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Integrated Transcriptomic and Functional Profiling Reveals IL-7R/FOXO1 Axis as a Target of Momordicine I in

Ying Kao1,2,3,4, Jia-Rong Hu5, Fu-Chi Yang5,6

  • 1Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, Taipei City Hospital Zhongxing Branch, Taipei, 10341, Taiwan.

Anti-Cancer Agents in Medicinal Chemistry
|August 24, 2026
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Momordicine I, derived from bitter melon, effectively inhibits meningioma growth by inducing apoptosis and disrupting cell survival pathways. This study highlights its potential as a novel therapeutic for meningioma treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Natural Products Chemistry
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • Meningiomas are common brain tumors with limited chemotherapy options.
  • Momordicine I, a bitter melon triterpenoid, shows anticancer promise.
  • Its efficacy against meningiomas requires investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the anti-meningioma effects of Momordicine I.
  • To elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying its action.

Main Methods:

  • Human meningioma cells were treated with Momordicine I.
  • Assessed cell viability, colony formation, migration, apoptosis, and cell cycle.
  • Utilized RNA sequencing, qRT-PCR, Western blotting, and Seahorse analysis.

Main Results:

  • Momordicine I suppressed proliferation, colony formation, and migration.
  • Induced apoptosis and G1/G2-M phase arrest.
  • Downregulated IL7R, FOXO1, and PLK2; impaired mitochondrial respiration.

Conclusions:

  • Momordicine I exhibits anti-meningioma activity via multiple pathways.
  • Targets IL7R/FOXO1 axis, induces apoptosis, and disrupts mitochondrial metabolism.
  • Shows potential as a novel therapeutic for meningioma.
Keywords:
FOXO1IL7RMomordicine IPLK2apoptosismeningiomaoxidative phosphorylationtranscriptomic analysis

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