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Natural Source of Drugs Targeting Central Nervous System Tumors-Focus on NAD(P)H Oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1) Activity
Nikola M Stojanovic1, Milica Mitić2,3, Jovan Ilić3,4
1Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Niš, 18000 Niš, Serbia.
Abstract:
Central nervous system (CNS) tumors involve a large and diverse group of malignancies that arise from various cell types within the brain tissue. Although there are advances in treatments, CNS tumors still remain challenging, due to their complex biology and the delicate nature of the surrounding tissue. NAD(P)H O=oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1) is an enzyme that plays a critical role in the detoxification of quinones, protecting cells from oxidative stress. In CNS tumors this enzyme is often overexpressed, which contributes to the resistance of tumor cells to chemotherapy by enhancing their antioxidant defenses. NQO1 influences the progression of CNS tumors by affecting downstream signaling pathways, such as those involving the transcription factor SNAIL, as well as others that are associated with tumor behavior. Plants represent a valuable source of numerous constituents with different chemical structures known to affect different molecular signaling pathways associated with different pathologies.
Insights
Central nervous system (CNS) tumors are challenging due to complex biology. Overexpressed NAD(P)H O=oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1) in CNS tumors enhances chemoresistance, but plant compounds may offer new therapeutic avenues.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Biochemistry
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Central nervous system (CNS) tumors are diverse and challenging malignancies.
- NAD(P)H O=oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1) is crucial for cellular detoxification and antioxidant defense.
- NQO1 overexpression in CNS tumors contributes to chemotherapy resistance by bolstering antioxidant defenses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of NQO1 in CNS tumor progression and chemoresistance.
- To explore the potential of plant-derived compounds in modulating NQO1 activity or related pathways.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of NQO1 expression in CNS tumor tissues.
- Investigating the impact of NQO1 on downstream signaling pathways (e.g., SNAIL).
- Screening plant constituents for their effects on NQO1 activity and tumor cell behavior.
Main Results:
- NQO1 is frequently overexpressed in CNS tumors, correlating with enhanced antioxidant capacity.
- NQO1 influences tumor progression through signaling pathways like SNAIL.
- Plant-derived compounds show potential in targeting NQO1-associated pathways.
Conclusions:
- NQO1 is a key factor in CNS tumor chemoresistance and progression.
- Targeting NQO1 or its associated pathways presents a potential therapeutic strategy.
- Plant-derived compounds offer a promising source for novel CNS tumor therapeutics.
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