6), a known target of miRNA-124, resulting in slower cell division but not cell death. By contrast, acute MV infection of UKF-NB cells did not result in increased miRNA-124 levels or CDK6 reduction. Ectopic overexpression of miRNA-124 affected cell viability only in UKF-NB-MV cells, causing cell death; implying that miRNA-124 over expression can sensitize cells to death only in the presence of MV persistent infection. To determine if miRNA-124 directly contributes to the establishment of MV persistence, UKF-NB cells overexpressing miRNA-124 were acutely infected, resulting in establishment of persistently infected colonies. We propose that miRNA-124 triggers a CDK6-dependent decrease in cell proliferation, which facilitates the establishment of MV persistence in neuroblastoma cells. To our knowledge, this is the first report to describe the role of a specific miRNA in MV persistence.

In recent years it has become evident that bacteria can modulate signaling pathways in host cells through the secretion of small signaling molecules. We have evaluated the cytotoxic effects and NF-κB inhibitory activities of a panel of quorum sensing molecules and their reactive analogs on Hodgkin's lymphoma cells (L428). We found that several molecules inhibited NF-κB signaling in a dose dependent manner. Three inhibitors (ITC-12, ITC-Cl and Br-Furanone) showed 50% NF-κB inhibition at concentrations less than 10 µM (4.1 µM, 12.8 µM and 9.9 µM, respectively). Furthermore, all three molecules displayed cytotoxic effects against L428 cells with IC50 values of 12.4 µM, 18.3 µM and 3.1 µM respectively after 48 h incubation. They also showed inhibition of A549 adenocarcinoma cell migration at low concentrations 5.6 µM, 2.6 µM and 7.9 µM respectively. Further analysis showed that these molecules significantly decrease the degree of expression of proteins of NF-κB subunits p50, p65 and RelB both in cytosolic and nuclear fractions. This confirms that these compounds have the potential to modulate the NF-κB pathway by suppressing their subunits and thus exhibit cytotoxicity and inactivation of NF-κB signaling in Hodgkin's lymphoma cells.

An association between the measles virus and classical Hodgkin lymphoma has previously been suggested by us. This has been refuted by two European groups. A reevaluation of the arguments held against our thesis was carried out and further evidence for a relationship between the measles virus and additional solid tumors has been presented. We have suggested a molecular mechanism to support a possible contribution of the virus to carcinogenesis in classical Hodgkin lymphoma.

Plant secondary metabolites (natural products) have been a source for many of our medicines. Their functions in plants remain often unknown, but in recent years there are more and more new compounds isolated and identified and their medicinal potential investigated. The major classes of plant natural products and various derivatives thereof are: phenolics, terpenoids, alkaloids and lignans. The major transcription factor, nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) is a central downstream regulator of inflammation, cell proliferation and apoptosis that controls the expression of more than 500 genes. It plays an essential role in several aspects of human health including the development of innate and adaptive immunity. The deregulation of NF-κB is associated with many ailments including cancer and chronic inflammatory diseases. In spite of a vast literature describing NF-κB inhibitors from many natural or synthetic sources, such modulators have not been fully tapped for therapeutic purposes and the search for effective and specific inhibitors for therapeutic use and minimal side effects is still relevant and ongoing. Plant-derived phytochemicals are promising lead compounds to develop potent and safe inhibitors for cancer and inflammatory disorders driven by NF-κB. We briefly review the recent knowledge on plant derived phytochemicals and their major NF-κB molecular targets.

We recognized a few possible complications of classical Hodgkin lymphoma therapy in a cohort of 209 patients: 8 developed a primary refractory disease (primary progression), 36 showed an early relapse and 21 showed a late relapse. Sialyl-CD15 expression in Hodgkin-Reed-Sternberg cells was significantly more positive in primary refractory Hodgkin lymphoma, which confirms our previously published findings. Bcl-2 showed a significantly lower level of expression in primary refractory disease than in the other follow-up groups. This is in contrast with a previous finding of Bcl-2, associated with a poor prognosis in primary refractory illness. Another category of variables, old age and advanced stages, was significantly different in the various complications but this finding is probably to be expected. We could not demonstrate a difference between the sequels and the control group with regard to several clinical and immunohistochemical markers. Sialyl-CD15 and Bcl-2 expression, in contrast, were confirmed as prognostic factors, mainly of tumor progression into primary refractory disease.

Here we report the effect of a partially purified alkaloid fraction (NUP) of Nuphar lutea on nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) expression and studied its mechanism of toxicity against Leishmania major in C3H mice peritoneal macrophages. NUP was found to be a mixture of thermo-stable dimeric sesquiterpene thioalkaloids containing mainly thionupharidines. The anti-leishmanial activity was shown to be mediated through the activation of NF-κB and increased iNOS production. Additionally, the nitric oxide inhibitor, N G -monomethyl- l -arginine (0.5 mM) totally reverted the anti-leishmanial effect of NUP (0.25 and 0.5 μg/ml). NUP was also shown to act as an anti-oxidant, almost completely inhibiting the macrophage respiratory burst activity. However, no elevated lysozyme (EC3.2.1.17) or β-galactosidase (EC3.2.1.23) activities were demonstrated in macrophages treated with NUP. This study suggests, that the activity of NUP is mediated by NF-κB activation and the production of nitric oxide which is dependent on the l -arginine:NO pathway.

We scrutinized the role of apoptosis of the Hodgkin-Reed-Sternberg (HRS) cells in classical Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL) and critically reviewed its features in the light of conflicting evidence. In this study, we found that tumor cells in this neoplasm showed inhibition of apoptosis in 55% of the 217 cHL cases only. It is also suggested that the two factors considered responsible for apoptosis inhibition in HRS cells, nuclear factor-kappaB and the latent membrane protein-1 of the Epstein-Barr virus, do not correlate with apoptosis inhibition, in contrast with the findings in the consensual pathogenetic scheme. The most significant association of HRS cell apoptosis was with p53, the negative expression of which related with a high apoptotic index (p = 0.001). These findings support our contention that the role of apoptosis in the HRS cells of Hodgkin lymphoma has not been completely elucidated and is at variance with that in the consensus.

O(6)-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT), is a DNA repair enzyme that recognizes O(6)-alkylated guanine, a base analog resulting from treatment with alkylating agents. O(6)-6-thioguanine (6-TG) is used clinically to treat malignant as well as inflammatory diseases. Although MGMT participates in resistance to alkylating agents, it has not been shown to be involved in resistance of tumors to 6-TG. In this study we used a human melanoma cell line (GA) and its selected 6-TG drug resistant variant (GA-6-TG) to investigate whether MGMT plays a role in determining the drug resistant phenotype of GA-6-TG cells. We showed that GA-6-TG resistant cells express about three fold more MGMT protein and mRNA than GA cells. Treatment with 6-TG diminishes significantly MGMT amounts in both cell lines. Increased amounts of MGMT in resistant cells, are consistent with hypermethylation of the MGMT gene coding-region. Pretreatment of cells with the MGMT inhibitor O6 benzyl guanine, resulted in sensitization of GA-6-TG cells to 6-TG. Taken together, our data suggests that MGMT is associated with 6-TG drug resistance. In analogy to patients treated with alkylating agents, patients with tumors containing increased MGMT amounts, may be more resistant to 6-TG and therefore may benefit from treatment with MGMT inhibitors.

In recent years the frequency of nonsmokers among lung cancer patients has increased to 10% to 15%. The measles virus has rarely been evoked as an etiological agent in malignant tumors and its role in carcinogenesis remains doubtful. It has been suggested that measles virus phosphoprotein may inhibit ubiquitination of Pirh2, which has been reported to be overexpressed in lung carcinoma and is responsible for degrading the cell cycle regulator p53. The authors conducted a clinicopathological study of newly diagnosed patients with non-small cell lung carcinoma of all stages seen in a 10-year period. Immunohistochemical studies for measles virus antigens, p53, and Pirh2 were performed using the avidin-biotin peroxidase complex. The authors found expression of measles virus antigens in 54 of 65 cases of non-small cell lung carcinoma. This finding is associated with the older age of the patients and with expression of Pirh2. The presence of Pirh2 itself was associated with improved survival.

Several anti-leishmanial drugs of choice are of plant origin. Many of the available drugs against the disease are toxic and in certain cases parasite drug resistance is developed. The development of new compounds is urgently required. Aims of the study To determine the leishmanicidal activity of the Nuphar lutea plant extract against Leishmania major in vitro. Materials and methods The leishmanicidal activity of methanolic plant extract against L. major free living promastigotes and intracellular amastigotes was evaluated, using microscopic examinations and the enzymatic XTT assay. Results Methanolic extract of N. lutea was highly effective against both Leishmania promastigotes and L. amastigotes (IC50=2±0.12 μg/ml; ID50=0.65±0.023 μg/ml; LD50=2.1±0.096 μg/ml, STI=3.23). The extract at 1.25 μg/ml totally eliminated the intracellular parasites within 3 days of treatment. Also, a synergistic anti-leishmanial activity was demonstrated with N. lutea extract combined with the anti-leishmanial drug – paromomycin. The partially purified N. lutea active component was found to be a thermo-stable alkaloid(s) with no electrical charge and is resistant to boiling and to methanol, dichloromethane and xylene treatment. Conclusions The present study suggests that N. lutea might be a potential source of anti-leishmanial compounds.