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Wang S, Chen B, Du R, Zhong M, Zhang C, Jin X, Cui X, Zhou Y, Kang Q, Xu H, Li Y, Wu Q, Tong G, Luo L. An herbal formulation "Shugan Xiaozhi decoction" ameliorates methionine/choline deficiency-induced nonalcoholic steatohepatitis through regulating inflammation and apoptosis-related pathways. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 329:118127. [PMID: 38583728 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.118127] [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: 12/23/2023] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Shugan Xiaozhi (SGXZ) decoction is a traditional Chinese medicine used for treating nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). It has been used clinically for over 20 years and proved to be effective; however, the molecular mechanism underlying the effects of SGXZ decoction remains unclear. AIM OF THE STUDY We analyzed the chemical components, core targets, and molecular mechanisms of SGXZ decoction to improve NASH through network pharmacology and in vivo experiments. MATERIALS AND METHODS The chemical components, core targets, and related signaling pathways of SGXZ decoction intervention in NASH were predicted using network pharmacology. Molecular docking was performed to verify chemical components and their core targets. The results were validated in the NASH model treated with SGXZ decoction. Mouse liver function was assessed by measuring ALT and AST levels. TC and TG levels were determined to evaluate lipid metabolism, and lipid deposition was assessed via oil red O staining. Mouse liver damage was determined via microscopy following hematoxylin and eosin staining. Liver fibrosis was assessed via Masson staining. Western blot (WB) and immunohistochemical (IHC) analyses were performed to detect inflammation and the expression of apoptosis-related proteins, including IL-1β, IL-6, IL-18, TNF-α, MCP1, p53, FAS, Caspase-8, Caspase-3, Caspase-9, Bax, Bid, Cytochrome c, Bcl-2, and Bcl-XL. In addition, WB and IHC were used to assess protein expression associated with the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB pathway. RESULTS Quercetin, luteolin, kaempferol, naringenin, and nobiletin in SGXZ decoction were effective chemical components in improving NASH, and TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β were the major core targets. Molecular docking indicated that these chemical components and major core targets might interact. KEGG pathway analysis showed that the pathways affected by SGXZ decoction, primarily including apoptosis and TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathways, interfere with NASH. In vivo experiments indicated that SGXZ decoction considerably ameliorated liver damage, fibrosis, and lipid metabolism disorder in MCD-induced NASH mouse models. In addition, WB and IHC verified the underlying molecular mechanisms of SGXZ decoction as predicted via network pharmacology. SGXZ decoction inhibited the activation of apoptosis-related pathways in MCD-induced NASH mice. Moreover, SGXZ decoction suppressed the activation of TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB pathway in MCD-induced NASH mice. CONCLUSION SGXZ decoction can treat NASH through multiple targets and pathways. These findings provide new insights into the effective treatment of NASH using SGXZ decoction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Wang
- Department of Hepatology, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China; Faculty of Chinese Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Avenida Wai Long, Taipa, Macau, 999078, China; Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Liver Diseases of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China
| | - Bohao Chen
- Department of Hepatology, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China; Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Liver Diseases of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China; Department of Hepatology, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China
| | - Ruili Du
- Department of Hepatology, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China; Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Liver Diseases of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China; Department of Hepatology, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China
| | - Mei Zhong
- Department of Hepatology, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China; Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Liver Diseases of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China; Department of Hepatology, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China
| | - Chunmei Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Science of Luoyang Polytechnic, No. 6 Keji Avenue, Yibin District, Henan, 471099, China
| | - Xiaoming Jin
- Department of Nephrology, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China
| | - Xiang Cui
- Ankang Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Ankang, 725000, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yuhang Zhou
- Department of Hepatology, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China; Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Liver Diseases of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China; Department of Hepatology, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China
| | - Qinyang Kang
- Department of Hepatology, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China; Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Liver Diseases of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China
| | - Hang Xu
- Department of Hepatology, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China; Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Liver Diseases of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China
| | - Yuting Li
- Department of Hepatology, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China; Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Liver Diseases of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China
| | - Qibiao Wu
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Avenida Wai Long, Taipa, Macau, 999078, China.
| | - Guangdong Tong
- Department of Hepatology, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China; Faculty of Chinese Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Avenida Wai Long, Taipa, Macau, 999078, China; Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Liver Diseases of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China; Department of Hepatology, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China.
| | - Lidan Luo
- Department of Hepatology, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China; Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Liver Diseases of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China.
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Lin XL, Zeng YL, Ning J, Cao Z, Bu LL, Liao WJ, Zhang ZM, Zhao TJ, Fu RG, Yang XF, Gong YZ, Lin LM, Cao DL, Zhang CP, Liao DF, Li YM, Zeng JG. Nicotinate-curcumin improves NASH by inhibiting the AKR1B10/ACCα-mediated triglyceride synthesis. Lipids Health Dis 2024; 23:201. [PMID: 38937844 PMCID: PMC11210137 DOI: 10.1186/s12944-024-02162-5] [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: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a prevalent chronic liver condition. However, the potential therapeutic benefits and underlying mechanism of nicotinate-curcumin (NC) in the treatment of NASH remain uncertain. METHODS A rat model of NASH induced by a high-fat and high-fructose diet was treated with nicotinate-curcumin (NC, 20, 40 mg·kg- 1), curcumin (Cur, 40 mg·kg- 1) and metformin (Met, 50 mg·kg- 1) for a duration of 4 weeks. The interaction between NASH, Cur and Aldo-Keto reductase family 1 member B10 (AKR1B10) was filter and analyzed using network pharmacology. The interaction of Cur, NC and AKR1B10 was analyzed using molecular docking techniques, and the binding energy of Cur and NC with AKR1B10 was compared. HepG2 cells were induced by Ox-LDL (25 µg·ml- 1, 24 h) in high glucose medium. NC (20µM, 40µM), Cur (40µM) Met (150µM) and epalrestat (Epa, 75µM) were administered individually. The activities of ALT, AST, ALP and the levels of LDL, HDL, TG, TC and FFA in serum were quantified using a chemiluminescence assay. Based on the changes in the above indicators, score according to NAS standards. The activities of Acetyl-CoA and Malonyl-CoA were measured using an ELISA assay. And the expression and cellular localization of AKR1B10 and Acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACCα) in HepG2 cells were detected by Western blotting and immunofluorescence. RESULTS The results of the animal experiments demonstrated that NASH rat model induced by a high-fat and high-fructose diet exhibited pronounced dysfunction in liver function and lipid metabolism. Additionally, there was a significant increase in serum levels of FFA and TG, as well as elevated expression of AKR1B10 and ACCα, and heightened activity of Acetyl-CoA and Malonyl-CoA in liver tissue. The administration of NC showed to enhance liver function in rats with NASH, leading to reductions in ALT, AST and ALP levels, and decrease in blood lipid and significant inhibition of FFA and TG synthesis in the liver. Network pharmacological analysis identified AKR1B10 and ACCα as potential targets for NASH treatment. Molecular docking studies revealed that both Cur and NC are capable of binding to AKR1B10, with NC exhibiting a stronger binding energy to AKR1B10. Western blot analysis demonstrated an upregulation in the expression of AKR1B10 and ACCα in the liver tissue of NASH rats, accompanied by elevated Acetyl-CoA and Malonyl-CoA activity, and increased levels of FFA and TG. The results of the HepG2 cell experiments induced by Ox-LDL suggest that NC significantly inhibited the expression and co-localization of AKR1B10 and ACCα, while also reduced levels of TC and LDL-C and increased level of HDL-C. These effects are accompanied by a decrease in the activities of ACCα and Malonyl-CoA, and levels of FFA and TG. Furthermore, the impact of NC appears to be more pronounced compared to Cur. CONCLUSION NC could effectively treat NASH and improve liver function and lipid metabolism disorder. The mechanism of NC is related to the inhibition of AKR1B10/ACCα pathway and FFA/TG synthesis of liver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiu-Lian Lin
- Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Bulk Herbs of Hunan Province, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, 410208, Hunan, China
| | - Ya-Ling Zeng
- Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Bulk Herbs of Hunan Province, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, 410208, Hunan, China
| | - Jie Ning
- Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Bulk Herbs of Hunan Province, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, 410208, Hunan, China
- Department of Endocrinology, Shenzhen Longhua District Central Hospital, Guangdong Medical University Affiliated Longhua Central Hospital, Shenzhen, 518110, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhe Cao
- Hunan Laituofu Biotechnology Co., Ltd, Jinzhou New District, Ningxiang, 410604, Hunan, China
| | - Lan-Lan Bu
- Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Bulk Herbs of Hunan Province, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, 410208, Hunan, China
| | - Wen-Jing Liao
- Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Bulk Herbs of Hunan Province, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, 410208, Hunan, China
| | - Zhi-Min Zhang
- Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Bulk Herbs of Hunan Province, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, 410208, Hunan, China
| | - Tan-Jun Zhao
- Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Bulk Herbs of Hunan Province, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, 410208, Hunan, China
| | - Rong-Geng Fu
- Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Bulk Herbs of Hunan Province, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, 410208, Hunan, China
| | - Xue-Feng Yang
- Hunan Provincial Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease, Hengyang, 421002, Hunan, China
| | - Yong-Zhen Gong
- Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Bulk Herbs of Hunan Province, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, 410208, Hunan, China
| | - Li-Mei Lin
- Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Bulk Herbs of Hunan Province, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, 410208, Hunan, China
| | - De-Liang Cao
- Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Bulk Herbs of Hunan Province, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, 410208, Hunan, China
- Hunan Laituofu Biotechnology Co., Ltd, Jinzhou New District, Ningxiang, 410604, Hunan, China
| | - Cai-Ping Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, China
| | - Duan-Fang Liao
- Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Bulk Herbs of Hunan Province, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, 410208, Hunan, China.
- Hunan Provincial Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease, Hengyang, 421002, Hunan, China.
| | - Ya-Mei Li
- Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Bulk Herbs of Hunan Province, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, 410208, Hunan, China.
| | - Jian-Guo Zeng
- Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Bulk Herbs of Hunan Province, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, 410208, Hunan, China.
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, 410128, Hunan, China.
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Ding X, He X, Tang B, Lan T. Integrated traditional Chinese and Western medicine in the prevention and treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: future directions and strategies. Chin Med 2024; 19:21. [PMID: 38310315 PMCID: PMC10838467 DOI: 10.1186/s13020-024-00894-1] [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: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been widely used for several centuries for metabolic diseases, including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). At present, NAFLD has become the most prevalent form of chronic liver disease worldwide and can progress to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), cirrhosis, and even hepatocellular carcinoma. However, there is still a lack of effective treatment strategies in Western medicine. The development of NAFLD is driven by multiple mechanisms, including genetic factors, insulin resistance, lipotoxicity, mitochondrial dysfunction, endoplasmic reticulum stress, inflammation, gut microbiota dysbiosis, and adipose tissue dysfunction. Currently, certain drugs, including insulin sensitizers, statins, vitamin E, ursodeoxycholic acid and betaine, are proven to be beneficial for the clinical treatment of NAFLD. Due to its complex pathogenesis, personalized medicine that integrates various mechanisms may provide better benefits to patients with NAFLD. The holistic view and syndrome differentiation of TCM have advantages in treating NAFLD, which are similar to the principles of personalized medicine. In TCM, NAFLD is primarily classified into five types based on clinical experience. It is located in the liver and is closely related to spleen and kidney functions. However, due to the multi-component characteristics of traditional Chinese medicine, its application in the treatment of NAFLD has been considerably limited. In this review, we summarize the advances in the pathogenesis and treatment of NAFLD, drawn from both the Western medicine and TCM perspectives. We highlight that Chinese and Western medicine have complementary advantages and should receive increased attention in the prevention and treatment of NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Ding
- School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Center, 280 Wai Huan Dong Road, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Xu He
- School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Center, 280 Wai Huan Dong Road, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Bulang Tang
- School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Center, 280 Wai Huan Dong Road, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Tian Lan
- School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Center, 280 Wai Huan Dong Road, Guangzhou, 510006, China.
- School of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150086, China.
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Xue Y, Wei Y, Cao L, Shi M, Sheng J, Xiao Q, Cheng Z, Luo T, Jiao Q, Wu A, Chen C, Zhong L, Zhang C. Protective effects of scutellaria-coptis herb couple against non-alcoholic steatohepatitis via activating NRF2 and FXR pathways in vivo and in vitro. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 318:116933. [PMID: 37482263 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2023] [Revised: 07/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Scutellaria-coptis herb couple (SC) is a classic herbal pair used in many Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) formulations in the treatment of endocrine and metabolic deseases. Diabetes mellitus and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) are both endocrine and metabolic diseases. Previous studies have shown that SC has anti-diabetic effects. However, the effect and mechanism of SC against NASH remains unclear. AIM OF THE STUDY This study aimed to demonstrate the effect and mechanism of SC against NASH through the nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and farnesoid X receptor (FXR) dual signaling pathways in vivo and in vitro. MATERIALS AND METHODS The high fat diet-fed rat model, and HepG2 and RAW264.7 cell models were used. Serum biochemical indexes and liver histopathological changes were examined. Metabolomics, transcriptomics, and flow cytometry were performed. RT-qPCR and western blot analysis were performed to provide expression of NRF2 and FXR pathway signal molecules during SC's anti-NASH treatment in vivo and in vitro. RESULTS SC had anti-NASH effects in vivo with significantly improvement of serum NASH biochemical index and hepatopathological structure; meanwhile, SC significantly elevated the expression levels of FXR protein in liver and intestinal tissues, and cholesterol 7a-hydroxylase (CYP7A1) protein in liver. The mRNA expression levels of Takeda G protein receptor 5 (TGR5), CYP7A1, fibroblast growth factor receptor-4 (FGFR4), FXR, small heterodimer partner (SHP), fibroblast growth factor 15/19 (FGF15/19) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) were significantly elevated by SC. SC reduced the levels of NorCA, isoLCA and α-MCA in the feces of NAFLD rats. In vitro, SC-containing serum (SC-CS) was found to significantly reduce intracellular lipid deposition, inhibit ROS production, reduce intracellular Malondialdehyde (MDA) and IL-1β levels, and enhance the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px). Six differential genes closely related to oxidative stress and Nrf2 were identified by transcriptomic analysis. SC-CS up-regulated the expression of NRF2, and reduced the expression of TXNIP and Caspase-1 genes in RAW264.7 cells. In addition, SC-CS reduced the expression of Keap1 and NF-κB, and up-regulated the expression of Nrf2, heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1), and SOD; SC-CS elevated the protein level of NRF2, and reduced the protein level of TXNIP in HepG2 cells. CONCLUSIONS the mechanisms of SC action against NASH was closely related to the simultaneous activations of both NRF2 and FXR signaling pathways. These findings provide a new insight into the anti-NASH application of SC in clinical settings and demonstrate the potential of SC in the treatment of NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanan Xue
- College of Pharmacy, Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330004, PR China
| | - Yue Wei
- College of Pharmacy, Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330004, PR China
| | - Lan Cao
- Research Center of Chinese Medicine Resources and Ethnic Medicine, Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine, PR China
| | - Min Shi
- College of Life Science, Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330004, PR China
| | - Junqing Sheng
- College of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330031, PR China
| | - Qin Xiao
- College of Pharmacy, Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330004, PR China
| | - Ziwen Cheng
- College of Pharmacy, Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330004, PR China
| | - Tao Luo
- First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, 330006, PR China
| | - Quanhui Jiao
- College of Pharmacy, Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330004, PR China
| | - Ailan Wu
- College of Pharmacy, Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330004, PR China
| | - Chen Chen
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia.
| | - Lingyun Zhong
- College of Pharmacy, Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330004, PR China.
| | - Changhua Zhang
- College of Pharmacy, Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330004, PR China; Nanchang Research Institute, Sun Yat-sen University, Jiangxi, 330096, PR China.
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Xue Y, Wei Y, Cao L, Shi M, Sheng J, Xiao Q, Cheng Z, Luo T, Jiao Q, Wu A, Chen C, Zhong L, Zhang C. Protective effects of scutellaria-coptis herb couple against non-alcoholic steatohepatitis via activating NRF2 and FXR pathways in vivo and in vitro. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 318:116933. [DOI: https:/doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2023.116933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/14/2024]
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Chu H, Zhang W, Tan Y, Diao Z, Li P, Wu Y, Xie L, Sun J, Yang K, Li P, Xie C, Li P, Hua Q, Xu X. Qing-Zhi-Tiao-Gan-Tang (QZTGT) prevents nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) by expression pattern correction. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 317:116665. [PMID: 37279813 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116665] [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: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Qing-Zhi-Tiao-Gan-Tang or Qing-Zhi-Tiao-Gan Decoction (QZTGT) is based on the compatibility theory of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), that is a combination of three classical formulae for the treatment of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Its pharmacodynamic material basis is made up of quinones, flavanones, and terpenoids. AIM OF THE STUDY This study aimed to look for a promising recipe for treating nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a more advanced form of NAFLD, and to use a transcriptome-based multi-scale network pharmacological platform (TMNP) to find its therapy targets. MATERIALS AND METHODS A classical dietary model of NASH was established using MCD (Methionine- and choline-deficient) diet-fed mice. Liver coefficients like ALT, AST, serum TC, and TG levels were tested following QZTGT administration. A transcriptome-based multi-scale network pharmacological platform (TMNP) was used to further analyze the liver gene expression profile. RESULTS The composition of QZTGT was analyzed by HPLC-Q-TOF/MS, a total of 89 compounds were separated and detected and 31 of them were found in rat plasma. QZTGT improved liver morphology, inflammation and fibrosis in a classical NASH model. Transcriptomic analysis of liver samples from NASH animal model revealed that QZTGT was able to correct gene expression. We used transcriptome-based multi-scale network pharmacological platform (TMNP) to predicted molecular pathways regulated by QZTGT to improve NASH. Further validation indicated that "fatty acid degradation", "bile secretion" and "steroid biosynthesis" pathways were involved in the improvement of NASH phenotype by QZTGT. CONCLUSIONS Using HPLC-Q-TOF/MS, the compound composition of QZTGT, a Traditional Chinese prescription, was separated, analyzed and identified systematically. QZTGT mitigated NASH symptoms in a classical dietary model of NASH. Transcriptomic and network pharmacology analysis predicted the potential QZTGT regulated pathways. These pathways could be used as therapeutic targets for NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hang Chu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, 210009, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Weitao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, 210009, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yan Tan
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Zhipeng Diao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, 210009, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Peng Li
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Yapeng Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, 210009, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Like Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, 210009, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jianguo Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, 210009, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ke Yang
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Pingping Li
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100050, China; Diabetes Research Center of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Cen Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Ping Li
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, 210009, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qian Hua
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China.
| | - Xiaojun Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, 210009, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
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Wu X, Zhang Y, Zheng D, Yin Y, Peng M, Wang J, Zhu X. Prediction of the mechanisms of action of Qutan Huoxue decoction in non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH): a network pharmacology study and experimental validation. PHARMACEUTICAL BIOLOGY 2023; 61:520-530. [PMID: 36908041 PMCID: PMC10013566 DOI: 10.1080/13880209.2023.2182892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Qutan Huoxue decoction (QTHX) is used to treat non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) with good efficacy in the clinic. However, the mechanism is not clear yet. OBJECTIVE This study investigates the mechanism of QTHX in the treatment of NASH. MATERIALS AND METHODS Potential pathways of QTHX were predicted by network pharmacology. Fourty Sprague Dawley (SD) rats (half normal diet, half high-fat diet) were fed six to eight weeks, primary hepatocytes and Kupffer cells were extracted and co-cultured by the 0.4-micron trans well culture system. Then, the normal co-cultured cells were treated by normal serum, the NASH co-cultured cells were treated with various concentrations of QTHX-containing serum (0, 5, 7.5 or 10 μg/mL) for 24 h. The expression of targets were measured with Activity Fluorometric Assay, Western blot and PCR assay. RESULTS Network pharmacology indicated that liver-protective effect of QTHX was associated with its anti-inflammation response, oxidative stress, and lipid receptor signalling. 10 μg/mL QTHX significantly reduced the inflammation response and lipid levels in primary hepatocytes (ALT: 46.43 ± 2.76 U/L, AST: 13.96 ± 1.08 U/L, TG: 0.25 ± 0.01 mmol/L, TC: 0.14 ± 0.05 mmol/L), comparing with 0 μg/mL NASH group (ALT: 148 ± 9.22 U/L, AST: 53.02 ± 2.30 U/L, TG: 0.74 ± 0.07 mmol/L, TC: 0.91 ± 0.07 mmol/L) (p < 0.01). Meanwhile, QTHX increased expression of SOCS1 and decreased expression of TLR4, Myd88, NF-κB. CONCLUSIONS The study suggested that QTHX treats NASH in rats by activating the SCOS1/NF-κB/TLR4 pathway, suggesting QTHX could be further developed as a potential liver-protecting agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xia Wu
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese & Western Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Yurong Zhang
- Hepatobiliary Department, The Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Ding Zheng
- Hepatobiliary Department, The Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Yue Yin
- Hepatobiliary Department, The Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Mengyun Peng
- Hepatobiliary Department, The Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Hepatobiliary Department, The Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Xiaoning Zhu
- Hepatobiliary Department, The Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
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Wang X, Liu X, Gao Q, Gu X, Zhang G, Sheng Z, Wu T, Su Z, Wang W, Ye M. Gegen Qinlian Decoction treatment of asymptomatic hyperuricemia by targeting circadian immune function. Chin Med 2023; 18:77. [PMID: 37370132 DOI: 10.1186/s13020-023-00775-z] [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: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Gegen Qinlian Decoction (GGQLD) is a renowned traditional Chinese medicinal formula that has been used for centuries to effectively treat asymptomatic Hyperuricemia (HUA). This study aims to investigate the underlying mechanism of GGQLD's therapeutic effects on HUA. METHODS The study enrolled a total of 25 healthy participants and 32 middle-aged and elderly individuals with asymptomatic HUA. All asymptomatic HUA participants were treated with GGQLD. Venous blood samples were collected from all participants to isolate peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), which were then analyzed for biological profiles using flow cytometry. Network pharmacology analysis was utilized to identify the potential pathways involved in the therapeutic effects of GGQLD. Transcriptomic patterns of cultured proximal tubule epithelial cells (PTECs) were evaluated via bulk RNA-seq, and critical differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified and verified through ELISA. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics (MD) simulation were employed to investigate the potential compounds in GGQLD that may be involved in treating HUA. RESULTS Network pharmacology analysis revealed that immune-related pathways might be involved in the therapeutic mechanism of GGQLD. RNA-seq analysis confirmed the involvement of innate lymphoid cell (ILC) development-related genes and clock genes. Polychromatic flow cytometric analysis demonstrated that GGQLD treatment reduced the proportion of ILC3s in total ILCs in asymptomatic HUA patients. ELISA results showed that GGQLD treatment reduced the levels of activating factors, such as ILC3-IL-18 and IL-1β, in the plasma of HUA patients. GGQLD was also found to regulate circadian clock gene expression in PBMCs to treat asymptomatic HUA. Furthermore, the interaction between 40 compounds in GGQLD and HDAC3 (Histone Deacetylase 3), NLRP3 (NOD-like receptor protein 3), RORA (RAR-related orphan receptor A), and REV-ERBα (nuclear receptor subfamily 1) revealed that GGQLD may regulate ILCs and clock genes to treat asymptomatic HUA. CONCLUSIONS The regulation of circadian clock gene expression and the proportion of ILC cells may be involved in the therapeutic effects of GGQLD on asymptomatic HUA patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojun Wang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Huadong Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, No 221West Yan-An Road, Shanghai, 200040, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Clinical Geriatric Medicine, Huadong Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, No 221 West Yan-An Road, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Xuanqi Liu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Medicine, Huadong Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Qiushuang Gao
- China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Xuchao Gu
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Huadong Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, No 221West Yan-An Road, Shanghai, 200040, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Clinical Geriatric Medicine, Huadong Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, No 221 West Yan-An Road, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Guannan Zhang
- Department of Immunology, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhiyuan Sheng
- Department of Urology, Huadong Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Tao Wu
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Huadong Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, No 221West Yan-An Road, Shanghai, 200040, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Clinical Geriatric Medicine, Huadong Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, No 221 West Yan-An Road, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Zheling Su
- Department of Nephrology, Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200437, China.
| | - Wenhao Wang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Huadong Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, No 221West Yan-An Road, Shanghai, 200040, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Clinical Geriatric Medicine, Huadong Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, No 221 West Yan-An Road, Shanghai, 200040, China.
| | - Maoqing Ye
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Clinical Geriatric Medicine, Huadong Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, No 221 West Yan-An Road, Shanghai, 200040, China.
- Department of Cardiology, Huadong Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China.
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Li Z, Ouyang H, Zhu J. Traditional Chinese medicines and natural products targeting immune cells in the treatment of metabolic-related fatty liver disease. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1195146. [PMID: 37361209 PMCID: PMC10289001 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1195146] [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: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
MAFLD stands for metabolic-related fatty liver disease, which is a prevalent liver disease affecting one-third of adults worldwide, and is strongly associated with obesity, hyperlipidemia, and type 2 diabetes. It encompasses a broad spectrum of conditions ranging from simple liver fat accumulation to advanced stages like chronic inflammation, tissue damage, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and even hepatocellular carcinoma. With limited approved drugs for MAFLD, identifying promising drug targets and developing effective treatment strategies is essential. The liver plays a critical role in regulating human immunity, and enriching innate and adaptive immune cells in the liver can significantly improve the pathological state of MAFLD. In the modern era of drug discovery, there is increasing evidence that traditional Chinese medicine prescriptions, natural products and herb components can effectively treat MAFLD. Our study aims to review the current evidence supporting the potential benefits of such treatments, specifically targeting immune cells that are responsible for the pathogenesis of MAFLD. By providing new insights into the development of traditional drugs for the treatment of MAFLD, our findings may pave the way for more effective and targeted therapeutic approaches.
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Zhu M, Wang X, Wang K, Zhao Z, Dang Y, Ji G, Li F, Zhou W. Lingguizhugan decoction improves non-alcoholic steatohepatitis partially by modulating gut microbiota and correlated metabolites. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1066053. [PMID: 36779187 PMCID: PMC9908757 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1066053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Lingguizhugan decoction is a traditional Chinese medicine prescription that has been used to improve non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and its progressive form, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). However, the anti-NASH effects and underlying mechanisms of Lingguizhugan decoction remain unclear. Methods Male Sprague-Dawley rats were fed a methionine- and choline-deficient (MCD) diet to induce NASH, and then given Lingguizhugan decoction orally for four weeks. NASH indexes were evaluated by histopathological analysis and biochemical parameters including serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), liver triglycerides (TG), etc. Fecal samples of rats were subjected to profile the changes of gut microbiota and metabolites using 16S rRNA sequencing and ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS). Bioinformatics was used to identify Lingguizhugan decoction reversed candidates, and Spearman's correlation analysis was performed to uncover the relationship among gut microbiota, fecal metabolites, and NASH indexes. Results Four-week Lingguizhugan decoction treatment ameliorated MCD diet-induced NASH features, as evidenced by improved hepatic steatosis and inflammation, as well as decreased serum AST and ALT levels. Besides, Lingguizhugan decoction partially restored the changes in gut microbial community composition in NASH rats. Meanwhile, the relative abundance of 26 genera was significantly changed in NASH rats, and 11 genera (such as odoribacter, Ruminococcus_1, Ruminococcaceae_UCG-004, etc.) were identified as significantly reversed by Lingguizhugan decoction. Additionally, a total of 99 metabolites were significantly altered in NASH rats, and 57 metabolites (such as TDCA, Glutamic acid, Isocaproic acid, etc.) enriched in different pathways were reversed by Lingguizhugan decoction. Furthermore, Spearman's correlation analyses revealed that most of the 57 metabolites were significantly correlated with 11 genera and NASH indexes. Conclusion Lingguizhugan decoction may exert protective effects on NASH partially by modulating gut microbiota and correlated metabolites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingzhe Zhu
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- School of Public Health, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xue Wang
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Experiment Center for Science and Technology, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Kai Wang
- Experiment Center for Science and Technology, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhiqiang Zhao
- Experiment Center for Science and Technology, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanqi Dang
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Guang Ji
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Fenghua Li
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Experiment Center for Science and Technology, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenjun Zhou
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
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11
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Lu JZ, Hong DD, Ye D, Mu S, Shi R, Song Y, Feng C, Ma BL. Tissue distribution and integrated pharmacokinetic properties of major effective constituents of oral Gegen-Qinlian decoction in mice. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:996143. [PMID: 36304144 PMCID: PMC9592910 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.996143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Gegen-Qinlian decoction (GQD) is a classic traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula. GQD is effective against colon or liver-related diseases including ulcerative colitis, non-alcoholic fatty liver, and type 2 diabetes. In this study, a liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry method was developed, validated, and then applied to reveal the tissue distribution and integrated pharmacokinetic properties of major effective constituents of oral GQD in mice. The established method was quick, sensitive, and accurate enough to analyze GQD constituents in plasma and tissue homogenate samples quantitatively. According to their concentrations in the portal vein, systemic circulation, liver and colon samples of the mice after oral administration of GQD, the concentration-time curves of the constituents were respectively plotted. The results showed that daidzein, baicalin, and baicalein had relatively high exposure levels in the livers, while puerarin, berberine, epiberberine, coptisine, palmatine, jatrorrhizine, magnoflorine, glycyrrhizic acid, and glycyrrhetinic acid were enriched in the colons. Given that these constituents have significant biological activity, they could be regarded as the major effective constituents of GQD in treating colon or liver-related diseases, respectively. In addition, the integrated pharmacokinetic properties of GQD were studied. The GQD “integrated constituent” reached peak concentration at 4.0 h in the portal vein, the systemic circulation, the livers, and the colons, with half-lives of 1.5–4.1 h and mean retention time of 4.5–6.3 h, respectively. Furthermore, the concentration of the GQD “integrated constituent” in the colons was approximately 10 times higher than that in the livers, both of which were much higher than that in the systemic circulation, indicating its accumulation in these tissues, especially in the colons. In conclusion, the tissue distribution and integrated pharmacokinetic properties of oral GQD were revealed in the study. The results of the tissue distribution study would contribute to identifying the major target tissues and effective constituents of GQD, while the results of the integrated pharmacokinetic study would help to explain the pharmacokinetic properties of oral GQD as a whole.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Ze Lu
- Department of Pharmacology, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Dan-Dan Hong
- Department of Pharmacology, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Dan Ye
- Department of Pharmacology, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Sheng Mu
- Department of Pharmacology, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Rong Shi
- Experiment Center for Science and Technology, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu Song
- Department of Dermatology, Longhua Hospital Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Chu Feng
- Department of Surgery, Putuo District People’s Hospital, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Bing-Liang Ma, ; Chu Feng,
| | - Bing-Liang Ma
- Department of Pharmacology, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Bing-Liang Ma, ; Chu Feng,
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Liu T, Xu G, Liang L, Xiao X, Zhao Y, Bai Z. Pharmacological effects of Chinese medicine modulating NLRP3 inflammasomes in fatty liver treatment. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:967594. [PMID: 36160411 PMCID: PMC9492967 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.967594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammation is a key contributing factor in the pathogenesis of fatty liver diseases (FLD), such as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and alcohol-associated liver diseases (ALDs). The NLRP3 inflammasome is widely present in the hepatic parenchymal and non-parenchymal cells, which are assembled and activated by sensing intracellular and extracellular danger signals resulting in the matures of IL-1β/IL-18 and pyroptosis. Moreover, the aberrant activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome is considered the main factor to drives immune outbreaks in relation to hepatic injury, inflammation, steatosis, and fibrosis. Therefore, inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome may be a promising therapeutic target for FLD. Currently, accumulating evidence has revealed that a number of traditional Chinese medicines (TCM) exert beneficial effects on liver injury via inhibiting the NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Here, we summarized the mechanism of NLRP3 inflammasomes in the progression of FLD, and TCM exerts beneficial effects on FLD via positive modulation of inflammation. We describe that TCM is a promising valuable resource for the prevention and treatment agents against FLD and has the potential to be developed into clinical drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Liu
- Senior Department of Hepatology, Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
- Military Institute of Chinese Materia, Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University (The First People’s Hospital of Zunyi), Guizhou, China
| | - Guang Xu
- Military Institute of Chinese Materia, Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Zhaofang Bai, ; Guang Xu, ; Yanling Zhao,
| | - Longxin Liang
- Senior Department of Hepatology, Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaohe Xiao
- Senior Department of Hepatology, Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yanling Zhao
- Department of Pharmacy, The Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Zhaofang Bai, ; Guang Xu, ; Yanling Zhao,
| | - Zhaofang Bai
- Senior Department of Hepatology, Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
- Military Institute of Chinese Materia, Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Zhaofang Bai, ; Guang Xu, ; Yanling Zhao,
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Wang H, Wu Y, Tang W. Methionine cycle in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and its potential applications. Biochem Pharmacol 2022; 200:115033. [PMID: 35395242 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2022.115033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
As a chronic metabolic disease affecting epidemic proportions worldwide, the pathogenesis of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) is not clear yet. There is also a lack of precise biomarkers and specific medicine for the diagnosis and treatment of NAFLD. Methionine metabolic cycle, which is critical for the maintaining of cellular methylation and redox state, is involved in the pathophysiology of NAFLD. However, the molecular basis and mechanism of methionine metabolism in NAFLD are not completely understood. Here, we mainly focus on specific enzymes that participates in methionine cycle, to reveal their interconnections with NAFLD, in order to recognize the pathogenesis of NAFLD from a new angle and at the same time, explore the clinical characteristics and therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haoyu Wang
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, PR China; Laboratory of Anti-inflammation, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, PR China
| | - Yanwei Wu
- Laboratory of Anti-inflammation, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, PR China
| | - Wei Tang
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, PR China; Laboratory of Anti-inflammation, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, PR China.
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Mechanism of Gegen Qinlian Decoction Regulating ABTB1 Expression in Colorectal Cancer Metastasis Based on PI3K/AKT/FOXO1 Pathway. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 2022:8131531. [PMID: 35111848 PMCID: PMC8803423 DOI: 10.1155/2022/8131531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
It was to investigate the role of Gegen Qinlian decoction (GQD) in the regulation of ABTB1 gene based on PI3K/AKT/FOXO1 signaling pathway in colorectal cancer (CRC) metastasis. In this study, 10 cases of the CRC mouse model were established by inoculating CT26 cells into the spleen of mice, which were divided into the experimental group and the control group, 5 cases in each group; the control group was intragastrically administered with normal saline 0.3 mL/d, and the experimental group was intragastrically administered with GQD 0.2 mL/d at a ratio of 0.2 g medicinal materials/10 g for 10 days and sacrificed, and pathological sections were made. The expression density of signaling pathway PI3K/AKT/FOXO1 as well as gene ABTB1 was detected in the sections of the two groups, and the mechanism of action of this gene in the two groups of mice was studied. It was found that the densities of p-PI3K, p-AKT, and p-FOXO1 in the experimental group of mice were 26.55 g/cm3, 70.2 g/cm3, and 24.36 g/cm3, respectively, which were significantly increased compared with the control group, P < 0.05; the density of ABTB1 was 35.4 g/cm3, which was significantly increased compared with the control group, P < 0.05; the proliferation and migration ability of CRC cells in the experimental group were significantly decreased, P < 0.05. GQD can promote the expression of ABTB1 by activating the PI3K/AKT/FOXO1 signaling pathway, in order to inhibit the proliferation and growth ability of CRC cells.
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Modulation of the Wound Healing through Noncoding RNA Interplay and GSK-3 β/NF- κB Signaling Interaction. Int J Genomics 2021; 2021:9709290. [PMID: 34485505 PMCID: PMC8413067 DOI: 10.1155/2021/9709290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetic foot ulcers are seriously endangering the physical and mental health of patients. Due to the long duration of inflammation, the treatment of nonhealing wounds in diabetes is one of the most prominent healthcare problems in the world. The nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathway, a classical pathway that triggers inflammatory response, is regulated by many regulators, such as glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK-3β). Noncoding RNAs, a large class of molecules that regulate gene expression at the posttranscriptional or posttranslational level, play an important role in various stages of wound healing, especially in the stage of inflammation. Herein, we summarized the roles of noncoding RNAs in the NF-κB/GSK-3β signaling, which might provide new ideas for the treatment of diabetic wound healing.
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Chen M, Xie Y, Gong S, Wang Y, Yu H, Zhou T, Huang F, Guo X, Zhang H, Huang R, Han Z, Xing Y, Liu Q, Tong G, Zhou H. Traditional Chinese medicine in the treatment of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. Pharmacol Res 2021; 172:105849. [PMID: 34450307 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2021.105849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Revised: 08/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a common chronic liver disease in clinical practice. It has been considered that NASH is one of the main causes of chronic liver disease, cirrhosis and carcinoma. The mechanism of the NASH progression is complex, including lipid metabolism dysfunction, insulin resistance, oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, fibrosis and gut microbiota dysbiosis. Except for lifestyle modification and bariatric surgery, there has been no pharmacological therapy that is being officially approved in NASH treatment. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), as a conventional and effective therapeutic strategy, has been proved to be beneficial in treating NASH in numbers of studies. In the light of this, TCM may provide a potential therapy for treating NASH. In this review, we summarized the associated mechanisms of action TCM treating NASH in preclinical studies and systematically analysis the effectiveness of TCM treating NASH in current clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingtai Chen
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macao, PR China; Department of Cardiovascular Disease, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Ying Xie
- School of Pharmacy and State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macao, PR China
| | - Shenglan Gong
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Yunqiao Wang
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macao, PR China
| | - Hao Yu
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macao, PR China
| | - Tianran Zhou
- Department of Liver Disease, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Furong Huang
- Department of Liver Disease, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Xin Guo
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macao, PR China
| | - Huanhuan Zhang
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Ruolan Huang
- Department of Neurology, Shenzhen University Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Zhiyi Han
- Department of Liver Disease, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Yufeng Xing
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macao, PR China; Department of Liver Disease, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Qiang Liu
- Department of Cardiovascular Disease, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Guangdong Tong
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macao, PR China; Department of Liver Disease, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China.
| | - Hua Zhou
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macao, PR China; Joint Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine of the Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macao, PR China.
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Yu C, Yang C, Song X, Li J, Peng H, Qiu M, Yang L, Du H, Jiang X, Liu Y. Long Non-coding RNA Expression Profile in Broiler Liver with Cadmium-Induced Oxidative Damage. Biol Trace Elem Res 2021; 199:3053-3061. [PMID: 33078306 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-020-02436-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Cadmium pollution is serious heavy metal pollution in environmental pollution and impacts on livestock productivity. However, the effect and mechanisms of cadmium toxicity on the broiler remain unclear. This study aimed to explore the liver oxidative damage and reveal the related long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) expression patterns in the broiler liver with cadmium exposure. The broilers were fed with diets containing CdCl2 and detected the oxidative stress indexes in the liver tissues. Transcriptome sequencing of broiler liver was performed to identify cadmium exposure-related differentially expressed lncRNAs (DElncRNAs). The functions and pathways of DElncRNAs were analyzed by GO and KEGG. The sequencing results were verified by the quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Cadmium exposure induced tissue structure disorder, focal hemorrhage, and irregular hepatocytes in the broiler liver, and significantly decreased GSH level and enzyme activities, and increased MDA expression in the liver. A total of 74 DElncRNAs were obtained in cadmium group compared with the control group, which were enriched in the GO terms, including intrinsic apoptotic signaling pathway in response to DNA damage by p53 class mediator, branched-chain amino acid biosynthetic process. The enriched KEGG pathways, including lysine biosynthesis, valine, leucine and isoleucine biosynthesis, and pantothenate and CoA biosynthesis, were related to oxidative stress. PCR analysis indicated that the changes in ENSGALG00000053559, ENSGALG00000053926, and ENSGALG00000054404 expression were consistent with sequencing. Our results provide novel lncRNAs involved in oxidative stress in the broiler liver with cadmium exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunlin Yu
- Animal Breeding and Genetics key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Animal Science Academy, Chengdu, 610066, Sichuan, China
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Huimin Road, Wenjiang District, Chengdu, 611130, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Chaowu Yang
- Animal Breeding and Genetics key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Animal Science Academy, Chengdu, 610066, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiaoyan Song
- Animal Breeding and Genetics key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Animal Science Academy, Chengdu, 610066, Sichuan, China
| | - Jingjing Li
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Huimin Road, Wenjiang District, Chengdu, 611130, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Han Peng
- Animal Breeding and Genetics key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Animal Science Academy, Chengdu, 610066, Sichuan, China
| | - Mohan Qiu
- Animal Breeding and Genetics key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Animal Science Academy, Chengdu, 610066, Sichuan, China
| | - Li Yang
- Animal Breeding and Genetics key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Animal Science Academy, Chengdu, 610066, Sichuan, China
| | - Huarui Du
- Animal Breeding and Genetics key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Animal Science Academy, Chengdu, 610066, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiaosong Jiang
- Animal Breeding and Genetics key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Animal Science Academy, Chengdu, 610066, Sichuan, China
| | - Yiping Liu
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Huimin Road, Wenjiang District, Chengdu, 611130, Sichuan Province, China.
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Li Q, Cui Y, Xu B, Wang Y, Lv F, Li Z, Li H, Chen X, Peng X, Chen Y, Wu E, Qu D, Jian Y, Si H. Main active components of Jiawei Gegen Qinlian decoction protects against ulcerative colitis under different dietary environments in a gut microbiota-dependent manner. Pharmacol Res 2021; 170:105694. [PMID: 34087350 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2021.105694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
As an effective drug against acute enteritis diarrhea, Gegen Qinlian decoction (GQD) has a history of 2000 years. However, the potential molecular mechanism through which GQD could protect intestinal barrier from ulcerative colitis (UC) still remains undefined. As an important part of the homeostasis of the colon, gut microbiota is closely related to the dynamic evolution of the surrounding environment and the adjustment of dietary structure. At present, the effectiveness and mechanism of Jiawei Gegen Qinlian decoction against UC in different dietary environments are not clear. Here, the main active components of Jiawei Gegen Qinlian Decoction (PBM), were selected to construct a reasonable and effective compound scheme. We adopted "5% dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)" and "high temperature and humidity + high sugar and high fat + alcohol + 5%DSS" to induce UC rat models in general environment and UC rat models in Lingnan area, respectively. Then, we examined the therapeutic effects of PBM (89.96 mg/kg and 179.92 mg/kg) on two kinds of UC rats. The role of gut microbiota in the anti-UC effect of PBM was identified by intestinal flora consumption and fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) experiments. Subsequently, we monitored the alterations of gut microbiota and fecal metabolism in the rat colon by 16Sr DNA technique and targeted metabonomics, respectively. The colon inflammation of the PBM-treated and the FMT-treated rats both showed significant relief, as evidenced by a reduction in body weight loss, bloody stool, diarrhea, disease activity index (DAI) score, shortening of colon length as well as decreased colon histology damage. Interestingly enough, the depletion of intestinal flora took away the protective effect of PBM, confirming the importance of intestinal flora in the anti-UC effect of PBM. Then our findings suggested that PBM could not only regulate the gut microbiota by increasing Akkermansia and Romboutsia but also decrease Escherichia-Shigella. More importantly, PBM could increase the production of propionate and total short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in colitis rats, regulate medium and long chain fatty acids (M-LCFAs), maintain bile acids (BAs) homeostasis, and regulate amino acids (AAs) metabolism. The transformation of intestinal environment might be related to the upregulation of anti-inflammation, anti-oxidation and tight junction protein expression in colonic mucosa. In summary, PBM showed potential for anti-UC activity through gut microbiota dependence and was expected to be a complementary and alternative medicine herb therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinmei Li
- College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China.
| | - Yao Cui
- College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China.
| | - Baichang Xu
- College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China.
| | - Yuhan Wang
- College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China.
| | - Feifei Lv
- College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China.
| | - Zheng Li
- College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China.
| | - Huan Li
- College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China.
| | - Xiaogang Chen
- College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China.
| | - Xiaomin Peng
- College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China.
| | - Yating Chen
- College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China.
| | - Enyun Wu
- College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China.
| | - Dongshuai Qu
- College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China.
| | - Yichen Jian
- College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China.
| | - Hongbin Si
- College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China.
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Lu JZ, Ye D, Ma BL. Constituents, Pharmacokinetics, and Pharmacology of Gegen-Qinlian Decoction. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:668418. [PMID: 34025427 PMCID: PMC8139575 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.668418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Gegen-Qinlian decoction (GQD) is a classic traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula. It is composed of four TCMs, including Puerariae Lobatae Radix, Scutellariae Radix, Coptidis Rhizoma, and Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma Praeparata cum Melle. GQD is traditionally and clinically used to treat both the "external and internal symptoms" of diarrhea with fever. In this review, key words related to GQD were searched in the Web of Science, PubMed, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and other databases. Literature published mainly from 2000 to 2020 was screened and summarized. The main constituents of GQD could be classified into eight groups according to their structures: flavonoid C-glycosides, flavonoid O-glucuronides, benzylisoquinoline alkaloids, free flavonoids, flavonoid O-glycosides, coumarins, triterpenoid saponins, and others. The parent constituents of GQD that enter circulation mainly include puerarin and daidzein from Puerariae Lobatae Radix, baicalin and wogonoside from Scutellariae Radix, berberine and magnoflorine from Coptidis Rhizoma, as well as glycyrrhetinic acid and glycyrrhizic acid from Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma Praeparata cum Melle. GQD is effective against inflammatory intestinal diseases, including diarrhea, ulcerative colitis, and intestinal adverse reactions caused by chemotherapeutic agents. Moreover, GQD has significant effects on metabolic diseases, such as nonalcoholic fatty liver and type 2 diabetes. Furthermore, GQD can be used to treat lung injury. In brief, the main constituents, the pharmacokinetic and pharmacological profiles of GQD were summarized in this review. In addition, several issues of GQD including effective constituents, interactions between the constituents, pharmacokinetics, interaction potential with drugs and pharmacological effects were discussed, and related future researches were prospected in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Ze Lu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Dan Ye
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Bing-Liang Ma
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Zhang X, Li J, Yang B, Leng Q, Li J, Wang X, Lu J, Olatunji OJ, Tang J. Alleviation of Liver Dysfunction, Oxidative Stress, and Inflammation Underlines the Protective Effects of Polysaccharides from Cordyceps cicadae on High Sugar/High Fat Diet-Induced Metabolic Syndrome in Rats. Chem Biodivers 2021; 18:e2100065. [PMID: 33738897 DOI: 10.1002/cbdv.202100065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated the protective effects of two polysaccharides (CPA-1 and CPB-2) from Cordyceps cicadae against high fructose/high fat diet (HF/HFD) induced obesity and metabolic disorders in rats. Rats were either fed with normal diet or HF/HFD and treated with CPA-1 and CPB-2 (100 and 300 mg/kg) for 11 weeks. Administration of CPA-1 and CPB-2 significantly and dose dependently reduced body and liver weight, insulin and glucose tolerance, serum insulin and glucose levels. Furthermore, serum and hepatic lipid profiles, liver function enzymes and proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6) were markedly reduced. Additionally, CPA-1 and CPB-2 treatment alleviated hepatic oxidative stress by reducing lipid peroxidation level (MDA) and upregulating glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities as well as ameliorated histological alterations through the reduction of hepatic lipid accumulation. These results suggested that the polysaccharides from C. cicadae showed protective effects against HF/HFD induced metabolic disturbances and may be considered as a dietary supplement for treating obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Zhang
- Department of Medical Cosmetology, Linyi Central Hospital, Linyi, 276400, P. R. China
| | - Jinpeng Li
- Interventional Therapy Department Ward 1, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250117, P. R. China
| | - Bo Yang
- Department of Emergency, The People's Hospital of Zhaoyuan City, Zhaoyuan, 265400, P. R. China
| | - Qina Leng
- Urinary Surgery, The People's Hospital of Zhaoyuan City, Zhaoyuan, 265400, P. R. China
| | - Ji Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, People's Hospital of Hechuan, Chongqing, 401520, P. R. China
| | - Xintuan Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First People's Hospital of Xianyang, Xianyang, 712000, P. R. China
| | - Junyao Lu
- Department of Infectious Disease, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 201900, P. R. China
| | - Opeyemi Joshua Olatunji
- Faculty of Thai Traditional Medicine, Prince of Songkla University, Hat Yai, 90110, Thailand
| | - Jian Tang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Bozhou University, Bozhou, 236800, P. R. China
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21
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Ye M, Tang Y, He J, Yang Y, Cao X, Kou S, Wang L, Sheng L, Xue J. Alleviation of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease by Huazhi Fugan Granules is associated with suppression of TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway. CLINICA E INVESTIGACION EN ARTERIOSCLEROSIS 2021; 33:257-266. [PMID: 33810882 DOI: 10.1016/j.arteri.2020.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2020] [Revised: 11/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In parallel with the improvement of living standard, Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) becomes the most common liver disease around the world. Huazhi Fugan Granules (HZFGG) is a formula which is used to treating of fatty liver, Based on the data we studied, HZFGG may have potential as a therapeutic formula for the alleviation of NAFLD. OBJECTIVES The aim of our study was to identifying the improvement of HZFGG on NAFLD and exploring the potential mechanisms. METHODS MCD diet fed C57BL/6 mice once a day for 4 weeks to induce NAFLD model, HZFGG (10, 15, 20g/kg) orally administered simultaneously. The serum levels of TC, TG, ALT, AST were detected. H&E and Oil Red O staining were used to observed the liver sections. TNF-α, IL-1β and Gpx were also detected. The expression levels of TLR4, MyD88, p-NF-κB, NF-κB, p-IκBa were measured by western blotting assay. The apoptosis of the liver tissues were detected by TUNEL assay. RESULTS HZFGG decreased the serum levels of TC, TG, ALT, AST in MCD-diet mice. HZFGG alleviated inflammation by decreasing the levels of TNF-α and IL-1β and ameliorated oxidative stress through increased the level of Gpx. HZFGG Attenuates MCD-induced liver steatosis and injury in mice. Hepatocyte apoptosis was decreased after HZFGG treatment. Furthermore, HZFGG also suppressed the expression levels of TLR4 and MyD88, subsequently, inhibited the phosphorylation of NF-κB and IκBa. CONCLUSION HZFGG can improved MCD induced hepatic injury through inhibited TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway in NAFLD model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miaoqing Ye
- Department of Liver Disease, Shaanxi Provincial Hospital of traditional Chinese Medicine, Xi'an, China
| | - Yinghui Tang
- Department of Liver Disease, Shaanxi Provincial Hospital of traditional Chinese Medicine, Xi'an, China
| | - Jinyu He
- Department of Liver Disease, Shaanxi Provincial Hospital of traditional Chinese Medicine, Xi'an, China
| | - Yueqing Yang
- Department of Liver Disease, Shaanxi Provincial Hospital of traditional Chinese Medicine, Xi'an, China
| | - Xueyan Cao
- Department of Liver Disease, Shaanxi Provincial Hospital of traditional Chinese Medicine, Xi'an, China
| | - Shaojie Kou
- Department of Liver Disease, Shaanxi Provincial Hospital of traditional Chinese Medicine, Xi'an, China
| | - Lin Wang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai Pudong New Area People's Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Lingli Sheng
- Nephrology, Pudong branch of Longhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Jingdong Xue
- Department of Liver Disease, Shaanxi Provincial Hospital of traditional Chinese Medicine, Xi'an, China.
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22
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Zhang CH, Sheng JQ, Xie WH, Luo XQ, Xue YN, Xu GL, Chen C. Mechanism and Basis of Traditional Chinese Medicine Against Obesity: Prevention and Treatment Strategies. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:615895. [PMID: 33762940 PMCID: PMC7982543 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.615895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2020] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In the last few decades, the incidences of obesity and related metabolic disorders worldwide have increased dramatically. Major pathophysiology of obesity is termed "lipotoxicity" in modern western medicine (MWM) or "dampness-heat" in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). "Dampness-heat" is a very common and critically important syndrome to guild clinical treatment in TCM. However, the pathogenesis of obesity in TCM is not fully clarified, especially by MWM theories compared to TCM. In this review, the mechanism underlying the action of TCM in the treatment of obesity and related metabolic disorders was thoroughly discussed, and prevention and treatment strategies were proposed accordingly. Hypoxia and inflammation caused by lipotoxicity exist in obesity and are key pathophysiological characteristics of "dampness-heat" syndrome in TCM. "Dampness-heat" is prevalent in chronic low-grade systemic inflammation, prone to insulin resistance (IR), and causes variant metabolic disorders. In particular, the MWM theories of hypoxia and inflammation were applied to explain the "dampness-heat" syndrome of TCM, and we summarized and proposed the pathological path of obesity: lipotoxicity, hypoxia or chronic low-grade inflammation, IR, and metabolic disorders. This provides significant enrichment to the scientific connotation of TCM theories and promotes the modernization of TCM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang-Hua Zhang
- College of Pharmacy, Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, China
| | - Jun-Qing Sheng
- College of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Wei-Hua Xie
- College of Pharmacy, Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, China
| | - Xiao-Quan Luo
- Experimental Animal Science and Technology Center of TCM, Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, China
| | - Ya-Nan Xue
- College of Pharmacy, Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, China
| | - Guo-Liang Xu
- Research Center for Differentiation and Development of Basic Theory of TCM, Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, China
| | - Chen Chen
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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Gegen Qinlian Decoction Ameliorates Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Rats via Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and the NLRP3 Signal Axis. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2021; 2021:6659445. [PMID: 33643422 PMCID: PMC7902151 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6659445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Revised: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Gegen Qinlian Decoction (GQD), a classic Chinese herbal formula, has been widely used in Chinese clinic for centuries and is well defined in treating nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). However, the mechanism action of GQD on NAFLD is still rarely evaluated. The present study aims to investigate the effect of GQD on treatment of NAFLD in rats and to further explore the underlying mechanism. The rat NAFLD model established by high-fat-diet feeding was used in the research. Our results exhibited the liver lesions and steatosis was significantly alleviated in NAFLD rats treated with GQD via Oil Red O and H&E staining. Body weight and liver index in GQD groups were reduced significantly (P < 0.05). Moreover, the biochemical analyzer test results showed that GQD significantly decreased blood lipid levels total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and liver injury indicators alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP), while it increased the level of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) (P < 0.05). The levels of interferon-β (IFN-β), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and malondialdehyde (MDA) after the GQD treatment were significantly lower, and then interleukin-2 (IL-2), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) levels were lifted significantly (P < 0.05). Further, GQD blocked the expression of NLRP3, ASC, caspase-1 mRNA, and proteins in the liver tissues significantly (P < 0.05). These findings indicated that GQD can ameliorate the hepatic steatosis and injury of NAFLD. Its possible mechanism involves the modulation of inflammatory cytokines and antioxidative stress and the inhibition of NLRP3 signal axis activation. The results support that GQD may be a promising candidate in the treatment of NAFLD.
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Gao G, Xie Z, Li EW, Yuan Y, Fu Y, Wang P, Zhang X, Qiao Y, Xu J, Hölscher C, Wang H, Zhang Z. Dehydroabietic acid improves nonalcoholic fatty liver disease through activating the Keap1/Nrf2-ARE signaling pathway to reduce ferroptosis. J Nat Med 2021; 75:540-552. [PMID: 33590347 DOI: 10.1007/s11418-021-01491-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The accumulation of iron-dependent lipid peroxides is one of the important causes of NAFLD. The purpose of this study is to explore the effect of dehydroabietic acid (DA) on ferroptosis in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) mice and its possible mechanisms. DA improved NAFLD and reduced triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), and lipid peroxidation level and inhibited ferroptosis in the liver of HFD-induced mice. DA binds with Keap1 to form 3 stable hydrogen bonds at VAL512 and LEU557 and increased nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)-antioxidant response elemen (ARE) luciferase activity. DA promoted the expression downstream of Nrf2 such as heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), glutathione (GSH) and its peroxidase 4 (GPX4), so as to eliminate the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reduce lipid peroxides malondialdehyde (MDA) in the liver. DA inhibited ferroptosis and increased the expression of key genes such as ferroptosis suppressor protein 1 (FSP1) in vitro and vivo. In all, DA may bind with Keap1, activate Nrf2-ARE, induce its target gene expression, inhibit ROS accumulation and lipid peroxidation, and reduce HFD-induced NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gai Gao
- Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450046, China.,College of Pharmacy, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Zhishen Xie
- Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Er-Wen Li
- Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Yong Yuan
- Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Yu Fu
- College of Pharmacy, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Pan Wang
- Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Xiaowei Zhang
- Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Yonghui Qiao
- Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Jiangyan Xu
- Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Christian Hölscher
- Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Hui Wang
- College of Pharmacy, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450046, China.
| | - Zhenqiang Zhang
- Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450046, China.
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Network Pharmacology-Based Study on the Mechanism of Gegen Qinlian Decoction against Colorectal Cancer. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2020; 2020:8897879. [PMID: 33294000 PMCID: PMC7714584 DOI: 10.1155/2020/8897879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Revised: 10/17/2020] [Accepted: 10/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Purpose Gegen Qinlian decoction (GQD) has been used to treat gastrointestinal diseases, such as diarrhea and ulcerative colitis (UC). A recent study demonstrated that GQD enhanced the effect of PD-1 blockade in colorectal cancer (CRC). This study used network pharmacology analysis to investigate the mechanisms of GQD as a potential therapeutic approach against CRC. Materials and Methods Bioactive chemical ingredients (BCIs) of GQD were collected from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology (TCMSP) database. CRC-specific genes were obtained using the gene expression profile GSE110224 from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Target genes related to BCIs of GQD were then screened out. The GQD-CRC ingredient-target pharmacology network was constructed and visualized using Cytoscape software. A protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was subsequently constructed and analyzed with BisoGenet and CytoNCA plug-in in Cytoscape. Gene Ontology (GO) functional and the Kyoto Encyclopaedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis for target genes were then performed using the R package of clusterProfiler. Results One hundred and eighteen BCIs were determined to be effective on CRC, including quercetin, wogonin, and baicalein. Twenty corresponding target genes were screened out including PTGS2, CCNB1, and SPP1. Among these genes, CCNB1 and SPP1 were identified as crucial to the PPI network. A total of 212 GO terms and 6 KEGG pathways were enriched for target genes. Functional analysis indicated that these targets were closely related to pathophysiological processes and pathways such as biosynthetic and metabolic processes of prostaglandins and prostanoids, cytokine and chemokine activities, and the IL-17, TNF, Toll-like receptor, and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathways. Conclusion The study elucidated the “multiingredient, multitarget, and multipathway” mechanisms of GQD against CRC from a systemic perspective, indicating GQD to be a candidate therapy for CRC treatment.
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