Icariin stimulates the osteogenic differentiation of rat bone marrow stromal cells via activating the PI3K-AKT-eNOS-NO-cGMP-PKG

Therapeutic Nanodiamonds Containing Icariin Ameliorate the Progression of Osteoarthritis in Rats

In present study, icariin (ICA)/tannic acid (TA)-nanodiamonds (NDs) were prepared as follows. ICA was anchored to ND surfaces with absorbed TA (ICA/TA-NDs) and we evaluated their in vitro anti-inflammatory effects on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated macrophages and in vivo cartilage protective effects on a rat model of monosodium iodoacetate (MIA)-induced osteoarthritis (OA). The ICA/TA-NDs showed prolonged release of ICA from the NDs for up to 28 days in a sustained manner. ICA/TA-NDs inhibited the mRNA levels of pro-inflammatory elements, including matrix metalloproteinases-3 (MMP-3), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and increased the mRNA levels of anti-inflammatory factors (i.e., IL-4 and IL-10) in LPS-activated RAW 264.7 macrophages. Animal studies exhibited that intra-articular injection of ICA/TA-NDs notably suppressed levels of IL-6, MMP-3, and TNF-α and induced level of IL-10 in serum of MIA-induced OA rat models in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, these noticeable anti-inflammatory effects of ICA/TA-NDs remarkably contributed to the protection of the progression of MIA-induced OA and cartilage degradation, as exhibited by micro-computed tomography (micro-CT), gross findings, and histological investigations. Accordingly, in vitro and in vivo findings suggest that the prolonged ICA delivery of ICA/TA-NDs possesses an excellent latent to improve inflammation as well as defend against cartilage disorder in OA.

To investigate the association of serum osteocalcin with cognitive functional status in patients with type 2 diabetes: A systematic review with meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

To systematically evaluate the correlation between serum osteocalcin levels and cognitive function status in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) patients.

METHODS

This review was conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines, and was developed and submitted to PROSPERO (CRD42022339295). We comprehensively searched PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, Scopus, ProQuest, and Chinese Databases (China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wan Fang, Chinese Science and Technology Periodical Database, and China Biology Medicine) up to 1 June 2023. 3 investigators performed independent literature screening and data extraction of the included literature, and 2 investigators performed an independent quality assessment of case-control studies using the Newcastle-Ottawa-Scale tool. Data analysis was performed using Review Manager 5.4 software. For continuous various outcomes, mean difference (MD) or standardized MD with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) was applied for assessment by fixed-effect or random-effect model analysis. The heterogeneity test was performed by the Q statistic and quantified using I2, and publication bias was evaluated using a funnel plot.

RESULTS

9 studies with T2D were included (a total of 1310 subjects). Meta-analysis results indicated that cognitive function was more impaired in patients with lower serum osteocalcin levels [MD = 9.91, 95% CI (8.93, -10.89), I2 = 0%]. Serum osteocalcin levels were also significantly different between the 2 groups of T2D patients based on the degree of cognitive impairment [MD = -0.93, 95% CI (-1.09, -0.78), I2 = 41%]. It summarized the statistical correlation between serum osteocalcin and cognitive function scores in patients with T2D at r = 0.43 [summary Fisher's Z = 0.46, 95% CI (0.39, -0.50), I2 = 41%). After sensitivity analysis, the heterogeneity I2 decreased to 0%, indicating that the results of the meta-analysis are more reliable.

CONCLUSION SUBSECTIONS

Based on a meta-analysis of included studies, we concluded that there is a moderately strong positive correlation between serum osteocalcin levels and patients' cognitive function in T2D. An intervention to increase serum osteocalcin levels can contribute to delaying and improving cognitive decline in patients with T2D.

Enzymatic synthesis of anhydroicaritin, baohuoside and icariin

Anhydroicaritin (1a), baohuoside (1b) and icariin (1c) were recognized as major pharmacologically active ingredients of Epimedium plants. Their primary means of acquisition were chemical isolation from plants. However, it suffers from low yield, environmental pollution and shortage of plants. Herein, to remedy these problems, biosynthesis was explored to obtain the three active ingredients. Fortunately, with SfFPT as 8-prenyltransferase, EpPF3RT and Ep7GT as glycosyltransferases, kaempferide (1) was transferred to 1a, 1b and 1c enzymatically. Thus, we report the details of this method. This approach represents a promising environmental friendly alternative for the production of these compounds from an abundant analogue.

The potential of plant extracts in cell therapy

Cell therapy is the frontier technology of biotechnology innovation and the most promising method for the treatment of refractory diseases such as tumours. However, cell therapy has disadvantages, such as toxicity and poor therapeutic effects. Plant extracts are natural, widely available, and contain active small molecule ingredients that are widely used in the treatment of various diseases. By studying the effect of plant extracts on cell therapy, active plant extracts that have positive significance in cell therapy can be discovered, and certain contributions to solving the current problems of attenuation and adjuvant therapy in cell therapy can be made. Therefore, this article reviews the currently reported effects of plant extracts in stem cell therapy and immune cell therapy, especially the effects of plant extracts on the proliferation and differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells and nerve stem cells and the potential role of plant extracts in chimeric antigen receptor T-cell immunotherapy (CAR-T) and T-cell receptor modified T-cell immunotherapy (TCR-T), in the hope of encouraging further research and clinical application of plant extracts in cell therapy.

Molecular mechanisms regulating the pharmacological actions of icariin with special focus on PI3K-AKT and Nrf-2 signaling pathways

Icariin is a primary active component of the traditional Chinese medicinal plant Epimedium grandiflorum. A range of pharmacological effects of icariin has been researched by modern science to explain its traditional medicinal uses. Attributing to the wide range of pharmacological properties like anti-osteoporosis, anti-inflammation, anti-oxidative stress, anti-depression, and anti-tumor property possessed by icariin, it is now being considered a potential therapeutic agent for a wide variety of disorders ranging from neoplasm, neurodegenerative disorders, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular diseases. Various signaling pathways including NFκB/NALP3, IGF-1, MiR-223-3p/ NALP3, TLR4/ NFκB, and WNT1/β-catenin are involved in the different biological actions exerted by icariin. Apart from these pathways, PI3K-AKT (Phosphoinositide 3 kinase-Protein kinase B) and Nrf-2 (nuclear erythroid 2-related factor 2) signaling pathways are two important pathways that form the fundamental basis for the pharmaceutical efficacy of icariin. This review gives an overview of previous in vitro and in vivo studies that investigated the potential role of icariin via PI3K-AKT and Nrf-2 signaling pathways to provide greater insights into its potential clinical use in a variety of disorders.

Therapeutic Targeting Notch2 Protects Bone Micro-Vasculatures from Methotrexate Chemotherapy-Induced Adverse Effects in Rats

Intensive cancer chemotherapy is well known to cause bone vasculature disfunction and damage, but the mechanism is poorly understood and there is a lack of treatment. Using a rat model of methotrexate (MTX) chemotherapy (five once-daily dosses at 0.75 mg/kg), this study investigated the roles of the Notch2 signalling pathway in MTX chemotherapy-induced bone micro-vasculature impairment. Gene expression, histological and micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) analyses revealed that MTX-induced micro-vasculature dilation and regression is associated with the induction of Notch2 activity in endothelial cells and increased production of inflammatory cytokine tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) from osteoblasts (bone forming cells) and bone marrow cells. Blockade of Notch2 by a neutralising antibody ameliorated MTX adverse effects on bone micro-vasculature, both directly by supressing Notch2 signalling in endothelial cells and indirectly via reducing TNFα production. Furthermore, in vitro studies using rat bone marrow-derived endothelial cell revealed that MTX treatment induces Notch2/Hey1 pathway and negatively affects their ability in migration and tube formation, and Notch2 blockade can partially protect endothelial cell functions from MTX damage.

Deciphering the myth of icariin and synthetic derivatives in improving erectile function from a molecular biology perspective: a narrative review

Background and Objective

Although epimedium herb (EH) has been widely used in ancient Chinese medicine to enhance sexual activity, its pharmacological mechanism is not clear. Modern studies have shown that epimedium herb is rich in icariin (ICA, a flavonoid compound), and 91.2% of icariin is converted to icariside II (ICA II) by hydrolytic enzymes in intestinal bacteria after oral administration. YS-10 is a synthetic derivative of icariside II. The aim of this review was to summarize the contemporary evidence regarding the pharmacokinetics, therapeutic properties, and molecular biological mechanisms of ICA and some ICA derivatives for erectile dysfunction therapy.

Methods

A detailed search was conducted in the PubMed database using keywords and phrases, such as “icariin” AND “erectile dysfunction”, “icariside II” AND “erectile dysfunction”. The publication time is limited to last 20 years. Articles had to be published in peer reviewed journals.

Key Content and Findings

ICA and its some derivatives showed the specific inhibition on phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) and the promotion of testosterone synthesis. In addition, by regulating various reliable evidence of signaling pathways such as PI3K/AKT, TGFβ1/Smad2, p38/MAPK, Wnt and secretion of various cytokines, ICA and ICA derivatives can activate endogenous stem cells (ESCs) leading to endothelial cell and smooth muscle cell proliferation, nerve regeneration and fibrosis inhibition, repair pathological changes in penile tissue and improve erectile function.

Conclusions

ICA and some of its derivatives could be a potential treatment for restoring spontaneous erections. In addition ICA and his derivatives may also be valuable as a regenerative medicine approach for other diseases, but more clinical and basic researches with high quality and large samples are recommended.

Modulation of Osteogenic Differentiation of Adipose-Derived Stromal Cells by Co-Treatment with 3, 4'-Dihydroxyflavone, U0126, and N-Acetyl Cysteine

Background and Objectives

Flavonoids form the largest group of plant phenols and have various biological and pharmacological activities. In this study, we investigated the effect of a flavonoid, 3, 4’-dihydroxyflavone (3, 4’-DHF) on osteogenic differentiation of equine adipose-derived stromal cells (eADSCs).

Methods and Results

Treatment of 3, 4’-DHF led to increased osteogenic differentiation of eADSCs by increasing phosphorylation of ERK and modulating Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) generation. Although PD98059, an ERK inhibitor, suppressed osteogenic differentiation, another ERK inhibitor, U0126, apparently increased osteogenic differentiation of the 3, 4’-DHF-treated eADSCs, which may indicate that the effect of U0126 on bone morphogenetic protein signaling is involved in the regulation of 3, 4’-DHF in osteogenic differentiation of eADSCs. We revealed that 3, 4’-DHF could induce osteogenic differentiation of eADSCs by suppressing ROS generation and co-treatment of 3, 4’-DHF, U0126, and/or N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) resulted in the additive enhancement of osteogenic differentiation of eADSCs.

Conclusions

Our results showed that co-treatment of 3, 4’-DHF, U0126, and/or NAC cumulatively regulated osteogenesis in eADSCs, suggesting that 3, 4’-DHF, a flavonoid, can provide a novel approach to the treatment of osteoporosis and can provide potential therapeutic applications in therapeutics and regenerative medicine for human and companion animals.

Oridonin Delays Aging Through the AKT Signaling Pathway

Aging is a major risk factor for chronic diseases and disability in humans. Nowadays, no effective anti-aging treatment is available clinically. In this study, oridonin was selected based on the drug screening strategy similar to Connectivity MAP (CMAP) but upon transcriptomes of 102 traditional Chinese medicines treated cell lines. Oridonin is a diterpenoid isolated from Rabdosia rubescens. As reported, Oridonin exhibits a variety of pharmacological activities, including antitumor, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activities. Here, we found that oridonin inhibited cellular senescence in human diploid fibroblasts (2BS and WI-38), manifested by decreased senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-gal) staining. Compared with the elderly control group, the positive cell rate in the oridonin intervention group was reduced to 48.5%. Notably, oridonin prolonged the lifespan of yeast by 48.9%, and extended the average life span of naturally aged mice by 21.6%. Our mice behavior experiments exhibited that oridonin significantly improved the health status of naturally aged mice. In addition, oridonin also delayed doxorubicin-induced cellular senescence and mouse senescence. Compared with the model group, the percentage of SA-β-gal positive cells in the oridonin treatment group was reduced to 59.8%. It extended the average lifespan of mice by 53.8% and improved healthspan. Mechanistically, we showed that oridonin delayed aging through the AKT signaling pathway and reversed the genetic changes caused by doxorubicin-induced cell senescence. Therefore, oridonin is a potential candidate for the development of anti-aging drugs.

Osteoinductive hybrid hydrogel membranes for in situ bone regeneration in hyperglycemia

In hyperglycemia patients, suffering from insufficient vascularization and vascular network lesion, tissue regeneration, such as bone repair, is limited and maybe delayed by the secondary injury and hyperglycemic microenvironment. Typically, dental therapies involving guided bone regeneration is facing a difficult condition in the patients with diabetes. In this study, a hybrid membrane was endowed with biomimetic function to create an angiogenesis-inductive microenvironment by calcium ion release to overcome the limitations of bone tissue regeneration in diabetic patients. Biomineralized calcium resource was Janus-structured onto the surface of hybrid hydrogel by layer-by-layer technique to enhance vascularization and improve the bone regeneration in this study. The release of calcium ions from mineralized phases was controlled by the solubility of inorganic phases and the degradation of gels, promoting HIF-1α expression and creating a key role in angiogenesis stimulation. With highly enhanced calcium signaling and blood vessel formation, the hybrid hydrogel membranes improved the recruitment, proliferation and differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells and endothelial progenitors, confirmed by the enhancement of microvascular regeneration and new bone formation in the critical-sized calvarial defect in diabetic model in vivo. Our study demonstrates a translational potential of hybrid hydrogels engineered with inorganic minerals for orthopedic applications in hyperglycemia.

Osteoprotective effects of flavonoids: Evidence from in vivo and in vitro studies (Review)

Osteoporosis is a systemic bone disease characterized by decreased bone mass and quality and bone micro‑architecture degradation. Its primary cause is disorder of bone metabolism: Over‑formation of osteoclasts, resulting in increased bone resorption and insufficient osteogenesis. Traditional herbal flavonoids can be used as alternative drugs to prevent and treat osteoporosis due to their wide range of sources, structural diversity and less adverse effects. The present paper reviewed six flavonoids, including quercetin, icariin, hesperitin, naringin, chrysin and pueraria, that promote bone formation and have been widely studied in the literature over the past five years, with the aim of providing novel ideas for the development of drugs for bone‑associated disease.

Epimedium for Osteoporosis Based on Western and Eastern Medicine: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: The efficacy of conventional pharmacotherapy on osteoporosis was limited and accompanied with serious side effects. Epimedium might have the potential to be developed as agents to treat osteoporosis. The present systematic review and meta-analysis integrating Western medicine and Eastern medicine (“WE” medicine) was to evaluate the efficacy of Epimedium on osteoporosis.

Methods: Eleven electronic databases were searched to identify the randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing Epimedium as an adjunctive or alternative versus conventional pharmacotherapy during osteoporosis. Bone mineral density (BMD), effective rate, and Visual Analog Scale (VAS) were measured as primary outcomes. The secondary outcomes were pain relief time, bone metabolic markers, and adverse events. Research quality evaluation was conducted according to the modified Jadad scale. Review Manager 5.4 was utilized to perform analyses, and the data were pooled using a random-effect or fixed-effect model to calculate the weighted mean difference (WMD), standardized mean difference (SMD), risk ratio (RR), and 95% confidence intervals (CI).

Results: Twelve RCTs recruiting 1,017 patients were eligible. Overall, it was possible to verify that, in the Epimedium plus conventional pharmacotherapy group, BMD was significantly improved (p = 0.03), effective rate was significantly improved (p = 0.0001), and VAS was significantly decreased (p = 0.01) over those in control group. When compared to conventional pharmacotherapy, Epimedium used alone improved BMD (p = 0.009) and effective rate (p < 0.0001). VAS was lower (p < 0.00001), and the level of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) was significantly decreased (p = 0.01) in patients taking Epimedium alone compared with those given conventional pharmacotherapy. Results of subgroup analyses yielded that the recommended duration of Epimedium as an adjuvant was >3 months (p = 0.03), the recommended duration of Epimedium as an alternative was ≤3 months (p = 0.002), and Epimedium decoction brought more benefits (SMD = 2.33 [1.92, 2.75]) compared with other dosage forms. No significant publication bias was identified based on statistical tests (t = 0.81, p = 0.440).

Conclusions: Epimedium may improve BMD and effective rate and relieve pain as an adjuvant or alternative; Epimedium as an alternative might regulate bone metabolism, especially ALP, with satisfying clinical efficacy during osteoporosis. More rigorous RCTs are warranted to confirm these results.

TSG Targeting KDM5A Affects Osteogenic Differentiation of Bone Mesenchymal Stem Cells Induced by Bone Morphogenetic Protein 2

Objectives. To investigate the effect of 2,3,5,4′-tetrahydroxystilbene-2-O-β-D-glucoside (TSG) on the osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) and its molecular mechanism. Methods. After TSG treatment of rBMSCs, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity was compared between the drug treatment group and the control group. The effects of TSG on alkaline phosphatase positive cloning and mineralized nodule formation were also detected. Total mRNA and protein were extracted, and the effects of TSG on the expression levels of osteopontin (OPN), osteocalcin (OCN), Runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), Osterix, and Col1a1 were detected by real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR. Western blotting was used to detect the inhibitory effect of TSG on KDM5A. BMSCs were transfected with small interfering RNA (siRNA) targeting KDM5A (si-KMD5A) and pcDNA3.1 KMD5A. Results. TSG significantly increased the activity of ALP, the number of alkaline phosphatase clones, and calcified nodule formation. The OPN, OCN, Runx2, and Osterix expression levels were significantly increased among the osteoblasts after TSG treatment. A mechanistic study showed that the effect of TSG is realized by inhibiting KDM5A. Conclusions. KDM5A signaling may be involved in the regulation of osteogenic differentiation of rBMSCs. TSG can promote osteogenic differentiation and maturation of rBMSCs at 0.1–50 μmol/L. The mechanism of action was realized by inhibiting the expression of KDM5A.

Roles of Altered Macrophages and Cytokines: Implications for Pathological Mechanisms of Postmenopausal Osteoporosis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, and Alzheimer's Disease

Postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMOP) is characterized by the uncoupling of bone resorption and bone formation induced by estrogen deficiency, which is a complex outcome related to estrogen and the immune system. The interaction between bone and immune cells is regarded as the context of PMOP. Macrophages act differently on bone cells, depending on their polarization profile and secreted paracrine factors, which may have implications for the development of PMOP. PMOP, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and Alzheimer's disease (AD) might have pathophysiological links, and the similarity of their pathological mechanisms is partially visible in altered macrophages and cytokines in the immune system. This review focuses on exploring the pathological mechanisms of PMOP, RA, and AD through the roles of altered macrophages and cytokines secretion. First, the multiple effects on cytokines secretion by bone-bone marrow (BM) macrophages in the pathological mechanism of PMOP are reviewed. Then, based on the thought of "different tissue-same cell type-common pathological molecules-disease pathological links-drug targets" and the methodologies of "molecular network" in bioinformatics, highlight that multiple cytokines overlap in the pathological molecules associated with PMOP vs. RA and PMOP vs. AD, and propose that these overlaps may lead to a pathological synergy in PMOP, RA, and AD. It provides a novel strategy for understanding the pathogenesis of PMOP and potential drug targets for the treatment of PMOP.

Hirudin promotes proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of HBMSCs via activation of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP)/protein kinase-G (PKG) signaling pathway

Osteoporosis is a public health problem resulting in higher susceptibility to bone fracture. Hirudin is known as a direct thrombin inhibitor, which is isolated from the salivary gland of the medicinal leech. This present study aimed to evaluate the effect of Hirudin on the proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (HBMSCs). In our study, the effect of Hirudin on the proliferation of HBMSCs was evaluated with the CCK-8 and MTT assays. The capacity of osteogenic differentiation and mineralization of HBMSCs were evaluated with ALP and alizarin red staining, respectively. cGMP content was determined by ELISA. Western blotting and qRT-PCR were used to investigate the effect of Hirudin on the expression of osteoblast-specific markers, including Runx2, osterix (OSX), osteocalcin (OCN), collagen1 (Col1). In our study, Hirudin treatment promoted cell viability. Moreover, Hirudin treatment increased ALP activity of HBMSCs and red coloration of alizarin. Interestingly, cGMP inhibitor partly reversed the effect of Hirudin on the proliferation, differentiation and mineralization of HBMSCs. In conclusion, Hirudin promoted the proliferation, differentiation and mineralization of HBMSCs via activation of cGMP signaling pathway. Hence, Hirudin contributed to bone remodeling and might represent as an effective agent for the treatment of osteoporosis.

Tetramethylpyrazine induces the release of BDNF from BM-MSCs through activation of the PI3K/AKT/CREB pathway

Compelling evidences suggest that transplantation of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) can be therapeutically effective for central nervous system (CNS) injuries and neurodegenerative diseases. The therapeutic effect of BM-MSCs mainly attributes to their differentiation into neuron-like cells which replace injured and degenerative neurons. Importantly, the neurotrophic factors released from BM-MSCs can also rescue injured and degenerative neurons, which plays a biologically pivotal role in enhancing neuroregeneration and neurological functional recovery. Tetramethylpyrazine (TMP), the main bioactive ingredient extracted from the traditional Chinese medicinal herb Chuanxiong, has been reported to promote the neuronal differentiation of BM-MSCs. This study aimed to investigate whether TMP regulates the release of neurotrophic factors from BM-MSCs. We examined the effect of TMP on brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) released from BM-MSCs and elucidated the underlying molecular mechanism. Our results demonstrated that TMP at concentrations of lower than 200 μM increased the release of BDNF in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, the effect of TMP on increasing the release of BDNF from BM-MSCs was blocked by inhibiting the phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT)/cAMP-response element binding protein (CREB) pathway. Therefore, we concluded that TMP could induce the release of BDNF from BM-MSCs through activation of the PI3K/AKT/CREB pathway, leading to the formation of neuroprotective and proneurogenic microenvironment. These findings suggest that TMP possesses novel therapeutic potential to promote neuroprotection and neurogenesis through improving the neurotrophic ability of BM-MSCs, which provides a promising nutritional prevention and treatment strategy for CNS injuries and neurodegenerative diseases via the transplantation of TMP-treated BM-MSCs.

Shikonin induces odontoblastic differentiation of dental pulp stem cells via AKT-mTOR signaling in the presence of CD44

Purpose: In our previous study, we demonstrated that hyaluronan induces odontoblastic differentiation of dental pulp stem cells via interactions with CD44. However, it remains unclear whether CD44 expression by dental pulp stem cells is required for odontoblastic differentiation.Methods: We searched for a compound other than hyaluronan that induces odontoblastic differentiation of dental pulp stem cells and used western blotting to determine whether CD44 is involved in the induction of odontoblastic differentiation by the compound. We further validated the cell signaling details of the compound-induced expression of dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP), which is known as a marker of odontoblastic differentiation.Results: We investigated shikonin, which is one of the derivatives of naphthoquinone, the skeleton of vitamin K. Shikonin-induced expression of DSPP was inhibited by PI3K, AKT, and mTOR inhibitors. Additionally, shikonin-induced expression of DSPP was inhibited in dental pulp stem cells transfected with siRNA against CD44.Conclusions: Shikonin can stimulate dental pulp stem cells to undergo odontoblastic differentiation through a mechanism involving the AKT-mTOR signaling pathway and CD44. Although expression of CD44 is important for inducing odontoblastic differentiation of dental pulp stem cells, the relationship between the AKT-mTOR signaling pathway and CD44 expression, in the context of shikonin stimulation, has not yet been elucidated. This study suggests that shikonin may be useful for inducing odontoblastic differentiation of dental pulp stem cells, and that it may have clinical applications, including protection of the dental pulp.

Hormesis and adult adipose-derived stem cells

This paper provides a detailed assessment of the occurrence of hormetic dose responses in adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) of animal models and humans. While a broad range of endpoints has been considered, the predominant research focus in the literature has involved cell proliferation and differentiation. Hormetic dose responses have been commonly reported for ADSCs, encompassing a broad range of chemicals, including pharmaceuticals, dietary supplements and endogenous agents as well as a broad range of physical stressors such as low frequency vibrations, electromagnetic frequency (EMF), heat and sound waves. Numerous agents upregulate key functions such as cell proliferation and differentiation in ADSCs, following the quantitative features of the hormesis dose response model. The paper also assesses the capacity of agents to selectively and dose-dependently activate cell proliferation and/or differentiation, their underlying mechanistic foundations and potential clinical implications. These findings indicate that hormetic dose responses are a prominent feature of ADSC biology and may have a determinant role in their potential clinical applications.

Serum Pharmacochemistry Analysis Combined with Network Pharmacology Approach to Investigate the Antiosteoporosis Effect of Xianlinggubao Capsule in vivo

Xianlinggubao capsule (XLGB) is a traditional Chinese medicine multi-component herbal prescription and has been widely used in osteoporosis (OP) treatment. However, the underlying anti-OP mechanisms of XLGB have not been fully studied. In this study, an ovariectomized rat model of OP was established. The OP rats were orally administrated with XLGB, and then the main absorbed components in serum sample were assessed based on liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Subsequently, the potential anti-OP markers in XLGB were screened based on a network pharmacology strategy. Molecular docking analysis was used for confirmation. LC-MS showed 22 absorbed components in the serum sample of OP rat with XLGB treatment. Network pharmacology and pathway analysis suggested 19 potential anti-OP markers in XLGB. According to molecular docking process, most of the potential markers displayed strong interactions with the 22 absorbed components mentioned above. Besides, an absorbed component–potential marker–pathway network was further established. In conclusion, our data suggested the possible mechanisms for XLGB in OP treatment, in which the “multicomponents, multitargets, and multipathways” participated. Our article provided possible direction for drug discovery in OP and could help for exploring novel application of XLGB in clinical setting.

Targeted nanomedicines for the treatment of bone disease and regeneration

Targeted delivery by either passive or active targeting of therapeutics to the bone is an attractive treatment for various bone related diseases such as osteoporosis, osteosarcoma, multiple myeloma, and metastatic bone tumors. Engineering novel drug delivery carriers can increase therapeutic efficacy and minimize the risk of side effects. Developmnet of nanocarrier delivery systems is an interesting field of ongoing studies with opportunities to provide more effective therapies. In addition, preclinical nanomedicine research can open new opportunities for preclinical bone-targeted drug delivery; nevertheless, further research is needed to progress these therapies towards clinical applications. In the present review, the latest advancements in targeting moieties and nanocarrier drug delivery systems for the treatment of bone diseases are summarized. We also review the regeneration capability and effective delivery of nanomedicines for orthopedic applications.

FN1 promotes chondrocyte differentiation and collagen production via TGF-β/PI3K/Akt pathway in mice with femoral fracture

Fibronectin (FN) functions as a potent stimulator of osteogenic differentiation, and bone fracture healing. In FN family, FN1 acts as an interactive protein gene product to mediate chondrocyte adhesion. However, its effect on fracture healing remains elusive. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the involvement of FN1 in fracture healing. Hard callus formations were found at fracture site with thicker periosteum in lateral cortical bone area outside the fracture site in model mice. The decreased number of osteogenic cells in the middle of the callus region and increased extracellular matrix were suggestive of successful induction. Immunoblotting and RT-qPCR revealed that expression of FN1 was increased in tissues of fracture mice. As displayed by Safranin-fast green staining hematoxylin-eosin staining, the overexpression of FN1 at fracture site promoted osteoid formation and chondrocyte differentiation. The stimulating role of FN1 in collagen production was evidenced by increased levels of Col2, Col1, ColX, Osteonectin, and Osteocalcin and enhanced BMD, BV, BV/TV and Tb.Th values verified by immunoblotting and immunohistochemical staining. Additionally, the upregulation of FN1 contributed to promoted TGF-β, c-Caspase-9/t-Caspase-9 ratio and NF-κB p65 protein expression as well as lowered p-PI3K/PI3K and p-AKT/AKT ratios, implying the positive correlation between FN1 and the TGF-β/PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. The key findings of the present study provided evidence indicating that overexpression of FN1 contributes to fracture healing by activation of the TGF-β/PI3K/Akt signaling pathway.

Icariin alleviates rheumatoid arthritis via regulating miR-223-3p/NLRP3 signalling axis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is considered to be a chronic autoimmune disease, pathogenesis of RA is complex and effective treatments for RA is still lacking. Previous studies found that microRNAs (miRNAs) play important roles in the pathogenesis of RA, and miR-223-3p is considered to be one of the possible biomarkers of RA. Recent studies have revealed that icariin alleviates RA in murine models, but the underlying mechanism needs to be further investigated. MiR-223-3p expression levels in fibroblast-like synoviocyte (RA-FLS) and patients with RA were quantified by qRT-PCR, cell proliferation was analyzed by CCK-8 and BrdU assay. Cell apoptosis was assessed by flow cytometry and western blotting. TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 concentrations were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Dual luminescence-based reporter gene assay was conducted to confirm the possible interaction between miR-223-3p and NLRP3. Icariin inhibits proliferation and inflammation cytokines secretion, promotes apoptosis of RA-FLS cells and upregulated the expression of miR-223-3p. MiR-223-3p targets to 3'-UTR of NRLP3 and regulates its expression. MiR-223-3p inhibitor reversed the effect of icariin on RA-FLS cells function. Additionally, anti-RA activity of icariin was restored by NLRP3 inhibitor MCC950 in miR-223-3p knockdown RA-FLS cells. Icariin inhibits proliferation and inflammation, promotes apoptosis of RA-FLS cells by regulating miR-223-3p/NLRP3 signalling, which may serve as a potential therapeutic target to alleviate RA.

Osteocyte apoptosis: the roles and key molecular mechanisms in resorption-related bone diseases

Vital osteocytes have been well known to function as an important orchestrator in the preservation of robustness and fidelity of the bone remodeling process. Nevertheless, some key pathological factors, such as sex steroid deficiency and excess glucocorticoids, and so on, are implicated in inducing a bulk of apoptotic osteocytes, subsequently resulting in resorption-related bone loss. As much, osteocyte apoptosis, under homeostatic conditions, is in an optimal state of balance tightly controlled by pro- and anti-apoptotic mechanism pathways. Importantly, there exist many essential signaling proteins in the process of osteocyte apoptosis, which has a crucial role in maintaining a homeostatic environment. While increasing in vitro and in vivo studies have established, in part, key signaling pathways and cross-talk mechanism on osteocyte apoptosis, intrinsic and complex mechanism underlying osteocyte apoptosis occurs in various states of pathologies remains ill-defined. In this review, we discuss not only essential pro- and anti-apoptotic signaling pathways and key biomarkers involved in these key mechanisms under different pathological agents, but also the pivotal role of apoptotic osteocytes in osteoclastogenesis-triggered bone loss, hopefully shedding new light on the attractive and proper actions of pharmacotherapeutics of targeting apoptosis and ensuing resorption-related bone diseases such as osteoporosis and fragility fractures.

Effect of Active Ingredients of Chinese Herbal Medicine on the Rejuvenation of Healthy Aging: Focus on Stem Cells

Stem cells (SCs) are special types of cells with the ability of self-renewal and multidirectional differentiation. As the organism ages, the ability to maintain homeostasis and regeneration deteriorates and the number and activity of stem cells decline. Theoretically, the restoration of stem cells might reverse aging. However, due to their own aging, donor-derived immune rejection, and difficulties in stem cell differentiation control, a series of problems need to be solved to realize the potential for clinical application of stem cells. Chinese herbal medicine is a nature drug library which is suitable for the long-term treatment of aging-related diseases. Modern pharmacological studies have revealed that many active ingredients of Chinese herbal medicines with the effect of promoting stem cells growth and differentiation mainly belong to “reinforcing herbs.” In recent years, exploration of natural active ingredients from Chinese herbal medicines for delaying aging, improving the stem cell microenvironment, and promoting the proliferation and differentiation of endogenous stem cells has attracted substantial attention. This article will focus on active ingredients from Chinese herbs-mediated differentiation of stem cells into particular cell type, like neural cells, endothelial cells, cardiomyocytes, and osteoblasts. We will also discuss the effects of these small molecules on Wnt, Sonic Hedgehog, Notch, eNOS-cGMP, and MAP kinase signal transduction pathways, as well as reveal the role of estrogen receptor α and PPAR γ on selectively promoting or inhibiting stem cells differentiation. This review will provide new insights into the health aging strategies of active ingredients in Chinese herbal medicine in regenerative medicine.

Alterations in DNA methylation profiles in cancellous bone of postmenopausal women with osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is characterized by systemic microarchitecture impairment and bone loss, which ultimately lead to fragility fractures. This disease is most common in older people, especially in postmenopausal women. Cancellous bone is affected by osteoporosis earlier than cortical bone, and DNA methylation microarray analysis of the hip cancellous bone of patients with osteoarthritis revealed differential methylation. In view of the important role of cancellous bone in bone development, we examined genome‐wide DNA methylation profiles in the cancellous bone from patients with postmenopausal osteoporosis versus healthy postmenopausal women using Illumina 850K methylation microarray analysis. Under a threshold of P < 0.05, we obtained a total of 8973 differentially methylated genes, such as SOX6, ACE, SYK and TGFB3. Under a threshold of P < 0.05 and |△β| > 0.2, a total of 17 and 34 key differentially methylated genes were further identified at the promoter region and cytosine‐ phosphate‐ guanine (CpG) islands (such as PRKCZ, GNA11 and COL4A1), respectively. PLEKHA2, PLEKHB1, PNPLA7, SCD, MGST3 and TSNAX were the most common differentially methylated genes at both the promoter region and CpG islands. Five important signaling pathways, including the calcium signaling pathway, the cyclic guanosine phospho‐protein kinase G (cGMP‐PKG) signaling pathway, endocytosis, the Rap1 signaling pathway and the AMPK signaling pathway were identified. Our study may be suitable as a basis for exploring the mechanisms underlying osteoporosis in postmenopausal women.

Upregulation of cGMP-dependent Protein Kinase (PRKG1) in the Development of Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis

Objective

To explore the molecular regulatory mechanisms underlying fibroblast differentiation and dysfunction in the development of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) in an effort to identify candidate therapeutic targets for AIS.

Methods

The GSE110359 dataset, obtained from the bone marrow stromal cells of 12 AIS patients and five healthy controls, was retrieved from the GEO database. The data were preprocessed and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified. KEGG pathway and Gene Ontology (GO)‐Biological Process (BP) enrichment analyses were performed to identify the function of the DEGs. A protein–protein interaction (PPI) and a microRNA‐transcription factor (TF)‐target co‐regulatory network were constructed to identify hub genes in the development of AIS. In addition, hub DEGs were evaluated by quantitative PCR (qPCR) and immunohistochemical staining.

Results

A total of 188 DEGs including 100 up‐regulated and 88 down‐regulated genes were obtained. The up‐regulated DEGs were related to “p53 signaling pathway”, “FoxO signaling pathway”, and “cGMP‐PKG signaling pathway” terms, while the down‐regulated DEGs were significantly enriched in seven terms including “protein processing in endoplasmic reticulum”. The key up‐regulated genes, PRKG1, CCNG2, and KAT2B, and the key down‐regulated genes, MAP2K1 and DUSP6, were identified by the PPI and miRNA‐TF‐Target regulatory network analyses. mRNA expression patterns for PRKG1, DUSP6, and KAT2B were successfully verified by qPCR. In addition, PRKG1 protein levels were found to be elevated during the immunohistochemical analysis.

Conclusion

Increased expression of PRKG1 in AIS patients might be an attractive therapeutic target for AIS. However, further gain or loss‐of‐function studies should be conducted.

Investigating the In Vitro Osteogenic Properties of the Inclusion Nanocarrier of Icariin with Beta-Cyclodextrin-Alginate

In this study, we created an inclusion nanocarrier of icariin (ICA) and β-cyclodextrin-alginate conjugate (ICA/β-CD-ALG) and determined its in vitro osteogenic ability on MC3T3-E1 cells. The morphological shape of the prepared β-CD-ALG with or without ICA was nano-sized and round. The use of β-CD-ALG achieved a sustained ICA release for up to 7 days. In vitro studies found that ICA/β-CD-ALG had a greater potential in osteogenesis on MC3T3-E1 cells compared to β-CD-ALG by exhibiting both higher alkaline phosphatase levels and the amount of calcium deposits. Moreover, ICA/β-CD-ALG greatly increased the levels of osteogenesis markers including osteocalcin (OCN) and osteopontin (OPN). Our results suggest that ICA/β-CD-ALG plays a significant role in cellular osteogenic activity.

Small molecules for mesenchymal stem cell fate determination

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are adult stem cells harboring self-renewal and multilineage differentiation potential that are capable of differentiating into osteoblasts, adipocytes, or chondrocytes in vitro, and regulating the bone marrow microenvironment and adipose tissue remodeling in vivo. The process of fate determination is initiated by signaling molecules that drive MSCs into a specific lineage. Impairment of MSC fate determination leads to different bone and adipose tissue-related diseases, including aging, osteoporosis, and insulin resistance. Much progress has been made in recent years in discovering small molecules and their underlying mechanisms control the cell fate of MSCs both in vitro and in vivo. In this review, we summarize recent findings in applying small molecules to the trilineage commitment of MSCs, for instance, genistein, medicarpin, and icariin for the osteogenic cell fate commitment; isorhamnetin, risedronate, and arctigenin for pro-adipogenesis; and atractylenolides and dihydroartemisinin for chondrogenic fate determination. We highlight the underlying mechanisms, including direct regulation, epigenetic modification, and post-translational modification of signaling molecules in the AMPK, MAPK, Notch, PI3K/AKT, Hedgehog signaling pathways etc. and discuss the small molecules that are currently being studied in clinical trials. The target-based manipulation of lineage-specific commitment by small molecules offers substantial insights into bone marrow microenvironment regulation, adipose tissue homeostasis, and therapeutic strategies for MSC-related diseases.

Icariin Promotes the Osteogenic Action of BMP2 by Activating the cAMP Signaling Pathway

Icariin (ICA) is the main active flavonoid glucoside from herbs of the genus Epimedium; in traditional Chinese medicine, these herbs have long been prescribed for the treatment of bone fractures and osteoporosis. Several studies have shown that treatment with ICA can increase osteogenic differentiation and reduce bone loss in vivo and in vitro. However, the definite signaling pathway of this osteogenic effect remains unclear. In this study, we selected bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2)-induced osteoblastic differentiation of multipotent mesenchymal progenitor C2C12 cells as a model of osteoblast differentiation. We investigated the effects of ICA on C2C12 cells osteogenic differentiation and the underlying molecular mechanisms. We found that ICA could enhance BMP2-mediated osteoblastic differentiation of C2C12 cells in a dose-dependent manner. Treatment with ICA activated the cAMP/PKA/CREB signaling axis in a time-dependent manner. Blocking cAMP signaling using the PKA selective inhibitor H89 significantly inhibited the stimulatory effect of ICA on osteogenesis. Therefore, the osteoinductive potential and the low cost of ICA indicate that it is a promising alternative treatment or promoter for enhancing the therapeutic effects of BMP2.

Icariin protects human nucleus pulposus cells from hydrogen peroxide-induced mitochondria-mediated apoptosis by activating nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is a well-known cause of lower back pain. Icariin has been shown to exert a protective effect on human nucleus pulposus (NP) cells and accordingly has implications for the prevention and treatment of IVDD; however, the molecular mechanisms underlying its action are not fully established. In this study, the mechanisms underlying its protection against hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂)-induced oxidative stress injury were investigated. In vitro, we demonstrated that icariin inhibits H₂O₂-induced mitochondria-mediated apoptosis. It upregulates oxidative stress mediators, i.e., reactive oxygen species, and downregulates mitochondrial membrane potential. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf-2) is a key factor involved in the regulation of the endogenous defense system. It was proved that icariin could activate the Nrf-2 signaling pathway, upregulate the protein expression of nuclear respiratory factor-1 and the mitochondrial transcription factor, promoting mitochondrial biogenesis in human NP cells. An Nrf-2 agonist and inhibitor promoted or partly abolished the protective effects of icariin on mitochondrial homeostasis. Moreover, it was demonstrated that the Nrf-2 signaling pathway could be inhibited by the phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase/AKT pathway. In vivo, icariin ameliorated IVDD in a rat model by promoting Nrf-2 activity, and preserving extracellular matrix in NP cells. These data suggest that icariin could ameliorate IVDD in rat models in vivo. In summary, the protective effects of icariin on human NP cells may suppress the pathogenesis of IVDD via the Nrf-2 signaling pathway. Our findings suggest that the Nrf-2 signaling pathway is a novel therapeutic target for the treatment of IVDD.

Retracted: Icariin attenuates methotrexate chemotherapy-induced bone marrow microvascular damage and bone loss in rats

Methotrexate (MTX), a widely used antimetabolite in paediatric cancer to treatment, has been widely reported to cause bone loss and bone marrow (BM) microvascular (particularly sinusoids) damage. Investigations must now investigate how MTX-induced bone loss and microvasculature damage can be attenuated/prevented. In the present study, we examined the potency of icariin, an herbal flavonoid, in reducing bone loss and the dilation/damage of BM sinusoids in rats caused by MTX treatment. Groups of young rats were treated with five daily MTX injections (0.75 mg/kg) with and without icariin oral supplementation until Day 9 after the first MTX injection. Histological analyses showed a significant reduction in the bone volume/tissue volume (BV/TV) fraction (%) and trabecular number in the metaphysis trabecular bone of MTX-treated rats, but no significant changes in trabecular thickness and trabecular spacing. However, the BV/TV (%) and trabecular number were found to be significantly higher in MTX + icariin-treated rats than those of MTX alone-treated rats. Gene expression analyses showed that icariin treatment maintained expression of osteogenesis-related genes but suppressed the induction of adipogenesis-related genes in bones of MTX-treated rats. In addition, icariin treatment attenuated MTX-induced dilation of BM sinusoids and upregulated expression of endothelial cell marker CD31 in the metaphysis bone of icariin + MTX-treated rats. Furthermore, in vitro studies suggest that icariin treatment can potentially enhance the survival of cultured rat sinusoidal endothelial cells against cytotoxic effect of MTX and promote their migration and tube formation abilities, which is associated with enhanced production of nitric oxide.

Icariin-loaded porous scaffolds for bone regeneration through the regulation of the coupling process of osteogenesis and osteoclastic activity

Objective

Icariin (IC) promotes osteogenic differentiation, and it may be a potential small molecule drug for local application in bone regeneration. Icariin-loaded hydroxyapatite/alginate (IC/HAA) porous composite scaffolds were designed in this study for the potential application of the sustainable release of icariin and subsequent bone regeneration.

Methods

An icariin-loaded hydroxyapatite/alginate porous composite scaffold was prepared and characterized by SEM and HPLC for morphology and release behavior, respectively. The mechanical properties, degradation in PBS and cytotoxicity on BMSCs were also evaluated by MTT assay, compression strength and calculation of weight remaining ratio, respectively. Rabbit BMSCs were cocultured with IC/HAA scaffolds, and ALP activity and Alizarin Red staining were performed to evaluate osteogenic differentiation induction. The mRNA and protein expression level of an osteogenic gene was detected by RT-PCR and Western blotting, respectively. In vivo animal models of critical bone defects in the radius of rabbit were used. Four and 12 weeks after the implantation of IC/HAA scaffolds in the bone defect, radiographic images of the radius were obtained and scored by using the Lane and Sandhu X-ray scoring system. Tissue samples were also evaluated using H&E and Masson staining, and an osteogenic gene and Wnt signaling pathway genes were detected.

Results

A hydroxyapatite/alginate (HAA) porous composite scaffold-loaded icariin was fabricated using a freeze-drying method. Our data indicated that the icariin was loaded in alginate scaffold without compromising the macro/microstructure or mechanical properties of the scaffold. Notably, the IC/HAA promoted the proliferation of rBMSCs without exerting cytotoxicity on rBMSCs. In vivo, rabbit radius bone defect experiments demonstrated that the IC/HAA scaffold exhibited better capacity for bone regeneration than HAA, and IC/HAA upregulated the relative expression levels of an osteogenic gene and the Wnt signaling pathway genes. Most notably, the IC/HAA scaffold also inhibited osteoclast activity in vivo.

Conclusion

Our data suggests a promising application for the use of HAA scaffolds to load icariin and promote bone regeneration in situ through mediation of the coupling processes of osteogenesis induction and osteoclast activity inhibition.

Mechanism of Action of Icariin in Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells

Osteoporosis, femoral head necrosis, and congenital bone defects are orthopedic disorders characterized by reduced bone generation and insufficient bone mass. Bone regenerative therapy primarily relies on the bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) and their ability to differentiate osteogenically. Icariin (ICA) is the active ingredient of Herba epimedii, a common herb used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formulations, and can effectively enhance BMSC proliferation and osteogenesis. However, the underlying mechanism of ICA action in BMSCs is not completely clear. In this review, we provide an overview of the studies on the role and mechanism of action of ICA in BMSCs, to provide greater insights into its potential clinical use in bone regeneration.

PLGA scaffold carrying icariin to inhibit the progression of osteoarthritis in rabbits

Icariin, the main effective component extracted from epimedium, has been shown to stimulate osteogenic differentiation and bone formation and to increase synthesis of the cartilage extracellular matrix. However, there has been little study on the effects of icariin on osteoarthritis. In this study, we loaded icariin onto poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) electrospinning. The aim of this study was to explore a composite scaffold and to inhibit the progression of osteoarthritis. Our main experimental results demonstrated that the PLGA/icariin composite spinning scaffold had higher hydrophilicity, and icariin was released slowly and steadily from the scaffold. According to the results of an MTT test, immunofluorescence staining, an alkaline phosphate activating assay and a real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay, the PLGA/icariin composite scaffold had good biocompatibility. In models of osteoarthritis, the results of a RT-PCR assay indicated that the PLGA/icariin scaffold promoted the synthesis of the extracellular matrix. The results of X-ray microtomography and histological evaluation demonstrated that the PLGA/icariin scaffold maintained the functional morphology of articular cartilage and inhibited the resorption of subchondral bone trabeculae. These findings indicated that the PLGA and icariin composite scaffold has therapeutic potential for use in the treatment of osteoarthritis.

Ep7GT, a glycosyltransferase with sugar donor flexibility from Epimedium pseudowushanense, catalyzes the 7-O-glycosylation of baohuoside

A novel glycosyltransferase from Epimedium pseudowushanense, Ep7GT, regiospecifically catalyzes the 7-O-glucosylation of baohuoside to form icariin and shows sugar donor/acceptor promiscuity to yield different flavonoid glycosides.

Effects of Icariin on Atherosclerosis and Predicted Function Regulatory Network in ApoE Deficient Mice

Objective. Icariin plays a pivotal role in ameliorating atherosclerosis for animal models although its comprehensive biological role remains largely unexplored. This study aimed to fully understand the effects of icariin on atherosclerosis in high-fat diet-induced ApoE^-/- mice and investigate mRNA-miRNA regulation based on microarray and bioinformatics analysis. Methods. The areas of atherosclerotic lesions in en face aorta were evaluated. Microarray analysis was performed on atherosclerotic aortic tissues. The integrative analysis of mRNA and miRNA profiling was utilized to suggest specific functions of gene and supply an integrated and corresponding method to study the protective effect of icariin on atherosclerosis. Results. Icariin attenuated the development of atherosclerosis that the mean atherosclerotic lesion area was reduced by 5.8% (P < 0.05). Significant changes were observed in mRNA and miRNA expression patterns. Several miRNAs obtained from the miRNA-Gene-Network might play paramount part in antiatherosclerotic effect of icariin, such as mmu-miR-6931-5p, mmu-miR-3547-5p, mmu-miR-5107-5p, mmu-miR-6368, and mmu-miR-7118-5p. Specific miRNAs and GO terms associated with icariin in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis were validated using GO analysis and miRNA-GO-Network. MiRNA-Pathway-Network indicated that icariin induced miRNAs mainly regulate the signaling pathways of PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, Ras signaling pathway, ErbB signaling pathway, and VEGF signaling pathway in aorta atherosclerotic lesion. Conclusions. Our data provides evidence that icariin is able to exhibit one antiatherosclerotic action by mediating multiple biological processes or cascades, suggesting the pleiotropic effects of icariin in atherosclerosis alleviation. The identified gene functional categories and pathways are potentially valuable targets for future development of RNA-guided gene regulation to fight disease.

Osteoblast derived-neurotrophin‑3 induces cartilage removal proteases and osteoclast-mediated function at injured growth plate in rats

Faulty bony repair causes dysrepair of injured growth plate cartilage and bone growth defects in children; however, the underlying mechanisms are unclear. Recently, we observed the prominent induction of neurotrophin‑3 (NT-3) and its important roles as an osteogenic and angiogenic factor promoting the bony repair. The current study investigated its roles in regulating injury site remodelling. In a rat tibial growth plate drill-hole injury repair model, NT-3 was expressed prominently in osteoblasts at the injury site. Recombinant NT-3 (rhNT-3) systemic treatment enhanced, but NT-3 immunoneutralization attenuated, expression of cartilage-removal proteases (MMP-9 and MMP-13), presence of bone-resorbing osteoclasts and expression of osteoclast protease cathepsin K, and remodelling at the injury site. NT-3 was also highly induced in cultured mineralizing rat bone marrow stromal cells, and the conditioned medium augmented osteoclast formation and resorptive activity, an ability that was blocked by presence of anti-NT-3 antibody. Moreover, NT-3 and receptor TrkC were induced during osteoclastogenesis, and rhNT-3 treatment activated TrkC downstream kinase Erk1/2 in differentiating osteoclasts although rhNT-3 alone did not affect activation of osteoclastogenic transcription factors NF-κB or NFAT in RAW_264.7 osteoclast precursor cells. Furthermore, rhNT-3 treatment increased, but NT-3 neutralization reduced, expression of osteoclastogenic cytokines (RANKL, TNF-α, and IL-1) in mineralizing osteoblasts and in growth plate injury site, and rhNT-3 augmented the induction of these cytokines caused by RANKL treatment in RAW_264.7 cells. Thus, injury site osteoblast-derived NT-3 is important in promoting growth plate injury site remodelling, as it induces cartilage proteases for cartilage removal and augments osteoclastogenesis and resorption both directly (involving activing Erk1/2 and substantiating RANKL-induced increased expression of osteoclastogenic signals in differentiating osteoclasts) and indirectly (inducing osteoclastogenic signals in osteoblasts).

Differential Expression Profiles of Circular RNAs During Osteogenic Differentiation of Mouse Adipose-Derived Stromal Cells

Osteogenesis is a complex and tightly regulated process. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are covalently closed RNA molecules which are thought to play a significant role in bone metabolism. The purpose of this study was to investigate the expression and putative function of circRNAs during the osteogenic differentiation of mouse adipose-derived stromal cells (mADSCs). circRNA microarrays were used to determine differential circRNAs expression at different stages during osteogenesis of mADSCs. The most frequent differentially expressed circRNAs were selected by Venn analysis and clustered among the three induced groups. In addition, bioinformatic analyses (gene ontology, pathway, and co-expression network analysis) were used to further investigate these differentially expressed circRNAs. A total of 14,236 circRNAs were detected, of which 43 circRNAs (40 upregulated) were consistently altered at indicated time points during osteogenic differentiation of mADSCs. The exonic circRNAs represented a significantly larger proportion among the differentially expressed circRNAs compared to other types of circRNAs. Gene ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes biological pathway analysis were performed to evaluate the functions of differentially expressed circRNAs during the osteogenic process. Our circRNA-miRNA co-expression network showed that miR-338-3p was correlated with upregulation of two circRNAs (mmu_circRNA_013422, mmu_circRNA_22566). Our data on circRNA expression profiles may provide valuable insight into circRNA function during osteogenic differentiation of mADSCs. Additionally, the circRNA-miRNA-mRNA pathways may provide information on novel mechanisms and targets for clinical investigations on bone formation and regeneration.

Effects of water extract from epimedium on neuropeptide signaling in an ovariectomized osteoporosis rat model

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

For the past millennium, water extract from Epimedium (dried leaves of Epimedium brevicornu Maxim.) has been widely used for bone disease therapy in traditional Chinese medicine and has been reported to exhibit salutary effects on osteoporosis in clinical trials. The therapeutic effect of Epimedium is associated with the function of the brain in traditional Chinese medicine theory.

STUDY AIM

To determine the potential relationship between treating osteoporosis with Epimedium and neuropeptide regulation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Water extract from Epimedium was qualitatively and quantitatively analyzed with HPLC-TOF-MS. Ovariectomized rats were used as an osteoporosis model and were treated orally with water extract from Epimedium 16 weeks after surgery to mimic clinical therapy. After treatment, gene expression and protein levels of four neuropeptides, as well as their main receptors or receptor precursors including; neuropeptide Y (NPY) and its receptors NPY 1 (NPYR1) and 2; calcitonin gene-related peptide and its receptor precursor calcitonin receptor-like receptor (CRLR); vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) and its receptor VIP 1 (VIP1R) and 2; and substance P (SP) and its receptor neurokinin 1 receptor (NK1R) were detected in samples taken from bone, brain and spinal cord.

RESULTS

Treatment with water extract from Epimedium prevented bone mineral loss and reduced femoral bone strength decline associated with osteoporosis. Detection of neuropeptides showed that treatment also affected neuropeptide in the brain/spinal cord/bone axis; specifically, treatment increased brain NPY, bone NPY1R, bone CRLR, bone and spinal cord VIP and VIP2R, bone SP, and brain and spinal cord NK1R.

CONCLUSION

The effects of osteoporosis can largely be reduced by treatment with Epimedium most likely through a mechanism associated with several neuropeptides involved in regulation of the brain/spinal cord/bone axis. These novel results contribute to existing literature regarding the possible mechanisms of habitual use of Epimedium in the treatment of osteoporosis.

Flavonoid compound icariin enhances BMP-2 induced differentiation and signalling by targeting to connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) in SAMP6 osteoblasts

BACKGROUND

Icariin, a major active flavonoid glucoside, is widely used for the treatment of bone injury and rebuilding in the clinic because of its roles in suppressing osteoblastogenesis and promoting osteogenesis. The senescence-accelerated mouse SAMP6 was accepted as a useful murine model to reveal the mechanism of senile osteoporosis and the therapeutic mechanism of drug activity. However, little is known about the characteristics of SAMP6 osteoblasts and the associated regulatory roles of icariin.

METHODS

We isolated and cultured osteoblasts from SAMP6 or SAMR1 mice and compared their proliferation, migration, and differentiation by performing the CCK-8 assay, cell counting assay, EdU staining, cell cycle analysis, ALP staining and activity measurement, Alizarin red staining, and RT-qPCR analysis to measure the levels of osteoblast markers, including RUNX2, Colla1 and Oc. To assess the effects of icariin on BMP-2-induced osteoblast differentiation, after BMP-2 treatment, osteoblast markers were analyzed by RT-qPCR and semi-quantitative Western blotting. The effects of icariin on connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) were measured by RT-qPCR. shRNA targeting CTGF mRNA was employed to knockdown its expression level in osteoblasts.

RESULTS

The SAMP6 osteoblasts presented decreased the development and differentiation activity compared with SAMR1 osteoblasts, indicating that they are the potential mechanisms underlying age-associated disease. Moreover, SAMP6 osteoblasts presented upregulated CTGF compared with SAMR1 osteoblasts. Icariin enhanced BMP-2-induced osteoblast differentiation by downregulating CTGF expression, which tightly regulates osteoblast differentiation. By downregulating CTGF, icariin treatment upregulated phosphate-Smad1/5/8, indicating its activating effects on the BMP signaling pathway.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that decreased osteoblast development and function potentially contributes to age-associated disease. Icariin exerts enhancing effects on BMP-2-mediated osteoblast development via downregulating CTGF.

Chinese single herbs and active ingredients for postmenopausal osteoporosis: From preclinical evidence to action mechanism

Postmenopausal osteoporosis is a systemic metabolic skeletal disease generally ascribable to a dearth of estrogen. Whether traditional Chinese medicine is effective in management of postmenopausal osteoporosis remains unclear. This article reviews the experimental evidence of both in vitro and in vivo preclinical studies with the theme of the application of Chinese single herbs and active ingredients in postmenopausal osteoporosis. It includes three single herbs (Herba Epimedium, Rhizoma Drynariae, and Salvia miltiorrhiza) and eight active ingredients (saikosaponins, linarin, echinacoside, sweroside, psoralen, poncirin, vanillic acid, and osthole). The experimental studies indicated their potential use as treatment for postmenopausal osteoporosis and investigated the underlying mechanisms including osteoprotegerin/receptor activator of nuclear factor κB ligand (OPG/RANKL), extracellular-signal-regulated kinase/c-Jun N terminal kinase/mitogen-activated protein kinase (ERK/JNK/MAPK), estrogen receptor (ER), bone morphogenetic protein (BMP), transforming growth factor (TGF)-β, Wnt/β-catenin, and Notch signaling pathways. This review contributes to a better understanding of traditional Chinese medicine and provides useful information for the development of more effective anti-osteoporosis drugs.

STAT-3 regulation of CXCR4 is necessary for the prenylflavonoid Icaritin to enhance mesenchymal stem cell proliferation, migration and osteogenic differentiation

Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) dysfunction has been implicated in the pathogenesis of osteoporosis. MSCs derived from osteoporotic subjects demonstrate significant impairment in proliferation, adhesion and chemotaxis, and osteogenic differentiation, leading to reduced functional bone-forming osteoblasts and ultimately nett bone loss and osteoporosis. Epimedium herbs and its active compound Icaritin (ICT) have been used in Chinese ethnopharmacology for the treatment of metabolic bone diseases. Using an in-vitro cell culture model, we investigated the benefits of ICT treatment in enhancing MSC proliferation, migration and osteogenic differentiation, and provide novel data to describe its mechanism of action. ICT enhances MSC proliferation, chemotaxis to stromal cell-derived factor-1 (SDF-1) and osteogenic differentiation through the activation of signal transduction activator transcription factor 3 (STAT-3), with a consequential up-regulation in the expression and activity of cysteine (C)-X-C motif chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4). These findings provide a strong basis for future clinical studies to confirm the therapeutic potential of ICT for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis and fragility fractures.

Salvinorin A preserves cerebral pial artery autoregulation after forebrain ischemia via the PI3K/AKT/cGMP pathway

This study aimed to investigate the protective effect of salvinorin A on the cerebral pial artery after forebrain ischemia and explore related mechanisms. Thirty Sprague-Dawley rats received forebrain ischemia for 10 min. The dilation responses of the cerebral pial artery to hypercapnia and hypotension were assessed in rats before and 1 h after ischemia. The ischemia reperfusion (IR) control group received DMSO (1 µL/kg) immediately after ischemia. Two different doses of salvinorin A (10 and 20 µg/kg) were administered following the onset of reperfusion. The 5th, 6th, and 7th groups received salvinorin A (20 µg/kg) and LY294002 (10 µM), L-NAME (10 μM), or norbinaltorphimine (norBIN, 1 μM) after ischemia. The levels of cGMP in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) were also measured. The phosphorylation of AKT (p-AKT) was measured in the cerebral cortex by western blot at 24 h post-ischemia. Cell necrosis and apoptosis were examined by hematoxylin-eosin staining (HE) and TUNEL staining, respectively. The motor function of the rats was evaluated at 1, 2, and 5 days post-ischemia. The dilation responses of the cerebral pial artery were significantly impaired after ischemia and were preserved by salvinorin A treatment. In addition, salvinorin A significantly increased the levels of cGMP and p-AKT, suppressed cell necrosis and apoptosis of the cerebral cortex and improved the motor function of the rats. These effects were abolished by LY294002, L-NAME, and norBIN. Salvinorin A preserved cerebral pial artery autoregulation in response to hypercapnia and hypotension via the PI3K/AKT/cGMP pathway.

The effect of icariin on bone metabolism and its potential clinical application

Osteoporosis is a bone disease characterized by reduced bone mass, which leads to increased risk of bone fractures, and poses a significant risk to public health, especially in the elderly population. The traditional Chinese medicinal herb Epimedii has been utilized for centuries to treat bone fracture and bone loss. Icariin is a prenylated flavonol glycoside isolated from Epimedium herb, and has been shown to be the main bioactive component. This review provides a comprehensive survey of previous studies on icariin, including its structure and function, effect on bone metabolism, and potential for clinical application. These studies show that icariin promotes bone formation by stimulating osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs (bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells), while inhibiting osteoclastogenic differentiation and the bone resorption activity of osteoclasts. Furthermore, icariin has been shown to be more potent than other flavonoid compounds in promoting osteogenic differentiation and maturation of osteoblasts. A 24-month randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial reported that icariin was effective in preventing postmenopausal osteoporosis with relatively low side effects. In conclusion, icariin may represent a class of flavonoids with bone-promoting activity, which could be used as potential treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis.