Neuroprotective Effects of Formononetin Against NMDA-Induced Apoptosis in Cortical Neurons

Development of a Non-Target Screening and Quantitative Analysis Strategy Based on UPLC-Q-TOF/MS and UPLC-QQQ/MS to Improve the Quality Control of Wuling Capsule

Herbal medicine has been widely valued because of its remarkable efficacy and minimal side effects. The quantitative analysis of herbal medicines is essential to ensure their safety and efficacy. The simultaneous detection of multiple quality markers (Q-markers) has emerged as an important approach and trend in herbal medicine quality control. In recent years, non-targeted screening has become an effective strategy for the discovery and identification of unknown compounds. This study developed a non-targeted screening and quantitative analysis strategy to discover, identify and quantify the multiple components that truly represent the efficacy of Wuling capsule. Within this strategy, 18 types of flavonoids were tentatively discovered and identified from Wuling capsule by analyzing mass cleavage pathways, the precise molecular weights of compounds, and comparing the data with a database. Ten types of flavonoids were determined after the comparison of the standards. Additionally, following the evaluation of the regression equation, linear range, limit of detection (LOD), limit of quantitation (LOQ), precision, repeatability, and recovery of the proposed quantitative method, six flavonoids were quantified. This method successfully screened, identified, and quantified the potential active components in Wuling capsule, providing insights for improving the quality control standards in other herbal medicines.

Unveiling the neuroprotective properties of isoflavones: current evidence, molecular mechanisms and future perspectives

Neurodegenerative diseases encompass a wide range of debilitating and incurable brain disorders characterized by the progressive deterioration of the nervous system's structure and function. Isoflavones, which are naturally occurring polyphenolic phytochemicals, have been found to regulate various cellular signaling pathways associated with the nervous system. The main objective of this comprehensive review is to explore the neuroprotective effects of isoflavones, elucidate the underlying mechanisms, and assess their potential for treating neurodegenerative disorders. Relevant data regarding isoflavones and their impact on neurodegenerative diseases were gathered from multiple library databases and electronic sources, including PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science, and Science Direct. Numerous isoflavones, including genistein, daidzein, biochanin A, and formononetin, have exhibited potent neuroprotective properties against various neurodegenerative diseases. These compounds have been found to modulate neurotransmitters, which in turn contributes to their ability to protect against neurodegeneration. Both in vitro and in vivo experimental studies have provided evidence of their neuroprotection mechanisms, which involve interactions with estrogenic receptors, antioxidant effects, anti-inflammatory properties, anti-apoptotic activity, and modulation of neural plasticity. This review aims to provide current insights into the neuroprotective characteristics of isoflavones and shed light on their potential therapeutic applications in future clinical scenarios.

Unveiling the Potential of Natural Compounds: A Comprehensive Review on Adipose Thermogenesis Modulation

The process of adipocyte browning has recently emerged as a novel therapeutic target for combating obesity and obesity-related diseases. Non-shivering thermogenesis is the process of biological heat production in mammals and is primarily mediated via brown adipose tissue (BAT). The recruitment and activation of BAT can be induced through chemical drugs and nutrients, with subsequent beneficial health effects through the utilization of carbohydrates and fats to generate heat to maintain body temperature. However, since potent drugs may show adverse side effects, nutritional or natural substances could be safe and effective as potential adipocyte browning agents. This review aims to provide an extensive overview of the natural food compounds that have been shown to activate brown adipocytes in humans, animals, and in cultured cells. In addition, some key genetic and molecular targets and the mechanisms of action of these natural compounds reported to have therapeutic potential to combat obesity are discussed.

Formononetin alleviates cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury in rats by targeting the PARP-1/PARG/Iduna signaling pathway

Formononetin has been demonstrated to protect against cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury, however its mechanism has to be further researched. This study examined the effect of formononetin on cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury in rats using the PARP-1/PARG/Iduna signaling pathway. In male SD rats, a model of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury was developed. Animals were randomly assigned to one of eight groups: Sham operation, Sham operation + formononetin, MCAO, MCAO + formononetin, PARP inhibitor (PJ34) + MCAO, formononetin + PJ34 + MCAO, PARG inhibitor (Ethacridine lactate) + MCAO, and ethacridine lactate + formononetin. The neurological deficit test, TTC staining, HE staining, Nissl staining, TUNEL staining, and western blotting were utilized to assess formononetin's protective effects in MCAO rats. The data show that formononetin can effectively alleviate neurological dysfunction and pathological changes in brain tissue in rats with cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury, reduce the area of cerebral infarction and neuronal apoptosis, decrease the protein levels of PARP-1, PARG, Caspase-3, P53, and AIF in brain tissue, and increase the protein levels of Iduna and p-AKT. As a result, we concluded that formononetin improves brain ischemia-reperfusion injury in rats by modulating the PARP-1/PARG/Iduna signaling pathway.

Integrated bioinformatics and network pharmacology identifying the mechanisms and molecular targets of Guipi Decoction for treatment of comorbidity with depression and gastrointestinal disorders

BACKGROUND

Guipi decoction (GPD) not only improves gastrointestinal (GI) function, but also depressive mood. The bioinformatics study aimed to reveal potential crosstalk genes and related pathways between depression and GI disorders. A network pharmacology approach was used to explore the molecular mechanisms and potential targets of GPD for the simultaneous treatment of depression comorbid GI disorders.

METHODS

Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of major depressive disorder (MDD) were identified based on GSE98793 and GSE19738, and GI disorders-related genes were screened from the GeneCards database. Overlapping genes between MDD and GI disorders were obtained to identify potential crosstalk genes. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed to screen for hub genes, signature genes were identified by LASSO regression analysis, and single sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA) was performed to analyze immune cell infiltration. In addition, based on the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology (TCMSP) database, we screened the active ingredients and targets of GPD and identified the intersection targets of GPD with MDD and GI disorder-related genes, respectively. A "component-target" network was constructed using Cytoscape, the Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses were performed.

RESULTS

The MDD-corrected dataset contained 2619 DEGs, and a total of 109 crosstalk genes were obtained. 14 hub genes were screened, namely SOX2, CRP, ACE, LEP, SHH, CDH2, CD34, TNF, EGF, BDNF, FN1, IL10, PPARG, and KIT. These genes were identified by LASSO regression analysis for 3 signature genes, including TNF, EGF, and IL10. Gamma.delta.T.cell was significantly positively correlated with all three signature genes, while Central.memory.CD4.T.cell and Central.memory.CD8.T.cell were significantly negatively correlated with EGF and TNF. GPD contained 134 active ingredients and 248 targets, with 41 and 87 relevant targets for the treatment of depression and GI disorders, respectively. EGF, PPARG, IL10 and CRP overlap with the hub genes of the disease.

CONCLUSION

We found that GPD may regulate inflammatory and oxidative stress responses through EGF, PPARG, IL10 and CRP targets, and then be involved in the treatment of both depression and GI disorders.

Neuroprotective potential of formononetin, a naturally occurring isoflavone phytoestrogen

The increased prevalence of neurological illnesses is a burgeoning challenge to the public healthcare system and presents greater financial pressure. Formononetin, an O-methylated isoflavone, has gained a lot of attention due to its neuroprotective potential explored in several investigations. Formononetin is widely found in legumes and several types of clovers including Trifolium pratense L., Astragalus membranaceus, Sophora tomentosa, etc. Formononetin modulates various endogenous mediators to confer neuroprotection. It prevents RAGE activation that results in the inhibition of neuronal damage via downregulating the level of ROS and proinflammatory cytokines. Furthermore, formononetin also increases the expression of ADAM-10, which affects the pathology of neurodegenerative disease by lowering tau phosphorylation, maintaining synaptic plasticity, and boosting hippocampus neurogenesis. Besides these, formononetin also increases the expression of antioxidants, Nrf-2, PI3K, ApoJ, and LRP1. Whereas, reduces the expression of p65-NF-κB and proinflammatory cytokines. It also inhibits the deposition of Aβ and MAO-B activity. An inhibition of Aβ/RAGE-induced activation of MAPK and NOX governs the protection elicited by formononetin against inflammatory and oxidative stress-induced neuronal damage. Besides this, PI3K/Akt and ER-α-mediated activation of ADAM10, ApoJ/LRP1-mediated clearance of Aβ, and MAO-B inhibition-mediated preservation of dopaminergic neurons integrity are the major modulations produced by formononetin. This review covers the biosynthesis of formononetin and key molecular pathways modulated by formononetin to confer neuroprotection.

Phytochemical Composition of Different Red Clover Genotypes Based on Plant Part and Genetic Traits

Red clover (Trifolium pratense L.) is an important legume that is also known as a rich source of isoflavones, which are compounds with mild estrogenic activity. Therefore, this plant is often used as a raw material in the production of dietary supplements recommended in menopause. Many factors can influence isoflavone content, but those genetically related are considered to be the most important. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the phytochemical profile of different plant parts of 30 red clover genotypes grouped according to ploidy and country of seed origin by analyzing the content of dominant isoflavones, total phenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant activity. It was found that there are significant differences in the examined traits among plant parts. Red clover leaves had the highest total isoflavone content, with biochanin A as the dominant compound, while flower extracts had the highest TPC and antioxidant activity. Diploid and tetraploid genotypes were significantly different concerning the content of daidzein, genistein, formononetin and TPC with higher quantities in tetraploid samples. On the other hand, seed origin was not a useful separating factor for the analyzed samples. The results of this research indicate that ploidy, as a previously poorly studied factor, could influence isoflavone content in red clover.

Formononetin attenuates high glucose-induced neurotoxicity by negatively regulating oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction in Schwann cells via activation of SIRT3

High glucose induces Schwann cells death and neurotoxicity. Formononetin was originally found in Astragalus membranaceus and showed anti-tumor and anti-neuroinflammation properties. The aim of this study is to explore the molecular mechanism underlying the neuroprotective effects of formononetin and identify its direct protein target. The effects of formononetin on oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction in Schwann cells induced by high glucose were investigated. High glucose treatment significantly induced oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction and apoptosis in Schwann cells, while these effects were partially or completely prevented by co-treatment with formononetin. Mechanistically, we found that SIRT3/PGC-1α/SOD2 pathway was activated by formononetin under high glucose conditions as evidenced by western blotting. Knockdown of SIRT3 by siRNA delivery reversed the protective effects of formononetin on high glucose-induced Schwann cells injury and changes in expression profile of SIRT3 downstream target genes. Molecular docking, thermal shift assay and surface plasmon resonance assay revealed a direct binding between formononetin and SIRT3. Taken together, we identified a novel SIRT3 activator formononetin and revealed its beneficial effects on high glucose-induced neurotoxicity, suggesting that targeting SIRT3 in Schwann cells may be a new approach for treatment of peripheral nerve regeneration related diseases such as diabetic peripheral neuropathy.

Multi-target regulatory mechanism of Yang Xin Tang - a traditional Chinese medicine against dementia

BACKGROUND

Yang Xin Tang (YXT) is a traditional Chinese herbal preparation which has been reported to improve cognitive function and memory in patients with dementia. As the underlying mechanism of action of YXT has not been elucidated, we examined the effects of YXT and its major herbal components in regulating gene transcription and molecular targets related to Alzheimer's disease (AD).

METHODS

Aqueous and ethanol extracts of YXT and selected herbal components were prepared and validated by standard methods. A series of biochemical and cellular assays were employed to assess the ability of the herbal extracts to inhibit acetylcholinesterase, reduce β-amyloid aggregation, stimulate the differentiation of neural progenitor cells, suppress cyclooxygenase, and protect neurons against β-amyloid or N-methyl-D-aspartate-induced cytotoxicity. The effects of YXT on multiple molecular targets were further corroborated by a panel of nine reporter gene assays.

RESULTS

Extracts of YXT and two of its constituent herbs, Poria cocos and Poria Sclerotium pararadicis, significantly inhibited β-amyloid aggregation and β-amyloid-induced cytotoxicity. A protective effect of the YXT extract was similarly observed against N-methyl-D-aspartate-induced cytotoxicity in primary neurons, and this activity was shared by extracts of Radix Astragali and Rhizoma Chuanxiong. Although the YXT extract was ineffective, extracts of Poria cocos, Poria Sclerotium pararadicis and Radix Polygalae inhibited acetylcholine esterase, with the latter also capable of upregulating choline acetyltransferase. YXT and its components significantly inhibited the activities of the pro-inflammatory cyclooxygenases. Additionally, extracts of YXT and several of its constituent herbs significantly stimulated the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinases and cAMP-responsive element binding protein, two molecular targets involved in learning and memory, as well as in the regulation of neurogenesis.

CONCLUSIONS

Several constituents of YXT possess multiple regulatory effects on known therapeutic targets of AD that range from β-amyloid to acetylcholinesterase. The demonstrated neuroprotective and neurogenic actions of YXT lend credence to its use as an alternative medicine for treating AD.

A comparative study on inclusion complex formation between formononetin and β-cyclodextrin derivatives through multiscale classical and umbrella sampling simulations

Formononetin, a naturally occurring isoflavone exhibits a wide range of therapeutic applications including antioxidant, anti-tumor, antiviral, anti-diabetic and neuroprotective activities. However, the low hydro-solubility of formononetin has limited its prospective use in cosmetic, neutraceutical and pharmaceutical industries. Cyclodextrins (CDs), especially β-CD and its derivatives have emerged as promising agents to improve the water solubility of poorly hydrosoluble compounds by the formation of inclusion complexes. We employed multiscale (1000 ns) explicit solvent and umbrella sampling molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to study the interactions and thermodynamic parameters of inclusion complex formation between formononetin and five most commonly used β-CD derivatives. Classical MD simulations revealed two possible binding conformations of formononetin inside the central cavity of hydroxypropyl-β-CD (HP-β-CD), randomly methylated-β-CD (ME-β-CD), and sulfobutylether-β-CD (SBE-β-CD). The binding conformation with the benzopyrone ring of formononetin inside the central cavity of β-CD derivatives was more frequent than the phenyl group occupying the hydrophobic cavity. These interactions were supported by a variety of non-bonded contacts including hydrogen bonds, pi-lone pair, pi-sigma, and pi-alkyl interactions. Formononetin showed favorable end-state MD-driven thermodynamic binding free energies with all the selected β-CD derivatives, except succinyl-β-CD (S-β-CD). Furthermore, umbrella sampling simulations were used to investigate the interactions and thermodynamic parameters of the host-guest inclusion complexes. The SBE-β-CD/formononetin inclusion complex showed the lowest binding energy signifying the highest affinity among all the selected host-guest inclusion complexes. Our study could be used as a standard for analyzing and comparing the ability of different β-CD derivatives to enhance the hydro-solubility of poorly soluble molecules.

Sodium formononetin-3'-sulphonate alleviates cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury in rats via suppressing endoplasmic reticulum stress-mediated apoptosis

BACKGROUND

Sodium formononetin-3'-sulphonate (Sul-F) may alleviate I/R injury in vivo with uncertain mechanism. Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-mediated apoptosis participates in the process of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury. Our aim is to figure out the effect of Sul-F on cerebral I/R injury and to verify whether it works through suppressing ER stress-mediated apoptosis.

RESULTS

The cerebral lesions of middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model in SD rats were aggravated after 24 h of reperfusion, including impaired neurological function, increased infarct volume, intensified inflammatory response and poor cell morphology. After intervention, the edaravone (EDA, 3 mg/kg) group and Sul-F high-dose (Sul-F-H, 80 mg/kg) group significantly alleviated I/R injury via decreasing neurological score, infarct volume and the serum levels of inflammatory factors (TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6), as well as alleviating pathological injury. Furthermore, the ER stress level and apoptosis rate were elevated in the ischemic penumbra of MCAO group, and were significantly blocked by EDA and Sul-F-H. In addition, EDA and Sul-F-H significantly down-regulated the ER stress related PERK/eIF2α/ATF4 and IRE1 signal pathways, which led to reduced cell apoptosis rate compared with the MCAO group. Furthermore, there was no difference between the EDA and Sul-F-H group in terms of therapeutic effect on cerebral I/R injury, indicating a therapeutic potential of Sul-F for ischemic stroke.

CONCLUSIONS

Sul-F-H can significantly protects against cerebral I/R injury through inhibiting ER stress-mediated apoptosis in the ischemic penumbra, which might be a novel therapeutic target for ischemic stroke.

A Review of the Pharmacological Potential of Spatholobus suberectus Dunn on Cancer

Spatholobus suberectus Dunn (SSD) has been extensively employed in Traditional Chinese Medicine to treat several ailments. SSD and its active compounds are effective therapeutic agents for treating a variety of diseases with negligible side effects. Therefore, we aimed to investigate its phytochemistry, pharmacology, and potential therapeutic effects exclusively in cancer prevention and treatment. Phytochemical and pharmacological information was collected and arranged in a rational order. SSD has been frequently attributed to having antioxidant, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, hematopoietic, neuroprotective, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties. Evidence has indicated that the bioactive constituents in SSD have attracted increasing scientific attention due to their preventive role in cancers. Further, the present review provides the current information on the health implications of SSD, thus allowing for future clinical trials to explore its restorative benefits. All data of in vitro and animal investigations of SSD, as well as its effect on human health, were obtained from an electronic search and library database. The diverse pharmacological potential of SSD provides an opportunity for preclinical drug discovery, and this comprehensive review strongly indicates that SSD is an excellent anti-tumorigenic agent that modulates or prevents breast cancer.

Therapeutic Potential and Mechanisms of Novel Simple O-Substituted Isoflavones against Cerebral Ischemia Reperfusion

Isoflavones have been widely studied and have attracted extensive attention in fields ranging from chemotaxonomy and plant physiology to human nutrition and medicine. Isoflavones are often divided into three subgroups: simple O-substituted derivatives, prenylated derivatives, and glycosides. Simple O-substituted isoflavones and their glycosides, such as daidzein (daidzin), genistein (genistin), glycitein (glycitin), biochanin A (astroside), and formononetin (ononin), are the most common ingredients in legumes and are considered as phytoestrogens for daily dietary hormone replacement therapy due to their structural similarity to 17-β-estradiol. On the basis of the known estrogen-like potency, these above isoflavones possess multiple pharmacological activities such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, anti-angiogenetic, hepatoprotective, antidiabetic, antilipidemic, anti-osteoporotic, and neuroprotective activities. However, there are very few review studies on the protective effects of these novel isoflavones and their related compounds in cerebral ischemia reperfusion. This review primarily focuses on the biosynthesis, metabolism, and neuroprotective mechanism of these aforementioned novel isoflavones in cerebral ischemia reperfusion. From these published works in in vitro and in vivo studies, simple O-substituted isoflavones could serve as promising therapeutic compounds for the prevention and treatment of cerebral ischemia reperfusion via their estrogenic receptor properties and neuron-modulatory, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic effects. The detailed mechanism of the protective effects of simple O-substituted isoflavones against cerebral ischemia reperfusion might be related to the PI3K/AKT/ERK/mTOR or GSK-3β pathway, eNOS/Keap1/Nrf-2/HO-1 pathway, TLRs/TIRAP/MyD88/NFκ-B pathway, and Bcl-2-regulated anti-apoptotic pathway. However, clinical trials are needed to verify their potential on cerebral ischemia reperfusion because past studies were conducted with rodents and prophylactic administration.

Aqueous extract from Astragalus membranaceus can improve the function degradation and delay aging on Drosophila melanogaster through antioxidant mechanism

Astragali radix is the dry root of the leguminous plants Astragalus membranaceus (Fisch.) Bge. Var. mongholicus (Bge.) Hsiao and Astragalus membranaceus (Fisch.) Bge. Astragali radix is mostly used clinically as a decoction. A number of pharmacological studies shows that Astragalus extract can increase telomerase activity, and has anti-oxidation, anti-inflammatory, immune regulation, anti-cancer, lowering blood lipid, lowering blood sugar and other effects. However, the anti-aging mechanism of aqueous extract from Astragali Radix (ARE) is still unclear. In this study, we evaluated the anti-aging effect of ARE on Drosophila melanogaster (D. melanogaster) and investigated the underlying mechanism. The results of lifespan assay showed that 1.25 mg/mL of ARE can significantly prolong the lifespan of D. melanogaster in a natural aging model, and protect against H2O2 and paraquat. Meanwhile, ARE can improve flies climbing ability and food intake. Metabolomics and the glutamate content assay suggested that ARE prevented an age-dependent increase in glutamate levels in D. melanogaster. Furthermore, ARE showed a dose-dependent effect on the scavenging ability of DPPH in vitro. Superoxide dismutase and catalase activities in the aging group also increased after the intervention of ARE. The data and the findings described here support the notion that ARE may play a preventive role in aging by improving the climbing ability, eliminating harmful free radicals accumulated in D. melanogaster and triggering antioxidant responses.

Metabolomic Insights of the Effects of Bacterial Algicide IRI-160AA on Dinoflagellate Karlodinium veneficum

Shewanella sp. IRI-160 is an algicidal bacterium that secretes an algicide, IRI-160AA. This algicide specifically targets dinoflagellates, while having no adverse effects on other algal species tested. Dinoflagellates exposed to IRI-160AA exhibited increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), DNA damage, and cell cycle arrest, implying a programmed pathway leading to cell death (PCD). Here, a metabolomic analysis was conducted on dinoflagellate Karlodinium veneficum and a control cryptophyte species Rhodomonas exposed to IRI-160AA to investigate the cellular mechanisms behind the physiological effects and the specificity of this algicide. Results of this research supported previous observations about physiological responses to the algicide. A suite of metabolites was identified that increased in the cell pellets of K. veneficum but not in Rhodomonas, including oxidative stress biomarkers, antioxidants, and compounds involved in DNA damage and PCD. Overall, the results of this study illustrated the metabolomic mechanisms underlying the algicidal effects of IRI-160AA on dinoflagellates. This research also provided insights and future directions for studies on the cellular response of dinoflagellates exposed to antagonistic bacteria in the environment.

Protective effects of functional foods against Parkinson's disease: A narrative review on pharmacology, phytochemistry, and molecular mechanisms

In Persian Medicine (PM), PD (brain-based tremor) is a known CNS disorder with several therapeutic and preventive options. In their medical textbooks and pharmacopeias, Persian great scientists such as Rhazes (854-925 AD), Avicenna (980-1037 AD), and Jorjani (1042-1136 AD), have discussed pharmacological and nutritional strategies for the prevention, slowing progression, and treatment of PD. In the present study, we surveyed plant- and animal-based foods recommended by PM for the prevention and treatment of CNS-related tremors. In vivo and in-vitro pharmacological evidence supporting the beneficial effects of PM-recommended foods in prevention and alleviating PD, major active phytochemicals along with the relevant mechanisms of action were studied. Several PM plants possess potent antioxidant, antiinflammatory, and PD preventing properties. Garlic and allicin, cabbage and isothiocyanates, chickpea seed and its O-methylated isoflavones biochanin A and formononetin, cinnamon, and cinnamaldehyde, saffron and its crocin, crocetin, and safranal, black cumin and its thymoquinone, black pepper and piperine, pistachio and genistein and daidzein, and resveratrol are among the most effective dietary itemsagainst PD. They act through attenuating neurotoxin-induced memory loss and behavioral impairment, oxidative stress, and dopaminergic cell death. PM-recommended foods can help alleviate PD progression and also discovering and developing new neuroprotective anti-PD pharmaceuticals.

The antidepressant-like effect of formononetin on chronic corticosterone-treated mice

Previous studies reported the neuroprotective effects of formononetin (FMN), however, whether it has antidepressant-like effects have not been reported. To evaluate the antidepressant-like effects of FMN, a mice model of depression was established by chronic corticosterone (CORT) injection. The serum corticosterone levels and hippocampal protein expression were detected by ELISA and Western blot. Nissl staining was used to observe the damage of hippocampal neurons and immunofluorescence was used to observe the neurogenesis in the hippocampus. Our results showed that FMN significantly increased the sucrose preference and shorten the immobility time in the forced swimming test in CORT-treated mice. Moreover, FMN reduced the serum corticosterone levels, upregulated the protein expression levels of the glucocorticoid receptor (GR), and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the hippocampus, protected against the CORT-induced neuronal impairment, and promoted the neurogenesis in the hippocampus. Taken together, the present study was the first to demonstrate the antidepressant-like effects of FMN in the CORT-induced mice model of depression, which may contribute to the discovery of a new candidate for treating depression.

Polyphenols and neuroprotection: Therapeutic implications for cognitive decline

Dietary polyphenols have been the focus of major interest for their potential benefits on human health. Several preclinical studies have been conducted to provide a rationale for their potential use as therapeutic agents in preventing or ameliorating cognitive decline. However, results from human studies are scarce and poorly documented. The aim of this review was to discuss the potential mechanisms involved in age-related cognitive decline or early stage cognitive impairment and current evidence from clinical human studies conducted on polyphenols and the aforementioned outcomes. The evidence published so far is encouraging but contrasting findings are to be taken into account. Most studies on anthocyanins showed a consistent positive effect on various cognitive aspects related to aging or early stages of cognitive impairment. Studies on cocoa flavanols, resveratrol, and isoflavones provided substantial contrasting results and further research is needed to clarify the therapeutic potential of these compounds. Results from other studies on quercetin, green tea flavanols, hydroxycinnamic acids (such as chlorogenic acid), curcumin, and olive oil tyrosol and derivatives are rather promising but still too few to provide any real conclusions. Future translational studies are needed to address issues related to dosage, optimal formulations to improve bioavailability, as well as better control for the overall diet, and correct target population.

Screening and Identification of Antidepressant Active Ingredients from Puerariae Radix Extract and Study on Its Mechanism

Objective. Depression is a common mental disease with long course and high recurrence rate. Previous studies showed that Puerariae Radix and its extracts have powerful antidepressant effects in recent years. The study proposed an integrated strategy, combining network pharmacology and molecular pharmacology experiment to investigate the mechanisms of the antidepressant active ingredients from Puerariae Radix. Methods. TCMSP database, GeneCards database, Venny 2.1, UniProt database, STRING database, Cytoscape 3.7.2, and Metascape database were used to screen the active chemical components, antidepressant-related genes, and core targets, convert the abbreviated gene names in batch, search and predict the interaction between proteins, and construct the PPI network of Puerariae Radix. KEGG pathway and GO biological process enrichment and biological annotation were used to select antidepressant core gene targets. The MTT method was used to detect the effect of puerarin on the damage of PC12 cells induced by corticosterone. The DCFH-DA probe and ROS assay kit were utilized to detect the production of ROS in PC12 cells. PI/Annexin V was used to detect the apoptotic rate of puerarin on PC12 cells. Western blotting was used to verify the regulation of puerarin on the key targets of AKT1, FOS, CASP3, STAT3, and TNF-α in PC12 cells. Results and Conclusion. Eight main active components, 64 potential antidepressant gene targets, and 15 core antidepressant gene targets were obtained. 35 signaling pathways and 52 biological processes related to antidepressant effect of Puerariae Radix were identified. Puerarin was the active ingredient derived from Puerariae Radix which exhibited the antidepression effect by improving the viability of cell, reducing cell apoptosis, regulating ROS production, increasing protein expressions of AKT1 and FOS, and reducing protein expressions of CASP3, STAT3, and TNF-α. The study revealed the pharmacodynamic material basis and possible antidepressant mechanism of Puerariae Radix and provided new theoretical basis and ideas for antidepressant research.

Formononetin attenuates H2O2-induced cell death through decreasing ROS level by PI3K/Akt-Nrf2-activated antioxidant gene expression and suppressing MAPK-regulated apoptosis in neuronal SH-SY5Y cells

Formononetin is an isoflavone, found in herbs like Trifolium pratense, which executes a variety of physiological activities including anti-neurodegenerative effect. However, the molecular mechanism of formononetin-mediated neuroprotection remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the protective effect of formononetin on hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂)-induced death of human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells and its underlying molecular mechanism. Formononetin suppressed H₂O₂-induced cytotoxicity. H₂O₂-induced increase in the intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels was decreased by formononetin, together with the enhanced expression of the antioxidant genes. H₂O₂-induced elevation of the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio and cleaved caspase-3 and caspase-7 levels were lowered by formononetin treatment. Moreover, formononetin repressed H₂O₂-induced phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs). Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) siRNA decreased antioxidant gene expression and elevated the H₂O₂-induced ROS level in the formononetin-treated cells. Furthermore, the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt) signaling is involved in the activation of the nuclear translocation of Nrf2. These results indicate that the neuroprotective effect of formononetin against H₂O₂-induced cell death is due to a decrease in the ROS level with the enhanced expression of the antioxidant genes through activation of the PI3K/Akt-Nrf2 signaling. In addition, formononetin suppressed apoptosis through inhibition of phosphorylation of MAPKs in SH-SY5Y cells. Thus, formononetin is a potential therapeutic agent for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.

Formononetin: Biological effects and uses - A review

Formononetin (FORM) is an isoflavone from the group of phytoestrogens that exhibits a broad spectrum of physiological effects beneficial to health through dependent and independent mechanisms of estrogen. This article aimed to present FORM main functions and future prospects for applications in different areas. Scientific publications and patents dated between 1998 and 2019 were analyzed. FORM has potential as an active compound of interest to product development for the industries of food, medicine, and cosmetics, among others. Moreover, in the medical area, this active compound has shown potential in the prevention and treatment of several diseases, including chronic ones, such as cancer, obesity, and neurodegenerative diseases.

Formononetin Ameliorates Cognitive Disorder via PGC-1α Pathway in Neuroinflammation Conditions in High-Fat Diet-Induced Mice

BACKGROUND

Alzheimer's disease is one of the most common neurodegenerative diseases in many modern societies. The core pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease includes the aggregation of hyperphosphorylated Tau and abnormal Amyloid-β generation. In addition, previous studies have shown that neuroinflammation is one of the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease. Formononetin, an isoflavone compound extracted from Trifolium pratense L., has been found to have various properties including anti-obesity, anti-inflammation, and neuroprotective effects. But there are very few studies on the treatment of Alzheimer's disease with Formononetin.

OBJECTIVE

The present study focused on the protective activities of Formononetin on a high-fat dietinduced cognitive decline and explored the underlying mechanisms.

METHODS

Mice were fed with HFD for 10 weeks and intragastric administrated daily with metformin (300 mg/kg) and Formononetin (20 and 40 mg/kg).

RESULTS

We found that Formononetin (20, 40 mg/kg) significantly attenuated the learning and memory deficits companied by weight improvement and decreased the levels of blood glucose, total cholesterol and triglyceride in high-fat diet-induced mice. Meanwhile, we observed high-fat diet significantly caused the Tau hyperphosphorylation in the hippocampus of mice, whereas Formononetin reversed this effect. Additionally, Formononetin markedly reduced the levels of inflammation cytokines IL-1β and TNF-α in high-fat diet-induced mice. The mechanism study showed that Formononetin suppressed the pro-inflammatory NF-κB signaling and enhanced the anti-inflammatory Nrf-2/HO-1 signaling, which might be related to the regulation of PGC-1α in the hippocampus of high-fat diet -induced mice.

CONCLUSION

Taken together, our results showed that Formononetin could improve the cognitive function by inhibiting neuroinflammation, which is attributed to the regulation of PGC-1α pathway in HFD-induced mice.

In situ photocrosslinkable formulation of nanocomposites based on multi-walled carbon nanotubes and formononetin for potential application in spinal cord injury treatment

Carbon nanotubes (CN) have been studied to treat spinal cord injuries because of its electrical properties and nanometric dimensions. This work aims to develop a photopolymerizable hydrogel containing CN functionalized with an anti-inflammatory molecule to be used in situ on spinal cord injuries. The CN functionalization step was done using the drug (formononetin). The nanocomposites were characterized by morphological analysis, FTIR, Raman Spectroscopy, thermal analysis and cytotoxicity assays (MTT and HET-CAM). The nanocomposites were incorporated into gelatin methacryloyl hydrogel and exposed to UV light for photopolymerization. The volume of the formulation and the UV exposition time were also analyzed. The CN characterization showed that formononetin acted as a functionalization agent. The functionalized CN showed safe characteristics and can be incorporated in photocrosslinkable formulation. The UV exposition time for the formulation photopolymerization was compatible with the cell viability and also occurred in the injury site.

Formononetin Ameliorates Diabetic Neuropathy by Increasing Expression of SIRT1 and NGF

Diabetic neuropathy is commonly observed complication in more than 50 % of type 2 diabetic patients. Histone deacetylases including SIRT1 have significant role to protect neuron from hyperglycemia induced damage. Formononetin (FMNT) is known for its effect to control hyperglycemia and also activate SIRT1. In present study, we evaluated effect of FMNT as SIRT1 activator in type 2 diabetic neuropathy. Type 2 diabetic neuropathy was induced in rats by modification of diet for 15 days using high fat diet and administration of streptozotocin (35 mg/kg/day, i. p.). FMNT treatment was initiated after confirmation of type 2 diabetes. Treatment was given for 16 weeks at 10, 20 and 40 mg/kg/day dose orally. FMNT treatment-controlled hypoglycemia and reduced insulin resistance significantly in diabetic animals. FMNT treatment reduced oxidative stress in sciatic nerve tissue. FMNT treatment also reduced thermal hyperalgesia and mechanical allodynia significantly. It improved conduction velocity in nerve and unregulated SIRT1 and NGF expression in sciatic nerve tissue. Results of present study indicate that continuous administration of FMNT protected diabetic animals from hyperglycemia induced neuronal damage by controlling hyperglycemia and increasing SIRT1 and NGF expression in nerve tissue. Thus, FMNT can be an effective candidate for treatment of type 2 diabetic neuropathy.

Formononetin Regulates Multiple Oncogenic Signaling Cascades and Enhances Sensitivity to Bortezomib in a Multiple Myeloma Mouse Model

Here, we determined the anti-neoplastic actions of formononetin (FT) against multiple myeloma (MM) and elucidated its possible mode of action. It was observed that FT enhanced the apoptosis caused by bortezomib (Bor) and mitigated proliferation in MM cells, and these events are regulated by nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT, and activator protein-1 (AP-1) activation. We further noted that FT treatment reduced the levels of diverse tumorigenic proteins involved in myeloma progression and survival. Interestingly, we observed that FT also blocked persistent NF-κB, PI3K/AKT, and AP-1 activation in myeloma cells. FT suppressed the activation of these oncogenic cascades by affecting a number of signaling molecules involved in their cellular regulation. In addition, FT augmented tumor growth-inhibitory potential of Bor in MM preclinical mouse model. Thus, FT can be employed with proteasomal inhibitors for myeloma therapy by regulating the activation of diverse oncogenic transcription factors involved in myeloma growth.

Anxiolytic effects of Formononetin in an inflammatory pain mouse model

Chronic pain is commonly accompanied with anxiety disorder, which complicates treatment. In this study, we investigated the analgesic and anxiolytic effects of Formononetin (FMNT), an active component of traditional Chinese medicine red clover (Trifolium pratense L.) that is capable of protecting neurons from N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA)-evoked excitotoxic injury, on mice suffering from complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA)-induced chronic inflammatory pain. The results show that FMNT administration significantly reduces anxiety-like behavior but does not affect the nociceptive threshold in CFA-injected mice. The treatment reverses the upregulation of NMDA, GluA1, and GABA_A receptors, as well as PSD95 and CREB in the basolateral amygdala (BLA). The effects of FMNT on NMDA receptors and CREB binding protein (CBP) were further confirmed by the potential structure combination between these compounds, which was analyzed by in silico docking technology. FMNT also inhibits the activation of the NF-κB signaling pathway and microglia in the BLA of mice suffering from chronic inflammatory pain. Therefore, the anxiolytic effects of FMNT are partially due to the attenuation of inflammation and neuronal hyperexcitability through the inhibition of NMDA receptor and CBP in the BLA.

Formononetin may protect aged hearts from ischemia/reperfusion damage by enhancing autophagic degradation

Myocardial infarction is a leading cause of mortality worldwide, and timely blood/oxygen reperfusion may substantially improve the outcome of infarction. However, ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) may cause severe side effects through excess reactive oxygen species generation. To develop novel methods to relieve I/R induced cell damage, the present study used a component of traditional Chinese medicine. In the present study, isolated heart tissue from aged mice and H9C2 cells with chemically‑induced aging were used as experimental subjects, and it was demonstrated that formononetin was able to alleviate I/R‑induced cell or tissue apoptosis. By applying formononetin to I/R‑damaged tissue or cells, it was demonstrated that formononetin was able to enhance autophagy and thus alleviate I/R‑induced cell damage. Furthermore, it was observed that I/R was able to inhibit lysosomal degradation processes in aged tissues or cells by impairing the lysosome acidification level, and formononetin was able to reverse this process via the re‑acidification of lysosomes. In conclusion, the present study demonstrated that formononetin was able to alleviate I/R‑induced cellular apoptosis in aged cells by facilitating autophagy.

Chemical Identification of Isoflavonoids from a Termite-Associated Streptomyces sp. RB1 and Their Neuroprotective Effects in Murine Hippocampal HT22 Cell Line

Insect-associated bacteria have been recognized as a very promising natural resource for discovering bioactive secondary metabolites with diverse pharmacological effects. One new isoflavonoid glycoside, termisoflavone D (1), together with seven known isoflavonoids (2–8), were identified from MeOH extracts of the fungus-growing termite-associated Streptomyces sp. RB1. The chemical structure of the new compound 1 was elucidated using comprehensive spectroscopic methods including 1D and 2D NMR, along with LC/MS analysis. The existence of two rhamnose moieties in 1 was determined with comparative NMR analysis, and the absolute configuration was elucidated using chemical reactions. The neuroprotective activities of compounds 1–8 were thoroughly investigated using the murine hippocampal HT22 cell line. Compound 5 prevented glutamate-induced HT22 cell death by blocking intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation. The present study provides the first experimental evidence for the potential use of isoflavonoids from termite-associated bacteria as lead compounds that can prevent neuronal damage induced by glutamate.

Anti-Aging Implications of Astragalus Membranaceus (Huangqi): A Well-Known Chinese Tonic

Owing to a dramatic increase in average life expectancy and the Family Planning program of the 1970s - 1990s, China is rapidly becoming an aging society. Therefore, the investigation of healthspan-extending drugs becomes more urgent. Astragalus membranaceus (Huangqi) is a major medicinal herb that has been commonly used in many herbal formulations in the practice of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) to treat a wide variety of diseases and body disorders, or marketed as life-prolonging extracts for human use in China, for more than 2000 years. The major components of Astragalus membranaceus are polysaccharides, flavonoids, and saponins. Pharmacological research indicates that the extract component of Astragalus membranaceus can increase telomerase activity, and has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunoregulatory, anticancer, hypolipidemic, antihyperglycemic, hepatoprotective, expectorant, and diuretic effects. A proprietary extract of the dried root of Astragalus membranaceus, called TA-65, was associated with a significant age-reversal effect in the immune system. Our review focuses on the function and the underlying mechanisms of Astragalus membranaceus in lifespan extension, anti-vascular aging, anti-brain aging, and anti-cancer effects, based on experimental and clinical studies.

Neuroprotective Activity of Cerebrosides from Typhonium giganteum by Regulating Caspase-3 and Bax/Bcl-2 Signaling Pathways in PC12 Cells

An investigation of the potential neuroprotective natural product constituents of the rhizomes of Typhonium giganteum led to the isolation of two new cerebrosides, typhonosides E (1) and F (2), along with 11 known analogues (3-13). The structures of compounds 1 and 2 were elucidated by spectroscopic data interpretation. The activity of these compounds against glutamate-induced cell apoptosis was investigated in PC12 cells. All compounds exhibited such activity, which was related to the length of the fatty acyl chain. Among them, longan cerebroside II (11), with the longest fatty acyl chain, showed the most potent protective effect in PC12 cells from glutamate injury, with an EC₅₀ value of 2.5 μM. Moreover, at the molecular level, longan cerebroside II (11) downregulated the expression of caspase-9, caspase-3, and Bax, upregulated the expression of Bcl-2, and decreased the level of cytosolic cytochrome c in a concentration-dependent manner.

Astragali radix: could it be an adjuvant for oxaliplatin-induced neuropathy?

Neurotoxicity is a major side effect of platinum derivatives both during and after treatment. In the absence of effective pharmacological compounds, the opportunity to identify safe adjuvant treatments among medicinal plants seems appropriate. Astragali radix is an adaptogenic herbal product recently analyzed in platinum-treated cancer patients. With the aim of evaluating the anti-neuropathic profile of Astragali radix, a previously characterized aqueous (Aqu) and two hydroalcoholic (20%HA and 50%HA) extracts were tested in a rat model of oxaliplatin-induced neuropathy. Repeated administrations significantly reduced oxaliplatin-dependent hypersensitivity with 50%HA, the most effective, fully preventing mechanical and thermal hypersensitivity. Ex vivo, 50%HA reduced morphometric and molecular alterations induced by oxaliplatin in peripheral nerve and dorsal-root-ganglia. In the spinal cord and in brain areas, 50%HA significantly decreased activation of microglia and astrocytes. Furthermore, 50%HA prevented the nephro- and hepato-toxicity induced by the anticancer drug. The protective effect of 50%HA did not alter oxaliplatin-induced apoptosis in colon tumors of Pirc rats, an Apc-driven model of colon carcinogenesis. The hydroalcoholic extract (50%HA) of Astragali radix relieves pain and promotes the rescue mechanisms that protect nervous tissue from the damages triggering chronic pain. A safe profile strongly suggests the usefulness of this natural product in oxaliplatin-induced neuropathy.

Apigenin reduce lipoteichoic acid-induced inflammatory response in rat cardiomyoblast cells

Infective endocarditis is caused by Streptococcus sanguinis present in dental plaque, which can induce inflammatory responses in the endocardium. The present study depicts research on the properties of apigenin in embryonic mouse heart cells (H9c2) treated with lipoteichoic acid (LTA) obtained from S. sanguinis. Interleukin-1β and cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 expression were detected by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. In addition, western blot assays and immuno-fluorescence staining were used to assess translocation of nuclear factor kappa beta (NF-κB), degradation of IκB, as well as activity of the mitogen activated protein kinases: extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)1/2, p38, and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK). Effect of apigenin on cell viability was equally assessed in other experimental series. Our results showed that apigenin blocked activation of ERK, JNK, and p38 in cardiomyocytes treated with LTA in a dose-dependent fashion. Moreover, apigenin showed no cytotoxic effects; it blocked NF-κB translocation and IκB degradation. Our findings suggested that apigenin possessed potential value in the treatment of infectious endocarditis.

Flavonoids from the Genus Astragalus: Phytochemistry and Biological Activity

Flavonoids, the most common plant polyphenols are widely distributed in every species and possess a broad range of pharmacological activities. The genus Astragalus is the largest in the Fabaceae family with more than 2,500 species spread. They are known to contain different metabolites such as flavonoids, saponins, and polysaccharides. Plants from the genus have been used in the traditional medicine of many countries for centuries. This paper is focused on the large group of flavonoid compounds. Details on structure as well as information about the pharmacological properties of flavonoids, isolated from Astragalus species have been discussed. This review is based on publications until the first half of 2014 and includes also the results from our phytochemical investigations of the genus.

Chinese Herbal Products for Ischemic Stroke

Traditional Chinese herbal products (CHPs) have been described in ancient medicine systems as treatments for various stroke-associated ailments. This study is aimed to investigate the prescription patterns and combinations of CHPs for ischemic stroke in Taiwan. Prescriptions of CHPs for ischemic stroke were obtained from the National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD) of Taiwan. Every prescription with a leading diagnosis of ischemic stroke made during 2000-2010 was analyzed. Descriptive statistics were applied to the pattern of co-prescriptions. Multiple logistic regression models were used to assess demographic and risk factors that are correlated with CHP use. The dataset of inpatient claims data contained information on 15,896 subjects who experienced ischemic stroke from 2000 to 2010. There was an average of 5.82 CHPs in a single prescription for subjects with ischemic stroke. Bu-yang-huan-wu-tang (BYHWT) (40.32%) was by far the most frequently prescribed formula CHP for ischemic stroke, and the most commonly used combination of two-formula-CHP was BYHWT with Shu-jin-huo-xue-tang (SJHXT) (4.40%). Dan Shen (16.50%) was the most commonly used single CHP for ischemic stroke, and the most commonly used combination of two single CHPs was Shi Chang Pua with Yuan Zhi (4.79%). We found that BYHWT and Dan Shen were the most frequently prescribed formula and single CHP for ischemic stroke, respectively. These results provide information about individualized therapy and may contribute to further pharmacologic experiments and clinical trials.

Estrogen receptor agonists for attenuation of neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration

Recent results from laboratory investigations and clinical trials indicate important roles for estrogen receptor (ER) agonists in protecting the central nervous system (CNS) from noxious consequences of neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration. Neurodegenerative processes in several CNS disorders including spinal cord injury (SCI), multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson's disease (PD), and Alzheimer's disease (AD) are associated with activation of microglia and astrocytes, which drive the resident neuroinflammatory response. During neurodegenerative processes, activated microglia and astrocytes cause deleterious effects on surrounding neurons. The inhibitory activity of ER agonists on microglia activation might be a beneficial therapeutic option for delaying the onset or progression of neurodegenerative injuries and diseases. Recent studies suggest that ER agonists can provide neuroprotection by modulation of cell survival mechanisms, synaptic reorganization, regenerative responses to axonal injury, and neurogenesis process. The anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective actions of ER agonists are mediated mainly via two ERs known as ERα and ERβ. Although some studies have suggested that ER agonists may be deleterious to some neuronal populations, the potential clinical benefits of ER agonists for augmenting cognitive function may triumph over the associated side effects. Also, understanding the modulatory activities of ER agonists on inflammatory pathways will possibly lead to the development of selective anti-inflammatory molecules with neuroprotective roles in different CNS disorders such as SCI, MS, PD, and AD in humans. Future studies should be concentrated on finding the most plausible molecular pathways for enhancing protective functions of ER agonists in treating neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative injuries and diseases in the CNS.