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Zhang H, Cao D, Xu T, Chen E, Li G, Chen Y, Payne P, Province M, Li F. mosGraphFlow: a novel integrative graph AI model mining disease targets from multi-omic data. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.08.01.606219. [PMID: 39282361 PMCID: PMC11398418 DOI: 10.1101/2024.08.01.606219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/22/2024]
Abstract
Multi-omic data can better characterize complex cellular signaling pathways from multiple views compared to individual omic data. However, integrative multi-omic data analysis to rank key disease biomarkers and infer core signaling pathways remains an open problem. In this study, our novel contributions are that we developed a novel graph AI model, mosGraphFlow, for analyzing multi-omic signaling graphs (mosGraphs), 2) analyzed multi-omic mosGraph datasets of AD, and 3) identified, visualized and evaluated a set of AD associated signaling biomarkers and network. The comparison results show that the proposed model not only achieves the best classification accuracy but also identifies important AD disease biomarkers and signaling interactions. Moreover, the signaling sources are highlighted at specific omic levels to facilitate the understanding of the pathogenesis of AD. The proposed model can also be applied and expanded for other studies using multi-omic data. Model code is accessible via GitHub: https://github.com/FuhaiLiAiLab/mosGraphFlow.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heming Zhang
- Institute for Informatics, Data Science and Biostatistics (I2DB), Washington University School of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Dekang Cao
- Institute for Informatics, Data Science and Biostatistics (I2DB), Washington University School of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Washington University School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Tim Xu
- Institute for Informatics, Data Science and Biostatistics (I2DB), Washington University School of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Washington University School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Emily Chen
- Institute for Informatics, Data Science and Biostatistics (I2DB), Washington University School of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
- School of Arts and Sciences, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, 14627, USA
| | - Guangfu Li
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Connecticut, CT, 06032, USA
| | - Yixin Chen
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Washington University School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Philip Payne
- Institute for Informatics, Data Science and Biostatistics (I2DB), Washington University School of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Michael Province
- Division of Statistical Genomics, Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Fuhai Li
- Institute for Informatics, Data Science and Biostatistics (I2DB), Washington University School of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
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Zhang XY, Wang X, Ye T, Shao N, Wang J, Cai B, Xie DJ. Network pharmacology-based approach to understand the effect and mechanism of chrysophanol against cognitive impairment in Wilson disease. Metab Brain Dis 2024; 39:89-99. [PMID: 37999884 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-023-01321-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
Wilson disease (WD) is a rare hereditary copper metabolism disorder, wherein cognitive impairment is a common clinical symptom. Chrysophanol (CHR) is an active compound with neuroprotective effects. The study aims to investigate the neuroprotective effect of CHR in WD and attempted to understand the potential mechanisms. Network pharmacology analysis was applied to predict the core target genes of CHR against cognitive impairment in WD. The rats fed with copper-laden diet for 12 weeks, and the effect of CHR on the copper content in liver and 24-h urine, the learning and memory ability, the morphological changes and the apoptosis level of neurons in hippocampal CA1 region, the expression level of Bax, Bcl-2, Cleaved Caspase-3, p-PI3K, PI3K, p-AKT, and AKT proteins were detected. Network pharmacology analysis showed that cell apoptosis and PI3K-AKT signaling pathway might be the main participants in CHR against cognitive impairment in WD. The experiments showed that CHR could reduce the copper content in liver, increase the copper content in 24-h urine, improve the ability of the learning and memory, alleviate the damage and apoptosis level of hippocampal neurons, down-regulate the expression of Bax, Cleaved Caspase-3, and up-regulate the expressions of Bcl-2, p-PI3K/PI3K, p-AKT/AKT. These results suggested that CHR could alleviate cognitive impairment in WD by inhibiting cell apoptosis and triggering the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Yan Zhang
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, 230012, People's Republic of China
| | - Xie Wang
- The First Clinical Medical College, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, 230031, People's Republic of China
| | - Ting Ye
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, 230012, People's Republic of China
| | - Nan Shao
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, 230012, People's Republic of China
| | - Jie Wang
- School of Nursing, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, 230012, People's Republic of China
| | - Biao Cai
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, 230012, People's Republic of China
| | - Dao-Jun Xie
- Encephalopathy Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, 230031, People's Republic of China.
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Luo J, Lu Q, Sun B, Shao N, Huang W, Hu G, Cai B, Si W. Chrysophanol improves memory impairment and cell injury by reducing the level of ferroptosis in A β25-35 treated rat and PC12 cells. 3 Biotech 2023; 13:348. [PMID: 37780805 PMCID: PMC10539257 DOI: 10.1007/s13205-023-03769-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a common age-related chronic and neurodegenerative disease that has become a global health problem. AD pathogenesis is complex, and the clinical efficacy of commonly used anti-AD drugs is suboptimal. Recent research has revealed a close association between AD-induced damage and the activation of ferroptosis signaling pathways. Chrysophanol (CHR) the principal medicinal component of Rhubarb, has been reported to have anti-AD effects and can reduce ROS levels in AD-damaged models. AD has been linked to the activation of ferroptosis signaling pathways, which has an important feature of higher levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Therefore, the present study explored whether CHR had an anti-AD effect by regulating the ferroptosis levels in AD injury models. Morris water maze, novel object recognition test, Y-maze test, Hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) staining, western blotting, ROS measurement, GPx activity measurement, LPO measurement, transmission electron microscopy, live/dead cell staining were used to investigate the changes in spatial memory level and ferroptosis level in AD model, and the intervention effect of CHR. CHR improved the spatial memory level of AD rat models, reduced the level of hippocampal neuron damage, and improved the survival rate of PC12 cells damaged by β-amyloid (Aβ). Meanwhile, CHR increased glutathione peroxidase-4 (GPX4) protein expression, GPx activity, and GSH, decreased ROS and LPO levels in AD rat models and Aβ-damaged PC12 cells, and improved mitochondrial pathological damage. Our findings suggest that CHR may play a protective role in AD injury by lowering ferroptosis levels, which may provide a potential pathway for developing drugs for AD. However, the mechanism of CHR's role requires further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Luo
- College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012 China
| | - Qingyang Lu
- College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012 China
| | - Bin Sun
- College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012 China
| | - Nan Shao
- College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012 China
| | - Wei Huang
- College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012 China
| | - Guanhua Hu
- College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012 China
| | - Biao Cai
- College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012 China
- Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012 China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei, 230012 China
| | - Wenwen Si
- College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012 China
- Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012 China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei, 230012 China
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Li C, Gao F, Qu Y, Zhao P, Wang X, Zhu G. Tenuifolin in the prevention of Alzheimer's disease-like phenotypes: Investigation of the mechanisms from the perspectives of calpain system, ferroptosis, and apoptosis. Phytother Res 2023:4621-4638. [PMID: 37364988 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7930] [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: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 04/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Polygala tenuifolia was documented to calm the mind and promote wisdom. However, its underlying mechanisms are still unclear. This study aimed to investigate the mechanisms underlying the effects of tenuifolin (Ten) on Alzheimer's disease (AD)-like phenotypes. We first applied bioinformatics methods to screen the mechanisms of P. tenuifolia in the treatment of AD. Thereafter, the d-galactose combined with Aβ1-42 (GCA) was applied to model AD-like behaviors and investigate the action mechanisms of Ten, one active component of P. tenuifolia. The data showed that P. tenuifolia actioned through multi-targets and multi-pathways, including regulation of synaptic plasticity, apoptosis, and calcium signaling, and so forth. Furthermore, in vitro experiments demonstrated that Ten prevented intracellular calcium overload, abnormal calpain system, and down-regulation of BDNF/TrkB signaling induced by GCA. Moreover, Ten suppressed oxidative stress and ferroptosis in HT-22 cells induced by GCA. Calpeptin and ferroptosis inhibitor prevented the decrease of cell viability induced by GCA. Interestingly, calpeptin did not interrupt GCA-induced ferroptosis in HT-22 cells but blocked the apoptosis. Animal experiments further demonstrated that Ten prevented GCA-induced memory impairment in mice and increased synaptic protein expression while reducing m-calpain expression. Ten prevents AD-like phenotypes through multiple signaling by inhibiting oxidative stress and ferroptosis, maintaining the stability of calpain system, and suppressing neuronal apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Congting Li
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, The Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology (Brain Diseases) and Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Chinese Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Feng Gao
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, The Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology (Brain Diseases) and Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Chinese Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Yan Qu
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, The Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology (Brain Diseases) and Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Chinese Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Panpan Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, The Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology (Brain Diseases) and Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Chinese Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Xuncui Wang
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, The Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology (Brain Diseases) and Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Chinese Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Guoqi Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, The Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology (Brain Diseases) and Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Chinese Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
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Zhang M, Ding ZX, Huang W, Luo J, Ye S, Hu SL, Zhou P, Cai B. Chrysophanol exerts a protective effect against Aβ 25-35-induced Alzheimer's disease model through regulating the ROS/TXNIP/NLRP3 pathway. Inflammopharmacology 2023; 31:1511-1527. [PMID: 36976486 DOI: 10.1007/s10787-023-01201-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The primary pathogenic factors of Alzheimer's disease (AD) have been identified as oxidative stress, inflammatory damage, and apoptosis. Chrysophanol (CHR) has a good neuroprotective effect on AD, however, the potential mechanism of CHR remains unclear. PURPOSE In this study, we focused on the ROS/TXNIP/NLRP3 pathway to determine whether CHR regulates oxidative stress and neuroinflammation. METHODS D-galactose and Aβ25-35 combination were used to build an in vivo model of AD, and the Y-maze test was used to evaluate the learning and memory function of rats. Morphological changes of neurons in the rat hippocampus were observed using hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining. AD cell model was established by Aβ25-35 in PC12 cells. The DCFH-DA test identified reactive oxygen species (ROS). The apoptosis rate was determined using Hoechst33258 and flow cytometry. In addition, the levels of MDA, LDH, T-SOD, CAT, and GSH in serum, cell, and cell culture supernatant were detected by colorimetric method. The protein and mRNA expressions of the targets were detected by Western blot and RT-PCR. Finally, molecular docking was used to further verify the in vivo and in vitro experimental results. RESULTS CHR could significantly improve learning and memory impairment, reduce hippocampal neuron damage, and reduce ROS production and apoptosis in AD rats. CHR could improve the survival rate, and reduce the oxidative stress and apoptosis in the AD cell model. Moreover, CHR significantly decreased the levels of MDA and LDH, and increased the activities of T-SOD, CAT, and GSH in the AD model. Mechanically, CHR significantly reduced the protein and mRNA expression of TXNIP, NLRP3, Caspase-1, IL-1β, and IL-18, and increase TRX. CONCLUSIONS CHR exerts neuroprotective effects on the Aβ25-35-induced AD model mainly by reducing oxidative stress and neuroinflammation, and the mechanism may be related to ROS/TXNIP/NLRP3 signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Zhang
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine (Anhui University of Chinese Medicine), Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhi-Xian Ding
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine (Anhui University of Chinese Medicine), Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Huang
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine (Anhui University of Chinese Medicine), Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Luo
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine (Anhui University of Chinese Medicine), Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, People's Republic of China
| | - Shu Ye
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine (Anhui University of Chinese Medicine), Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, People's Republic of China
| | - Sheng-Lin Hu
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine (Anhui University of Chinese Medicine), Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, People's Republic of China
| | - Peng Zhou
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine (Anhui University of Chinese Medicine), Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, People's Republic of China.
| | - Biao Cai
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine (Anhui University of Chinese Medicine), Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, People's Republic of China.
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Gao H, Lei X, Ye S, Ye T, Hua R, Wang G, Song H, Zhou P, Wang Y, Cai B. Genistein attenuates memory impairment in Alzheimer's disease via ERS-mediated apoptotic pathway in vivo and in vitro. J Nutr Biochem 2022; 109:109118. [PMID: 35933022 DOI: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2022.109118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Revised: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Genistein (GS), an isoflavone compound found in soybean, plays a neuroprotective role in Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, the mechanism of its action remains unclear. Herein, binding ability between GS and GRP78 was predicted by molecular docking, and the effect of GS in vivo and vitro were further studied. In this study, the effects of GS on learning and memory ability, changes of hippocampal neurons and ultrastructure of hippocampal CA3 region in AD rats were investigated. Besides, the protein or mRNA levels of the related proteins were detected. The results showed GS could effectively improve the learning and the memory ability, reduce the damage of hippocampal neurons, and decrease the protein or mRNA expression levels of GRP78, CHOP, Caspase-12, Cle-Caspase-9, Cle-Caspase-3, PERK, and p-PERK. Taken together, our data reveal GS has a neuroprotective effect by inhibiting the ERS-mediated apoptotic pathway, which may be a new therapeutic target for the treatment of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huawu Gao
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Xin Lei
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Shu Ye
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China; Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei, China
| | - Ting Ye
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Rupeng Hua
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Guoquan Wang
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Hang Song
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Peng Zhou
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China; Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei, China.
| | - Yan Wang
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China; Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei, China.
| | - Biao Cai
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China; Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei, China.
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Liu X, Zhang X, Chen J, Song D, Zhang C, Chen R, Xu R, Jiang W, Li L. Chrysophanol facilitates long-term neurological recovery through limiting microglia-mediated neuroinflammation after ischemic stroke in mice. Int Immunopharmacol 2022; 112:109220. [PMID: 36095949 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2022.109220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Revised: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inflammation plays an important role in ischemic brain injury and affects brain recovery and neuroplasticity. Chrysophanol (CHR), has attracted attention for its protective effects through immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties. However, the effect of CHR for brain recovery and neuroplasticity is not clear. The current study aimed to investigate the effect of CHR in the chronic phase of stroke in mice, and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. METHODS C57BL/6 mice were subjected to treatment with Vehicle or CHR immediately through intraperitoneal injection daily for 14 d after distal middle cerebral artery occlusion (dMCAO). Neurological deficits were monitored up to 28 days after stroke. Nissl and Golgi stain, neural plasticity, and microglia-associated inflammatory cytokines were detected. Primary cortical neuron and BV2 microglia cell lines were employed to explore the underlying mechanism in vitro. RESULTS Compared with Vehicle group, CHR mitigated the histological damage, facilitated the neural plasticity and improved the neurological function up to 4 weeks after stroke. In vitro, CHR promoted the complexity of neurons and the spine density by modulating microglial polarization and reducing the expression of microglia-associated inflammatory cytokines, especially IL-6. In vivo, microglia activation and inflammatory cytokines were significantly increased after dMCAO and downregulated by CHR. Further investigation showed STAT3 is the major downstream effector of IL-6 signaling. CONCLUSIONS CHR ameliorated microenvironment for neural plasticity and exhibited neuroprotection via arresting microglia toward pro-inflammatory phenotype and downregulation of the expressions of pro-inflammatory cytokines, especially of IL-6. IL-6-STAT3 signaling might be CHR's therapeutic target for neuroinflammatory responses after stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxia Liu
- Department of Neurology, Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China; Hebei Key Laboratory of Vascular Homeostasis and Hebei Collaborative Innovation Center for Cardio-cerebrovascular Disease, 215 Hepingxi Road, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, China
| | - Xiangjian Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China; Hebei Key Laboratory of Vascular Homeostasis and Hebei Collaborative Innovation Center for Cardio-cerebrovascular Disease, 215 Hepingxi Road, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, China.
| | - Junmin Chen
- Department of Neurology, Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China; Hebei Key Laboratory of Vascular Homeostasis and Hebei Collaborative Innovation Center for Cardio-cerebrovascular Disease, 215 Hepingxi Road, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, China
| | - Degang Song
- Department of Neurology, Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China; Hebei Key Laboratory of Vascular Homeostasis and Hebei Collaborative Innovation Center for Cardio-cerebrovascular Disease, 215 Hepingxi Road, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, China; Department of Neurology, First Hospital of Qinhuangdao, Hebei 066000, China
| | - Cong Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China; Hebei Key Laboratory of Vascular Homeostasis and Hebei Collaborative Innovation Center for Cardio-cerebrovascular Disease, 215 Hepingxi Road, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, China
| | - Rong Chen
- Department of Neurology, Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China; Hebei Key Laboratory of Vascular Homeostasis and Hebei Collaborative Innovation Center for Cardio-cerebrovascular Disease, 215 Hepingxi Road, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, China
| | - Renhao Xu
- Department of Neurology, Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China; Hebei Key Laboratory of Vascular Homeostasis and Hebei Collaborative Innovation Center for Cardio-cerebrovascular Disease, 215 Hepingxi Road, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, China
| | - Wei Jiang
- Department of Neurology, Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China; Hebei Key Laboratory of Vascular Homeostasis and Hebei Collaborative Innovation Center for Cardio-cerebrovascular Disease, 215 Hepingxi Road, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, China
| | - Li Li
- Department of Neurology, Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China; Hebei Key Laboratory of Vascular Homeostasis and Hebei Collaborative Innovation Center for Cardio-cerebrovascular Disease, 215 Hepingxi Road, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, China
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Neuroprotective Effect of Chrysophanol as a PI3K/AKT/mTOR Signaling Inhibitor in an Experimental Model of Autologous Blood-induced Intracerebral Hemorrhage. Curr Med Sci 2022; 42:249-266. [PMID: 35079960 DOI: 10.1007/s11596-022-2496-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) refers to predominant, sporadic, and non-traumatic bleeding in the brain parenchyma. The PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway is an important signal transduction pathway regulated by enzyme-linked receptors and has many biological functions in mammals. It plays a key role in neuronal metabolism, gene expression regulation, and tissue homeostasis in the healthy and diseased brain. METHODS In the present study, the role of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway inhibitor chrysophanol (CPH) (10 mg/kg and 20 mg/kg, orally) in the improvement of ICH-associated neurological defects in rats was investigated. Autologous blood (20 µL/5 min/unilateral/intracerebroventricular) mimics ICH-like defects involving cellular and molecular dysfunction and neurotransmitter imbalance. The current study also included various behavioral assessments to examine cognition, memory, and motor and neuromuscular coordination. The protein expression levels of PI3K, AKT, and mTOR as well as myelin basic protein and apoptotic markers, such as Bax, Bcl-2, and caspase-3, were examined using ELISA kits. Furthermore, the levels of various neuroinflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress markers were assessed. Additionally, the neurological severity score, brain water content, gross brain pathology, and hematoma size were used to indicate neurological function and brain edema. RESULTS CPH was found to be neuroprotective by restoring neurobehavioral alterations and significantly reducing the elevated PI3K, AKT, and mTOR protein levels, and modulating the apoptotic markers such as Bax, Bcl-2, and caspase-3 in rat brain homogenate. CPH substantially reduced the inflammatory cytokines like interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α. CPH administration restored the neurotransmitters GABA, glutamate, acetylcholine, dopamine, and various oxidative stress markers. CONCLUSION Our results show that CPH may be a promising therapeutic approach for overcoming neuronal damage caused by the overexpression of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway in ICH-induced neurological dysfunctions in rats.
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Novel Balance Mechanism Participates in Stem Cell Therapy to Alleviate Neuropathology and Cognitive Impairment in Animal Models with Alzheimer's Disease. Cells 2021; 10:cells10102757. [PMID: 34685737 PMCID: PMC8534506 DOI: 10.3390/cells10102757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Stem cell therapy improves memory loss and cognitive deficits in animal models with Alzheimer's disease. The underlying mechanism remains to be determined, but it may involve the interaction of stem cells with hippocampal cells. The transplantation of stem cells alters the pathological state and establishes a novel balance based on multiple signaling pathways. The new balance mechanism is regulated by various autocrine and paracrine cytokines, including signal molecules that target (a) cell growth and death. Stem cell treatment stimulates neurogenesis and inhibits apoptosis, which is regulated by the crosstalk between apoptosis and autophagy-(b) Aβ and tau pathology. Aberrant Aβ plaques and neurofibrillary tau tangles are mitigated subsequent to stem cell intervention-(c) inflammation. Neuroinflammation in the lesion is relieved, which may be related to the microglial M1/M2 polarization-(d) immunoregulation. The transplanted stem cells modulate immune cells and shape the pathophysiological roles of immune-related genes such as TREM2, CR1, and CD33-(e) synaptogenesis. The functional reconstruction of synaptic connections can be promoted by stem cell therapy through multi-level signaling, such as autophagy, microglial activity, and remyelination. The regulation of new balance mechanism provides perspective and challenge for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.
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Flores-Cuadra JA, Madrid A, Fernández PL, Pérez-Lao AR, Oviedo DC, Britton GB, Carreira MB. Critical Review of the Alzheimer's Disease Non-Transgenic Models: Can They Contribute to Disease Treatment? J Alzheimers Dis 2020; 82:S227-S250. [PMID: 33216029 DOI: 10.3233/jad-200870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a growing neurodegenerative disease without effective treatments or therapies. Despite the use of different approaches and an extensive variety of genetic amyloid based models, therapeutic strategies remain elusive. AD is characterized by three main pathological hallmarks that include amyloid-β plaques, neurofibrillary tangles, and neuroinflammatory processes; however, many other pathological mechanisms have been described in the literature. Nonetheless, the study of the disease and the screening of potential therapies is heavily weighted toward the study of amyloid-β transgenic models. Non-transgenic models may aid in the study of complex pathological states and provide a suitable complementary alternative to evaluating therapeutic biomedical and intervention strategies. In this review, we evaluate the literature on non-transgenic alternatives, focusing on the use of these models for testing therapeutic strategies, and assess their contribution to understanding AD. This review aims to underscore the need for a shift in preclinical research on intervention strategies for AD from amyloid-based to alternative, complementary non-amyloid approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julio A Flores-Cuadra
- Centro de Neurociencias, Instituto de Investigaciones Científicas y Servicios de Alta Tecnología (INDICASAT AIP), Panamá, República de Panamá
| | - Alanna Madrid
- Centro de Neurociencias, Instituto de Investigaciones Científicas y Servicios de Alta Tecnología (INDICASAT AIP), Panamá, República de Panamá
| | - Patricia L Fernández
- Centro de Biología Celular y Molecular de Enfermedades, Instituto de Investigaciones Científicas y Servicios de Alta Tecnología (INDICASAT AIP), Panamá, República de Panamá
| | - Ambar R Pérez-Lao
- Centro de Neurociencias, Instituto de Investigaciones Científicas y Servicios de Alta Tecnología (INDICASAT AIP), Panamá, República de Panamá
| | - Diana C Oviedo
- Centro de Neurociencias, Instituto de Investigaciones Científicas y Servicios de Alta Tecnología (INDICASAT AIP), Panamá, República de Panamá.,Escuela de Psicología, Facultad de Ciencias Sociales, Universidad Católica Santa María La Antigua (USMA), Panamá
| | - Gabrielle B Britton
- Centro de Neurociencias, Instituto de Investigaciones Científicas y Servicios de Alta Tecnología (INDICASAT AIP), Panamá, República de Panamá
| | - Maria B Carreira
- Centro de Neurociencias, Instituto de Investigaciones Científicas y Servicios de Alta Tecnología (INDICASAT AIP), Panamá, República de Panamá
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Boiangiu RS, Mihasan M, Gorgan DL, Stache BA, Petre BA, Hritcu L. Cotinine and 6-Hydroxy-L-Nicotine Reverses Memory Deficits and Reduces Oxidative Stress in Aβ 25-35-Induced Rat Model of Alzheimer's Disease. Antioxidants (Basel) 2020; 9:E768. [PMID: 32824768 PMCID: PMC7465470 DOI: 10.3390/antiox9080768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2020] [Revised: 08/08/2020] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The nicotinic derivatives, cotinine (COT), and 6-hydroxy-L-nicotine (6HLN), showed promising cognitive-improving effects without exhibiting the nicotine's side-effects. Here, we investigated the impact of COT and 6HLN on memory impairment and the oxidative stress in the Aβ25-35-induced rat model of Alzheimer's disease (AD). COT and 6HLN were chronically administered to Aβ25-35-treated rats, and their memory performances were assessed using in vivo tasks (Y-maze, novel object recognition, and radial arm maze). By using in silico tools, we attempted to associate the behavioral outcomes with the calculated binding potential of these nicotinic compounds in the allosteric sites of α7 and α4β2 subtypes of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs). The oxidative status and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity were determined from the hippocampal tissues. RT-qPCR assessed bdnf, arc, and il-1β mRNA levels. Our data revealed that COT and 6HLN could bind to α7 and α4β2 nAChRs with similar or even higher affinity than nicotine. Consequently, the treatment exhibited a pro-cognitive, antioxidant, and anti-AChE profile in the Aβ25-35-induced rat model of AD. Finally, RT-qPCR analysis revealed that COT and 6HLN positively modulated the bdnf, arc, and il-1β genes expression. Therefore, these nicotinic derivatives that act on the cholinergic system might represent a promising choice to ameliorate AD conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Razvan Stefan Boiangiu
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Biology, Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iasi, 700506 Iasi, Romania; (R.S.B.); (M.M.); (D.L.G.); (B.A.S.)
| | - Marius Mihasan
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Biology, Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iasi, 700506 Iasi, Romania; (R.S.B.); (M.M.); (D.L.G.); (B.A.S.)
| | - Dragos Lucian Gorgan
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Biology, Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iasi, 700506 Iasi, Romania; (R.S.B.); (M.M.); (D.L.G.); (B.A.S.)
| | - Bogdan Alexandru Stache
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Biology, Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iasi, 700506 Iasi, Romania; (R.S.B.); (M.M.); (D.L.G.); (B.A.S.)
- Center for Fundamental Research and Experimental Development in Translation Medicine—TRANSCEND, Regional Institute of Oncology, 700483 Iasi, Romania;
| | - Brindusa Alina Petre
- Center for Fundamental Research and Experimental Development in Translation Medicine—TRANSCEND, Regional Institute of Oncology, 700483 Iasi, Romania;
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iasi, 700506 Iasi, Romania
| | - Lucian Hritcu
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Biology, Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iasi, 700506 Iasi, Romania; (R.S.B.); (M.M.); (D.L.G.); (B.A.S.)
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Chen DB, Gao HW, Peng C, Pei SQ, Dai AR, Yu XT, Zhou P, Wang Y, Cai B. Quinones as preventive agents in Alzheimer's diseases: focus on NLRP3 inflammasomes. J Pharm Pharmacol 2020; 72:1481-1490. [PMID: 32667050 DOI: 10.1111/jphp.13332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2020] [Revised: 06/14/2020] [Accepted: 06/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a hidden neurological degenerative disease, which main clinical manifestations are cognitive dysfunction, memory impairment and mental disorders. Neuroinflammation is considered as a basic response of the central nervous system. NLRP3 (Nucleotide-binding domain leucine-rich repeat (NLR) and pyrin domain containing receptor 3) inflammasome is closely related to the occurrence of neuroinflammation. Activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome results in the release of cytokines, pore formation and ultimately pyroptosis, which has demonstrated one of the critical roles in AD pathogenesis. Inhibition of the activity of NLRP3 is one of the focuses of the research. Therefore, NLRP3 represents an attractive pharmacological target, and discovery compounds with good NLRP3 inhibitory activity are particularly important. KEY FINDINGS Quinones have good neuroprotective effects and prevent AD, which may be related to their regulation of inflammatory response. The molecular docking was used to explore 12 quinones with AD prevention and treatment and NLRP3. Docking results showed that the combination of anthraquinones and NLRP3 were the best, and the top two chemical compounds were Purpurin and Rhein, which are the most promising NLRP3 inhibitors. SUMMARY These quinones may provide the theoretical basis for finding lead compounds for novel neuroprotective agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Da-Bao Chen
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Hua-Wu Gao
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Cheng Peng
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Shao-Qiang Pei
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - An-Ran Dai
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Xue-Ting Yu
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Peng Zhou
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China.,Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China.,Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei, China
| | - Yan Wang
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China.,Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China.,Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei, China
| | - Biao Cai
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China.,Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China.,Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei, China
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Ye T, Gao HW, Xuan WT, Ye S, Zhou P, Li XQ, Wang Y, Song H, Liu YY, Cai B. The Regulating Mechanism of Chrysophanol on Protein Level of CaM-CaMKIV to Protect PC12 Cells Against Aβ 25-35-Induced Damage. DRUG DESIGN DEVELOPMENT AND THERAPY 2020; 14:2715-2723. [PMID: 32764873 PMCID: PMC7381772 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s245128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Objective To investigate the neuroprotective effect of chrysophanol (CHR) on PC12 treated with Aβ25-35, and the involved mechanism. Methods After the establishment of an AD cell model induced by Aβ25-35, the cell survival rate was detected by MTT, cell apoptosis was assayed by Hoechst 33342 staining, mRNA expressions of calmodulin (CaM), calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase kinase (CaMKK), calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase IV (CaMKIV) and tau (MAPT; commonly known as tau) were determined by qRT-PCR, and protein levels of CaM, CaMKK, CaMKIV, phospho-CaMKIV (p-CaMKIV), tau and phospho-tau (p-tau) were detected by Western blot analysis. Results When pretreated with CHR before exposure to Aβ25-35, PC12 cells showed that increased cell viability and reduced apoptosis. The qRT-PCR results indicated that the deposition of Aβ25-35 triggers a decrease in levels of CaM, CaMKK, CaMKIV, and tau in PC12 cells. In addition, Western blot results also suggested that Aβ25-35 decreases the protein expression of CaM, CaMKK, CaMKIV, p-CaMKIV, and the ratio of p-tau to tau in PC12 cells. However, the above effects were significantly alleviated after the treatment of CHR. Conclusion CHR plays a neuroprotective role in AD though decreasing the protein level of CaM-CaMKK-CaMKIV and the expression of p-tau downstream.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Ye
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, People's Republic of China
| | - Hua-Wu Gao
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei-Ting Xuan
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, People's Republic of China
| | - Shu Ye
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, People's Republic of China.,Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, People's Republic of China.,Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei 230012, People's Republic of China
| | - Peng Zhou
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, People's Republic of China.,Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, People's Republic of China.,Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei 230012, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin-Quan Li
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, People's Republic of China
| | - Yan Wang
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, People's Republic of China.,Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, People's Republic of China.,Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei 230012, People's Republic of China
| | - Hang Song
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, People's Republic of China.,Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, People's Republic of China
| | - Yan-Yan Liu
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, People's Republic of China.,Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, People's Republic of China
| | - Biao Cai
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, People's Republic of China.,Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, People's Republic of China.,Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei 230012, People's Republic of China
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