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Guo Y, Zhao X, Xiao S, Lin Y, Xiao Z, Zhou W, Zhang Y. Impact of molecular weight and gastrointestinal digestion on the immunomodulatory effects of Lycium barbarum polysaccharides. Int J Biol Macromol 2024:133500. [PMID: 38944071 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.133500] [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: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/01/2024]
Abstract
In traditional Chinese medicine, Lycium barbarum is of rich medicinal value, and its polysaccharides are particularly interesting due to their significant pharmacological effects and potential health benefits. This study investigated the immunomodulatory effects of Lycium barbarum polysaccharides (LBPs) by examining their interaction with the TLR4/MD-2 complex and the impacts of gastrointestinal digestion on these interactions. We discovered that the affinity binding of LBPs for TLR4/MD-2 and their cytokine induction capability are influenced by molecular weight, with medium-sized LBPs (100-300 kDa) exhibiting stronger binding affinity and induction capability. Conversely, LBPs smaller than 10 kDa showed reduced activity. Additionally, the content of arabinose and galactose within the LBPs fractions was found to correlate positively with both receptor affinity and cytokine secretion. Simulated gastrointestinal digestion resulted in the degradation of LBPs into smaller fragments that are rich in glucose. Although these fragments exhibited decreased binding affinity to the TLR4/MD-2 complex, they maintained their activity to promote cytokine production. Our findings highlight the significance of molecular weight and specific monosaccharide composition in the immunomodulatory function of LBPs and emphasize the influence of gastrointestinal digestion on the effects of LBPs. This research contributes to a better understanding of the mechanisms underlying the immunomodulatory effects of traditional Chinese medicine polysaccharides and their practical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yizhen Guo
- Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing 100850, China; State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing 100850, China.
| | - Xueru Zhao
- Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing 100850, China; State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Shiqi Xiao
- Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing 100850, China; State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Yanling Lin
- Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing 100850, China; State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Zhiyong Xiao
- Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing 100850, China; State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Wenxia Zhou
- Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing 100850, China; State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Yongxiang Zhang
- Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing 100850, China; State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing 100850, China
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Zhang Y, Xue J, Chen Y, Huang X, Liu Z, Zhong H, Xie Q, Luo Y, Wang Q, Wang C. Modulation of Performance, Plasma Constituents, Small Intestinal Morphology, and Cecum Microbiota in Growing Geese by Dietary Citric Acid Supplementation. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:660. [PMID: 38473044 DOI: 10.3390/ani14050660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
To investigate the efficiency and optimum inclusion level of CA in growing geese diets on performance, plasma constituents, and intestinal health, 240 healthy female geese at the age of 28d were randomly allotted six treatment diets incorporated with 0, 0.8, 1.6, 2.4, 3.2, and 4% CA. Each treatment group consisted of five replicates and eight birds per replicate. The findings demonstrated that 3.2% CA supplementation resulted in improved growth performance (ADG, ADFI, and FBW) (p = 0.001), and geese who received CA also showed lower body fat contents (p < 0.05) than the control group. Moreover, geese from the 2.4% and 3.2% CA group had the highest plasma glutathione peroxidase and insulin-like growth factor 1 levels compared to the other groups (p < 0.05). A microbial diversity analysis of the cecum conducted by 16S rDNA sequencing revealed that 3.2% CA supplementation showed a significantly higher abundance of beneficial bacteria (Muribaculaceae, CHKCI001, Erysipelotricha-ceae_UCG_003, and UCG_009) (p < 0.05) and a lower abundance of harmful bacteria (Atopobiaceae, Streptococcus, Acinetobacter, Pseudomonas, and Alistipes) (p < 0.10). Collectively, our results revealed that dietary supplementation with 3.2% CA had several benefits on the performance and physiological health of growing geese by promoting nutrients metabolism, improving antioxidant capacity, and modulating cecum microbiota.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongkang Zhang
- Poultry Science Institute, Chongqing Academy of Animal Sciences, Rongchang, Chongqing 402460, China
| | - Jiajia Xue
- Poultry Science Institute, Chongqing Academy of Animal Sciences, Rongchang, Chongqing 402460, China
| | - Ying Chen
- Poultry Science Institute, Chongqing Academy of Animal Sciences, Rongchang, Chongqing 402460, China
| | - Xiaofeng Huang
- Poultry Science Institute, Chongqing Academy of Animal Sciences, Rongchang, Chongqing 402460, China
| | - Zuolan Liu
- Poultry Science Institute, Chongqing Academy of Animal Sciences, Rongchang, Chongqing 402460, China
| | - Hang Zhong
- Poultry Science Institute, Chongqing Academy of Animal Sciences, Rongchang, Chongqing 402460, China
| | - Qun Xie
- Poultry Science Institute, Chongqing Academy of Animal Sciences, Rongchang, Chongqing 402460, China
| | - Yi Luo
- Poultry Science Institute, Chongqing Academy of Animal Sciences, Rongchang, Chongqing 402460, China
| | - Qigui Wang
- Poultry Science Institute, Chongqing Academy of Animal Sciences, Rongchang, Chongqing 402460, China
- Scientific Observation and Experiment Station of Livestock Equipment Engineering in Southwest, Ministry of Agriculture, Rongchang, Chongqing 402460, China
| | - Chao Wang
- Poultry Science Institute, Chongqing Academy of Animal Sciences, Rongchang, Chongqing 402460, China
- Scientific Observation and Experiment Station of Livestock Equipment Engineering in Southwest, Ministry of Agriculture, Rongchang, Chongqing 402460, China
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Brecchia G, Muça G, Munga A, Menchetti L, Galosi L, Rossi G, Barbato O, Pastorelli G, Agradi S, Serra V, Sulçe M, Ozuni E, Turmalaj L, Castrica M, Ceccarini MR, Riva F, Fioretti B, Quattrone A, Marongiu ML, Curone G. Goji Berry in the Diet of the Rabbit Buck: Effects on Semen Quality, Oxidative Status and Histological Features of the Reproductive Tract. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1959. [PMID: 38001812 PMCID: PMC10669443 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12111959] [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: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Goji berry (GB) shows beneficial effects on human health, although its effects on the male rabbit have been little investigated. This study examines the impact of GB dietary supplementation on the semen traits, antioxidant capacity of seminal plasma, and histological features of the reproductive tract of rabbit buck. Eighteen rabbits were distributed into two dietary groups: one receiving a commercial feed (Control), and the other a feed supplemented with 1% of GB (Goji). After a nutritional adaptation period of 60 days, the animals were subjected to semen collection every 15 days. The semen traits, libido, antioxidant, and inflammatory parameters were collected and analyzed. The rabbits were sacrificed after 60 days, and tissues of the genital tract were analyzed. Compared to the Control group, the Goji group showed higher spermatozoa concentration, motility, and vitality (p < 0.05), as well as fewer abnormal spermatozoa and a higher libido (p < 0.1). Histological features such as functional activity and hyperplasia were improved by GB and correlated with some semen traits (p < 0.05). Conversely, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory parameters were unaffected by the diet. These findings suggest that GB acts on the tissues of the reproductive tract positively influencing semen quality, although further studies are needed to understand the effect on oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriele Brecchia
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Milan, Via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy; (G.B.); (G.P.); (S.A.); (V.S.); (F.R.); (A.Q.); (G.C.)
| | - Gerald Muça
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Agricultural University of Tirana, Kodër Kamëz, 1029 Tirana, Albania; (G.M.); (A.M.); (M.S.); (E.O.); (L.T.)
| | - Albana Munga
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Agricultural University of Tirana, Kodër Kamëz, 1029 Tirana, Albania; (G.M.); (A.M.); (M.S.); (E.O.); (L.T.)
| | - Laura Menchetti
- School of Biosciences and Veterinary Medicine, University of Camerino, Via Circonvallazione 93/95, 62024 Matelica, Italy;
| | - Livio Galosi
- School of Biosciences and Veterinary Medicine, University of Camerino, Via Circonvallazione 93/95, 62024 Matelica, Italy;
| | - Giacomo Rossi
- School of Biosciences and Veterinary Medicine, University of Camerino, Via Circonvallazione 93/95, 62024 Matelica, Italy;
| | - Olimpia Barbato
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Via San Costanzo 4, 06126 Perugia, Italy;
| | - Grazia Pastorelli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Milan, Via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy; (G.B.); (G.P.); (S.A.); (V.S.); (F.R.); (A.Q.); (G.C.)
| | - Stella Agradi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Milan, Via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy; (G.B.); (G.P.); (S.A.); (V.S.); (F.R.); (A.Q.); (G.C.)
| | - Valentina Serra
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Milan, Via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy; (G.B.); (G.P.); (S.A.); (V.S.); (F.R.); (A.Q.); (G.C.)
| | - Majlind Sulçe
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Agricultural University of Tirana, Kodër Kamëz, 1029 Tirana, Albania; (G.M.); (A.M.); (M.S.); (E.O.); (L.T.)
| | - Enkeleda Ozuni
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Agricultural University of Tirana, Kodër Kamëz, 1029 Tirana, Albania; (G.M.); (A.M.); (M.S.); (E.O.); (L.T.)
| | - Luigj Turmalaj
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Agricultural University of Tirana, Kodër Kamëz, 1029 Tirana, Albania; (G.M.); (A.M.); (M.S.); (E.O.); (L.T.)
| | - Marta Castrica
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, Agripolis, Viale dell’Università 16, 35020 Legnaro, Italy;
| | | | - Federica Riva
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Milan, Via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy; (G.B.); (G.P.); (S.A.); (V.S.); (F.R.); (A.Q.); (G.C.)
| | - Bernard Fioretti
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Perugia, Via dell’Elce di Sotto 8, 06123 Perugia, Italy;
| | - Alda Quattrone
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Milan, Via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy; (G.B.); (G.P.); (S.A.); (V.S.); (F.R.); (A.Q.); (G.C.)
| | - Maria Laura Marongiu
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Via Vienna 2, 07100 Sassari, Italy;
| | - Giulio Curone
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Milan, Via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy; (G.B.); (G.P.); (S.A.); (V.S.); (F.R.); (A.Q.); (G.C.)
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Huang Z, Ye Y, Xu A, Li Z. Effects of Astragalus membranaceus Polysaccharides on Growth Performance, Physiological and Biochemical Parameters, and Expression of Genes Related to Lipid Metabolism of Spotted Sea Bass, Lateolabrax maculatus. AQUACULTURE NUTRITION 2023; 2023:6191330. [PMID: 37303608 PMCID: PMC10256447 DOI: 10.1155/2023/6191330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
This experiment investigated the effects of Astragalus membranaceus polysaccharides (AMP) on growth, physiological and biochemical parameters, and the expression of lipid metabolism-related genes in spotted sea bass, Lateolabrax maculatus. A total of 450 spotted sea bass (10.44 ± 0.09 g) were divided into six groups and were given diets with different levels of AMP (0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8, and 1.0 g/kg) for 28 days, respectively. Results indicated that dietary intake of AMP significantly improved fish weight gain, specific growth rate, feed conversion, and trypsin activity. Meanwhile, fish fed with AMP manifested significantly higher serum total antioxidant capacity and activity of hepatic superoxide dismutase, catalase, and lysozyme. Lower triglyceride and total cholesterol were noted in fish fed with AMP (P < 0.05). Moreover, hepatic ACC1 and ACC2 were downregulated by dietary intake of AMP, and PPAR-α, CPT1, and HSL were upregulated accordingly (P < 0.05). Parameters with significant difference were analyzed by quadratic regression analysis, and results showed that 0.6881 g/kg of AMP is the optimal dosage for spotted sea bass in size (10.44 ± 0.09 g). In conclusion, dietary intake of AMP can improve the growth, physiological status, and lipid metabolism of spotted sea bass, thereby indicating its promise as a potential dietary supplement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhangfan Huang
- Fisheries College, Jimei University, Xiamen, China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Fishery Resources and Eco-Environment, Xiamen, China
| | - Youling Ye
- Fisheries College, Jimei University, Xiamen, China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Fishery Resources and Eco-Environment, Xiamen, China
| | - Anle Xu
- Fisheries College, Jimei University, Xiamen, China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Fishery Resources and Eco-Environment, Xiamen, China
| | - Zhongbao Li
- Fisheries College, Jimei University, Xiamen, China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Fishery Resources and Eco-Environment, Xiamen, China
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Jiang SJ, Xiao X, Li J, Mu Y. Lycium barbarum polysaccharide-glycoprotein ameliorates ionizing radiation-induced epithelial injury by regulating oxidative stress and ferroptosis via the Nrf2 pathway. Free Radic Biol Med 2023; 204:84-94. [PMID: 37119863 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2023.04.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 04/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
Abstract
Radiation-induced oral mucositis (RIOM) is considered to be the most common acute side effect of radiation therapy and occurs during intentional or accidental radiation exposure. Antioxidant synthesis agents have been reported to protect against or alleviate the development of mucositis, but the resulting side effects of chemical synthesis agents limit their use in clinical practice. Lycium barbarum polysaccharide-glycoprotein (LBP), a polysaccharide extract of the Lycium barbarum fruit, has superior antioxidant capacity and biosafety and is a potential option for radiation prevention and treatment. Here, we aimed to investigate whether LBP conferred radioprotection against ionizing radiation-induced oral mucosal damage. We found that LBP exerted radioprotective effects in irradiated HaCaT cells, improving cell viability, stabilizing mitochondrial membrane potential, and decreasing cell death. LBP pretreatment reduced oxidative stress and ferroptosis in radioactivity-damaged cells by activating the transcription factor Nrf2 and promoting its downstream targets, such as HO-1, NQO1, SLC7A11, and FTH1. Knockdown of Nrf2 eliminated the protective effects of LBP, implying the essential role of Nrf2 in LBP activity. Additionally, the topical application of LBP thermosensitive hydrogel on rat mucosa resulted in a significant decrease in ulcer size in the irradiated group, suggesting that LBP oral mucoadhesive gel may be a potential tool for the treatment of irradiation. In conclusion, we demonstrated that LBP attenuates ionizing radiation-induced oral mucosa injury by reducing oxidative stress and inhibiting ferroptosis via the Nrf2 signaling pathway. LBP may be a promising medical countermeasure against RIOM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si-Jing Jiang
- Stomatology Department, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 611731, China; Stomatology Department, Chengdu Shuangliu Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610212, China
| | - Xun Xiao
- Stomatology Department, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 611731, China
| | - Jing Li
- Stomatology Department, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 611731, China
| | - Yangdong Mu
- Stomatology Department, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 611731, China.
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Chen Y, Zhang B, Wang B, Zhang M, Fan W, Li W. Effects of dietary arginine supplementation on production performance, serum biochemicals, antioxidant capacity, and immunity of laying Wulong geese. Poult Sci 2023; 102:102727. [PMID: 37148571 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2023.102727] [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: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023] Open
Abstract
This study investigated the effects of dietary arginine supplementation on the production performance, serum biochemicals, antioxidant capacity, and immunity of laying Wulong geese. A total of 150 Wulong geese (34-wk old) with similar body weights were randomly divided into 6 groups with 5 replicates and 5 geese each (1 male and 4 female). The geese in the control group were fed a corn-rapeseed meal basal diet, and the geese in the treatment groups were fed the basal diet supplemented with 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, and 0.5% arginine. The experiment lasted for 17 wk. Our results showed that dietary arginine increased the egg production rate (LR) and average egg weight (AEW) of geese in a quadratic manner (P < 0.05). Dietary arginine had a quadratic effect on the contents of total protein (TP) and triglyceride (TG) (P < 0.05) in the serum. Dietary arginine quadratically decreased the content of malondialdehyde (MDA) and increased the activity of total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) (P < 0.05). Dietary arginine supplementation linearly and quadratically increased the contents of immunoglobulin A (IgA) and immunoglobulin G (IgG), and linearly increased the content of nitric oxide (NO) (P < 0.05). In conclusion, dietary arginine supplementation can significantly improve the production performance, serum biochemicals, antioxidant capacity, and immunity of laying Wulong geese. Therefore, 0.3% arginine (actual content: 1.02%) is recommended in the diet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China
| | - Beibei Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China
| | - Baowei Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China
| | - Mingai Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China
| | - Wenlei Fan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China
| | - Wenli Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China.
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Lycium Genus Polysaccharide: An Overview of its Extraction, Structures, Pharmacological Activities and Biological Applications. SEPARATIONS 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/separations9080197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Polysaccharide is considered to be the main active ingredient of the genus Lycium L., which is taken from the dried fruit of the famous Chinese herbal medicine and precious tonic known as wolfberry. Traditional uses include nourishing the liver and kidney and improving eyesight, with widespread use in the clinical practice of traditional Chinese medicine. Many studies have focused on the isolation and identification of the genus Lycium L. polysaccharide and its biological activities. However, the variety of raw materials and the mechanisms of polysaccharides differ. After extraction, the structure and biological activity of the obtained polysaccharides also differ. To date, approximately 58 kinds of polysaccharides have been isolated and purified from the Lycium genus, including water-soluble polysaccharides; homogeneous polysaccharides; pectin polysaccharides; acidic heteropolysaccharides; and arabinogalactans, which are composed of arabinose, glucosamine, galactose, glucose, xylose, mannose, fructose, ribose, galacturonic acid, and glucuronic acid. Pharmacological studies have shown that LBPs exhibit a variety of important biological activities, such as protection of nerves; promotion of reproduction; and anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, hypoglycemic, and eyesight-improving activities. The aim this paper is to summarize previous and current references to the isolation process, structural characteristics, and biological activities of the genus Lycium L. polysaccharide. This review will provide a useful reference for further research and application of the genus Lycium L. polysaccharide in the field of functional food and medicine.
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Ni J, Au M, Kong H, Wang X, Wen C. Lycium barbarum polysaccharides in ageing and its potential use for prevention and treatment of osteoarthritis: a systematic review. BMC Complement Med Ther 2021; 21:212. [PMID: 34404395 PMCID: PMC8371808 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-021-03385-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lycium barbarum polysaccharide (LBP), the most abundant functional component of wolfberry, is considered a potent antioxidant and an anti-ageing substance. This review aims to outline the hallmarks of ageing in the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis (OA), followed by the current understanding of the senolytic effect of LBP and its potential use in the prevention and treatment of OA. This will be discussed through the lens of molecular biology and herbal medicine. METHODS A literature search was performed from inception to March 2020 using following keywords: "Lycium barbarum polysaccharide", "DNA damage", antioxidant, anti-apoptosis, anti-inflammation, anti-ageing, osteoarthritis, chondrocytes, fibroblasts, osteoblasts, osteoclasts, and "bone mesenchymal stem cell". The initial search yielded 2287 papers, from which 35 studies were selected for final analysis after screening for topic relevancy by the authors. RESULTS In literature different in vitro and in vivo ageing models are used to demonstrate LBP's ability to reduce oxidative stress, restore mitochondrial function, mitigate DNA damage, and prevent cellular senescence. All the evidence hints that LBP theoretically attenuates senescent cell accumulation and suppresses the senescence-associated secretory phenotype as observed by the reduction in pro-inflammatory cytokines, like interleukin-1beta, and matrix-degrading enzymes, such as MMP-1 and MMP-13. However, there remains a lack of evidence on the disease-modifying effect of LBP in OA, although its chondroprotective, osteoprotective and anti-inflammatory effects were reported. CONCLUSION Our findings strongly support further investigations into the senolytic effect of LBP in the context of age-related OA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junguo Ni
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Manting Au
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Hangkin Kong
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Xinluan Wang
- Centre for Translational Medical Research and Development, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Science, Shen Zhen, China
| | - Chunyi Wen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong.
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Wang TQ, Zhang X, Yang J. Dynamic Protective Effect of Chinese Herbal Prescription, Yiqi Jiedu Decoction, on Testis in Mice with Acute Radiation Injury. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2021; 2021:6644093. [PMID: 34122603 PMCID: PMC8189801 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6644093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Revised: 03/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE A Chinese herbal prescription, Yiqi Jiedu (YQJD) decoction, is used for injuries caused by radiotherapy. This study aimed to investigate the dynamic protective effects of YQJD decoction in mice on radiation damage at different time points of the testis. METHODS The 200 male Balb/c mice were randomly divided into 5 groups (blank, model, Anduolin, low-dose YQJD, and high-dose YQJD groups). Blank and model groups were all given stomach deionized water. Anduolin group and high and low dose of Chinese herb groups were treated with Chinese material medical decoction compound for 2 weeks before being irradiated. Except for the blank group, other groups were given whole-body one-time irradiation of 5.5 Gy 60Co gamma rays. Histopathology examination of testes was conducted on the 1st, 7th, 21st, and 35th day after irradiation, respectively. Indexes of sperm motility rate, sperm count, serum levels of testosterone (T), estradiol (E2), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH) were also measured correspondingly. RESULT Compared to 1 day and 7 days after irradiation, most of the indexes, including testis index, sperm motility, and count, were decreased on the 21st and 35th day in all irradiated groups. However, compared with the model group, the indexes to assess sperm quality and the morphological structures of testis in low-dose and high-dose YQJD groups were significantly recovered on the 21st and 35th days. Additionally, reproductive hormones, including testosterone and estradiol, were recovered more in low-dose and high-dose YQJD groups on the 21st and 35th days. CONCLUSION The YQJD decoction is able to accelerate the recovery of sperm indexes, testosterone, and estradiol levels of sex hormones in mice after irradiation and demonstrated good protective effects on the testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian-Qi Wang
- Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Guangwai Hospital, Xicheng District, Beijing, China
| | - Jia Yang
- Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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Zheng Y, Pang X, Zhu X, Meng Z, Chen X, Zhang J, Ding Q, Li Q, Dou G, Ma B. Lycium barbarum mitigates radiation injury via regulation of the immune function, gut microbiota, and related metabolites. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 139:111654. [PMID: 33957563 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.111654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous studies have suggested that Lycium barbarum (L. barbarum) has a radioprotective function, although more in-depth investigation is still required. We investigated the radioprotective efficacy of extract of the fruits of L. barbarum (LBE) and its radioprotective mechanisms. Mice were exposed to 8.5 Gy, 5.5 Gy, or 6.0 Gy total body irradiation (TBI), and the survival rate, lymphocyte percentage, amount of cytokines, and viability of the irradiated cells, as well as the gut microbiome and fecal metabolomics were studied. LBE enhanced the survival of the mice exposed to 8.5 Gy γ-ray TBI or 5.5 Gy X-ray TBI. After 6.0 Gy γ-ray TBI, LBE exhibited good immunomodulatory properties, mainly characterized by the accelerated recovery of lymphocyte percentages, and the enhanced expression of immune-related cytokines. LBE reconstituted the gut microbiota of irradiated mice, increased the relative abundance of potentially beneficial genera (e.g., Turicibacter, Akkermansia), and decreased the relative abundance of potentially harmful bacterial genera (e.g., Rikenellaceae_RC9_gut_group). Beneficial regulatory effects of LBE on the host metabolites were also noted, and the major upregulated metabolites induced by LBE, such as Tetrahydrofolic acid and N-ornithyl-L-taurine, were positively correlated with the immune factor interleukin (IL)-6. In vitro, LBE also increased the vitality of rat small intestinal epithelial cells (IEC-6) after 4.0 Gy γ-ray irradiation and promoted the growth of Akkermansia muciniphila. These results confirmed a radioprotective function of LBE and indicated that the radioprotective mechanism may be due to immunomodulation and the synergistically modulating effect on the gut microbiota and related metabolites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Zheng
- Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China; Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xu Pang
- China Pharmaceutical Culture Collection, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoxia Zhu
- Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Zhiyun Meng
- Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaojuan Chen
- Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Qianzhi Ding
- Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Qi Li
- Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Guifang Dou
- Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Baiping Ma
- Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China; Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China.
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11
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Zhang X, Chen X, Wang L, He C, Shi Z, Fu Q, Xu W, Zhang S, Hu S. Review of the Efficacy and Mechanisms of Traditional Chinese Medicines as a Therapeutic Option for Ionizing Radiation Induced Damage. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:617559. [PMID: 33658941 PMCID: PMC7917257 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.617559] [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: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Ionizing radiation damage refers to acute, delayed, or chronic tissue damage associated with ionizing radiation. Specific or effective therapeutic options for systemic injuries induced by ionizing radiation have not been developed. Studies have shown that Chinese herbal Medicine or Chinese Herbal Prescription exhibit preventive properties against radiation damage. These medicines inhibit tissue injuries and promote repair with very minimal side effects. This study reviews traditional Chinese herbal medicines and prescriptions with radiation protective effects as well as their mechanisms of action. The information obtained will guide the development of alternative radioprotectants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaomeng Zhang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoying Chen
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Lei Wang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Changhao He
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Zhongyu Shi
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Qian Fu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Wenhui Xu
- Beijing Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Shujing Zhang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Sumin Hu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
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Immunomodulatory Effects of Lycium barbarum Polysaccharide Extract and Its Uptake Behaviors at the Cellular Level. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25061351. [PMID: 32188121 PMCID: PMC7145302 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25061351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2020] [Revised: 03/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Lycium barbarum L. is a widely used functional food and medicinal herb in Asian countries. L. barbarium polysaccharides (LBP) are considered as one of the major medicinal components of L. barbarium fruit and exhibits a wide range of biological activities. Here, we investigated the immunomodulatory effects of LBP and its uptake behaviors at the cellular level. LBP was prepared by water extraction and ethanol precipitation, and divided into two fractions based on the molecular weight distribution by ultrafiltration (LBP > 10 kDa and LBP < 10 kDa). The physicochemical properties of LBP and LBP fractions were well characterized. The LBP > 10 kDa fraction greatly enhanced the viability of macrophages RAW264.7 cells and induced cell polarization, but had weak effects to other tested tumor cell lines and normal cell line. This fraction could regulate the production of NO, TNF-α, IL-6 and ROS in RAW264.7 cells, suggesting both pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory effects. The dye-labeled LBP could be internalized into all tested cell lines and accumulated in lysosomes. The internalization of LBP in RAW264.7 cells is mainly through the clathrin-mediated endocytosis pathway. The Caco-2 intestinal transport experiment demonstrated that the dye labeled LBP could be transported through the Caco-2 cell monolayer (mimic intestinal epithelium) through clathrin-mediated endocytosis. These results demonstrate the immunomodulatory effects of LBP and its effective uptake by macrophages and intestine.
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Zhang K, Fu L, An Q, Hu W, Liu J, Tang X, Ding Y, Lu W, Liang X, Shang X, Gu Y. Effects of Qilin pills on spermatogenesis, reproductive hormones, oxidative stress, and the TSSK2 gene in a rat model of oligoasthenospermia. BMC Complement Med Ther 2020; 20:42. [PMID: 32046715 PMCID: PMC7076898 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-019-2799-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2019] [Accepted: 12/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Qilin pills (QLPs), a classic Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) formula for treating male infertility, effectively improve semen quality in clinical trials. This study was designed to evaluate the effects of QLPs on spermatogenesis, reproductive hormones, oxidative stress, and the testis-specific serinekinase-2 (TSSK2) gene in a rat model of oligoasthenospermia. METHODS Forty adult male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into four groups. The rat model with oligoasthenospermia was generated by intragastric administration of tripterygium glycosides (TGs) once daily for 4 weeks. Then, two treatment groups were given different doses (1.62 g/kg and 3.24 g/kg) of QLPs once daily for 60 days. Sperm parameters, testicular histology and reproductive hormone measurements, oxidative stress tests, and TSSK2 expression tests were carried out. RESULTS QLPs effectively improved semen parameters and testicular histology; restored the levels of FSH, LH, PRL, fT, and SHBG; reduced the levels of oxidative stress products (ROS and MDA); increased testicular SOD activity; and restored the expression of spermatogenesis-related gene TSSK2. CONCLUSION QLPs have a therapeutic effect on a rat model of oligoasthenospermia, and this effect is manifested as improvement of semen quality and testis histology, gonadal axis stability, decreased oxidative stress, and the regulation of testis-specific spermatogenesis-related gene TSSK2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaishu Zhang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266000 China
| | - Longlong Fu
- National Health and Family Planning Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Health, Department of Male Clinical Research, National Research Institute for Family Planning & WHO Collaborating Center for Research in Human Reproduction, Beijing, 100081 China
| | - Qi An
- National Health and Family Planning Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Health, Department of Male Clinical Research, National Research Institute for Family Planning & WHO Collaborating Center for Research in Human Reproduction, Beijing, 100081 China
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730 China
| | - Weihong Hu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266000 China
| | - Jianxin Liu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266000 China
| | - Xiuming Tang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266000 China
| | - Yu Ding
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266000 China
| | - Wenhong Lu
- National Health and Family Planning Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Health, Department of Male Clinical Research, National Research Institute for Family Planning & WHO Collaborating Center for Research in Human Reproduction, Beijing, 100081 China
| | - Xiaowei Liang
- National Health and Family Planning Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Health, Department of Male Clinical Research, National Research Institute for Family Planning & WHO Collaborating Center for Research in Human Reproduction, Beijing, 100081 China
| | - Xuejun Shang
- Department of Andrology, Jinling Hospital Affiliated to Southern Medical University, Nanjing, 210002 China
| | - Yiqun Gu
- National Health and Family Planning Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Health, Department of Male Clinical Research, National Research Institute for Family Planning & WHO Collaborating Center for Research in Human Reproduction, Beijing, 100081 China
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730 China
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Celastrol Alleviates Gamma Irradiation-Induced Damage by Modulating Diverse Inflammatory Mediators. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21031084. [PMID: 32041250 PMCID: PMC7036880 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21031084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2019] [Revised: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study aimed to explore the possible radioprotective effects of celastrol and relevant molecular mechanisms in an in vitro cell and in vivo mouse models exposed to gamma radiation. Human keratinocytes (HaCaT) and foreskin fibroblast (BJ) cells were exposed to gamma radiation of 20 Gy, followed by treatment with celastrol for 24 h. Cell viability, reactive oxygen species (ROS), nitric oxide (NO) and glutathione (GSH) production, lipid peroxidation, DNA damage, inflammatory cytokine levels, and NF-κB pathway activation were examined. The survival rate, levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) in blood, and p65 and phospho-p65 expression were also evaluated in mice after exposure to gamma radiation and celastrol treatment. The gamma irradiation of HaCaT cells induced decreased cell viability, but treatment with celastrol significantly blocked this cytotoxicity. Gamma irradiation also increased free radical production (e.g., ROS and NO), decreased the level of GSH, and enhanced oxidative DNA damage and lipid peroxidation in cells, which were effectively reversed by celastrol treatment. Moreover, inflammatory responses induced by gamma irradiation, as demonstrated by increased levels of IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β, were also blocked by celastrol. The increased activity of NF-κB DNA binding following gamma radiation was significantly attenuated after celastrol treatment. In the irradiated mice, treatment with celastrol significantly improved overall survival rate, reduced the excessive inflammatory responses, and decreased NF-κB activity. As a NF-κB pathway blocker and antioxidant, celastrol may represent a promising pharmacological agent with protective effects against gamma irradiation-induced injury.
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Lei X, Huo P, Wang Y, Xie Y, Shi Q, Tu H, Yao J, Mo Z, Zhang S. Lycium barbarum Polysaccharides Improve Testicular Spermatogenic Function in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:164. [PMID: 32362869 PMCID: PMC7181356 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.00164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study was to investigate the protective effects of Lycium barbarum polysaccharides (LBP) on testicular spermatogenic function in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. Compared to the control group, blood glucose levels were significantly increased and the insulin resistance was markedly aggravated in STZ-induced diabetic rats. Further, the weight of testis and epididymis and the sperm number and motility were decreased in diabetic rats. Pathological changes were also observed in the spermatogenic tubules, along with a decreased number of spermatogenic cells, downregulated proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) expression, and increased cell apoptosis in the testes. Compared to the saline-treated diabetic rat group, metformin and LBP treatment significantly decreased the level of blood glucose and improved insulin resistance and testicular function. After treatment with metformin and LBP, the pathological changes in the spermatogenic tubules improved significantly, with an increase in the number of spermatogenic cells, upregulation of PCNA, and suppression of apoptosis in the testes. The expressions of sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) and hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha (HIF-1α) in diabetic testes were also upregulated by metformin or LBP treatment. In summary, LBP exerted protective effects by increasing cell proliferation, inhibiting cell apoptosis, and regulating SIRT1/HIF-1α expression in the testes of diabetic rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaocan Lei
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Clinical Anatomy & Reproductive Medicine Application Institute, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Peng Huo
- School of Public and Health, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, China
| | - Yaohui Wang
- School of Basic Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Yuanjie Xie
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Clinical Anatomy & Reproductive Medicine Application Institute, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Qingxiang Shi
- School of Basic Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Haoyan Tu
- Department of Reproductive Medical Center, The Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, China
| | - Jun Yao
- Department of Reproductive Medical Center, The Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, China
| | - Zhongcheng Mo
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Clinical Anatomy & Reproductive Medicine Application Institute, University of South China, Hengyang, China
- *Correspondence: Zhongcheng Mo
| | - Shun Zhang
- Department of Reproductive Medical Center, The Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, China
- Shun Zhang
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16
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Chen Y, Bi Q, Zhu Z, Zhang S, Xu J, Dou X, Mao W. Lycium barbarum polysaccharides exert an antioxidative effect on rat chondrocytes by activating the nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 signaling pathway. Arch Med Sci 2020; 16:964-973. [PMID: 32542100 PMCID: PMC7286333 DOI: 10.5114/aoms.2018.77036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2017] [Accepted: 08/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Oxidative stress is the main cause of osteoarthritis (OA). Lycium barbarum polysaccharides (LBP) have antioxidant properties. Thus, the potential effect of LBP on H2O2-stimulated chondrocytes was examined. MATERIAL AND METHODS The cell viability was detected by CCK-8. The reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and apoptosis rates were determined by flow cytometric analysis. The DNA damage was detected by comet assay. Real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and Western blot assays were performed to examine the expression of histone 2A family member X (γH2AX), checkpoint kinase 1 (Chk1), poly ADP-ribose polymerase (PARP), cysteinyl aspartate specific proteinase (caspase)-3/8/9, and nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2) and its antioxidant-response element (ARE) dependent factors including heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and quinine oxidoreductase-1 (NQO-1). RESULTS Compared to the H2O2 group, LBP inhibited the ROS production and DNA damage caused by H2O2 (p < 0.05), respectively. LBP inhibited the mRNA and protein expressions of γH2AX and Chk1 (p < 0.05). Meanwhile, LBP significantly decreased apoptosis (p < 0.05). And LBP inhibited the expression levels of PARP and Caspase-3/8/9 (p < 0.05). Moreover, LBP increased the expression of Nrf2, HO-1and NQO-1 (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the depletion of Nrf2 that mediated by RNA interference reversed the apoptosis and DNA damage inhibition effect of LBP (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS LBP protected chondrocytes through inhibiting DNA damage and apoptosis caused by H2O2, in which the Nrf2/ARE signaling pathway played a positive role. It provided an inspiration for clinical application - developing LBP as a therapeutic agent and Nrf2 as a promising candidate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, People’s Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qing Bi
- Department of Orthopedics, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, People’s Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ziguan Zhu
- Department of Hand Surgery and Reconstruction Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, People’s Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shuijun Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, People’s Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jifeng Xu
- Department of Orthopedics, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, People’s Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaofan Dou
- Department of Orthopedics, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, People’s Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Weihuan Mao
- Department of Orthopedics, The Fifth People’s Hospital of Yuhang District, Hangzhou, China
- Corresponding author: Weihuan Mao, Department of Orthopedics, The Fifth People’s, Hospital of 60 Healthcare Road, Linping St, Yuhang District, Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province, 311100 Hangzhou, China, Phone: +86 0571 86222034, E-mail:
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A Chinese herbal prescription Yiqi Jiedu decoction attenuates irradiation induced testis injury in mice. Biomed Pharmacother 2019; 123:109804. [PMID: 31884340 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2019.109804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2019] [Revised: 11/27/2019] [Accepted: 12/15/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Yiqi Jiedu (YQJD) decoction is a Chinese herbal prescription, based on an experienced expert of traditional Chinese medicine. It is used for the injuries caused by radiotherapy. The current study was designed to investigate the protective effects of YQJD decoction on radiation damage of testis in mice, and to explore its potential mechanisms. METHODS Mice were randomly divided into blank control group (Ctrl), model group (IR), positive drug group (IRA), and YQJD decoction group (IRY). After 10-day period intervention, they were whole-body irradiated with 2 Gy 60Co γ-rays and sacrificed on 7th day after irradiation. The indicators including the index and histopathology examination of testis, spermatogenic cell types and apoptosis, and the expression of TLR5, MyD88, NF-κB, TNF-α, IL-6 and Bcl-2 in testis. RESULTS The testis atrophied significantly on 7th day of exposure to radiation, while YQJD decoction promoted the recovery of testis index and structure. Moreover, spermatogenic cell types and apoptosis had significant changes after irradiation. YQJD decoction protected the testicular function of spermatogenesis, as while as reduced the apoptosis rate of spermatogenic cells. In addition, RT-PCR and immunohistochemical analysis showed that YQJD decoction up-regulated the expression of TLR5 in testis. The levels of TLR5's downstream factors were also up-regulated in YQJD decoction group, which indicated that TLR5 signaling pathway might play an important role in the protective effects of YQJD decoction. CONCLUSIONS The results showed that YQJD decoction attenuated irradiation induced testis injury in mice. Its potential mechanism was related to TLR5 signaling pathway.
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Yang Q, Xing Y, Qiao C, Liu W, Jiang H, Fu Q, Zhou Y, Yang B, Zhang Z, Chen R. Semen quality improvement in boars fed with supplemental wolfberry (Lycium barbarum). Anim Sci J 2019; 90:1517-1522. [PMID: 31593376 DOI: 10.1111/asj.13295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2019] [Revised: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 09/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Wolfberry is well known for its health benefits in Asian countries. This study consisted of two experiments. In Experiment 1, nine boars were provided 40 g dried wolfberry per 100 kg body weight per day in addition to regular feed for 160 days (divided into 40 days phases: I, II, III, and IV) under step-down air temperature conditions. Controls (n = 9) were fed regular feed only. Significant (p < .05 or p < .01) or slight improvements in sperm progressive motility, total abnormality rate, sperm concentration, and total sperm per ejaculate were observed in the wolfberry group during phases II and III. No differences were observed in semen volume. After combining the data from phases II ~ IV, significant improvements were detected in all aforementioned traits (p < .05 or p < .01), except semen volume. In Experiment 2, the wolfberry group (n = 5) was fed wolfberry for 90 days and exhibited significantly reduced head, tail, and total abnormality rates (p < .05 or p < .01) in both fresh semen and semen stored for 72 hr at 17°C compared to the control group (n = 5). SOD activity also significantly increased in this group of boars. Collectively, the findings of this study suggest that wolfberry has a positive effect on boar semen quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Pig Genetic Improvement and Production Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, China
| | - Yuyun Xing
- State Key Laboratory of Pig Genetic Improvement and Production Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, China
| | - Chuanmin Qiao
- State Key Laboratory of Pig Genetic Improvement and Production Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, China
| | - Weiwei Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Pig Genetic Improvement and Production Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, China
| | - Haoyun Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Pig Genetic Improvement and Production Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, China
| | - Qiang Fu
- Wucheng Pig Farm of Zhangshu City, Zhangshu, China
| | - Yu Zhou
- Wucheng Pig Farm of Zhangshu City, Zhangshu, China
| | - Bin Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Pig Genetic Improvement and Production Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, China
| | - Zhiyan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Pig Genetic Improvement and Production Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, China
| | - Rongrong Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Pig Genetic Improvement and Production Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, China.,College of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, China
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Ren F, Fang Q, Feng T, Li Y, Wang Y, Zhu H, Hu J. Lycium barbarum and Laminaria japonica polysaccharides improve Cashmere goat sperm quality and fertility rate after cryopreservation. Theriogenology 2019; 129:29-36. [PMID: 30797137 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2018] [Revised: 01/25/2019] [Accepted: 02/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Cashmere goat is known for the highest cashmere yield and best fiber quality. Here, the effects of Lycium barbarum polysaccharide (LBP) and Laminaria japonica polysaccharide (LJP) on goat sperm quality were investigated. Results showed that the sperm motility, mitochondrial activity, and membrane and acrosome integrity were significantly higher with 4.0 mg/mL LBP and 1.0 mg/mL LJP supplementations than in the control (P < 0.05), respectively. Higher SOD, CAT, and GSH-Px levels were observed in 4.0 mg/mL LBP and 1.0 mg/mL LJP groups than control group (P < 0.05). Sperm characteristics with 2.0 + 1.0 mg/mL LBP + LJP supplementation significantly improved compared to that with other treatments (P < 0.05). Compared to the control treatment, the non-return rate (NRR) were higher in the LBP + LJP (2.0 + 1.0 mg/mL) group (P < 0.05). These results suggest that LBP and LJP enhance cryo-protective effects on goat spermatozoa, and that 2.0 + 1.0 mg/mL LBP + LJP addition to the extender during cryopreservation is beneficial to the Cashmere goat breeding industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fa Ren
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China.
| | - Qian Fang
- School of Life Science and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China.
| | - Tianyu Feng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China.
| | - Yu Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China.
| | - Yanhua Wang
- Center of Lhasa Animal Disease Prevention and Control, Lhasa, Tibet, 850000, China.
| | - Haijing Zhu
- Center of Northern Shaanxi White Cashmere Goats Engineering Research, Yulin University, Yulin, Shaanxi, 719000, China.
| | - Jianhong Hu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China.
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Huang AC, Wu JM, Chang YH, Dubey NK, Chiu AW, Yeh CY, Tsai TH, Yeh KY. Neuronal nitric oxide synthase activity mediates Lycium barbarum polysaccharides-enhanced sexual performance without stimulating noncontact erection in rats. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2019; 236:1293-1301. [PMID: 30539267 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-018-5141-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2018] [Accepted: 11/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Lycium barbarum polysaccharide (LBP) is known to promote reproductive functions. However, its role in noncontact erection (NCE) of penis initiated by brain regions including medial preoptic area (MPOA) and paraventricular nucleus (PVN) regions responsible for sexual behavior has not been investigated. OBJECTIVES Therefore, this study initially investigated the effects of LBP on male sexual function, and subsequently, the mechanistic insight was investigated through assessing the expression of neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) in the MPOA and PVN. METHODS The adult male rats were treated with 100 mg/kg of LBP or vehicle by oral gavage. Before and after 14 days of treatment, copulatory behavior and noncontact erection (NCE) were recorded. After the last behavioral test, the brain was isolated to measure nNOS expression in the MPOA and PVN. RESULTS Data showed that LBP treatment significantly increased both the frequencies of intromission as well as ejaculation, compared to the control group. Whereas, a reduced post-ejaculatory interval was observed compared to same group on day 0. Furthermore, the treatment led to an increased intromission ratio, inter-intromission interval, and the number of MPOA nNOS-immunoreactive cells (nNOS-ir). Additionally, a significantly positive correlation between ejaculation frequency and MPOA nNOS-ir cells was recorded. Of note, LBP treatment had no effects on NCE and PVN nNOS-ir expression. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that LBP enhances sexual behavior through increased nNOS expression in the MPOA in male rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andy C Huang
- Institute of Traditional Medicine, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Urology, Taipei City Hospital Ren-Ai Branch, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Jia-Min Wu
- Department of Physical Therapy, Hung Kuang University, No. 1018, Sec. 6, Taiwan Boulevard, Shalu District, Taichung, 43302, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Han Chang
- Department of Physical Therapy, Hung Kuang University, No. 1018, Sec. 6, Taiwan Boulevard, Shalu District, Taichung, 43302, Taiwan
| | - Navneet Kumar Dubey
- Ceramics and Biomaterials Research Group, Advanced Institute of Materials Science, Ton Duc Thang University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.,Faculty of Applied Sciences, Ton Duc Thang University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Allen W Chiu
- Institute of Traditional Medicine, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Urology, Taipei City Hospital Ren-Ai Branch, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Yu Yeh
- Department of Nursing, Ching Kuo Institute of Management and Health, Keelung, Taiwan
| | - Tung-Hu Tsai
- Institute of Traditional Medicine, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Chemical Engineering, National United University, Miaoli, Taiwan
| | - Kuei-Ying Yeh
- Department of Physical Therapy, Hung Kuang University, No. 1018, Sec. 6, Taiwan Boulevard, Shalu District, Taichung, 43302, Taiwan.
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21
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Yang F, Wei Y, Liao B, Wei G, Qin H, Pang X, Wang J. Lycium barbarum polysaccharide prevents cisplatin-induced MLTC-1 cell apoptosis and autophagy via regulating endoplasmic reticulum stress pathway. DRUG DESIGN DEVELOPMENT AND THERAPY 2018; 12:3211-3219. [PMID: 30288025 PMCID: PMC6163019 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s176316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Background Lycium barbarum polysaccharide (LBP) has been reported to contribute to the recovery of male hypogonadism and infertility. Aim The aim of current study was to investigate the underlying mechanisms of LBP on male infertility recovery. Methods Recently, it is reported that cell apoptosis mediated by endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) was distinguished from that mediated by death reporters and mitochondria pathway, which could induce cell apoptosis independently. The possible signaling mechanisms were investigated using diversified molecular biology techniques, such as flow cytometry, western blotting, and immunofluorescence. Results In this study, we found that LBP protected Leydig MLTC-1 cells against cisplatin (DDP) by regulating ERS-mediated signal pathway, which was evidenced by downregulation of phosphorylation PERK, phosphorylation of eukaryotic translation-initiation factor 2α and activating transcription factor 4. Meanwhile, LBP decreased DDP-induced MLTC-1 cell apoptosis via reducing ERS apoptosis-relative proteins caspase 3, caspase 7, and caspase 12. In addition, the result of monodansylcadaverine staining indicated that LBP significantly inhibited DDP-induced autophagosome formation in MLTC-1 cells. Moreover, immunofluorescences and Western blot assays demonstrated that LBP reversed DDP-induced LC3II and Atg5 upregulation in MLTC-1 cells. Finally, the data of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay showed that LBP markedly recovered MLTC-1 cells testosterone level even in the presence of DDP. Conclusion Thus, we suggest that LBP protected MLTC-1 cells against DDP via regulation of ERS-mediated apoptosis and autophagy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fenglian Yang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Youjiang Medical College for Nationalities, Baise, Guangxi 533000, China
| | - Yuxia Wei
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical College for Nationalities, Baise, Guangxi 533000, China,
| | - Biyun Liao
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical College for Nationalities, Baise, Guangxi 533000, China,
| | - Guijiang Wei
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical College for Nationalities, Baise, Guangxi 533000, China,
| | - Haimei Qin
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical College for Nationalities, Baise, Guangxi 533000, China,
| | - Xiaoxia Pang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical College for Nationalities, Baise, Guangxi 533000, China,
| | - Junli Wang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical College for Nationalities, Baise, Guangxi 533000, China,
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22
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Shi GJ, Zheng J, Wu J, Qiao HQ, Chang Q, Niu Y, Sun T, Li YX, Yu JQ. Protective effects of Lycium barbarum polysaccharide on male sexual dysfunction and fertility impairments by activating hypothalamic pituitary gonadal axis in streptozotocin-induced type-1 diabetic male mice. Endocr J 2017; 64:907-922. [PMID: 28794341 DOI: 10.1507/endocrj.ej16-0430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetes-associated male sexual dysfunction and fertility impairments are both common clinical complications with limited therapeutic options; hence it seriously affects the quality of life of the patients, in particular, the patients of reproductive age. Lycium barbarum polysaccharide (LBP) has long being believed to maintain and to promote reproductive functions in the traditional medical practice in China. The current study was to investigate if LBP may contribute to recovery of male sexual dysfunction and fertility impairments in diabetic individuals. The effects of LBP on sexual behaviors and histological changes of testis were studied in the type-1 diabetes male mice induced by intra-peritoneal (i.p.) injection of streptozotocin (STZ). After oral administration of LBP (10, 20 or 40 mg/kg), sildenafil citrate (SC, 5 mg/kg) or saline for 62 consecutive days, the typical abnormal changes in the sperm parameters, in relative weight of reproductive organs and in morphology of testis were observed in diabetic mice. LBP treatment of the diabetic mice considerably reversed those changes and Johnsen's testicular score, serum testosterone (T), follicular stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) level were also increased to different degrees. Moreover, our data have also shown that a marked improvement in sexual behavior and fertility level after administration of LBP (40 mg/kg) compared to the diabetic group. These results suggested that LBP can exert functional recovery of male sexual dysfunction and fertility damages induced by diabetes in male mice, which is likely to be mediated through regulating the hypothalamus- pituitary-gonadal axis endocrine activity.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Diabetes Mellitus, Experimental/blood
- Diabetes Mellitus, Experimental/complications
- Drugs, Chinese Herbal/pharmacology
- Drugs, Chinese Herbal/therapeutic use
- Follicle Stimulating Hormone/blood
- Hypothalamo-Hypophyseal System/drug effects
- Infertility, Male/blood
- Infertility, Male/drug therapy
- Infertility, Male/etiology
- Luteinizing Hormone/blood
- Male
- Mice
- Phosphodiesterase 5 Inhibitors/pharmacology
- Phosphodiesterase 5 Inhibitors/therapeutic use
- Protective Agents/pharmacology
- Protective Agents/therapeutic use
- Sexual Behavior, Animal/drug effects
- Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological/blood
- Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological/drug therapy
- Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological/etiology
- Sildenafil Citrate/pharmacology
- Sildenafil Citrate/therapeutic use
- Testis/drug effects
- Testosterone/blood
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Affiliation(s)
- Guang-Jiang Shi
- Department of Pharmacology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China
| | - Jie Zheng
- Department of Pharmacology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China
| | - Jing Wu
- Laboratory Animal Center, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China
| | - Hai-Qi Qiao
- Department of Pharmacology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China
| | - Qing Chang
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry Education, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China
| | - Yang Niu
- Key Laboratory of Hui Ethnic Medicine Modernization, Ministry of Education, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China
| | - Tao Sun
- Ningxia Key Laboratory of Craniocerebral Diseases of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China
| | - Yu-Xiang Li
- College of Nursing, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China
| | - Jian-Qiang Yu
- Department of Pharmacology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China
- Ningxia Hui Medicine Modern Engineering Research Center and Collaborative Innovation Center, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China
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23
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Xie J, Wu DT, Li WZ, Ning CG, Tang YP, Zhao J, Li SP. Effects of Polysaccharides in Lycium Barbarum
Berries from Different Regions of China on Macrophages Function and their Correlation to the Glycosidic Linkages. J Food Sci 2017; 82:2411-2420. [DOI: 10.1111/1750-3841.13813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2017] [Revised: 05/09/2017] [Accepted: 06/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jing Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Inst. of Chinese Medical Sciences; Univ. of Macau; Macao SAR China
| | - Ding-Tao Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Inst. of Chinese Medical Sciences; Univ. of Macau; Macao SAR China
| | - Wen-Zhi Li
- Infinitus (China) Co. Ltd.; Guangzhou China
| | | | - Yu-Ping Tang
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization, Jiangsu Key Laboratory for High Technology Research of TCM Formulae, and National and Local Collaborative Engineering Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization and Formulae Innovative Medicine; Nanjing Univ. of Chinese Medicine; Nanjing 210023 China
| | - Jing Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Inst. of Chinese Medical Sciences; Univ. of Macau; Macao SAR China
| | - Shao-Ping Li
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Inst. of Chinese Medical Sciences; Univ. of Macau; Macao SAR China
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24
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Zhang L, Li Q, Zheng G, Chen Y, Huang M, Zhang L, Lin X. Protective effect of Lycium barbarum polysaccharides against cadmium-induced testicular toxicity in male mice. Food Funct 2017; 8:2322-2330. [PMID: 28594424 DOI: 10.1039/c6fo01583b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The present study was performed to determine whether Lycium barbarum polysaccharides (LBPs) would protect mice against cadmium (Cd)-induced testicular toxicity. Seventy-two male mice were randomly divided into six groups with twelve mice per group. Four groups were administered orally with cadmium chloride (5.0 mg per kg body weight) for 35 days and treated in combination with LBPs (0, 10.0, 33.3 or 100 mg kg-1) from one week before exposure to Cd until the end of the experiment. The other two groups were administered orally with vehicle or LBP (100 mg kg-1) only. Pretreatment with LBP ameliorated the Cd-induced reduction in the body weights, sperm motility as well as the level of testosterone in serum. Moreover, Cd-induced increase in the abnormal sperms was reduced and effects of Cd on the levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) were reversed. Histopathological examination further confirmed that the LBPs effectively attenuated Cd-induced degeneration of seminiferous tubules. Thus, LBPs attenuated Cd-induced testicular injury by improving the activity of antioxidant enzymatic activity and lowering the oxidative stress, so it could be a potential auxiliary therapeutic agent for Cd-induced testicular toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lili Zhang
- Center of Safety Evaluation, Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, 587 Bingkang Rd, Hangzhou 310053, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China.
| | - Qin Li
- Institute of Materia Medica, Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, 182 Tianmushan Rd, Hangzhou 310013, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China.
| | - Gaoli Zheng
- Center of Safety Evaluation, Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, 587 Bingkang Rd, Hangzhou 310053, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yunxiang Chen
- Center of Safety Evaluation, Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, 587 Bingkang Rd, Hangzhou 310053, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China.
| | - Mincong Huang
- Center of Safety Evaluation, Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, 587 Bingkang Rd, Hangzhou 310053, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China.
| | - Lijiang Zhang
- Center of Safety Evaluation, Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, 587 Bingkang Rd, Hangzhou 310053, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xiaoyan Lin
- Department of Pediatrics, Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, 261 Huanshan Rd, Hangzhou 310006, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China.
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25
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Moon HW, Park JW, Lee KW, Jeong HC, Choi JB, Choi SW, Bae WJ, Cho HJ, Ha US, Hong SH, Geum JH, Hong SB, Kim SW. Administration of Goji (Lycium chinense Mill.) Extracts Improves Erectile Function in Old Aged Rat Model. World J Mens Health 2016; 35:43-50. [PMID: 28064475 PMCID: PMC5419117 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.2017.35.1.43] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2016] [Revised: 09/22/2016] [Accepted: 09/30/2016] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study investigated the effect of goji (Lycium chinense Mill.) on erectile dysfunction in old-aged rats. Materials and Methods Twenty-four 18-month-old male Sprague-Dawley rats (defined as old-aged rats) were used. Treatment groups contained eight rats each: a control group, goji extract of 150 mg/kg/day group, and goji extract of 300 mg/kg/day group. Treatment was by orogastric tube once daily for 6 weeks. After 6 weeks of treatment, testes weight, serum testosterone, superoxide dismutase, nitric oxide (NO)-cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP)-related parameters, intracavernous pressure/mean arterial pressure, and histological changes were examined. Results Treatments with goji extracts increased serum testosterone level, increased the expression of endothelial NO synthase, neuronal NO synthase, and cGMP, improved the oxidative stress marker, and decreased corporal fibrosis. Conclusions Our results indicate that goji extract may have a positive effect on erectile dysfunction via its antioxidant effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyong Woo Moon
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jung Woo Park
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kyu Won Lee
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyun Cheol Jeong
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jin Bong Choi
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sae Woong Choi
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Woong Jin Bae
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea.,Catholic Integrative Medicine Research Institute, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyuk Jin Cho
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - U Syn Ha
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sung Hoo Hong
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | | | | | - Sae Woong Kim
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea.,Catholic Integrative Medicine Research Institute, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea.
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26
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Lycium barbarum polysaccharides ameliorates renal injury and inflammatory reaction in alloxan-induced diabetic nephropathy rabbits. Life Sci 2016; 157:82-90. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2016.05.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2015] [Revised: 05/26/2016] [Accepted: 05/31/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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27
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Effects of Lycium barbarum Polysaccharides on Apoptosis, Cellular Adhesion, and Oxidative Damage in Bone Marrow Mononuclear Cells of Mice Exposed to Ionizing Radiation Injury. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2016; 2016:4147879. [PMID: 27314019 PMCID: PMC4899582 DOI: 10.1155/2016/4147879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2016] [Revised: 05/01/2016] [Accepted: 05/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Lycium barbarum has been used for more than 2500 years as a traditional herb and food in China. We investigated the effects of Lycium barbarum polysaccharides (LBP) on apoptosis, oxidative damage, and expression of adhesion molecules in bone marrow mononuclear cells (BMNC) of mice injured by ionizing radiation. Kunming mice were exposed to X-rays; then mice in the LBP groups were continuously injected with various concentrations of LBP intraperitoneally for 14 days. Mice in the control group were continuously injected with normal saline (NS) by the same route for 14 days. A normal group was set up. After 1, 7, and 14 days of treatment, mice were killed and BMNC were extracted. Cell cycle, apoptosis, and the expression of adhesion molecules CD44 and CD49d were detected by flow cytometry. The levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were identified by colorimetric analyses. LBP significantly decreased the percentage of G0/G1 phase, apoptosis, MDA level, and expression of CD44 and CD49d and distinctly increased the activity of SOD. LBP showed a protective effect on BMNC against ionizing radiation-induced apoptosis and oxidative damage and altered the expression of adhesion molecule.
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28
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Cheng J, Zhou ZW, Sheng HP, He LJ, Fan XW, He ZX, Sun T, Zhang X, Zhao RJ, Gu L, Cao C, Zhou SF. An evidence-based update on the pharmacological activities and possible molecular targets of Lycium barbarum polysaccharides. DRUG DESIGN DEVELOPMENT AND THERAPY 2014; 9:33-78. [PMID: 25552899 PMCID: PMC4277126 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s72892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Lycium barbarum berries, also named wolfberry, Fructus lycii, and Goji berries, have been used in the People’s Republic of China and other Asian countries for more than 2,000 years as a traditional medicinal herb and food supplement. L. barbarum polysaccharides (LBPs) are the primary active components of L. barbarum berries and have been reported to possess a wide array of pharmacological activities. Herein, we update our knowledge on the main pharmacological activities and possible molecular targets of LBPs. Several clinical studies in healthy subjects show that consumption of wolfberry juice improves general wellbeing and immune functions. LBPs are reported to have antioxidative and antiaging properties in different models. LBPs show antitumor activities against various types of cancer cells and inhibit tumor growth in nude mice through induction of apoptosis and cell cycle arrest. LBPs may potentiate the efficacy of lymphokine activated killer/interleukin-2 combination therapy in cancer patients. LBPs exhibit significant hypoglycemic effects and insulin-sensitizing activity by increasing glucose metabolism and insulin secretion and promoting pancreatic β-cell proliferation. They protect retinal ganglion cells in experimental models of glaucoma. LBPs protect the liver from injuries due to exposure to toxic chemicals or other insults. They also show potent immunoenhancing activities in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, LBPs protect against neuronal injury and loss induced by β-amyloid peptide, glutamate excitotoxicity, ischemic/reperfusion, and other neurotoxic insults. LBPs ameliorate the symptoms of mice with Alzheimer’s disease and enhance neurogenesis in the hippocampus and subventricular zone, improving learning and memory abilities. They reduce irradiation- or chemotherapy-induced organ toxicities. LBPs are beneficial to male reproduction by increasing the quality, quantity, and motility of sperm, improving sexual performance, and protecting the testis against toxic insults. Moreover, LBPs exhibit hypolipidemic, cardioprotective, antiviral, and antiinflammatory activities. There is increasing evidence from preclinical and clinical studies supporting the therapeutic and health-promoting effects of LBPs, but further mechanistic and clinical studies are warranted to establish the dose–response relationships and safety profiles of LBPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiang Cheng
- Department of Neurology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, People's Republic of China ; Department of Pharmaceutical Science, College of Pharmacy, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Zhi-Wei Zhou
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science, College of Pharmacy, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Hui-Ping Sheng
- Department of Infectious Diseases, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, People's Republic of China
| | - Lan-Jie He
- Department of Endocrinology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, People's Republic of China
| | - Xue-Wen Fan
- Department of Neurology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhi-Xu He
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine, Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering Research Center and Sino-US Joint Laboratory for Medical Sciences, Guiyang Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Tao Sun
- Key Laboratory of Craniocerebral Diseases of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, People's Republic of China
| | - Xueji Zhang
- Research Center for Bioengineering and Sensing Technology, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Ruan Jin Zhao
- Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Sarasota, FL, USA
| | - Ling Gu
- School of Biology and Chemistry, University of Pu'er, Pu'er, Yunnan, People's Republic of China
| | - Chuanhai Cao
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science, College of Pharmacy, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Shu-Feng Zhou
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science, College of Pharmacy, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA ; Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine, Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering Research Center and Sino-US Joint Laboratory for Medical Sciences, Guiyang Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, People's Republic of China
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29
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A Chinese herbal formula, Wuzi Yanzong Pill (五子衍宗丸), improves spermatogenesis by modulating the secretory function of Sertoli cells. Chin J Integr Med 2014; 20:194-9. [DOI: 10.1007/s11655-014-1743-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2013] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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30
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Lycium barbarum polysaccharides prevent memory and neurogenesis impairments in scopolamine-treated rats. PLoS One 2014; 9:e88076. [PMID: 24505383 PMCID: PMC3914900 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0088076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2013] [Accepted: 01/05/2014] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Lycium barbarum is used both as a food additive and as a medicinal herb in many countries, and L. barbarum polysaccharides (LBPs), a major cell component, are reported to have a wide range of beneficial effects including neuroprotection, anti-aging and anticancer properties, and immune modulation. The effects of LBPs on neuronal function, neurogenesis, and drug-induced learning and memory deficits have not been assessed. We report the therapeutic effects of LBPs on learning and memory and neurogenesis in scopolamine (SCO)-treated rats. LBPs were administered via gastric perfusion for 2 weeks before the onset of subcutaneous SCO treatment for a further 4 weeks. As expected, SCO impaired performance in novel object and object location recognition tasks, and Morris water maze. However, dual SCO- and LBP-treated rats spent significantly more time exploring the novel object or location in the recognition tasks and had significant shorter escape latency in the water maze. SCO administration led to a decrease in Ki67- or DCX-immunoreactive cells in the dentate gyrus and damage of dendritic development of the new neurons; LBP prevented these SCO-induced reductions in cell proliferation and neuroblast differentiation. LBP also protected SCO-induced loss of neuronal processes in DCX-immunoreactive neurons. Biochemical investigation indicated that LBP decreased the SCO-induced oxidative stress in hippocampus and reversed the ratio Bax/Bcl-2 that exhibited increase after SCO treatment. However, decrease of BDNF and increase of AChE induced by SCO showed no response to LBP administration. These results suggest that LBPs can prevent SCO-induced cognitive and memory deficits and reductions in cell proliferation and neuroblast differentiation. Suppression of oxidative stress and apoptosis may be involved in the above effects of LBPs that may be a promising candidate to restore memory functions and neurogenesis.
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31
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Zhang XR, Qi CH, Cheng JP, Liu G, Huang LJ, Wang ZF, Zhou WX, Zhang YX. Lycium barbarum polysaccharide LBPF4-OL may be a new Toll-like receptor 4/MD2-MAPK signaling pathway activator and inducer. Int Immunopharmacol 2014; 19:132-41. [PMID: 24462389 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2014.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2013] [Revised: 12/12/2013] [Accepted: 01/12/2014] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Recognition of the utility of the traditional Chinese medicine Lycium barbarum L. has been gradually increasing in Europe and the Americas. Many immunoregulation and antitumor effects of L. barbarum polysaccharides (LBP) have been reported, but its molecular mechanism is not yet clear. In this study, we reported that the activity of the polysaccharide LBPF4-OL, which was purified from LBP, is closely associated with the TLR4-MAPK signaling pathway. We found that LBPF4-OL can significantly induce TNF-α and IL-1β production in peritoneal macrophages isolated from wild-type (C3H/HeN) but not TLR4-deficient mice (C3H/HeJ). We also determined that the proliferation of LBPF4-OL-stimulated lymphocytes from C3H/HeJ mice is significantly weaker than that of lymphocytes from C3H/HeN mice. Furthermore, through a bio-layer interferometry assay, we found that LPS but not LBPF4-OL can directly associate with the TLR4/MD2 molecular complex. Flow cytometry analysis indicated that LBPF4-OL markedly upregulates TLR4/MD2 expression in both peritoneal macrophages and Raw264.7 cells. As its mechanism of action, LBPF4-OL increases the phosphorylation of p38-MAPK and inhibits the phosphorylation of JNK and ERK1/2, as was observed through Western blot analysis. These data suggest that the L. barbarum polysaccharide LBPF4-OL is a new Toll-like receptor 4/MD2-MAPK signaling pathway activator and inducer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-rui Zhang
- Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Chun-hui Qi
- Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Jun-ping Cheng
- Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Gang Liu
- Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Lin-juan Huang
- Key Laboratory of Resource and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, Shaanxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Biotechnology, Life Science College, Northwest University, Xi'an 710069, China
| | - Zhong-fu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Resource and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, Shaanxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Biotechnology, Life Science College, Northwest University, Xi'an 710069, China
| | - Wen-xia Zhou
- Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing 100850, China.
| | - Yong-xiang Zhang
- Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing 100850, China.
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32
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Jin M, Huang Q, Zhao K, Shang P. Biological activities and potential health benefit effects of polysaccharides isolated from Lycium barbarum L. Int J Biol Macromol 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2012.11.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 197] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
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33
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Jiang Z, Xu B, Yang M, Li Z, Zhang Y, Jiang D. Protection by hydrogen against gamma ray-induced testicular damage in rats. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol 2012; 112:186-91. [PMID: 22998562 DOI: 10.1111/bcpt.12016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2012] [Accepted: 09/10/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the possible protective role of hydrogen-rich saline solution (HRSS) and WR-2721 on the testicular damage induced by irradiation. Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups. Group I served as control group. Rats in group II were exposed to the irradiation. The animals in group III and IV were injected intraperitoneally with HRSS (5 ml/kg) and WR-2721 (200 mg/kg), respectively, 15 min. before the start of gamma irradiation. Testis weight, testis dimensions, sperm count, sperm motility, apoptosis index and biochemical assays were assessed after a 4-day initiation of irradiation. Testis weight, testis dimensions, sperm count, sperm motility in group II were significantly lower compared with those in the control group, whereas they were higher in the HRSS and WR-2721 group. Apoptosis index was significantly increased in group II. Treatment of rats with HRSS and WR-2721 significantly reduced the apoptosis index. On the other hand, irradiation markedly decreased activities of SOD. Activities of SOD were significantly improved when treated with HRSS and WR-2721. Significant increase in the MDA level was observed in group II. MDA levels of group III and IV were significantly lowered when compared with group II. HRSS also played a significant role in the recovery of serum testosterone levels. The results from this experimental study suggest that hydrogen has a possible protective effect against radiation-induced testicular damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhitao Jiang
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
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Lau BWM, Lee JCD, Li Y, Fung SMY, Sang YH, Shen J, Chang RC, So KF. Polysaccharides from wolfberry prevents corticosterone-induced inhibition of sexual behavior and increases neurogenesis. PLoS One 2012; 7:e33374. [PMID: 22523540 PMCID: PMC3327693 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0033374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2011] [Accepted: 02/13/2012] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Lycium barbarum, commonly known as wolfberry, has been used as a traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of infertility and sexual dysfunction. However, there is still a scarcity of experimental evidence to support the pro-sexual effect of wolfberry. The aim of this study is to determine the effect of Lycium barbarum polysaccharides (LBP) on male sexual behavior of rats. Here we report that oral feeding of LBP for 21 days significantly improved the male copulatory performance including increase of copulatory efficiency, increase of ejaculation frequency and shortening of ejaculation latency. Furthermore, sexual inhibition caused by chronic corticosterone was prevented by LBP. Simultaneously, corticosterone suppressed neurogenesis in subventricular zone and hippocampus in adult rats, which could be reversed by LBP. The neurogenic effect of LBP was also shown in vitro. Significant correlation was found between neurogenesis and sexual performance, suggesting that the newborn neurons are associated with reproductive successfulness. Blocking neurogenesis in male rats abolished the pro-sexual effect of LBP. Taken together, these results demonstrate the pro-sexual effect of LBP on normal and sexually-inhibited rats, and LBP may modulate sexual behavior by regulating neurogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benson Wui-Man Lau
- Department of Anatomy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, People's Republic of China
- The State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, People's Republic of China
- Research Centre of Heart, Brain, Hormone and Healthy Aging, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, People's Republic of China
| | - Jada Chia-Di Lee
- Department of Anatomy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, People's Republic of China
- The State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, People's Republic of China
- Research Centre of Heart, Brain, Hormone and Healthy Aging, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, People's Republic of China
| | - Yue Li
- Research Centre of Heart, Brain, Hormone and Healthy Aging, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, People's Republic of China
- School of Chinese Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, People's Republic of China
| | - Sophia Man-Yuk Fung
- Department of Anatomy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, People's Republic of China
| | - Yan-Hua Sang
- Department of Anatomy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiangang Shen
- Research Centre of Heart, Brain, Hormone and Healthy Aging, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, People's Republic of China
- School of Chinese Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, People's Republic of China
| | - Raymond Chuen-Chung Chang
- Department of Anatomy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, People's Republic of China
- The State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, People's Republic of China
- Research Centre of Heart, Brain, Hormone and Healthy Aging, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, People's Republic of China
- Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Anatomy, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, People's Republic of China
| | - Kwok-Fai So
- Department of Anatomy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, People's Republic of China
- The State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, People's Republic of China
- Research Centre of Heart, Brain, Hormone and Healthy Aging, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, People's Republic of China
- Joint Laboratory for Brain Function and Health (BFAH), Jinan University and The University of Hong Kong, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
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