BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies (Jun 2024)

Catechin-Induced changes in PODXL, DNMTs, and miRNA expression in Nalm6 cells: an integrated in silico and in vitro approach

  • Ali Afgar,
  • Alireza Keyhani,
  • Amirreza Afgar,
  • Mohamad Javad Mirzaei-Parsa,
  • Mahdiyeh Ramezani Zadeh Kermani,
  • Masoud Rezaei,
  • Mohammad Ebrahimipour,
  • Ladan Langroudi,
  • Mahla Sattarzadeh Bardsiri,
  • Reza Vahidi

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/s12906-024-04521-2
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 24, no. 1
pp. 1 – 18

Abstract

Read online

Abstract Background This study explored the impact of predicted miRNAs on DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) and the PODXL gene in Nalm6 cells, revealing the significance of these miRNAs in acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL). Methods A comprehensive approach was adopted, integrating bioinformatic analyses encompassing protein structure prediction, molecular docking, dynamics, and ADMET profiling, in conjunction with evaluations of gene and miRNA expression patterns. This methodology was employed to elucidate the therapeutic potential of catechin compounds in modulating the activity of DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) and the PODXL gene. Results The findings from our investigation indicate that catechins possess the capability to inhibit DNMT enzymes. This inhibitory effect is associated with the upregulation of microRNAs miR-200c and miR-548 and a concurrent downregulation of PODXL gene expression. These molecular interactions culminate in an augmented apoptotic response within ALL (Nalm6) cells. Conclusion The study posits that catechins may represent a viable therapeutic avenue for inducing apoptosis in ALL cells. This is achieved through the modulation of epigenetic mechanisms and alterations in gene expression profiles, highlighting the potential of catechins as agents for cancer therapy.

Keywords