Effect of Zuoguiwan on osteoporosis in ovariectomized rats through RANKL/OPG pathway mediated by β2AR

Extracts of Drynariae Rhizoma Promote Bone Formation in OVX Rats through Modulating the Gut Microbiota

Drynariae Rhizoma has been commonly used as a preventive and therapeutic agent for bone diseases. However, its pharmacological mechanisms have not been fully elucidated. Here, we aimed to investigate the effects of Drynariae Rhizoma in a bilateral ovariectomized rat model and explore the correlation with gut microbiome. We established an ovariectomized rat model, which we treated with different doses of Drynariae Rhizoma (Drynariae Rhizoma-Low, 0.27 g/kg/day; Drynariae Rhizoma-Middle, 0.81 g/kg/day; Drynariae Rhizoma-High, 2.43 g/kg/day) through intragastric administration for 12 weeks. Results showed that Drynariae Rhizoma alleviated body weight, moderated bone microstructure, and promoted the expression of bone formation-related factors in ovariectomized rats, in which Drynariae Rhizoma-High showed the most significant effects among the three doses. Furthermore, the effects of Drynariae Rhizoma on promoting bone formation were correlated to the changes in microbial richness and the restorations of several genera, among which Ruminiclostridium and Ruminococcaceae_UCG_007 were positively correlated with the bone formation-related factors, and both were enriched in the Drynariae Rhizoma-High group as biomarkers. Moreover, CMP-legionaminate biosynthesis I might be a crucial pathway of Drynariae Rhizoma to regulate gut microbiota. The content of serum short-chain fatty acids in the ovariectomized rats were regulated by Drynariae Rhizoma. Our results demonstrate that Drynariae Rhizoma promotes bone formation in ovariectomized rats, and is related to the regulation of the gut microbiota structure.

Beneficial effects of the herbal medicine zuo gui wan in a mice model of Alzheimer's disease via Drp1-Mediated inhibition of mitochondrial fission and activation of AMPK/PGC-1α-regulated mitochondrial bioenergetics

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Zuo Gui Wan (ZGW) is a well-known traditional Chinese medicine decoction used for approximately 400 years to treat age-related degenerative conditions, including cognitive impairment in older adults, osteoporosis, and general aging. However, the mechanism of action for ZGW remains unclear.

AIMS OF THE STUDY

This study aims to investigate the efficacy of ZGW in improving cognitive function in Alzheimer's disease (AD) animal models and to explore the underlying mechanisms, presenting a novel perspective in the field.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Six-month-old male APP/PS1 mice were divided into three groups that received either metformin (200 mg/kg daily) or ZGW (6 and 12 g/kg daily). High-performance liquid chromatography was conducted for ZGW's quality control. Cognitive function was assessed using the Morris water maze test. Neuronal loss, synaptic plasticity, and β-amyloid (Aβ) deposition were evaluated through Western blot or immunofluorescence staining. The underlying molecular mechanisms were investigated using ELISA, Western blot, qRT-PCR, co-immunoprecipitation assay, ATP assay, and cytochrome c oxidase assay.

RESULTS

ZGW, administered in both low and high doses, significantly enhanced cognitive performance, notably decreased neuronal loss and Aβ deposition, and reduced levels of Aβ1-40/42. It also inhibited excessive mitochondrial division primarily by suppressing phosphorylated dynamin-related protein 1 (Drp1), especially at high doses of ZGW. Co-immunoprecipitation experiments further confirmed that ZGW inhibited the interaction between Aβ and p-Drp1. Furthermore, similar to the effects of the AMP-activated Protein Kinase (AMPK) activator metformin, ZGW led to a marked increase in the mitochondrial DNA copy number and upregulated the AMPK/PGC-1α/NRF1/TFAM pathway. Improvements in mitochondrial function were evident from the increased ATP production, elevated expression of superoxide dismutase 2, and upregulated cytochrome c oxidase activity. Additionally, the excess byproduct of reactive oxygen species, 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal, decreased in the group treated with ZGW.

CONCLUSION

This study provides compelling evidence that ZGW improves cognitive impairment in APP/PS1 mice by activating AMPK/PGC-1α-regulated mitochondrial bioenergetics and inhibiting Aβ-induced mitochondrial fragmentation, highlighting its potential as an effective therapeutic strategy for AD.

Effects of traditional Chinese medicine Zuo-Gui-Wan on gut microbiota in an osteoporotic mouse model

BACKGROUND

The target and mechanism of oral traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) have been important research directions for a long time. The close relationship between osteoporosis and gut microbiota (GM) has been confirmed. However, the relevance of oral TCM and the "Gut-Bone Axis" is still poorly understood.

METHODS

Twenty-one SPF C57BL/6J female mice were divided into sham (Sham), ovariectomized (OVX), and Zuo-Gui-Wan-treated (ZGW, 1.4 g/kg) groups. The osteoporosis mouse model was established through ovariectomy. After eight weeks of Zuo-Gui-Wan treatment via gavage, serum calcium, phosphorus, ALT, AST, CREA, and other biochemical indicators were measured. Subsequently, Micro-CT, HE staining, and analysis of gut microbiota were conducted to further explore the potential mechanism.

RESULTS

The anti-osteoporotic effects of ZGW were confirmed through micro-CT, histological, and biochemical tests in an OVX-induced osteoporosis mouse model. ZGW treatment also alters the diversity and composition of the gut microbiota and altered the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio. Further analysis reveals a correlation between specific bacterial groups and serum indicators. Mfuzz clustering analysis and metagenomeSeq analysis identified important microbiota species that were rescued or modulated by ZGW treatment.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that changes in gut microbiota abundance may be linked to ZGW's ability to improve osteoporosis. This study provides new insights into how ZGW treats osteoporosis, though further research is needed to clarify the mechanisms by which specific gut microbiota influence bone health.

Modified Zuo Gui Wan Ameliorates Ovariectomy-Induced Osteoporosis in Rats by Regulating the SCFA-GPR41-p38MAPK Signaling Pathway

Objective

Modified Zuo Gui Wan (MZGW) was a combination of Zuo Gui Wan and red yeast rice used for treating osteoporosis (OP), but its mechanism remains unclear. We aimed to validate the anti-OP effect of MZGW and explore its underlying mechanism.

Methods

An ovariectomy (OVX) rat model in vivo and a RANKL-induced osteoclasts (OCs) model in vitro were established. Key active ingredients in MZGW high dose (MZGW-H) group were detected by UPLC-MS/MS. Micro-CT scans and histomorphology analysis were performed in OVX rats. 16S rRNA gene sequencing was performed to investigate the relationship between the anti-OP effect of MZGW-H and intestinal flora. CCK-8 assay was applied to examine the optimal concentration of Modified Zuo Gui Wan drug serum (MZGW-DS) on osteoclasts. The qRT-PCR and Western blotting were utilized to explore the potential anti-OP pathway of MZGW, namely the SCFA-GPR41-p38MAPK signaling pathway. GPR41 was knocked down to further reverse to verify whether the pathway was the key pathway for MZGW-DS to exert its inhibitory effect on osteoclasts.

Results

The three main blood components, Ferulic acid, L-Ascorbic acid and Riboflavin, were examined mainly by UPLC-MS/MS. 16S rRNA gene sequencing showed that MZGW-H changed the metabolism of SCFAs. In vivo studies verified that MZGW-H ameliorated microstructure damage, improved histological changes and reduced TRAP, BALP, and BGP in OVX rats by regulating the SCFA-GPR41-p38MAPK signaling pathway. CCK-8 revealed that 5% MZGW-DS group was the most optimal concentration of MZGW-DS to inhibit osteoclast differentiation. In vitro, MZGW-DS was better than peripheral blood concentration of SCFAs in inhibiting osteoclasts. After the knockout of GPR41, MZGW-DS could not inhibit the expression of osteoclast-related protein (CTSK and NFATc1) via SCFA-GPR41-p38MAPK signaling pathway.

Conclusion

MZGW-H effectively ameliorates OVX-induced osteoporosis partially achieved by increasing SCFAs metabolism and modulating the SCFA-GPR41-p38MAPK signaling pathway.

The Nexus Between Traditional Chinese Medicine and Immunoporosis: Implications in the Treatment and Management of Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis (OP) is a globally prevalent bone disease characterized by reduced bone mass and heightened fracture risk, posing a significant health and economic challenge to aging societies worldwide. Osteoimmunology—an emerging field of study—investigates the intricate relationship between the skeletal and the immune systems, providing insights into the immune system's impact on bone health and disease progression. Recent research has demonstrated the essential roles played by various immune cells (T cells, B cells, macrophages, dendritic cells, mast cells, granulocytes, and innate lymphoid cells) in regulating bone metabolism, homeostasis, formation, and remodeling through interactions with osteoclasts (OC) and osteoblasts (OB). These findings underscore that osteoimmunology provides an essential theoretical framework for understanding the pathogenesis of various skeletal disorders, including OP. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and its active ingredients have significant clinical value in OP treatment. Unfortunately, despite their striking multieffect pathways in the pharmacological field, current research has not yet summarized them in a comprehensive and detailed manner with respect to their interventional roles in immune bone diseases, especially OP. Consequently, this review addresses recent studies on the mechanisms by which immune cells and their communication molecules contribute to OP development. Additionally, it explores the potential therapeutic benefits of TCM and its active components in treating OP from the perspective of osteoimmunology. The objective is to provide a comprehensive framework that enhances the understanding of the therapeutic mechanisms of TCM in treating immune‐related bone diseases and to facilitate the development of novel therapeutic strategies.

Zuogui Pills alleviate cyclophosphamide-induced ovarian aging by reducing oxidative stress and restoring the stemness of oogonial stem cells through the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Zuogui Pill (ZGP) is a traditional herbal formula of Chinese Medicine with a long history of use in alleviating ovarian aging.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To examine the impact of ZGP on oxidative stress and the stemness of oogonial stem cells (OSCs) in cyclophosphamide (CTX)-induced ovarian aging, as well as its molecular mechanisms involving the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2, NFE2L2)/heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1, Hmox1) pathway.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Female Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into seven groups: control, model (CTX), estradiol valerate (EV, 0.103 mg/kg), ZGP-L (low dose Zuogui Pill, 1.851 g/kg), ZGP-H (high dose Zuogui Pill, 3.702 g/kg), ML385 (30 mg/kg), and ML385+ZGP-L. After CTX modeling, the EV, ZGP-L, ZGP-H, and ML385+ZGP-L groups were treated by gavage for 8 weeks, while the ML385 and ML385+ZGP-L groups were administered the Nrf2 antagonist ML385 twice a week. OSCs were isolated after modeling and then treated with drug serum containing 10% ZGP or 10 μM ML385. The general conditions of the rats, including body weight, ovarian weight/body weight ratio, and estrous cycle, were observed. Ovarian ultrastructure, follicle and corpus luteum counts were assessed via hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining. Serum hormone levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Nrf2/HO-1 pathway, stem cell, germ cell, and cell cycle biomarkers were analyzed by qPCR and Western blot. Cell viability was assessed by cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. Oxidative stress biomarkers were evaluated using flow cytometry and assay kits. Immunofluorescence was employed to detect and locate OSCs in the ovary, quantify the average fluorescence intensity, and identify OSCs.

RESULTS

After ZGP treatment, rats with CTX-induced ovarian aging exhibited improved general condition, increased body weight, higher total ovarian weight to body weight ratio, and a restoration of the estrous cycle similar to the control group. Serum levels of estradiol (E2) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), two sex hormones, were also improved. Ovarian ultrastructure and follicle count at all stages showed improvement. Moreover, the viability and proliferation capacity of OSCs were enhanced following ZGP intervention. The Nrf2/HO-1 pathway was found to be down-regulated in CTX-induced aging ovarian OSCs. However, ZGP reversed this effect by activating the expression of Nrf2, HO-1, and NAD(P)H oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1), increasing the activity of antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX), and reducing the accumulation of malonaldehyde (MDA) and reactive oxygen species (ROS), thus restoring resistance to oxidative stress. Additionally, ZGP improved the cell cycle of OSCs, up-regulated the expression of Cyclin D1 and Cyclin E1, restored cell stemness, promoted proliferation, enhanced the expression of cell stemness markers octamer-binding transcription factor 4 (Oct4) and mouse VASA homolog (MVH), and down-regulated the expression of P21, thereby inhibiting apoptosis. The therapeutic effects of ZGP against oxidative stress and restoration of cell stemness were attenuated following inhibition of the Nrf2 signaling pathway using ML385.

CONCLUSIONS

ZGP protected against CTX-induced ovarian aging by restoring normal ovarian function, alleviating oxidative stress in aging OSCs, promoting OSCs proliferation, and restoring their stemness in rats, possibly through regulating the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway.

Insight of Chinese Herbal Medicine in Treating Osteoporosis: Achievements from 2013 to 2023

Osteoporosis is the most common bone metabolic disease, and it is becoming increasingly common as the global population ages. Osteoporosis and its complications, such as fractures and pain, negatively affect patient quality of life and easily lead to disability, placing enormous burdens on society. Although several anti-osteoporosis drugs are currently available, many adverse reactions have been observed during the long-term application of these drugs. Therefore, safer and more useful medications are urgently needed to replace those currently available. Chinese herbal medicine has been extensively used to treat osteoporosis, and the current literature confirms that such medicines have anti-osteoporosis effects, are safe, and have minimal side effects. Thus, Chinese herbal medicines are natural alternatives to pharmaceutical approaches to treating osteoporosis, and these medicines must be further developed and utilized. In this article, we review the mechanisms underlying the anti-osteoporosis effects of single herbal extracts and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formulas that have been elucidated since 2013, providing key evidence and support for future research on the anti-osteoporosis effects of Chinese herbal medicines. In addition, due to the complexity of the ingredients in Chinese herbal medicine, more thorough investigations are needed to determine the specific ingredients that are effective in osteoporosis treatment. Therefore, identifying the effective ingredients of Chinese herbal medicines will be a necessary focus in laboratory research and clinical application.

Chronic Excess Iodine Intake Inhibits Bone Reconstruction Leading to Osteoporosis in Rats

BACKGROUND

Although iodine modulates bone metabolism in the treatment of thyroid disease, the effect of iodine intake on bone metabolism remains less known.

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluated the effect of excess iodine intake in rats on bone reconstruction in the 6th and 12th month of intervention.

METHOD

Rats were treated with different doses of iodinated water: the normal group (NI, 6.15 μg/d), 5-fold high iodine group (5HI, 30.75 μg/d), 10-fold high iodine group (10HI, 61.5 μg/d), 50-fold high iodine group (50HI, 307.5 μg/d), and 100-fold high iodine group (100HI, 615 μg/d). Thyroid hormone concentrations were determined by a chemiluminescent immunoassay. Morphometry and microstructure of bone trabecula were observed by hematoxylin and eosin staining and microcomputed tomography, respectively. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining were performed to evaluate the activity of osteoblasts and osteoclasts, respectively.

RESULTS

The 24-h urine iodine concentration increased with iodine intake. The rats in the HI groups had higher serum thyroid-stimulating hormone and decreased serum free thyroxine concentrations in the 12th month than the NI group (all P < 0.05). The percentage of the trabecular bone area and osteoblast perimeter in the 100HI group were significantly lower than those in the NI group (P < 0.05). Increased structure model index was observed in the 50HI and 100HI groups compared with the NI group in the 6th month and increased trabecular separation in the 12th month (all P < 0.05). ALP and TRAP staining revealed osteoblastic bone formation was reduced, and the number of TRAP+ multinucleated cells decreased with increasing iodine intake.

CONCLUSIONS

Excess iodine intake may increase the risk of hypothyroidism in rats. Chronic excess iodine intake can lead to abnormal changes in skeletal structure, resulting in reduced activity of osteoblasts and osteoclasts, which inhibits the process of bone reconstruction and may lead to osteoporosis.

Cornus officinalis: a potential herb for treatment of osteoporosis

Osteoporosis (OP) is a systemic metabolic skeletal disorder characterized by a decline in bone mass, bone mineral density, and deterioration of bone microstructure. It is prevalent among the elderly, particularly postmenopausal women, and poses a substantial burden to patients and society due to the high incidence of fragility fractures. Kidney-tonifying Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has long been utilized for OP prevention and treatment. In contrast to conventional approaches such as hormone replacement therapy, TCM offers distinct advantages such as minimal side effects, low toxicity, excellent tolerability, and suitability for long-term administration. Extensive experimental evidence supports the efficacy of kidney-tonifying TCM, exemplified by formulations based on the renowned herb Cornus officinalis and its bioactive constituents, including morroniside, sweroside, flavonol kaempferol, Cornuside I, in OP treatment. In this review, we provide a comprehensive elucidation of the underlying pathological principles governing OP, with particular emphasis on bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells, the homeostasis of osteogenic and osteoclastic, and the regulation of vascular and immune systems, all of which critically influence bone homeostasis. Furthermore, the therapeutic mechanisms of Cornus officinalis-based TCM formulations and Cornus officinalis-derived active constituents are discussed. In conclusion, this review aims to enhance understanding of the pharmacological mechanisms responsible for the anti-OP effects of kidney-tonifying TCM, specifically focusing on Cornus officinalis, and seeks to explore more efficacious and safer treatment strategies for OP.

Differentially expressed transcripts study during pregnancy and postpartum anestrus of yak (Bos grunniens)

Background: Yak is the main livestock species in the plateau area, and its reproductive performance is low, usually two years or three years. A very few of yaks recover within a certain period of time after delivery and smoothly enter the next estrous cycle, while most of them enter the postpartum anestrus and show no estrus performance. However, the key biological factors and influencing mechanisms that cause postpartum anestrus in yaks are not clear. Objective: To study the expression of differential transcripts in ovaries of yak during pregnancy and postpartum anestrus. Methods: Each three yaks in pregnancy and anestrus under natural grazing conditions in Haiyan County, Qinghai Province were selected and slaughtered, and their ovaries were collected and sent to Biomarker Technologies. Oxford Nanopore Technologies single-molecule real-time electrical signal sequencing technology was used to perform full-length transcriptome sequencing. Astalavista software was used to identify the types of alternative splicing events in yak estrus and pregnancy, and TAPIS pipeline was used to identify alternative polyadenylation. Results: The results showed that there were 1751 differentially expressed transcripts (DETs) between pregnancy and anestrus in yak, of which 808 were upregulated and 943 were downregulated. GO analysis showed that the biological processes of DETs were mainly reproductive, reproductive and rhythmic processes. KEGG analysis showed that the DET cell junction-related adhesion junction protein (β-catenin) and amino terminal kinase (JNK) were involved in FAs (local adhesion). Phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K) is involved in the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. Circadian rhythm output cycle failure (Clock) and brain and muscle tissue aromatic hydrocarbon receptor nuclear transporter-like protein 1 (Bmal1) are involved in circadian rhythm signaling pathway. Conclusion: This study found that β-catenin, JNK, PI3K, Clock and Bmal1 were closely related to postpartum anestrus in yak.

Circ_0114581 promotes osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs via the MiR-155-5p/HNRNPA3 axis

Osteoporosis (OP) is a common metabolic bone disease characterized by deterioration of bone tissue structure, reduction of bone mass, and susceptibility to fracture. More and new suitable therapeutic targets need to be discovered. The purpose of this study was to explore the ceRNA mechanisms of circRNAs involved in osteoporosis. In this study, a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) regulatory network was obtained through the application of OP-related high throughput data sets. Our results provided evidence that HNRNPA3 was involved in the regulation of osteogenic differentiation in BMSCs. Testing of human bone tissues and ovariectomized mice bones proved that its expression level was negatively correlated with OP. The utilization of miRNA mimic or inhibitor proved that miR-155-5p could negatively regulate the expression of HNRNPA3, while overexpression of hsa_circ_0114581 with a circRNA overexpression vector proved that hsa_circ_0114581 could indirectly promoted HNRNPA3 expression and osteogenic differentiation by sponging hsa-miR-155-5p. A serious of luciferase reporter assay experiments further verified the binding site between miR-155-5p and HNRNPA3 and the binding site between miR-155-5p and hsa_circ_0114581. This study proved that the hsa_circ_0114581/hsa-miR-155-5p/HNRNPA3 axis was related with OP. The results reveal valuable insights into the pathogenesis of OP and noncoding RNA markers that may have a treatment role and will help to provide hypotheses for future studies.

Advances in the study of traditional Chinese medicine affecting bone metabolism through modulation of oxidative stress

Bone metabolic homeostasis is dependent on coupled bone formation dominated by osteoblasts and bone resorption dominated by osteoclasts, which is a process of dynamic balance between bone formation and bone resorption. Notably, the formation of bone relies on the development of bone vasculature. Previous studies have shown that oxidative stress caused by disturbances in the antioxidant system of the whole organism is an important factor affecting bone metabolism. The increase in intracellular reactive oxygen species can lead to disturbances in bone metabolism, which can initiate multiple bone diseases, such as osteoporosis and osteoarthritis. Traditional Chinese medicine is considered to be an effective antioxidant. Cumulative evidence shows that the traditional Chinese medicine can alleviate oxidative stress-mediated bone metabolic disorders by modulating multiple signaling pathways, such as Nrf2/HO-1 signaling, PI3K/Akt signaling, Wnt/β-catenin signaling, NF-κB signaling, and MAPK signaling. In this paper, the potential mechanisms of traditional Chinese medicine to regulate bone me-tabolism through oxidative stress is summarized to provide direction and theoretical basis for future research related to the treatment of bone diseases with traditional Chinese medicine.

Mechanisms by which kidney-tonifying Chinese herbs inhibit osteoclastogenesis: Emphasis on immune cells

The immune system plays a crucial role in regulating osteoclast formation and function and has significance for the occurrence and development of immune-mediated bone diseases. Kidney-tonifying Chinese herbs, based on the theory of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) to unify the kidney and strengthen the bone, have been widely used in the prevention and treatment of bone diseases. The common botanical drugs are tonifying kidney-yang and nourishing kidney-yin herbs, which are divided into two parts: one is the compound prescription of TCM, and the other is the single preparation of TCM and its active ingredients. These botanical drugs regulate osteoclastogenesis directly and indirectly by immune cells, however, we have limited information on the differences between the two botanical drugs in osteoimmunology. In this review, the mechanism by which kidney-tonifying Chinese herbs inhibiting osteoclastogenesis was investigated, emphasizing the immune response. The differences in the mechanism of action between tonifying kidney-yang herbs and nourishing kidney-yin herbs were analysed, and the therapeutic value for immune-mediated bone diseases was evaluated.

Zuogui Wan slowed senescence of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells by suppressing Wnt/β-catenin signaling

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Zuogui Wan (ZGW) is a classical prescription for senile disorders and delay aging. Modern studies show that ZGW promotes central nerve cell regeneration, prevents and cures osteoporosis, enhances the body's antioxidant capacity, regulates the body's immune function, and promotes mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) proliferation.

AIM OF THE STUDY

It has been shown that MSCs aging is closely associated with organism's aging and age-related disorders. The study aimed to define the effects of ZGW on the aging bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) and to identify the mechanisms of ZGW delaying BMSCs senescence.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Network pharmacology analysis combined with GEO data mining, molecular docking and experimental validation were used to evaluate the mechanisms by which ZGW delays MSCs senescence (MSCS). LC-MS was used for quality control analysis of ZGW.

RESULTS

PPI network analysis revealed that EGF, TNF, JUN, MMPs, IL-6, MAPK8, and MYC are components of the core PPI network. GO and KEGG analyses revealed that oxidative stress, regulation of response to DNA damage stimuli, and Wnt signaling were significantly enriched. GEO database validation also indicated that Wnt signaling closely correlated with MSCs aging. Molecular docking analysis of the top-13 active components in the "ZGW-Targets-MSCS" network indicated that most components have strong affinity for key proteins in Wnt signaling, suggesting that modulation of Wnt signaling is an important mechanism of ZGW activity against MSCS. Further experimental validation found that ZGW indeed regulates Wnt signaling and suppresses the expression of age-related factors to enhance cell proliferation, ameliorate DNA damage, and reduce senescence-related secretory phenotype (SASP) secretion, thereby maintaining multidirectional differentiation of rat BMSCs. Similar results were obtained using the Wnt inhibitor, XAV-939.

CONCLUSIONS

Together, our data show that ZGW slows BMSCs aging by suppressing Wnt signaling.

Zuogui Wan improves spermatogenesis of GC1-spg cells through modulating AR-related pathways

Zuogui Wan (ZGW) is a common prescription medication used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) to significantly improve the sperm quality and treat male infertility. This study evaluated the repair effect of ZGW and Levocarnitine (LEV) on GC1-spg cell injury induced by Glucosides of Tripterygium WilforDII Hook (GTW). The results showed that the ultrastructure and apoptosis rate of GC1- spg cells in LEV and ZGW group were considerably better than GTW. The transcriptional and translational level of CYP1A1, CYP17A1, androgen receptor (AR), SRD5A2 and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) in GC-1spg cells of the LEV group were considerably elevated than GTW group (p < 0.05 or 0.01). Furthermore, the transcriptional and translational levels of CYP19A1, CYP17A1, AR, SRD5A2 and PCNA in GC-1spg cells in ZGW group were found to be considerably elevated than the LEV group (p < 0.05 or 0.01). The findings indicate that ZGW and LEV could increase the expression of PCNA, CYP17A1, CYP19A1, SRD5A2 and AR at transcriptional and translational levels, inhibit GC-1spg cell apoptosis and promoting cell proliferation, and the effect of ZGW was found to be significantly better than that of LEV.

Zuo-Gui-Wan Aqueous Extract Ameliorates Glucocorticoid-Induced Spinal Osteoporosis of Rats by Regulating let-7f and Autophagy

OBJECTIVE

This study proposes to explore the protective effect of Zuo-Gui-Wan (ZGW) aqueous extract on spinal glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis (GIOP) in vivo and in vitro, and the underlying mechanisms of ZGW in GIOP and osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) were conducted.

METHODS

In vivo, SD rats were randomly divided into three groups: control group (CON), dexamethasone (DEXM) group, and ZGW group, which were given vehicle, DEXM injection, and ZGW intragastric administration at the same time. Vertebral bone microarchitecture, biomechanics, histomorphology, serum AKP activity, and the autophagosome of osteoblasts were examined. The mRNA expressions of let-7f, autophagy-associated genes (mTORC1, Beclin-1, ATG12, ATG5, and LC3), Runx2, and CTSK were examined. In vitro, the let-7f overexpression/silencing vector was constructed and transfected to evaluate the osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs. Western blot was employed to detect the expression of autophagy-associated proteins (ULK2, ATG5, ATG12, Beclin-1, LC3).

RESULTS

In vivo, ZGW promoted the bone quantity, quality, and strength; alleviated histological damage; increased the serum AKP activity; and reduced the autophagosome number in osteoblasts. Moreover, ZGW increased the let-7f, mTORC1, and Runx2 mRNA expressions and reduced the Beclin-1, ATG12, ATG5, LC3, and CTSK mRNA expressions. In vitro, bioinformatics prediction and dual luciferase reporter gene assay verified that let-7f targeted the binding to ULK2 and negatively regulated the ULK2 expression. Furthermore, by let-7f overexpression/silencing, ZGW may promote osteoblast differentiation of BMSCs by regulating let-7f and autophagy as evidenced by Western blot (ULK2, ATG5, ATG12, Beclin-1, LC3).

CONCLUSIONS

ZGW may ameliorate GC-induced spinal osteoporosis by promoting osteoblast differentiation of BMSCs by activation of let-7f and suppression of autophagy.

Efficacy of Chinese patent medicine for primary osteoporosis: A network meta-analysis

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Chinese patent medicines (CPMs) have gained increasing attention for the treatment of primary osteoporosis (POP), but there is a lack of high-quality evidence regarding their efficacy. We conducted a network meta-analysis that considered both direct and indirect comparisons to assess and rank the efficacy and safety of CPMs for POP.

METHODS

Seven electronic databases were searched from their inception to May 2020. A random effects model was applied within a frequentist framework.

RESULTS

Thirty-eight studies with 16 kinds of medicines (13 CPMs, 3 Western medicines) and 3,941 patients were included in this study. This study showed that Jintiange capsule was the most efficacious for increasing the L2-L4 average bone mineral density (BMD) and that Zuogui Wan was the most efficacious for increasing the femoral neck BMD. Compared with calcium, Gusongjiangu Wan (RR = 10.04, 95% CI 1.36-74.32, p = 0.008), Gushukang granules (RR = 12.63, 95% CI 2.02-78.99, p = 0.015) and Xianling Gubao capsule (RR = 6.06, 95% CI 1.38-26.65, p = 0.0003) had fewer adverse reactions.

CONCLUSION

In the treatment of POP, Jintiange capsule and Zuogui Wan are effective CPMs for improving the BMD of the lumbar spine and femoral neck, respectively.

Aqueous Extract of Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge-Radix Puerariae Herb Pair Attenuates Osteoporosis in Ovariectomized Rats Through Suppressing Osteoclast Differentiation

Traditional herb pair Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge-Radix Puerariae (DG) owns various biological activities including anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is one high-risk factor for osteoporosis, then effect of DG on osteoporosis and underlying mechanisms was explored both in vivo and in vitro. Firstly, the predication from network pharmacology hinted that DG has the potential for ameliorating osteoporosis. Consistent with predication, DG significantly restored bone loss and deficiency of type II collagen, decreased TRAP and Cathepsin K positive areas in femur. Meanwhile it improved important characteristics of microarchitectural deterioration of tissue, reduced the numbers of NFATc1-positive osteoclast in the vertebra as well as decreased the serum osteoclast-specific cytokine RANKL and OPG release in OVX rats exhibiting its protective effect against osteoporosis. In vitro, DG noticeably decreased osteoclastic-special marker protein expressions of RANK, c-Fos and NFATc1. Furthermore, autophagy pathway p62/LC3B, ROS production and NF-κB were all activated by RANKL stimulation and blocked by DG pretreatment. Moreover, autophagy inhibitors, ROS scavenger, Ca²⁺ chelator and NF-κB inhibitor remarkably suppressed c-Fos and NFATc1 expressions. Taken together, DG may ameliorate osteoporosis by regulating osteoclast differentiation mediated by autophagy and oxidative stress. This study provided a mechanistic basis for DG treating osteoporosis and offered a safe dose for DG in preventing and improving bone diseases.

Ginsenoside Rg3 attenuates ovariectomy-induced osteoporosis via AMPK/mTOR signaling pathway

Ginsenoside Rg3, a ginsenoside isolated from Panax ginseng, can regulate autophagy via AMP-activated protein kinase/mammalian target of rapamycin (AMPK/mTOR) signaling pathway. AMPK/mTOR signaling and autophagy have been reported to be involved in osteogenesis. Here, the effect of Rg3 on ovariectomy (OVX)-induced osteoporosis is explored. In vivo, rats were treated with 20 mg/kg Rg3 after OVX and the body weight (BW) was monitored. Bone mineral density (BMD), hematoxylin-eosin staining of femur tissues, osteogenesis, autophagy, and AMPK/mTOR signaling were analyzed. In vitro, MC3T3-E1 cells were treated with 0, 1, 5, 10, 20, and 100 μmol/L Rg3. 10 and 20 μmol/L Rg3, which had no significant effect on cell viability and significantly affected AMPK/mTOR signaling, were chosen for further analysis. Then osteogenic differentiation was induced with Rg3 or/and AMPK inhibitor (Compound C). AMPK/mTOR signaling, autophagy, osteogenic differentiation, and mineralization by Alizarin Red staining were analyzed. The expression or activity of AMPK/mTOR signaling-related proteins, autophagy markers, and osteogenesis markers was measured by western blotting or commercial kits, and cell viability by cell counting kit-8 assay kits. Rg3 significantly alleviated OVX-induced BW increases, BMD declines and histological changes of femur tissues, promoted osteogenesis, autophagy, and AMPK signaling, but inhibited mTOR signaling in vivo. Moreover, Rg3 significantly enhanced AMPK signaling, autophagy, osteogenic differentiation, and mineralization, but suppressed mTOR signaling in vitro. However, Compound C significantly reversed Rg3-induced alterations in vitro, indicating that Rg3 regulated autophagy, osteogenic differentiation, and mineralization via AMPK/mTOR signaling. Hence, it was speculated that Rg3 might attenuate OVX-induced osteoporosis via AMPK/mTOR signaling pathway.

Osthole-loaded N-octyl-O-sulfonyl chitosan micelles (NSC-OST) inhibits RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis and prevents ovariectomy-induced bone loss in rats

Osthole (OST), a derivative of Fructus Cnidii, has been proved to have potential anti‐osteoporosis effects in our recent studies. However, its pharmacological effects are limited in the human body because of poor solubility and bioavailability. Under the guidance of the classical theory of Chinese medicine, Osthole‐loaded N‐octyl‐O‐sulfonyl chitosan micelles (NSC‐OST), which has not previously been reported in the literature, was synthesized in order to overcome the defects and obtain better efficacy. In this study, we found that NSC‐OST inhibited on the formation and resorption activity of osteoclasts through using a bone marrow macrophage (BMM)‐derived osteoclast culture system in vitro, rather than affecting the viability of cells. We also found that NSC‐OST inhibited osteoclast formation, hydroxyapatite resorption and RANKL‐induced osteoclast marker protein expression. In terms of mechanism, NSC‐OST suppressed the NFATc1 transcriptional activity and the activation of NF‐κB signalling pathway. In vivo, ovariectomized (OVX) rat models were established for further research. We found that NSC‐OST can attenuate bone loss in OVX rats through inhibiting osteoclastogenesis. Consistent with our hypothesis, NSC‐OST is more effective than OST in parts of the results. Taken together, our findings suggest that NSC‐OST can suppress RANKL‐induced osteoclastogenesis and prevents ovariectomy‐induced bone loss in rats and could be considered a safe and more effective anti‐osteoporosis drug than OST.

Therapeutic Effects of Low-Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound on Osteoporosis in Ovariectomized Rats: Intensity-Dependent Study

This study investigated the effects of low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) of different spatial-average-temporal-average intensity (I_SATA) ranging from 15-150 mW/cm² on the treatment of osteoporosis in ovariectomized rats. Healthy 3-mo-old female Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into nine groups (n = 12 per group): sham-ovariectomy (OVX) control group, OVX control group and OVX groups treated with LIPUS at seven different intensities (I_SATA: 15, 30, 50, 75, 100, 125 and 150 mW/cm², respectively). LIPUS was applied to bilateral femurs 12 wk post-OVX for 20 min/d for 6 wk. Micro-computed tomography, biomechanical tests, serum biochemical analysis and grip strength tests were performed to evaluate the therapeutic effects of LIPUS at different intensities. Results revealed that LIPUS intensity yielded strong correlations with bone mineral density and bone microstructure (R² = 0.57-0.83) and bone mechanical strength (R² = 0.80-0.97), and that the intensity of 150 mW/cm², instead of the 30 mW/cm² widely used in bone fracture healing, was most effective in maintaining bone mass among all the LIPUS signals between 15 and 150 mW/cm². This suggests that higher ultrasound intensity (i.e., 150 mW/cm²) may be more effective than lower intensity in mitigation of osteopenia and osteoporosis.