Unveiling the potential of germinated black bean extracts: Targeting topoisomerase IIα through in silico and in vitro approaches

Food Chem. 2025 Feb 1;464(Pt 1):141576. doi: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2024.141576. Epub 2024 Oct 9.

Abstract

This study investigates the potential of germinated black bean extracts (GBBE) to modulate the activity of topoisomerase IIα (topo IIα), a key enzyme involved in DNA replication and repair, particularly in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Germination significantly elevated the polyphenolic content of black beans, thereby enhancing their antioxidant properties. Molecular docking studies demonstrated a strong interaction between GBBE and the active site of topo IIα, suggesting a possible mechanism for its inhibitory action. In vitro experiments revealed a significant inhibitory effect of GBBE on topo IIα ATPase activity, which was further confirmed by the decatenation assay, with bean extracts germinated for three days showing the highest effect. The study underscores the significance of GBBE as a promising natural source of bioactive compounds with the capacity to inhibit topo IIα activity, offering a potential novel therapeutic strategy against TNBC. Warranting further investigation to clarify the molecular mechanisms underlying these effects.

Keywords: Germinated black beans; Polyphenols; Topoisomerase II α.

MeSH terms

  • DNA Topoisomerases, Type II* / chemistry
  • DNA Topoisomerases, Type II* / metabolism
  • Germination* / drug effects
  • Humans
  • Molecular Docking Simulation*
  • Phaseolus / chemistry
  • Phaseolus / enzymology
  • Plant Extracts* / chemistry
  • Plant Extracts* / pharmacology
  • Seeds / chemistry
  • Topoisomerase II Inhibitors* / chemistry
  • Topoisomerase II Inhibitors* / pharmacology

Substances

  • DNA Topoisomerases, Type II
  • Plant Extracts
  • Topoisomerase II Inhibitors