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Liu S, Sun C, Tang H, Peng C, Peng F. Leonurine: a comprehensive review of pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and toxicology. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1428406. [PMID: 39101131 PMCID: PMC11294146 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1428406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Leonurine is an alkaloid unique to the Leonurus genus, which has many biological activities, such as uterine contraction, anti-inflammation, anti-oxidation, regulation of cell apoptosis, anti-tumor, angiogenesis, anti-platelet aggregation, and inhibition of vasoconstriction. This paper summarizes the extraction methods, synthetic pathways, biosynthetic mechanisms, pharmacokinetic properties, pharmacological effects in various diseases, toxicology, and clinical trials of leonurine. To facilitate a successful transition into clinical application, intensified efforts are required in several key areas: structural modifications of leonurine to optimize its properties, comprehensive pharmacokinetic assessments to understand its behavior within the body, thorough mechanistic studies to elucidate how it works at the molecular level, rigorous safety evaluations and toxicological investigations to ensure patient wellbeing, and meticulously conducted clinical trials to validate its efficacy and safety profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyu Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Chen Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Hailin Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Cheng Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Fu Peng
- Department of Pharmacology, Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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Yin X, Gao Q, Li C, Yang Q, HongliangDong, Li Z. Leonurine alleviates vancomycin nephrotoxicity via activating PPARγ and inhibiting the TLR4/NF-κB/TNF-α pathway. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 131:111898. [PMID: 38513573 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.111898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2024] [Revised: 03/10/2024] [Accepted: 03/17/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Vancomycin (VCM) is the first-line antibiotic for severe infections, but nephrotoxicity limits its use. Leonurine (Leo) has shown protective effects against kidney damage. However, the effect and mechanism of Leo on VCM nephrotoxicity remain unclear. In this study, mice and HK-2 cells exposed to VCM were treated with Leo. Biochemical and pathological analysis and fluorescence probe methods were performed to examine the role of Leo in VCM nephrotoxicity. Immunohistochemistry, q-PCR, western blot, FACS, and Autodock software were used to verify the mechanism. The present results indicate that Leo significantly alleviates VCM-induced renal injury, morphological damage, and oxidative stress. Increased intracellular and mitochondrial ROS in HK-2 cells and decreased mitochondrial numbers in mouse renal tubular epithelial cells were reversed in Leo-administrated groups. In addition, molecular docking analysis using Autodock software revealed that Leo binds to the PPARγ protein with high affinity. Mechanistic exploration indicated that Leo inhibited VCM nephrotoxicity via activating PPARγ and inhibiting the TLR4/NF-κB/TNF-α inflammation pathway. Taken together, our results indicate that the PPARγ inhibition and inflammation reactions were implicated in the VCM nephrotoxicity and provide a promising therapeutic strategy for renal injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuedong Yin
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China; School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200125, China
| | - Qian Gao
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China; School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200125, China
| | - Chensuizi Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China; School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200125, China
| | - Qiaoling Yang
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Children's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200062, China
| | - HongliangDong
- Pediatric Translational Medicine Institute, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200120, China.
| | - Zhiling Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China.
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Meng Y, Xi T, Fan J, Yang Q, Ouyang J, Yang J. The inhibition of FTO attenuates the antifibrotic effect of leonurine in rat cardiac fibroblasts. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2024; 693:149375. [PMID: 38128243 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2023.149375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myocardial fibrosis (MF) is a common pathological condition in cardiovascular diseases that often causes severe cardiac dysfunction. MF is characterized by changes in cardiomyocytes, cardiac fibroblasts (CFs), levels of collagen (Col) -1, -3, and overdeposition of the extracellular matrix. Our previous research showed that leonurine (LE) effectively inhibits collagen synthesis and differentiation of CFs, but the mechanism is not fully elucidated. Recent evidence indicates that fat mass and obesity-associated proteins (FTO) regulates the occurrence and development of MF. This study aimed to explore the role of FTO in the antifibrotic effects of LE. METHODS Neonatal rat CFs were isolated, and induced using angiotensin II (Ang II) to establish a cell model of MF. Cell viability, wound healing and transwell assays were used to detect cell activity and migration ability. The protein and mRNA levels of MF-related factors were measured following stimulation with Ang II and LE under normal conditions or after FTO knockdown. The RNA methylation level was measured by dot blot assay. RESULTS The results showed that LE (20, 40 μM) was not toxic to normal CFs. LE reduced the proliferation, migration and collagen synthesis of Ang II-induced CFs. Further investigation showed that FTO was downregulated by Ang II stimulation, whereas LE reversed this effect. FTO knockdown facilitated the migration of CFs, upregulated the protein levels of Col-3, α-SMA and Col-1 in Ang II and LE-stimulated CFs, and enhanced the fluorescence intensity of α-SMA. Furthermore, LE reduced N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA methylation, which was partially blocked by FTO knockdown. FTO knockdown also reduced the expression levels of p53 protein in Ang II and LE-stimulated CFs. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that the inhibition of FTO may attenuate the antifibrotic effect of LE in CFs, suggesting that FTO may serve as a key protein for anti-MF of LE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuwei Meng
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China; Institute of Life Science, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Tianlan Xi
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China; Institute of Life Science, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Jun Fan
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Qiyu Yang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital & Chongqing Cancer Institute & Chongqing Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Jing Ouyang
- Clinical Research Center, Chongqing Public Health Medical Center, Chongqing, China.
| | - Jiadan Yang
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.
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Wang X, Zhang L, Yao G, Wang X, Yi S, Meng T, Meng D, Chen W, Guo L. De novo chromosome-level genome assembly of Chinese motherwort (Leonurus japonicus). Sci Data 2024; 11:55. [PMID: 38195564 PMCID: PMC10776605 DOI: 10.1038/s41597-023-02901-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Chinese motherwort (Leonurus japonicus), a member of Lamiaceae family, is a commonly used medicinal herb for treating obstetrical and gynecological diseases, producing over 280 officinal natural products. Due to limited genomic resources, little progress has been made in deciphering the biosynthetic pathway of valuable natural products in L. japonicus. Here, we de novo assembled the L. japonicus genome using high-coverage ONT long reads and Hi-C reads. The chromosome-level genome assembly contained ten chromosomes representing 99.29% of 489.34 Mb genomic sequence with a contig and scaffold N50 of 7.27 Mb and 50.86 Mb, respectively. Genome validations revealed BUSCO and LAI score of 99.2% and 21.99, respectively, suggesting high quality of genome assembly. Using transcriptomic data from various tissues, 22,531 protein-coding genes were annotated. Phylogenomic analysis of 13 angiosperm plants suggested L. japonicus had 58 expanded gene families functionally enriched in specialized metabolism such as diterpenoid biosynthesis. The genome assembly, annotation, and sequencing data provide resources for the elucidation of biosynthetic pathways behind natural products of pharmaceutical applications in L. japonicus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinrui Wang
- Peking University Institute of Advanced Agricultural Sciences, Shandong Laboratory of Advanced Agricultural Sciences at Weifang, Weifang, Shandong, 261325, China
| | - Lili Zhang
- Peking University Institute of Advanced Agricultural Sciences, Shandong Laboratory of Advanced Agricultural Sciences at Weifang, Weifang, Shandong, 261325, China
- Weifang Institute of Technology, School of Modern Agriculture and Environment, Weifang, Shandong, 261101, China
| | - Gang Yao
- Peking University Institute of Advanced Agricultural Sciences, Shandong Laboratory of Advanced Agricultural Sciences at Weifang, Weifang, Shandong, 261325, China
| | - Xiangfeng Wang
- Peking University Institute of Advanced Agricultural Sciences, Shandong Laboratory of Advanced Agricultural Sciences at Weifang, Weifang, Shandong, 261325, China
| | - Shu Yi
- Peking University Institute of Advanced Agricultural Sciences, Shandong Laboratory of Advanced Agricultural Sciences at Weifang, Weifang, Shandong, 261325, China
| | - Tan Meng
- Peking University Institute of Advanced Agricultural Sciences, Shandong Laboratory of Advanced Agricultural Sciences at Weifang, Weifang, Shandong, 261325, China
| | - Dian Meng
- Peking University Institute of Advanced Agricultural Sciences, Shandong Laboratory of Advanced Agricultural Sciences at Weifang, Weifang, Shandong, 261325, China
| | - Weikai Chen
- Peking University Institute of Advanced Agricultural Sciences, Shandong Laboratory of Advanced Agricultural Sciences at Weifang, Weifang, Shandong, 261325, China.
| | - Li Guo
- Peking University Institute of Advanced Agricultural Sciences, Shandong Laboratory of Advanced Agricultural Sciences at Weifang, Weifang, Shandong, 261325, China.
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Ma XN, Feng W, Li N, Chen SL, Zhong XQ, Chen JX, Lin CS, Xu Q. Leonurine alleviates rheumatoid arthritis by regulating the Hippo signaling pathway. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 123:155243. [PMID: 38056147 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2023.155243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that can cause joint inflammation and damage. Leonurine (LE) is an alkaloid found in Leonurus heterophyllus. It has anti-inflammatory effects. HYPOTHESIS/PURPOSE The molecular mechanisms by which LE acts in RA are unclear and further investigation is required. METHODS Mice with collagen-induced arthritis (CIA), and RA-fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLSs) isolated from them were used as in vivo and in vitro models of RA, respectively. The therapeutic effects of LE on CIA-induced joint injury were investigated by micro-computed tomography, and staining with hematoxylin and eosin and Safranin-O/Fast Green. Cell Counting Kit-8, a Transwell® chamber, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, RT-qPCR, and western blotting were used to investigate the effects of LE on RA-FLS viability, migratory capacity, inflammation, microRNA-21 (miR-21) levels, the Hippo signaling pathway, and the effects and intrinsic mechanisms of related proteins. Dual luciferase was used to investigate the binding of miR-21 to YOD1 deubiquitinase (YOD1) and yes-associated protein (YAP). Immunofluorescence was used to investigate the localization of YAP within the nucleus and cytoplasm. RESULTS Treatment with LE significantly inhibited joint swelling, bone damage, synovial inflammation, and proteoglycan loss in the CIA mice. It also reduced the proliferation, cell colonization, migration/invasion, and inflammation levels of RA-FLSs, and promoted miR-21 expression in vitro. The effects of LE on RA-FLSs were enhanced by an miR-21 mimic and reversed by an miR-21 inhibitor. The dual luciferase investigation confirmed that both YOD1 and YAP are direct targets of miR-21. Treatment with LE activated the Hippo signaling pathway, and promoted the downregulation and dephosphorylation of MST1 and LATS1 in RA, while inhibiting the activation of YOD1 and YAP. Regulation of the therapeutic effects of LE by miR-21 was counteracted by YOD1 overexpression, which caused the phosphorylation of YAP and prevented its nuclear ectopic position, thereby reducing LE effect on pro-proliferation-inhibiting apoptosis target genes. CONCLUSION LE regulates the Hippo signaling pathway through the miR-21/YOD1/YAP axis to reduce joint inflammation and bone destruction in CIA mice, thereby inhibiting the growth and inflammation of RA-FLSs. LE has potential for the treatment of RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Na Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, The First Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510405, China; Department of Rheumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510405, China
| | - Wei Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, The First Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510405, China; Department of Rheumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510405, China
| | - Nan Li
- Formula-Pattern Research Center, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Shu-Lin Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, The First Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510405, China; Department of Rheumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510405, China
| | - Xiao-Qin Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, The First Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510405, China; Department of Rheumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510405, China
| | - Jia-Xu Chen
- Formula-Pattern Research Center, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Chang-Song Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, The First Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510405, China; Department of Rheumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510405, China.
| | - Qiang Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, The First Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510405, China; Department of Rheumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510405, China.
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Hu J, Hou W, Ma N, Zhang Y, Liu X, Wang Y, Ci X. Aging-related NOX4-Nrf2 redox imbalance increases susceptibility to cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury by regulating mitophagy. Life Sci 2024; 336:122352. [PMID: 38104863 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.122352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND During aging, excessive ROS production in the kidneys leads to redox imbalance, which contributes to oxidative damage and impaired organ homeostasis. However, whether and how aging-related NOX4-Nrf2 redox imbalance increases susceptibility to cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury remain largely unknown. METHODS In this study, we used cisplatin-challenged aging mouse models and senescent HK-2 cells to investigate the effects and mechanisms of aging on susceptibility to cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury. RESULTS In vivo, we found that cisplatin stimulation caused more severe renal damage, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction and mitophagy impairment in aging mice than in young mice. Moreover, Nrf2 deficiency aggravated cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury by exacerbating NOX4-Nrf2 redox imbalance and defective mitophagy. In vitro experiments on D-gal-treated human renal tubular epithelial cells (HK-2) demonstrated that senescent renal epithelial cells exhibited increased susceptibility to cisplatin-induced apoptosis, NOX4-Nrf2 redox imbalance-mediated oxidative stress and defective mitophagy. Mechanistically, we found that knockdown of Nrf2 in HK2 cells resulted in increased ROS and aggravated mitophagy impairment, whereas these effects were reversed in NOX4-knockdown cells. CONCLUSION The present study indicates that NOX4-Nrf2 redox imbalance is critical for mitophagy deficiency in aged renal tubular epithelial cells and is a therapeutic target for alleviating cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury in elderly patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianqiang Hu
- Institute of Translational Medicine, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130001, China
| | - Wenli Hou
- Department of Cadre Ward, the First Hospital of Jilin University, 71 Xinmin Street, Chaoyang, Changchun, Jilin 130021, China
| | - Ning Ma
- Institute of Translational Medicine, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130001, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Institute of Translational Medicine, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130001, China
| | - Xiaojie Liu
- Urological Department, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, Jilin Province, China
| | - Yuantao Wang
- Urological Department, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, Jilin Province, China
| | - Xinxin Ci
- Institute of Translational Medicine, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130001, China.
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Liu M, Chen R, Wang T, Ding Y, Zhang Y, Huang G, Huang J, Qu Q, Lv W, Guo S. Dietary Chinese herbal mixture supplementation improves production performance by regulating reproductive hormones, antioxidant capacity, immunity, and intestinal health of broiler breeders. Poult Sci 2024; 103:103201. [PMID: 37980727 PMCID: PMC10692728 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2023.103201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Chinese herbs have been used as feed additives and are commonly utilized in domestic intensive livestock farming. However, their impact on the production performance and intestinal health of broiler breeders has yet to be thoroughly explored. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a Chinese herbal mixture (CHM) on the production performance of broiler breeders in terms of reproductive hormones, antioxidant capacity, immunity, and intestinal health of broiler breeders. A total of 336 thirty-wk-old hens were randomly allotted to 4 groups with 6 replicates of fourteen hens each, which fed a basal diet supplemented with 0 (CON), 500 (CHM500), 1,000 (CHM1000), and 1,500 (CHM1500) mg/kg CHM for 56 days, respectively. Our results showed that dietary supplementation with CHM1000 increased the laying rate and number of SYF and decreased the feed conversion ratio (P < 0.05). All CHM groups increased oviduct and ovarian indexes, serum E2 and T-AOC levels, and decreased serum TG and MDA levels compared with CON (P < 0.05). In comparison to the CON group, the CHM1000 and CHM1500 groups increased serum ALB, IgM, and IL-10 levels, whereas the CHM1000 group also increased serum TP and SOD levels, and the CHM1500 group increased serum P and decreased serum TNF-α (P < 0.05). The addition of CHM increased FSHR expressions in the ovary, Claudin-1 expressions in the jejunum, and SOD1 expressions in the liver and ovary, but decreased the mRNA expressions of INH in the ovary as well as IL-2 and IL-6 expressions in the jejunum (P < 0.05). Moreover, CHM500 and CHM1000 groups increased CAT, GPx, and HO-1 expression in the ovary, and SOD1 and GPx expression in the jejunum, while decreasing IL-17A expression in the jejunum (P < 0.05). In addition, CHM1000 and CHM1500 groups increased villus height, VCR, and the mRNA expressions of Nrf2, HO-1, Occludin, and MUC2 in the jejunum, and IL-10 expression in the ovary, while decreasing IL-2 and IL-17A expression in the ovary, in addition to increasing GPx, Nrf2, HO-1, NQO1, and IL-10 expression in the liver (P < 0.05). Supplementation with CHM1000 increased ESR-α, ESR-β, GnRH, Nrf2, and NQO1 expression in the ovary, but decreased IFN-γ expression in the ovary as well as crypt depth in the jejunum (P < 0.05). Supplementing CHM1500 increased NQO1 and ZO-1 expression in the jejunum and decreased IL-2 in the liver (P < 0.05). The high-throughput sequencing results showed that dietary CHM1000 supplementation altered the composition of the intestinal microbiota, as evidenced by the regulation of the genera Lactobacillus, Faecalibacterium, and Phascolarctobacterium. PICRUSt analysis revealed that metabolic pathways of bacterial chemotaxis, butanoate metabolism, and synthesis and degradation of ketone bodies were enriched in the CHM1000 group. Spearman's correlation analysis indicated that the differentiated genera were significantly associated with the production performance, serum hormone, and gut barrier-related genes. Taken together, supplementation of CHM, especially at 1,000 mg/kg, could improve production performance by regulating reproductive hormones, antioxidant capacity, immunity, and intestinal health of broiler breeders, and maybe provide insights into its application as a potential feed additive to promote the performance of broiler breeders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengjie Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Rong Chen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Tianze Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Yiqing Ding
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Yinwen Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Gengxiong Huang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Jieyi Huang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Qian Qu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Weijie Lv
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Shining Guo
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, PR China; Guangdong Technology Research Center for Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine and Natural Medicine, Guangzhou, PR China; International Institute of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine, Guangzhou, PR China.
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Liu T, Wang W, Li X, Chen Y, Mu F, Wen A, Liu M, Ding Y. Advances of phytotherapy in ischemic stroke targeting PI3K/Akt signaling. Phytother Res 2023; 37:5509-5528. [PMID: 37641491 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
The pathogenesis of ischemic stroke is complex, and PI3K/Akt signaling is considered to play a crucial role in it. The PI3K/Akt pathway regulates inflammation, oxidative stress, apoptosis, autophagy, and vascular endothelial homeostasis after cerebral ischemia; therefore, drug research targeting the PI3K/Akt pathway has become the focus of scientists. In this review, we analyzed the research reports of antiischemic stroke drugs targeting the PI3K/Akt pathway in the past two decades. Because of the rich sources of natural products, increasing studies have explored the value of natural compounds, including Flavonoids, Quinones, Alkaloids, Phenylpropanoids, Phenols, Saponins, and Terpenoids, in alleviating neurological impairment and achieved satisfactory results. Herbal extracts and medicinal formulas have been applied in the treatment of ischemic stroke for thousands of years in East Asian countries. These precious clinical experiences provide a new avenue for research of antiischemic stroke drugs. Finally, we summarize and discuss the characteristics and shortcomings of the current research and put forward prospects for further in-depth exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianlong Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, The 940th Hospital Joint Logistics Support Forces of PLA, Lanzhou, China
- Department of Pharmacy, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Wenjun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Ethnic Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaolin Li
- Department of Pharmacy, The 940th Hospital Joint Logistics Support Forces of PLA, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yidan Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, The 940th Hospital Joint Logistics Support Forces of PLA, Lanzhou, China
| | - Fei Mu
- Department of Pharmacy, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Aidong Wen
- Department of Pharmacy, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Minna Liu
- Department of Nephrology, The 940th Hospital Joint Logistics Support Forces of PLA, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yi Ding
- Department of Pharmacy, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
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Cao Q, Wang Q, Wu X, Zhang Q, Huang J, Chen Y, You Y, Qiang Y, Huang X, Qin R, Cao G. A literature review: mechanisms of antitumor pharmacological action of leonurine alkaloid. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1272546. [PMID: 37818195 PMCID: PMC10560730 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1272546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Leonurine refers to the desiccated aerial portion of a plant in the Labiatae family. The primary bioactive constituent of Leonurine is an alkaloid, Leonurine alkaloid (Leo), renowned for its substantial therapeutic efficacy in the treatment of gynecological disorders, in addition to its broad-spectrum antineoplastic capabilities. Over recent years, the pharmacodynamic mechanisms of Leo have garnered escalating scholarly interest. Leo exhibits its anticancer potential by means of an array of mechanisms, encompassing the inhibition of neoplastic cell proliferation, induction of both apoptosis and autophagy, and the containment of oncogenic cell invasion and migration. The key signal transduction pathways implicated in these processes include the Tumor Necrosis Factor-Related Apoptosis-Inducing Ligand (TRAIL), the Phosphoinositide3-Kinase/Serine/Threonine Protein Kinase (PI3K/AKT), the Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 (STAT3), and the Mitogen-Activated Protein/Extracellular Signal-Regulated Kinase (MAP/ERK). This paper commences with an exploration of the principal oncogenic cellular behaviors influenced by Leo and the associated signal transduction pathways, thereby scrutinizing the mechanisms of Leo in the antineoplastic sequence of events. The intention is to offer theoretical reinforcement for the elucidation of more profound mechanisms underpinning Leo's anticancer potential and correlating pharmaceutical development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Cao
- Department of Earth Sciences, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
- School of Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, China
| | - Qi Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Xinyan Wu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Qi Zhang
- Undergraduate Department, Taishan University, Taian, China
| | - Jinghan Huang
- Undergraduate Department, Sichuan Conservatory of Music, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuquan Chen
- Institute of Medical Information/Library, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yanwei You
- Division of Sports Science and Physical Education, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Yi Qiang
- Department of Earth Sciences, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Xufeng Huang
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Ronggao Qin
- Department of Earth Sciences, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Guangzhu Cao
- Department of Earth Sciences, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
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Shi Y, Shi X, Zhao M, Chang M, Ma S, Zhang Y. Ferroptosis: A new mechanism of traditional Chinese medicine compounds for treating acute kidney injury. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 163:114849. [PMID: 37172334 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a major health concern owing to its high morbidity and mortality rates, to which there are no drugs or treatment methods, except for renal replacement therapy. Therefore, identifying novel therapeutic targets and drugs for treating AKI is urgent. Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent and lipid-peroxidation-driven regulatory form of cell death and is closely associated with the occurrence and development of AKI. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has unique advantages in treating AKI due to its natural origin and efficacy. In this review, we summarize the mechanisms underlying ferroptosis and its role in AKI, and TCM compounds that play essential roles in the prevention and treatment of AKI by inhibiting ferroptosis. This review suggests ferroptosis as a potential therapeutic target for AKI, and that TCM compounds show broad prospects in the treatment of AKI by targeting ferroptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Shi
- Department of Nephrology, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100091, China
| | - Xiujie Shi
- Department of Nephrology, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100091, China
| | - Mingming Zhao
- Department of Nephrology, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100091, China
| | - Meiying Chang
- Department of Nephrology, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100091, China
| | - Sijia Ma
- Institute of Basic Theory for Chinese Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100091, China.
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11
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Xi T, Wang R, Pi D, Ouyang J, Yang J. The p53/miR-29a-3p axis mediates the antifibrotic effect of leonurine on angiotensin II-stimulated rat cardiac fibroblasts. Exp Cell Res 2023; 426:113556. [PMID: 36933858 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2023.113556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
Overactivation of cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) is one of the main causes of myocardial fibrosis (MF), and inhibition of CF activation is a crucial strategy for MF therapy. A previous study by our group demonstrated that leonurine (LE) effectively inhibits collagen synthesis and myofibroblast generation originated from CFs, and eventually mitigates the progression of MF (where miR-29a-3p is likely to be a vital mediator). However, the underlying mechanisms involved in this process remain unknown. Thus, the present study aimed to investigate the precise role of miR-29a-3p in LE-treated CFs, and to elucidate the pharmacological effects of LE on MF. Neonatal rat CFs were isolated and stimulated by angiotensin II (Ang II) to mimic the pathological process of MF in vitro. The results show that LE distinctly inhibits collagen synthesis, as well as the proliferation, differentiation and migration of CFs, all of which could be induced by Ang II. In addition, LE promotes apoptosis in CFs under Ang II stimulation. During this process, the down-regulated expressions of miR-29a-3p and p53 are partly restored by LE. Either knockdown of miR-29a-3p or inhibition of p53 by PFT-α (a p53 inhibitor) blocks the antifibrotic effect of LE. Notably, PFT-α suppresses miR-29a-3p levels in CFs under both normal and Ang II-treated conditions. Furthermore, ChIP analysis confirmed that p53 is bound to the promoter region of miR-29a-3p, and directly regulates its expression. Overall, our study demonstrates that LE upregulates p53 and miR-29a-3p expression, and subsequently inhibits CF overactivation, suggesting that the p53/miR-29a-3p axis may play a crucial role in mediating the antifibrotic effect of LE against MF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianlan Xi
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China; Institute of Life Science, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ruiyu Wang
- Institute of Life Science, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Damao Pi
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jing Ouyang
- Clinical Research Center, Chongqing Public Health Medical Center, Chongqing, China.
| | - Jiadan Yang
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.
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12
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Leonurine improves bovine oocyte maturation and subsequent embryonic development by reducing oxidative stress and improving mitochondrial function. Theriogenology 2023; 199:11-18. [PMID: 36680865 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
It is acknowledged that excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) level attributes greatly to the compromised developmental potential of oocytes matured in vitro. Although agents were applied to alleviate ROS levels, results were varied because of the distinct antioxidative activity and cell toxicity. Leonurine (LEO), extracted from the natural Chinese herb motherwort, is considered to be a potent free radical scavenger. Yet, it is undetermined whether LEO is benefit for oocyte development during in vitro maturation (IVM). In the present study, the effect of LEO on the quality of bovine oocyte as well as the underlying mechanism was investigated. We found that maturation rate (P < 0.01), subsequent blastocyst formation rate (P < 0.05), and the total blastocyst cell number (P < 0.05) after parthenogenetic activation were significantly increased in the group treated with 20 μM LEO. Moreover, a dramatic decline in ROS (P < 0.01), decreased lipid content (P < 0.01), elevated MMP level (P < 0.05), increased ATP content (P < 0.05), and reduced mitochondrial temperature (P < 0.01) were observed in oocytes treated with LEO. Furthermore, the expression level of anti-apoptotic protein BCL2 was significantly higher in LEO treated oocytes (P < 0.01), and the ratio of BAX/BCL2 was obvious decreased (P < 0.01). Finally, we found that LC3B intensity was significantly reduced (P < 0.05) while the rate of EdU positive nuclei was markedly increased (P < 0.05) in embryos derived from LEO-treated oocytes. Our results demonstrate that LEO exhibits a potent protective role in the acquisition of oocyte development capacity against oxidative stress during IVM, and provides a new solution for optimizing the in vitro culture system of bovine embryos.
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Shen S, Wu G, Luo W, Li W, Li X, Dai C, Huang W, Liang G. Leonurine attenuates angiotensin II-induced cardiac injury and dysfunction via inhibiting MAPK and NF-κB pathway. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 108:154519. [PMID: 36332391 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2022.154519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hypertension is a common risk factor for heart failure, and excessive angiotensin II (Ang II) leads to hypertensive cardiac alterations such as hypertrophy, cardiac fibrosis, remodeling, and dysfunction. Leonurine is the major active alkaloid compound obtained from the traditional Chinese herbal medicine, Leonurus japonicus Houtt. The effects of leonurine on Ang II-induced hypertensive cardiac injury remain unknown. HYPOTHESIS/PURPOSE In the present study, we investigated the cardioprotective effects of leonurine in Ang II-infused mice and explored the underlying mechanisms in cardiomyocytes. METHODS Cardiac injury was induced by Ang II infusion in experimental mice with or without leonurine (at 10 or 20 mg/kg) treatment. H9c2 cells and neonatal rat primary cardiomyocytes were used to investigate the mechanisms through which leonurine exerts its protection effects. RESULTS The results showed that leonurine significantly alleviated Ang II-induced cardiac hypertrophy, fibrosis, and inflammation in both mice and cultured cardiomyocytes. Echocardiography revealed that leonurine preserved cardiac function in mice. Further investigations revealed that leonurine inhibited the activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) pathways to reduce inflammatory response and injuries in Ang II-challenged cardiomyocytes. Inhibition of MAPKs and NF-κB in cardiomyocytes abolished the anti-inflammatory effects of leonurine. CONCLUSIONS Our study provides evidence that leonurine exerts protective effects against Ang II-induced hypertensive cardiac remodeling and dysfunction by inhibiting the MAPK and NF-κB pathways. Leonurine may be a promising agent for treating hypertensive heart failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyuan Shen
- Chemical Biology Research Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China; Department of Cardiology and Medical Research Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China
| | - Gaojun Wu
- Department of Cardiology and Medical Research Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China
| | - Wu Luo
- Chemical Biology Research Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China; Department of Cardiology and Medical Research Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China
| | - Weixin Li
- Chemical Biology Research Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China
| | - Xiaobo Li
- Chemical Biology Research Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China
| | - Chengyi Dai
- Chemical Biology Research Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China; Department of Cardiology and Medical Research Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China
| | - Weijian Huang
- Department of Cardiology and Medical Research Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China.
| | - Guang Liang
- Chemical Biology Research Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China; Department of Cardiology and Medical Research Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311399, China.
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14
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Liang B, Cui S, Zou S. Leonurine suppresses prostate cancer growth in vitro and in vivo by regulating miR-18a-5p/SLC40A1 axis. CHINESE J PHYSIOL 2022; 65:319-327. [PMID: 36588358 DOI: 10.4103/0304-4920.365459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer is a leading cause of cancer-associated death in males. Leonurine (Leo) is a pleiotropic anti-tumor agent isolated from traditional Chinese herb that was used in gynecologic treatments. However, its pharmacological effect against prostate cancer progression remains unclear. Here, we showed that Leo dose dependently inhibited prostate cancer cell proliferation, promoted cell apoptosis, and induced cell cycle arrest. Moreover, we noticed that miR-18a-5p was downregulated and the solute carrier family 40 member 1 (SLC40A1) is upregulated by Leo treatment. SLC40A1 knockdown by siRNA abrogated the inhibitory effect of Leo on prostate cancer progression. Notably, Leo also significantly inhibited prostate cancer progression in a subcutaneous xenograft tumor mouse model in vivo. This study further unveiled the mechanism by which Leo inhibited prostate cancer progression, which provides a promising potential for its future clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Liang
- Department of Urology, Changzhou Cancer (Fourth People's) Hospital, Changzhou, China
| | - Shouxi Cui
- Department of Urology, Changzhou Cancer (Fourth People's) Hospital, Changzhou, China
| | - Songnian Zou
- Department of Urology, Changzhou Cancer (Fourth People's) Hospital, Changzhou, China
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15
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Li Z, Chen K, Rose P, Zhu YZ. Natural products in drug discovery and development: Synthesis and medicinal perspective of leonurine. Front Chem 2022; 10:1036329. [PMID: 36324522 PMCID: PMC9618625 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2022.1036329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural products, those molecules derived from nature, have been used by humans for thousands of years to treat ailments and diseases. More recently, these compounds have inspired chemists to use natural products as structural templates in the development of new drug molecules. One such compound is leonurine, a molecule isolated and characterized in the tissues of Herb leonuri. This molecule has received attention from scientists in recent years due to its potent anti-oxidant, anti-apoptotic, and anti-inflammatory properties. More recently researchers have shown leonurine to be useful in the treatment of cardiovascular and nervous system diseases. Like other natural products such as paclitaxel and artemisinin, the historical development of leonurine as a therapeutic is very interesting. Therefore, this review provided an overview of natural product discovery, through to the development of a potential new drug. Content will summarize known plant sources, the pathway used in the synthesis of leonurine, and descriptions of leonurine’s pharmacological properties in mammalian systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaoyi Li
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macau, China
| | - Keyuan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macau, China
| | - Peter Rose
- School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Yi Zhun Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macau, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Bioactive Small Molecules, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Yi Zhun Zhu,
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16
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The Regulatory Effects of Traditional Chinese Medicine on Ferroptosis. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2022; 2022:4578381. [PMID: 36193068 PMCID: PMC9526626 DOI: 10.1155/2022/4578381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has significantly contributed to protecting human health and promoting the progress of world civilization. A total of 2,711 TCMs are included in the 2020 version of the Chinese Pharmacopoeia, which is an integral part of the world’s medical resources. Tu Youyou and her team discovered and purified artemisinin. And their contributions made the values and advantageous effects of TCM more and more recognized by the international community. There has been a lot of studies on TCM to treat diseases through antioxidant mechanisms, the reports on the new mechanisms beyond antioxidants of TCM has also increased year by year. Recently, many TCMs appear to have significant effects in regulating ferroptosis. Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent, non-apoptotic, regulated cell death characterized by intracellular lipid peroxide accumulation and oxidative membrane damage. Recently, accumulating studies have demonstrated that numerous organ injuries and pathophysiological process of many diseases are companied with ferroptosis, such as cancer, neurodegenerative disease, acute renal injury, arteriosclerosis, diabetes, and ischemia-reperfusion injury. This work mainly introduces dozens of TCMs that can regulate ferroptosis and their possible mechanisms and targets.
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17
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Rong W, Li J, Wang L, Luo S, Liang T, Qian X, Zhang X, Zhou Q, Zhu Y, Zhu Q. Investigation of the protective mechanism of leonurine against acute myocardial ischemia by an integrated metabolomics and network pharmacology strategy. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:969553. [PMID: 36072867 PMCID: PMC9441747 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.969553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Leonurus japonicus Houtt has an obvious efficacy on cardiovascular diseases. As the most representative component in the herb, leonurine has attracted increasing attention for its potential in myocardial ischemia. However, its protective mechanism against myocardial ischemia remains incompletely elucidated. Objectives The present study aimed to reveal the potential mechanism of leonurine in acute myocardial ischemia using a strategy combining metabolomics and network pharmacology. Methods First, a metabolomics method was proposed to identify the differential metabolites of plasma in rats. Then, network pharmacology was performed to screen candidate targets of leonurine against acute myocardial ischemia. A compound-reaction-enzyme-gene network was thus constructed with the differential metabolites and targets. Finally, molecular docking was carried out to predict the binding capability of leonurine with key targets. Results A total of 32 differential metabolites were identified in rat plasma, and 16 hub genes were detected through network pharmacology. According to the results of compound-reaction-enzyme-gene network and molecular docking, what was screened included six key targets (GSR, CYP2C9, BCHE, GSTP1, TGM2, and PLA2G2A) and seven differential metabolites (glycerylphosphorylcholine, lysophosphatidylcholine, choline phosphate, linoleic acid, 13-HpODE, tryptophan and glutamate) with four important metabolic pathways involved: glycerophospholopid metabolism, linoleic acid metabolism, tryptophan metabolism and glutamate metabolism. Among them, glycerophospholipid and tryptophan metabolism were shown to be important, since the regulation of leonurine on these two pathways was also observed in our previous metabolomics study conducted on clinical hyperlipidemia patients. Conclusion This is the first study of its kind to reveal the underlying mechanism of leonurine against acute myocardial ischemia through a strategy combining metabolomics and network pharmacology, which provides a valuable reference for the research on its future application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiwei Rong
- School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong, China
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Inflammation and Molecular Drug Target, Nantong, China
| | - Jiejia Li
- School of Pharmacy and State Key Laboratory for the Quality Research of Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, Macau SAR, China
| | - Lifeng Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Shanshan Luo
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Bioactive Small Molecules, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tulu Liang
- Research Center for Intelligent Information Technology, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Xunjia Qian
- School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Xiaodan Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong, China
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Inflammation and Molecular Drug Target, Nantong, China
| | - Qinbei Zhou
- School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Yizhun Zhu
- School of Pharmacy and State Key Laboratory for the Quality Research of Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, Macau SAR, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Bioactive Small Molecules, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Yizhun Zhu
| | - Qing Zhu
- School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong, China
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Inflammation and Molecular Drug Target, Nantong, China
- *Correspondence: Qing Zhu
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Shi XD, Zhang JX, Hu XD, Zhuang T, Lu N, Ruan CC. Leonurine Attenuates Obesity-Related Vascular Dysfunction and Inflammation. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11071338. [PMID: 35883829 PMCID: PMC9311755 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11071338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxidative stress in adipose tissue is a crucial pathogenic mechanism of obesity-associated cardiovascular diseases. Chronic low-grade inflammation caused by obesity increases ROS production and dysregulation of adipocytokines. Leonurine (LEO) is an active alkaloid extracted from Herba Leonuri and plays a protective role in the cardiovascular system. The present study tested whether LEO alleviates inflammation and oxidative stress, and improves vascular function in an obese mouse model. Here, we found that obesity leads to inflammation and oxidative stress in epididymal white adipose tissue (EWAT), as well as vascular dysfunction. LEO significantly improved inflammation and oxidative stress both in vivo and in vitro. Obesity-induced vascular dysfunction was also improved by LEO as evidenced by the ameliorated vascular tone and decreased mesenteric artery fibrosis. Using mass spectrometry, we identified YTHDF1 as the direct target of LEO. Taken together, we demonstrated that LEO improves oxidative stress and vascular remodeling induced by obesity and targets YTHDF1, raising the possibility of LEO treating other obesity-related metabolic syndromes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Dong Shi
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; (X.-D.S.); (X.-D.H.); (T.Z.)
| | - Jia-Xin Zhang
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China;
| | - Xi-De Hu
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; (X.-D.S.); (X.-D.H.); (T.Z.)
| | - Tao Zhuang
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; (X.-D.S.); (X.-D.H.); (T.Z.)
| | - Ning Lu
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; (X.-D.S.); (X.-D.H.); (T.Z.)
- Correspondence: (N.L.); (C.-C.R.)
| | - Cheng-Chao Ruan
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; (X.-D.S.); (X.-D.H.); (T.Z.)
- Correspondence: (N.L.); (C.-C.R.)
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Li Y, Jia Q, Zhang M, Kang L, Li Z, Liu Y, Zhang H, Hu P. Isolation of three glucaric acids from Leonurus japonicus Houtt. by using high-speed countercurrent chromatography combined with semi-preparative high-performance liquid chromatography. J Sep Sci 2022; 45:2140-2147. [PMID: 35396803 DOI: 10.1002/jssc.202100876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The isomerism of glucaric acids and the complexity of composition of Leonurus. japonicus Houtt. increased the difficulty of the separation of glucaric acids from the herb. In the present study, three glucaric acids were isolated from Leonurus japonicus Houtt. by using high-speed countercurrent chromatography combined with semi-preparative high-performance liquid chromatography. Cation exchange resin chromatography was applied to remove the alkaloids and enrich the glucaric acid fractions. Preliminary separation of glucaric acids extract by high-speed countercurrent chromatography was carried out at 45℃ by using an optimized solvent system of ethyl acetate/n-butanol/formic acid/water (1:1:0.01:2, v/v/v/v) with satisfied stationary phase retention and separation factor. The semi-preparative high-performance liquid chromatography was used for further separation and purification of the target fractions, and three monomeric compounds were obtained with the purities of 90.0%, 91.0%, and 95.3%. Ultraviolet Spectroscopy, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy and MS were employed to identify their structures, which were assigned as 2-syringyl glucaric acid, 2,4-disyringyl glucaric acid, and 3,4-disyringyl glucaric acid, respectively, and 2,4-disyringyl glucaric acid was reported for the first time. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujie Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Functional Materials Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Qiangqiang Jia
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Functional Materials Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, P. R. China.,State Key Laboratory of Plateau Ecology and Agriculture, Qinghai University, Xining, P. R. China
| | - Min Zhang
- Engineering Research Centre of Pharmaceutical Process Chemistry, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Lu Kang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Functional Materials Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Zihan Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Functional Materials Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Yu Liu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Functional Materials Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Hongyang Zhang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Functional Materials Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Ping Hu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Functional Materials Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, P. R. China
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Zhang G, Wang L. Leonurine: A compound with the potential to prevent acute lung injury. Exp Ther Med 2022; 23:358. [PMID: 35493428 PMCID: PMC9019771 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2022.11285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Sepsis is an intense immune response to infection that contributes to the pathophysiological process of acute lung injury (ALI). Inflammation and oxidative stress serve an important role in the development of ALI. Leonurine (LEO) is a natural phenolic alkaloid extracted from Leonurus cardiaca, which possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to explore the effect of LEO on sepsis-induced ALI and to investigate its underlying mechanism. MTT and Cell Counting Kit-8 assays were performed to measure cell viability. The levels of reactive oxygen species, lactate dehydrogenase and malondialdehyde, as well as the activity of superoxidase dismutase, were quantified using commercial assay kits. The expression levels of specific inflammatory cytokines were measured by using ELISA. In addition, western blotting was employed to assess the expression levels of cytokines, including TNF-α, IL-6, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and heme oxygenase-1. The findings demonstrated that LEO increased the viability of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated BEAS-2B human lung epithelial cells in a dose-dependent manner. Additionally, LEO suppressed LPS-induced oxidative stress and inflammatory cytokine release in BEAS-2B cells. Treatment with Nrf2 inhibitor reversed the effects of LEO treatment on LPS-induced oxidative stress and inflammatory response in BEAS-2B cells. Taken together, the data of the present study indicated that LEO attenuated LPS-induced ALI through the inhibition of oxidative stress and inflammation regulated by the Nrf2 signaling pathway. Therefore, LEO may be a novel and effective agent for the prevention of sepsis-induced ALI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guoying Zhang
- Department of Pain Rehabilitation, Qingdao Special Servicemen Recuperation Center of PLA Navy, Qingdao, Shandong 266071, P.R. China
| | - Lanfei Wang
- Intensive Care Unit, Xinchang People's Hospital, Shaoxing, Zhejiang 312500, P.R. China
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21
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Hu J, Gu W, Ma N, Fan X, Ci X. Leonurine hydrochloride alleviates ferroptosis in cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury by activating the Nrf2 signaling pathway. Br J Pharmacol 2022; 179:3991-4009. [PMID: 35303762 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Increasing evidence suggests that ferroptosis plays a key role in the pathophysiology of acute kidney injury (AKI) induced by cisplatin. The Nrf2 signaling pathway regulates oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation and positively regulates cisplatin-induced AKI (CI-AKI). However, its effect as well as an alkaloid compound leonurine hydrochloride (LH) on ferroptosis after CI-AKI remain unclear. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH The anti-ferroptotic effects of Nrf2 and LH were assessed using a mouse model of cisplatin-induced AKI. In vitro, the potential effects of LH on erastin- and RSL3-induced HK-2 human PTEC ferroptosis were examined. KEY RESULTS As expected, Nrf2 deletion induced ferroptosis-related protein expression and iron accumulation in vivo, further aggravating CI-AKI. LH activated Nrf2 and prevented iron accumulation, lipid peroxidation and ferroptosis in vitro, while these effects were abolished in siNrf2-treated cells. Moreover, LH potently ameliorated cisplatin-induced renal damage, as indicated by the assessment of SCr, BUN, KIM-1, and NGAL. Importantly, LH activated the Nrf2 antioxidative signaling pathway and prohibited changes in ferroptosis-related morphological and biochemical indicators, such as the MDA level, SOD and GSH depletion and GPX4 and xCT downregulation, in CI-AKI. Moreover, Nrf2 KO mice were more susceptible to ferroptosis after CI-AKI than control mice, and the protective effects of LH on AKI and ferroptosis were largely abolished in Nrf2 KO mice. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS These data suggest that the renal protective effects of Nrf2 activation on CI-AKI are achieved at least partially by inhibiting lipid peroxide-mediated ferroptosis and highlight the potential of LH as a CI-AKI treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianqiang Hu
- Institute of Translational Medicine, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Wenjing Gu
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Ning Ma
- Institute of Translational Medicine, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Xiaoye Fan
- Institute of Translational Medicine, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Xinxin Ci
- Institute of Translational Medicine, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
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Yan K, Hu J, Hou T, Ci X, Peng L. Leonurine inhibits the TXNIP/NLRP3 and NF-κB pathways via Nrf2 activation to alleviate carrageenan-induced pleurisy in mice. Phytother Res 2022; 36:2161-2172. [PMID: 35285100 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Oxidative stress and inflammation play important roles in pleurisy. Leonurine (Leo) has been confirmed to exert antioxidative and antiinflammatory effects in many preclinical experiments, but these effects have not been studied in pleurisy. The aim of this study was to explore the therapeutic effect and mechanism of Leo in a carrageenan (CAR)-induced pleurisy model. In this study, we found that the increase of reactive oxygen species (ROS), myeloperoxidase (MPO), and malondialdehyde (MDA) and decrease of glutathione (GSH) induced by CAR could be reversed by the treatment of Leo. Leo effectively reduced the levels of proinflammatory cytokines interleukin-1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and the percentages of mature macrophages and increased the levels of antiinflammatory cytokines (IL-10). Furthermore, Western blotting revealed that Leo significantly activated the Nrf2 pathway to restrain the thioredoxin-interacting protein/NOD-like receptor protein 3 (TXNIP/NLRP3) and nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) pathways. However, the protective effect of Leo was significantly weakened in Nrf2-deficient mice. These results indicate that Leo confers potent protection against CAR-induced pleurisy by inhibiting the TXNIP/NLRP3 and NF-κB pathways dependent on Nrf2, which may serve as a promising agent for attenuating pleurisy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Yan
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jianqiang Hu
- Institute of Translational Medicine, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Tianhua Hou
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xinxin Ci
- Institute of Translational Medicine, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Liping Peng
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
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Lin YK, Li YY, Li Y, Li DJ, Wang XL, Wang L, Yu M, Zhu YZ, Cheng JJ, Du MR. SCM-198 Prevents Endometriosis by Reversing Low Autophagy of Endometrial Stromal Cell via Balancing ERα and PR Signals. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:858176. [PMID: 35784569 PMCID: PMC9245568 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.858176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endometriosis (EMS), an endocrine-related inflammatory disease, is characterized by estrogen and progesterone imbalance in ectopic lesions. However, its pathogenic mechanism has not been fully elucidated. While SCM-198 is the synthetic form of leonurine and has multiple pharmacological activities such as antioxidation and anti-inflammation, it remains unknown whether it could inhibit the progress of EMS by regulating estrogen signaling and inflammation. METHODS The therapeutic effects of SCM-198 on EMS and its potential mechanism were analyzed by establishing EMS mouse models and performing an RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) assay. ELISA was performed to detect estrogen and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) -α concentrations in normal endometrial stromal cells (nESCs) and ectopic endometrial stromal cells (eESCs) with or without SCM-198 treatment. Western blotting, RNA silencing, and plasmid overexpression were used to analyze the relationship between inflammation, endocrine factors, and autophagy and the regulatory activity of SCM-198 on the inflammation-endocrine-autophagy axis. RESULTS Increased estrogen-estrogen receptor (ER) α signaling and decreased progesterone receptor isoform B (PRB) expression synergistically led to a hypo-autophagy state in eESCs, which further inhibited the apoptosis of eESCs. The high expression of TNF-α in eESCs enhanced the antiapoptotic effect mediated by low autophagy through the activation of the aromatase-estrogen-ERα signaling pathway. SCM-198 inhibited the growth of ectopic lesions in EMS mice and promoted the apoptosis of eESCs both in vivo and in vitro. The apoptotic effect of SCM-198 on eESCs was attained by upregulating the autophagy level via the inhibition of the TNF-α-activated aromatase-estrogen-ERα signal and the increase in PRB expression. CONCLUSION Inflammation facilitated the progress of EMS by disrupting the estrogen regulatory axis. SCM-198 inhibited EMS progression by regulating the inflammation-endocrine-autophagy axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Kong Lin
- NHC (National Health Commission) Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies), Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, China
| | - Yun-Yun Li
- NHC (National Health Commission) Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies), Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, China
| | - Yue Li
- NHC (National Health Commission) Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies), Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Fourth People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine and School of Pharmacy, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macao, Macao SAR, China
| | - Da-Jin Li
- NHC (National Health Commission) Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies), Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiao-Lin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine and School of Pharmacy, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macao, Macao SAR, China
| | - Li Wang
- NHC (National Health Commission) Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies), Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, China
| | - Min Yu
- NHC (National Health Commission) Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies), Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi-Zhun Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine and School of Pharmacy, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macao, Macao SAR, China
- *Correspondence: Mei-Rong Du, ; Jia-Jing Cheng, ; Yi-Zhun Zhu,
| | - Jia-Jing Cheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Fourth People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Mei-Rong Du, ; Jia-Jing Cheng, ; Yi-Zhun Zhu,
| | - Mei-Rong Du
- NHC (National Health Commission) Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies), Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Fourth People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine and School of Pharmacy, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macao, Macao SAR, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guangzhou First People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Mei-Rong Du, ; Jia-Jing Cheng, ; Yi-Zhun Zhu,
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Qiu LN, Tan YR, Luo YJ, Chen XJ. Leonurine protects against influenza A virus infection-induced pneumonia in mice. Pathog Dis 2021; 79:6372906. [PMID: 34543397 DOI: 10.1093/femspd/ftab045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Influenza A virus (H1N1), a swine-origin influenza A virus, causes seasonal epidemics that result in severe illnesses and deaths. Leonurine has been reported to function as an anti-inflammatory agent with protective effects on nervous, urinary and cardiovascular systems. However, the therapeutic effects of leonurine on the pneumonia caused by H1N1 infection remain unclear. Hematoxylin and eosin staining was performed to evaluate the lung injuries of mice infected by H1N1. The amount of immune cells was analyzed by flow cytometry. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to evaluate the alteration of multiple cytokines in lung tissues. Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction assay was performed to investigate the ribonucleic acid (RNA) levels of certain genes. The protein levels in toll-like receptor 4/nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (TLR4/NF-κB) signaling were estimated by western blot assay. Leonurine treatment significantly inhibited the mortality caused by H1N1 infection. Leonurine treatment (60 mg/kg) alleviated the lung injuries caused by virus infection. The inflammatory cell accumulation and cytokine expression were inhibited by the leonurine administration. Leonurine inhibited the mRNA expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the lung homogenates at day 5 postinfection. Leonurine regulated the TLR4/NF-κB signaling in the lung homogenates of H1N1-infected mice at day 5 postinfection. Leonurine protects against H1N1 infection-induced pneumonia in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Nan Qiu
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Daqing Oilfield General Hospital, 9 Zhongkang Street, Daqing 163001, China
| | - Ya-Rong Tan
- Day Clinic Centre, Daqing Oilfield General Hospital, 9 Zhongkang Street, Daqing 163001, China
| | - Yu-Ju Luo
- Department of Medical Imaging, Daqing Oilfield General Hospital, 9 Zhongkang Street, Daqing 163001, China
| | - Xiao-Juan Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, Daqing Oilfield General Hospital, 9 Zhongkang Street, Daqing 163001, China
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25
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Zhao H, Xue S, Meng Q, Zhou C. In vitro study on the effect of leonurine hydrochloride on the enzyme activity of cytochrome P450 enzymes in human liver microsomes. Xenobiotica 2021; 51:977-982. [PMID: 34176447 DOI: 10.1080/00498254.2021.1947544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Leonurine hydrochloride (LH) is derived from an ingredient of Leonurus japonicus Houtt which is widely used for diseases in women.The influence of LH on the activity of cytochrome P450 (CYPs) enzymes was investigated in this study.The effect of LH on CYPs enzyme activities were studied using the enzyme-selective substrates phenacetin (1A2), coumarin (2A6), diclofenac (2C9), S-mephenytoin (2C19), paclitaxel (2C8), dextromethorphan (2D6), chlorzoxazone (2E1) and testosterone (3A4). The IC50 value was calculated to express the strength of inhibition. The inhibition of CYPs was fitted with competitive or non-competitive inhibition models and corresponding parameters were also obtained.LH exerted inhibitory effects on the activity of CYP1A2, 2D6, and 3A4 with the IC50 values of 18.05, 15.13, and 20.09 μM, respectively. The obtained results showed that LH inhibited the activity of CYP1A2 and CYP2D6 via competitive manners (Ki = 8.667 μM and Ki = 7.805 μM, respectively), while LH attenuated the CYP3A4 activity via a non-competitive manner (Ki = 9.507 μM). Moreover, LH showed time-dependent inhibition on CYP3A4 with the KI/Kinact value of 4.31/0.044 min-1·μM-1.The inhibition of CYP1A2, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4 by LH, demonstrated in vitro, indicated the potential herb-drug interaction. Therefore, pharmacokinetic interactions involving LH and CYP1A2 or CYP2D6 or CYP1A2 substrates are likely to occur.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Zhao
- Department of Nephrology, Yidu Central Hospital of Weifang, Weifang, Shandong, China
| | - Senyao Xue
- Department of Urology, Yidu Central Hospital of Weifang, Weifang, Shandong, China
| | - Qingzhen Meng
- Department of Intravenous Drug Allocation, Weifang Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Weifang, China
| | - Cui Zhou
- Department of Intravenous Drug Allocation, Weifang Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Weifang, China
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Wang R, Peng L, Lv D, Shang F, Yan J, Li G, Li D, Ouyang J, Yang J. Leonurine Attenuates Myocardial Fibrosis Through Upregulation of miR-29a-3p in Mice Post-myocardial Infarction. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol 2021; 77:189-199. [PMID: 33235025 DOI: 10.1097/fjc.0000000000000957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/31/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Myocardial fibrosis (MF) is a pathological process that accelerates cardiac remodeling in myocardial infarction (MI), and miR-29 has become one of the foci of research into MF. As an alkaloid extracted from Herba leonuri, leonurine (LE) has been found to be an effective natural active ingredient for inhibiting fibrosis in many preclinical experiments. However, whether LE protects against MF after MI through modifying miR-29 remains unclear. The present study aimed to investigate the therapeutic effects of LE on MF, and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms involved. A mouse model of MI was established, followed by administration of LE for 4 weeks. We found that LE effectively improved cardiac function, and attenuated fibrosis and cardiac remodeling in mice post-MI. In vitro, LE simultaneously inhibited proliferation and migration of neonatal mouse cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) exposed to angiotensin II (Ang II), and the activation of collagen synthesis and myofibroblast generation was markedly suppressed by LE. Notably, we found that all mature miR-29 family members were downregulated in the myocardial tissues of mice post-MI, whereas LE significantly upregulated miR-29a-3p expression, and such upregulation was also detected in LE-treated CFs under Ang II stimulation. Knockdown of miR-29a-3p by a specific miRNA inhibitor upregulated the protein levels of TGF-β, collagen III, and collagen I in CFs, and completely reversed the antifibrotic effects of LE on CFs. Our study suggests that LE exerts cardioprotective effects against MF, possibly through the upregulation of miR-29a-3p.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruiyu Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Linqian Peng
- Department of Cardiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Institute of Life Science, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Dingyi Lv
- Department of Cardiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Institute of Life Science, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Feifei Shang
- Institute of Life Science, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jianghong Yan
- Institute of Life Science, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Guoxing Li
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Dan Li
- Department of Cardiology, the People's Hospital of Bishan District, Chongqing, China
| | - Jing Ouyang
- Department of Pharmacy, Chongqing Public Health Medical Center, Chongqing, China; and
| | - Jiadan Yang
- Department of Pharmacy, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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Li Y, Xiang L, Wang C, Song Y, Miao J, Miao M. Protection against acute cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury by Leonuri Herba Total Alkali via modulation of BDNF-TrKB-PI3K/Akt signaling pathway in rats. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 133:111021. [PMID: 33227709 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2020.111021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2020] [Revised: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 11/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To observe the brain protective effect of Leonuri Herba Total Alkali (LHA) on cerebral ischemia reperfusion injury in rats, so as to provide basis for clinical research. METHODS Adult male SD rats were randomly assigned into sham group, middle cerebral artery occlusion/reperfusion (MCAO/R) group, and LHA + MCAO/R group (25 mg/kg, 50 mg/kg, and 100 mg/kg). Fourteen days before MCAO/R surgery, the rats in treatment groups were orally administered with LHA in ultrapure water once daily for 14 days, while rats in the sham and MCAO groups were given the same amount of saline in advance. After 1 h of administration on the 14th day, MCAO surgery was subjected. The neurological deficits, brain infarct volume, histopathology, immunofluorescence, inflammation indicators and the gene/protein expressions of BDNF-TrKB-PI3K/Akt signaling pathway in the rat brain tissue were evaluated 24 h after the MCAO/R-injury. RESULTS It was found that rats in LHA pre-administration group showed significantly reduced neurological deficit scores, infarction volume, the serum levels of NSE and S100β. Meanwhile, the content of Evans Blue (EB) in brain tissue from LHA group was decreased, as well as the levels of inflammatory cytokines and their gene levels. Moreover, LHA pre-administration inhibited the expression of CD44, GFAP, FOXO1 and promoted the expression of BDNF and NeuN. In addition, LHA pre-administration could up-regulate the protein expression of TrkB, p-PI3K, p-Akt, Bcl-2, and down-regulate the protein expression of Bax, and increase the level of Bcl-2/Bax. CONCLUSIONS The study demonstrated that LHA pre-administration could regulate the PI3K/Akt pathway by increasing BDNF levels, and play a neuroprotective role in cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Li
- School of Pharmacy, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450046, PR China
| | - Liling Xiang
- School of Pharmacy, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450046, PR China
| | - Can Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450046, PR China
| | - Yagang Song
- School of Pharmacy, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450046, PR China
| | - Jinxin Miao
- National International Cooperation Base of Chinese Medicine, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450046, PR China.
| | - Mingsan Miao
- National International Cooperation Base of Chinese Medicine, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450046, PR China.
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Lee J, Kim C, Lee, H, Hwang JK. Inhibitory Effects of Standardized Leonurus japonicus Extract and Its Bioactive Leonurine on TNF-α-Induced Muscle Atrophy in L6 Myotubes. J Microbiol Biotechnol 2020; 30:1896-1904. [PMID: 32627754 PMCID: PMC9728349 DOI: 10.4014/jmb.2005.05023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Revised: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Muscle atrophy, characterized by a reduced number and size of myofibers, occurs due to immobilization, aging, and several chronic diseases. Leonurus japonicus, belonging to the Labiatae family, is widely used as a traditional medicine in Korea, China, and Japan. Previous studies have reported that L. japonicus has various physiological activities, such as anti-bacteria, anti-cancer, and liver protection. Leonurine, which is a major bioactive in L. japonicas, is known to possess biological effects including anti-inflammation, anti-fibrosis, anti-angiogenesis, and anti-diabetes. However, the preventive effects of L. japonicas and leonurine on muscle have not been reported. The current study aimed to determine the inhibitory effects of standardized L. japonicus extract (LJE) and leonurine on muscle atrophy by clarifying their underlying molecular mechanisms in tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α)-stimulated L6 myotubes. LJE and leonurine stimulated the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Akt pathway that was reduced by TNF-α treatment. LJE and leonurine not only increased the mammalian target of rapamycin pathway for protein anabolism but also decreased the mRNA expression of E3 ubiquitin ligases by blocking the translocation of Forkhead box O, which is closely linked with proteolysis. Additionally, LJE and leonurine alleviated inflammatory responses by downregulating TNF-α and interleukin-6 mRNA expression and reducing the protein expression of nuclear factor-kappa B, a major transcriptional factor of proinflammatory cytokines. Collectively, LJE and leonurine have potential as therapeutic candidates for inhibiting the development of skeletal muscle atrophy by activating the PI3K/Akt pathway and reducing inflammatory responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiyeon Lee
- Department of Biomaterials Science and Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea,R&D Center, FND Net, Seoul 05706, Republic of Korea
| | - Changhee Kim
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul 0722, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyerin Lee,
- Graduate Program in Bioindustrial Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Kwan Hwang
- Department of Biomaterials Science and Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea,Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul 0722, Republic of Korea,Graduate Program in Bioindustrial Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea,Corresponding authors Phone: +82-2-362-7265 Fax: +82-2-2123-5881 E-mail:
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Xu W, Cui J, Zhou F, Bai M, Deng R, Wang W. Leonurine protects against dexamethasone-induced cytotoxicity in pancreatic β-cells via PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2020; 529:652-658. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2020.05.184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
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Luo S, Xu S, Liu J, Ma F, Zhu YZ. Design and synthesis of novel SCM-198 analogs as cardioprotective agents: Structure-activity relationship studies and biological evaluations. Eur J Med Chem 2020; 200:112469. [PMID: 32485530 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2020.112469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
SCM-198 (Leonurine) has attracted great attention due to its cardioprotective effects in myocardial infarction (MI). However, no systematic modifications and structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies could be traced so far. In this study, 35 analogs of SCM-198 were designed, synthesized and their cardioprotective effects were evaluated. The cell viability assay on cardiomyocyte cell line H9c2 challenged with H2O2 showed that several analogs exhibited more potent cytoprotective effects than SCM-198 at 1 μM and 10 μM concentrations. LDH release level in cells treated with 1 μM 14o was comparable with cells treated with 10 μM SCM-198. Results of Bcl-2 expression and caspase-3 activation accordingly indicated higher protective activity of 14o than SCM-198. Moreover, in a mouse model of MI, the mice pretreated with 14o had much lower infarct size compared with that of SCM-198. The mechanism study suggested that 14o improved cardiac morphology and reduced apoptosis of cardiomyocytes in the border zone of infarction, as proved by H&E and TUNEL staining.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanshan Luo
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, 101 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, 211166, PR China; Pharmacy and State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, PR China; Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, PR China
| | - Shengtao Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tong Jia Xiang, Nanjing, 210009, PR China
| | - Junkai Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tong Jia Xiang, Nanjing, 210009, PR China
| | - Fenfen Ma
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Pudong Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 201399, PR China
| | - Yi Zhun Zhu
- Pharmacy and State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, PR China; Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, PR China.
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