Emoghrelin, a unique emodin derivative in Heshouwu, stimulates growth hormone secretion via activation of the ghrelin receptor

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Heshouwu, the root of Polygonum multiflorum, is an anti-aging Chinese traditional medicine. Fresh (raw) Heshouwu is commonly converted to processed Heshouwu by specialized heating to alleviate its side effects of diarrhea presumably caused by anthraquinones. However, raw Heshouwu has been noted to be better than processed Heshouwu regarding anti-aging effects. The therapeutic effects of raw Heshouwu on aging-related diseases were somehow similar to the anti-aging effects of growth hormone release induced by ghrelin

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Major ingredients in the methanol extract from raw Heshouwu were separated and identified. Emodin-8-O-(6'-O-malonyl)-glucoside, a unique anthraquinone glycoside known to be completely eliminated in the conversion process of Heshouwu was isolated. This emodin derivative, tentatively named emoghrelin, was examined for its cytotoxicity and capability of stimulating growth hormone release of rat primary anterior pituitary cells via activation of the ghrelin receptor. Moreover, molecular modeling of emoghrelin docking to the ghrelin receptor was exhibited to explore the possible interaction within the binding pocket.

RESULTS

No apparent cytotoxicity was observed for emoghrelin of 10(-7)-10(-4)M. Similar to growth hormone-releasing hormone-6 (GHRP-6), a synthetic analog of ghrelin, emoghrelin was demonstrated to stimulate growth hormone secretion of rat primary anterior pituitary cells in a dose dependent manner, and the stimulation was inhibited by [d-Arg(1), d-Phe(5), d-Trp(7,9), Leu(11)]-substance P, an antagonist of the ghrelin receptor. Molecular modeling and docking showed that emoghrelin as well as GHRP-6 could fit in and adequately interact with the binding pocket of the ghrelin receptor.

CONCLUSION

The results suggest that emoghrelin is a key ingredient accounting for the anti-aging effects of Heshouwu, and possesses great potential to be a promising non-peptidyl analog of ghrelin.

In vitro effects of active components of Polygonum Multiflorum Radix on enzymes involved in the lipid metabolism

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY RELEVANCE

Raw and processed Polygoni Multiflori Radix (PMR and PMRP) are used in the prevention and treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), hyperlipidemia or related diseases. In our previous research, 2, 3, 5, 4'-tetrahydroxy-stilbene-2-O-β-D-glucoside (TSG) displayed the most important role in the total cholesterol (TC) lowering effect among all the chemical constituents of Polygonum multiflorum. Emodin and physcion displayed more favorable triglyceride (TG) reducing effects than TSG. However, there are few researches focus on the approach and mechanism of how do Polygonum multiflorum exhibit good lipid regulation activity. The targeted sites of active substances of Polygonum multiflorum are still not clearly elucidated. This research pays close attention to how major chemical components of Polygonum multiflorum affect the TC and TG contents in liver cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this research, a sensitive, accurate and rapid in vitro model, steatosis hepatic L02 cell, was used to explore target sites of active chemical substances of Polygonum multiflorum for 48h. Steatosis hepatic L02 cell was exposed to emodin, physcion and TSG, respectively. The contents of four key enzymes in the pathway of synthesis and decomposition of TC and TG were investigated after exposure. Meanwhile, the contents of lipid transfer protein were also tested. The diacylgycerol acyltransferase 1 (DGAT1) controlled the biosynthesis of TG from free fatty acids while 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl-CoA reductase (HMG-CoA reductase) limited the biosynthesis of TC. Hepatic triglyceride lipase (HTGL) and cholesterol 7α-hydroxylase (CYP7A) played the key role in the lipolysis procedure of TG and TC.

RESULTS

The synthesis of TC and TG in steatosis L02 cells were apparently increased in the model group compared to the control group. Intracellular contents of HMG-CoA reductase and DGAT1 increased 32.33% and 56.52%, while contents of CYP7A and HTGL decreased 21.61% and 47.37%. Emodin, physcion and TSG all showed down-regulation effects on HMG-CoA reductase, while up-regulation effects on CYP7A. The most remarkable effect on HMG-CoA reductase was found on emodin. Emodin could reduce the DGAT1 content from 438.44 ± 4.51 pg/mL in model group to 192.55 ± 9.85 pg/mL (100 μm). The content of HTGL in 300 μm physcion group was 3.15 ± 0.15 U/mL, which was more significantly effective than the control, lovastatin and fenofibrate group.

CONCLUSIONS

TSG could raise the content of CYP7A and then promote the lipolysis of cholesterol. Moreover, TSG also showed the best LDL-reducing effect. Emodin could inhibit HMG-CoA reductase and DGAT1, which were key enzymes in the synthesis of TC and TG. Physcion increased the content of HTGL, and then could boost the lipolysis of triglyceride. At the same time, physcion showed the best VLDL-reducing effect. In view of the above conclusions, we contributed the lipid regulation activity to an overall synergy of TSG, emodin and physcion.

Genuine traditional Korean medicine, Naju Jjok (Chung-Dae, Polygonum tinctorium) improves 2,4-dinitrofluorobenzene-induced atopic dermatitis-like lesional skin

PURPOSE

Naju Jjok (NJJ, Polygonum tinctorium) is a clear heat and release toxin medicinal. It has been used to treat various inflammatory diseases and as a dye in clothing in traditional Korean medicine. However, the effect of NJJ on atopic dermatitis (AD) has not been elucidated. Therefore, we examined whether NJJ would have an inhibitory effect on AD using the mimic AD murine model and in vitro model.

METHODS

We treated NJJ on 2,4-dinitrofluorobenzene (DNFB)-induced AD-like skin lesions in NC/Nga mice, phorbol myristate acetate/calcium ionophore A23187-stimulated human mast cell line (HMC-1) cells, and anti-CD3/anti-CD28-stimulated splenocytes. Histological analysis, ELISA, PCR, and Western blot analysis were performed.

RESULTS

The oral administration with NJJ suppressed the total clinical severity in DNFB-induced AD-like lesional skin. NJJ significantly suppressed the levels of inflammatory mRNA and protein in AD-like lesional skin. NJJ significantly suppressed the levels of IgE and interleukin-4 in the serum of DNFB-induced AD mice. The expression of mast cells-derived caspase-1 was suppressed by NJJ in AD-like lesional skin. In addition, topical application with NJJ improved clinical symptoms in DNFB-induced AD mice. The topical application with NJJ significantly suppressed the levels of IgE and histamine in the serum of DNFB-induced AD mice. NJJ suppressed the production and mRNA expression of TSLP by blockade of caspase-1 signal pathway in the activated HMC-1 cells. Furthermore, NJJ significantly decreased the production of tumor necrosis factor-α from the stimulated splenocytes.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, these results propose curative potential of natural dye, NJJ by showing the scientific evidence on anti-AD effect of NJJ which has been used traditionally.

Anti-atherosclerotic effects of Polygonum aviculare L. ethanol extract in ApoE knock-out mice fed a Western diet mediated via the MAPK pathway

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Polygonum aviculare L. has been used in traditional Korean medicine to treat obesity and symptoms associated with hypertension. The effectiveness or mechanism of Polygonum aviculare L. ethanol extract (PAE) on atherosclerosis disease has not been examined experimentally. This study investigated the protective effect of PAE in atherosclerotic mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

ApoE KO mice were fed a Western diet (WD) alone or with PAE or a statin for 12 weeks, followed by analysis of bodyweight, serum lipid levels, and blood pressure. Staining of the aorta and adipose tissue, expression levels of adhesion molecules, and the MAPK pathway were also examined. Cell viability, NF-κB activity, and protein levels of adhesion molecules were assessed in vitro.

RESULTS

ApoE KO mice fed PAE (50 and 100 mg/kg) or statin (10 mg/kg) gained less body weight, and has less adipose tissue and lower serum lipid levels and blood pressures than the WD group. Aorta ICAM-1, VCAM-1, and NF-κB levels were decreased by PAE in a dose-dependent manner, consistent with the in vitro observations. PAE and statin decreased atherosclerotic plaque and adipocyte size versus the WD group. Furthermore, PAE decreased phosphorylation of MAPK pathway components in the aorta of PAE-treated mice, suggesting that PAE's anti-atherosclerotic effects are mediated via a MAPK pathway-dependent mechanism.

CONCLUSIONS

PAE may protect against the development of atherosclerotic disease. The beneficial effects are associated with lowering bodyweight, serum lipids, blood pressure, adhesion molecular protein levels, atherosclerotic plaque, and adipocyte size, involving the MAPK pathway.

The effect of 2,3,4',5-tetrahydroxystilbene-2-O-β-D-glucoside on pressure overload-induced cardiac remodeling in rats and its possible mechanism

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of 2,3,4',5-tetrahydroxystilbene-2-O-beta-D-glucoside, an active component extracted from Polygonum multiflorum, on pressure overload-induced cardiac remodeling in rats. A rat model with cardiac remodeling was induced by abdominal aortic banding. 2,3,4',5-Tetrahydroxystilbene-2-O-beta-D-glucoside (30, 60, 120 mg/kg/day) was administered 3 days after abdominal aortic banding and continued for 30 days. The abdominal aortic banding-treated rats had significantly elevated blood pressure, left ventricular hypertrophy, and myocardial fibrosis. Left ventricular hypertrophy was characterized by an increase in the ratios of the heart and left ventricular weights to body weight, and increased myocyte cross-sectional areas, hypertrophic ventricular septum, and left ventricular posterior wall. The accumulation of myocardial interstitial perivascular collagen and elevated cardiac hydroxyproline content indicated myocardial fibrosis. The pathological changes above were attenuated by 2,3,4',5-tetrahydroxystilbene-2-O-beta-D-glucoside. Additionally, it markedly reduced collagen I and III expressions and regulated matrix metalloproteinase-2,9 and inhibitors of metalloproteinase expressions, as markers of myocardial fibrosis. Furthermore, we explored the underlying mechanisms for such effects of 2,3,4',5-tetrahydroxystilbene-2-O-beta-D-glucoside. The results showed that it significantly reduced myocardium angiotensin II, enhanced the activities of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase in serum and myocardial tissue, as well as inhibited protein expression of transforming growth factor-β1 and phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase in the myocardial tissue. Our results suggest that 2,3,4',5-tetrahydroxystilbene-2-O-beta-D-glucoside could prevent cardiac remodeling induced by pressure overload in rats. The underlying mechanisms may be related to a decreasing angiotensin II level, an antioxidant effect of the tested compound, suppression of transforming growth factor-β1 expression, and inhibition of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase activation.

Neuroprotective effects of Polygonum multiflorum extract against glutamate-induced oxidative toxicity in HT22 hippocampal cells

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Dried roots of Polygonum multiflorum have traditionally been used in the retarding of aging process in East Asian countries and its extracts exhibit anti-oxidative activities.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Neuroprotective effects of ethyl acetate extract from Polygonum multiflorum (EEPM) were investigated against glutamate-induced oxidative cell death in HT22 hippocampal cells. Cell viability, cytotoxicity, morphological, flow cytometry, and Western blot assays were performed in order to observe alterations of neuronal cell survival or death related pathways.

RESULTS

Pretreatment with EEPM resulted in significantly decreased glutamate-induced neurotoxicity and also resulted in drastically inhibited glutamate-induced apoptotic and necrotic neuronal death. To elucidate possible pathways of neuroprotection by EEPM, we explored the activation of mitogen activated protein kinases (MAPKs), phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase, and cAMP responsive element binding protein (CREB). Treatment with glutamate alone led to activation of extracellular regulated kinase (ERK), Jun N-terminal kinase, and p38 during the late phase after glutamate exposure, but pretreatment with EEPM resulted in significantly attenuated activation of these proteins. Pretreatment with EEPM resulted in increased activation of CREB. The specific inhibitors of ERK and p38, PD98059 and SB203580, abrogated the neuroprotective effects of EEPM. When we evaluated calpain I and striatal-enriched protein tyrosine phosphatase (STEP), active form of calpain I was significantly increased after glutamate exposure, and, along with this, active form of STEP showed a decrease. Pretreatment with EEPM resulted in significant recovery of pro-calpain I and active form of STEP caused by glutamate. Co-treatment with calpain inhibitor ALLN and EEPM had a synergistic effect on neuronal death and contributed to blockade of activation of both ERK and p38 with increased activation of CREB.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that Polygonum multiflorum extract may have neuroprotective effects through both alleviation of ERK and p38 activation with increased activation of CREB under oxidative stress and has potential as a therapeutic intervention for treatment of oxidative neuronal death.

A bioactivity-guided study on the anti-diarrheal activity of Polygonum chinense Linn

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Polygonum chinense Linn., a folk medicine, has long been used for the treatment of diarrhea and enteritis in southwestern China. However, the components responsible for its anti-diarrheal activity are still poorly understood.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To determine anti-diarrheal activities of Polygonum chinense L. and to identify its active components through bioactivity-guided isolation technique.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Animals were orally administered with the extract of Polygonum chinense L. The anti-diarrheal effects of 75% ethanol extract, four fractions with different polarities from 75% ethanol extract, different eluates collected from Diaion HP-20 macroporous resin chromatography, ellagic acid and corilagin, were examined based on mouse models of castor oil- and magnesium sulfate-induced diarrhea.

RESULTS

The results showed that the 75% ethanol extract of Polygonum chinense L. exhibited significant anti-diarrheal activities in a dose-dependent manner in two mouse models. Through in vivo bioactivity-guided fractionation processes, n-butanol and aqueous fractions were found to exhibit prominent anti-diarrheal activities, and two major compounds, ellagic acid and corilagin, from these active fractions were found to possess anti-diarrheal effects.

CONCLUSION

Present study provides evidence of the utilization of Polygonum chinense L. for diarrhea, and ellagic acid and corilagin are two components contributing to the anti-diarrheal effect.

Influence of processing on pharmacokinetic of typical constituents in radix polygoni multiflori after oral administration by LC-ESI-MS/MS

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The processed radix polygoni multiflori (P-RPM) are produced from the raw radix polygoni multiflori (R-RPM) steamed with black bean juice, but the two traditional Chinese medicines are used to treat the different diseases in clinic. In order to clarify the influence of processing on pharmacological properties of radix polygoni multiflori, an investigation was carried out to compare the pharmacokinetics of typical constituents after oral administration of P-RPM and R-RPM extracts

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A simple, rapid and sensitive high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectroscopy (LC-MS/MS) was developed and validated for the simultaneous determination of gallic acid, polydatin, 2,3,5,4'-tetrahydroxystilbene-2-O-β-d-glucoside (PM-SG), resveratrol, and emodin in rat plasma. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were orally administered the two extracts with approximately the same dosage.

RESULTS

It was found that gallic acid was distributed as opened one-compartment model while polydatin, PM-SG and emodin were fitted to an open two-compartment model after oral administration of raw and processed radix polygoni multiflori extract. Cmax and AUC of gallic acid were increased (P<0.01), but Cmax and AUC of PM-SG were descreased (P<0.05). AUC of polydatin and emodin were similar with that of PM-SG. However, resveratrol was not detected in plasma collected at certain intervals following oral administration of the two extracts.

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicate that influence of the processing could improve the bioavailability of gallic acid and reduce the absorption of PM-SG, polydatin and emodin in rats. The LC-MS/MS method could be used to evaluate the effect of processing on pharmacokinetic of typical constituents in radix polygoni multiflori after oral administration.

Stilbene glucoside inhibits the glucuronidation of emodin in rats through the down-regulation of UDP-glucuronosyltransferases 1A8: application to a drug-drug interaction study in Radix Polygoni Multiflori

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The integrated effects of herbal medicines were the outcome of all of the inherent components. Currently, few studies have focused on the multicomponent interactions in an herbal medicine to elucidate its pharmacological and/or toxicological effects. In this study, an attempt was made to investigate the interaction between stilbene glucosides and the anthraquinones contained in Radix Polygoni Multiflori (RPM) and to explore the interaction's mechanism from the perspective of UDP-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) regulation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The extract of RPM was separated into a stilbene glucoside fraction and a emodin fraction. A rapid high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry method was developed and validated to disclose the influence of stilbene glucoside on the pharmacokinetics of emodin in rats. Drug and Statistics 2.0 was used for the estimation of the pharmacokinetic parameters. Gene expression analysis in liver and intestinal tissues was performed by a semi-quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) method.

RESULTS

The analytical method appeared to be suitable for the analysis of emodin with desirable linearity, accuracy, precision and stability, and the total analysis time was less than 2 min on a short column. Glucuronide of emodin, which is the major metabolite of emodin, was determined after β-glucuronidase hydrolysis. As the in vivo pharmacokinetic studies had indicated, the AUC, Cmax and T1/2 of emodin were increased after the stilbene glucoside treatment, and the glucuronidation of emodin was significantly inhibited. The mRNA levels from UGT1A8 and UGT1A2 were decreased by stilbene glucoside treatment. In contrast, the expression of UGT1A1, UGT1A6 and UGT1A9 mRNA was increased in the liver following treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

The influence of stilbene glucoside on the pharmacokinetics of emodin may be attributed to the inhibition of UGT1A8 mRNA expression. Thus, it is important to extend this research to deepen our understanding of the pharmacological and/or toxicological effects of RPM.

In vitro biological effects of two anti-diabetic medicinal plants used in Benin as folk medicine

BACKGROUND

Extracts from Polygonum senegalensis (Polygonaceae) and Pseudocedrela kotschyi (Meliaceae) are two important traditionally used medicinal plants in rural Benin to treat many diseases and notably type 2 diabetes. The aim of the study was to investigate the α-glucosidase inhibition, antioxidant and antibacterial activities of those plants extract: Polygonum senegalensis leaves, and Pseudocedrela kotschyi root.

METHODS

Hydro-alcoholic (50%) extracts were analyzed for their phytochemical content and tested for their inhibition potency on α-glucosidase from Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Antioxidant activities were assessed using the DPPH, ORAC, FRAP and DCFH-DA (cell based) assay. Finally, the antibacterial activity was evaluated using MIC determination on four Gram-positive cocci (Bacillus subtilis, Clostridium difficile, Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus), three Gram-negative bacilli (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae), and the yeast Candida albicans.

RESULTS

Each extract presented significant α-glucosidase inhibition and antioxidant activities. Polygonum senegalensis leaf extracts were the most active in each in vitro assay with an IC50 = 1.5 μg/ml for α-glucosidase inhibition and an IC50 = 6.8 μg/ml for DPPH scavenging, - 4.5 μmol Fe II/g of dry matter - 9366 μmol Trolox / g DW - for FRAP and ORAC values, respectively. IC50 = 2.3 μg GA / ml for DCFH-DA assay. Concerning its antibacterial activity, a growth inhibitory effect was observed only against three Gram negative bacilli: B. subtilis, E. faecalis, S. aureus and the yeast C. albicans at high concentration.

CONCLUSION

The results showed that the semi alcoholic extract of the two studied plants possess α-glucosidase inhibitory activity, antioxidant potency, and low antibacterial effect.

[Musk and carterii birdw enhance the effect of polygonum extract on chronic non-bacterial prostatitis: an animal experimental study]

OBJECTIVE

To observe the effects of musk and carterii birdw on the pathology and the expressions of inflammatory cytokines in chronic non-bacterial prostatitis (CNBP) rats treated with polygonum extract.

METHODS

Five male Wistar rats were used for the preparation of SC purified prostate protein solution, and another 48 randomly divided into four groups: polygonum extract, polygonum extract + musk and carterii birdw, CNBP model control and normal control. CNBP models were established by injecting SC purified prostate protein solution and Freund's complete adjuvant. At 60 days after modeling, the CNBP model control and normal control rats were treated with normal saline, and the other two groups with polygonum extract and polygonum extract + musk and carterii birdw, respectively (polygonum 1.575 g per kg per d, musk 0.021 g per kg per d, and carterii birdw 1.05 g per kg per d). After 14 days of continuous intragastric medication, all the rats were sacrificed for pathological examination, determination of the levels of TNF-alpha, IL-1beta, IL-6 and IL-8 in the prostate tissue homogenate by ELISA, and detection of the mRNA and protein expressions of inflammatory cytokines MCP-1 (CCL2) and CCR2 by RT-PCR and Western blot.

RESULTS

The polygonum extract + musk and carterii birdw group showed apparent improvement in the structure of the prostate tissue but no inflammatory infiltration, as was quite obvious in the polygonum extract group. Polygonum extract + musk and carterii birdw significantly decreased the inflammatory cytokines TNF-alpha ( [11.04 +/- 4.07] pg/ml), IL-1beta ([16.94 +/- 4.26] pg/ml), IL-6 ([110.08 +/- 28.42] pg/ml) and IL-8 ([26.28 +/- 7.36] pg/ml) in the prostate tissue, as compared with polygonum extract alone ([63.21 +/- 21.37] pg/ml, [41.32 +/- 14.62] pg/ml, [177.64 +/- 42.65] pg/ml and [96.37 +/- 37.61] pg/ml) (P < 0.05, P < 0.01). The former also exhibited significantly lower expressions of MCP-1 mRNA (0.32 +/- 0.17), MCP-1 protein (0.28 +/- 0.15), CCR2 mRNA (0.28 +/- 0.11) and CCR2 protein (0.11 +/- 0.04) than either the model control group (1.15 +/- 0.39, 0.93 +/- 0.34, 0.83 +/- 0.26 and 0.93 +/- 0.34) (P < 0.01), or the polygonum extract group (0.65 +/- 0.27, 0.56 +/- 0.22, 0.78 +/- 0.24 and 0.25 +/- 0.09) (P < 0.05, P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Musk and carterii birdw can enhance the effect of polygonum extract on chronic prostatitis, reduce inflammatory response and improve tissue repair of the prostate in rats.

Lipid regulation effects of Polygoni Multiflori Radix, its processed products and its major substances on steatosis human liver cell line L02

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Raw and processed Polygoni Multiflori Radix (PMR) are used in the prevention and treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), hyperlipidemia or related diseases. However, few researches compared the activities of raw and processed PMR on lipid metabolism regulation. Moreover, the active substances of Polygonum multiflorum are still not clearly elucidated.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this research, a sensitive, accurate and rapid in vitro model, steatosis hepatic L02 cell, was applied to compare the relative activities of raw and processed PMR on lipid metabolism regulation. Furthermore, the lipid regulation activities of emodin, physcion and 2,3,5,4'-tetrahydroxy-stilbene-2-O-β-d-glucoside (TSG) were evaluated. The steatosis L02 cells were obtained after cultured with 1% fat emulsion-10% fetal bovine serum (FBS)-RPMI 1640 medium for 48h. Contents of total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) in L02 cells are evaluated after exposure.

RESULTS

The intracellular TG contents were increased from 16.50±1.29mmol/L to 34.40±1.36mmol/L in steatosis L02 cells, while the intracellular contents of TC were increased from 5.07±1.80mmol/L to 11.79±0.54mmol/L. Water extract of raw PMR showed much remarkable TG-regulation and TC-regulation effects than its processed products. Emodin displayed the best TG regulation activity while TSG showed the best TC regulation activity. At the same time, the exposure of emodin and physcion could reduce the LDL-C contents in steatosis L02 cells.

CONCLUSIONS

On account of these in vitro results, raw PMR might have more satisfactory effects in clinic treatment of NAFLD or hyperlipidemia characterized by the elevation of cholesterol than processed PMR.

Anti-oxidation activity of the crude polysaccharides isolated from Polygonum cillinerve (Nakai) Ohwi in immunosuppressed mice

AIM OF THE STUDY

Polygonum cillinerve (Nakai) Ohwi is commonly used in China for over 2000 years. Previous research has shown that the crude polysaccharides extracted from Polygonum cillinerve (Nakai) Ohwi (PCCP) have the scavenging free radicals and anti-tumor activities in vitro. In present study, PCCP were further approached the perspective of their anti-oxidation in immunosuppressed mice.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

ICR mice were treated firstly with cyclophosphamide (CY, 150 mg/kg), 1 day later, treated with different dosages of PCCP or saline solution once daily for 21 days. Twenty-four hours later for the last drug administration, the animals were weighed, and then killed by decapitation. The liver, spleen, and thymus indices were investigated, and the biochemical parameters were evaluated for various tissues (liver, heart, and kidney).

RESULTS

The administration of PCCP with gavage was able to overcome the cyclophosphamide-induced immunosuppression, and significantly to raise the TOC, CAT, SOD, and GSH-Px level. It also raised the liver, spleen, and thymus indices, and decreased the MDA level in mice.

CONCLUSIONS

PCCP possess the pronounced free radical-scavenging and antioxidant activities, and could play an important role in the prevention of oxidative damage in immunological system.

Analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities of Polygonum stagninum

The n-hexane, ethyl acetate (EtOAc), and methanol extracts of the aerial parts of Polygonum stagninum Buch.-Ham. ex Meissn. (Polygonaceae), a Bangladeshi medicinal plant, were assessed for analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties in experimental mice and/or rat models. In the acetic-acid-induced writhing test in mice, all extracts displayed a dose dependent analgesic effect. The most potent analgesic activity was observed with the EtOAc extract at the dose of 400 mg/kg body weight, with an inhibition of writhing response of 50.3% compared to 62.2% for the positive control aminopyrine. Among the extracts, n-hexane extract at the doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight showed the highest levels of anti-inflammatory activity after 2 h, with the inhibition of paw edema of 60.1% and 64.1%, respectively, and this effect was much better than that of the conventional anti-inflammatory agent phenylbutazone (maximum inhibition of 38.3% after 4 h).

Toxic hepatitis induced by show-wu-pian, a Chinese herbal preparation

Herbal preparations are widely available and often regarded by the public as harmless remedies for a variety of medical ailments. However, some of these products or their metabolites can cause adverse effects such as liver damage. In this case report a 53-year-old female taking shou-wu-pian for 8 months presented with acute hepatitis. Histopathological assessment of liver tissue obtained by biopsy was consistent with a toxic reaction. Clinical and biochemical resolution was brought about following cessation of the drug. It is important for clinicians to consider Chinese herbal preparations as a potential cause of abnormal liver function test results.

Protection by tetrahydroxystilbene glucoside against cerebral ischemia: involvement of JNK, SIRT1, and NF-kappaB pathways and inhibition of intracellular ROS/RNS generation

Many natural polyphenolic compounds have been shown to attenuate reactive oxygen/nitrogen species (ROS/RNS) formation and protect against ischemia/reperfusion injury both in vitro and in vivo. 2,3,5,4'-tetrahydroxystilbene-2-O-beta-D-glucoside (TSG), an active component of the rhizome extract from Polygonum multiflorum, exhibits antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects. Here, we used an in vitro ischemic model of oxygen-glucose deprivation followed by reperfusion (OGD-R) and an in vivo ischemic model of middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) to investigate the neuroprotective effects of TSG on ischemia/reperfusion brain injury and the related mechanisms. We demonstrated that OGD-R-induced neuronal injury, intracellular ROS generation, and mitochondrial membrane potential dissipation were reversed by TSG. The elevation of H2O2-induced [Ca2+]i was also attenuated by TSG. Inhibition of the c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and Bcl-2 family-related apoptotic signaling pathway was involved in the neuroprotection afforded by TSG. Meanwhile, TSG inhibited iNOS mRNA expression induced by OGD-R, which may be mediated by the activation of SIRT1 and inhibition of NF-kappaB activation. In vivo studies further demonstrated that TSG significantly reduced the brain infarct volume and the number of positive cells by TUNEL staining in the cerebral cortex compared to the MCAO group. Our study indicates that TSG protects against cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury through multifunctional cytoprotective pathways.

[Analysis depending uniform design on the major herbs in qushi huayu compound for anti-hepatic lipotoxicity]

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the major herbs in Qushi Huayu Compound (QHC) or its various assembles on the fatty deposition and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) secretion induced by free fatty acid (FFA) of human hepatic cancer cell line (HepG2) in vitro, for investigating the analytic methods in seeking the basic material in Chinese compound relevant to the pharmacological effect.

METHODS

The HepG2 cellular model of fatty deposition and TNF-alpha secretion induced by FFA and seropharmacological technique were adopted. Taking triglyceride (TG) and TNF-alpha inhibitory effect as the indexes of investigation, the effects of 10 combinations assembled by uniform design U1(11) (11(10)) form with drugs chosen from the five herbs in the QHC (oriental wormwood, cape-jasmine fruit, giant knotweed rhizome, Japanese St. John's wort herb and curcuma) were screened to seek the major herbs or optimal combination, which were then validated by grouping in interval.

RESULTS

High dosage combination of oriental wormwood and Japanese St. John's wort herb remarkably reduced the TG and TNF-alpha content in the model cells, with the effect insignificantly different from the whole compound. Moreover, single use of oriental wormwood showed a similar effect.

CONCLUSION

Oriental wormwood and its combination with Japanese St. John's wort herb are the major herb/optimum combination in QHC for inhibiting fatty deposition and TNF-alpha secretion in hepatic lipo-toxicity model. The major herb or optimal combination in a certain Chinese compound acted on some sticking point could be discovered by adopting uniform design and pharmacodynamics analytic technique.

A new chromone glycoside from Polygonum capitatum

A new chromone glycoside (1), 7-O-(6'-galloyl)-beta-D-glucopyranosyl-5-hydroxychromone was isolated from Polygonum capitatum.

β-Glucosidase inhibitory activities of phenylpropanoid glycosides, vanicoside A and B from Polygonum sachalinense rhizome

The phenylpropanoid glycosides, vanicoside A and B, isolated from rhizomes of giant knotweed (Polygonum sachalinense) showed beta-glucosidase inhibitory activity, with IC(50) values of 59.8 and 48.3 mug/ml (59.9 and 50.5 muM), respectively. In contrast, p-coumaric acid and ferulic acid, corresponding to phenylpropanoyl moieties of vanicosides, exhibited very little inhibition.

[Effect of polygonum multiflorum thunb on BDNF expression in rat hippocampus induced by amyloid beta-protein (Abeta) 1-40]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the effect of polygonum multiflorum thunb (PMT) on the expression of brain-drived neurtrophic factor (BDNF) in hippocampus CA1 in rats induced by Abeta1-40.

METHODS

The rat model was established by injecting Abeta1-40 into the right dorsal hippocampus in rats, and their behavior was observed by Y-maze. The morphological changes of rat hippocampus were examined by the Nissl staining. The expression of BDNF in hippocampus CA1 neurons was also examined by immunohistochemistry and Western blot.

RESULTS

After the administration of Abeta1-40, the times of rats learning how to elude electric stimulation were significantly increased, and the expression of BDNF in hippocampus CA1 were obviously reduced. The aggregation of Abeta1-40 in hippocampus and the morphological changes of CA1 hippocampus were found. After the treatment with PMT for 30 days, the times learning how to elude electric stimulation were obviously reduced, while the expression of BDNF in hippocampus CA1 was also increased.

CONCLUSION

PMT can reverse the down-regulation of BDNF expression in hippocampus CA1 induced by Abeta1-40.

Protective effect of Polygonum multiflorum Thunb on amyloid beta-peptide 25-35 induced cognitive deficits in mice

Amyloid beta protein (Abeta) may be neurotoxic during the progression of Alzheimer's disease by eliciting oxidative stress. This study was designed to determine the effect of Polygonum multiflorum Thunb water extract (PWE) on Abeta25-35-induced cognitive deficits and oxidative stress in mice. Mice were fed experimental diets comprising either 0.5 or 1% PWE for 4 weeks, and then received a single intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) injection of Abeta25-35 (10 microg/mouse). Behavioral changes in the mice were evaluated using passive avoidance and water-maze tests. The consumption of PWE significantly ameliorated the cognitive deficits caused by i.c.v. injection of Abeta25-35. The Abeta25-35 treatment accelerated the lipid peroxidation, and PWE attenuated the Abeta-induced increase in brain levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances. There was an increase in glutathione peroxidase activity in PWE-treated groups. The acetylcholinesterase activity in the brain and serum was lower in PWE supplemented groups than in the only Abeta-injected group. These findings suggest that PWE exerts a preventive effect against cognitive deficits induced by Abeta25-35 accumulation in Alzheimer's disease, and that this effect is mediated by the antioxidant properties of PWE.

Vegetative and structural characteristics of agricultural drainages in the Mississippi Delta landscapes

Agricultural drainage ditches in the Mississippi Alluvial Delta landscape vary from edge-of-field waterways to sizeable drainages. Ditch attributes vary with size, location and maintenance and may aid in mitigation of contaminants from agricultural fields. The goal of this study was to better understand how vegetative characteristics affect water quality in conveyance structures in the context of ditch class and surrounding land use. Characterization of 36 agricultural ditches included presence of riparian buffer strips, water depth, surrounding land use, vegetative cover, and associated aqueous physicochemical parameters. Vegetation was assessed quantitatively, obtaining stem counts in a sub-sample of ditch sites, using random quadrat method. Physical features varied with ditch size and vegetative diversity was higher in larger structures. Polygonum sp. was the dominant bed vegetation and was ubiquitous among site sizes. Macrophytes varied from aquatic to upland species, and included Leersia sp. and upland grasses (Poaceae family) in all drainage size classes. Percent cover of bed and bank varied from 0 to 100% and 70 to 100%, respectively, and highest nutrient values were measured in sites with no buffer strips. These conveyance structures and surrounding buffer zones are being ranked for their ability to reduce excess nutrients, suspended solids, and pesticides associated with runoff.

Bond durability of resin cements to Au-Pd-Ag alloy under cyclic impact load

The bond durability of resin cements to a 12% Au-Pd-Ag alloy was studied through cyclic impact tests with different loads. A piece of casting alloy was bonded to a cast block with two types of resin cements, Super Bond C&B and Bistite II. A shear load was applied onto a small piece of alloy until debonding of the specimen, using different weights of plungers, 130 g, 230 g, 330 g and 430 g. The specimen bonded with Super Bond exhibited a higher resistance than that with Bistite II. The fracture modes of the debonded cements were completely different from each other. That is, Bistite II showed a bulk fracture of cement by the crack penetrating through the cement layer. On the other hand, Super Bond showed damages limited to the surface and no bulk fracture. The mode of fracture was dependent not on the loading weight but the types of resin cements used.

Evaluating the efficacy and safety of Danning Pian in the short-term treatment of patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: a multicenter clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Currently, the management of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is less than certain. Some choleretic might be of potential benefit and deserve further evaluation. This multicenter clinical trial was designed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Chinese herbal medicine Danning Pian (composed of rhubarb, grant knotweed, dried green orange peel and dried old orange peel) in the short-term treatment of patients with NAFLD.

METHODS

The efficacy and safety of Danning Pian in the short-term treatment of NAFLD were investigated in 232 patients by a multicenter clinical trial during the period of July 1999 to February 2000. The patients consisting of 189 males and 43 females with an average age of 46.1+/-8.7 years were given 3-5 tablets of Danning Pian orally thrice daily for 3 months in addition to the other comprehensive therapy. The effects of Danning Pian on NAFLD were evaluated by the improvement of clinical symptoms, blood lipids, hepatic enzymes and liver ultrasonographic features. The drug safety was monitored by physical examinations, vital signs, and laboratory tests in addition to the assessment of the adverse events.

RESULTS

All the enrolled patients completed the study except one whose serum ALT level was moderately increased during the therapy with Danning Pian. The effective rate of Danning Pian for the improvement of clinical symptoms, serum ALT levels, blood lipid and fatty liver was 85.8%, 78.2%, 39.6% and 34.0% respectively after the therapy for 3 months. However, the reduction of excessive body weight and waistline did not reach the significant level on the whole after the therapy. The general mild adverse events included diarrhea, skin rash and mild to moderate elevation of serum ALT level. The incidence of adverse reaction was 15.1%.

CONCLUSION

The data of this trial indicate that Danning Pian is effective and safe, generally well-tolerated without severe adverse events, in the treatment of patients with NAFLD over a 3-month period.