Acupuncture Increases the Diameter and Reorganisation of Collagen Fibrils during Rat Tendon Healing

Background

Our previous study showed that electroacupuncture (EA) increases the concentration and reorganisation of collagen in a rat model of tendon healing. However, the ultrastructure of collagen fibrils after acupuncture is unknown.

Objectives

To assess the effect of acupuncture protocols on the ultrastructure of collagen fibrils during tendon healing.

Methods

Sixty-four rats were divided into the following groups: non-tenotomised (normal group), tenotomised (teno group), tenotomised and subjected to manual acupuncture at ST36 (ST36 group), BL57 (BL57 group) and ST36+BL57 (SB group) and EA at ST36+BL57 (EA group). The mass-average diameter (MAD) and the reorganisation of collagen fibril diameters were determined during the three phases of tendon healing (at 7, 14 and 21 days).

Results

The MAD increased during the three phases of healing in the SB group. In the EA group, MAD increased initially but was reduced at day 21. The reorganisation of collagen fibrils was improved in the EA and SB groups at days 14 and 21, respectively. EA at day 21 appeared to reduce the reorganisation.

Conclusions

These results indicate that the use of EA up to day 14 and manual acupuncture at ST36+BL57 up to day 21 improve the ultrastructure of collagen fibrils, indicating strengthening of the tendon structure. These data suggest a potential role for acupuncture in rehabilitation protocols.

Pien Tze Huang inhibits metastasis of human colorectal carcinoma cells via modulation of TGF-β1/ZEB/miR-200 signaling network

Tumor metastasis, a complex process involving the spread of malignant tumor cells from a primary tumor site to a distant organ, is a major cause of failure of cancer chemotherapy. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a critical step for the initiation of cancer metastasis. The processes of EMT and metastasis are highly regulated by a double-negative feedback loop consisting of TGF-β1/ZEB pathway and miR-200 family, which therefore has become a promising target for cancer chemotherapy. Pien Tze Huang (PZH), a well-known traditional Chinese formula first prescribed in the Ming Dynasty, has been demonstrated to be clinically effective in the treatment of various types of human malignancy including colorectal cancer (CRC). Our published data proposed that PZH was able to induce apoptosis, inhibit cell proliferation and tumor angiogenesis, leading to the suppression of CRC growth in vitro and in vivo. To further elucidate the mode of action of PZH, in the present study we evaluated its effects on the metastatic capacities of human colorectal carcinoma HCT-8 cells and investigated the underlying molecular mechanisms. We found that PZH significantly inhibited the migration and invasion of HCT-8 cells in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, PZH treatment inhibited the expression of key mediators of TGF-β1 signaling, such as TGF-β1, Smad2/3 and Smad4. Moreover, PZH treatment suppressed the expression of ZEB1 and ZEB2, two critical target genes of TGF-β1 pathway, leading to a decrease in the expression of mesenchymal marker N-cadherin and an increased expression of epithelial marker E-cadherin. Furthermore, PZH treatment upregulated the expression of miR-200a, miR-200b and miR-200c. Collectively, our findings in this study suggest that PZH can inhibit metastasis of colorectal cancer cells via modulating TGF-β1/ZEB/miR-200 signaling network, which might be one of the mechanisms whereby PZH exerts its anticancer function.

Millimeter Wave Treatment Inhibits Apoptosis of Chondrocytes via Regulation Dynamic Equilibrium of Intracellular Free Ca (2+)

The molecular mechanisms of TNF-α-induced apoptosis of chondrocyte and the role of Ca(2+) mediating the effects of MW on TNF-α-induced apoptosis of chondrocytes remained unclear. In this study, we investigated the molecular mechanism underlying inhibiting TNF-α-induced chondrocytes apoptosis of MW. MTT assay, DAPI, and flow cytometry demonstrated that MW significantly increased cell activity and inhibited chromatin condensation accompanying the loss of plasma membrane asymmetry and the collapse of mitochondrial membrane potential. Our results also indicated that MW reduced the elevation of [Ca(2+)] i in chondrocytes by LSCM. Moreover, MW suppressed the protein levels of calpain, Bax, cytochrome c, and caspase-3, while the expressions of Bcl-2, collagen II, and aggrecan were increased. Our evidences indicated that MW treatment inhibited the apoptosis of chondrocytes through depression of [Ca(2+)] i . It also inhibited calpain activation, which mediated Bax cleavage and cytochrome c release and initiated the apoptotic execution phase. In addition, MW treatment increased the expression of collagen II and aggrecan of chondrocytes.

Bushen Zhuangjin Decoction promotes chondrocyte proliferation by stimulating cell cycle progression

Bushen Zhuangjin Decoction (BZD), a well-known formulation in Traditional Chinese Medicine, has been widely used for the treatment of osteoarthritis (OA). Due to the poor intrinsic repair capacity of chondrocytes, promoting the proliferation of chondrocytes is an efficient treatment to delay the progression of cartilage degradation. The present study, therefore, focused on the effect of BZD on chondrocyte proliferation, exploring the mechanism of BZD on the inhibition of cartilage degradation. Chondrocytes isolated from the knee articular cartilage of Sprague Dawley rats were cultured and identified by type II collagen immunohistochemistry. It was found that BZD promoted chondrocyte viability in a dose- and time-dependent manner. To investigate if BZD promoted the chondrocyte viability by stimulating the cell cycle progression a flow cytometer was used, and the results showed that the percentage proportion of G0/G1 cells was significantly lower, and the percentage proportion of S cells was significantly higher, in treated cells compared with that in untreated cells. To gain insight into the mechanism underlying the effect of BZD on the cell cycle progression, the mRNA and protein expression of cyclin D1, cyclin-dependent kinase 4 (CDK4), CDK6 and p21 was measured by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and western blotting, respectively. The mRNA and protein expression of cyclin D1, CDK4 and CDK6 in the BZD-treated chondrocytes was significantly upregulated, while the mRNA and protein expression of p21 was significantly downregulated, compared with that in the untreated chondrocytes. These results suggested that BZD promoted chondrocyte proliferation by accelerating G1/S transition, indicating that BZD is a potential therapeutic agent for the treatment of OA.

Pien Tze Huang Inhibits Hypoxia-Induced Angiogenesis via HIF-1 α /VEGF-A Pathway in Colorectal Cancer

Hypoxia-induced angiogenesis plays an important role in the development and metastasis of solid tumors and is highly regulated by HIF-1α/VEGF-A pathway. Therefore, inhibiting tumor angiogenesis via suppression of HIF-1α/VEGF-A signaling represents a promising strategy for anticancer treatment. As a traditional Chinese medicine formula, Pien Tze Huang (PZH) has long been used as a folk remedy for cancer in China and Southeast Asia. Previously, we reported that PZH inhibits colorectal cancer (CRC) growth both in vivo and in vitro. To elucidate the antitumor mechanisms of PZH, in the present study we used human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) and colorectal carcinoma HCT-8 cells to evaluate the effects of PZH on hypoxia-induced angiogenesis and investigated the underlying molecular mechanisms. We found that PZH could inhibit hypoxia-induced migration and tube formation of HUVEC cells in a dose-dependent manner, although the low concentrations of PZH had no effect on HUVEC viability. Moreover, PZH inhibited hypoxia-induced activation of HIF-1α signaling and the expression of VEGF-A and/or VEGFR2 in both HCT-8 and HUVEC cells. Collectively, our findings suggest that PZH can inhibit hypoxia-induced tumor angiogenesis via suppression of HIF-1α/VEGF-A pathway.

Ameliorating effects of traditional Chinese medicine preparation, Chinese materia medica and active compounds on ischemia/reperfusion-induced cerebral microcirculatory disturbances and neuron damage

Ischemic stroke and ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury induced by thrombolytic therapy are conditions with high mortality and serious long-term physical and cognitive disabilities. They have a major impact on global public health. These disorders are associated with multiple insults to the cerebral microcirculation, including reactive oxygen species (ROS) overproduction, leukocyte adhesion and infiltration, brain blood barrier (BBB) disruption, and capillary hypoperfusion, ultimately resulting in tissue edema, hemorrhage, brain injury and delayed neuron damage. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been used in China, Korea, Japan and other Asian countries for treatment of a wide range of diseases. In China, the usage of compound TCM preparation to treat cerebrovascular diseases dates back to the Han Dynasty. Even thousands of years earlier, the medical formulary recorded many classical prescriptions for treating cerebral I/R-related diseases. This review summarizes current information and underlying mechanisms regarding the ameliorating effects of compound TCM preparation, Chinese materia medica, and active components on I/R-induced cerebral microcirculatory disturbances, brain injury and neuron damage.

Minocycline upregulates cyclic AMP response element binding protein and brain-derived neurotrophic factor in the hippocampus of cerebral ischemia rats and improves behavioral deficits

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The cAMP response element binding protein (CREB) plays an important role in the mechanism of cognitive impairment and is also pivotal in the switch from short-term to long-term memory. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) seems a promising avenue in the treatment of cerebral ischemia injury since this neurotrophin could stimulate structural plasticity and repair cognitive impairment. Several findings have displayed that the dysregulation of the CREB-BDNF cascade has been involved in cognitive impairment. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of cerebral ischemia on learning and memory as well as on the levels of CREB, phosphorylated CREB (pCREB), and BDNF, and to determine the effect of minocycline on CREB, pCREB, BDNF, and behavioral functional recovery after cerebral ischemia.

METHODS

The animal model was established by permanent bilateral occlusion of both common carotid arteries. Behavior was evaluated 5 days before decapitation with Morris water maze and open-field task. Four days after permanent bilateral occlusion of both common carotid arteries, minocycline was administered by douche via the stomach for 4 weeks. CREB and pCREB were examined by Western blotting, reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, and immunohistochemistry. BDNF was measured by immunohistochemistry and Western blotting.

RESULTS

The model rats after minocycline treatment swam shorter distances than control rats before finding the platform (P=0.0007). The number of times the platform position was crossed for sham-operation rats was more than that of the model groups in the corresponding platform location (P=0.0021). The number of times the platform position was crossed for minocycline treatment animals was significantly increased compared to the model groups in the corresponding platform position (P=0.0016). CREB, pCREB, and BDNF were downregulated after permanent bilateral occlusion of both common carotid arteries in the model group. Minocycline increased the expression of CREB, pCREB, and BDNF, and improved cognitive suffered from impairment of permanent bilateral occlusion of both common carotid arteries.

CONCLUSION

Minocycline improved cognitive impairment from cerebral ischemia via enhancing CREB, pCREB, and BDNF activity in the hippocampus.

Association of BID SNPs (rs8190315 and rs2072392) and clinical features of benign prostate hyperplasia in Korean population

Exercise has beneficial effect on cancer apoptosis and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The BH3 interacting domain death agonist (BID) gene expression is associated with apoptosis or cell proliferation. In this study, we investigated the association between BID single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and the development, prostate volume, and international prostate symptom score (IPSS) of BPH. In 222 BPH males and 214 controls, two SNPs in BID [rs8190315 (Ser56Gly), and rs2072392 (Asp106Asp)] were genotyped and analyzed using multiple logistic regression models. In the result, the genotype and allele frequencies of rs8190315 and rs2072392 were not associated with BPH development or IPSS, however, the allele frequencies [odd ratio (OR)= 1.90, 95% confidence interval (CI)= 1.07–3.41, P= 0.03] and genotype frequencies (in dominant model, OR= 1.94, 95% CI= 1.01–3.74, P= 0.42) of rs8190315, and the genotype frequencies of rs2072392 (in dominant model, OR= 1.94, 95% CI= 1.01–3.74, P= 0.42) were associated with increased prostate volume. We propose that rs8190315 and rs2072392 of BID may contribute to the disease severity of BPH.

Influence of Panax ginseng on Alpha-Adrenergic Receptor of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

Purpose

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is the most common prostate problem in older men. The present study aimed to investigate the inhibitory effect of Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer (P. ginseng) on a rat model of testosterone-induced BPH.

Methods

The rats were divided into 3 groups (each group, n=10): control, testosterone-induced BPH (20 mg/kg, subcutaneous injection), and P. ginseng (200 mg/kg, orally) groups. After 4 weeks, all animals were sacrificed to examine the blood biochemical profiles, prostate volume, weight, histopathological changes, alpha-1D adrenergic receptor (Adra1d) mRNA expression, and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and B-cell CLL/lymphoma 2 (BCL2) protein expression.

Results

The group treated with P. ginseng showed significantly lesser prostate size and weight than the testosterone-induced BPH group. In addition, P. ginseng decreased the mRNA expression of Adra1d as well as the expression of EGFR and BCL2 in prostate tissue.

Conclusions

These results suggest that P. ginseng may inhibit the alpha-1-adrenergic receptor to suppress the development of BPH.

Protective Effect of Electroacupuncture on Neural Myelin Sheaths is Mediated via Promotion of Oligodendrocyte Proliferation and Inhibition of Oligodendrocyte Death After Compressed Spinal Cord Injury

Electroacupuncture (EA) has been used worldwide to treat demyelinating diseases, but its therapeutic mechanism is poorly understood. In this study, a custom-designed model of compressed spinal cord injury (CSCI) was used to induce demyelination. Zusanli (ST36) and Taixi (KI3) acupoints of adult rats were stimulated by EA to demonstrate its protective effect. At 14 days after EA, both locomotor skills and ultrastructural features of myelin sheath were significantly improved. Phenotypes of proliferating cells were identified by double immunolabeling of 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine with antibodies to cell markers: NG2 [oligodendrocyte precursor cell (OPC) marker], 2',3'-cyclic-nucleotide 3'-phosphodiesterase (CNPase) (oligodendrocyte marker), and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) (astrocyte marker). EA enhanced the proliferation of OPCs and CNPase, as well as the differentiation of OPCs by promoting Olig2 (the basic helix-loop-helix protein) and attenuating Id2 (the inhibitor of DNA binding 2). EA could also improve myelin basic protein (MBP) and protect existing oligodendrocytes from apoptosis by inhibiting caspase-12 (a representative of endoplasmic reticulum stress) and cytochrome c (an apoptotic factor and hallmark of mitochondria). Therefore, our results indicate that the protective effect of EA on neural myelin sheaths is mediated via promotion of oligodendrocyte proliferation and inhibition of oligodendrocyte death after CSCI.

Neuroprotective effects of Gualou Guizhi decoction in vivo and in vitro

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Gualou Guizhi decoction (GLGZD) prescribed in traditional Chinese medicine has been reported to have protective effects on ischemic stroke. The present study is to investigate the therapeutic effect of GLGZD on ischemic stroke and explore its mode of action.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

GLGZD was studied on transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) followed by reperfusion in vivo, as well as on hippocampal primary neuron cultures in vitro.

RESULTS

In vivo, it was shown that GLGZD treatment for 7 days could ameliorate transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO)-induced neurological deficit, histopathology changes and decrease infarct area. Further study demonstrated that GLGZD inhibited over-activation of astrocytes and apoptosis of neurons and GLGZD promoted up-regulation of neuronal specific marker neuron-specific nuclear (NeuN) and microtubule-associated protein 2 (MAP-2) in brain. Moreover, the in vitro study revealed that GLGZD treatment protected against NMDA-induced cell apoptosis and neuronal loss, and promoted up-regulation of neuronal specific marker NeuN.

CONCLUSIONS

Taken together, the present study demonstrates that GLGZD produces a protection in the MCAO model rats via inhibiting over-activation of astrocytes, apoptosis of neurons and up-regulation of neuronal specific marker NeuN and MAP-2. Our study reveals that GLGZD might be a potential neuroprotective agent for stroke and can provide basic data for clinical use.

Pien Tze Huang Overcomes Multidrug Resistance and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Human Colorectal Carcinoma Cells via Suppression of TGF-β Pathway

The traditional Chinese medicine formula Pien Tze Huang (PZH) has long been used as a folk remedy for cancer. To elucidate the mode of action of PZH against cancer, in the present study we used a 5-FU resistant human colorectal carcinoma cell line (HCT-8/5-FU) to evaluate the effects of PZH on multidrug resistance (MDR) and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) as well as the activation of TGF-β pathway. We found that PZH dose-dependently inhibited the viability of HCT-8/5-FU cells which were insensitive to treatment of 5-FU and ADM, demonstrating the ability of PZH to overcome chemoresistance. Furthermore, PZH increased the intercellular accumulation of Rhodamine-123 and downregulated the expression of ABCG2 in HCT-8/5-FU cells. In addition, drug resistance induced the process of EMT in HCT-8 cells as evidenced by EMT-related morphological changes and alteration in the expression of EMT-regulatory factors, which however was neutralized by PZH treatment. Moreover, PZH inhibited MDR/EMT-enhanced migration and invasion capabilities of HCT-8 cells in a dose-dependent manner and suppressed MDR-induced activation of TGF-β signaling in HCT-8/5-FU cells. Taken together, our study suggests that PZH can effectively overcome MDR and inhibit EMT in human colorectal carcinoma cells via suppression of the TGF-β pathway.

Differential mRNA expression profiles between hepatocellular carcinoma and adjacent normal liver tissue

AIM: To identify differentially expressed genes between hepatocellular carcinoma and normal liver tissues and to carry out bioinformatics analysis.

METHODS: Agilent 8×60 K microarray was used to detect the changes of gene expression between hepatocellular carcinoma and adjacent normal liver tissues. Bioinformatics methods were used to identify differentially expressed genes and perform GO pathway analysis. Real-time PCR was applied to verify microarray data.

RESULTS: Microarray analysis screened a total of up-regulated 924 mRNAs and 1770 down-regulated mRNAs in hepatocellular carcinoma tissues compared with the normal tissues. GO pathway analysis demonstrated that these mRNAs are involved in transcription, redox, signal transduction, ion transport, immune response, cell adhesion, and binding functions. The results of real-time PCR were in high concordance with microarray results.

CONCLUSION: Differentially expressed genes identified in this study may be involved in signal transduction, immune response and other key biological processes. These genes may provide new targets for targeted therapy.

The effects of electroacupuncture treatment on the postoperative cognitive function in aged rats with acute myocardial ischemia-reperfusion

Many literatures have proven that postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) was very common in old patients after the injury of acute myocardial ischemia-reperfusion (AMIR) clinically such as the off-pump coronary artery bypass surgery (OPCAB) without definite mechanism; however, reports on the animal experiments were rarely seen. We hypothesized that AMIR could contribute to cognitive dysfunction, and this severe injury might be impeded by EA via hindering neuroinflammation and oxidative stress response as well as modulating the balance of the autonomic nervous system. The aged male Sprague Dawley rats were randomly assigned into three experimental groups: sham (sham operation), AMIR, and EA (electroacupunture treatment, acupoints GV20 and ST36+AMIR) groups. The survival rate, heart rate variability analysis, examination of pathology within the hippocampal CA1, oxidative stress, systemic inflammation and the behavior testing were evaluated by their corresponding methods. The results showed that the rats subjected to AMIR had lower survival rates, higher malondialdehyde (MDA), decreased superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, more microglial activation, and presented evidence of severe brain injury and cognitive dysfunction on the 1st, 3rd, 7th days after reperfusion compared to sham-operated controls. Most important of all, the above damages induced by the AMIR were significantly improved by the EA treatment. Our findings indicated that EA treatment could be a neuroprotective therapy for the cognitive dysfunction induced by the AMIR event, which might be attributablefor balancing the autonomic nervous system, inhibiting the neuronic apoptosis, hindering microglial activation, attenuating oxidative stress and restraining the central and peripheral inflammation reactions.

Treatment of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease with Total Alkaloids in Rubus aleaefolius Poir through Regulation of Fat Metabolism

Total alkaloids in Rubus aleaefolius Poir (TARAP) is a folk medicinal herb that has been used clinically in China to treat nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) for many years. However, the mechanism of its anti-NAFLD effect is largely unknown. In this study, we developed a NAFLD rat model by supplying a modified high-fat diet (mHFD) ad libitum for 8 weeks and evaluated the therapeutic effect of TARAP in NAFLD rats as well as the underlying molecular mechanism. We found that TARAP could reduce the serum triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL-C) levels and increase the serum high-density lipoprotein (HDL-C) level in NAFLD rats. In addition, TARAP treatment reduced expression of fatty acid synthetase (FAS), and acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC) and upregulated the expression of carnitine palmitoyltransferase (CPT). Our results suggest that regulation of lipid metabolism may be a mechanism by which TARAP treats NAFLD.

Whey-hydrolyzed peptide-enriched immunomodulating diet prevents progression of liver cirrhosis in rats

OBJECTIVE

Liver fibrosis and subsequent cirrhosis is a major cause of death worldwide, but few effective antifibrotic therapies are reported. Whey-hydrolyzed peptide (WHP), a major peptide component of bovine milk, exerts anti-inflammatory effects in experimental models. A WHP-enriched diet is widely used for immunomodulating diets (IMD) in clinical fields. However, the effects of WHP on liver fibrosis remain unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the antifibrotic effects of WHP in a rat cirrhosis model.

METHODS

Progressive liver fibrosis was induced by repeated intraperitoneal administration of dimethylnitrosamine (DMN) for 3 wk. Rats were fed either a WHP-enriched IMD (WHP group) or a control enteral diet (control group). The degree of liver fibrosis was compared between groups. Hepatocyte-protective effects were examined using hepatocytes isolated from rats fed a WHP diet. Reactive oxygen species and glutathione in liver tissue were investigated in the DMN cirrhosis model.

RESULTS

Macroscopic and microscopic progression of liver fibrosis was remarkably suppressed in the WHP group. Elevated serum levels of liver enzymes and hyaluronic acid, and liver tissue hydroxyproline content were significantly attenuated in the WHP group. Necrotic hepatocyte rates with DMN challenge, isolated from rats fed a WHP-enriched IMD, were significantly lower. In the DMN cirrhosis model, reactive oxygen species were significantly lower, and glutathione was significantly higher in the WHP group's whole liver tissue.

CONCLUSION

A WHP-enriched IMD effectively prevented progression of DMN-induced liver fibrosis in rats via a direct hepatocyte-protective effect and an antioxidant effect through glutathione synthesis.

Three advantages of using traditional Chinese medicine to prevent and treat tumor

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), an important component of complementary and alternative medicine, has evolved over thousands of years with its own unique system of theories, diagnostics and therapies. TCM has been increasingly used in the last decades and become well known for its significant role in preventing and treating cancer. We believe that TCM possesses advantages over Western medicine in specific aspects at a certain stage of cancer treatment. Here we summarize the advantages of TCM from three aspects: preventing tumorigenesis; attenuating toxicity and enhancing the treatment effect; and reducing tumor recurrence and metastasis.

Nitidine chloride inhibits hepatic cancer growth via modulation of multiple signaling pathways

BACKGROUND

The development of hepatic cancer is tightly regulated by multiple intracellular signaling pathways. Therefore, most currently-used anti-tumor agents, which typically target single intracellular pathway, might not always be therapeutically effective. Additionally, long-term use of these agents probably generates drug resistance and unacceptable adverse effects. These problems increase the necessity for the development of new chemotherapeutic approaches. Nitidine chloride (NC), a natural benzophenanthridine alkaloid, has been shown to inhibit cancer growth via induction of cell apoptosis and suppression of cancer angiogenesis. But the precise mechanisms of its tumorcidal activity are not well understood.

METHODS

To further elucidate the precise mechanisms of its anti-tumor activity, using a hepatic cancer mouse xenograft model, the human hepatic cancer cell lines (HepG2, HCCLM3, Huh7), and umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC), here we evaluate the effect of NC on tumor growth in vivo and in vitro and investigated the underlying molecular mechanisms.

RESULTS

We found that NC treatment resulted in significant decrease in tumor volume and tumor weight respectively, but didn't affect body weight changes. Additionally, NC treatment dose- and time-dependently reduced the cell viability of all three hepatic cell lines. Moreover, NC suppressed the activation of STAT3, ERK and SHH pathways; and altered the expression of critical target genes including Bcl-2, Bax, Cyclin D1, CDK4, VEGF-A and VEGFR2. These molecular effects resulted in the promotion of apoptosis, inhibition of cell proliferation and tumor angiogenesis.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that NC possesses a broad range of anti-cancer activities due to its ability to affect multiple intracellular targets, suggesting that NC could be a novel multi-potent therapeutic agent for the treatment of hepatic cancer and other cancers.

Could acupuncture have a role in the treatment of autism spectrum disorder via modulation of BDNF expression and activation?

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a set of heterogeneous neurodevelopmental conditions characterised by early-onset difficulties in social communication and unusually restricted repetitive behaviour and interests. Multiple lines of evidence directly or indirectly suggest an involvement in autism of the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which plays a pivotal role in the development and plasticity of the brain. Recent studies have demonstrated the neuroprotective effect of acupuncture-induced activation of BDNF in many neurological disorders. In view of these findings, we hypothesise the potential therapeutic effect of acupuncture-induced activation of BDNF in the treatment of ASD.

Duhuo Jisheng Decoction‑containing serum promotes proliferation of interleukin‑1β‑induced chondrocytes through the p16‑cyclin D1/CDK4‑Rb pathway

Duhuo Jisheng Decoction (DHJSD) is a traditional Chinese herbal medicine that has multiple uses, including as a treatment for osteoarthritis (OA). However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effects of DHJSD on OA remain unknown. In the present study, a serum pharmacological method was applied to investigate the effects of DHJSD on the proliferation of chondrocytes treated with interleukin‑1β (IL‑1β) in vitro. This is a cell model commonly used to reproduce the mechanisms involved in degenerative arthropathies, including OA. The most effective intervention conditions of DHJSD serum were examined by MTT assay. The degenerative chondrocyte model was established by IL‑1β‑culture for 24 h, and was verified by optical microscopy and immunohistochemical analyses. Following the successful establishment of the degenerative chondrocyte model, the chondrocytes were subsequently randomly divided into two groups: The blank serum group and the DHJSD treatment group. Subsequent to treatment with the corresponding serum, cell proliferation was detected by MTT assay and DNA staining followed by FACS analysis, and the mRNA and protein expression levels of cyclin D1, cyclin‑dependent kinase 4 (CDK4), retinoblastoma tumor suppressor protein (Rb) and p16 were measured by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and western blotting, respectively. The results indicated that the most effective condition for the promotion of chondrocyte proliferation was 10% concentration of DHJSD 2‑h serum, and the degenerative chondrocyte model was successfully reproduced by IL‑1β‑treatment for 24 h. The mRNA and protein expression levels of cyclin D1, CDK4 and Rb in the DHJSD serum‑treated cells were significantly increased compared with those in the blank serum group, whereas p16 expression was significantly downregulated. These results indicate that treatment of cells with DHJSD‑containing serum is able to promote IL‑1β‑induced chondrocyte proliferation by promoting G1/S phase transition via modulating the expressions of cyclin D1, CDK4, Rb and p16, which contribute to the clinical efficacy of DHJSD in OA.

Inhibition of estrogen signaling through depletion of estrogen receptor alpha by ursolic acid and betulinic acid from Prunella vulgaris var. lilacina

Extracts of Prunella vulgaris have been shown to exert antiestrogenic effects. To identify the compounds responsible for these actions, we isolated the constituents of P. vulgaris and tested their individual antiestrogenic effects. Rosmarinic acid, caffeic acid, ursolic acid (UA), oleanolic acid, hyperoside, rutin and betulinic acid (BA) were isolated from the flower stalks of P. vulgaris var. lilacina Nakai (Labiatae). Among these constituents, UA and BA showed significant antiestrogenic effects, measured as a decrease in the mRNA level of GREB1, an estrogen-responsive protein; the effects of BA were stronger than those of UA. UA and BA were capable of suppressing estrogen response element (ERE)-dependent luciferase activity and expression of estrogen-responsive genes in response to exposure to estradiol, further supporting the suppressive role of these compounds in estrogen-induced signaling. However, neither UA nor BA was capable of suppressing estrogen signaling in cells ectopically overexpressing estrogen receptor α (ERα). Furthermore, both mRNA and protein levels of ERα were reduced by treatment with UA or BA, suggesting that UA and BA inhibit estrogen signaling by suppressing the expression of ERα. Interestingly, both compounds enhanced prostate-specific antigen promoter activity. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that UA and BA are responsible for the antiestrogenic effects of P. vulgaris and suggest their potential use as therapeutic agents against estrogen-dependent tumors.

Aberrant expression of p-STAT3 in peripheral blood CD4+ and CD8+ T cells related to hepatocellular carcinoma development

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common cancer types worldwide. The signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) protein is a member of the STAT transcription factor family. Oncogenesis, invasion, and metastasis of HCC are associated with activation of STAT3. However, whether aberrant expression of phosphorylated STAT3 (p-STAT3) in peripheral CD4+ and CD8+ T cells relates to HCC pathogenesis remains unclear. In this study, the expression of p-STAT3 in CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, and the levels of interferon-γ (IFN-γ), interleukin-4 (IL-4), IL-6 and IL-10 in the human hepatoma cell line Huh7 co-cultured with peripheral blood mononucleated cells (PBMCs) of healthy volunteers were measured. The correlations between p-STAT3 and IFN-γ/IL-4, IFN-γ, IL-4, IL-6 and IL-10 were then analyzed. Results showed that the p-STAT3 level is higher in CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in the peripheral blood of HCC patients, and in PBMCs co-cultured with Huh7 cells compared to controls. The cytokine (IL-4, IL-6 and IL-10) levels were increased and the IFN-γ level was decreased in the serum of HCC patients and in supernatants of PBMCs co-cultured with Huh7 cells. Correlation analyses demonstrated that the IFN-γ/IL-4 ratio and the IFN-γ level negatively correlate to the p-STAT3 level in CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in samples from patients and in cells cultured in vitro. By contrast, the levels of IL-4, IL-6 and IL-10 positively correlated to the p-STAT3 level. This study indicated that the expression of p-STAT3 is upregulated in peripheral CD4+ and CD8+ T cells of HCC patients, and which may result in abnormal immune surveillance and thereby, contribute to HCC pathogenesis.

Effect of p27 gene combined with Pientzehuang ([characters: see text]) on tumor growth in osteosarcoma-bearing nude mice

OBJECTIVE

To observe the effect of p27 gene recombinant adenovirus combined with Chinese medicine Pientzehuang ([characters: see text]) on the growth of xenografted human osteosarcoma in nude mice.

METHODS

Tissue transplantation was used to construct the orthotopic model of human osteosarcoma Saos-2 cell in nude mice. Thirty tumor-bearing nude mice were randomly divided into 5 groups with 6 mice in each group: blank control group (model of osteosarcoma), empty vector group (recombinant adeno-associated virus-multiple cloning site), Pientzehuang group, p27 gene group and combined treatment group (p27 gene combined with Pientzehuang). The effect of combined treatment on human osteosarcoma was analyzed through the tumor formation, tumor volume and inhibition rate of tumor growth. The expression of p27 was measured by immunohistochemical staining and Western blot.

RESULTS

The orthotopic model of osteosarcoma in nude mice was successfully constructed. The general appearance of tumor-bearing nude mice in Pientzehuang and p27 gene groups was markedly improved compared with the blank control group; and in the combined treatment group it was significantly improved compared with the Pientzehuang and p27 gene groups. The tumor growth in the Pientzehuang and p27 gene groups was significantly inhibited compared with the blank control group P<0.05); while in the combined treatment group it was markedly inhibited compared with the Pientzehuang and p27 gene groups (P<0.05). The rates of tumor growth inhibition were 34.1%, 56.5% and 63.8% in the Pientzehuang, p27 gene and combined treatment groups, respectively. Meanwhile, the protein expression of p27 gene in the p27 gene group was significantly increased compared with the blank control group (P<0.05); and it was significantly increased in the combined treatment group compared with the p27 gene and Pientzehuang groups (P<0.05).

CONCLUSION

p27 gene introduced by adenovirus combined with Pientzehuang can inhibit the growth of human osteosarcoma cell Saos-2 in nude mice.

Effect of ERK1/2 signaling pathway in electro-acupuncture mediated up-regulation of heme oxygenase-1 in lungs of rabbits with endotoxic shock

Background

The anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory activities of electro-acupuncture (EA), a traditional clinical method, are widely accepted, but its mechanisms are not yet well defined. In this study, we investigated the role of extracellular signal-regulated kinases1/2 (ERK1/2) pathways on electro-acupuncture – mediated up-regulation of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) in rabbit lungs injured by LPS-induced endotoxic shock.

Material/Methods

Seventy rabbits were randomly divided into 7 groups: group C, group M, group D, group SEAM, group EAM, group EAMPD, and group PD98059. Male New England white rabbits were given EA treatment on both sides once a day on days 1–5, and then received LPS to replicate the experimental model of injured lung induced by endotoxic shock. Then, they were killed by exsanguination at 6 h after LPS administration. The blood samples were collected for serum examination, and the lungs were removed for pathology examination, determination of wet-to-dry weight ratio, MDA content, SOD activity, serum tumor necrosis factor-α, determination of HO-1 protein and mRNA expression, and determination of ERK1/2 protein.

Results

The results revealed that after EA treatment, expression of HO-1and ERK1/2 was slightly increased compared to those in other groups, accompanied with less severe lung injury as indicated by lower index of lung injury score, lower wet-to-dry weight ratio, MDA content, and serum tumor necrosis factor-α levels, and greater SOD activity (p<0.05 for all). After pretreatment with ERK1/2 inhibitor PD98059, the effect of EA treatment and expression of HO-1 were suppressed (p<0.05 for all).

Conclusions

After electro-acupuncture stimulation at ST36 and BL13, severe lung injury during endotoxic shock was attenuated. The mechanism may be through up-regulation of HO-1, mediated by the signal transductions of ERK1/2 pathways. Thus, the regulation of ERK1/2 pathways via electro-acupuncture may be a therapeutic strategy for endotoxic shock.

Prescription patterns of Chinese herbal products for post-surgery colon cancer patients in Taiwan

ETHNO-PHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is commonly provided to cancer patients, however, the patterns of prescriptions for this type of medicine in Taiwan are unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the use of traditional Chinese medicine products in colon cancer patients post-surgery in Taiwan and to research patterns of TCM.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study of newly diagnosed colon cancer patients who received surgery between 2004 and 2008 identified from the National Health Insurance Research Database of Taiwan. The prescription patterns and reasons for the use of TCM for colon cancer were analyzed.

RESULTS

The results showed that "symptoms, signs and ill-defined conditions" (23.3%) and diseases of the digestive system (16.9%) were the most common reasons for using Chinese herbal medicine. Xiang-sha-liu-jun-zi-tang (7.1%), Bu-zhong-yi-qi-tang (4.3%), Jia-wei-xiao-yao-san (4.1%), Shen-Ling-Bai-Zhu-San (3.7%), Ban-Xia-Xie-Xin-Tang (3.4%), Gui-pi-tang (2.4%), Ping-Wei-San (2.4%), Gan-Lu-Yin (2.0%), Bao-He-Wan (1.9%), and Zhen-Ren-Huo-Ming-Yin (1.8%) were the most commonly prescribed single Chinese herbal formulae (CHF) for colon cancer patients post-surgery. Hedyotis diffusa Willd (Bai Hua She She Cao) (5.1%) and Scutellaria barbata (Ban Zhi Lian )(4.8%) were the most commonly prescribed single Chinese herbs.

CONCLUSIONS

This study identified patterns of TCM use in colon cancer patients post-surgery in Taiwan. The herbal ingredients were most commonly used for stimulate ghrelin secretion to increase food intake and had potential anti-tumor effect. However, further research is required to evaluate any beneficial effects which could identify leads for the development of new treatment strategies using TCM.

The synergistic effect of acupuncture and computer-based cognitive training on post-stroke cognitive dysfunction: a study protocol for a randomized controlled trial of 2 × 2 factorial design

Background

Stroke is one of the most common causes of cognitive impairment. Up to 75% of stroke survivors may be considered to have cognitive impairment, which severely limit individual autonomy for successful reintegration into family, work and social life. The clinical efficacy of acupuncture with Baihui (DU20) and Shenting (DU24) in stroke and post-stroke cognitive impairment has been previously demonstrated. Computer-assisted cognitive training is part of conventional cognitive rehabilitation and has also shown to be effective in improvement of cognitive function of affected patients. However, the cognitive impairment after stroke is so complexity that one single treatment cannot resolve effectively. Besides, the effects of acupuncture and RehaCom cognitive training have not been systematically compared, nor has the possibility of a synergistic effect of combination of the two therapeutic modalities been evaluated. Our primary aim of this trial is to evaluate the synergistic effect of acupuncture and RehaCom cognitive training on cognitive dysfunction after stroke.

Method/Design

A randomized controlled trial of 2 × 2 factorial design will be conducted in the Rehabilitation Hospital Affiliated to Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine. A total of 240 patients with cognitive dysfunction after stroke who meet the eligibility criteria will be recruited and randomized into RehaCom training group, acupuncture group, a combination of both or control group in a 1:1:1:1 ratio. All patients will receive conventional treatment. The interventions will last for 12 weeks (30 min per day, Monday to Friday every week). Evaluations will be conducted by blinded assessors at baseline and again at 4, 8 and 12 weeks. Outcome measurements include mini–mental state examination (MMSE), Montreal cognitive assessments (MoCA), functional independence measure scale (FIM) and adverse events.

Discussion

The results of this trial are expected to clarify the synergistic effect of acupuncture and RehaCom cognitive training on cognitive dysfunction after stroke. Furthermore, to confirm whether combined or alone of acupuncture and RehaCom cognitive training, is more effective than conventional treatment in the management of post-stroke cognitive dysfunction.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry: ChiCTR-TRC-13003704.

Registration date: 4 September, 2013.

Nitidine chloride induces apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, and synergistic cytotoxicity with doxorubicin in breast cancer cells

Medicinal plant extracts have been widely used for cancer treatment. Nitidine chloride (NC) is a natural bioactive alkaloid that has recently been reported to have diverse anticancer properties. We aimed to investigate the cytotoxic effects of NC and the effectiveness of combinatorial treatment including NC and doxorubicin in breast cancer cells. Using MTT and flowcytometry assays, we found that NC induced cell growth inhibition and G2/M cell cycle arrest in a time- and dose-dependent manner both in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell lines. Cancer cell growth inhibition was associated with increased levels of the p53 and p21 proteins. Apoptosis induction by NC treatment was confirmed by JC-1 mitochondrial membrane potential, annexin V-positive cell, and TUNEL staining. Using western blot analysis, we found that NC upregulated the pro-apoptotic proteins Bax, cleaved caspase-9 and -3 and cleaved PARP and that it downregulated the anti-apoptotic proteins Bcl-2 and PARP. By using the PI3K/Akt inhibitor LY294002, we further demonstrated that NC-induced apoptosis might be Akt-specific or dependent. In addition, NC exhibited a synergistic effect with doxorubicin on the growth inhibition of the human breast cancer cell lines MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231. Our study demonstrated the anticancer effect of NC on breast cancer and highlighted the potential clinical application of NC.

miRNAs affect the development of hepatocellular carcinoma via dysregulation of their biogenesis and expression

The pathogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is not fully understood, which has affected the early diagnosis and treatment of HCC and the survival time of patients. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of evolutionarily conserved small, non-coding RNAs, which regulate the expression of various genes post-transcriptionally. Emerging evidence indicates that the key enzymes involved in the miRNA biosynthesis pathway and some tumor-specific miRNAs are widely deregulated or upregulated in HCC and closely associated with the occurrence and development of various cancers, including HCC. Early studies have shown that miRNAs have critical roles in HCC progression by targeting many critical protein-coding genes, thereby contributing to the promotion of cell proliferation; the avoidance of apoptosis, inducing via angiogenesis; and the activation of invasion and metastasis pathways. Experimental data indicate that discovery of increasing numbers of aberrantly expressed miRNAs has opened up a new field for investigating the molecular mechanism of HCC progression. In this review, we describe the current knowledge about the roles and validated targets of miRNAs in the above pathways that are known to be hallmarks of HCC, and we also describe the influence of genetic variations in miRNA biosynthesis and genes.

Qianliening capsule inhibits benign prostatic hyperplasia angiogenesis via the HIF-1α signaling pathway

Angiogenesis plays an important role in the progression and development of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and has become a promising target for BPH treatment. The hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) signaling pathway promotes the process of angiogenesis, contributing to the growth and progression of a number of hyperplasia diseases, including BPH. Qianliening capsule (QC) is a traditional Chinese formula that has been used clinically in China to treat BPH for a number of years. Recently, QC was demonstrated to inhibit prostatic cell growth and induce apoptosis in vivo and in vitro via regulating the epidermal growth factor/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 signaling pathway and mitochondrion-dependent apoptosis pathway. However, the mechanisms underlying the anti-BPH effect remain largely unknown. To further elucidate the mechanism of QC activity in BPH treatment, a rat BPH model established by injecting testosterone following castration was established and the effect of QC on prostatic tissue angiogenesis was evaluated, as well as the underlying molecular mechanisms. QC was shown to reduce the prostatic index in BPH rats, but without affecting the body weight, demonstrating that QC is effective in the treatment of BPH and without apparent toxicity. In addition, QC treatment significantly reduced the intraprostatic microvessel density, indicating antiangiogenesis activity in vivo. In addition, treatment with QC inhibited the expression of HIF-1α in BPH rats, as well as the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor and basic fibroblast growth factor. Therefore, for the first time, the present study hypothesized that QC inhibits angiogenesis in prostatic tissue of BPH rats via the inhibition of the HIF-1α signaling pathway, which may be one of the mechanisms in which QC treats BPH.

The contribution of human OCT1, OCT3, and CYP3A4 to nitidine chloride-induced hepatocellular toxicity

Nitidine chloride (NC), a quaternary ammonium alkaloid, has numerous pharmacological effects, such as anticancer activity. However, it was found that NC also has hepatocellular toxicity. Because organic cation transporters 1 and 3 (OCT1 and OCT3) might mediate the influx of NC into hepatocytes, multidrug and toxin extrusion 1 (MATE1) probably mediates the efflux of NC from hepatocytes, while cytochrome P450 (P450) enzymes might contribute to NC metabolism, the present study was to evaluate the contribution of OCT1, OCT3, MATE1, and P450 enzymes to NC-induced hepatocellular toxicity. Our results showed that the uptake of NC in Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells expressing human (h) OCT1 and OCT3 (MDCK-hOCT1 and MDCK-hOCT3) was significantly higher than that in mock cells; the hOCT1- and hOCT3-mediated uptake followed typical Michaelis-Menten kinetics. Meanwhile, NC was also a substrate of hMATE1, although its transport capacity was much lower than that of OCT1 NC-induced cytotoxicity in MDCK-hOCT1 or MDCK-hOCT3 cells was obviously higher than that in mock cells. Quinidine and (+)-tetrahydropalmatine [(+)-THP], OCT1 and OCT3 inhibitors, significantly reduced the uptake of NC in MDCK-hOCT1 cells, MDCK-hOCT3 cells, and rat primary hepatocytes, but only (+)-THP markedly attenuated the NC-induced toxicity. In addition, P450 enzymes, such as CYP3A4, mediated the metabolism of NC, and NC-induced toxicity in MDCK-hOCT1/hCYP3A4 cells was lower than that in MDCK-hOCT1 cells. Our results indicated that NC is a substrate of hOCT1, hOCT3, and CYP3A4; that OCT1 and OCT3 mediate the uptake of NC in hepatocytes and subsequently cause hepatotoxicity; and that NC-induced toxicity could be attenuated by CYP3A4-mediated metabolism.

Use of dietary phytochemicals to target inflammation, fibrosis, proliferation, and angiogenesis in uterine tissues: promising options for prevention and treatment of uterine fibroids?

Uterine leiomyomas (fibroids, myomas) are the most common benign tumors of female reproductive tract. They are highly prevalent, with 70-80% of women burdened by the end of their reproductive years. Fibroids are a leading cause of pelvic pain, abnormal vaginal bleeding, pressure on the bladder, miscarriage, and infertility. They are the leading indication for hysterectomy, and costs exceed 6 billion dollars annually in the United States. Unfortunately, no long-term medical treatments are available. Dysregulation of inflammatory processes are thought to be involved in the initiation of leiomyoma and extracellular matrix deposition, cell proliferation, and angiogenesis are the key cellular events implicated in leiomyoma growth. In modern pharmaceutical industries, dietary phytochemicals are used as source of new potential drugs for many kinds of tumors. Dietary phytochemicals may exert therapeutic effects by interfering with key cellular events of the tumorigenesis process. At present, a negligible number of phytochemicals have been tested as therapeutic agents against fibroids. In this context, our aim was to introduce some of the potential dietary phytochemicals that have shown anti-inflammatory, antiproliferative, antifibrotic, and antiangiogenic activities in different biological systems. This review could be useful to stimulate the evaluation of these phytochemicals as possible therapies for uterine fibroids.

Electrical Stimulation at the ST36 Acupoint Protects against Sepsis Lethality and Reduces Serum TNF Levels through Vagus Nerve- and Catecholamine-Dependent Mechanisms

Electrical vagus nerve (VN) stimulation during sepsis attenuates tumor necrosis factor (TNF) production through the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway, which depends on the integrity of the VN and catecholamine production. To characterize the effect of electroacupuncture at ST36 (EA-ST36) on serum TNF, IL-6, nitrite, and HMGB1 levels and survival rates, based on VN integrity and catecholamine production, a sepsis model was induced in rats using cecal ligation and puncture (CLP). The septic rats were subsequently treated with EA-ST36 (CLP+ST36), and serum samples were collected and analyzed for cytokines levels. The serum TNF, IL-6, nitrite, and HMGB1 levels in the CLP+ST36 group were significantly lower compared with the group without treatment, the survival rates were significantly higher (P < 0.05), and the acute organ injury induced by CLP was mitigated by EA-ST36; however, when subdiaphragmatic vagotomy was performed, the serum levels of TNF in the CLP+ST36 group did not show a significant difference compared with the group without electrostimulation, and, similarly, no significant difference in serum TNF levels was found under the pharmacological blockade of catecholamines. These results suggest that in rats with CLP sepsis models EA-ST36 reduces serum TNF levels through VN- and atecholamine-dependent mechanisms.

Tougu Xiaotong capsule promotes chondrocyte autophagy by regulating the Atg12/LC3 conjugation systems

We have previously reported that Tougu Xiaotong capsule (TXC) inhibits tidemark replication and cartilage degradation by regulating chondrocyte autophagy in vivo. Autophagy, a cell protective mechanism for maintaining cellular homeostasis, has been shown to be a constitutively active and protective process for chondrocyte survival. However, it remains unclear whether TXC promotes chondrocyte autophagy by regulating the autophagy-related (Atg)12/microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 (LC3) conjugation systems. Thus, in the present study, we investigated the effects of TXC on primary chondrocytes treated with cobalt chloride (CoCl2). We found that CoCl2 induced a decrease in chondrocyte viability and the autophagosome formation of chondrocytes, indicating that CoCl2 induced autophagic death in a dose- and time-dependent manner. To determine the effects of TXC on CoCl2-exposed chondrocytes, we assessed cell viability by MTT assay. Our results revealed that TXC enhanced the viability of CoCl2-exposed chondrocytes. To gain insight into the mechanisms responsible for the enhancing effects of TXC on CoCl2-exposed chondrocytes, the expression of Atg genes was assessed in chondrocytes exposed to CoCl2 and treated with or without TXC. The results revealed that the expression of beclin 1, Atg3, Atg5, Atg7, Atg10, Atg12 and LC3 II/LC3 I in the chondrocytes treated with TXC increased, compared to that in the untreated chondrocytes. In addition, ultrastructural analysis indicated that treated chondrocytes contained more autophagosomes than the untreated cells, suggesting that TXC increased the formation of autophagosomes in the chondrocytes to clear the CoCl2-induced autophagic death. Therefore, these data suggest that TXC is a potential therapeutic agent for the reduction of cartilage degradation that occurs in osteoarthritis.

Effects of Ciji Hua'ai Baosheng granule formula (CHBGF) on life time, pathology, peripheral blood cells of tumor chemotherapy model mouse with H22 hepatoma carcinoma cells

BACKGROUND

Ciji Hua'ai Baosheng Granule Formula (CHBGF) is a traditional Chinese empirical formula that can help the tumor patients who have received chemotherapy antagonize the toxin and side-effects so as to improve and prolong the life. This study is to evaluate the effects of CHBGF on improving life quality in terms of survival time, pathology of tumor tissue and ameliorating peripheral blood cells in mouse chemotherapy model with subcutaneous transplanted tumor or ascitic tumor of H22 hepatoma carcinoma cells at an overall level.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

71 mice among the 92 Kunming mice were injected subcutaneously into the right anterior armpit with H22 hepatoma carcinoma cells, after 7 days, which had formed tumors and were used peritoneal injection of Cytoxan (CTX) (200mg/kg) to establish the mouse chemotherapy model with transplanted tumor, and then which were commensurately divided into 8 groups by random digits table. 21 mice were injected into peritoneal cavity to use CTX and the same method to establish the model. The groups for evaluating the effects on the survival time were the model, CHBGF and positive control group respectively with 7 mice in each group. The groups for evaluating the effects on anti-cancer were the model group, three treatment groups and positive control group with 10 mice in each group. The survival-time-observing groups were given intragastric administration of normal saline, CHBGF (64g/kg) once a day, and peritoneal injection of 5-Fluorouracil (25mg/kg) once every other day respectively. The survival time of each group was observed. The five anti-cancer-observing groups were given intragastric administration of normal saline, CHBGF (64g/kg, 32g/kg and 16g/kg) once a day, and peritoneal injection of 5-Fluorouracil (25mg/kg) once every other day respectively. After treatment for 21 days, the transplanted tumors were peeled off. Blood was collected through pricking eyeball and analyzed by hematology analyzer. And postchemotherapy transplanted tumor inhibition ratios were calculated. Pathological changes of tumor tissues and blood smears were observed with light microscope.

RESULTS

The life prolonging rate of CHBGF (64g/kg) group with transplanted tumor is 20.14%, and their survival time was longer than that of the 5-Fluorouracil group (P<0.05). Life prolonging rate of CHBGF (64g/kg) group with ascitic tumor is 64.15%, the survival time was longer than that of the model group (P<0.01) and the 5-Fluorouracil group (P<0.05). The growth of the transplanted tumor in model group was faster than that in CHBGF (64g/kg) group and 5-Fluorouracil group (P<0.05). The tumor average weight of the positive drug and the CHBGF (64g/kg, 32g/kg) groups was lighter than that of the model group (P<0.05 or P<0.01). The inhibition ratios of CHBGF (64g/kg, 32g/kg and 16g/kg) groups are 31.15%, 21.31%, and 13.11% respectively. Under light microscope, in the positive drug and three CHBGF groups the pathological deteriorated severity of tumor tissue observed was milder than that in the model group, the distribution of WBC in CHBGF groups was more obvious than that of the model and 5-Fluorouracil groups. The WBC and PLT decrease in CHBGF (64g/kg, 32g/kg and 16g/kg) groups is less than the model and the 5-Fluorouracil group (P<0.05 or P<0.01), the number of RBC and HGB just in the CHBGF (64g/kg) group was more than that of the model group or the 5-Fluorouracil group (P<0.05).

CONCLUSION

Ciji Hua'ai Baosheng Granule Formula can prolong the survival time of the mice chemotherapy model of both subcutaneous transplanted tumor and ascitic tumor of H22 hepatoma carcinoma cells, has some determinate inhibitory effects on the growth of subcutaneous transplanted tumor chemo-treated, and has the therapeutic effect on antagonizing decrease of WBC and PLT caused by chemotherapy.

Electroacupuncture attenuates cervical spinal cord injury following cerebral ischemia/reperfusion in stroke-prone renovascular hypertensive rats

Cerebral ischemia induces injury, not only in the ischemic core and surrounding penumbra tissues, but also in remote areas such as the cervical spinal cord. The aim of the present study was to determine the effects of electroacupuncture (EA) on cervical spinal cord injury following cerebral ischemia/reperfusion in stroke-prone renovascular hypertensive (RHRSP) rats. The results demonstrated that neuronal loss, which was assayed by Nissl staining in the cervical spinal cords of RHRSP rats subjected to transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO), was markedly decreased by EA stimulation at the GV20 (Baihui) and GV14 (Dazhui) acupoints compared with that in rats undergoing sham stimulation. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis demonstrated that EA stimulation blocked the MCAO-induced elevated protein expression levels of glial fibrillary acidic protein and amyloid precursor protein in the cervical spinal cord at days 24 and 48. To further investigate the mechanism underlying the neuroprotective role of EA stimulation, the protein expression levels of Nogo-A and Nogo-66 receptor-1 (NgR1), two key regulatory molecules for neurite growth, were recorded in each group. The results revealed that EA stimulation reduced the MCAO-induced elevation of Nogo-A and NgR1 protein levels at day 14 and 28 in RHRSP rats. Therefore, the results demonstrated that EA reduced cervical spinal cord injury following cerebral ischemia in RHRSP rats, indicating that EA has the potential to be developed as a therapeutic treatment agent for cervical spinal cord injury following stroke.

Thrombospondin-1 activation of signal-regulatory protein-α stimulates reactive oxygen species production and promotes renal ischemia reperfusion injury

Ischemia reperfusion injury (IRI) causes tissue and organ injury, in part, through alterations in tissue blood flow and the production of reactive oxygen species. The cell surface receptor signal-regulatory protein-α (SIRP-α) is expressed on inflammatory cells and suppresses phagocytosis, but the function of SIRP-α in IRI has not been determined. We reported previously that the matricellular protein thrombospondin-1 is upregulated in IRI. Here, we report a novel interaction between thrombospondin-1 and SIRP-α on nonphagocytic cells. In cell-free experiments, thrombospondin-1 bound SIRP-α. In vascular smooth muscle cells and renal tubular epithelial cells, treatment with thrombospondin-1 led to phosphorylation of SIRP-α and downstream activation of Src homology domain 2-containing phosphatase-1. Thrombospondin-1 also stimulated phosphorylation of p47(phox) (an organizer subunit for nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase 1/2) and increased production of superoxide, both of which were abrogated by knockdown or antibody blockade of SIRP-α. In rodent aortic rings, treatment with thrombospondin-1 increased the production of superoxide and inhibited nitric oxide-mediated vasodilation in a SIRP-α-dependent manner. Renal IRI upregulated the thrombospondin-1-SIRP-α signaling axis and was associated with increased superoxide production and cell death. A SIRP-α antibody that blocks thrombospondin-1 activation of SIRP-α mitigated the effects of renal IRI, increasing blood flow, suppressing production of reactive oxygen species, and preserving cellular architecture. A role for CD47 in SIRP-α activation in these pathways is also described. Overall, these results suggest that thrombospondin-1 binding to SIRP-α on nonphagocytic cells activates NADPH oxidase, limits vasodilation, and promotes renal IRI.

Chemical composition, antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and a pro-apoptotic effect in SGC-7901 of the essential oil from Toona sinensis (A. Juss.) Roem. leaves

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Leaves of Toona sinensis (A. Juss.) Roem. (TSL), a popular vegetable in China, have anti-inflammatory, antidoting, and worm-killing effects and are used in folk medicine for the treatment of enteritis, dysentery, carbuncles, boils, and especially abdominal tumors. Our aim was to investigate the in vitro antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and anticancer property of the essential oil from TSL (TSL-EO), especially the pro-apoptotic effect in SGC-7901.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

TSL-EO obtained by hydrodistillation was analyzed by GC/MS and was tested in vitro against twenty clinically isolated strains of Staphylococcus aureus (SA 1-20), which were either methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) or methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and two standard strains viz. ATCC 25923 and ATCC 43300. The anticancer activity of TSL-EO was evaluated in vitro against HepG2, SGC7901, and HT29 through MTT assay. Moreover, the apoptosis-inducing activity of TSL-EO in SGC7901 cells was determined by Hoechst 33324 staining and flow cytometry methods. Also, the apoptosis-related proteins viz. Bax, Bcl-2 and caspase-3 were detected by western-blotting.

RESULTS

GC-MS analysis showed that TSL-EO contained a high amount of sesquiterpenes (84.64%), including copaene (8.27%), β-caryophyllene (10.16%), caryophyllene (13.18%) and β-eudesmene (5.06%). TSL-EO inhibited the growth of both MSSA and MRSA, with the lowest MIC values of 0.125 and 1mg/ml, respectively. Treatment with TSL-EO for 24h could significantly suppress the viability of three different cancer cell lines (P<0.05). Furthermore, the apoptosis-inducing activity of TSL-EO in SGC7901 cells increased in a dose-dependent manner, potentially resulting from the up-regulated expression of Bax, caspase-3 and down-regulated expression of Bcl-2.

CONCLUSIONS

TSL-EO possessed antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and significant cytotoxicity against cancer cells and particularly prominent pro-apoptotic activity in SGC7901 cells. These bioactivities were probably due to the high content of sesquiterpenes. Our results suggested that TSL-EO possessed potential health benefits and could serve as a promising natural food addictive.