International Webinar

Exploring the Potential of Natural Alkaloids in Cancer Treatment: A Webinar with Prof. Peng Chen and Dr. Yunhao Ma

12 October 2023

Summary of Report on International Webinar on Lead Component Discovery of Antitumor Drug based on Natural Alkaloids: Isaindigotone and Neocrylepine

Introduction

On October 12, 2023, the Department of Life Sciences at Sri Sathya Sai University for Human Excellence organized a webinar on the topic of "Research on Lead Component Discovery of Antitumor Drug based on Natural Alkaloids: Isaindigotone and Neocrylepine." The speaker was Prof. Peng Chen and Dr. Yunhao Ma from the Institute of Natural Medicine Chemistry and Biology School of Pharmacy at Lanzhou University, Gansu, China.

Objectives

The webinar aimed to address the following objectives:

• To provide insights into the prevalence of cancer and the need for improved treatment options.

• To explore the potential of natural alkaloids in antitumor drug development, with an emphasis on their ability to minimize harm to normal cells.

• To underscore the importance of developing cancer treatments with minimal side effects.

Key Points and Topics Discussed

The following key points and topics were discussed during the webinar:

• The university's research accomplishments in natural alkaloid synthesis against cancer cells and their publication in reputable scientific journals.

• Strategies to reduce the toxicity of compounds, including methods like enzyme activity testing, evaluation of antitumor activity in mice, and verification of the compound's target action.

• How compound 26 affects the key protein in the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway.

• How compound 26 does not affect the cell cycle of AGS and HGC27 cells.

• How compound 26 has an inhibitory effect on gastric cancer cells, showing high toxicity in cancer cells while sparing normal cells.

• Observations regarding the significant death and disintegration of human gastric cancer organoids after treatment with neocryptolepine derivative Z45.

• Information about neocryptolepine and its derivatives, which exhibit cytotoxicity against oral and ascites cancer cells at the nanomolar (nM) level.

• The importance of finding effective and low-toxic chemotherapy drugs as a strategy for cancer treatment.

• The various drug categories for cancer treatment, including 1st-line, 2nd-line, and 3rd-line drugs, and their respective roles and significance in cancer therapy.

Conclusion

The webinar provided valuable insights into current research and diverse strategies for combatting severe illnesses like cancer. It expanded knowledge and ignited a spark of inspiration to contribute positively to society. The significance of discoveries lies not only in what is found but more importantly in how effective and beneficial they are for patients, ultimately enhancing the quality of their lives. It is not just about how much progress has been made in comprehending the disease; it is about how effectively the gap can be bridged and how many people can be reached with innovations, touching and improving countless lives along the way.