To improve the corneal permeability and water-solubility of disulfiram(DSF), which is an ocular drug for cataract, P188 was selected as a matrix to prepare solid dispersion of DSF(DSF SD) by hot melt method. The DSF S...To improve the corneal permeability and water-solubility of disulfiram(DSF), which is an ocular drug for cataract, P188 was selected as a matrix to prepare solid dispersion of DSF(DSF SD) by hot melt method. The DSF SD was characterized by DSC, XRD, and IR, and the results suggested that DSF was amorphous in DSF SD. The DSF SD was added to borate buffer solution(BBS) contained 20% poloxamer P407 and 1.2% poloxamer P188 to form in-situ gel. In vitro and in vivo experiments revealed that DSF SD combined with in-situ gel(DSF SD/in-situ gel) increased the residence time and the amount of DSF penetrated through the corneal. The pharmacodynamics studies exhibited DSF SD/in-situ gel delayed the development of selenium-induced cataract at some content. These results investigated that DSF SD/in-situ gel as a drug delivery system can improve DSF ocular permeability.展开更多
Various therapeutic strategies have been developed to overcome ovarian cancer.However,the prognoses resulting from these strategies are still unclear.In the present work,we screened 54 small molecule compounds approve...Various therapeutic strategies have been developed to overcome ovarian cancer.However,the prognoses resulting from these strategies are still unclear.In the present work,we screened 54 small molecule compounds approved by the FDA to identify novel agents that could inhibit the viability of human epithelial ovarian cancer cells.Among these,we identified disulfiram(DSF),an old alcohol-abuse drug,as a potential inducer of cell death in ovarian cancer.Mechanistically,DSF treatment significantly reduced the expression of the anti-apoptosis marker Bcell lymphoma/leukemia-2(Bcl-2)and increase the expression of the apoptotic molecules Bcl2 associated X(Bax)and cleaved caspase-3 to promote human epithelial ovarian cancer cell apoptosis.Furthermore,DSF is a newly identified effective copper ionophore,thus the combination of DSF and copper was used to reduce ovarian cancer viability than DSF single treatment.Combination treatment with DSF and copper also led to the reduced expression of ferredoxin 1 and loss of Fe-S cluster proteins(biomarkers of cuproptosis).In vivo,DSF and copper gluconate significantly decreased the tumor volume and increased the survival rate in a murine ovarian cancer xenograft model.Thus,the role of DSF revealed its potential for used as a viable therapeutic agent for the ovarian cancer.展开更多
Disulfiram and calcium carbimide are two alcohol deterrants widely used in alcoholism treatment, however, there exist great concerns over their safety. Reports on hepatotoxicity, mainly related to disulfiram therapy, ...Disulfiram and calcium carbimide are two alcohol deterrants widely used in alcoholism treatment, however, there exist great concerns over their safety. Reports on hepatotoxicity, mainly related to disulfiram therapy, have been published. The hepatotoxic potential of calcium carbimide is less well characterized. Here, we describe four cases of liver damage related to this therapeutic group that were submitted to a Registry of hepatotoxicity and point out the limitations that we face when prescribing these compounds. A reassessment of the role of these compounds in the management of alcohol dependence is clearly needed.展开更多
A series of chemotherapeutic drugs that induce DNA damage,such as cisplatin(DDP),are standard clinical treatments for ovarian cancer,testicular cancer,and other diseases that lack effective targeted drug therapy.Drug ...A series of chemotherapeutic drugs that induce DNA damage,such as cisplatin(DDP),are standard clinical treatments for ovarian cancer,testicular cancer,and other diseases that lack effective targeted drug therapy.Drug resistance is one of the main factors limiting their application.Sensitizers can overcome the drug resistance of tumor cells,thereby enhancing the antitumor activity of chemotherapeutic drugs.In this study,we aimed to identify marketable drugs that could be potential chemotherapy sensitizers and explore the underlying mechanisms.We found that the alcohol withdrawal drug disulfiram(DSF)could significantly enhance the antitumor activity of DDP.JC-1 staining,propidium iodide(PI)staining,and western blotting confirmed that the combination of DSF and DDP could enhance the apoptosis of tumor cells.Subsequent RNA sequencing combined with Gene Set Enrichment Analysis(GSEA)pathway enrichment analysis and cell biology studies such as immunofluorescence suggested an underlying mechanism:DSF makes cells more vulnerable to DNA damage by inhibiting the Fanconi anemia(FA)repair pathway,exerting a sensitizing effect to DNA damaging agents including platinum chemotherapy drugs.Thus,our study illustrated the potential mechanism of action of DSF in enhancing the antitumor effect of DDP.This might provide an effective and safe solution for combating DDP resistance in clinical treatment.展开更多
Disulfiram remains a viable option as a treatment for alcohol dependence and has been shown in recent studies to be successful in treating patients with alcohol dependence in a manner that is superior to both naltrexo...Disulfiram remains a viable option as a treatment for alcohol dependence and has been shown in recent studies to be successful in treating patients with alcohol dependence in a manner that is superior to both naltrexone and acamprosate. It is also useful in dual diagnosis patients and those with co-morbid cocaine and alcohol dependence. Although disulfiram’s mechanism of action in alcohol dependence was long thought to be its effects as a psychological deterrent, more recent studies have uncovered potential anticraving effects as well. Recent reviews exhort to the importance of supervised disulfiram therapy in highlighting many of the potential and unique benefits of disulfiram. The present article will review the major clinical trials of disulfiram spanning nearly 60 years. It also discusses the usage of disulfiram across diverse populations along with monitoring for compliance and various adverse effects that may be encountered. The paper also reviews certain studies on long acting disulfiram therapy, recent comparative trials of disulfiram and its use in alcohol dependence. The review concludes with the role of disulfiram in the present day and long-term pharmacotherapy of alcohol dependence along with future research needs in this area.展开更多
Objective: Aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) enzymatic activity identifies ovarian cancer stem-like cells. We investigated the antineoplastic activity of the ALDH inhibitor Disulfiram on bulk ovarian cancer cells and CD13...Objective: Aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) enzymatic activity identifies ovarian cancer stem-like cells. We investigated the antineoplastic activity of the ALDH inhibitor Disulfiram on bulk ovarian cancer cells and CD133+/ALDH+ cancer stem-like cells. Study Design: Ovarian cancer cell lines, human ovarian surface epithelial cells, and mesenchymal stem cells were treated with increasing concentrations of Disulfiram and/or Cisplatin in vitro. Treated cells were assessed for viability or FACS-analyzed for either percentage of ovarian cancer stem-like cells or induction of apoptosis. Disulfiram’s impact on cancer stem-like cells was tested in vitro using tumor sphere formation assays and in vivo using tumor initiation assays with in vitro-treated A2780 cells in NSG mice. Finally, Disulfiram’s in vivo activity was assessed versus CD133+/ALDH+ cell-initiated tumor xenografts. Results: Disulfiram demonstrated antineoplastic activity against multiple ovarian cancer cell lines. While Disulfiram had limited in vitro toxicity against human ovarian surface epithelial cells or mesenchymal stem cells (IC50 of ~15 μM and >30 μM, respectively), its antineoplastic activity against cell lines was comparable to Cisplatin (IC50 ~1.5 μM). Disulfiram-mediated cell death was due, at least in part, to induction of apoptosis. Disulfiram activity was additive with chemotherapy. Disulfiram demonstrated selective depletion of CD44+ cells but not the CD133+ cancer stem-like cells. Disulfiram had no therapeutic impact on tumor initiation studies or in vivo therapy of whole cell line or stem cell-initiated tumor xenografts. Conclusions: In biologically relevant concentrations, Disulfiram has clear antineoplastic activity against ovarian cancer cells in vitro. Disulfiram selectively depleted CD44+ but not CD133+ ovarian cancer stem-like cells in vitro. However, Disulfiram had no significant activity in vivo. Thus, improved and more selective ALDH inhibitors may be required to target ovarian cancer stem cells.展开更多
This research work investigated and compared the chronic renal toxicological profile of disulfiram, copper gluconate and disulfiram/copper gluconate combination, in a 90-day time- and dose-dependent study in rodents. ...This research work investigated and compared the chronic renal toxicological profile of disulfiram, copper gluconate and disulfiram/copper gluconate combination, in a 90-day time- and dose-dependent study in rodents. 88 rats weighing an average of 280 g divided into eleven groups consisting of 8 rats each were used for this experiment. The control groups received normal saline as placebo and 99.5% dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) (solvent control). Three oral doses (low, medium and high) of disulfiram (18.65 mg/kg, 37.3 mg/kg and 74.6 mg/kg), copper gluconate (3.75 mg/kg, 7.5 mg/kg and 15 mg/kg) and both drugs in combination were administered daily with those of the combination given 12 hours apart. Blood samples were collected via cardiac puncture in heparinised bottles and centrifuged, and the serum was decanted on 30, 45, 60 and 90 days for analysis. Renal function parameters—electrolytes (Na+, K+), urea and creatinine were evaluated. Results showed significant (p < 0.05) dose- and time-dependent increase in electrolyte level (Na+, K+), blood urea and creatinine respectively. The results are all pointers to the development of renal failure. It therefore appears that the DSF/CG combination is nephrotoxic and this effect is dose-dependent and synergistic.展开更多
The chronic toxicological profile of disulfiram/copper gluconate (DSF/CG) combination was investigated in a 90 day time and dose dependent study. A total of 148 rats weighing 260 - 300 g were used for this study;60 fo...The chronic toxicological profile of disulfiram/copper gluconate (DSF/CG) combination was investigated in a 90 day time and dose dependent study. A total of 148 rats weighing 260 - 300 g were used for this study;60 for the pilot study and 88 for the chronic toxicity test. 88 rats divided into eleven groups consisting of 8 rats each were used for the main experiment. Groups 1 and 2 served as control groups and received normal saline as placebo and 99.5% dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) (Solvent control), respectively. Drugs were administered orally via a 1 ml syringe. Animals were given three doses (1/5th, 1/10th and 1/20th) of the calculated LD50 of 373 mg/kg and 75 mg/kg for disulfiram and copper gluconate respectively. Dosing was done daily with that of the combination given 12 hours apart. Blood samples were obtained via cardiac puncture on days 30, 45, 60 and 90 for analysis. Haematological parameters showed a significant (p < 0.05) dose- and time-dependent decrease in the packed cell volume, red blood cell count, white blood cell count and platelet count respectively. The results indicate bone marrow depression evidenced by anemia, leucopenia and thrombocytopenia in the experimental animals. The DSF/CG combination appears to exhibit a synergistic dose-dependent haematotoxicity.展开更多
This article describes the prototypical clinical presentation, electrodiagnostic and neuropathological findings and treatment of a patient with painful peripheral neuropathy due to disulfiram toxicity. Although a revi...This article describes the prototypical clinical presentation, electrodiagnostic and neuropathological findings and treatment of a patient with painful peripheral neuropathy due to disulfiram toxicity. Although a review of the literature fails to reveal cases of painful peripheral neuropathy due to disulfiram toxicity, there has been heightened publicity of its risk in the treatment of persistent symptoms of Lyme disease following a standard of care course of antibiotics known as post-treatment Lyme disease syndrome. This article reviews the etiopathogenesis and diagnosis of predominant small fiber neuropathy resulting from disulfiram neurotoxicity, and offers recommendations for its use in Lyme disease and alcoholism.展开更多
Based on reporting in the last several years,an impressive but dismal list of cytotoxic chemotherapies that fail to prolong the median overall survival of patients with glioblastoma has prompted the development of tre...Based on reporting in the last several years,an impressive but dismal list of cytotoxic chemotherapies that fail to prolong the median overall survival of patients with glioblastoma has prompted the development of treatment protocols designed to interfere with growth-facilitating signaling systems by using non-cytotoxic,non-oncology drugs.Recent recognition of the pro-mobility stimulus,interleukin-18,as a driver of centrifugal glioblastoma cell migration allows potential treatment adjuncts with disulfiram and ritonavir.Disulfiram and ritonavir are well-tolerated,non-cytotoxic,non-oncology chemotherapeutic drugs that are marketed for the treatment of alcoholism and human immunodeficiency virus(HIV) infection,respectively.Both drugs exhibit an interleukin-18—inhibiting function.Given the favorable tolerability profile of disulfiram and ritonavir,the unlikely drug-drug interaction with temozolomide,and the poor prognosis of glioblastoma,trials of addition of disulfiram and ritonavir to current standard initial treatment of glioblastoma would be warranted.展开更多
Cancer is a major global health issue.Effective therapeutic strategies can prolong patients’survival and reduce the costs of treatment.Drug repurposing,which identifies new therapeutic uses for approved drugs,is a pr...Cancer is a major global health issue.Effective therapeutic strategies can prolong patients’survival and reduce the costs of treatment.Drug repurposing,which identifies new therapeutic uses for approved drugs,is a promising approach with the advantages of reducing research costs,shortening development time,and increasing efficiency and safety.Disulfiram(DSF),a Food and Drug Administration(FDA)-approved drug used to treat chronic alcoholism,has a great potential as an anticancer drug by targeting diverse human malignancies.Several studies show the antitumor effects of DSF,particularly the combination of DSF and copper(DSF/Cu),on a wide range of cancers such as glioblastoma(GBM),breast cancer,liver cancer,pancreatic cancer,and melanoma.In this review,we summarize the antitumor mechanisms of DSF/Cu,including induction of intracellular reactive oxygen species(ROS)and various cell death signaling pathways,and inhibition of proteasome activity,as well as inhibition of nuclear factor-kappa B(NF-κB)signaling.Furthermore,we highlight the ability of DSF/Cu to target cancer stem cells(CSCs),which provides a new approach to prevent tumor recurrence and metastasis.Strikingly,DSF/Cu inhibits several molecular targets associated with drug resistance,and therefore it is becoming a novel option to increase the sensitivity of chemo-resistant and radio-resistant patients.Studies of DSF/Cu may shed light on its improved application to clinical tumor treatment.展开更多
Drug repurposing offers a valuable strategy for identifying new therapeutic applications for existing drugs.Recently,disulfiram(DSF),a drug primarily used for alcohol addiction treatment,has emerged as a potential tre...Drug repurposing offers a valuable strategy for identifying new therapeutic applications for existing drugs.Recently,disulfiram(DSF),a drug primarily used for alcohol addiction treatment,has emerged as a potential treatment for inflammatory diseases by inhibiting pyroptosis,a form of programmed cell death.The therapeutic activity of DSF can be further enhanced by the presence of Cu^(2+),although the underlying mechanism of this enhancement remains unclear.In this study,we investigated the mechanistic basis of Cu^(2+)-induced enhancement and discovered that it is attributed to the formation of a novel copper ethylthiocarbamate(CuET)complex.CuET exhibited significantly stronger anti-pyroptotic activity compared to DSF and employed a distinct mechanism of action.However,despite its potent activity,CuET suffered from poor solubility and limited permeability,as revealed by our druggability studies.To overcome these intrinsic limitations,we developed a scalable method to prepare CuET nanocrystals(CuET NCs)using a metal coordination-driven self-assembly approach.Pharmacokinetic studies demonstrated that CuET NCs exhibited a 6-fold improvement in bioavailability.Notably,CuET NCs exhibited high biodistribution in the intestine,suggesting their potential application for the treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases(IBDs).To evaluate their therapeutic efficacy in vivo,we employed a murine model of DSS-induced colitis and observed that CuET NCs effectively attenuated inflammation and ameliorated colitis symptoms.Our findings highlight the discovery of CuET as a potent anti-pyroptotic agent,and the development of CuET NCs represents a novel approach to enhance the druggability of CuET.展开更多
Endometrial cancer(EC)stands as one of the most prevalent gynecological malignancies affecting women,with its incidence and disease-related mortality steadily on the rise.Disulfiram(DSF),an FDA-approved medication pri...Endometrial cancer(EC)stands as one of the most prevalent gynecological malignancies affecting women,with its incidence and disease-related mortality steadily on the rise.Disulfiram(DSF),an FDA-approved medication primarily used for treating alcohol addiction,has exhibited promising anti-tumor properties.Studies have revealed DSF’s capacity for enhanced anti-tumor activity,particularly when combined with copper.The novel Copper-Cysteamine(CuCy)compound,Cu_(3)Cl(SR)_(2)(R--CH_(2)CH_(2)NH_(2)),showcases photodynamic effects and demonstrates significant anti-tumor potential under various conditions,including exposure to ultraviolet light,X-ray,microwave,and ultrasound.This study delves into exploring the synergistic anti-tumor effects and underlying mechanisms by utilizing copper-cysteamine in conjunction with DSF against endometrial cancer.The investigation involved comprehensive analyses encompassing in vitro experiments utilizing Ishikawa cells,in vivo studies,and transcriptomic analyses.Remarkably,the combined administration of both compounds at a low dose of 0.5μM exhibited pronounced efficacy in impeding tumor growth,inhibiting blood vessel formation,and stimulating cell apoptosis.Notably,experiments involving transplanted tumors in nude mice vividly demonstrated the significant in vivo anti-tumor effects of this combination treatment.Detailed examination through transmission electron microscopy unveiled compelling evidence of mitochondrial damage,cellular swelling,and rupture,indicative of apoptotic changes in morphology due to the combined treatment.Moreover,transcriptomic analysis unveiled substantial downregulation of mitochondrial-related genes at the molecular level,coupled with a significant hindrance in the DNA repair pathway.These findings strongly suggest that the combined application of CuCy and DSF induces mitochondrial impairment in Ishikawa cells,thereby fostering apoptosis and ultimately yielding potent anti-tumor effects.展开更多
STING(also known as MITA)is an adaptor protein that mediates cytoplasmic DNA-triggered signaling,and aberrant activation of STING/MITA by cytosolic self-DNA or gain-of-function mutations causes severe inflammation.Her...STING(also known as MITA)is an adaptor protein that mediates cytoplasmic DNA-triggered signaling,and aberrant activation of STING/MITA by cytosolic self-DNA or gain-of-function mutations causes severe inflammation.Here,we show that STING-mediated inflammation and autoimmunity are promoted by RNF115 and alleviated by the RNF115 inhibitor disulfiram(DSF).Knockout of RNF115 or treatment with DSF significantly inhibit systemic inflammation and autoimmune lethality and restore immune cell development in Trex1^(–/–)mice and STING^(N153S/WT) bone marrow chimeric mice.In addition,knockdown or pharmacological inhibition of RNF115 substantially downregulate the expression of IFN-α,IFN-γand proinflammatory cytokines in PBMCs from patients with systemic lupus erythematosus(SLE)who exhibit high concentrations of dsDNA in peripheral blood.Mechanistically,knockout or inhibition of RNF115 impair the oligomerization and Golgi localization of STING in various types of cells transfected with cGAMP and in organs and cells from Trex1^(–/–)mice.Interestingly,knockout of RNF115 inhibits the activation and Golgi localization of STINGN153S as well as the expression of proinflammatory cytokines in myeloid cells but not in endothelial cells or fibroblasts.Taken together,these findings highlight the RNF115-mediated cell type-specific regulation of STING and STINGN153S and provide potential targeted intervention strategies for STING-related autoimmune diseases.展开更多
基金supported by Liaoning Provincial Key Labora-tory of Drug Preparation Design and Evaluation of Liaoning Provincial Education Department(LZ2014045)
文摘To improve the corneal permeability and water-solubility of disulfiram(DSF), which is an ocular drug for cataract, P188 was selected as a matrix to prepare solid dispersion of DSF(DSF SD) by hot melt method. The DSF SD was characterized by DSC, XRD, and IR, and the results suggested that DSF was amorphous in DSF SD. The DSF SD was added to borate buffer solution(BBS) contained 20% poloxamer P407 and 1.2% poloxamer P188 to form in-situ gel. In vitro and in vivo experiments revealed that DSF SD combined with in-situ gel(DSF SD/in-situ gel) increased the residence time and the amount of DSF penetrated through the corneal. The pharmacodynamics studies exhibited DSF SD/in-situ gel delayed the development of selenium-induced cataract at some content. These results investigated that DSF SD/in-situ gel as a drug delivery system can improve DSF ocular permeability.
基金funded by Guangzhou Scienceand Information Bureau Item of China(Grant No.201904010013)by Natural Science Foundation of Guangdong Province of China(Grant No.2018A0303130180).
文摘Various therapeutic strategies have been developed to overcome ovarian cancer.However,the prognoses resulting from these strategies are still unclear.In the present work,we screened 54 small molecule compounds approved by the FDA to identify novel agents that could inhibit the viability of human epithelial ovarian cancer cells.Among these,we identified disulfiram(DSF),an old alcohol-abuse drug,as a potential inducer of cell death in ovarian cancer.Mechanistically,DSF treatment significantly reduced the expression of the anti-apoptosis marker Bcell lymphoma/leukemia-2(Bcl-2)and increase the expression of the apoptotic molecules Bcl2 associated X(Bax)and cleaved caspase-3 to promote human epithelial ovarian cancer cell apoptosis.Furthermore,DSF is a newly identified effective copper ionophore,thus the combination of DSF and copper was used to reduce ovarian cancer viability than DSF single treatment.Combination treatment with DSF and copper also led to the reduced expression of ferredoxin 1 and loss of Fe-S cluster proteins(biomarkers of cuproptosis).In vivo,DSF and copper gluconate significantly decreased the tumor volume and increased the survival rate in a murine ovarian cancer xenograft model.Thus,the role of DSF revealed its potential for used as a viable therapeutic agent for the ovarian cancer.
基金Supported by a research grant from the Agencia Espafiola del Medicamento and a FIS grant, No.041688
文摘Disulfiram and calcium carbimide are two alcohol deterrants widely used in alcoholism treatment, however, there exist great concerns over their safety. Reports on hepatotoxicity, mainly related to disulfiram therapy, have been published. The hepatotoxic potential of calcium carbimide is less well characterized. Here, we describe four cases of liver damage related to this therapeutic group that were submitted to a Registry of hepatotoxicity and point out the limitations that we face when prescribing these compounds. A reassessment of the role of these compounds in the management of alcohol dependence is clearly needed.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.82104192)the Zhejiang Provincial Natural Science Foundation(No.LR22H310002)+1 种基金the Scientific Research Fund of Zhejiang University(No.XY2021044)the Zhejiang University K.P.Chao’s High Technology Development Foundation.
文摘A series of chemotherapeutic drugs that induce DNA damage,such as cisplatin(DDP),are standard clinical treatments for ovarian cancer,testicular cancer,and other diseases that lack effective targeted drug therapy.Drug resistance is one of the main factors limiting their application.Sensitizers can overcome the drug resistance of tumor cells,thereby enhancing the antitumor activity of chemotherapeutic drugs.In this study,we aimed to identify marketable drugs that could be potential chemotherapy sensitizers and explore the underlying mechanisms.We found that the alcohol withdrawal drug disulfiram(DSF)could significantly enhance the antitumor activity of DDP.JC-1 staining,propidium iodide(PI)staining,and western blotting confirmed that the combination of DSF and DDP could enhance the apoptosis of tumor cells.Subsequent RNA sequencing combined with Gene Set Enrichment Analysis(GSEA)pathway enrichment analysis and cell biology studies such as immunofluorescence suggested an underlying mechanism:DSF makes cells more vulnerable to DNA damage by inhibiting the Fanconi anemia(FA)repair pathway,exerting a sensitizing effect to DNA damaging agents including platinum chemotherapy drugs.Thus,our study illustrated the potential mechanism of action of DSF in enhancing the antitumor effect of DDP.This might provide an effective and safe solution for combating DDP resistance in clinical treatment.
文摘Disulfiram remains a viable option as a treatment for alcohol dependence and has been shown in recent studies to be successful in treating patients with alcohol dependence in a manner that is superior to both naltrexone and acamprosate. It is also useful in dual diagnosis patients and those with co-morbid cocaine and alcohol dependence. Although disulfiram’s mechanism of action in alcohol dependence was long thought to be its effects as a psychological deterrent, more recent studies have uncovered potential anticraving effects as well. Recent reviews exhort to the importance of supervised disulfiram therapy in highlighting many of the potential and unique benefits of disulfiram. The present article will review the major clinical trials of disulfiram spanning nearly 60 years. It also discusses the usage of disulfiram across diverse populations along with monitoring for compliance and various adverse effects that may be encountered. The paper also reviews certain studies on long acting disulfiram therapy, recent comparative trials of disulfiram and its use in alcohol dependence. The review concludes with the role of disulfiram in the present day and long-term pharmacotherapy of alcohol dependence along with future research needs in this area.
文摘Objective: Aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) enzymatic activity identifies ovarian cancer stem-like cells. We investigated the antineoplastic activity of the ALDH inhibitor Disulfiram on bulk ovarian cancer cells and CD133+/ALDH+ cancer stem-like cells. Study Design: Ovarian cancer cell lines, human ovarian surface epithelial cells, and mesenchymal stem cells were treated with increasing concentrations of Disulfiram and/or Cisplatin in vitro. Treated cells were assessed for viability or FACS-analyzed for either percentage of ovarian cancer stem-like cells or induction of apoptosis. Disulfiram’s impact on cancer stem-like cells was tested in vitro using tumor sphere formation assays and in vivo using tumor initiation assays with in vitro-treated A2780 cells in NSG mice. Finally, Disulfiram’s in vivo activity was assessed versus CD133+/ALDH+ cell-initiated tumor xenografts. Results: Disulfiram demonstrated antineoplastic activity against multiple ovarian cancer cell lines. While Disulfiram had limited in vitro toxicity against human ovarian surface epithelial cells or mesenchymal stem cells (IC50 of ~15 μM and >30 μM, respectively), its antineoplastic activity against cell lines was comparable to Cisplatin (IC50 ~1.5 μM). Disulfiram-mediated cell death was due, at least in part, to induction of apoptosis. Disulfiram activity was additive with chemotherapy. Disulfiram demonstrated selective depletion of CD44+ cells but not the CD133+ cancer stem-like cells. Disulfiram had no therapeutic impact on tumor initiation studies or in vivo therapy of whole cell line or stem cell-initiated tumor xenografts. Conclusions: In biologically relevant concentrations, Disulfiram has clear antineoplastic activity against ovarian cancer cells in vitro. Disulfiram selectively depleted CD44+ but not CD133+ ovarian cancer stem-like cells in vitro. However, Disulfiram had no significant activity in vivo. Thus, improved and more selective ALDH inhibitors may be required to target ovarian cancer stem cells.
文摘This research work investigated and compared the chronic renal toxicological profile of disulfiram, copper gluconate and disulfiram/copper gluconate combination, in a 90-day time- and dose-dependent study in rodents. 88 rats weighing an average of 280 g divided into eleven groups consisting of 8 rats each were used for this experiment. The control groups received normal saline as placebo and 99.5% dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) (solvent control). Three oral doses (low, medium and high) of disulfiram (18.65 mg/kg, 37.3 mg/kg and 74.6 mg/kg), copper gluconate (3.75 mg/kg, 7.5 mg/kg and 15 mg/kg) and both drugs in combination were administered daily with those of the combination given 12 hours apart. Blood samples were collected via cardiac puncture in heparinised bottles and centrifuged, and the serum was decanted on 30, 45, 60 and 90 days for analysis. Renal function parameters—electrolytes (Na+, K+), urea and creatinine were evaluated. Results showed significant (p < 0.05) dose- and time-dependent increase in electrolyte level (Na+, K+), blood urea and creatinine respectively. The results are all pointers to the development of renal failure. It therefore appears that the DSF/CG combination is nephrotoxic and this effect is dose-dependent and synergistic.
文摘The chronic toxicological profile of disulfiram/copper gluconate (DSF/CG) combination was investigated in a 90 day time and dose dependent study. A total of 148 rats weighing 260 - 300 g were used for this study;60 for the pilot study and 88 for the chronic toxicity test. 88 rats divided into eleven groups consisting of 8 rats each were used for the main experiment. Groups 1 and 2 served as control groups and received normal saline as placebo and 99.5% dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) (Solvent control), respectively. Drugs were administered orally via a 1 ml syringe. Animals were given three doses (1/5th, 1/10th and 1/20th) of the calculated LD50 of 373 mg/kg and 75 mg/kg for disulfiram and copper gluconate respectively. Dosing was done daily with that of the combination given 12 hours apart. Blood samples were obtained via cardiac puncture on days 30, 45, 60 and 90 for analysis. Haematological parameters showed a significant (p < 0.05) dose- and time-dependent decrease in the packed cell volume, red blood cell count, white blood cell count and platelet count respectively. The results indicate bone marrow depression evidenced by anemia, leucopenia and thrombocytopenia in the experimental animals. The DSF/CG combination appears to exhibit a synergistic dose-dependent haematotoxicity.
文摘This article describes the prototypical clinical presentation, electrodiagnostic and neuropathological findings and treatment of a patient with painful peripheral neuropathy due to disulfiram toxicity. Although a review of the literature fails to reveal cases of painful peripheral neuropathy due to disulfiram toxicity, there has been heightened publicity of its risk in the treatment of persistent symptoms of Lyme disease following a standard of care course of antibiotics known as post-treatment Lyme disease syndrome. This article reviews the etiopathogenesis and diagnosis of predominant small fiber neuropathy resulting from disulfiram neurotoxicity, and offers recommendations for its use in Lyme disease and alcoholism.
文摘Based on reporting in the last several years,an impressive but dismal list of cytotoxic chemotherapies that fail to prolong the median overall survival of patients with glioblastoma has prompted the development of treatment protocols designed to interfere with growth-facilitating signaling systems by using non-cytotoxic,non-oncology drugs.Recent recognition of the pro-mobility stimulus,interleukin-18,as a driver of centrifugal glioblastoma cell migration allows potential treatment adjuncts with disulfiram and ritonavir.Disulfiram and ritonavir are well-tolerated,non-cytotoxic,non-oncology chemotherapeutic drugs that are marketed for the treatment of alcoholism and human immunodeficiency virus(HIV) infection,respectively.Both drugs exhibit an interleukin-18—inhibiting function.Given the favorable tolerability profile of disulfiram and ritonavir,the unlikely drug-drug interaction with temozolomide,and the poor prognosis of glioblastoma,trials of addition of disulfiram and ritonavir to current standard initial treatment of glioblastoma would be warranted.
基金supported by grants from the Undergraduate Research and Innovation Project of University of South China(Nos.X202110555528,S202210555245,and X202210555136)
文摘Cancer is a major global health issue.Effective therapeutic strategies can prolong patients’survival and reduce the costs of treatment.Drug repurposing,which identifies new therapeutic uses for approved drugs,is a promising approach with the advantages of reducing research costs,shortening development time,and increasing efficiency and safety.Disulfiram(DSF),a Food and Drug Administration(FDA)-approved drug used to treat chronic alcoholism,has a great potential as an anticancer drug by targeting diverse human malignancies.Several studies show the antitumor effects of DSF,particularly the combination of DSF and copper(DSF/Cu),on a wide range of cancers such as glioblastoma(GBM),breast cancer,liver cancer,pancreatic cancer,and melanoma.In this review,we summarize the antitumor mechanisms of DSF/Cu,including induction of intracellular reactive oxygen species(ROS)and various cell death signaling pathways,and inhibition of proteasome activity,as well as inhibition of nuclear factor-kappa B(NF-κB)signaling.Furthermore,we highlight the ability of DSF/Cu to target cancer stem cells(CSCs),which provides a new approach to prevent tumor recurrence and metastasis.Strikingly,DSF/Cu inhibits several molecular targets associated with drug resistance,and therefore it is becoming a novel option to increase the sensitivity of chemo-resistant and radio-resistant patients.Studies of DSF/Cu may shed light on its improved application to clinical tumor treatment.
基金supported by National Key Research and Development Program of China(2021YFC2500802)National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.82071986,82073799,81771827,82272207,and 82202398)+3 种基金Natural Science Foundation of Hunan Province China(Nos.2021JJ20084 and 2021JJ20090)the Science and Technology Innovation Program of Hunan Province(2021RC3020,China)the Central South University Graduate Students Independent Exploration and Innovation Project(No.2021zzts0984,China)the Wisdom Accumulation and Talent Cultivation Project of the Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University(China).
文摘Drug repurposing offers a valuable strategy for identifying new therapeutic applications for existing drugs.Recently,disulfiram(DSF),a drug primarily used for alcohol addiction treatment,has emerged as a potential treatment for inflammatory diseases by inhibiting pyroptosis,a form of programmed cell death.The therapeutic activity of DSF can be further enhanced by the presence of Cu^(2+),although the underlying mechanism of this enhancement remains unclear.In this study,we investigated the mechanistic basis of Cu^(2+)-induced enhancement and discovered that it is attributed to the formation of a novel copper ethylthiocarbamate(CuET)complex.CuET exhibited significantly stronger anti-pyroptotic activity compared to DSF and employed a distinct mechanism of action.However,despite its potent activity,CuET suffered from poor solubility and limited permeability,as revealed by our druggability studies.To overcome these intrinsic limitations,we developed a scalable method to prepare CuET nanocrystals(CuET NCs)using a metal coordination-driven self-assembly approach.Pharmacokinetic studies demonstrated that CuET NCs exhibited a 6-fold improvement in bioavailability.Notably,CuET NCs exhibited high biodistribution in the intestine,suggesting their potential application for the treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases(IBDs).To evaluate their therapeutic efficacy in vivo,we employed a murine model of DSS-induced colitis and observed that CuET NCs effectively attenuated inflammation and ameliorated colitis symptoms.Our findings highlight the discovery of CuET as a potent anti-pyroptotic agent,and the development of CuET NCs represents a novel approach to enhance the druggability of CuET.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(22071066)CAMS Innovation Fund for Medical Science(CIFMS,No.2018-12M-1-004)the project from department of Education,Jiangsu Province for the School of CHIPS at XJTLU(EFP10120240023).
文摘Endometrial cancer(EC)stands as one of the most prevalent gynecological malignancies affecting women,with its incidence and disease-related mortality steadily on the rise.Disulfiram(DSF),an FDA-approved medication primarily used for treating alcohol addiction,has exhibited promising anti-tumor properties.Studies have revealed DSF’s capacity for enhanced anti-tumor activity,particularly when combined with copper.The novel Copper-Cysteamine(CuCy)compound,Cu_(3)Cl(SR)_(2)(R--CH_(2)CH_(2)NH_(2)),showcases photodynamic effects and demonstrates significant anti-tumor potential under various conditions,including exposure to ultraviolet light,X-ray,microwave,and ultrasound.This study delves into exploring the synergistic anti-tumor effects and underlying mechanisms by utilizing copper-cysteamine in conjunction with DSF against endometrial cancer.The investigation involved comprehensive analyses encompassing in vitro experiments utilizing Ishikawa cells,in vivo studies,and transcriptomic analyses.Remarkably,the combined administration of both compounds at a low dose of 0.5μM exhibited pronounced efficacy in impeding tumor growth,inhibiting blood vessel formation,and stimulating cell apoptosis.Notably,experiments involving transplanted tumors in nude mice vividly demonstrated the significant in vivo anti-tumor effects of this combination treatment.Detailed examination through transmission electron microscopy unveiled compelling evidence of mitochondrial damage,cellular swelling,and rupture,indicative of apoptotic changes in morphology due to the combined treatment.Moreover,transcriptomic analysis unveiled substantial downregulation of mitochondrial-related genes at the molecular level,coupled with a significant hindrance in the DNA repair pathway.These findings strongly suggest that the combined application of CuCy and DSF induces mitochondrial impairment in Ishikawa cells,thereby fostering apoptosis and ultimately yielding potent anti-tumor effects.
基金supported by grants from the National Key Research and Development Program of China(Grant Nos.2022YFC3401500 and 2023YFC2306100)the Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.31930040,32070900,82000670,32270951,32200710,and 823B1006)+3 种基金the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(Grant Nos.2042022kf1187,2042022kf1123 and 2042022dx0003)the Major Scientific and Technological Project of Hubei Province(Grant No.2022ACA005)the Translational Medicine and Interdisciplinary Research Joint Found of Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University(Grant.No.ZNJC202218)the Non-Profit Central Research Institute Fund of the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(Grant No.2020PT320-004).
文摘STING(also known as MITA)is an adaptor protein that mediates cytoplasmic DNA-triggered signaling,and aberrant activation of STING/MITA by cytosolic self-DNA or gain-of-function mutations causes severe inflammation.Here,we show that STING-mediated inflammation and autoimmunity are promoted by RNF115 and alleviated by the RNF115 inhibitor disulfiram(DSF).Knockout of RNF115 or treatment with DSF significantly inhibit systemic inflammation and autoimmune lethality and restore immune cell development in Trex1^(–/–)mice and STING^(N153S/WT) bone marrow chimeric mice.In addition,knockdown or pharmacological inhibition of RNF115 substantially downregulate the expression of IFN-α,IFN-γand proinflammatory cytokines in PBMCs from patients with systemic lupus erythematosus(SLE)who exhibit high concentrations of dsDNA in peripheral blood.Mechanistically,knockout or inhibition of RNF115 impair the oligomerization and Golgi localization of STING in various types of cells transfected with cGAMP and in organs and cells from Trex1^(–/–)mice.Interestingly,knockout of RNF115 inhibits the activation and Golgi localization of STINGN153S as well as the expression of proinflammatory cytokines in myeloid cells but not in endothelial cells or fibroblasts.Taken together,these findings highlight the RNF115-mediated cell type-specific regulation of STING and STINGN153S and provide potential targeted intervention strategies for STING-related autoimmune diseases.
基金supported by the Scientific Research Project of Sichuan Medical Association(No.S22101)the Doctoral Research Initiation Fund of Affiliated Hospital of Sichuan North Medical College(No.202002).
