Forsythiaside A Exhibits Anti-inflammatory Effects in LPS-Stimulated BV2 Microglia Cells Through Activation of Nrf2/HO-1 Signaling Pathway

The phytochemistry, pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, quality control, and toxicity of Forsythiae Fructus: An updated systematic review

Forsythiae Fructus (FF), the dried fruit of F. suspensa, is commonly used to treat fever, inflammation, etc in China or other Asian countries. FF is usually used as the core herb in traditional Chinese medicine preparations for the treatment of influenza, such as Shuang-huang-lian oral liquid and Yin-qiao powder, etc. Since the wide application and core role of FF, its research progress was summarized in terms of traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, quality control, and toxicity. Meanwhile, the anti-influenza substances and mechanism of FF were emphasized. Till now, a total of 290 chemical components are identified in F. suspensa, and among them, 248 components were isolated and identified from FF, including 42 phenylethanoid glycosides, 48 lignans, 59 terpenoids, 14 flavonoids, 3 steroids, 24 cyclohexyl ethanol derivatives, 14 alkaloids, 26 organic acids, and 18 other types. FF and their pure compounds have the pharmacological activities of anti-virus, anti-inflammation, anti-oxidant, anti-bacteria, anti-tumor, neuroprotection, hepatoprotection, etc. Inhibition of TLR7, RIG-I, MAVS, NF-κB, MyD88 signaling pathway were the reported anti-influenza mechanisms of FF and phenylethanoid glycosides and lignans are the main active groups. However, the bioavailability of phenylethanoid glycosides and lignans of FF in vivo was low, which needed to be improved. Simultaneously, the un-elucidated compounds and anti-influenza substances of FF strongly needed to be explored. The current quality control of FF was only about forsythoside A and phillyrin, more active components should be taken into consideration. Moreover, there are no reports of toxicity of FF yet, but the toxicity of FF should be not neglected in clinical applications.

Forsythiaside A attenuates mastitis via PINK1/Parkin-mediated mitophagy

BACKGROUND

Bovine mastitis is the most common animal production disease in the global dairy industry, which affects the health of dairy cows. When bovine mastitis occurs, the mitochondrial metabolism of breast tissue increases, and the relationship between inflammation and mitophagy has become a hot topic for many scholars. The abuse of antibiotics leads to the increase of resistance to bovine mastitis. FTA is one of the main effective components of Forsythia suspensa, which has anti-inflammatory, anti-infection, anti-oxidation and anti-virus pharmacological effects, and has broad application prospects in the prevention and treatment of bovine mastitis. However, the relationship between the anti-inflammatory effects of FTA and mitophagy is still unclear.

PURPOSE

This study mainly explores the anti-inflammatory effect of FTA in bovine mastitis and the relationship between mitophagy.

METHODS

MAC-T cells and wild-type mice were used to simulate the in vitro and in vivo response of mastitis. After the pretreatment with FTA, CsA inhibitors and siPINK1 were used to interfere with mitophagy, and the mitochondrial function impairment and the expression of inflammatory factors were detected.

RESULTS

It was found that pre-treatment with FTA significantly reduced LPS induced inflammatory response and mitochondrial damage, while promoting the expression of mitophagy related factors. However, after inhibiting mitophagy, the anti-inflammatory effect of FTA was inhibited.

CONCLUSION

This study is the first to suggest the relationship between the anti-inflammatory effect of FTA and mitophagy. PINK1/Parkin-mediated mitophagy is one of the ways that FTA protects MAC-T cells from LPS-induced inflammatory damage.

Review of the therapeutic potential of Forsythiae Fructus on the central nervous system: Active ingredients and mechanisms of action

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Traditional Chinese medicine has gained significant attention in recent years owing to its multi-component, multi-target, and multi-pathway advantages in treating various diseases. Forsythiae Fructus, derived from the dried fruit of Forsythia suspensa (Thunb.) Vahl, is one such traditional Chinese medicine with numerous in vivo and ex vivo therapeutic effects, including anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral properties. Forsythiae Fructus contains more than 200 chemical constituents, with forsythiaside, forsythiaside A, forsythiaside B, isoforsythiaside, forsythin, and phillyrin being the most active ingredients. Forsythiae Fructus exerts neuroprotective effects by modulating various pathways, including oxidative stress, anti-inflammation, NF-κB signaling, 2-AG, Nrf2 signaling, acetylcholinesterase, PI3K-Akt signaling, ferroptosis, gut-brain axis, TLR4 signaling, endoplasmic reticulum stress, PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling, and PPARγ signaling pathway.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This review aims to highlight the potential therapeutic effects of Forsythiae Fructus on the central nervous system and summarize the current knowledge on the active ingredients of Forsythiae Fructus and their effects on different pathways involved in neuroprotection.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this review, we conducted a comprehensive search of databases (PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science, China Knowledge Resource Integrated, local dissertations and books) up until June 2023 using key terms such as Forsythia suspensa, Forsythiae Fructus, forsythiaside, isoforsythiaside, forsythin, phillyrin, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, ischemic stroke, intracerebral hemorrhage, traumatic brain injury, aging, and herpes simplex virus encephalitis.

RESULTS

Our findings indicate that Forsythiae Fructus and its active ingredients own therapeutic effects on the central nervous system by modulating various pathways, including oxidative stress, anti-inflammation, NF-κB signaling, 2-AG, Nrf2 signaling, acetylcholinesterase, PI3K-Akt signaling, ferroptosis, the gut-brain axis, TLR4 signaling, endoplasmic reticulum stress, PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling, and PPARγ signaling pathway.

CONCLUSION

Forsythiae Fructus and its active ingredients have demonstrated promising neuroprotective properties. Future in vivo and clinical studies of Forsythiae Fructus and its active ingredients should be conducted to establish precise dosage and standard guidelines for a more effective application in the treatment of neurological disorders.

Clinical efficacy, pharmacodynamic components, and molecular mechanisms of antiviral granules in the treatment of influenza: A systematic review

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The Antiviral Granules (AG) are derived from the classical famous prescription, which is composed of 9 traditional Chinese medicines, namely Radix Isatidis (called Banlangen, BLG in Chinese), Forsythiae Fructus (called Lianqiao, LQ in Chinese), Gypsum fibrosum, Anemarrhenae Rhizoma (called Zhimu, ZM in Chinese), Phragmitis Rhizoma (called Lugen, LG in Chinese), Rehmanniae Radix (called Dihuang, DH in Chinese), Pogostemonis Herba (called Guanghuoxiang, GHX in Chinese), Acori Tatarinowii Rhizoma (called Shichangpu, SCP in Chinese), and Curcumae Radix (called Yujin, YJ in Chinese), and has shown an excellent therapeutic effect in clinical treatment of influenza. However, there are few studies on the anti-influenza mechanism of AG, and the mechanism of action is still unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The purpose is to provide the latest information about the clinical efficacy, pharmacodynamic composition and mechanism of AG based on scientific literature, so as to enhance the utilization of AG in the treatment of influenza and related diseases, and promote the development and innovation of novel anti-influenza drugs targeting the influenza virus.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Enter the data retrieval room, search for Antiviral Granules, as well as the scientific names, common names, and Chinese names of each Chinese medicine. Additionally, search for the relevant clinical applications, pharmacodynamic composition, pharmacological action, and molecular mechanism of both Antiviral Granules and single-ingredient medicines. Keywords includes terms such as "antiviral granules", "influenza", "Isatis indigotica Fort.", "Radix Isatidis", "Banlangeng", "pharmacology", "clinical application", "pharmacologic action", etc. and their combinations. Obtain results from the Web of Science, PubMed, Google Scholar, Sci Finder Scholar, CNKI and other resources.

RESULTS

AG is effective in the treatment of influenza and is often used in combination with other drugs to treat viral diseases. Its chemical composition is complex, including alkaloids, polysaccharides, volatile oils, steroid saponins, phenylpropanoids, terpenoids and other compounds. These compounds have a variety of pharmacological activities, which can interfere with the replication cycle of the influenza virus, regulate RIG-I-MAVS, JAK/STAT, TLRs/MyD88, NF-κB signaling pathways and related cytokines, regulate intestinal microorganisms, and protect both the lungs and extrapulmonary organs.

CONCLUSIONS

AG can overcome the limitations of traditional antiviral drug therapy, play a synergistic role in fighting influenza virus with the characteristics of multi-component, multi-pathway and multi-target therapy, and reverse the bodily function damage caused by influenza virus. AG may be a potential drug in the prevention and treatment of influenza and related diseases.

The protective role of maternal genetic immunization on maternal-fetal health and welfare

Pregnancy is a critical period associated with alterations in physiologic, biologic, and immunologic processes, which can affect maternal-fetal health through development of several infectious diseases. At birth, neonates have an immature immune system that makes them more susceptible to severe viral infections and diseases. For this reason, different maternal nutritional and immunization interventions have been used to improve the immune and health status of the mother and her neonate through passive immunity. Here, we reviewed the protective role of maternal immunization with different types of vaccines, especially genetic vaccines, during pregnancy in maternal-fetal health, immune response, colostrum quality, immune response, and anti-oxidative status. For this purpose, we have used different scientific databases (PubMed and Google Scholar) and other official web pages. We customized the search period range from the year 2000 to 2023 using the key words "maternal immunization" OR "gestation period/pregnancy" OR "genetic vaccination" OR "maternal-fetal health" OR "micronutrients" OR "neonatal immunity" "oxidative stress" OR "colostrum quality". The evidence demonstrated that inactivated or killed vaccines produced significant immune protection in the mother and fetus. Furthermore, most recent studies have suggested that the use of genetic vaccines (mRNA and DNA) during pregnancy is efficient at triggering the immune response in mother and neonate without the risk of undesired pregnancy outcomes. However, factors such as maternal redox balance, nutritional status, and the timing of immunization play essential roles in regulating immune response inflammatory status, antioxidant capacity, and the welfare of both the pregnant mother and her newborn.

Anti-Inflammatory Activity of 1,6,7-Trihydroxy-2-(1,1-dimethyl-2-propenyl)-3-methoxyxanthone Isolated from Cudrania tricuspidata via NF-κB, MAPK, and HO-1 Signaling Pathways in Lipopolysaccharide-Stimulated RAW 264.7 and BV2 Cells

Neuroinflammation activated by microglia affects inflammatory pain development. This study aimed to explore the anti-inflammatory properties and mechanisms of 1,6,7-trihydroxy-2-(1,1-dimethyl-2-propenyl)-3-methoxyxanthone (THMX) from Cudrania tricuspidata in microglia activation-mediated inflammatory pain. In RAW 264.7 and BV2 cells, THMX has been shown to reduce lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and pro-inflammatory mediators and cytokines, including nitric oxide (NO), prostaglandin (PG) E2, interleukin (IL)-6, and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α). THMX also decreased LPS-induced phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and the activation of p65 nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB). Interestingly, THMX also activated heme oxygenase (HO)-1 expression. These findings suggest that THMX is a promising biologically active compound against inflammation through preventing MAPKs and NF-ĸB and activating HO-1 signaling pathways.

Exploring the therapeutic efficacy of Chlorella pyrenoidosa peptides in ameliorating Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is one of the neurodegenerative disorders, the hallmarks of which include deposits of extracellular beta-amyloid (Aβ) as well as intracellular tau neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) tangles. With disease progression, neuronal apoptosis combined with cerebral atrophy occurs, leading to cognitive impairment and long-term memory loss. Recently, Chlorella species have been identified as a functional food and are being explored for the prevention of various diseases widely studied to prevent or treat many neurodegenerative diseases. Hence, we for the first time investigated the neuroprotective effects of Chlorella pyrenoidosa short-chain peptides (CPPs) i.e. <1 kDa, 1-3 kDa, 3-10 kDa, and >10 kDa on the in vitro and in vivo neuronal injury models. Our in vitro results showed that CPP with a molecular weight of 1-3 kDa and 3-10 kDa could elevate the survival rate of Aβ_1-42 or l-Glutamic acid-injured N2A cells. These treatments also inhibited Aβ and tau NFTs in N2A cells and prevented progressive neuronal cellular damage by suppressing inflammatory cytokines such as PGE2, iNOS, IL-6, TNF-α, COX-2, IL-1β, TGF-β1, and NF-κB. Further, our in vivo Aβ_1-42-induced AD mice model demonstrated that 1-3 kDa or 3-10 kDa CPP could improve spatial cognition and learning memory. We also observed a decreased cell loss ratio in CA1-CA3 hippocampal regions. Taken together, our findings imply that CPPs may exert their anti-AD impact through anti-inflammatory, and anti-amyloid activities via reducing APP and tau NFT.

Forsythoside A regulates autophagy and apoptosis through the AMPK/mTOR/ULK1 pathway and alleviates inflammatory damage in MAC-T cells

Dairy cow mastitis is the most common disease encountered in dairy farming. Lipopolysaccharides (LPS), among the major virulence-related factors produced by Escherichia coli, stimulate mammary gland inflammation and cause its damage, thereby affecting milk yield and quality. Forsythoside A (FTA) is among the main active components of forsythia. Recent pharmacological studies have demonstrated that FTA possesses anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antioxidant, and other biological activities. This study investigated the effects of the FTA-activated AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling pathway on LPS-induced autophagy, apoptosis, and inflammatory damage in bovine mammary epithelial (MAC-T) cells. Cell activity was measured using the Cell Counting Kit 8. Moreover, real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blot analyses were used to detect expression levels of autophagic, apoptotic, and inflammatory factors, as well as those of oxidative stress-related genes and proteins. The annexin-FITC/PI assay and immunofluorescence assay were used to detect the apoptosis rate and LC3B expression, respectively. We found that FTA attenuated LPS-induced inhibition of MAC-T cell proliferation, reduced mRNA expression of related inflammatory factors, relieved oxidative stress, and exerted protective effects on MAC-T cells. Additionally, FTA activated autophagy, attenuated inhibition of autophagy flow, and inhibited apoptosis. Autophagy and apoptosis were mainly regulated through the AMPK/mTOR/ULK1 pathway. The aforementioned FTA-induced effects were inhibited by the administration of Compound C (CC; an AMPK inhibitor). Taken together, these results indicate that FTA can alleviate LPS-induced inflammation and oxidative stress in MAC-T cells, attenuate impairments in autophagy, and inhibit apoptosis. However, these effects were blocked by CC, which suggests that FTA inhibits LPS-induced autophagy, apoptosis, and inflammatory damage in MAC-T cells by activating the AMPK pathway.

Forsythiaside A ameliorates sepsis-induced acute kidney injury via anti-inflammation and antiapoptotic effects by regulating endoplasmic reticulum stress

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Sepsis is a systemic inflammatory response syndrome caused by an infection in the body, and accompanying acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common complication of sepsis. It is associated with increased mortality and morbidity. Forsythia Fructus, the dried fruit of Forsythia suspensa (Thunb.) Vahl, is a commonly used traditional Chinese medicine.

AIMS OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to elucidate the protective effect of Forsythiaside A (FTA) on sepsis-induced AKI by downregulating inflammatory and apoptotic responses, and exploring its underlying mechanism.

METHODS

Septic AKI was induced through intraperitoneal injection of LPS (10 mg/kg) using male C57BL/6 mice and pretreated with FTA or control saline. First, we assessed the degree of renal injury by creatinine, blood urea nitrogen measurement, and HE staining of renal tissue; secondly, the inflammation and apoptosis were measured byELISA, qPCR, and TUNEL immunofluorescence; finally, the mechanism was explored by computer molecular docking and Western blot.

RESULTS

Our data showed that FTA markedly attenuated pathological kidney injuries, alleviated the elevation of serum BUN and Creatinine, suggesting the renal protective effect of FTA. Notably, FTA significantly inhibited the renal expression of proinflammatory cytokine IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α both at protein and mRNA levels and attenuated cell apoptosis in the kidney, as measured by caspase-3 immunoblot and TUNEL assay, indicating its anti-Inflammation and antiapoptotic properties. Mechanistically, administration of LPS resulted in robust endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress responses in the kidney, evidenced by glucose-regulated protein 78(GRP78) upregulation, protein kinase RNA-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK) activation, eukaryotic initiation factor 2 alpha (elF2α) phosphorylation and C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP) overexpression, which could be significantly blocked by FTA pretreatment. Dynamic simulation and molecular docking were performed to provide further insight.

CONCLUSIONS

Collectively, our data suggest that FTA ameliorates sepsis-induced acute kidney injury via its anti-inflammation and antiapoptotic properties by regulating PERK signaling dependent ER stress responses.

Cellular mechanism of action of forsythiaside for the treatment of diabetic kidney disease

Background: Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) becomes the leading cause of death for end-stage renal disease, whereas the potential mechanism is unclear and effective therapy is still rare. Our study was designed to investigate the cellular mechanism of Forsythiaside against DKD. Materials and Methods: The targets of Forsythiaside and the DKD-related targets were obtained from databases. The overlapping targets in these two sets were regarded as potential targets for alleviation of DKD by Forsythiaside. The targets of diabetic podocytopathy and tubulopathy were also detected to clarify the mechanism of Forsythiaside ameliorating DKD from the cellular level. Results: Our results explored that PRKCA and RHOA were regarded as key therapeutic targets of Forsythiaside with excellent binding affinity for treating DKD podocytopathy. Enrichment analysis suggested the underlying mechanism was mainly focused on the oxidative stress and mTOR signaling pathway. The alleviated effects of Forsythiaside on the reactive oxidative species accumulation and PRKCA and RHOA proteins upregulation in podocytes were also confirmed. Conclusion: The present study elucidates that Forsythiaside exerts potential treatment against DKD which may act directly RHOA and PRKCA target by suppressing the oxidative stress pathway in podocytes. And Forsythiaside could be regarded as one of the candidate drugs dealing with DKD in future experimental or clinical researches.

Forsythiaside A improves Influenza A virus infection through TLR7 signaling pathway in the lungs of mice

Background

Influenza A virus infection due to drug resistance and side effects of the conventional antiviral drugs yet remains a serious public health threat for humans and animals. Forsythiaside A is an effective ingredient isolated from the Chinese herbal medicine forsythia. It has various pharmacological effects and has a good therapeutic effect against a variety of infectious diseases. This study aimed to further explore the immunological mechanism of Forsythiaside A in the treatment of influenza virus-infected mice and its effect on the Toll-like receptor 7 (TLR7) signaling pathway in the lungs of these mice.

Methods

C57/BL6J mice and TLR7−/− mice were infected with the FM1 strains (H1N1 and A/FM/1/4) of the Influenza A virus. Each group of experimental mice were divided into the mock, virus, oseltamivir, and Forsythiaside A groups. Weight change, lung index change, and the mRNA and protein expression levels of key factors in the TLR7 signaling pathway were detected. Flow cytometry was used to detect the changes in the Th1/Th2 and Th17/Treg ratios.

Results

After infection with the Influenza A virus, the weight loss of C57/BL6J mice treated with forsythoside A and oseltamivir decreased, and the pathological tissue sections showed that the inflammatory damage was reduced. The expression levels of the key factors, TLR7, myeloid differentiation factor 88(Myd88), and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) in the TLR7 signaling pathway were significantly reduced. Flow cytometry showed that Th1/Th2 and Th17/Treg ratios decreased after Forsythiaside A treatment. In the TLR7−/− mice, there was no significant change after Forsythiaside A treatment in the virus group.

Conclusions

Forsythiaside A affects the TLR7 signaling pathway in mouse lung immune cells and reduces the inflammatory response caused by the Influenza A virus FM1 strain in mouse lungs.

Antibacterial and Anti-Inflammatory Potential of Chinese Medicinal Herbs: Lonicerae flos, Lonicerae japonicae flos, Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi, and Forsythia suspensa

Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) represents a potent, safe, and efficacious reservoir of treatment options against an array of microbial infections and inflammatory diseases. It has a long history of positive clinical outcomes with minimal or no side effects while enhancing and bolstering the host's protection against infections. With its unique ability to prevent, treat, and manage a wide range of diseased conditions, CHM has been successfully practiced in China for thousands of years. In the modern medical era, where harsh therapeutic drugs and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) present a significant challenge, CHM warrants further exploration. The present review highlights and focuses on 4 major CHM-based herbs, that is, ( Lonicerae flos [ LF] , Lonicerae japonicae flos [ LJF] , Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi [ SBG] , and Forsythia suspensa [ FS]) in terms of their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory efficacies. A detailed literature survey was done by the team using a systematic electronic search from PubMed, Science Direct, Google Scholar, Research Gate, books, etc. This was followed by data collecting, pertinent data extraction, in-depth analysis, and composing the final review. Each herb has been discussed in detail describing its mechanism adopted and the bioactive components involved in alleviating bacterial infections and inflammatory damage. Further, proof of efficacy by detailing the major past studies and major findings has been discussed for each of the 4 herbs. This review will give the scientific community the opportunity to update their knowledge on the subject, which is crucial for heralding the process of bringing CHM-based medicines closer to clinical development given the area of alternative medicine's rapid advancements.

Dietary Forsythia suspensa extracts supplementation improves antioxidant status, anti-inflammatory functions, meat fatty acid deposition, and intestinal microbial community in finishing pigs

This study aimed to determine the effects of Forsythia suspensa extracts (FSE) on performance, antioxidant status, inflammatory cytokines, meat quality, meat fatty acid composition, and gut microbial community in finishing pigs. Sixty-four pigs [Duroc × (Landrace × Yorkshire)] with an average initial body weight of 88.68 kg were randomly allotted to two dietary treatments, with eight replicate pens per treatment (four pens were barrows and four pens were gilts), four pigs per pen. The dietary treatments included a corn-soybean meal basal diet (CON) and an FS diet (basal diet + 100 mg/kg FSE; FS). Compared with CON, pigs fed FSE showed enhanced (P < 0.05) saturated fatty acid (SFA)/polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) ratio, reduced (P < 0.05) lightness, and n-6/n-3 PUFA ratio, as well as tended to increase C20:5n3 content in the longissimus dorsi muscle. Moreover, pigs fed FSE showed decreased (P < 0.05) serum cortisol and tumor nuclear factor-α contents, and increased (P < 0.05) serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase contents compared with CON. These pigs also tended to have increased serum total protein and immunoglobulin G contents, and decreased serum low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and interleukin-1β contents compared with CON. In the colon, pigs fed FSE had a higher (P < 0.05) relative abundance of Bifidobacteriales at the order level, Lactobacillaceae and Bifidobacteriaceae at the family level, as well as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium at the genus level compared with CON. In conclusion, dietary Forsythia suspensa extract supplementation effectively improved antioxidant status and anti-inflammatory functions, as well as modulated meat fatty acid composition, and gut microbial community in finishing pigs.

Better detoxifying effect of ripe forsythiae fructus over green forsythiae fructus and the potential mechanisms involving bile acids metabolism and gut microbiota

Forsythiae Fructus (FF), the fruit of Forsythia suspensa (Thunb.) Vahl. (Lianqiao), is one of the most fundamental herbs in Traditional Chinese Medicines (TCM), mainly due to its heat-clearing and detoxifying effects. There are two types of FF, the greenish fruits that start to ripen (GF) and the yellow fruits that are fully ripe (RF), called “Qingqiao” and “Laoqiao” referred to the Chinese Pharmacopoeia, respectively. It undergoes a complex series of changes during the maturation of FF. However, the clinical uses and preparation of phytopharmaceuticals of FF have not been distinguished to date. Moreover, there is limited information on the study of the difference in pharmacological activity between RF and GF. In this study, a rat model of bile duct ligation (BDL)-induced cholestasis was used to compare the differences in their effects. RF was found to have better results than GF in addressing toxic bile acids (BAs) accumulation and related pathological conditions caused by BDL. The underlying mechanism may be related to the interventions of gut microbiota. The results of the present study suggest that the better detoxifying effect of RF than GF may be indirectly exerted through the regulation of gut microbiota and thus the improvement of BAs metabolism.

Forsythiasides: A review of the pharmacological effects

Forsythiasides are a kind of phenylethanol glycosides existing in Forsythia suspensa (Thunb.) Vahl, which possesses extensive pharmacological activities. According to the different groups connected to the nucleus, forsythiasides can be divided into A-K. In recent years, numerous investigations have been carried out on forsythiasides A, B, C, D, E, and I, which have the effects of cardiovascular protection, anti-inflammation, anti-oxidation, neuroprotection, et al. Mechanistically, forsythiasides regulate toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)/myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88)/nuclear factor kappaB (NF-κB), nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and other signaling pathways, as well as the expression of related cytokines and kinases. Further exploration and development may unearth more treatment potential of forsythiasides and provide more evidence for their clinical applications. In summary, forsythiasides have high development and application value.

Maternal Dietary Forsythia suspensa Extract Supplementation Induces Changes in Offspring Antioxidant Status, Inflammatory Responses, Intestinal Development, and Microbial Community of Sows

This experiment aims to investigate the effect of maternal diet supplemented with Forsythia suspensa extract (FSE) on the performance, antioxidant status, inflammatory responses, intestinal development, and microbial community of sows. A total of 24 gestating sows (Landrace × Yorkshire) were assigned to 2 treatments with 12 sows per treatment. From d 107 of gestation to d 21 of lactation, sows were supplemented with a basal diet as control (CON) or an FSE diet (basal diet + 100 mg/kg FSE). Compared with CON, sows fed FSE showed lower (P &lt; 0.05) wean-to-estrus interval, body weight loss, and higher (P &lt; 0.05) average daily gain of suckling piglet. Sows fed FSE had reduced (P &lt; 0.05) serum malondialdehyde (MDA) content and enhanced (P &lt; 0.05) catalase and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) contents at farrowing and weaning compared with CON. The suckling piglets of FSE-fed sows had increased (P &lt; 0.05) mRNA expressions of nuclear factor erythroid-2 related factor 2, heme oxygenase-1 in the liver, and lower (P &lt; 0.05) serum MDA content on d 0, 7, and 14 of lactation. Sows fed FSE had lower (P &lt; 0.05) serum tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-8 (IL-8) contents at farrowing and reduced (P &lt; 0.05) serum IL-6 and IL-8 contents at weaning compared with CON. Piglets from FSE-fed sows had enhanced (P ≤ 0.05) villus height and villus height to crypt depth ratio in the jejunum, and higher (P &lt; 0.05) protein expression of Occludin in jejunal mucosa compared with CON. Sows fed FSE tended to have higher (P = 0.09) relative abundance of Lactobacillus at genus level in feces at weaning compared with CON. Our results showed maternal diet supplemented with FSE in lactating sows could effectively induce improvement of performance, antioxidant status, anti-inflammatory function, intestinal morphology, barrier function, and microbial community.

Forsythiaside A alleviated carbon tetrachloride-induced liver fibrosis by modulating gut microbiota composition to increase short-chain fatty acids and restoring bile acids metabolism disorder

Liver fibrosis is a chronic and progressive disease with complex pathogenesis related to bile acids (BAs) and gut microbiota. Forsythiaside A (FTA), isolated from the traditional Chinese medicine Forsythiae Fructus (Lian Qiao), is a natural hepatoprotective agent. The purpose of this study was to investigate the protective effect of FTA on carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄)-induced liver fibrosis in mice. Liver fibrosis was induced in mice by intraperitoneal injection of 2 mL/kg CCl₄ three times a week for 4 weeks. FTA attenuated CCl₄-induced liver fibrosis in mice, which was proved by the results of Masson and Sirius red staining, liver hydroxyproline, hyaluronic acid, laminin, type III procollagen, and type IV collagen assays. FTA inhibited hepatic stellate cell activation, and reduced hepatic inflammation and oxidative stress in mice treated with CCl₄. What's more, FTA ameliorated CCl₄-induced gut dysbiosis, maintained intestinal barrier function, increased the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), and improved endotoxemia, as manifested by decreased serum lipopolysaccharide levels and increased expression of ileal tight junction proteins. Besides, FTA can modulate the genes related to bile acid metabolism to alter the distribution of fecal BAs in fibrotic mice. In a word, FTA can improve liver fibrosis by inhibiting inflammation and oxidative stress, regulating gut microbiota and BA metabolism, and increasing the content of SCFAs. The results of this study provided an important reference for the study on the mechanisms by which natural products prevent liver fibrosis.

Metabolome analysis of genus Forsythia related constituents in Forsythia suspensa leaves and fruits using UPLC-ESI-QQQ-MS/MS technique

Forsythia suspensa is a traditional Chinese herb. Its numerous metabolites have important roles, as they possessed a wide range of biological activities. This study explored the accumulations of F. suspensa metabolites by performing widely targeted metabolomic analysis. The metabolites were studied at four stages of fruit development. Metabolites in the fruits and leaves of F. suspensa during fruit development included phenolic acids, flavonoids, lipids, lignans and coumarins, amino acids and their derivatives, terpenes, organic acids, nucleotides and their derivatives, alkaloids, quinones, steroids, and tannins. Fourteen Forsythia related metabolites were detected. Their contents varied among the developmental stages. Statistically significant correlations were found between the levels of forsythoside B and 11-methyl-forsythide, and forsythialan B and phillygenin, in both leaves and fruits. According to the correlation analysis between metabolites, Forsythia related metabolites were divided into two classes and five subclasses. In total, 33 compounds presented significant correlations in both fruits and leaves, which indicated the potential relationship in the synthesis of Forsythia related metabolites. Forsythialan B and phillygenin were both negatively correlated with L-valine, while Z-6,7-epoxyligustilid was positively correlated with both compounds. The quality control compounds forsythiaside A and phillyrin were positively and negatively correlated with uracil, respectively. These metabolomics results may facilitate the biosynthesis of Forsythia related metabolites.

Polyphenol Rich Forsythia suspensa Extract Alleviates DSS-Induced Ulcerative Colitis in Mice through the Nrf2-NLRP3 Pathway

This study systematically evaluated the effect of Forsythia suspensa extract on dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced ulcerative colitis (UC) and determined its mechanism of action. The results showed that Forsythia suspensa extract significantly inhibited DSS-induced UC in mice. In vivo mechanistic studies revealed that Forsythia suspensa extract relieved the symptoms of colitis by enhancing antioxidant activity and inhibiting pyroptosis. Further in vitro experiments on the mechanism of Forsythia suspensa showed that it reduced the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in J774A.1 cells. We found that Forsythia suspensa extract enhanced cellular antioxidation activity and inhibited pyroptosis. After silencing NLRP3, it was found to play an important role in pyroptosis. In addition, after Nrf2 was silenced, the inhibitory effect of Forsythia suspensa extract on cell pyroptosis was eliminated, indicating an interaction between Nrf2 and NLRP3. Metabonomics revealed that Forsythia suspensa extract significantly improved metabolic function in colitis mice by reversing the abnormal changes in the levels of 9 metabolites. The main metabolic pathways involved were glutathione metabolism, aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis and linoleic acid metabolism. In conclusion, we found that Forsythia suspensa extract significantly alleviated DSS-induced UC injury through the Nrf2-NLRP3 pathway and relieved metabolic dysfunction.

Acteoside, the Main Bioactive Compound in Osmanthus fragrans Flowers, Palliates Experimental Colitis in Mice by Regulating the Gut Microbiota

The present study investigated the effects of Osmanthus fragrans flowers and acteoside on murine colitis and the underlying mechanisms. The O. fragrans flower extract (OFE) and acteoside were administrated to chemically induced colitic mice. The results showed that OFE or acteoside ameliorates intestinal inflammation, oxidative stress, and activation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) in colitic mice. The dysbiosis of the gut microbiome in colitic mice was also partly restored by OFE or acteoside, which was characterized by the alteration of the gut microbiome structure and the enrichment of beneficial bacteria (Akkermansia muciniphila and Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron). Dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced gut metabolome dysfunctions (e.g., sphingosine metabolism and amino acids metabolism) in colitic mice were also partly restored by OFE and acteoside. A fecal microbiota (FM) transplantation study suggested that, compared with the FM from the normal diet-dosed donor mice, the FM from the OFE- or acteoside-dosed donor mice significantly suppressed colitic symptoms.

Maternal Nutrition During Late Gestation and Lactation: Association With Immunity and the Inflammatory Response in the Offspring

The immature immune system at birth and environmental stress increase the risk of infection in nursing pigs. Severe infection subsequently induces intestinal and respiratory diseases and even cause death of pigs. The nutritional and physiological conditions of sows directly affect the growth, development and disease resistance of the fetus and newborn. Many studies have shown that providing sows with nutrients such as functional oligosaccharides, oils, antioxidants, and trace elements could regulate immunity and the inflammatory response of piglets. Here, we reviewed the positive effects of certain nutrients on milk quality, immunoglobulin inflammatory response, oxidative stress, and intestinal microflora of sows, and further discuss the effects of these nutrients on immunity and the inflammatory response in the offspring.

Forsythiaside A alleviates methotrexate-induced intestinal mucositis in rats by modulating the NLRP3 signaling pathways

Most chemotherapeutic drugs can kill the tumor cells, but also cause a vast damage to body, such as intestinal mucositis (IM). The present study was design to find out the effect of Forsythiaside A (FTA) on chemotherapeutic-induced IM in rats. Briefly, for 3 consecutive days, male Sprague-Dawley rats were treated with 7 mg / kg methotrexate (MTX) to establish IM and simultaneously administered with 40 or 80 mg / kg FTA for 7 days. Our results showed that the final body weight and daily food intake were increased, and the disease activity index was reduced in the MTX group after FTA treatment. The MTX group showed the pathological alterations like the inflammatory cells infiltration, the mucosal layer destruction, glands expansion, intestinal villi structure disorder and goblet cells reduction, while we found that 80 mg / kg FTA treatment displayed evident reversal effects. ELISA further suggested that TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-18 levels in serum in MTX-induced rats were reduced after 80 mg / kg FTA treatment. Moreover, FTA decreased the number of leukocytes, neutrophils and lymphocytes in peripheral blood. Western blot and immunofluorescence results indicated that the expression levels of NLRP3, cleaved caspase 1, cleaved IL-1β and CD68 positive rate were down-regulated in MTX-induced rats after 80 mg / kg FTA intervention. The findings of the current study suggested that FTA effectively inhibited MTX-induced IM in rats by attenuating the activation of the NLRP3 signaling pathways.

Phillyrin Prevents Neuroinflammation-Induced Blood-Brain Barrier Damage Following Traumatic Brain Injury via Altering Microglial Polarization

Background: Phillyrin (Phi) is the main polyphenolic compound found in Forsythia suspensa. Recent studies have revealed that Phi has potent antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects. However, whether Phi could relieve blood-brain barrier (BBB) damage following traumatic brain injury (TBI) remains unknown. Materials and Methods: Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was used to activate primary microglia, which were then treated with different doses of Phi or the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPARγ) antagonist (GW9662). CCK-8 assay was used for evaluating cell viability, and the cytokines (including IL-1β, IL-6, TNFα, IL-4, IL-10, and TGFβ), microglial phenotypic markers (iNOS, COX2, and CD86 for "M1" polarization; Arg1, Ym1, and CD206 for "M2" polarization), PPARγ, and NF-κB were determined by RT-PCR, Western blot, or cellular immunofluorescence. Primary cultured mouse brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMECs) were stimulated by the condition medium (CM) from microglia. The cell viability, angiogenesis, and tight junction of BMECs were determined via CCK-8 assay, tube formation assay, and Western blot (for detecting MMP3, MMP9, ZO1, claudin-5, and occludin). Furthermore, the mouse TBI model was constructed and treated with Phi and/or GW9662. The BBB integrity was evaluated by H&E staining, Evans blue staining, and tissue immunofluorescence. Results: Phi markedly restrained the pro-inflammatory ("M1" state) cytokines and promoted anti-inflammatory ("M2" polarization) cytokines in LPS-mediated microglia. Phi mitigated "M1" polarization and promoted "M2" polarization of microglia via enhancing PPARγ and inhibiting the NF-κB pathway. The PPARγ antagonist GW9662 significantly repressed Phi-mediated anti-inflammatory effects. Meanwhile, Phi enhanced the viability, tube formation ability, and cell junction of BMECs. In the TBI mouse model, Phi promoted "M2" polarization, whereas it repressed the "M1" polarization of microglia. In addition, Phi reduced TBI-mediated BBB damage. However, the protective effects of Phi were reversed mainly by GW9662 treatment. Conclusion: Phi prevents BBB damage via inhibiting the neuroinflammation of microglia through the PPARγ/NF-κB pathway, which provides a potential therapeutic drug against TBI.

Walnut peptide WEKPPVSH in alleviating oxidative stress and inflammation in lipopolysaccharide-activated BV-2 microglia via the Nrf2/HO-1 and NF-κB/p38 MAPK pathways

The peptide WEKPPVSH from walnut protein hydrolyzate was used to evaluate the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory protective effect on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated BV-2 microglia and its possible mechanism. The results indicated that WEKPPVSH significantly decreased nitric oxide (NO) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in a dose-dependent manner, and significantly up-regulated superoxide dismutase and catalase activities (P < 0.01). Results of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) showed that WEKPPVSH significantly mitigated the secretion of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) (P < 0.01). Immunofluorescence analysis exhibited that WEKPPVSH down-regulated p65 translocation to the cell nucleus. Western blotting showed that WEKPPVSH up-regulated the expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor (Nrf2) and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), and down-regulated the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), p-IκB/IκB, p-p65/p65 and p-p38/p38. In summary, WEKPPVSH might protect against oxidative stress and inflammation in LPS-stimulated BV-2 microglia by enhancing the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway and blocking the nuclear factor-κB/p38 mitogen - activated protein kinase (NF-κB/p38 MAPK) signaling pathway. The results provided an experimental basis for the research and development of walnut peptide products.

Effects of dietary Forsythia suspensa extract supplementation to lactating sows and nursery pigs on post-weaning performance, antioxidant capacity, nutrient digestibility, immunoglobulins, and intestinal health

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of dietary Forsythia suspensa extract (FSE) supplementation to lactating sows and nursery pigs on post-weaning performance, antioxidant capacity, immunoglobulins, and intestinal health. Based on backfat, body weight (BW), and parity, 24 gestating sows (Landrace × Yorkshire) with average parity of 3.38 ± 0.61 and BW of 234 ± 6.81 kg were allotted into two dietary treatments (control vs. 100 mg/kg FSE) with 12 sows per treatment from day 107 of gestation to day 21 of lactation. After weaning, based on the initial BW and source litter, 192 nursery pigs (Duroc × [Landrace × Yorkshire], average BW of 6.98 ± 0.32 kg, weaned at day 21) were allotted into four dietary treatments with eight replicate pens per treatment, six pigs per pen for a 4-wk study. The treatments included the following: 1) CC (sows and their piglets both fed control diet); 2) CF (sows fed control diet and their piglets fed FSE diet [containing 100 mg/kg FSE]); 3) FC (sows fed FSE diet and their piglets fed control diet); and 4) FF (sows and their piglets both fed FSE diet). The MIXED procedures of SAS for a split-plot arrangement with sow diet as the whole plot and nursery diet as split plot were used to analyze the data. After weaning, piglets from FSE-fed sows had improved (P < 0.05) average daily gain and feed efficiency, and lower (P < 0.05) diarrhea rate in overall (day 1 to 28) compared with those from sows fed control diet. Piglets from FSE-fed sows also had higher (P < 0.05) contents of immunoglobulin G (IgG), growth hormone, superoxide dismutase (SOD), total antioxidant capacity in serum, villus height in ileum, and villus height to crypt depth ratio in jejunum, as well as lower (P < 0.05) content of malondialdehyde (MDA) in serum and crypt depth in ileum compared with those from sows fed control diet. Piglets fed FSE during nursery had increased (P < 0.05) concentrations of IgG, SOD, and catalase, and decreased (P < 0.05) MDA and tumor nuclear factor-α levels in serum compared with those fed control diet during nursery. Piglets from FC group had increased (P < 0.05) protein expression of occludin in jejunal mucosa and relative abundance of Lactobacillus on genus level in colon compared with those from CC group. In conclusion, for the performance and intestinal health, diets supplemented with FSE during lactation phase seemed more efficient to alleviate weaning stress than the nursery phase. In terms of the antioxidant status and immunoglobulins, FSE supplemented in both phases were efficient for nursery pigs.

Forsythia Fruit Prevents Fulminant Hepatitis in Mice and Ameliorates Inflammation in Murine Macrophages

Forsythia Fruit (FF), the fruit of Forsythia suspensa, has been used since ancient times as an herbal medication in East Asia to treat inflammation, gonorrhea, and pharyngitis. However, the efficacy of FF against liver damage due to inflammation has not been studied. Here, we explored the protective effects of FF in a mouse hepatitis model induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS)/D-galactosamine (GalN) treatment. We measured inflammatory cytokine and aminotransferase levels in mouse blood and analyzed the effects of FF on inflammatory gene and protein expression levels in liver tissue. Our results show that FF treatment effectively lowers inflammatory cytokine and serum aminotransferase levels in mice and inhibits the expression of hepatic cytokine mRNA and inflammatory proteins. Furthermore, treatment with FF activated the antioxidant pathway HO-1/Nrf-2 and suppressed severe histological alteration in the livers of LPS/D-GalN-treated mice. Further investigation of the effects of FF on inflammatory reactions in LPS-stimulated macrophages showed that pretreatment with FF inhibits inflammatory mediator secretion and activation of inflammatory mechanisms both in a mouse macrophage RAW 264.7 cells and in primary peritoneal macrophages. These results show that FF has potential worth as a candidate for the treatment of fulminant inflammatory reactions and subsequent liver injury.

GYY4137 protected the integrity of the blood-brain barrier via activation of the Nrf2/ARE pathway in mice with sepsis

Injury to the blood-brain barrier (BBB) plays a vital role in sepsis-associated encephalopathy (SAE), which is one of the most common complications of sepsis. GYY4137, a new synthetic compound of hydrogen sulfide (H₂ S), has extensive biological benefits. In this study, we focused on the protective effects of GYY4137 on the BBB in septic mice and the underlying mechanisms. The results suggested that whether administrated at the same time or 3 hours after LPS injection, GYY4137 both significantly alleviated the clinical symptoms and the long-term prognosis. Besides, GYY4137 improved the pathological abnormalities of septic mice. Moreover, the degradation of tight junctions in the BBB was considerably inhibited by GYY4137. In addition, GYY4137 significantly attenuated inflammation and apoptosis in the brain. Furthermore, GYY4137 activated the Nrf2/ARE pathway through the sulfhydrylation of Keap1 and inhibited oxidative stress. ML385, the specific inhibitor of Nrf2, significantly reversed the protective effects of GYY4137 in sepsis mice. In conclusion, this study indicated that through the sulfhydrylation of Keap1, GYY4137 activated the Nrf2/ARE pathway and exerted anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic and antioxidant effects in septic mice that consequently protected the integrity of the BBB and improved the clinical outcome of sepsis. Our findings suggest that GYY4137 might be a promising agent for the treatment of SAE.

Screening for Anti-Inflammation Quality Markers of Lianhua Qingwen Capsule Based on Network Pharmacology, UPLC, and Biological Activity

Influenza is a common respiratory infectious disease. In China, Lianhua Qingwen capsule (LHQWC), a drug with significant clinical efficacy and few side effects, is commonly used to treat influenza. However, the composition of LHQWC is complicated, and currently used quality control methods cannot ensure its consistency. In this study, combined with its clinical efficacy, the targets of LHQWC were screened using network pharmacology. Then, anti-inflammation quality markers of LHQWC were screened and judged by combined chemical with biological evaluation. Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) was identified as one of the main targets of the anti-inflammatory activity of LHQWC. The rate of inhibition of COX-2 by different batches of LHQWC was determined. Furthermore, seven components of LHQWC were identified. The potential quality markers were screened by spectral-effect relationship. As a result, chlorogenic acid, isochlorogenic acid B, and isochlorogenic acid C were identified and confirmed as anti-inflammatory quality markers of LHQWC. We hope that these findings provide a scientific basis for the accurate quality control of LHQWC and serve as a reference for the quality control of other drugs.

A review of pharmacological and pharmacokinetic properties of Forsythiaside A

Traditional Chinese medicine plays a significant role in the treatment of various diseases and has attracted increasing attention for clinical applications. Forsythiae Fructus, the dried fruit of Forsythia suspensa (Thunb.) Vahl, is a widely used Chinese medicinal herb in clinic for its extensive pharmacological activities. Forsythiaside A is the main active index component isolated from Forsythiae Fructus and possesses prominent bioactivities. Modern pharmacological studies have confirmed that Forsythiaside A exhibits significant activities in treating various diseases, including inflammation, virus infection, neurodegeneration, oxidative stress, liver injury, and bacterial infection. In this review, the pharmacological activities of Forsythiaside A have been comprehensively reviewed and summarized. According to the data, Forsythiaside A shows remarkable anti-inflammation, antivirus, neuroprotection, antioxidant, hepatoprotection, and antibacterial activities through regulating multiple signaling transduction pathways such as NF-κB, MAPK, JAK/STAT, Nrf2, RLRs, TRAF, TLR7, and ER stress. In addition, the toxicity and pharmacokinetic properties of Forsythiaside A are also discussed in this review, thus providing a solid foundation and evidence for further studies to explore novel effective drugs from Chinese medicine monomers.

Forsythiaside a plays an anti-inflammatory role in LPS-induced mastitis in a mouse model by modulating the MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways

Forsythiaside A, a major bioactive component extracted from Forsythiae fructus, possesses multiple biological properties, especially anti-inflammatory properties. In the present study, the anti-inflammatory effect of forsythiaside A was investigated in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute mastitis in mice. Our results showed that the expression levels of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, p38 MAPK, IκBα, and NF-κB p65 in the LPS group were all up-regulated, and obvious pathological changes were observed by sectioning. Compared with those in the LPS group, the expression levels of the above factors were significantly reduced, and the inflammation symptoms were also significantly reduced by section observation after forsythiaside A intervention. These results indicated that forsythiaside A effectively inhibited LPS-induced mammary inflammation in mice by attenuating the activation of the NF-κB and p38 MAPK signaling pathways.

Phillygenin inhibited LPS-induced RAW 264.7 cell inflammation by NF-κB pathway

Inflammation is a common pathological phenomenon when homeostasis is seriously disturbed. Phillygenin (PHI), a lignin component isolated from Forsythiae Fructus, has shown a good anti-inflammatory effect. However, the mechanisms of PHI on anti-inflammation have not yet been systematically elucidated. In this study, the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) - induced RAW264.7 cell inflammation model was established to investigate mechanisms of PHI on inflammation. The effect of PHI on the release of IL-1β and PGE2 inflammatory factors induced by LPS was detected by ELISA, and the mRNA expressions of IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α were detected by RT-qPCR. Proteomics studied the signaling pathways that might be affected by PHI and molecular docking technology was subsequently used to study the possible targets on proteomic screened pathways. Western blot was performed ultimately to detect progressive changes in protein expression on the related pathway. Our research showed that PHI significantly inhibited the robust increase of IL-1β and PGE2 and lowered the transcriptional level of inflammatory genes including IL-6, IL-1β and PGE2 in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells. Proteomics results indicated that PHI was involved in the regulation of multiple signaling pathways. Molecular docking results indicated that PHI had an affinity for most proteins in NF-κB pathway. Western blot analysis proved that PHI inhibited LPS-induced NF-κB pathway activation. On the whole, PHI inhibited the activation of NF-κB pathway, thereby inhibiting the expression of related inflammatory genes and the release of cytokines, and showed a remarkable anti-inflammatory effect.

Role of MicroRNAs in Protective Effects of Forsythoside A Against Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Inflammation in Bovine Endometrial Stromal Cells

Bovine endometrial stromal cells (bESCs) are exposed to a complex environment of bacteria and viruses due to the rupture of epithelial cells after delivery. Inflammatory responses are elicited by the activation of host pattern recognition receptors through pathogen-related molecules such as lipopolysaccharides (LPS) on the cell membrane. Forsythoside A (FTA) is a major active constituent of Forsythia suspensa (Thunb.) Vahl. is a flowering plant widely employed as a traditional Chinese herbal medicine to treat various inflammatory diseases such as nephritis, eye swelling, scabies, ulcers, and mastitis; however, the molecular mechanisms underlying its therapeutic effects on bovine endometritis are still unclear. The aim of this study was to explore the role of miRNA and the mechanisms underlying the protective activity of FTA on the inflammation of bovine endometrial stromal cells induced by LPS. Based on previous research, we isolated and cultured bESCs in vitro and categorized them into LPS and LPS+FTA groups with three replicates. Upon reaching 80% confluence, the bESCs were treated with 0.5 μg/mL of LPS or 0.5 μg/mL of LPS + 100 μg/mL of FTA. We, then, performed high-throughput sequencing (RNA-Seq) to investigate the effects of FTA on LPS-stimulated primary bESCs and their underlying mechanisms. We identified 167 miRNAs differentially expressed in the LPS groups; 72 miRNAs were up-regulated, and 95 were down-regulated. Gene ontology enrichment analysis revealed that differentially expressed microRNA (DEGs) were most enriched during the cellular metabolic process; they were mostly located intracellularly and participated in protein, enzyme, and ion binding. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analysis revealed that the DEGs were most enriched in the mitogen-activated protein kinase, tumor necrosis factor, and Interleukin-17 signaling pathways. These results reveal the complex molecular mechanism involved in the FTA and provide a basis for future studies of bovine endometritis treatment with traditional Chinese medicine monomer.

Biotechnologically-Produced Myconoside and Calceolarioside E Induce Nrf2 Expression in Neutrophils

The pathological manifestation of various diseases can be suppressed by the activation of nuclear factor erythroid 2 p45-related factor 2 (Nrf2), a transcriptional regulator of the cellular redox balance. Haberlea rhodopensis Friv. is a resurrection plant species endemic for Bulgaria, containing biologically active phenylethanoid glycosides that might possess antioxidant or redox activity. This study aimed to analyze the metabolic profile of in vitro cultured H. rhodopensis and to identify molecules that increase Nrf2 expression in bone marrow neutrophils. Fractions B, D, and E containing myconoside, or myconoside and calceolarioside E in ratios 1:0.6 and 0.25:1 were found to be the most active ones. Fraction B (200 µg/mL) improved neutrophil survival and strongly increased the Nrf2 intracellular level, while D and E, as well as, myconoside and calceolarioside E at the same ratios had a superior effect. Calceolarioside E (32 µg/mL) had stronger activity than myconoside, the effect of which was very similar to that of 2-cyano-3,12-dioxo-oleana-1,9(11)-dien-28-oic acid methyl ester (CDDO-Me), used as a positive control. These data indicate that both molecules, used alone or in combination have stimulatory activity on the endogenous Nrf2 level, indicating their therapeutic potential to regulate the cellular redox homeostasis oxidative stress-associated pathologies.

Forsythoside A Alleviates High Glucose-Induced Oxidative Stress and Inflammation in Podocytes by Inactivating MAPK Signaling via MMP12 Inhibition

BACKGROUND

Podocyte injury serves an important role during the progression of diabetic nephropathy (DN). The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of forsythoside A (FA) on high glucose (HG)-induced podocyte injury and to identify the possible mechanisms.

METHODS

MPC-5 podocytes were cultured under HG conditions. After exposure to different doses of FA, cell viability and apoptosis were respectively evaluated with CCK-8 assay and flow cytometry. Then, the levels of oxidative stress-related markers and inflammatory factors were examined by corresponding kits. Western blot analysis was employed to detect the expression of Nox2, Nox4, COX-2, iNOS and matrix metalloproteinases 12 (MMP12). Subsequently, MMP12 was overexpressed to assess whether the effects of FA on HG-stimulated podocyte injury were mediated by MMP12 and MAPK signaling.

RESULTS

Results indicated that FA dose-dependently elevated cell viability, reduced cell apoptosis in HG-induced MPC-5 cells. Additionally, FA significantly inhibited oxidative stress, which could be certified by decreased content of malondialdehyde (MDA), enhanced activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), and downregulated expression of Nox2 and Nox4. Moreover, notably reduced levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-6 were observed in FA-treated MPC-5 cells under HG conditions, accompanied by decreased COX-2 and iNOS expression. Remarkably, FA suppressed MMP12 expression in a dose-dependent manner, and the effects of FA on MPC-5 cells exposed to HG were partially counteracted by MMP12 overexpression. Mechanically, FA inactivated the expression of phospho-ERK (p-ERK), p-p38 and p-JNK, which was restored after MMP12 overexpression.

CONCLUSION

These findings demonstrate a protective mechanism of FA by inactivating MAPK signaling via MMP12 inhibition in HG-induced podocyte injury, providing a promising therapeutic candidate for the treatment of DN.

Forsythia suspensa extract enhances performance via the improvement of nutrient digestibility, antioxidant status, anti-inflammatory function, and gut morphology in broilers

This experiment aims to determine the effects of Forsythia suspense extract (FSE) as an antibiotic substitute on performance, antioxidant status, anti-inflammatory function, intestinal morphology, and meat fatty acid deposition in broilers. 192 male Arbor Acre broilers (1-day-old, weighing 45.6 ± 1.3 g) were randomly allocated to 3 treatments, 8 replicate pens per treatment, 8 broilers per pen. The treatments contain a control diet (corn-soybean meal basal diet, CTL), an antibiotic diet (basal diet + 75 mg/kg chlortetracycline, CTC), and an FSE diet (basal diet + 100 mg/kg FSE; FSE). The experiment includes phase 1 (day 1 to 21) and 2 (day 22 to 42). Compared with CTL and CTC, broilers supplemented with FSE showed higher (P < 0.05) ADG and ADFI in phase 2 and overall (day 1 to 42). On day 21, serum catalase and total antioxidant capacity contents were enhanced (P < 0.05) in broilers fed FSE compared with CTL. On day 42, broilers fed FSE showed increased (P < 0.05) serum superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase contents, and enhanced (P < 0.05) apparent total tract digestibility of dry matter, organic matter, gross energy, total carbohydrates, and phosphorus, as well as reduced (P < 0.05) nitrogen and phosphorus excretion in feces compared with CTL. These broilers also showed decreased (P < 0.05) n-6/n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid ratio in thigh meat, and tumor necrotic factor-alpha, interleukin-1β and interleukin-6 contents in the liver on day 42 compared with CTL. The villus height was increased (P < 0.05) in the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum of broilers fed FSE compared with CTL. In conclusion, dietary F.suspense extract supplementation as a chlortetracycline substitute under non-challenge conditions enhanced performance via the improvement of nutrient digestibility, antioxidant status, anti-inflammatory function, and intestinal morphology in broilers. Moreover, F.suspense extract may also benefit environment by reducing nitrogen and phosphorus excretion and benefit human health via modulating meat fatty acid profiles in broilers.

Therapeutic potential of phenylethanoid glycosides: A systematic review

Phenylethanoid glycosides (PhGs) are generally water-soluble phenolic compounds that occur in many medicinal plants. Until June 2020, more than 572 PhGs have been isolated and identified. PhGs possess antibacterial, anticancer, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antiobesity, antioxidant, antiviral, and neuroprotective properties. Despite these promising benefits, PhGs have failed to fulfill their therapeutic applications due to their poor bioavailability. The attempts to understand their metabolic pathways to improve their bioavailability are investigated. In this review article, we will first summarize the number of PhGs compounds which is not accurate in the literature. The latest information on the biological activities, structure-activity relationships, mechanisms, and especially the clinical applications of PhGs will be reviewed. The bioavailability of PhGs will be summarized and factors leading to the low bioavailability will be analyzed. Recent advances in methods such as bioenhancers and nanotechnology to improve the bioavailability of PhGs are also summarized. The existing scientific gaps of PhGs in knowledge are also discussed, highlighting research directions in the future.

Counteracting role of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 pathway in Alzheimer's disease

A salient pathological features in Alzheimer's disease includes redox impairment and neuroinflammation. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and Nuclear factor kappa B (NF-ҡB) are the two key transcription factors that regulate cellular responses to redox impairment and neuroinflammation respectively. An effective way to confer neuroprotection in central nervous system (CNS) is the activation of a transcription factor i.e Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). An enhancer element known as Antioxidant Response Element (ARE) mediates the expression of phase II detoxification enzymes. Nrf2 is a nuclear transcription factor that binds to ARE thereby transcribing expression of several antioxidant genes. Kelch ECH associating protein-1 (Keap1), a culin 3-based E3 ligase, polyubiquitinates Nrf2 and targets it for its degradation. Disruption in the interaction between Keap1/Nrf2 can increase the brain's endogenous antioxidant capacity and thereby responsible for cell defence against oxidative stress and neuroinflammation in Alzheimer's disease (AD). The current review discusses about Keap1-Nrf2-ARE structure and function with special emphasis on the various pathways involved in positive and negative modulation of Nrf2, namely Phosphoinositide 3- kinase (PI3K), Glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β), Nuclear factor kappa-b (NF-ҡb), Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK-STAT),Tumour Necrosis Factor- α (TNF-α), p38Mitogen-activated protein kinases (p38MAPK), Cyclic AMP response element binding protein (CREB) and intrinsic & extrinsic apoptotic pathway. Furthermore, this review highlights the miscellaneous Nrf2 activators as promising therapeutic agents for slowingdown the progression of AD.

Impact of Antioxidant Natural Compounds on the Thyroid Gland and Implication of the Keap1/Nrf2 Signaling Pathway

BACKGROUND

Natural compounds with potential antioxidant properties have been used in the form of food supplements or extracts with the intent to prevent or treat various diseases. Many of these compounds can activate the cytoprotective Nrf2 pathway. Besides, some of them are known to impact the thyroid gland, often with potential side-effects, but in other instances, with potential utility in the treatment of thyroid disorders.

OBJECTIVE

In view of recent data regarding the multiple roles of Nrf2 in the thyroid, this review summarizes the current bibliography on natural compounds that can have an effect on thyroid gland physiology and pathophysiology, and it discusses the potential implication of the Nrf2 system in the respective mechanisms.

METHODS & RESULTS

Literature searches for articles from 1950 to 2018 were performed in PubMed and Google Scholar using relevant keywords about phytochemicals, Nrf2 and thyroid. Natural substances were categorized into phenolic compounds, sulfur-containing compounds, quinones, terpenoids, or under the general category of plant extracts. For individual compounds in each category, respective data were summarized, as derived from in vitro (cell lines), preclinical (animal models) and clinical studies. The main emerging themes were as follows: phenolic compounds often showed potential to affect the production of thyroid hormones; sulfur-containing compounds impacted the pathogenesis of goiter and the proliferation of thyroid cancer cells; while quinones and terpenoids modified Nrf2 signaling in thyroid cell lines.

CONCLUSION

Natural compounds that modify the activity of the Nrf2 pathway should be evaluated carefully, not only for their potential to be used as therapeutic agents for thyroid disorders, but also for their thyroidal safety when used for the prevention and treatment of non-thyroidal diseases.

PL201, a Reported Rhamnoside Against Alzheimer's Disease Pathology, Alleviates Neuroinflammation and Stimulates Nrf2 Signaling

Neuroinflammation induced by overactivated glia cells is believed to be a major hallmark of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and a hopeful target against AD. A rhamnoside PL201 was previously reported to promote neurogenesis and ameliorate AD, and in this study, we revealed that PL201 also significantly reduced accumulation of the activated microglia and proinflammatory cytokines in APP/PS1 mice. In vitro, PL201 consistently suppressed the microglia induction of proinflammatory cytokines after stimulation with lipopolysaccharides and Aβ42. Further mechanistic studies demonstrated that PL201 considerably enhanced the expression level and the nuclear translocation of Nrf2, a key regulator of neuroinflammation. Moreover, PL201 effectively stimulated Nrf2 signaling cascade, including upregulation of HO-1 and downregulation of NF-κB pathway. Thus, our findings indicated the anti-neuroinflammatory effect by PL201 in vivo and suggested that PL201 or the like, with multiple functions such as neurogenesis, mitochondria maintenance, and anti-neuroinflammation, could be a promising candidate in AD treatment.

Distribution Patterns for Bioactive Constituents in Pericarp, Stalk and Seed of Forsythiae Fructus

Forsythiae Fructus (FF) is a widely used folk medicine in China, Japan, and Korea. The distribution of bioactive constituents throughout the fruit segments has rarely been addressed, although mounting evidence suggests that plant secondary metabolites are synthesized and distributed regularly. The phytochemical profiles of three segments of FF (pericarp, stalk and seed) were firstly revealed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)-based quantitative analysis of twenty-one bioactive constituents, including three phenylethanoid glycosides, five lignans, eight flavonoids, and five phenolic acids to explore the spatial distribution of bioactive constituents. Furthermore, the hierarchical clustering analysis (HCA) and one-way analysis of variance (one-way ANOVA) were conducted to visualize and verify the distribution regularity of twenty-one analytes among three segments. The results showed that phytochemical profiles of the three segments were similar, i.e., phenylethanoid glycosides covering the most part were the predominant compounds, followed by lignans, flavonoids and phenolic acids. Nevertheless, the abundance of twenty-one bioactive constituents among three segments was different. Specifically, phenylethanoid glycosides were highly expressed in the seed; lignans were primarily enriched in the stalk; flavonoids were largely concentrated in the pericarp, while the contents of phenolic acids showed no much difference among various segments. The research improves our understanding of distribution patterns for bioactive constituents in FF, and also complements some scientific data for further exploring the quality formation mechanism of FF.

Forsythoside A and Forsythoside B Contribute to Shuanghuanglian Injection-Induced Pseudoallergic Reactions through the RhoA/ROCK Signaling Pathway

In recent years, hypersensitivity reactions to the Shuanghuanglian injection have attracted broad attention. However, the componential chief culprits inducing the reactions and the underlying mechanisms involved have not been completely defined. In this study, we used a combination of approaches based on the mouse model, human umbilical vein endothelial cell monolayer, real-time cellular monitoring, immunoblot analysis, pharmacological inhibition, and molecular docking. We demonstrated that forsythoside A and forsythoside B contributed to Shuanghuanglian injection-induced pseudoallergic reactions through activation of the RhoA/ROCK signaling pathway. Forsythoside A and forsythoside B could trigger dose-dependent vascular leakage in mice. Moreover, forsythoside A and forsythoside B slightly elicited mast cell degranulation. Correspondingly, treatment with forsythoside A and forsythoside B disrupted the endothelial barrier and augmented the expression of GTP-RhoA, p-MYPT1, and p-MLC2 in a concentration-dependent manner. Additionally, the ROCK inhibitor effectively alleviated forsythoside A/forsythoside B-induced hyperpermeability in both the endothelial cells and mice. Similar responses were not observed in the forsythoside E-treated animals and cells. These differences may be related to the potential of the tested compounds to react with RhoA-GTPγS and form stable interactions. This study innovatively revealed that some forsythosides may cause vascular leakage, and therefore, limiting their contents in injections should be considered.

Ameliorative effects of aqueous extract of Forsythiae suspensa fruits on oxaliplatin-induced neurotoxicity in vitro and in vivo

Background

The dried fruits of Forsythia suspensa has generally been used to clear heat and detoxify in traditional Korean and Chinese medicine. Oxaliplatin is a first-line treatment chemotherapeutic agent for advanced colorectal cancer, but it induces peripheral neuropathy as an adverse side effect affecting the treatment regimen and the patient’s quality of life. The present study was conducted to evaluate the neuroprotective effects of an aqueous extract of F. suspensa fruits (EFSF) on oxaliplatin-induced peripheral neuropathy.

Methods

The chemical components from EFSF were characterized and quantified using the ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-diode array detector system. The cytotoxicities of anticancer drugs in cancer cells and PC12 cells were assessed by the Ez-Cytox viability assay. To measure the in vitro neurotoxicity, the neurite outgrowth was analyzed in the primary dorsal root ganglion (DRG) cells, and neural PC12 cells that were differentiated with nerve growth factor. To evaluate the in vivo neuroprotective activity, the von Frey test was performed in six-week-old male mice (C57BL/6) receiving EFSF (60–600 mg/kg) in the presence of 20–30 mg/kg cumulative doses of oxaliplatin. Thereafter, the mice were euthanized for immunohistochemical staining analysis with an antibody against PGP9.5.

Results

EFSF attenuated the cytotoxic activities of the various anticancer drugs in neural PC12 cells, but did not affect the anticancer activity of oxaliplatin in human cancer cells. Oxaliplatin remarkably induced neurotoxicities including cytotoxicity and the inhibited neurite outgrowth of DRG and neural PC12 cells. However, the co-treatment of EFSF (100 μg/ml) with oxaliplatin completely reversed the oxaliplatin-induced neurotoxicity. Forsythoside A, the major component of EFSF, also exerted remarkable neuroprotective effects against the oxaliplatin-induced neurotoxicity. In addition, EFSF (60–200 mg/kg) significantly alleviated the oxaliplatin-induced mechanical allodynia and loss of intra-epidermal nerve fiber to the levels of the vehicle control in the mouse peripheral neuropathy model.

Conclusions

EFSF could be considered a useful herbal medicine for the treatment of peripheral neuropathy in cancer patients receiving chemotherapy with oxaliplatin.

Forsythiaside A protects against focal cerebral ischemic injury by mediating the activation of the Nrf2 and endoplasmic reticulum stress pathways

Ischemic stroke is a common type of stroke with a high mortality and morbidity rate. Preventing and controlling cerebral ischemic injury is particularly important. Forsythiaside A (FA) has been reported to have anti‑inflammatory and antioxidant activities. The aim of the present study was to explore the impact of FA on middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO)‑induced cerebral ischemic injury in rats. The results indicated that FA markedly increased the percent survival and decreased the neurological deficit score in rats with cerebral ischemic injury. Furthermore, cell apoptosis was significantly inhibited by FA administration, which was accompanied by decreased caspase‑3 and caspase‑9 expression. A marked increase in the expression levels of nuclear factor‑erythroid 2‑related factor 2 (Nrf2), NAD(P)H quinone dehydrogenase 1 and glutathione‑s‑transferase was detected in FA‑treated rats. In addition, treatment with FA reduced malonaldehyde expression, and enhanced the expression of superoxide dismutase and glutathione. Furthermore, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress was vastly alleviated by FA treatment, as evidenced by the increased expression of B‑cell lymphoma 2, apoptosis regulator and the downregulated expression of phosphorylated (phospho)‑protein kinase RNA‑like ER kinase (PERK)/PERK, phospho‑inositol‑requiring enzyme 1 (IRE1α)/IRE1α and CCAAT‑enhancer‑binding proteins homologous protein. Taken together, the present study demonstrated that FA attenuated cerebral ischemic damage via mediation of the activation of Nrf2 and ER stress pathways. These data may provide ideas for novel treatment strategies of cerebral ischemic damage.

Forsythiaside attenuates Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide-induced liver acute inflammatory response in chicken

This study investigated the effects of forsythiaside on the acute inflammatory response induced by Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in liver of broiler chickens. Fifteen-day-old chickens were randomly assigned to three groups (n = 20 for each group, orally treated with 0, 30, or 60 mg/kg BW of forsythiaside) for 7 days. At 21 days of age, the chickens were intravenously injected with either LPS (200 μg/kg BW) or sterile saline (200 μg/kg BW, control group). All the chickens were humanely euthanized by cervical dislocation 2 h after the LPS injection. The results showed that the injection of LPS induced some indexes, including total proteins, nitric oxide (NO), interleukin-1beta (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and interleukin-17 (IL-17) production ( P < 0.05) and increased the mRNA expression of LPS-induced tumor necrosis factor-alpha (LITAF), IL-1β, IL-17, IL-6, and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) ( P < 0.05). Forsythiaside supplementation alleviated the LPS-induced inflammatory response by inhibiting the production of total proteins, NO, LITAF, IL-1β, IL-17, and IL-6 and down-regulating the mRNA expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and iNOS. In conclusion, forsythiaside is a potential treatment for LPS-induced liver acute inflammation in chicken.

Efficacy of Chinese herbal medicine in a case of geriatric urinary tract infections with pain of episiotomy scar inflammation

RATIONALE

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common infectious diseases in women. The management of patients with UTI after menopause is commonly combined with antibiotics and external application of estrogen, which could also cause drug resistance and result in poor curative effect. This study reports a case of UTI with pain of episiotomy scar inflammation for 10 years, which was successfully cured under traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and showed no recurrence for 5 years.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A female patient, aged 71 years, experienced UTIs with pain of episiotomy scar inflammation for 10 years. Under antibiotics and external application of estrogen therapy, the patient still had no significant curative effect. Therefore, he was admitted to treatment with TCM for complementary therapy.

DIAGNOSIS

UTIs with pain of episiotomy scar inflammation.

INTERVENTIONS

This patient was treated with Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) treatment 2 times a day for 1 year. After 1 month of CHM treatment, the patient could tolerate pain of episiotomy scar inflammation.

OUTCOMES

After 2 months of CHM treatment, the follow-up urinalysis leukocyte, red blood cell, and pH showed great improvements in examination. Late follow-up was continued to November 2017, and the patient recovered stable condition without recurrence.

LESSONS

In this case, successful treatment by only applying the prescription of CHM is achieved in 1 elderly woman with UTI and pain of episiotomy scar inflammation in 1 year. It is suggested that the CHM formula has a potential effect on UTI and pain from episiotomy scar inflammation when usage of antibiotics and hormones meets with poor response.