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Yuan C, Yu C, Sun Q, Xiong M, Ren B, Zhong M, Peng Q, Zeng M, Meng P, Li L, Song H. Atractylenolide I Alleviates Indomethacin-Induced Gastric Ulcers in Rats by Inhibiting NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2024; 72:14165-14176. [PMID: 38872428 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.3c08188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz, a traditional Chinese medicine, contains atractylenolide I (ATR-I), which has potential anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and immune-modulating properties. This study evaluated the therapeutic potential of ATR-I for indomethacin (IND)-induced gastric mucosal lesions and its underlying mechanisms. Noticeable improvements were observed in the histological morphology and ultrastructures of the rat gastric mucosa after ATR-I treatment. There was improved blood flow, a significant decrease in the expression of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-1β, and IL-18, and a marked increase in prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) expression in ATR-I-treated rats. Furthermore, there was a significant decrease in the mRNA and protein expression levels of NOD-like receptor thermal protein domain associated protein 3 (NLRP3), apoptosis-associated speck-like protein (ASC), cysteinyl aspartate specific proteinase-1 (caspase-1), and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) in rats treated with ATR-I. The results show that ATR-I inhibits the NLRP3 inflammasome signaling pathway and effectively alleviates local inflammation, thereby improving the therapeutic outcomes against IND-induced gastric ulcers in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengzhi Yuan
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Diagnostics, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, China
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine Diagnostics, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, China
- Medical School, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, China
| | - Chang Yu
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Diagnostics, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, China
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine Diagnostics, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, China
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, China
| | - Qifang Sun
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Diagnostics, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, China
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine Diagnostics, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, China
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, China
| | - Meng Xiong
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Diagnostics, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, China
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine Diagnostics, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, China
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, China
| | - Baoping Ren
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Diagnostics, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, China
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine Diagnostics, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, China
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, China
| | - Meiqi Zhong
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Diagnostics, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, China
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine Diagnostics, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, China
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, China
| | - Qinghua Peng
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Diagnostics, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, China
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine Diagnostics, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, China
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, China
| | - Meiyan Zeng
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, China
| | - Pan Meng
- School of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, China
| | - Liang Li
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Diagnostics, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, China
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine Diagnostics, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, China
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, China
| | - Houpan Song
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Diagnostics, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, China
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine Diagnostics, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, China
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, China
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Chu S, Yang W, Lu Y, Li J, Peng J, Liu W, Jiang M, Bai G. Tetrandrine inhibits aldosterone synthesis by covalently targeting CYP11A1 to attenuate hypertension. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1387756. [PMID: 38948468 PMCID: PMC11211567 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1387756] [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: 02/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Tetrandrine (Tet) is the main pharmacological component of Stephania tetrandra S. Moore, which is a well-documented traditional Chinese medicine known for its diuretic and antihypertensive properties. Unraveling the specific targets and mechanisms of Tet involved in inducing diuresis and mitigating hypertension can provide valuable insights into its therapeutic effects. This study aimed to explore the diuretic and antihypertensive targets and mechanisms of Tet using chemical biology coupled with activity analyses in vivo and in vitro. Methods The diuretic effects of Tet were evaluated using a water-loaded mouse model. The direct target proteins for the diuretic and antihypertensive effects of Tet were determined using chemical biology. Furthermore, the molecular mechanism of Tet binding to target proteins was analyzed using a multidisciplinary approach based on the structure and function of the proteins. Finally, the effects of the Tet-targeted protein on downstream signaling pathways and blood pressure were evaluated in hypertensive model rats. Results Tet exhibited significant antihypertensive and potassium-preserving diuretic effects. The mechanism underlying these effects involves the modulation of the enzyme activity by covalent binding of Tet to Cys423 of CYP11A1. This interaction alters the stability of heme within CYP11A1, subsequently impeding electron transfer and inhibiting aldosterone biosynthesis. Discussion This study not only revealed the mechanism of the diuretic and antihypertensive effects of Tet but also discovered a novel covalent inhibitor of CYP11A1. These findings contribute significantly to our understanding of the therapeutic potential of Tet and provide a foundation for future research in the development of targeted treatments for hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simeng Chu
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Wei Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yujie Lu
- College of Life Health, Dalian University, Dalian, China
| | - Junjie Li
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Jiamin Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Wenjuan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Min Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Gang Bai
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
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Li J, Wang Y, Li J, Xu S, Wang S, Liu W, Fu L, Jiang M, Bai G. Phillyrin and its metabolites treat pulmonary embolism by targeting PLCβ3 to inhibit platelet activation. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 333:118457. [PMID: 38866117 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.118457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2024] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Lian Qiao (LQ), the dried fruit of Forsythia suspensa (Thunb.) Vahl, is a well-documented traditional Chinese medicine known for its detoxifying and heat-clearing properties. Clinically, compounds containing LQ are widely used to treat thrombotic diseases, indicating that it may have antithrombotic effects. However, its exact mechanism of action remains unknown. AIM OF THE STUDY This study aimed to verify the antithrombotic effect of LQ and further explore the material basis and target mechanism of its antithrombotic effect using various biological methods. MATERIALS AND METHODS An epinephrine-collagen-thrombin-induced mouse model of acute pulmonary embolism (APE) was established to study the effects of LQ on thrombus development. A UPLC/Q/TOF-MS screening and identification system based on the inhibition of platelet aggregation and Ca2+ antagonism was established to determine the pharmacodynamic components of LQ that inhibit platelet activation. The inhibitory effect of active ingredients on platelet activation, and the determination of the target of their inhibitory effect on platelet activation have been studied using chemical proteomics. Furthermore, based on the structure and function of the target protein, a multidisciplinary approach was adopted to analyze the molecular mechanism of active ingredient binding to target proteins and to evaluate the effects of active ingredients on the downstream signaling pathways of target proteins. RESULTS LQ showed significant anticoagulant effects in APE model mice. Phillyrin and phillygenin were the antiplatelet-activating components of LQ. PLCβ3 was identified as a target for inhibiting platelet activation by phillyrin and its metabolites. The mechanism underlying the effect involves phillyrin and its metabolites inhibiting PLCβ3 activity by blocking the binding of PLCβ3 to Gαq through non-covalently targeting the ASN260 of PLCβ3, thus inhibiting the downstream Gαq-PLCβ3-Ca2+ signaling pathway, effectively hindering platelet activation and therefore playing an anticoagulant role. CONCLUSION This study not only proposes and validates the antithrombotic effect of LQ for the first time but also finds that phillyrin and phillygenin are the main pharmacological substances through which LQ exerts antithrombotic activity and reveals a novel mechanism by which they exert antiplatelet activity by directly targeting and inhibiting PLCβ3 activity. These findings significantly contribute to our understanding of the therapeutic potential of phillyrin and provide important clues for the discovery and development of new antiplatelet drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junjie Li
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yixu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Jiawei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Sihan Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Shou Wang
- Dalian Fusheng Natural Medicine Development Co. Ltd, Dalian, China
| | - Wenjuan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Tianjin, China.
| | - Li Fu
- Dalian Fusheng Natural Medicine Development Co. Ltd, Dalian, China.
| | - Min Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Tianjin, China.
| | - Gang Bai
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
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Lu Z, Yuan Y, Han Q, Wang Y, Liang Q. Lab-on-a-chip: an advanced technology for the modernization of traditional Chinese medicine. Chin Med 2024; 19:80. [PMID: 38853247 PMCID: PMC11163804 DOI: 10.1186/s13020-024-00956-4] [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: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Benefiting from the complex system composed of various constituents, medicament portions, species, and places of origin, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) possesses numerous customizable and adaptable efficacies in clinical practice guided by its theories. However, these unique features are also present challenges in areas such as quality control, screening active ingredients, studying cell and organ pharmacology, and characterizing the compatibility between different Chinese medicines. Drawing inspiration from the holistic concept, an integrated strategy and pattern more aligned with TCM research emerges, necessitating the integration of novel technology into TCM modernization. The microfluidic chip serves as a powerful platform for integrating technologies in chemistry, biology, and biophysics. Microfluidics has given rise to innovative patterns like lab-on-a-chip and organoids-on-a-chip, effectively challenging the conventional research paradigms of TCM. This review provides a systematic summary of the nature and advanced utilization of microfluidic chips in TCM, focusing on quality control, active ingredient screening/separation, pharmaceutical analysis, and pharmacological/toxicological assays. Drawing on these remarkable references, the challenges, opportunities, and future trends of microfluidic chips in TCM are also comprehensively discussed, providing valuable insights into the development of TCM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zenghui Lu
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine-X, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine Third-Level Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Chemistry, Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Yue Yuan
- Beijing Key Laboratory of TCM Pharmacology, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Qiang Han
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine-X, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine Third-Level Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Chemistry, Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Yu Wang
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine-X, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine Third-Level Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Chemistry, Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Qionglin Liang
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine-X, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine Third-Level Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Chemistry, Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China.
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Chu S, Shen F, Liu W, Zhang J, Wang X, Jiang M, Bai G. Sinapine targeting PLCβ3 EF hands disrupts Gαq-PLCβ3 interaction and ameliorates cardiovascular diseases. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 126:155200. [PMID: 38387273 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2023.155200] [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: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) over-activation is highly involved in cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), with the Gαq-PLCβ3 axis acting as a core node of RAAS. PLCβ3 is a potential target of CVDs, and the lack of inhibitors has limited its drug development. PURPOSE Sinapine (SP) is a potential leading compound for treating CVDs. Thus, we aimed to elucidate the regulation of SP towards the Gαq-PLCβ3 axis and its molecular mechanism. STUDY DESIGN Aldosteronism and hypertension animal models were employed to investigate SP's inhibitory effect on the abnormal activation of the RAAS through the Gαq-PLCβ3 axis. We used chemical biology methods to identify potential targets and elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms. METHODS The effects of SP on aldosteronism and hypertension were evaluated using an established animal model in our laboratory. Target identification and underlying molecular mechanism research were performed using activity-based protein profiling with a bio-orthogonal click chemistry reaction and other biochemical methods. RESULTS SP alleviated aldosteronism and hypertension in animal models by targeting PLCβ3. The underlying mechanism for blocking the Gαq-PLCβ3 interaction involves targeting the EF hands through the Asn-260 amino acid residue. SP regulated the Gαq-PLCβ3 axis more precisely than the Gαq-GEFT or Gαq-PKCζ axis in the cardiovascular system. CONCLUSION SP alleviated RAAS over-activation via Gαq-PLCβ3 interaction blockade by targeting the PLCβ3 EF hands domain, which provided a novel PLC inhibitor for treating CVDs. Unlike selective Gαq inhibitors, SP reduced the risk of side effects compared to Gαq inhibitors in treating CVDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simeng Chu
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Haihe Education Park, 38 Tongyan Road, Tianjin, 300353, China
| | - Fukui Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Haihe Education Park, 38 Tongyan Road, Tianjin, 300353, China
| | - Wenjuan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Haihe Education Park, 38 Tongyan Road, Tianjin, 300353, China
| | - Jin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Haihe Education Park, 38 Tongyan Road, Tianjin, 300353, China
| | - Xiaoying Wang
- Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 10 Poyanghu Road, Tianjin, 301617, China.
| | - Min Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Haihe Education Park, 38 Tongyan Road, Tianjin, 300353, China.
| | - Gang Bai
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Haihe Education Park, 38 Tongyan Road, Tianjin, 300353, China.
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Lei W, Chen CY, Zhou FJ, Ma YL, Li YH, Zhang H. Tanshinol alleviates ischemia-induced myocardial fibrosis via targeting ERK2 and disturbing the intermolecular autophosphorylation of ERK2 Thr188. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 168:115729. [PMID: 37862964 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115729] [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: 08/27/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Myocardial fibrosis is the fundamental remodeling process in myocardial ischemia (MI) and also the major contributor of heart failure and death. Tanshinol (Danshensu in Chinese, DSS), a major ingredient of salvia mitiorrhiza Bunge (Lamiaceae) root, exerted significant cardio protection effects. In this study, we aimed to identify the action target and then uncover the mechanism of DSS alleviating myocardial fibrosis. The pharmacological activities of DSS protecting ischemic cardiac was assessed and the myocardial proteomics was carried out. To identify the target of DSS, a cellular thermal shift assay combined with LC-MS identification was conducted. Surface plasmon resonance assay, molecular dynamics simulation and pharmacological and molecular biology approaches were adopted to explore the action mechanisms of DSS. Our results revealed that DSS effectively alleviated MI-induced left ventricle dysfunctions and the increasements of circulating myocardial markers. Besides, DSS significantly reversed the proteomic profile related to myocardial fibrotic processes and the ERK2 was identified as a crucial cellular target of DSS. DSS abated the temperature-dependent denaturation of ERK2 in a dose-dependent manner and the KD value of DSS and ERK2 was 60.19 μM. After Ang II stimulation, DSS suppressed the phosphorylation of Thr188 rather than the classic residues in TEY motif. DSS interfered the ERK2 homo-dimerization and then blocked the intermolecular autophosphorylation at Thr188 site. Thereout, DSS inhibited the nuclear translocation of ERK2 and the expression of downstream fibrotic biomolecules. Collectively, our results demonstrated that DSS targeted ERK2 and suppressed the intermolecular autophosphorylation at Thr188 residue, thus protecting ischemic myocardia from fibrosis remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Lei
- State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China; Key Laboratory of Pharmacology of Traditional Chinese Medical Formulae, Ministry of Education, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 10 Poyanghu Road, Jinghai District,Tianjin 301617, China; Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
| | - Chun-Yan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China; Key Laboratory of Pharmacology of Traditional Chinese Medical Formulae, Ministry of Education, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 10 Poyanghu Road, Jinghai District,Tianjin 301617, China; Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
| | - Feng-Jie Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China; Key Laboratory of Pharmacology of Traditional Chinese Medical Formulae, Ministry of Education, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 10 Poyanghu Road, Jinghai District,Tianjin 301617, China; Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
| | - Yao-Lei Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China; Key Laboratory of Pharmacology of Traditional Chinese Medical Formulae, Ministry of Education, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 10 Poyanghu Road, Jinghai District,Tianjin 301617, China; Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
| | - Yu-Hong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China; Key Laboratory of Pharmacology of Traditional Chinese Medical Formulae, Ministry of Education, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 10 Poyanghu Road, Jinghai District,Tianjin 301617, China; Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China.
| | - Han Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China; Key Laboratory of Pharmacology of Traditional Chinese Medical Formulae, Ministry of Education, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 10 Poyanghu Road, Jinghai District,Tianjin 301617, China; Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China.
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Zhang K, Shen F, Lei W, Han Y, Ma X, Lu Y, Hou Y, Liu W, Jiang M, Zhang T, Bai G. Ligustilide covalently binds to Cys129 of HMGCS1 to ameliorate dyslipidemia. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 166:115323. [PMID: 37579692 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Dyslipidemia is characterized by elevated levels of total cholesterol and triglycerides in serum, and has become the primary human health killer because of the major risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. Although there exist plenty of drugs for dyslipidemia, the number of patients who could benefit from lipid-lowering drugs still remains a concern. Ligustilide (Lig), a natural phthalide derivative, was reported to regulate lipid metabolic disorders. However, its specific targets and underlying molecular mechanism are still unclear. In this study, we found that Lig alleviated high fat diet-induced dyslipidemia by inhibiting cholesterol biosynthesis. Furthermore, a series of chemical biological analysis methods were used to identify its target protein for regulating lipid metabolism. Collectively, 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A synthetase 1 (HMGCS1) of hepatic cells was identified as a target for Lig to regulate lipid metabolism. The mechanistic study confirmed that Lig irreversibly binds to Cys129 of HMGCS1 via its metabolic intermediate 6,7-epoxyligustilide, thereby reducing cholesterol synthesis and improving lipid metabolism disorders. These findings not only systematically elucidated the lipid-lowering mechanism of Lig, but also provided a new structural compound for the treatment of dyslipidemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaixue Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Tianjin 300353, PR China
| | - Fukui Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Tianjin 300353, PR China
| | - Wei Lei
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, PR China
| | - Yanqi Han
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Delivery Technology and Pharmacokinetics, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Quality markers of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, Tianjin 300462, PR China
| | - Xiaoyao Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Tianjin 300353, PR China
| | - Yujie Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Tianjin 300353, PR China
| | - Yuanyuan Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Tianjin 300353, PR China
| | - Wenjuan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Tianjin 300353, PR China.
| | - Min Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Tianjin 300353, PR China.
| | - Tiejun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Delivery Technology and Pharmacokinetics, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Quality markers of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, Tianjin 300462, PR China
| | - Gang Bai
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Tianjin 300353, PR China
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Xie Z, Lin M, He X, Dong Y, Chen Y, Li B, Chen S, Lv G. Chemical Constitution, Pharmacological Effects and the Underlying Mechanism of Atractylenolides: A Review. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28103987. [PMID: 37241729 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28103987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Atractylenolides, comprising atractylenolide I, II, and III, represent the principal bioactive constituents of Atractylodes macrocephala, a traditional Chinese medicine. These compounds exhibit a diverse array of pharmacological properties, including anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and organ-protective effects, underscoring their potential for future research and development. Recent investigations have demonstrated that the anti-cancer activity of the three atractylenolides can be attributed to their influence on the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway. Additionally, the TLR4/NF-κB, PI3K/Akt, and MAPK signaling pathways primarily mediate the anti-inflammatory effects of these compounds. Atractylenolides can protect multiple organs by modulating oxidative stress, attenuating the inflammatory response, activating anti-apoptotic signaling pathways, and inhibiting cell apoptosis. These protective effects extend to the heart, liver, lung, kidney, stomach, intestine, and nervous system. Consequently, atractylenolides may emerge as clinically relevant multi-organ protective agents in the future. Notably, the pharmacological activities of the three atractylenolides differ. Atractylenolide I and III demonstrate potent anti-inflammatory and organ-protective properties, whereas the effects of atractylenolide II are infrequently reported. This review systematically examines the literature on atractylenolides published in recent years, with a primary emphasis on their pharmacological properties, in order to inform future development and application efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyi Xie
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, Zhejiang University of Technology, Huzhou 313200, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of TCM for Innovative R & D and Digital Intelligent Manufacturing of TCM Great Health Products, Huzhou 313200, China
| | - Minqiu Lin
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, Zhejiang University of Technology, Huzhou 313200, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of TCM for Innovative R & D and Digital Intelligent Manufacturing of TCM Great Health Products, Huzhou 313200, China
| | - Xinglishang He
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, Zhejiang University of Technology, Huzhou 313200, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of TCM for Innovative R & D and Digital Intelligent Manufacturing of TCM Great Health Products, Huzhou 313200, China
| | - Yingjie Dong
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, Zhejiang University of Technology, Huzhou 313200, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of TCM for Innovative R & D and Digital Intelligent Manufacturing of TCM Great Health Products, Huzhou 313200, China
| | - Yigong Chen
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Bo Li
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, Zhejiang University of Technology, Huzhou 313200, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of TCM for Innovative R & D and Digital Intelligent Manufacturing of TCM Great Health Products, Huzhou 313200, China
| | - Suhong Chen
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, Zhejiang University of Technology, Huzhou 313200, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of TCM for Innovative R & D and Digital Intelligent Manufacturing of TCM Great Health Products, Huzhou 313200, China
| | - Guiyuan Lv
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
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9
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Kong D, Mai Z, Chen Y, Luo L, Liu H, Zhao L, Huang R, Wang S, Chen R, Zhou H, Chen H, Zhang J, Yu H, Ding Y. ATL I, Acts as a SIRT6 Activator to Alleviate Hepatic Steatosis in Mice via Suppression of NLRP3 Inflammasome Formation. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15121526. [PMID: 36558977 PMCID: PMC9781479 DOI: 10.3390/ph15121526] [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: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Accumulating evidence has highlighted that sirtuin-6 (SIRT6) plays an important role in hepatic gluconeogenesis and lipogenesis. We aim to investigate the underlying mechanisms and pharmacological interventions of SIRT6 on hepatic steatosis treatment. Herein, our results showed that atractylenolide I (ATL I) activated the deacetylase activity of SIRT6 to promote peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα) transcription and translation, while suppressing nuclear factor NF-kappa-B (NFκB)-induced NACHT, LRR, and PYD domains containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome formation. Together, these decreased the infiltration of F4/80 and CD11B positive macrophages, accompanied by decreased mRNA expression and serum levels of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL6), and interleukin-1 beta (IL1β). Additionally, these changes decreased sterol regulatory element-binding protein-1c (SREBP-1c) expression, while restoring carnitine O-palmitoyltransferase 1a (Cpt1a) expression, to decrease the size of adipocytes and adipose deposition, which, in turn, reversed high-fat diet (HFD)-induced liver weight and body weight accumulation in C57 mice. SIRT6 knockout or hepatic SIRT6 knockout in C57 mice largely abolished the effect of ATL I on ameliorating hepatic steatosis. Taken together, our results suggest that ATL I acts as a promising compound that activates SIRT6/PPARα signaling and attenuates the NLRP3 inflammasome to ameliorate hepatic inflammation and steatosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danli Kong
- Department of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - Zhenhua Mai
- Department of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang 524002, China
| | - Yongze Chen
- Department of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang 524002, China
| | - Ling Luo
- Department of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - Hao Liu
- Department of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - Le Zhao
- Department of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - Ruixian Huang
- Department of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - Shuang Wang
- Department of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - Rong Chen
- Department of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - Hao Zhou
- Department of Hospital Infection Management of Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Hao Chen
- Department of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - Jingjing Zhang
- Department of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - Haibing Yu
- Department of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - Yuanlin Ding
- Department of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-0769-22896575
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10
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Chu S, Lu Y, Liu W, Ma X, Peng J, Wang X, Jiang M, Bai G. Ursolic acid alleviates tetrandrine-induced hepatotoxicity by competitively binding to the substrate-binding site of glutathione S-transferases. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 104:154325. [PMID: 35820303 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2022.154325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tetrandrine (TET), a bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloid isolated from Stephania tetrandra S. Moore, is the only approved medicine in China for silicosis. However, TET-induced hepatotoxicity has raised safety concerns. The underlying toxic targets and mechanism induced by TET remain unclear; there are no targeted detoxification strategies developed for TET-induced hepatotoxicity. Ursolic acid (UA), a pentacyclic triterpene with liver protective effects, may have detoxification effects on TET-induced hepatotoxicity. PURPOSE This study aims to explore toxic targets and mechanism of TET and present UA as a potential targeted therapy for alleviating TET-induced hepatotoxicity. METHODS A TET-induced liver-injury model was established to evaluate TET toxicity and the potential UA detoxification effect. Alkenyl-modified TET and UA probes were designed to identify potential liver targets. Pharmacological and molecular biology methods were used to explore the underlying toxicity/detoxification mechanism. RESULTS TET induced liver injury by covalently binding to the substrate-binding pocket (H-site) of glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) and inhibiting GST activity. The covalent binding led to toxic metabolite accumulation and caused redox imbalance and liver injury. UA protected the liver from TET-induced damage by competitively binding to the GST H-site. CONCLUSION The mechanism of TET-induced hepatotoxicity is related to irreversible binding with the GST H-site and GST-activity inhibition. UA, a natural antidote, competed with TET on H-site binding and reversed the redox imbalance. This study revealed the hepatotoxic mechanism of TET and provided a targeted detoxifying agent, UA, to alleviate hepatotoxicity caused by GST inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simeng Chu
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Haihe Education Park, 38 Tongyan Road, Tianjin, 300353, PR China
| | - Yujie Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Haihe Education Park, 38 Tongyan Road, Tianjin, 300353, PR China
| | - Wenjuan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Haihe Education Park, 38 Tongyan Road, Tianjin, 300353, PR China
| | - Xiaoyao Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Haihe Education Park, 38 Tongyan Road, Tianjin, 300353, PR China
| | - Jiamin Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Haihe Education Park, 38 Tongyan Road, Tianjin, 300353, PR China
| | - Xiaoying Wang
- Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 10 Poyanghu Road, Tianjin, 301617, PR China.
| | - Min Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Haihe Education Park, 38 Tongyan Road, Tianjin, 300353, PR China.
| | - Gang Bai
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Pharmacy and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Haihe Education Park, 38 Tongyan Road, Tianjin, 300353, PR China.
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