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Jędrejko K, Catlin O, Stewart T, Anderson A, Muszyńska B, Catlin DH. Unauthorized ingredients in "nootropic" dietary supplements: A review of the history, pharmacology, prevalence, international regulations, and potential as doping agents. Drug Test Anal 2023. [PMID: 37357012 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
The first nootropic prohibited in sport was fonturacetam (4-phenylpiracetam, carphedon) in 1998. Presented here 25 years later is a broad-scale consideration of the history, pharmacology, prevalence, regulations, and doping potential of nootropics viewed through a lens of 50 selected dietary supplements (DS) marketed as "cognitive enhancement," "brain health," "brain boosters," or "nootropics," with a focus on unauthorized ingredients. Nootropic DS have risen to prominence over the last decade often as multicomponent formulations of bioactive ingredients presenting compelling pharmacological questions and potential public health concerns. Many popular nootropics are unauthorized food or DS ingredients according to the European Commission including huperzine A, yohimbine, and dimethylaminoethanol; unapproved pharmaceuticals like phenibut or emoxypine (mexidol); previously registered drugs like meclofenoxate or reserpine; EU authorized pharmaceuticals like piracetam or vinpocetine; infamous doping agents like methylhexaneamine or dimethylbutylamine; and other investigational substances and peptides. Several are authorized DS ingredients in the United States resulting in significant global variability as to what qualifies as a legal nootropic. Prohibited stimulants or ß2-agonists commonly used in "pre-workout," "weight loss," or "thermogenic" DS such as octodrine, hordenine, or higenamine are often stacked with nootropic substances. While stimulants and ß2-agonists are defined as doping agents by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), many nootropics are not, although some may qualify as non-approved substances or related substances under catch-all language in the WADA Prohibited List. Synergistic combinations, excessive dosing, or recently researched pharmacology may justify listing certain nootropics as doping agents or warrant additional attention in future regulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karol Jędrejko
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Botany, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kraków, Poland
| | - Oliver Catlin
- Banned Substances Control Group (BSCG), Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Timothy Stewart
- Banned Substances Control Group (BSCG), Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Ashley Anderson
- International Sports Pharmacists Network, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Bożena Muszyńska
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Botany, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kraków, Poland
| | - Don H Catlin
- Banned Substances Control Group (BSCG), Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Medicine and Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, University of California Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, California, USA
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2
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Sawangjit R, Chuenchom C, Sanverm T, Chaiyakunapruk N, Jiranukool J, Nithipaijit R, Sadoyu S, Phianchana C, Jinatongthai P. Efficacy and safety of herbal medicine on dementia and cognitive function: An umbrella review of systematic reviews and meta-analysis. Phytother Res 2023. [PMID: 36728740 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/22/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
This study aims to summarize the effects of herbs on dementia and assess the strength of evidence. Six international and local databases were searched from inception to October 2021 for systematic reviews and meta-analyses of clinical trials investigated the effects of herbal medicine on dementia or cognitive function. Two researchers independently extracted data, assessed the methodological quality, and rated the credibility of evidence according to established criteria. Thirty-seven articles evaluating 13 herbal medicines were included. Of these, 65% were rated critically low using AMSTAR2. Of 90 unique outcomes, 41 (45.6%) were statistically significant based on random effects model (p ≤ .05). Only 3 herbs were supported by suggestive evidence whereas the others were supported by weak evidence. The suggestive evidence supported benefits of Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) plus pharmacotherapy (WMD:1.84; 95% CI: 1.34, 2.35) and Vinpocetine (WMD: -0.94; 95%CI: -1.50, -0.38) on improving cognitive function assessing by Montreal Cognitive Assessment and Syndrom-Kurz-Test, respectively. Moreover, suggestive evidence supported benefit of Huperzia serrata on improving Activities of Daily Living (WMD:-7.18; 95%CI: -9.12, -5.23). No SAE was reported. In conclusion, several herbs were used for improving dementia and cognitive function but recent evidence were limited by the small sample size and poor methodological quality. Therefore, further large and well-designed studies are needed to support the evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ratree Sawangjit
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mahasarakham University, Mahasarakham, Thailand.,Clinical Trials and Evidence-Based Syntheses Research Unit (CTEBs RU), Mahasarakham University, Mahasarakham, Thailand
| | - Chorthip Chuenchom
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mahasarakham University, Mahasarakham, Thailand
| | - Thanchanok Sanverm
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mahasarakham University, Mahasarakham, Thailand
| | - Nathorn Chaiyakunapruk
- Department of Pharmacotherapy, College of Pharmacy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Jariya Jiranukool
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Mahasarakham University, Mahasarakham, Thailand
| | - Rodchares Nithipaijit
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mahasarakham University, Mahasarakham, Thailand.,Clinical Trials and Evidence-Based Syntheses Research Unit (CTEBs RU), Mahasarakham University, Mahasarakham, Thailand
| | | | - Chankiat Phianchana
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mahasarakham University, Mahasarakham, Thailand
| | - Peerawat Jinatongthai
- Pharmacy Practice Division, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ubon Ratchathani University, Ubon Ratchathani, Thailand
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3
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Reporting Quality of Oral TCM Systematic Reviews Based on the PRISMA Harms Checklist from 2013 to 2020. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2023; 2023:4612036. [PMID: 36733845 PMCID: PMC9889160 DOI: 10.1155/2023/4612036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Background Systematic reviews focusing on the effectiveness of different kinds of healthcare interventions have been widely published, but there were few guidelines for reporting safety concerns before 2016. The PRISMA harms checklist, which was published in 2016, can standardize reporting quality. Objectives To evaluate the safety information reporting quality of oral traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in systematic reviews before and after the PRISMA harms checklist was published and to explore factors associated with better reporting. Methods We searched PubMed, the Cochrane Library, and Embase to identify all systematic reviews using oral TCM as interventions published before (from 2013 to 2015) and after (from 2017 to 2020) the PRISMA harms checklist was published. We used the PRISMA harms checklist to assess the quality of reporting of the safety information to included systematic reviews. Results In total, 200 systematic reviews were sampled from eligible studies published between 2013 and 2020. Reviews from 2016 were excluded. Scores on the PRISMA harms checklist (23 items) ranged from 0 to 12. A systematic reviews published after 2016 had better reporting quality compared with studies published before 2016 with regard to the title (P=0.03), results of individual studies (P=0.016), and risk of bias across studies (P=0.043). In all included systematic reviews of our study, the state conclusion in coherence with review findings was reported adequately with the proportion of adherence at 95%; other items had a reporting proportion ranging from 0% to 57%. The four essential reporting items of the PRISMA harms checklist also had a low reporting quality ranging from 0% to 4%. Conclusions Oral TCM systematic reviews reported inadequate safety information before and after the PRISMA harms checklist was published. This survey suggested that the PRISMA harms checklist should be recommended more to both original research and systematic review authors.
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Wang X, Peng Y, Zhou H, Du W, Wang J, Wang J, Wu T, Tang X, Lv Y, Gong J. The Effects of Enriched Rehabilitation on Cognitive Function and Serum Glutamate Levels Post-stroke. Front Neurol 2022; 13:829090. [PMID: 35370905 PMCID: PMC8967952 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.829090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim This study aimed to explore the effect of enriched rehabilitation (ER) on cognitive function and serum glutamate levels in patients with stroke. Methods Forty patients diagnosed with post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI), according to the inclusion criteria, and undergoing inpatient rehabilitation were enrolled in the study. Patients were randomly assigned to receive 8 weeks of ER treatment (ER group; n = 20) or conventional medical treatment (CM group; n = 20). In addition, 20 age-matched healthy subjects who were outpatients in our hospital during the same period formed the healthy control (HC) group. In- and between-group differences in cognitive function were assessed during pre-intervention and post-intervention based on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), the Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT), and the Trail Making Test (TMT). The serum levels of glutamate, tumor necrosis factor (TNF), and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were also detected pre-intervention and post-intervention. Results Pre-intervention cognitive function and the levels of all the serum parameters assessed significant difference between the HC group and the PSCI group (both ER and CM groups) (p < 0.05), but not between the two groups of patients with PSCI (p > 0.05). Significant improvements were observed in cognitive function in both the ER and the CM groups post-intervention compared with pre-intervention, as evidenced by the measured improvement in MoCA, SDMT, and TMT scores. Similar improvements were seen for serum glutamate, the degree of oxidative damage, and the level of inflammation in both the treatment groups (p < 0.05). More enhancements in cognitive function, including MoCA, SDMT, TMT scores, and the serum levels of glutamate, the degree of oxidative damage, and the level of inflammation were shown in the ER group compared with the CM group post-intervention (p < 0.05). Conclusions ER can improve cognitive function in patients with PSCI. The associated mechanism may be related to the negative regulatory effect of ER on serum glutamate, TNF, and MDA levels, which is likely to enhance synaptic plasticity and alleviate oxidative stress- and inflammation-related damage, at least to some extent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Wang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Xin Wang
| | - Yuan Peng
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hongyu Zhou
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Wanchun Du
- Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Junya Wang
- Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - JiaJin Wang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Yangzhou Clinical Medical College of Dalian Medical University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Tong Wu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Yangzhou Clinical Medical College of Dalian Medical University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Xiaojia Tang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Yichen Lv
- School of Rehabilitation Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Jianwei Gong
- School of Rehabilitation Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
- *Correspondence: Jianwei Gong
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5
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Shen W, Fan X, Wang L, Zhang Y. Traditional Chinese Medicine for Post-Stroke Cognitive Impairment: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:816333. [PMID: 35237166 PMCID: PMC8883343 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.816333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI) affects more than one-third of stroke patients, and causes much greater harm to long-term function than the initial brain damage. No conventional Western medications have shown convincing clinical effectiveness for treating PSCI. Research shows that Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) can improve cognitive function in patients. However, the clinical efficacy and safety remain controversial. The aim of this study was to examine the effectiveness and harmful effects of TCMs in the treatment of PSCI. Method: We searched seven databases and two clinical registration websites for randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The revised Cochrane risk of bias tool (RoB 2.0) was used to evaluate the methodological quality and RevMan 5.4 was used for data analysis. This study has been submitted to PROSPERO with registration number is CRD42020149299. Results: We included 34 studies in this review. The results of this study showed that TCM adjuvant therapy improved scores on the MoCA [MD = 2.55, 95% CI (1.56, 3.53), p < 0.00001; MD = 3.07, 95% CI (1.98, 4.17), p < 0.00001 at treatment duration of <3 and 3 months, respectively], MMSE [MD = 2.55, 95% CI (1.99, 3.10), p < 0.00001; MD = 2.53, 95% CI (1.59, 3.47), p < 0.00001; MD = 2.91, 95% CI (1.26, 4.56), p = 0.0006; MD = 3.11, 95% CI (-0.04, 6.27), p = 0.05 at treatment duration of <3, 3, 4, and 6 months, respectively], and BI [MD = 7.34, 95% CI (3.83, 10.85), p < 0.0001; MD = 8.98, 95% CI (4.76, 13.21), p < 0.0001 at treatment duration of <3 and 3 months, respectively] and reduced scores on the ADL (MD = -8.64, 95% CI (-9.83, -7.45), p < 0.00001; MD = -2.00, 95% CI (-2.94, -1.06), p < 0.0001 at treatment duration of 3 and 4 months, respectively], NIHSS [MD = -2.48, 95% CI (-4.97, 0.00), p = 0.05; MD = -3.81, 95% CI (-6.21, -1.40), p = 0.002 at treatment duration of <3 and 3 months, respectively], and CSS [MD = -2.47, 95% CI (-3.49, -1.45), p < 0.00001 at a treatment duration of 3 months]. No serious adverse reactions were observed. Conclusion: Despite the significant positive results, the present evidence supports, to a limited extent because of the methodological flaws and herbal heterogeneity, that TCM adjuvant therapy can be used for patients with PSCI. While, further rigorous RCTs are warranted to confirm the efficacy and safety of TCM. Systematic Review Registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero, identifier CRD42020149299.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Shen
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xueming Fan
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Liuding Wang
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yunling Zhang
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
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6
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Tian D, Gao Q, Chang Z, Lin J, Ma D, Han Z. Network pharmacology and in vitro studies reveal the pharmacological effects and molecular mechanisms of Shenzhi Jiannao prescription against vascular dementia. BMC Complement Med Ther 2022; 22:33. [PMID: 35109845 PMCID: PMC8812053 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-021-03465-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Shenzhi Jiannao (SZJN) prescription is a type of herbal formula adopted in the management of cognitive impairment and related disorders. However, its effects and related regulatory mechanisms on vascular dementia (VD) are elusive. Herein, network pharmacology prediction was employed to explore the pharmacological effects and molecular mechanisms of SZJN prescription on VD using network pharmacology prediction, and validated the results through in vitro experiments. Methods Through a search in the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform (TCMSP) database, chemical composition and targets for SZJN prescription were retrieved. The potential targets for VD were then obtained from the GeneCards and DisGeNET databases. The network was constructed that depicted the interactions between putative SZJN prescription and known therapeutic targets for VD using Cytoscape 3.7.1. Analysis of protein-protein interaction was achieved via STRING 11.0 software, followed by Gene Ontology (GO) functional enrichment and Kyoto Gene and Genome Encyclopedia (KEGG) pathway analyses. To validate the computer-predicted results, in vitro experiments based on an excitotoxic injury model were designed using glutamate-exposed PC12 cells, and treated with varying concentrations (low, 0.05; medium, 0.1 and high, 0.2 mg/mL) of SZJN prescription. Cell viability and cell death were detected using the IncuCyte imaging system. Moreover, the expression profiles of Caspase-3 were analyzed through qRT-PCR. Results Twenty-eight potentially active ingredients for SZJN prescription, including stigmasterol, beta-sitosterol, and kaempferol, plus 21 therapeutic targets for VD, including PTGS2, PTGS1, and PGR were revealed. The protein-protein interaction network was employed for the analysis of 20 target proteins, including CASP3, JUN, and AChE. The enrichment analysis demonstrated candidate targets of SZJN prescription were more frequently involved in neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction, calcium, apoptosis, and cholinergic synaptic signaling pathways. In vitro experiments revealed that SZJN prescription could significantly reverse glutamate-induced cell viability loss and cell death, and lower the levels of Caspase-3 mRNA in glutamate-induced PC12 cells. Conclusions Collectively, this study demonstrated that SZJN prescription exerted the effect of treating VD by regulating multi-targets and multi-channels with multi-components through the method of network pharmacology. Furthermore, in vitro results confirmed that SZJN prescription attenuated glutamate-induced neurotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danfeng Tian
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, No.11 East road, North 3rd Ring Road, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Qiang Gao
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, No.11 East road, North 3rd Ring Road, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Ze Chang
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, No.11 East road, North 3rd Ring Road, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Jingfeng Lin
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, No.11 East road, North 3rd Ring Road, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Dayong Ma
- Neurology Department of Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, No.5 Haiyuncang, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Zhenyun Han
- Shenzhen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine (Longgang), No.1 Dayun road, Sports New City Road, Shenzhen, 518172, China.
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7
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Liao Y, Wang J, Guo C, Bai M, Ju B, Ran Z, Hu J, Yang J, Wen A, Ding Y. Combination of Systems Pharmacology and Experimental Evaluation to Explore the Mechanism of Synergistic Action of Frankincense-Myrrh in the Treatment of Cerebrovascular Diseases. Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:796224. [PMID: 35082676 PMCID: PMC8784887 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.796224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Frankincense-Myrrh is a classic drug pair that promotes blood circulation, and eliminates blood stasis. The combination of the two drugs has a definite clinical effect on the treatment of cerebrovascular diseases (CBVDs), but its mechanism of action and compatibility have not been elucidated. In this study, the bioactive components, core targets, and possible synergistic mechanisms of Frankincense-Myrrh in the treatment of CBVDs are explored through systems pharmacology combined with in vivo and in vitro experiments. Comparing target genes of components in Frankincense and Myrrh with CBVD-related genes, common genes were identified; 15 core target genes of Frankincense-Myrrh for the treatment of CBVDs were then identified using protein-protein interaction (PPI) analysis. It was also predicted through Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis that the molecular mechanism of Frankincense-Myrrh action on CBVDs was mainly related to the regulation of neurotrophic factors and inflammatory responses. Frankincense-Myrrh significantly improved neurological function, decreased infarct volume, alleviated histopathological damage, inhibited microglial expression, and promoted the expression of neurons in middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO)-induced rats. The results of this study not only provide important theoretical support and experimental basis for the synergistic effect of Frankincense-Myrrh, but also provide new ideas for the prevention and treatment of cerebral ischemic injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yucheng Liao
- College of Pharmacy, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China.,Department of Pharmacy, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jingwen Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Chao Guo
- Department of Pharmacy, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Min Bai
- Department of Pharmacy, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Bowei Ju
- College of Pharmacy, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China
| | - Zheng Ran
- College of Pharmacy, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China
| | - Junping Hu
- College of Pharmacy, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China
| | - Jianhua Yang
- College of Pharmacy, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China.,Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China
| | - Aidong Wen
- Department of Pharmacy, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yi Ding
- Department of Pharmacy, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
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8
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Su XT, Sun N, Zhang N, Wang LQ, Zou X, Li JL, Yang JW, Shi GX, Liu CZ. Effectiveness and Safety of Acupuncture for Vascular Cognitive Impairment: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Front Aging Neurosci 2021; 13:692508. [PMID: 34421571 PMCID: PMC8377366 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2021.692508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Acupuncture may be a promising complementary therapy for vascular cognitive impairment (VCI) and has been extensively applied in China. However, its potential effects remain uncertain, and the clinical findings are inconsistent. This review aimed to systematically appraise the overall effectiveness and safety of acupuncture in treating VCI. Methods: To investigate the effects of acupuncture on VCI from inception to February 28, 2021 using randomized clinical trials (RCTs), seven electro-databases [Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), PubMed, Embase, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Chinese Biomedical Literature Database (CBM), VIP, and Wanfang] were searched. Two independent investigators identified the eligible RCTs and extracted data into predesigned forms. The risk of bias (ROB) within each individual trial was evaluated using the Cochrane Collaboration's tool. Meta-analyses were conducted for calculating comparative effects in the RevMan software (version 5.3). The strength of attained evidence was rated using the online GRADEpro approach. Results: A total of 48 RCTs involving 3,778 patients with VCI were included. The pooled data demonstrated that acupuncture was more beneficial for a global cognitive function [mean difference (MD) 1.86, 95% CI 1.19-2.54, p < 0.01] and activities of daily living (MD -3.08, 95% CI -4.81 to -1.35, p < 0.01) compared with western medicine (WM). The favorable results were also observed when acupuncture was combined with WM (MD 2.37, 95% CI 1.6-3.14, p < 0.01) or usual care (UC, MD 4.4, 95% CI 1.61-7.19, p = 0.002) in comparison with the corresponding control conditions. Meanwhile, the subgroup analysis did not indicate a statistical effect difference between manual acupuncture (MA) and electroacupuncture (EA) (inter-group I 2 < 50% and p > 0.1) when comparing acupuncture with WM. There were no significant differences in the occurrence of adverse events (AEs) between the acupuncture group and the control group (p > 0.05). Owing to the poor methodological quality and considerable heterogeneity among studies, the certainty of the evidence was low or very low. Conclusions: This review suggests that acupuncture as a monotherapy or an adjuvant therapy may play a positive role in improving the cognition and daily performance of VCI patients associated with few side effects. The difference in styles may not significantly influence its effectiveness. More rigorously designed and preregistered RCTs are highly desirable to verify the therapeutic benefits and determine an optimal acupuncture paradigm. The methodological and reporting quality of future researches should be enhanced by adhering to authoritative standardized statements. Systematic Review Registration: [PROSPERO], identifier [No. CRD42017071820].
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Tong Su
- International Acupuncture and Moxibustion Innovation Institute, School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in the Prevention and Rehabilitation of Stroke Task Force, World Stroke Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Ning Sun
- Acupuncture and Tuina School/The 3rd Teaching Hospital, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Na Zhang
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Shandong University of Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Li-Qiong Wang
- International Acupuncture and Moxibustion Innovation Institute, School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xuan Zou
- International Acupuncture and Moxibustion Innovation Institute, School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Jin-Ling Li
- International Acupuncture and Moxibustion Innovation Institute, School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Jing-Wen Yang
- International Acupuncture and Moxibustion Innovation Institute, School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Guang-Xia Shi
- International Acupuncture and Moxibustion Innovation Institute, School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Cun-Zhi Liu
- International Acupuncture and Moxibustion Innovation Institute, School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in the Prevention and Rehabilitation of Stroke Task Force, World Stroke Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
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9
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Bai X, Zhang M. Traditional Chinese Medicine Intervenes in Vascular Dementia: Traditional Medicine Brings New Expectations. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:689625. [PMID: 34194332 PMCID: PMC8236843 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.689625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascular dementia (VD) is one of the most common forms of dementia, referring to a group of symptoms that mainly manifest as advanced neurocognitive dysfunction induced by cerebrovascular disease (CVD). A significant number of studies have shown that traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has a clinical impact on VD and thus has promising prospects. There have been many discussions regarding the pharmacological mechanisms involved in treatment of the kidney, elimination of turbidity, and promotion of blood circulation. TCM has a prominent effect on improving patients’ cognitive function and quality of life. In this review, we summarize the pathogenesis of VD in modern medicine and TCM, traditional prescriptions, single-agent effective ingredients and their pharmacological mechanisms for treating VD, highlight TCM’s characteristics, and discuss TCM’s multi-targeted mechanism for the treatment of VD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Bai
- Department of Gerontology and Geriatrics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Meng Zhang
- Department of Gerontology and Geriatrics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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10
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Zhang R, Zhao T, Zheng B, Zhang Y, Li X, Zhang F, Cen J, Duan S. Curcumin Derivative Cur20 Attenuated Cerebral Ischemic Injury by Antioxidant Effect and HIF-1α/VEGF/TFEB-Activated Angiogenesis. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:648107. [PMID: 33935747 PMCID: PMC8082391 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.648107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In this paper, a curcumin derivative Cur20 was synthesized for better hydrolytic stability, which showed a higher angiogenic effect on zebrafish model than curcumin. In order to reveal the potential effects on neuroprotection, a mouse model of vascular dementia (VaD) induced by permanent right common carotid artery occlusion (rUCCAO) was established. After two weeks of curcumin administration, the cognitive function of mice was detected by Morris water maze and Y maze. The alteration on oxidative injuries and morphological damage were also analyzed by reactive oxygen species, superoxide dismutase, GSH, malondialdehyde tests, and Nissl stain on cortex/hippocampus. The angiogenesis and related signal factors were evaluated as well. The results showed that Cur20 significantly attenuated the cognitive dysfunction and histopathological changes of the VaD mice with enhanced antioxidant system and angiogenesis. In addition, primary rat brain microvessel endothelial cells (rBMECs) with oxygen glucose deprivation (OGD) were applied to further verify the possible mechanisms of Cur20-induced angiogenesis. The results demonstrated that the proliferation effect and the activation of pro-angiogenesis factors such as HIF-1α, VEGF, and TFEB might contribute to the protection of ischemic injury. Based on the above, our conclusion is that Cur20 can be considered as a promising therapeutic strategy for VaD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Runfang Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Natural Medicine and Immune Engineering, School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Tingkui Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Natural Medicine and Immune Engineering, School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Beibei Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Natural Medicine and Immune Engineering, School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Yun Zhang
- Biology Institute, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan, China
| | - Xiaohui Li
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Feng Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Natural Medicine and Immune Engineering, School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Juan Cen
- Key Laboratory of Natural Medicine and Immune Engineering, School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Shaofeng Duan
- Key Laboratory of Natural Medicine and Immune Engineering, School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng, China.,Henan International Joint Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Efficacy, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
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11
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Shi H, Dong C, Wang M, Liu R, Wang Y, Kan Z, Wang L, Si G. Exploring the mechanism of Yizhi Tongmai decoction in the treatment of vascular dementia through network pharmacology and molecular docking. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2021; 9:164. [PMID: 33569466 PMCID: PMC7867933 DOI: 10.21037/atm-20-8165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vascular dementia (VaD) is a degenerative cerebrovascular disease that leads to progressive decline of patients' cognitive ability and memory. Yizhi Tongmai (YZTM) decoction is an empirical prescription first formulated by Professor Guomin Si. Our previous experiments proved the effectiveness of this prescription in the treatment of VaD. In this study, we aimed to use network pharmacology and molecular docking technology to systematically explain the potential anti-VaD mechanism of YZTM. METHODS We identified the core compounds of YZTM and their potential targets through the TCMSP, BATMAN, and SwissTargetPrediction databases. Then, we identified the molecular targets of YZTM in VaD using the Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man and GeneCards databases. The common targets of YZTM and VaD were screened out, and then the pathways of these target genes were analyzed using the Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery v6.8. Molecular docking was used to verify the relationship between the core compounds and proteins. RESULTS Through network pharmacology analysis, we discovered that the 5 core compounds in YZTM exert an anti-VaD effect. The potential mechanism of YZTM anti-VaD may be through inhibiting the NLRP3 inflammasome, TNF signaling pathway, and toll-like receptor signaling pathways. Subsequently, key compounds were docked with related proteins in the NLRP3 inflammasome (NLRP3, ASC, caspase-1, interleukin-18, and interleukin-1 β) using molecular docking technology. The compounds were found to spontaneously bind to the proteins. CONCLUSIONS YZTM may exert an anti-VaD effect through inhibition of the NLRP3 inflammasome. In addition, TNF signaling pathway and toll-like receptor signaling pathway may also be its underlying mechanism. The application of network pharmacology and molecular docking technology may provide a novel method for research of Chinese herbal medicine. YZTM may also provide a complementary treatment option for patients with VaD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongshuo Shi
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Chengda Dong
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Min Wang
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Experimental Center, Jinan, China
| | - Ruxue Liu
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Yao Wang
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Zunqi Kan
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Lei Wang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Guomin Si
- Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
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12
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Lee B, Leem J, Kim H, Jo HG, Kwon CY. Herbal Medicine for Traumatic Brain Injury: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials and Limitations. Front Neurol 2020; 11:772. [PMID: 33071922 PMCID: PMC7530840 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.00772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness (functional outcomes and clinical symptoms) and safety (incidence of adverse events) of herbal medicine (HM) as monotherapy or adjunctive therapy to conventional treatment (CT) for traumatic brain injury (TBI). Methods: We comprehensively searched 14 databases from their inception until July 2019. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) using HM as monotherapy or adjunctive therapy to treat TBI patients were included. The primary outcome was functional outcomes, consciousness state, morbidity, and mortality. Meta-analysis was performed to calculate a risk ratio (RR) or mean difference (MD) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs), when appropriate data were available. Methodological quality of RCTs and the strength of evidence were also assessed. Results: Thirty-seven RCTs with 3,374 participants were included. According to meta-analysis, HM as a monotherapy (RR 1.29, 95% CI: 1.21–1.37) or an adjunctive therapy to CT (RR 1.21, 95% CI: 1.16–1.27) showed significantly better total effective rate based on clinical symptoms, compared to CT alone. Subgroup analysis showed that HM had significantly improved post-concussion syndrome, dizziness, headache, epilepsy, and mild TBI, but not traumatic brain edema, compared to CT. Moreover, HM combined with CT had significantly improved post-concussion syndrome, mental disorder, headache, epilepsy, and mild TBI-like symptoms, but not cognitive dysfunction and posttraumatic hydrocephalus, compared to CT alone. When HM was combined with CT, functional outcomes such as activities of daily living and neurological function were significantly better than in patients treated using CT alone. In terms of the incidence of adverse events, HM did not differ from either CT (RR 0.88, 95% CI: 0.33–2.30) or placebo (RR 2.29, 95% CI: 0.83–6.32). However, HM combined with CT showed better safety profile than CT alone (RR 0.64, 95% CI: 0.44–0.93). Most studies had a high risk of performance bias, and the quality of evidence was mostly rated “very low” to “moderate,” mostly because the included studies had a high risk of bias and imprecise quantitative synthesis results. Conclusion: The current evidence suggests that there is insufficient evidence for recommending HM for TBI in clinical practice. Therefore, further larger, high-quality, rigorous RCTs should be conducted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boram Lee
- Clinical Medicine Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Jungtae Leem
- Research and Development Institute, CY Pharma Co., Seoul, South Korea.,Chung-Yeon Central Institute, Gwangju, South Korea
| | - Hyunho Kim
- Chung-Yeon Central Institute, Gwangju, South Korea
| | - Hee-Geun Jo
- Chung-Yeon Central Institute, Gwangju, South Korea.,Chung-Yeon Korean Medicine Hospital, Gwangju, South Korea
| | - Chan-Young Kwon
- Department of Oriental Neuropsychiatry, Dong-eui University College of Korean Medicine, Busan, South Korea
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Kim TH, Kang JW. Herbal Medicine for Vascular Dementia: An Overview of Systematic Reviews. Curr Vasc Pharmacol 2019; 18:394-409. [PMID: 31258089 DOI: 10.2174/1570161117666190618164443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2018] [Revised: 04/22/2019] [Accepted: 06/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Vascular dementia (VaD), a severe neurologic condition related to aging of the cerebrovascular structure, has been treated with herbal medications and products. In this overview of systematic reviews (SRs) on the effects of herbal medications, we aimed to summarize the current clinical evidence on the benefits of herbal drugs and to propose an evidence map outlining their effects on VaD. METHODS SRs assessing their effects on cognitive function or performance and the associated safety, published until December 2018, were located from PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and Oriental Medicine Advanced Searching Integrated System. A Measurement Tool to Assess systematic Reviews 2 was used to assess their overall confidence. A bubble plot was proposed to present the depth and width of the current status of the evidence supporting the use of individual herbal drugs. RESULTS Ten SRs (4 on individual herbal medications and 6 on various herbal drugs) were included. The overall evidence on herbal medicines suggests that they are effective in improving cognitive function and performance. Individual herbal medications including FuFangHaiShe, NaoXinTong, YinDanXing- NaoTong, NaoMaiTai, ShenFuTang, and TongXinLuo showed favourable effects when assessed via a minimal mental state examination score but have limited evidence supporting their effectiveness due to the scarcity of randomized controlled trials. Concerning safety, most SRs did not outline the estimated risk ratio of adverse events. CONCLUSION Herbal medications might have benefits for VaD patients but they need to be evaluated further.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tae-Hun Kim
- Korean Medicine Clinical Trial Center, Korean Medicine Hospital, Kyung Hee University, #23 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 130-872, South Korea
| | - Jung Won Kang
- Department of Acupuncture & Moxibustion, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, #23 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 130-872, South Korea
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