Wogonin, baicalin, and baicalein inhibition of inducible nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase-2 gene expressions induced by nitric oxide synthase inhibitors and lipopolysaccharide

Induction of endothelium-dependent constriction of mesenteric arteries in endotoxemic hypotensive shock

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Effective management of hypotension refractory to vasoconstrictors in severe sepsis is limited. A new strategy to ameliorate endotoxemic hypotension by inducing endothelium-dependent constriction of large arteries was assessed.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Endotoxemia in rats was induced by injection of LPS (10 mg·kg(-1), i.v.). Haemodynamics were measured in vivo, reactivity of isolated mesenteric arteries by myography and expression of proteins and enzyme activities by immunohistochemistry, biochemistry and molecular biology.

KEY RESULTS

Six hours after LPS, the hypotension was promptly reversed following injection (i.v. or i.p.) of oroxylin-A (OroA) . In isolated LPS-treated but not normal mesenteric arteries, OroA (1-10 μM) induced endothelium-dependent, sustained constriction, blocked by endothelin-1 (ET-1) receptor antagonists. OroA further enhanced LPS-induced expression of endothelin-converting enzyme, ET-1 mRNA and proteins and ET-1 release, OroA also enhanced phosphorylation of Rho-associated protein kinase (ROCK) and reversed LPS-induced suppression of RhoA activities in smooth muscle of arteries with endothelium. Activated- phosphorylation of smooth muscle ROCK was blocked by ET-1-receptor antagonists and ROCK inhibitors. Moreover, OroA post-treatment suppressed, via inhibiting NF-κB activation, inducible NOS expression and circulating NO.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Reversal of endotoxemic hypotensive by OroA was due to release of endothelial ET-1, upregulated by LPS, from mesenteric arteries, inducing prompt and sustained vasoconstriction via activation of vascular smooth muscle RhoA/ROCK-pathway. In late endotoxemia, OroA-induced vasoconstriction was partly due to decreased circulating NO. Activation of endothelium-dependent constriction in large resistance arteries and suppression of systemic inflammation offer new strategies for acute management of endotoxemic hypotensive shock.

Structure elucidation of a bioactive polysaccharide from fruiting bodies of Hericium erinaceus in different maturation stages

HPB-3, a heteropolysaccharide, with a mean molecular weight of 1.5×10(4)Da, was obtained from the maturating-stage IV, V and VI fruiting body of Hericium erinaceus, exhibited higher macrophages stimulation activities, was able to upregulate the functional events mediated by activated macrophages, such as production of nitric oxide (NO). Monosaccharide composition analysis showed that HPB-3 comprised l-fucose, d-galactose and d-glucose in the ratio of 5.2:23.9:1. Its chemical structure was characterized by sugar and methylation analysis, along with (1)H and (13)C NMR spectroscopy, including (1)H-(1)H COSY, TOCSY, NOESY, HMQC and HMBC experiments. The results indicated that HPB-3 contained a-(1/6)-linked galactopyranosyl backbone, partially with a side chain composed of α-l-fucopyranose at the O-2 position. The predicted primary structure of the polysaccharide was established as below.

Anti-inflammatory effects of Baicalin, Baicalein, and Wogonin in vitro and in vivo

Here, three structurally related polyphenols found in the Chinese herb Huang Qui, namely baicalin, baicalein, and wogonin, were examined for its effects on inflammatory responses by monitoring the effects of baicalin, baicalein, and wogonin on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-mediated vascular inflammatory responses. We found that each compound inhibited LPS-induced barrier disruption, expression of cell adhesion molecules (CAMs), and adhesion/transendothelial migration of monocytes to human endothelial cells. Each compound induced potent inhibition of phorbol-12-myristate 13-acetate and LPS-induced endothelial cell protein C receptor shedding. It also suppressed LPS-induced hyperpermeability and leukocytes migration in vivo. Furthermore, each compound suppressed the production of tumor necrosis factor-α or interleukin-6 and the activation of nuclear factor-κB or extracellular regulated kinases 1/2 by LPS. Moreover, treatment with each compound resulted in reduced LPS-induced lethal endotoxemia. These results suggest that baicalin, baicalein, and wogonin posses anti-inflammatory functions by inhibiting hyperpermeability, expression of CAMs, and adhesion and migration of leukocytes, thereby endorsing its usefulness as a therapy for vascular inflammatory diseases.

Determination of cytotoxicity of traditional Chinese medicine herbs, Rhizoma coptidis, Radix scutellariae, and Cortex phellodendri, by three methods

BACKGROUND

Many herbs are used in traditional Chinese medicine TCM) for treatment of infections but their properties, in particular, their effects on normal cells have received little attention. This study investigated the cytotoxic properties of three TCM herbs with potential use in prevention and treatment of ocular infections, including Acanthamoeba keratitis.

METHOD

The study investigated cytotoxic effects of the herbal extracts of Rhizoma coptidis, Radix scutellariae, and Cortex phellodendri on human corneal epithelial cells using trypan blue staining, MTT production, and flow cytometry. Differences between herbs were determined using repeated measures one-way analysis of variance, followed by paired t-tests where appropriate.

RESULTS

These three herbs appeared to lack cytotoxicity when tested with trypan blue and MTT, but flow cytometry revealed that R. coptidis led to cell membrane damage.

CONCLUSION

Lack of cytotoxicity of R. scutellariae and C. phellodendri extracts suggest that these are potentially suitable for use in ocular preparations. Only flow cytometry was able to accurately predict cytotoxic effects of extracts of TCM herbs on HCEC, demonstrating the importance of using a sensitive method of detection of cytotoxicity.

Non-Nutrient, Naturally Occurring Phenolic Compounds with Antioxidant Activity for the Prevention and Treatment of Periodontal Diseases

One of the main factors able to explain the pathophysiological mechanism of inflammatory conditions that occur in periodontal disease is oxidative stress. Given the emerging understanding of this relationship, host-modulatory therapies using antioxidants could be interesting to prevent or slow the breakdown of soft and hard periodontal tissues. In this context, non-nutrient phenolic compounds of various foods and plants have received considerable attention in the last decade. Here, studies focusing on the relationship between different compounds of this type with periodontal disease have been collected. Among them, thymoquinone, coenzyme Q (CoQ), mangiferin, resveratrol, verbascoside and some flavonoids have shown to prevent or ameliorate periodontal tissues damage in animal models. However evidence regarding this effect in humans is poor and only limited to topical treatments with CoQ and catechins. Along with animal experiments, in vitro studies indicate that possible mechanisms by which these compounds might exert their protective effects include antioxidative properties, oxygen and nitrogen scavenging abilities, and also inhibitory effects on cell signaling cascades related to inflammatory processes which have an effect on RNS or ROS production as well as on antioxidant defense systems.

Dietary phytochemicals alter epigenetic events and signaling pathways for inhibition of metastasis cascade: phytoblockers of metastasis cascade

Cancer metastasis is a multistep process in which a cancer cell spreads from the site of the primary lesion, passes through the circulatory system, and establishes a secondary tumor at a new nonadjacent organ or part. Inhibition of cancer progression by dietary phytochemicals (DPs) offers significant promise for reducing the incidence and mortality of cancer. Consumption of DPs in the diet has been linked to a decrease in the rate of metastatic cancer in a number of preclinical animal models and human epidemiological studies. DPs have been reported to modulate the numerous biological events including epigenetic events (noncoding micro-RNAs, histone modification, and DNA methylation) and multiple signaling transduction pathways (Wnt/β-catenin, Notch, Sonic hedgehog, COX-2, EGFR, MAPK-ERK, JAK-STAT, Akt/PI3K/mTOR, NF-κB, AP-1, etc.), which can play a key role in regulation of metastasis cascade. Extensive studies have also been performed to determine the molecular mechanisms underlying antimetastatic activity of DPs, with results indicating that these DPs have significant inhibitory activity at nearly every step of the metastatic cascade. DPs have anticancer effects by inducing apoptosis and by inhibiting cell growth, migration, invasion, and angiogenesis. Growing evidence has also shown that these natural agents potentiate the efficacy of chemotherapy and radiotherapy through the regulation of multiple signaling pathways. In this review, we discuss the variety of molecular mechanisms by which DPs regulate metastatic cascade and highlight the potentials of these DPs as promising therapeutic inhibitors of cancer.

Network pharmacology study on the mechanism of traditional Chinese medicine for upper respiratory tract infection

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is a multi-component and multi-target agent and could treat complex diseases in a holistic way, especially infection diseases. However, the underlying pharmacology remains unclear. Fortunately, network pharmacology by integrating system biology and polypharmacology provides a strategy to address this issue. In this work, Reduning Injection (RDN), a well-used TCM treatment in the clinic for upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs), was investigated to interpret the molecular mechanism and predict new clinical directions by integrating molecular docking, network analysis and cell-based assays. 32 active ingredients and 38 potential targets were identified. In vitro experiments confirmed the bioactivities of the compounds against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated PGE2 and NO production in RAW264.7 cells. Moreover, network analysis showed that RDN could not only inhibit viral replication but also alleviate the sickness symptoms of URTIs through directly targeting the key proteins in the respiratory viral life cycle and indirectly regulating host immune systems. In addition, other clinical applications of RDN such as neoplasms, cardiovascular diseases and immune system diseases were predicted on the basis of the relationships between targets and diseases.

Biological evaluation and molecular docking of baicalin and scutellarin as Helicobacter pylori urease inhibitors

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Baicalin and scutellarin are the principal bioactive components of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi which has extensively been incorporated into heat-clearing and detoxification formulas for the treatment of Helicobacter pylori-related gastrointestinal disorders in traditional Chinese medicine. However, the mechanism of action remained to be defined.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To explore the inhibitory effect, kinetics and mechanism of Helicobacter pylori urease (the vital pathogenetic factor for Helicobacter pylori infection) inhibition by baicalin and scutellarin, for their therapeutic potential.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The ammonia formations, indicator of urease activity, were examined using modified spectrophotometric Berthelot (phenol-hypochlorite) method. The inhibitory effect of baicalin and scutellarin was characterized with IC50 values, compared to acetohydroxamic acid (AHA), a well known Helicobacter pylori urease inhibitor. Lineweaver-Burk and Dixon plots for the Helicobacter pylori urease inhibition of baicalin and scutellarin was constructed from the kinetic data. SH-blocking reagents and competitive active site Ni(2+) binding inhibitors were employed for mechanism study. Molecular docking technique was used to provide some information on binding conformations as well as confirm the inhibition mode. Moreover, cytotoxicity experiment using Gastric Epithelial Cells (GES-1) was evaluated.

RESULTS

Baicalin and scutellarin effectively suppressed Helicobacter pylori urease in dose-dependent and time-independent manner with IC50 of 0.82±0.07 mM and 0.47±0.04 mM, respectively, compared to AHA (IC50=0.14±0.05 mM). Structure-activity relationship disclosed 4'-hydroxyl gave flavones an advantage to binding with Helicobacter pylori urease. Kinetic analysis revealed that the types of inhibition were non-competitive and reversible with inhibition constant Ki of 0.14±0.01 mM and 0.18±0.02 mM for baicalin and scutellarin, respectively. The mechanism of urease inhibition was considered to be blockage of the SH groups of Helicobacter pylori urease, since thiol reagents (L,D-dithiothreitol, L-cysteine and glutathione) abolished the inhibitory action and competitive active site Ni(2+) binding inhibitors (boric acid and sodium fluoride) carried invalid effect. Molecular docking study further supported the structure-activity analysis and indicated that baicalin and scutellarin interacted with the key residues Cys321 located on the mobile flap through S-H·π interaction, but did not interact with active site Ni(2+). Moreover, Baicalin (at 0.59-1.05 mM concentrations) and scutellarin (at 0.23-0.71 mM concentrations) did not exhibit significant cytotoxicity to GES-1.

CONCLUSIONS

Baicalin and scutellarin were non-competitive inhibitors targeting sulfhydryl groups especially Cys321 around the active site of Helicobacter pylori urease, representing potential to be good candidate for future research as urease inhibitor for treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection. Furthermore, our work gave additional scientific support to the use of Scutellaria baicalensis in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) to treat gastrointestinal disorders.

C-8 Mannich base derivatives of baicalein display improved glucuronidation stability: exploring the mechanism by experimentation and theoretical calculations

The glucuronidation of 7-OH is blocked by the intramolecular hydrogen bond between 7-OH and C-8 Mannich base substituent in BA-a.

Baicalein prevents human prion protein-induced neuronal cell death by regulating JNK activation

Prion diseases are neurodegenerative disorders characterized by the accumulation of an abnormal isoform of the protease-insensitive isoform (PrPSc) of prion protein. Human prion protein fragment 106‑126 [PrP (106‑126)] contains most of the pathological characteristics associated with PrPSc. Although a number of compounds have been identified to inhibit PrP accumulation or dissolve fibrils and aggregates in vitro, there is currenlty no treatment available for these progressive neurodegenerative diseases. Baicalein, the dried root of Scutellaria baicalensis (S. baicalensis) Georgi (known as Huang-qin in traditional Chinese medicine) has been reported to exert neuroprotective effects on neurodegenerative diseases. In the present study, we investigated the effects of baicalein on the development of prion diseases using SH-SY5Y and SK-N-SH cells in vitro. We found that baicalein protected the cells against PrP‑induced neuronal cell death by inhibiting the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitochondrial dysfunction using ROS detection assay and MTP assay. We demonstrated that baicalein treatment regulated the phosphorylation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) by using western blot analysis and Annexin V assay. Our data suggest that baicalein has potential for use as a therapeutic drug for the treatment of various neurodegenerative diseases, including prion diseases.

Wogonin prevents lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung injury and inflammation in mice via peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma-mediated attenuation of the nuclear factor-kappaB pathway

Acute lung injury (ALI) from a variety of clinical disorders, characterized by diffuse inflammation, is a cause of acute respiratory failure that develops in patients of all ages. Previous studies reported that wogonin, a flavonoid-like chemical compound which was found in Scutellaria baicalensis, has anti-inflammatory effects in several inflammation models, but not in ALI. Here, the in vivo protective effect of wogonin in the amelioration of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) -induced lung injury and inflammation was assessed. In addition, the in vitro effects and mechanisms of wogonin were studied in the mouse macrophage cell lines Ana-1 and RAW264.7. In vivo results indicated that wogonin attenuated LPS-induced histological alterations. Peripheral blood leucocytes decreased in the LPS-induced group, which was ameliorated by wogonin. In addition, wogonin inhibited the production of several inflammatory cytokines, including tumour necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and IL-6, in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and lung tissues after LPS challenge, while the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) inhibitor GW9662 reversed these effects. In vitro results indicated that wogonin significantly decreased the secretion of IL-6, IL-1β and tumour necrosis factor-α in Ana-1 and RAW264.7 cells, which was suppressed by transfection of PPARγ small interfering RNA and GW9662 treatment. Moreover, wogonin activated PPARγ, induced PPARγ-mediated attenuation of the nuclear translocation and the DNA-binding activity of nuclear factor-κB in vivo and in vitro. In conclusion, all of these results showed that wogonin may serve as a promising agent for the attenuation of ALI-associated inflammation and pathology by regulating the PPARγ-involved nuclear factor-κB pathway.

Vascular barrier protective effects of baicalin, baicalein and wogonin in vitro and in vivo

Inhibition of high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) protein and restoration of endothelial integrity is emerging as an attractive therapeutic strategy in the management of sepsis. Here, three structurally related polyphenols found in the Chinese herb Huang Qui, baicalin (BCL), baicalein (BCN), and wogonin (WGN), were examined for their effects on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)- or cecal ligation and puncture (CLP)-mediated release of HMGB1 and on modulation of HMGB1-mediated inflammatory responses. According to our data, BCL, BCN, and WGN inhibited the release of HMGB1 and down-regulated HMGB1-dependent inflammatory responses in human endothelial cells. BCL, BCN, and WGN also inhibited HMGB1-mediated hyperpermeability and leukocyte migration in mice. In addition, treatment with BCL, BCN, and WGN reduced CLP-induced release of HMGB1 and sepsis-related mortality and pulmonary injury in mice. These results indicate that BCL, BCN, and WGN could be candidate therapeutic agents for various severe vascular inflammatory diseases owing to their inhibition of the HMGB1 signaling pathway.

Baicalein Inhibits HMGB1 Release and MMP-2/-9 Expression in Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Cardiac Hypertrophy

Myocardial dysfunction, a common complication after sepsis, significantly contributes to the death of patients with septic shock. In the search for potentially effective drugs to decrease mortality from sepsis, we investigated the cardioprotective effects of baicalein, a flavonoid present in the root of Scutellaria baicalensis, on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced pro-inflammatory cytokine production and matrix metalloproteinase-2 and -9 (MMP-2/-9) expression. We found that baicalein significantly attenuated LPS-induced cardiac hypertrophy and counteracted reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in neonatal rat cardiomyocytes. In addition, pretreatment with baicalein inhibited LPS-induced early (e.g., tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6) and late (e.g., high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) pro-inflammatory cytokine release, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression and NO production. Finally, baicalein also significantly down-regulated the expression of MMP-2/-9 and attenuated HMGB1 translocation from the nucleus to the cytoplasm. These results suggest that baicalein can protect cardiomyocytes from LPS-induced cardiac injury via the inhibition of ROS and inflammatory cytokine production. These cardioprotective effects are possibly mediated through the inhibition of the HMGB1 and MMP-2/-9 signaling pathways.

Baicalein ameliorates inflammatory-related apoptotic and catabolic phenotypes in human chondrocytes

Osteoarthritis (OA), characterized by progressive destruction of articular cartilage, is the most common form of human arthritis and a major concern for aging societies worldwide. In OA, pro-inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin (IL)-1β and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α can trigger the caspase cascade to promote apoptosis and activate NF-κB to induce catabolic factors in chondrocytes. Here, the anti-apoptotic and anti-catabolic effects of baicalein on human OA chondrocytes treated by a mixture of IL-1β and TNF-α (IT) were investigated in vitro. In cultured chondrocytes, baicalein pretreatment attenuated apoptosis in a concentration-dependent manner in response to IT stimulation. Mechanistically, the anti-apoptotic effects of baicalein result from inhibition of nitric oxide production and downstream caspase signaling pathway. Moreover, administration of baicalein significantly reduced matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) 3 and MMP13 secretion in chondrocytes stimulated with IT. The anti-catabolic effects of baicalein were further demonstrated by the recovery of the glycosaminoglycan and type II collagen (COLII) deposition by histological analysis in IT-treated mouse articular cartilage explants. These findings suggest that baicalein might be a promising novel therapeutic agent for OA by virtue of its suppression of apoptosis and MMP secretion in OA chondrocytes.

Scutellaria baicalensis in stroke management: nature's blessing in traditional Eastern medicine

Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi is the most widely used medicinal plant in traditional Eastern medicine, especially in Chinese medicine. The major phytochemicals isolated from S. baicalensis are flavonoids, glycosides and their glucoronides such as baicalin, baicalein, wogonin etc. More than 30 different kinds of flavonoids are isolated from this plant. S. baicalensis and its flavonoids are reported to have several pharmacological activities, which includes anti-allergic, antioxidant, anti apoptic, anti-inflammatory effects and many more. Recently, S. baicalensis and its isolated flavonoids have been studied for their neuroprotective effects, through a variety of in vitro and in vivo models of neurodegenerative diseases, plausibly suggesting that S. baicalensis has salutary effect as a nature's blessing for neuroprotection. In this review, we are focousing on the neuroprotective effects of S. baicalensis and its flavonoids in ischemia or stroke-induced neuronal cell death. We aimed at compiling all the information regarding the neuroprotective effect of S. baicalensis in various experimental models of cerebral ischemia or stroke.

Novel therapeutic strategies for traumatic brain injury: acute antioxidant reinforcement

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is the most important cause of disability in individuals under the age of 45 years and thus represents a significant social and economic burden. Evidence strongly suggests that oxidative stress is a cornerstone event leading to and propagating secondary injury mechanisms such as excitotoxicity, mitochondrial dysfunction, apoptosis, autophagy, brain edema, and inflammation. TBI has defied conventional approaches to diagnosis and therapy development because of its heterogeneity and complexity. Therefore, it is necessary to explore alternative approaches to therapy development for TBI. The aim of this review is to present a therapeutic approach for TBI, taking into account the evidence supporting the role for oxidative stress in the pathophysiological processes of secondary brain injury. The role of agents such as mitochondria-targeted antioxidants (melatonin and new mitochondria-targeted antioxidants), nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) inhibitors (antioxidant vitamins and apocynin), and other compounds having mainly antioxidant properties (hydrogen-rich saline, sulforaphane, U-83836E, omega-3, and polyphenols) is covered. The rationale for innovative antioxidant therapies based on current knowledge and particularly the most recent studies regarding this field is discussed. Particular considerations and translational potential of new TBI treatments are examined and a novel therapeutic proposal for TBI is presented.

Influence of mefenamic acid on the intestinal absorption and metabolism of three bioactive flavones in Radix Scutellariae and potential pharmacological impact

CONTEXT

Mefenamic acid (MEF) and the dried root of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi (Radix Scutellariae, RS) share a high possibility of combined medication to treat inflammation.

OBJECTIVE

The present study investigates the impact of MEF on absorption/disposition of three major components in RS (baicalein, B; wogonin, W; oroxylin A, OA) and further pharmacological changes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The apparent permeability (P(app)) and percentage of metabolism of B, W and OA at 10 μΜ were measured at the absence/presence of MEF (100 μΜ) in the Caco-2 cell monolayer model. A modified whole blood assay was employed to quantify prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂) 4, 6 and 8 h post-oral administration with water suspension of MEF at 40 mg/kg and RS at 200 mg/kg.

RESULTS

In the presence of MEF, Papp of B, W and OA were increased from 1.69 ± 0.89 × 10⁻⁶, 1.57 ± 0.10 × 10⁻⁶ and 3.09 ± 0.70 × 10⁻⁶ cm/sec to 5.24 ± 0.27 × 10⁻⁶, 6.08 ± 0.19 × 10⁻⁶ and 4.13 ± 0.38 × 10⁻⁶, whereas their percentage of metabolism was decreased from 72.75 ± 2.44%, 73.27 ± 3.25% and 89.84 ± 2.99% to 21.11 ± 0.69%, 17.90 ± 5.55% and 45.44 ± 3.38%. PGE2 level was much lower in the co-administration group (49.04 ± 2.03 pg/ml) than in the MEF group (73.13 ± 3.03 pg/ml) or RS group (494.37 ± 11.75 pg/ml) 4 h post MEF dosing, suggesting a synergic effect.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

Co-administration of MEF and RS could induce potential alterations in their pharmacokinetic profiles and anti-inflammatory effects.

Multitargeted Effects of Hangeshashinto for Treatment of Chemotherapy-Induced Oral Mucositis on Inducible Prostaglandin E2 Production in Human Oral Keratinocytes

Objective. Chemotherapy-induced oral mucositis (COM) is characterized by painful inflammation with prolonged damage that involves the pathological pain-evoking prostaglandin E2 (PGE2). We previously found that gargling with hangeshashinto (HST), a traditional Japanese medicine, was effective for the treatment of COM. However, little is known regarding the mechanisms. Our aim was to identify the active ingredients and clarify the characteristic effects of HST on the PGE2 system. Methods. Prostanoids produced by human oral keratinocytes (HOK) stimulated with IL-1β were measured by enzyme immunoassay. Active ingredients that regulate PGE2 production were identified and quantified by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and a culture system of HOK cells. Results. Inducible PGE2, PGD2, and PGF2α, metabolites of cyclooxygenase (COX) pathways, were reduced by HST (10-300 µg/mL) without inducing cytotoxicity. The active ingredients of HST were quantified by LC-MS/MS, and [6]-shogaol, [6]-gingerol, wogonin, baicalein, baicalin, and berberine were shown to reduce PGE2 production. A mixture of these 6 ingredients at concentrations equal to 300 µg/mL of HST strongly suppressed PGE2 production to the same level as HST. [6]-Shogaol and [6]-gingerol did not decrease COX-2 mRNA expression and mostly inhibited PGE2 metabolic activity in an assay using intact HOK cells, suggesting that they regulate PGE2 synthesis at the posttranscriptional level. Wogonin, baicalin, and berberine inhibited expression of COX-2 mRNA without affecting PGE2 metabolic activity. Moreover, wogonin, but not [6]-shogaol, suppressed phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (p38s and JNKs). Conclusions. These lines show that HST includes several PGE2-regulating ingredients that have different mechanisms and can function as a multicomponent and multitarget agent for treatment of COM, indicating that HST may be beneficial in a new medical strategy for COM treatment.

Pharmacological effects of active compounds on neurodegenerative disease with gastrodia and uncaria decoction, a commonly used poststroke decoction

Neurodegenerative diseases refer to the selective loss of neuronal systems in patients. The diseases cause high morbidity and mortality to approximately 22 million people worldwide and the number is expected to be tripled by 2050. Up to now, there is no effective prevention and treatment for the neurodegenerative diseases. Although some of the clinical therapies target at slowing down the progression of symptoms of the diseases, the general effectiveness of the drugs has been far from satisfactory. Traditional Chinese medicine becomes popular alternative remedies as it has been practiced clinically for more than thousands of years in China. As neurodegenerative diseases are mediated through different pathways, herbal decoction with multiple herbs is used as an effective therapeutic approach to work on multiple targets. Gastrodia and Uncaria Decoction, a popular TCM decoction, has been used to treat stroke in China. The decoction contains compounds including alkaloids, flavonoids, iridoids, carotenoids, and natural phenols, which have been found to possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, and antiapoptotic effects. In this review, we will summarize the recent publications of the pharmacological effects of these five groups of compounds. Understanding the mechanisms of action of these compounds may provide new treatment opportunities for the patients with neurodegenerative diseases.

Oroxylin A Induces BDNF Expression on Cortical Neurons through Adenosine A2A Receptor Stimulation: A Possible Role in Neuroprotection

Oroxylin A is a flavone isolated from a medicinal herb reported to be effective in reducing the inflammatory and oxidative stresses. It also modulates the production of brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in cortical neurons by the transactivation of cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB). As a neurotrophin, BDNF plays roles in neuronal development, differentiation, synaptogenesis, and neural protection from the harmful stimuli. Adenosine A2A receptor colocalized with BDNF in brain and the functional interaction between A2A receptor stimulation and BDNF action has been suggested. In this study, we investigated the possibility that oroxylin A modulates BDNF production in cortical neuron through the regulation of A2A receptor system. As ex-pected, CGS21680 (A2A receptor agonist) induced BDNF expression and release, however, an antagonist, ZM241385, prevented oroxylin A-induced increase in BDNF production. Oroxylin A activated the PI3K-Akt-GSK-3β signaling pathway, which is inhibited by ZM241385 and the blockade of the signaling pathway abolished the increase in BDNF production. The physiological roles of oroxylin A-induced BDNF production were demonstrated by the increased neurite extension as well as synapse formation from neurons. Overall, oroxylin A might regulate BDNF production in cortical neuron through A2A receptor stimulation, which promotes cellular survival, synapse formation and neurite extension.

Fever of unknown origin successfully treated by oren-gedoku-to (huanglian-jie-du-tang)

Oren-gedoku-to is a traditional medicine used for treating inflammatory conditions and is given by prescription in Japan, People’s Republic of China, and Korea. Its anti-inflammatory effect is related to the arachidonate cascade and inhibition of cyclo-oxygenase, but research on other anti-inflammatory pathways is ongoing. We report a case of fever of unknown origin in a 33-year-old woman. The possibility of infection due to human immunodeficiency virus, autoimmune, neoplastic, or other disease was examined and excluded. Oren-gedoku-to was successfully used to treat her symptoms and may thus be a suitable treatment for patients with undiagnosed fever of unknown origin

Anti-oxidative and DNA Protecting Effects of Flavonoids-rich Scutellaria Lateriflora

Scutellaria lateriflora (American skullcap), a native plant of North America, has been used by Americans and Europeans as a nerve tonic for more than 200 years. In vivo studies have shown anxiolytic activity of S. lateriflora in animals and humans. However, the neuroprotective mechanisms of S. lateriflora are not fully understood. Oxidative stress plays a vital role in the neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric diseases such as anxiety, Alzheimer's disease, depression, and Parkinson's disease. Bioactive compounds present in various medicinal plants neutralize or scavenge toxic free radicals and thus suppress oxidative stress. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate the antioxidant effects of S. lateriflora. The antioxidant potential of aqueous or ethanolic extracts of S. lateriflora was determined in mouse brain tissue using various biochemical assays. Protective effects of S. lateriflora against oxidative stress induced DNA fragmentation was determined using plasmid DNA. The ethanolic and aqueous extracts scavenged the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radicals. The ethanolic extract reduced tert-butyl peroxide-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipid peroxides in the mouse brain homogenates. Furthermore, the ethanolic extract of S. lateriflora protected hydrogen peroxide-UV induced cleavage of supercoiled plasmid DNA. In conclusion, S. lateriflora exhibited significant antioxidant effects. The current findings posit S. lateriflora as one of the potential experimental herbal drugs that should be screened for its therapeutic potential against various oxidative stress associated mental disorders.

Kinetics and mechanism study of competitive inhibition of jack-bean urease by baicalin

Baicalin (BA) is the principal component of Radix Scutellariae responsible for its pharmacological activity. In this study, kinetics and mechanism of inhibition by BA against jack-bean urease were investigated for its therapeutic potential. It was revealed that the IC₅₀ of BA against jack-bean urease was 2.74 ± 0.51 mM, which was proved to be a competitive and concentration-dependent inhibition with slow-binding progress curves. The rapid formation of initial BA-urease complex with an inhibition constant of K_i = 3.89 × 10⁻³ mM was followed by a slow isomerization into the final complex with an overall inhibition constant of K_i* = 1.47 × 10⁻⁴ mM. High effectiveness of thiol protectors against BA inhibition indicated that the strategic role of the active-site sulfhydryl group of the urease was involved in the blocking process. Moreover, the inhibition of BA was proved to be reversible due to the fact that urease could be reactivated by dithiothreitol but not reactant dilution. Molecular docking assay suggested that BA made contacts with the important activating sulfhydryl group Cys-592 residues and restricted the mobility of the active-site flap. Taken together, it could be deduced that BA was a competitive inhibitor targeting thiol groups of urease in a slow-binding manner both reversibly and concentration-dependently, serving as a promising urease inhibitor for treatments on urease-related diseases.

A fraction of stem bark extract of Entada africana suppresses lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation in RAW 264.7 cells

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Entada africana is a plant used in African traditional medicine for the treatment of stomachache, fever, liver related diseases, wound healing, cataract and dysentery.

AIMS OF THE STUDY

This study aimed at evaluating the anti-inflammatory activity of fractions of the stem bark extract of the plant using lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation in RAW 264.7 macrophages model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The crude extract was prepared using the mixture CH2Cl2/MeOH (1:1, v/v) and fractionated by flash chromatography using solvents of increasing polarity to obtain five different fractions. The effects of the fractions on the cells viability were studied by the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and their inhibitory activity against LPS-induced nitric oxide (NO) production screened by Griess test. The most active fraction was further investigated for its effects on reactive oxygen species (ROS) production using flux cytometry, the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), pro-and anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL1β, TNFα, IL6, IL10 and IL13) by RT-PCR, and the activity of the enzyme p38 MAPK kinase by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

RESULTS

The fractions presented no significant effect on the viability of macrophages at 100 μg/ml after 24h incubation. The CH2Cl2/MeOH 5% (Ea5) fraction was found to be the most potent in inhibiting NO production with a half inhibition concentration (IC50)=18.36 μg/ml, and showed the highest inhibition percentage (89.068%) in comparison with Baicalin (63.34%), an external standard at 50 μg/ml. Ea5, as well as Baicalin significantly (P<0.05) inhibited the expression of TNFα, IL6 and IL1β mRNA, attenuated mRNA expression of inducible NO synthase in a concentration-dependent manner, stimulated the expression of anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL10 and IL13), and showed a 30% inhibition of the activity of p38 MAPK kinase.

CONCLUSION

The results of the present study indicate that the fraction Ea5 of Entada africana possesses most potent in vitro anti-inflammatory activity and may contain compounds useful as a therapeutic agent in the treatment of inflammatory related diseases cause by over-activation of macrophages.

Wogonin induced cytotoxicity in human hepatocellular carcinoma cells by activation of unfolded protein response and inactivation of AKT

AIM

To investigate the potential anticancer effects of the natural flavonoid wogonin on human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells and tumor xenografts and the contribution of the unfolded protein response (UPR) and AKT pathways to the cytotoxicity of wogonin.

METHODS

The HCC cell lines HepG2, SMMC-7721 and Hep3B were treated with wogonin. 3-(4 5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assays were used to evaluate the cell viability. Flow cytometry assays were used to identify the cell death types and measure the concentrations of intracellular H2 O2 and Ca(2+) . Western blotting assays were used to detect the protein expression levels of members in the UPR and AKT pathways. Relative quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction assays were used to analysis the mRNA expression levels of chop and trb3. Furthermore, the male BALB/c nude mice with SMMC-7721 xenografts were treated with wogonin. The tumor volume, tumor weight and bodyweight were monitored during the tumorigenicity assays.

RESULTS

Wogonin significantly inhibited the viability of HCC cells by inducing apoptosis and necrosis. This cytotoxicity was at least partially attributed to the activation of the UPR pathway and consequent inactivation of AKT signaling, which resulted from the production of intracellular H2 O2 and causal release of endoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+) . Moreover, wogonin evidently repressed the growth of xenografts but slightly influenced the bodyweight of mice.

CONCLUSION

Wogonin is a prospect for improving the systemic chemotherapy strategy on HCC by concurrently rectifying the aberrant UPR and AKT signaling pathways, which are crucial to the biology of HCC.

Anti-asthmatic effects of baicalin in a mouse model of allergic asthma

The aim of the study was to investigate the anti-asthmatic effects of baicalin (BA) and the possible mechanisms. Asthma model was established by ovalbumin (OVA) intraperitoneal injection. A total of 60 mice were randomly assigned to six experimental groups: control, model, dexamethasone (2 mg/kg), and BA (10 mg/kg, 20 mg/kg, 40 mg/kg). Airway resistance (RI) and lung compliance (Cdyn) were measured, histological studies were evaluated by the hematoxylin and eosin staining, Th1/Th2, OVA-specific serum, and BALF IgE levels and Th17 cytokines were evaluated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and Th17 cells was evaluated by flow cytometry (FCM). Our study demonstrated that BA inhibited OVA-induced increases in RI and eosinophil count; interleukin (IL)-4, IL-17A levels, and Cdyn were recovered and increased IFN-γ level in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Histological studies demonstrated that BA substantially inhibited OVA-induced eosinophilia in lung tissue and airway tissue. FCM studies demonstrated that BA substantially inhibited Th17 cells. These findings suggest that BA may effectively ameliorate the progression of asthma and could be used as a therapy for patients with allergic asthma.

Oroxylin-A rescues LPS-induced acute lung injury via regulation of NF-κB signaling pathway in rodents

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Successful drug treatment for sepsis-related acute lung injury (ALI) remains a major clinical problem. This study was designed to assess the beneficial effects of post-treatment of oroxylin A (OroA), a flavonoid, in ameliorating lipopolysaccharides (LPS)-induced lung inflammation and fatality.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Rats were injected with LPS (10 mg/kg, iv) to induce ALI, and OroA was given (15 mg/kg, iv) 1 hr or 6 hrs after LPS challenge. Twenty four hrs after LPS challenge, biochemical changes in the blood and lung tissues, and morphological/histological alterations in the lung associated with inflammation and injury were examined. Therapeutic effect of OroA was assessed by measuring the survival rate in endotoxemic mice.

KEY RESULTS

LPS (10 mg/kg, iv) significantly altered WBC counts, elevated plasma tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and nitric oxide (NO), increased pulmonary edema, thickened alveolar septa, and decreased survival rate. These changes were ameliorated by OroA (15 mg/kg, iv) administered 1 hr or 6 hrs after LPS challenge. This post-treatment also significantly attenuated LPS-induced activation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and the release of high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) in lung tissues. Furthermore, post-treatment with OroA (60 mg/kg, ip) administered 1 hr or 6 hrs after LPS challenge in mice significantly increased survival rate.

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATION

OroA administered after induction of ALI by LPS significantly prevent and revere lung tissues injuries with increased survival rate. Positive post-treatment effects of OroA suggest that OroA is a potentially useful candidate for managing lung inflammation in LPS-induced endotoxemia and septic shock.

Oroxylin A prevents inflammation-related tumor through down-regulation of inflammatory gene expression by inhibiting NF-κB signaling

Increasing evidence suggests that inflammatory microenvironment plays a critical role at different stages of tumor development. However, the molecular mechanisms of the interaction between inflammation and proliferation of cancer cells remain poorly defined. Here we reported the inhibitory effects of oroxylin A on the inflammation-stimulated proliferation of tumor cells and delineated the mechanism of its action. The results indicated that treatment with oroxylin A inhibited NF-κB p65 nuclear translocation and phosphorylation of IκBα and IKKα/β in both human colon tumor HCT116 cells and human monocytes THP-1 cells. In addition, in THP-1 cells, oroxylin A significantly suppressed lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced secretion of prototypical proinflammatory cytokine IL-6 but not IL-1β, and it was confirmed at the transcription level. Moreover, oroxylin A inhibited the proliferation of HCT116 cells stimulated by LPS-induced THP-1 cells in co-culture microenvironment. In summary, oroxylin A modulated NF-κB signaling pathway involved in inflammation-induced cancer initiation and progression and therefore could be a potential cancer chemoprevention agent for inflammation-related cancer.

Traditional Japanese Herbal (Kampo) Medicines and Treatment of Ocular Diseases: A Review

Herbal medicines have been used clinically in Eastern Asia, and traditional Japanese herbal (Kampo) formulas are approved as ethical drugs. The Kampo formulas are mixtures of the crude extracts of several herbs, each of which contains multiple components. Numerous investigators have reported that some herbal medicines are efficacious for treating several human diseases. We reviewed the literature on traditional herbal medicines and treatment of ocular diseases. Oral Orengedoku-to and Kakkon-to inhibit postoperative uveitis in humans. Oral Goshajinki-gan improved ocular surface disorders in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus. Oral Hachimijio-gan increased retinal blood flow. Keishi-bukuryo-gan Sho might be associated with vitreoretinopathy in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Oral Hachimijio-gan and Goshajinki-gan delayed lens opacification in rats and mice. Oral Sairei-to, Orengedoku-to, Senkanmeimoku-to, Scutellariae radix extract, Gardeniae fructus extract, topical Liguisticum wallichii rhizoma extract, and intravenous injection of tetramethylpyrazine, baicalin, baicalein, wogonin, and crocetin inhibited some forms of experimental uveitis in rabbits. Topical glycyrrhizinate improved allergic conjunctivitis in humans and rats. Oral crocetin improved eyestrain in humans. Oral berberine diminished experimental uveitis in rats. Baicalein, wogonin, berberine, and berberrubine inhibited in vitro expression of several cytokines in cultured retinal pigment epithelial cells. Some Kampo formulas are efficacious for treating several ocular diseases in humans and animals. Some herbal extracts and their components inhibit some forms of experimental uveitis.

Relaxant effect induced by wogonin from Scutellaria baicalensis on rat isolated uterine smooth muscle

CONTEXT

Wogonin is a flavone derivative isolated from Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi (Labiatae) root, which is a traditional Chinese drug used as an anti-inflammatory and for management of dysmenorrhea.

OBJECTIVE

The effect of wogonin on the uterus has not yet been examined. We investigated the relaxant effects of wogonin on contractile activity of isolated uterine strips of rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The effect of wogonin on spontaneous uterine contraction, and uterine contraction induced by agonists, K⁺-depolarization and oxytocin in Ca²⁺-free solution was observed. To clarify the type of potassium channel, we tested the effects of 4-aminopyridine, tetraethylammonium and glibenclamide.

RESULTS

Wogonin reduced the contractile amplitude of uterine strip smooth muscle of rats in a dose-dependent manner. The concentration of wogonin for reducing the contraction amplitude by 50% (IC₅₀) on spontaneous contractions was 60.5 μM. Wogonin also inhibited the contraction induced by three agonists (oxytocin, prostaglandin F(2α) and acetylcholine). For the uterine strips pretreated with oxytocin in Ca²⁺-free solution or K⁺-depolarization, wogonin showed relaxant effect on the induced uterine contractions. In addition, whereas the inhibitive effect of wogonin on the contraction of uterine smooth muscle in rats could be partly blocked by 4-aminopyridine and tetraethylammonium, it was not influenced by glibenclamide.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

Wogonin significantly inhibited the contraction of rat uterine smooth muscle probably through the inhibition of the inflow of extracellular calcium into cells via cell membrane, and intracellular release of calcium ions. In addition, the relaxant effect induced by wogonin might be due in part to the opening of voltage-dependent and large conductance Ca²⁺-activated K⁺ channels.

Effects of Oral Administration of Gardeniae fructus Extract and Intravenous Injection of Crocetin on Lipopolysaccharide- and Prostaglandin E2-induced Elevation of Aqueous Flare in Pigmented Rabbits

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of extracts of Coptidis rhizoma, Phellodendri cortex and Gardeniae fructus, which are medicinal herbs in Orengedoku-to (Huanglin-Jie-Du-Tang in Chinese), and crocetin (a major component of Gardeniae fructus) on experimental elevation of aqueous flare in pigmented rabbits. To produce aqueous flare elevation, 0.5 μg/kg lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was injected into the ear vein, or prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) 25 μg/ml, was applied to the cornea by means of a glass cylinder. Animals were pretreated by oral administration of 150 g/day of food containing 0.15% (w/w) extract powder of Coptidis rhizoma, 0.10% (w/w) extract powder of Phellodendri cortex or 0.15% (w/w) extract powder of Gardeniae fructus for 4 days, or by intravenous injection of crocetin, 0.3, 3, 30 or 300 μg/kg, 30 minutes before aqueous flare elevation. Aqueous flare was measured with a laser flare-cell meter. Aqueous flare intensity was expressed as the area under the curve (AUC) in arbitrary units. The AUC of LPS- and PGE2-induced aqueous flare elevation was 4685 and 1386 arbitrary units, respectively. Pretreatment by oral administration of 0.15% (w/w) extract of Coptidis rhizoma or 0.10% (w/w) extract of Phellodendri cortex did not inhibit LPS-induced aqueous flare elevation. Pretreatment by oral administration of 0.15% extract of Gardeniae fructus suppressed LPS-induced aqueous flare elevation (AUC: 1411 arbitrary units). Pretreatment by intravenous injection of 3, 30 or 300 μg/kg of crocetin-inhibited LPS-induced aqueous flare elevation in a dose-dependent manner. Pretreatment with 3 or 30 μg/kg of crocetin did not inhibit PGE2-induced aqueous flare elevation, but 300 μg/kg of crocetin inhibited PGE2-induced aqueous flare elevation (AUC: 918 arbitrary units).

6-Shogaol, a ginger product, modulates neuroinflammation: a new approach to neuroprotection

Inflammatory processes in the central nervous system play an important role in a number of neurodegenerative diseases mediated by microglial activation, which results in neuronal cell death. Microglia act in immune surveillance and host defense while resting. When activated, they can be deleterious to neurons, even resulting in neurodegeneration. Therefore, the inhibition of microglial activation is considered a useful strategy in searching for neuroprotective agents. In this study, we investigated the effects of 6-shogaol, a pungent agent from Zingiber officinale Roscoe, on microglia activation in BV-2 and primary microglial cell cultures. 6-Shogaol significantly inhibited the release of nitric oxide (NO) and the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The effect was better than that of 6-gingerol, wogonin, or N-monomethyl-l-arginine, agents previously reported to inhibit nitric oxide. 6-Shogaol exerted its anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the production of prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)) and proinflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and by downregulating cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) expression. In addition, 6-shogaol suppressed the microglial activation induced by LPS both in primary cortical neuron-glia culture and in an in vivo neuroinflammatory model. Moreover, 6-shogaol showed significant neuroprotective effects in vivo in transient global ischemia via the inhibition of microglia. These results suggest that 6-shogaol is an effective therapeutic agent for treating neurodegenerative diseases.

Baicalin is anti-inflammatory in cigarette smoke-induced inflammatory models in vivo and in vitro: A possible role for HDAC2 activity

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by airway obstruction and progressive lung inflammation, which is insensitive to corticosteroids therapies. In this study, we investigated the mechanism underlying the attenuation of cigarette smoke (CS)-induced respiratory inflammation by baicalin, a flavonoid compound isolated from the root of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi, in vivo and in vitro. In vivo, mice were exposed to smoke of 15 cigarettes for 1 h/day, 6 days/week for 3 months and dosed with baicalin (25, 50 and 100mg/kg) or dexamethasone (1mg/kg). In vitro, A549 cells were incubated with baicalin (10, 50 and 100 μM) or dexamethasone (10(-12), 10(-10), 10(-8) and 10(-6)M) followed by treatments with cigarette smoke extract (CSE, 2.5 and 5%), or TNF-α (10 ng/ml), or trichostatin A (TSA, 100 ng/ml). We found that baicalin significantly protected pulmonary function and attenuated CS-induced inflammatory response by decreasing inflammatory cells and production of TNF-α, IL-8 and MMP-9. This result was not found in the group treated with dexamethasone. Baicalin also showed efficacy in enhancing histone deacetylase (HDAC)2 activity and protein expression, however, it did not affect HDAC2 mRNA. Further studies revealed that baicalin inhibited HDAC2 phosphorylation, suggesting that it may directly affect the protein structure and effect by modification at post-translational level. Together these results suggest that baicalin has anti-inflammatory effects in cigarette smoke induced inflammatory models in mice and A549 cells, possibly achieved by modulating HDAC2.

In Vitro and in Vivo Therapeutics of β-Thujaplicin on Lps-Induced Inflammation in Macrophages and Septic Shock in Mice

β-thujaplicin, an active constituent from Chamaecyparis obtusa, has been shown to have acaricidal and antimicrobial effects. Very few studies have focused on the potential of the anti-inflammatory effect of β-thujaplicin. Moreover, its capability of inhibiting inflammatory mediators e.g. TNF-α gene transcription, nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin E2, remains unknown. Besides those molecular mechanisms behind the anti-inflammatory effect of β-thujaplicin, solid proof of its effectiveness in vivo has not yet been studied. In our study, in vitro effects of β-thujaplicin were verified on RAW 264.7 macrophages which were stimulated by LPS. Indomethacin was used as a positive control. The inducible NO production after stimulation was measured by Griess reagent. PGE2, IL-6 and TNF-α were measured by ELISA methods. Protein expressions of iNOS, COX2, and NF-κB were evaluated by Western blotting. Septic ICR mice were administered 20 mg/kg of LPS and then the mortality rate was monitored. Within the concentration range which was devoid of cytotoxicty, β-thujaplicin exhibited a clear dose-dependent inhibition on LPS-induced NO production. Furthermore, β-thujaplicin inhibited LPS-induced PGE2, IL-6, and TNF-α production as well as iNOS, COX2, and NF-κB protein expression more substantially potent than indomethacin. In agreement with the in vitro study, β-thujaplicin was shown to be effective in vivo for inhibiting LPS-induced NO and TNF-α production and a significant decrease in mortality rate of mice suffering from septic shock was observed. This study demonstrates the potential of β-thujaplicin in treatment of inflammation and sepsis. These effects occur through an efficient blockage of TNF-α and iNOS production, β-thujaplicin efficacy is comparable to that of indomethacin thus it can be a substitution but bear less depletion of PGE2, making this compound very promising in clinical applications.

Baicalin as a potentially promising drug for the management of sulfur mustard induced cutaneous complications: a review of molecular mechanisms

Sulfur mustard (SM) is a bifunctional alkylating agent with strong blistering, irritant, mutagenic and cytotoxic properties. SM has been widely deployed as a chemical warfare agent for over a century, leading to extensive casualties. Skin is among the first and most heavily damaged organs upon SM exposure. Unfortunately, a considerable fraction of SM-intoxicated patients are still suffering from chronic cutaneous complications. While these complications adversely affect patients' quality of life, there is as yet no ideal treatment for them and therapeutic options are limited and mainly symptomatic. During recent decades, remarkable progress has been made in understanding molecular mechanisms underlying SM-induced dermatotoxicity and several intra- and extracellular targets have been identified. This review argues that baicalin, a bioactive flavonoid from the roots of Scutellaria spp., could counteract different molecular and biochemical abnormalities that mediate SM dermatotoxicity and could therefore be regarded as a promising therapeutic option for the management of SM-induced cutaneous lesions.