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Fukuyama Y, Kubo M, Harada K. Neurotrophic Natural Products. PROGRESS IN THE CHEMISTRY OF ORGANIC NATURAL PRODUCTS 2024; 123:1-473. [PMID: 38340248 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-42422-9_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Neurotrophins (NGF, BDNF, NT3, NT4) can decrease cell death, induce differentiation, as well as sustain the structure and function of neurons, which make them promising therapeutic agents for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders. However, neurotrophins have not been very effective in clinical trials mostly because they cannot pass through the blood-brain barrier owing to being high-molecular-weight proteins. Thus, neurotrophin-mimic small molecules, which stimulate the synthesis of endogenous neurotrophins or enhance neurotrophic actions, may serve as promising alternatives to neurotrophins. Small-molecular-weight natural products, which have been used in dietary functional foods or in traditional medicines over the course of human history, have a great potential for the development of new therapeutic agents against neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease. In this contribution, a variety of natural products possessing neurotrophic properties such as neurogenesis, neurite outgrowth promotion (neuritogenesis), and neuroprotection are described, and a focus is made on the chemistry and biology of several neurotrophic natural products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshiyasu Fukuyama
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokushima Bunri University, Tokushima, 770-8514, Japan.
| | - Miwa Kubo
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokushima Bunri University, Tokushima, 770-8514, Japan
| | - Kenichi Harada
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokushima Bunri University, Tokushima, 770-8514, Japan
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Ning Z, Zhong X, Wu Y, Wang Y, Hu D, Wang K, Deng M. β-asarone improves cognitive impairment and alleviates autophagy in mice with vascular dementia via the cAMP/PKA/CREB pathway. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 123:155215. [PMID: 38039902 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2023.155215] [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: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 10/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vascular dementia (VD) is the second most common type of dementia after Alzheimer's disease. β-asarone, a major component of Acorus tatarinowii Schott, is important in neurodegenerative and neurovascular diseases. Studies have confirmed that β-asarone can mitigate autophagy and reduce damage in hypoxic cells. We also reported that β-asarone improves learning and memory. This study further clarifies whether β-asarone attenuates cerebral ischaemic injury by acting through the cAMP/PKA/CREB pathway in VD model mice. METHODS Here, genes and potential pathways that may be targeted by β-asarone for the treatment of transient cerebral ischaemia (TCI) and cognitive impairment (CI) were obtained using network pharmacology. The two-vessel occlusion method was used to establish the VD model. The Morris water maze test was used to evaluate the effects on memory. Then, the protein levels of mitofusin-2 (Mfn2), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), optic atrophy 1 (OPA1), cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), myelin basic protein (MBP), matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP9) and neuron specific enolase (NSE) were determined by ELISA. The levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malonaldehyde (MDA) were measured using commercial kits. Then, qRT-PCR was employed to investigate the expression of the candidate genes screened from the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network. Furthermore, the expression of the autophagy-related proteins Beclin-1, (microtubule-associated protein light chain 3) LC3, p62, postsynaptic density protein 95 (PSD95), protein kinase A (PKA), pPKA, cyclic-AMP response binding protein (CREB), and pCREB was determined by western blotting. The expression of autophagy-related proteins, PSD95 and translocase of outer mitochondrial membrane 20 (TOM20) was determined by immunofluorescence analyses. RESULTS The network pharmacological analysis showed 234 targets related to β-asarone, 1,118 genes related to TCI and 2,039 genes associated with CI. Our results confirm that β-asarone treatment not only alleviated brain damage in the VD model by improving mitochondrial and synaptic function, reducing neuronal injury and upregulating the expression of antioxidants but also effectively improved the cognitive behaviour of VD model mice. Moreover, β-asarone downregulated VD-induced RELA and CCND1 mRNA expression. In addition, we validated that β-asarone increased the phosphorylation of PKA and CREB and upregulated cAMP protein expression. The results showed that the cAMP/PKA/CREB signalling pathway was upregulated. Moreover, β-asarone administration decreased the protein expression levels of Beclin-1 and LC3 and increased the expression levels of p62 in VD model mice. CONCLUSIONS β-asarone inhibits Beclin-1-dependent autophagy and upregulates the cAMP/PKA/CREB signalling pathway to attenuate mitochondrial and synaptic damage from cerebral ischaemia and improve learning and cognitive abilities in VD model mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenqiu Ning
- State Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome/ Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510006, China; The Second Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510120, China
| | - Xiaoqin Zhong
- The First Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510405, China
| | - Yanan Wu
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Yu Wang
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510120, China
| | - Dafeng Hu
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510120, China
| | - Kai Wang
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510120, China
| | - Minzhen Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome/ Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510006, China; The Second Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510120, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Research on Emergency in TCM, Guangzhou 510120, PR China.
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Yuan Y, Liu Y, Hao L, Ma J, Shao S, Yu Z, Shi M, Zhang Z, Zhang Z. The neuroprotective effects of Liuwei Dihuang medicine in the APP/PS1 mouse model are dependent on the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1188893. [PMID: 37920210 PMCID: PMC10619154 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1188893] [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: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is an age-related neurodegenerative disease that progressively impairs cognitive function and memory. The occurrence and development of Alzheimer's disease involves many processes. In response to the complex pathogenesis of AD, the Traditional Chinese medicine formula Liuwei Dihuang Pill (LWD) has been shown to improve the cognitive function of AD animal models. However, the active ingredients and mechanism of action of LWD have not been fully elucidated. In this study, network pharmacological analysis predicted 40 candidate compounds in LWD, acting on 227 potential targets, of which 185 were associated with AD. Through network pharmacological analysis, the mechanism of action of LWD therapy AD is related to the inhibition of inflammatory response, regulation of neuronal state, and autophagy. In this experiment, LWD was detected in the APP/PS1 transgenic mouse model. The objective was to observe the effects of LWD on hippocampal learning and memory ability, Aβ clearance, autophagy and inflammatory response in APP/PS1 mice. The results showed that LWD improved long-term memory and working memory in APP/PS1 mice compared with the WT group. At the same time, LWD can increase the expression of hippocampal autophagy biomarkers, reduce the precipitation of Aβ, and the activation of microglia and astrocytes. Its mechanism may be related to the regulation of the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. Thus, we demonstrate for the first time that LWD has a neuroprotective effect on APP/PS1 mice and provide theoretical foundation for the development of a new clinical treatment for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye Yuan
- Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Yamei Liu
- Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Li Hao
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Jinlian Ma
- Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Simai Shao
- Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Ziyang Yu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Ming Shi
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Zhenqiang Zhang
- Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Zijuan Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
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Kan B, Dong Z, Tang Z, Zhao L, Li Z. Acupuncture Improves Synaptic Plasticity of SAMP8 Mice through the RhoA/ROCK Pathway. Curr Alzheimer Res 2023; 20:420-430. [PMID: 37723951 DOI: 10.2174/1567205020666230828095826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies have found synaptic plasticity damage to be an early marker of Alzheimer's disease (AD). RhoA/ROCK pathway is involved in the regulation of synaptic plasticity. Acupuncture can significantly improve the cognitive state of AD. OBJECTIVE We aimed to use modern biological technology to detect the changes in synaptic plasticity and RhoA/ROCK pathway in SAMP8 mice, as well as the intervention effect of acupuncture. METHODS Morris water maze and electrophysiological techniques were used in vivo to detect the changes in spatial memory and LTP of mice. Golgi Cox staining and CASEVIEWER2.1 software were used to quantitatively analyze the changes in the morphology and number of dendritic spines in the hippocampus of mice. The activity of RhoA and ROCK2 in the hippocampus of mice was detected, respectively, by pull-down technique and ELISA. WB technique was used to detect the protein expression of ROCK2 and phosphorylation level of MLC2, LIMK2, and CRMP2 in the hippocampus of mice. RESULTS The neurobehavior and synaptic plasticity of 8-month-old SAMP8 mice were found to be significantly impaired. Acupuncture could improve the spatial learning and memory ability of SAMP8 mice, and partially prevent the reduction in the number of spines on the secondary branches of the apical dendrites in the hippocampus and the attenuation of LTP. The RhoA/ROCK pathway was significantly activated in the hippocampus of 8-month-old SAMP8 mice, and acupuncture had an inhibitory effect on it. CONCLUSION Acupuncture can improve synaptic plasticity by inhibiting the abnormal activation of the RhoA/ROCK pathway, and improve the spatial learning and memory ability of AD, so as to achieve the purpose of treating AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bohong Kan
- First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhengjia Dong
- First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhenyu Tang
- First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Lan Zhao
- First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhen Li
- First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
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Kim CJ, Kwak TY, Bae MH, Shin HK, Choi BT. Therapeutic Potential of Active Components from Acorus gramineus and Acorus tatarinowii in Neurological Disorders and Their Application in Korean Medicine. J Pharmacopuncture 2022; 25:326-343. [PMID: 36628348 PMCID: PMC9806153 DOI: 10.3831/kpi.2022.25.4.326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurological disorders represent a substantial healthcare burden worldwide due to population aging. Acorus gramineus Solander (AG) and Acorus tatarinowii Schott (AT), whose major component is asarone, have been shown to be effective in neurological disorders. This review summarized current information from preclinical and clinical studies regarding the effects of extracts and active components of AG and AT (e.g., α-asarone and β-asarone) on neurological disorders and biomedical targets, as well as the mechanisms involved. Databases, including PubMed, Embase, and RISS, were searched using the following keywords: asarone, AG, AT, and neurological disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, depression and anxiety, epilepsy, and stroke. Meta-analyses and reviews were excluded. A total of 873 studies were collected. A total of 89 studies were selected after eliminating studies that did not meet the inclusion criteria. Research on neurological disorders widely reported that extracts or active components of AG and AT showed therapeutic efficacy in treating neurological disorders. These components also possessed a wide array of neuroprotective effects, including reduction of pathogenic protein aggregates, antiapoptotic activity, modulation of autophagy, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, regulation of neurotransmitters, activation of neurogenesis, and stimulation of neurotrophic factors. Most of the included studies were preclinical studies that used in vitro and in vivo models, and only a few clinical studies have been performed. Therefore, this review summarizes the current knowledge on AG and AT therapeutic effects as a basis for further clinical studies, and clinical trials are required before these findings can be applied to human neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheol Ju Kim
- Department of Korean Medicine, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae Young Kwak
- Department of Korean Medicine, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Hyeok Bae
- Department of Korean Medicine, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Hwa Kyoung Shin
- Department of Korean Medicine, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Republic of Korea,Graduate Training Program of Korean Medical Therapeutics for Healthy Aging, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Republic of Korea,Corresponding Author Hwa Kyoung Shin, Department of Korean Medicine, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, 49 Busandaehak-ro, Mulgeum-eup, Yangsan 50612, Republic of Korea, Tel: +82-51-510-8476, E-mail:, Byung Tae Choi, Department of Korean Medicine, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, 49 Busandaehak-ro, Mulgeum-eup, Yangsan 50612, Republic of Korea, Tel: +82-51-510-8475, E-mail:
| | - Byung Tae Choi
- Department of Korean Medicine, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Republic of Korea,Graduate Training Program of Korean Medical Therapeutics for Healthy Aging, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Republic of Korea,Corresponding Author Hwa Kyoung Shin, Department of Korean Medicine, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, 49 Busandaehak-ro, Mulgeum-eup, Yangsan 50612, Republic of Korea, Tel: +82-51-510-8476, E-mail:, Byung Tae Choi, Department of Korean Medicine, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, 49 Busandaehak-ro, Mulgeum-eup, Yangsan 50612, Republic of Korea, Tel: +82-51-510-8475, E-mail:
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Ma Q, Zhou J, Yang Z, Xue Y, Xie X, Li T, Yang Y. Mingmu Xiaoyao granules regulate the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway to reduce anxiety and depression and reverse retinal abnormalities in rats. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1003614. [PMID: 36278192 PMCID: PMC9579374 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1003614] [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: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: To investigate the effects of Mingmu Xiaoyao granules (MMXY) on the morphology and function of the retina and the mechanism of PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway-related proteins in rats with anxiety and depression induced by chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS). Methods: Fifty-two male Sprague Dawley rats were randomly allocated to either a control (n = 14) or a simulated CUMS group (n = 38). The CUMS model was established successfully at 4 weeks. Six rats in each group were randomly selected to be sacrificed and their retinas isolated for histological examination. At 5 weeks, rats in the CUMS group were randomly allocated to the following groups: Model (CUMS + pure water), MMXY-H (CUMS + MMXY 7.2 g/kg/d), MMXY-L (CUMS + MMXY 3.6 g/kg/d), and CBZ (CUMS + Carbamazepine 20 mg/kg/d), with eight rats in each group. All rats were given the relevant intervention once a day. At 12 weeks, sucrose preference and open field tests were performed to evaluate the anxiety and depression status of rats. In live rats, optical coherence tomography angiography was used to measure retinal thickness and blood flow, while electroretinograms (ERGs) and visual evoked potentials (VEPs) were used to evaluate retinal function. The next day, the specimens were sacrificed for serological, histological, immunofluorescence, Western blot and transmission electron microscopy examinations to explore the mechanism of MMXY in CUMS rats. Results: MMXY improved the anxiety and depression-like behavior of rats. Results of optical coherence tomography angiography showed that MMXY improved retinal inner thickness and blood flow in CUMS rats. MMXY improved the amplitude of a- and b-waves in the scotopic and photopic ERG, as well as N2 and P2 peak time and amplitude in the flash-VEP in CUMS rats. Retinal histological staining and transmission electron microscopy showed that MMXY reversed retinal morphology and ultrastructure in CUMS rats. MMXY reduced the expression of Beclin1 and LC3I/II proteins, regulated the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway, inhibited autophagy, and had a protective effect on the retina in CUMS rats. Conclusion: MMXY may effectively improve retinal morphology and function as well as anxiety and depression-like behaviors in CUMS rats by regulating the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiuyan Ma
- Graduate School, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Ophthalmology Department, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jian Zhou
- Ophthalmology Department, Dongfang Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Ziyi Yang
- Graduate School, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yuxin Xue
- Graduate School, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xinran Xie
- Ophthalmology Department, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Tiejun Li
- Ophthalmology Department, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yingxin Yang
- Ophthalmology Department, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Yingxin Yang,
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Zhao DP, Lei X, Wang YY, Xue A, Zhao CY, Xu YM, Zhang Y, Liu GL, Geng F, Xu HD, Zhang N. Sagacious confucius’ pillow elixir ameliorates Dgalactose induced cognitive injury in mice via estrogenic effects and synaptic plasticity. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:971385. [PMID: 36249769 PMCID: PMC9555387 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.971385] [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: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a growing concern in modern society, and there is currently a lack of effective therapeutic drugs. Sagacious Confucius’ Pillow Elixir (SCPE) has been studied for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases such as AD. This study aimed to reveal the key components and mechanisms of SCPE’s anti-AD effect by combining Ultra-high Performance Liquid Chromatography-electrostatic field Orbitrap combined high-resolution Mass Spectrometry (UPLC-LTQ/Orbitrap-MS) with a network pharmacology approach. And the mechanism was verified by in vivo experiments. Based on UPLC-LTQ/Orbitrap-MS technique identified 9 blood components from rat serum containing SCPE, corresponding to 113 anti-AD targets, and 15 of the 113 targets had high connectivity. KEGG pathway enrichment analysis showed that estrogen signaling pathway and synaptic signaling pathway were the most significantly enriched pathways in SCPE anti-AD, which has been proved by in vivo experiments. SCPE can exert estrogenic effects in the brain by increasing the amount of estrogen in the brain and the expression of ERα receptors. SCPE can enhance the synaptic structure plasticity by promoting the release of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) secretion and improving actin polymerization and coordinates cofilin activity. In addition, SCPE also enhances synaptic functional plasticity by increasing the density of postsynaptic densified 95 (PSD95) proteins and the expression of functional receptor AMPA. SCPE is effective for treatment of AD and the mechanism is related to increasing estrogenic effects and improving synaptic plasticity. Our study revealed the synergistic effect of SCPE at the system level and showed that SCPE exhibits anti-AD effects in a multi-component, multi-target and multi-pathway manner. All these provide experimental support for the clinical application and drug development of SCPE in the prevention and treatment of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- De-Ping Zhao
- College of Pharmacy, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Xia Lei
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuxi Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Jiangsu, Wuxi, China
| | - Yue-Ying Wang
- College of Pharmacy, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Ao Xue
- College of Pharmacy, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Chen-Yu Zhao
- College of Pharmacy, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Yan-Ming Xu
- College of Jiamusi, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Jiamusi, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Yue Zhang
- College of Pharmacy, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Guo-Liang Liu
- College of Jiamusi, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Jiamusi, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Fang Geng
- Key Laboratory of Photochemistry Biomaterials and Energy Storage Materials of Heilongjiang Province, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Normal University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
- *Correspondence: Fang Geng, ; Hong-Dan Xu, ; Ning Zhang,
| | - Hong-Dan Xu
- College of Jiamusi, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Jiamusi, Heilongjiang, China
- College of Pharmacy, Wuxi Higher Health Vocational Technology School, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
- *Correspondence: Fang Geng, ; Hong-Dan Xu, ; Ning Zhang,
| | - Ning Zhang
- College of Pharmacy, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
- College of Jiamusi, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Jiamusi, Heilongjiang, China
- *Correspondence: Fang Geng, ; Hong-Dan Xu, ; Ning Zhang,
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Implications of Phosphoinositide 3-Kinase-Akt (PI3K-Akt) Pathway in the Pathogenesis of Alzheimer's Disease. Mol Neurobiol 2021; 59:354-385. [PMID: 34699027 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-021-02611-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the foremost type of dementia that afflicts considerable morbidity and mortality in aged population. Several transcription molecules, pathways, and molecular mechanisms such as oxidative stress, inflammation, autophagy, and immune system interact in a multifaceted way that disrupt physiological processes (cell growth, differentiation, survival, lipid and energy metabolism, endocytosis) leading to apoptosis, tauopathy, β-amyloidopathy, neuron, and synapse loss, which play an important role in AD pathophysiology. Despite of stupendous advancements in pathogenic mechanisms, treatment of AD is still a nightmare in the field of medicine. There is compelling urgency to find not only symptomatic but effective disease-modifying therapies. Recently, phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) and Akt are identified as a pathway triggered by diverse stimuli, including insulin, growth factors, cytokines, and cellular stress, that link amyloid-β, neurofibrillary tangles, and brain atrophy. The present review aims to explore and analyze the role of PI3K-Akt pathway in AD and agents which may modulate Akt and have therapeutic prospects in AD. The literature was researched using keywords "PI3K-Akt" and "Alzheimer's disease" from PubMed, Web of Science, Bentham, Science Direct, Springer Nature, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases including books. Articles published from 1992 to 2021 were prioritized and analyzed for their strengths and limitations, and most appropriate ones were selected for the purpose of review. PI3K-Akt pathway regulates various biological processes such as cell proliferation, motility, growth, survival, and metabolic functions, and inhibits many neurotoxic mechanisms. Furthermore, experimental data indicate that PI3K-Akt signaling might be an important therapeutic target in treatment of AD.
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Extracts or Active Components from Acorus gramineus Aiton for Cognitive Function Impairment: Preclinical Evidence and Possible Mechanisms. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2020; 2020:6752876. [PMID: 32908635 PMCID: PMC7468674 DOI: 10.1155/2020/6752876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Revised: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Extracts or active components from Acorus gramineus Aiton (EAAGA) have been clinically used for cognition impairment more than hundreds of years and are still used in modern times in China and elsewhere worldwide. Previous studies reported that EAAGA improves cognition impairment in animal models. Here, we conducted a preclinical systematic review to assess the current evidence of EAAGA for cognition impairment. We searched 7 databases up until June 2019. Methodological quality for each included studies was accessed according to the CAMARADES 10-item checklist. The primary outcome measures were neurobehavioral function scores evaluated by the Morris water maze test, electrical Y-maze test, step-down test, radial eight-arm maze test, and step-through test. The secondary outcome measures were mechanisms of EAAGA for cognition function. Finally, 34 studies involving 1431 animals were identified. The quality score of studies range from 1 to 6, and the median was 3.32. Compared with controls, the results of the meta-analysis indicated EAAGA exerted a significant effect in decreasing the escape latency and error times and in increasing the length of time spent in the platform quadrant and the number of platform crossings representing learning ability and memory function (all P < 0.01). The possible mechanisms of EAAGA are largely through anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiapoptosis activities, inhibition of neurotoxicity, regulating synaptic plasticity, protecting cerebrovascular, stimulating cholinergic system, and suppressing astrocyte activation. In conclusion, EAAGA exert potential neuroprotective effects in experimental cognition impairment, and EAAGA could be a candidate for cognition impairment treatment and further clinical trials.
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Catharmus tinctorius volatile oil promote the migration of mesenchymal stem cells via ROCK2/Myosin light chain signaling. Chin J Nat Med 2020; 17:506-516. [PMID: 31514982 DOI: 10.1016/s1875-5364(19)30072-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
MSC transplantation has been explored as a new clinical approach to stem cell-based therapies for bone diseases in regenerative medicine due to their osteogenic capability. However, only a small population of implanted MSC could successfully reach the injured areas. Therefore, enhancing MSC migration could be a beneficial strategy to improve the therapeutic potential of cell transplantation. Catharmus tinctorius volatile oil (CTVO) was found to facilitate MSC migration. Further exploration of the underlying molecular mechanism participating in the pro-migratory ability may provide a novel strategy to improve MSC transplantation efficacy. This study indicated that CTVO promotes MSC migration through enhancing ROCK2 mRNA and protein expressions. MSC migration induced by CTVO was blunted by ROCK2 inhibitor, which also decreased myosin light chain (MLC) phosphorylation. Meanwhile, the siRNA for ROCK2 inhibited the effect of CTVO on MSC migration ability and attenuated MLC phosphorylation, suggesting that CTVO may promote BMSC migration via the ROCK2/MLC signaling. Taken together, this study indicates that C. tinctorius volatile oil could enhance MSC migration via ROCK2/MLC signaling in vitro. C. tinctorius volatile oil-targeted therapy could be a beneficial strategy to improve the therapeutic potential of cell transplantation for bone diseases in regenerative medicine.
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Wen F, Zhuge W, Wang J, Lu X, You R, Liu L, Zhuge Q, Ding S. Oridonin prevents insulin resistance-mediated cognitive disorder through PTEN/Akt pathway and autophagy in minimal hepatic encephalopathy. J Cell Mol Med 2019; 24:61-78. [PMID: 31568638 PMCID: PMC6933371 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.14546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2019] [Revised: 05/21/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) was characterized for cognitive dysfunction. Insulin resistance (IR) has been identified to be correlated with the pathogenesis of MHE. Oridonin (Ori) is an active terpenoid, which has been reported to rescue synaptic loss and restore insulin sensitivity. In this study, we found that intraperitoneal injection of Ori rescued IR, reduced the autophagosome formation and synaptic loss and improved cognitive dysfunction in MHE rats. Moreover, in insulin‐resistant PC12 cells and N2a cells, we found that Ori blocked IR‐induced synaptic deficits via the down‐regulation of PTEN, the phosphorylation of Akt and the inhibition of autophagy. Taken together, these results suggested that Ori displays therapeutic efficacy towards memory deficits via improvement of IR in MHE and represents a novel bioactive therapeutic agent for treating MHE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangfang Wen
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Aging and Neurological Disease Research, Department of Surgery Laboratory, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Hepato-Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Weishan Zhuge
- Gastrointestinal Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Jian Wang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Aging and Neurological Disease Research, Department of Surgery Laboratory, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Hepato-Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Xiaoai Lu
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Aging and Neurological Disease Research, Department of Surgery Laboratory, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Ruimin You
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Aging and Neurological Disease Research, Department of Surgery Laboratory, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Leping Liu
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Aging and Neurological Disease Research, Department of Surgery Laboratory, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Qichuan Zhuge
- Neurosurgery Department, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Saidan Ding
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Aging and Neurological Disease Research, Department of Surgery Laboratory, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
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12
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Liu B, Liu J, Zhang J, Mao W, Li S. Effects of autophagy on synaptic-plasticity-related protein expression in the hippocampus CA1 of a rat model of vascular dementia. Neurosci Lett 2019; 707:134312. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2019.134312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2019] [Revised: 05/24/2019] [Accepted: 05/31/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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13
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Li LX, Liu MY, Jiang X, Xia ZH, Wang YX, An D, Wang HG, Heng B, Liu YQ. Metformin inhibits Aβ 25-35 -induced apoptotic cell death in SH-SY5Y cells. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol 2019; 125:439-449. [PMID: 31220411 DOI: 10.1111/bcpt.13279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2019] [Accepted: 06/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Metformin, a first-line drug for type-2 diabetes, plays a potentially protective role in preventing Alzheimer's disease (AD), but its underlying mechanism is unclear. In this study, Aβ25-35 -treated SH-SY5Y cells were used as a cell model of AD to investigate the neuroprotective effect of metformin, as well as its underlying mechanisms. We found that metformin decreased the cell apoptosis rate and death, ratio of Bcl-2/Bax, and expression of NR2A and NR2B, and increased the expression of LC3 in Aβ25-35 -treated SH-SY5Y cells. Metformin also reduced intracellular and extracellular Glu concentrations, as well as the intracellular concentration of Ca2+ and ROS in Aβ25-35 -treated SH-SY5Y cells. These findings suggest that metformin inhibits Aβ25-35 -treated SH-SY5Y cell death by inhibiting apoptosis, decreasing intracellular Ca2+ and ROS by reducing neurotoxicity of excitatory amino acids, and by possibly reversing autophagy disorder via regulating autophagy process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Xia Li
- Department of Zoology and Developmental Biology, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Meng-Yu Liu
- Department of Zoology and Developmental Biology, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Xue Jiang
- Department of Zoology and Developmental Biology, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhen-Hong Xia
- Department of Zoology and Developmental Biology, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yu-Xiang Wang
- Department of Zoology and Developmental Biology, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Di An
- Department of Zoology and Developmental Biology, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Hong-Gang Wang
- Department of Zoology and Developmental Biology, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Bin Heng
- Department of Zoology and Developmental Biology, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yan-Qiang Liu
- Department of Zoology and Developmental Biology, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
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14
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Das BK, Swamy AV, Koti BC, Gadad PC. Experimental evidence for use of Acorus calamus (asarone) for cancer chemoprevention. Heliyon 2019; 5:e01585. [PMID: 31193009 PMCID: PMC6513775 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2019.e01585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2018] [Revised: 04/20/2019] [Accepted: 04/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer is one of the major non-communicable diseases posing substantial challenges in both developing and developed countries. The options available for treatment of different cancer are associated with various limitations, including severe toxicity, drug resistance, poor outcomes and a high risk of relapse. Hence, an increased attention and necessity for screening of various phytochemicals from natural sources for superior and safer alternative has been ongoing for several decades. In recent years, phytochemicals like galantamine, erwinaze, rivastigmine, resveratrol from natural sources have been found to be important therapeutic targets for the treatment of various diseases including cancer, neurodegeneration, diabetes, and cardiovascular effects. Acorus calamus (Sweet flag), and/or its bioactive phytochemical alpha (α)-and beta (β)-asarone, is a well-known drug in the traditional system of medicine which possesses anti-tumor and chemo-preventive activities as evident from numerous pre-clinical studies both in-vitro and in-vivo. In this article, we critically review the current available scientific evidences of A. calamus and/or asarone for cancer chemoprevention based on preclinical in-vitro and in-vivo models. In addition, we also have compiled and discussed the molecular targets of mechanism(s) involved in the anti-cancer activity of A. calamus/asarone. Still, extensive in-vivo studies are necessary using various animal models to understand the molecular mechanism behind the pharmacological activity of the bioactive phytochemicals derived from A. calamus. It is strongly believed that the comprehensive evidence presented in this article could deliver a possible source for researchers to conduct future studies pertaining to A. calamus and/or its bioactive phytochemicals asarone for cancer chemoprevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhrigu Kumar Das
- KLE College of Pharmacy (A Constituent Unit of KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research, Belagavi), Vidyanagar, Hubballi, 580 031, Karnataka, India.,Off-campus Basic and Applied Sciences Research Centre of KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research at KLE College of Pharmacy, Vidyanagar, Hubballi, 580 031, Karnataka, India
| | - Ahm Viswanatha Swamy
- KLE College of Pharmacy (A Constituent Unit of KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research, Belagavi), Vidyanagar, Hubballi, 580 031, Karnataka, India
| | - Basavaraj C Koti
- KLE College of Pharmacy (A Constituent Unit of KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research, Belagavi), Vidyanagar, Hubballi, 580 031, Karnataka, India
| | - Pramod C Gadad
- KLE College of Pharmacy (A Constituent Unit of KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research, Belagavi), Vidyanagar, Hubballi, 580 031, Karnataka, India.,Off-campus Basic and Applied Sciences Research Centre of KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research at KLE College of Pharmacy, Vidyanagar, Hubballi, 580 031, Karnataka, India
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15
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Wang F, Chen D, Wu P, Klein C, Jin C. Formaldehyde, Epigenetics, and Alzheimer's Disease. Chem Res Toxicol 2019; 32:820-830. [PMID: 30964647 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrestox.9b00090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia. The accumulation of β-amyloid plaques and intracellular neurofibrillary tangles of hyperphosphorylated tau protein are two hallmarks of AD. The β-amyloid and tau proteins have been at the center of AD research and drug development for decades. However, most of the clinical trials targeting β-amyloid have failed. Whereas the safety and efficacy of most tau-targeting drugs have not yet been completely assessed, the first tau aggregation inhibitor, LMTX, failed in a late-stage trial, leading to further recognition of the complexities of AD and reconsideration of the amyloid hypothesis and perhaps the tau hypothesis as well. Multilevel complex interactions between genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors contribute to the occurrence and progression of AD. Formaldehyde (FA) is a widespread environmental organic pollutant. It is also an endogenous metabolite in the human body. Recent studies suggest that elevation of FA in the body by endogenous and/or exogenous exposure may play important roles in AD development. We have demonstrated that FA reduces lysine acetylation of cytosolic histones, thereby compromising chromatin assembly and resulting in the loss of histone content in chromatin, a conserved feature of aging from yeast to humans. Aging is an important factor for AD progression. Therefore, FA-induced inhibition of chromatin assembly and the loss of histones may contribute to AD initiation and/or development. This review will briefly summarize current knowledge on mechanistic insights into AD, focusing on epigenetic alterations and the involvement of FA in AD development. The exploration of chemical exposures as contributing factors to AD may provide new insights into AD mechanisms and could identify potential novel therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Wang
- School of Public Health , China Medical University , Shenyang 110122 , China
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16
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Chen FJ, Liu B, Wu Q, Liu J, Xu YY, Zhou SY, Shi JS. Icariin Delays Brain Aging in Senescence-Accelerated Mouse Prone 8 (SAMP8) Model via Inhibiting Autophagy. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2019; 369:121-128. [PMID: 30837279 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.118.253310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2018] [Accepted: 02/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Icariin (ICA), a major flavonoid extracted from the Chinese tonic herb Epimedium, exerts beneficial effects in a variety of age-dependent diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, the antiaging mechanisms remain unclear. The senescence-accelerated mouse-prone 8 (SAMP8) model has been used to study age-related neurodegenerative changes associated with aging and the pathogenesis of AD. Hence, the current study was designed to examine the effect of ICA on age-related cognitive decline in SAMP8 mice and explore the role of autophagy in the ICA-mediated neuroprotection. SAMP8 mice were administered with ICA starting at 5 months of age, and the treatment lasted for 3 consecutive months. Morris water maze was used to evaluate cognitive function. The senescence-associated β-galactosidase staining was used to determine the number of senescence cells. The neuronal morphologic changes were examined via Nissl staining. The hippocampal neuronal ultrastructure was examined by transmission electron microscopy. The expression of autophagy protein was examined by Western blot. ICA-treated SAMP8 mice exhibited a robust improvement in spatial learning and memory function. Meanwhile, ICA reduced the number of senescence cells in the brains of SAMP8 mice, inhibited neuronal loss, and reversed neuronal structural changes in the hippocampi of SAMP8 mice. Moreover, ICA treatment also decreased the formation of autophagosomes in the hippocampus of SAMP8 mice, and reduced the expression of autophagy-related proteins LC3-II and p62. These results demonstrate that ICA possesses the ability to delay brain aging in SAMP8 mice, and the mechanisms are possibly mediated through the regulation of autophagy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fa-Ju Chen
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, People's Republic of China
| | - Bo Liu
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, People's Republic of China
| | - Qin Wu
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, People's Republic of China
| | - Jie Liu
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, People's Republic of China
| | - Yun-Yan Xu
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, People's Republic of China
| | - Shao-Yu Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing-Shan Shi
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, People's Republic of China
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17
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Khwairakpam AD, Damayenti YD, Deka A, Monisha J, Roy NK, Padmavathi G, Kunnumakkara AB. Acorus calamus: a bio-reserve of medicinal values. J Basic Clin Physiol Pharmacol 2018; 29:107-122. [PMID: 29389665 DOI: 10.1515/jbcpp-2016-0132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2016] [Accepted: 10/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Many plants are found to possess reliable pharmacological properties and have started to attract the attention of researchers. One such holistic plant is Acorus calamus, commonly known as sweet flag, belonging to the rhizomatous family Acoraceae. The different parts of this plant, such as the leaves and rhizomes, are used traditionally in different medicinal preparations for the treatment of various ailments including arthritis, neuralgia, diarrhoea, dyspepsia, kidney and liver troubles, eczema, sinusitis, asthma, fevers, bronchitis, hair loss, and other disorders. Many reports have also appeared in mainstream scientific journals confirming its nutritional and medicinal properties. Biochemical analysis of the plant has revealed a large number of secondary metabolites that may be responsible for its rich medicinal properties. Basic scientific research has uncovered the mechanisms by which itexerts its therapeutic effects. Medicinal herbs such as A. calamus are quite promising in the recent therapeutic scenario, with a large number of people favouring remedies and health approaches that are free from the side effects often associated with synthetic chemicals. In this review, we try to summarise the ethno-medicinal uses, botanical descriptions, phytochemical constituents, and biological activity of the plant parts, as well as the molecular targets of A. calamus, which we hope will serve as a good base for further work on this plant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amrita Devi Khwairakpam
- Cancer Biology Laboratory and DBT-AIST International Laboratory for Advanced Biomedicine (DAILAB), Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam-781039, India
| | - Yengkhom Devi Damayenti
- Cancer Biology Laboratory and DBT-AIST International Laboratory for Advanced Biomedicine (DAILAB), Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam-781039, India
| | - Anindita Deka
- Cancer Biology Laboratory and DBT-AIST International Laboratory for Advanced Biomedicine (DAILAB), Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam-781039, India
| | - Javadi Monisha
- Cancer Biology Laboratory and DBT-AIST International Laboratory for Advanced Biomedicine (DAILAB), Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam-781039, India
| | - Nand Kishor Roy
- Cancer Biology Laboratory and DBT-AIST International Laboratory for Advanced Biomedicine (DAILAB), Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam-781039, India
| | - Ganesan Padmavathi
- Cancer Biology Laboratory and DBT-AIST International Laboratory for Advanced Biomedicine (DAILAB), Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam-781039, India
| | - Ajaikumar B Kunnumakkara
- Cancer Biology Laboratory and DBT-AIST International Laboratory for Advanced Biomedicine (DAILAB), Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam-781039, India, Phone: +91 361 258 2231 (office), +91 789 600 5326 (mobile), Fax: +91 361 258 2249 (office), E-mail:
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18
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Hou XQ, Song HP, Chen YB, Cheng SY, Fang SH, Zhang JG, Wang Q. Effects of Bushen-Yizhi formula on age-related inflammation and oxidative stress in senescence-accelerated mice. Mol Med Rep 2018; 17:6947-6960. [PMID: 29568888 PMCID: PMC5928649 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2018.8736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2016] [Accepted: 04/27/2017] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study aimed to investigate the possible effects and underlying molecular mechanism of Bushen-Yizhi formula (BSYZ), a traditional Chinese medicine, on age-related degeneration of brain physiology in senescence-accelerated mouse prone 8 (SAMP8) mice. SAMP8 mice (age, 6 months) were administered BSYZ (1.46, 2.92 and 5.84 g/kg/day) for 30 days. Morris water maze and step-down tests demonstrated that BSYZ significantly improved memory impairments in SAMP8 mice. In addition, BSYZ significantly enhanced the expression levels of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ and B-cell lymphoma extra-large, and downregulated the expression levels of inflammatory mediators, glial fibrillary acidic protein, cyclooxygenase-2, nuclear factor-κB and interleukin-1β in the brain compared with untreated SAMP8 mice. Furthermore, BSYZ reversed disordered superoxide dismutase activity, malondialdehyde content and glutathione peroxidase activity, and ameliorated apoptosis and histological alterations. The present study indicated that BSYZ may attenuate cognitive impairment in SAMP8 mice, and modulate inflammation, oxidative stress and neuronal apoptosis. These results suggested that BSYZ may have the potential to be further developed into a therapeutic agent for protection against age-related neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue-Qin Hou
- Institute of Pharmacology, Taishan Medical College, Tai'an, Shandong 271016, P.R. China
| | - Hou-Pan Song
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Diagnostics in Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, P.R. China
| | - Yun-Bo Chen
- Design, Measurement and Evaluation in Clinical Research Center, Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, P.R. China
| | - Shu-Yi Cheng
- Design, Measurement and Evaluation in Clinical Research Center, Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, P.R. China
| | - Shu-Huan Fang
- Design, Measurement and Evaluation in Clinical Research Center, Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, P.R. China
| | - Ji-Guo Zhang
- Institute of Pharmacology, Taishan Medical College, Tai'an, Shandong 271016, P.R. China
| | - Qi Wang
- Design, Measurement and Evaluation in Clinical Research Center, Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, P.R. China
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19
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Vilalta A, Brown GC. Neurophagy, the phagocytosis of live neurons and synapses by glia, contributes to brain development and disease. FEBS J 2017; 285:3566-3575. [PMID: 29125686 DOI: 10.1111/febs.14323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2017] [Revised: 10/31/2017] [Accepted: 11/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
It was previously thought that neurons were phagocytosed only when dead or dying. However, it is increasingly clear that viable synapses, dendrites, axons and whole neurons can be phagocytosed alive (defined here as neurophagy), and this may contribute to a wide range of developmental, physiological and pathological processes. Phagocytosis of live synapses, dendrites and axons by glia contributes to experience-dependent sculpting of neuronal networks during development, but excessive phagocytosis of synapses may contribute to pathology in Alzheimer's disease, schizophrenia and ageing. Neurons can expose phosphatidylserine or calreticulin, which act as 'eat me' signals provoking phagocytosis via microglial receptors, whereas sialylation of neuronal surfaces acts as a 'don't eat me' signal that inhibits phagocytosis and desialylation can provoke phagocytosis. Opsonins, such as complement components and apolipoproteins, are released during inflammation and enhance engulfment. Phagocytosis of neurons is seen in multiple human diseases, but it is as yet unclear whether inhibition of phagocytosis will be beneficial in treating neurological diseases. Here we review the signals regulating glial phagocytosis of live neurons and synapses, and the involvement of this phagocytosis in development and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Vilalta
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, UK
| | - Guy C Brown
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, UK
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20
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Chellian R, Pandy V, Mohamed Z. Pharmacology and toxicology of α- and β-Asarone: A review of preclinical evidence. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2017; 32:41-58. [PMID: 28732807 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2017.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2016] [Revised: 03/20/2017] [Accepted: 04/08/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Asarone is one of the most researched phytochemicals and is mainly present in the Acorus species and Guatteria gaumeri Greenman. In preclinical studies, both α- and β-asarone have been reported to have numerous pharmacological activities and at the same time, many studies have also revealed the toxicity of α- and β-asarone. PURPOSE The purpose of this comprehensive review is to compile and analyze the information related to the pharmacokinetic, pharmacological, and toxicological studies reported on α- and β-asarone using preclinical in vitro and in vivo models. Besides, the molecular targets and mechanism(s) involved in the biological activities of α- and β-asarone were discussed. METHODS Databases including PubMed, ScienceDirect and Google scholar were searched and the literature from the year 1960 to January 2017 was retrieved using keywords such as α-asarone, β-asarone, pharmacokinetics, toxicology, pharmacological activities (e.g. depression, anxiety). RESULTS Based on the data obtained from the literature search, the pharmacokinetic studies of α- and β-asarone revealed that their oral bioavailability in rodents is poor with a short plasma half-life. Moreover, the metabolism of α- and β-asarone occurs mainly through cytochrome-P450 pathways. Besides, both α- and/or β-asarone possess a wide range of pharmacological activities such as antidepressant, antianxiety, anti-Alzheimer's, anti-Parkinson's, antiepileptic, anticancer, antihyperlipidemic, antithrombotic, anticholestatic and radioprotective activities through its interaction with multiple molecular targets. Importantly, the toxicological studies revealed that both α- and β-asarone can cause hepatomas and might possess mutagenicity, genotoxicity, and teratogenicity. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, further preclinical studies are required to confirm the pharmacological properties of α-asarone against depression, anxiety, Parkinson's disease, psychosis, drug dependence, pain, inflammation, cholestasis and thrombosis. Besides, the anticancer effect of β-asarone should be further studied in different types of cancers using in vivo models. Moreover, further dose-dependent in vivo studies are required to confirm the toxicity of α- and β-asarone. Overall, this extensive review provides a detailed information on the preclinical pharmacological and toxicological activities of α-and β-asarone and this could be very useful for researchers who wish to conduct further preclinical studies using α- and β-asarone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ranjithkumar Chellian
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Vijayapandi Pandy
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Zahurin Mohamed
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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21
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Huang L, Deng M, He Y, Lu S, Liu S, Fang Y. β-asarone increases MEF2D and TH levels and reduces α-synuclein level in 6-OHDA-induced rats via regulating the HSP70/MAPK/MEF2D/Beclin-1 pathway: Chaperone-mediated autophagy activation, macroautophagy inhibition and HSP70 up-expression. Behav Brain Res 2016; 313:370-379. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2016.07.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2016] [Revised: 07/13/2016] [Accepted: 07/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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22
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Neuroprotection Through Rapamycin-Induced Activation of Autophagy and PI3K/Akt1/mTOR/CREB Signaling Against Amyloid-β-Induced Oxidative Stress, Synaptic/Neurotransmission Dysfunction, and Neurodegeneration in Adult Rats. Mol Neurobiol 2016; 54:5815-5828. [DOI: 10.1007/s12035-016-0129-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2016] [Accepted: 09/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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23
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Zhang Y, Li Q, Liu C, Gao S, Ping H, Wang J, Wang P. MiR-214-3p attenuates cognition defects via the inhibition of autophagy in SAMP8 mouse model of sporadic Alzheimer's disease. Neurotoxicology 2016; 56:139-149. [PMID: 27397902 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2016.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2016] [Revised: 05/28/2016] [Accepted: 07/06/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The autophagy process is the major cellular degradation pathway for long-lived proteins and organelles. Dysfunction of autophagy may lead to several neurodegenerative disorders. However, the regulation and function of autophagy in sporadic Alzheimer's disease (SAD) remain unclear. In this study, we established SAMP8 mouse as a suitable SAD model and performed microarray profiling to identify miR-214-3p as a SAD associated microRNA that was downregulated in hippocampal neurons of SAMP8 mice upon the induction of autophagy. Furthermore, decreased miR-214-3p level was detected in cerebrospinal fluid from SAD patients. Overexpression of miR-214-3p in primary neurons from SAMP8 mice inhibited autophagy, demonstrated by decreased levels of LC3βII and Beclin1, and reduced number of GFP-LC3-positive autophagosome vesicles, and led to increased viability and decreased caspase-mediated apoptosis. Conversely, antagomiR-214-3p promoted autophagy and apoptosis in neurons from SAMP8 mice. Mechanistically, miR-214-3p negatively regulated Atg12 expression by targeting the 3'-untranslated region of Atg12. Treatment of SAMP8 mice with miR-214-3p attenuated neuronal apoptosis and improved behavioral performance. Taken together, these results suggest that miR-214-3p suppresses autophagy and alleviates hippocampal neuron apoptosis, which indicates that miR-214-3p represents a new potential neuroprotective factor for SAD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yueqi Zhang
- Department of Neurology of Weifang People's Hospital, Weifang 261041, Shandong, PR China
| | - Qiliang Li
- Department of Medical Laboratory of Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100053, PR China
| | - Chengeng Liu
- Clinical Laboratory of Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100053, PR China
| | - Shichao Gao
- Clinical Laboratory of Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100053, PR China
| | - Hong Ping
- Clinical Laboratory of Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100053, PR China
| | - Jinling Wang
- Clinical Laboratory of Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100053, PR China
| | - Peichang Wang
- Clinical Laboratory of Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100053, PR China.
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Abstract
Covering: up to 2015. Traditional Chinese medicine has played a significant role in the mainstream healthcare system in China for thousands of years. Here, we summarize 84 major compounds from 15 selected herbal medicines targeting neurodegenerative diseases. We present a perspective based on the analysis of physicochemical properties of these TCM compounds, and comparison with current drugs and candidates for the treatment of Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease. The results demonstrate that traditional Chinese medicines contain compounds possessing physicochemical properties that have excellent overlap with developed western medicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunping Tang
- Eskitis Institute for Drug Discovery, Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD 4111, Australia. and State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Yang Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China and Eskitis-SIMM Joint Laboratory for Drug Discovery, Australia
| | - Yunjiang Feng
- Eskitis Institute for Drug Discovery, Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD 4111, Australia. and Eskitis-SIMM Joint Laboratory for Drug Discovery, Australia
| | - Ronald J Quinn
- Eskitis Institute for Drug Discovery, Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD 4111, Australia. and Eskitis-SIMM Joint Laboratory for Drug Discovery, Australia
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Liu SJ, Yang C, Zhang Y, Su RY, Chen JL, Jiao MM, Chen HF, Zheng N, Luo S, Chen YB, Quan SJ, Wang Q. Neuroprotective effect of β-asarone against Alzheimer's disease: regulation of synaptic plasticity by increased expression of SYP and GluR1. DRUG DESIGN DEVELOPMENT AND THERAPY 2016; 10:1461-9. [PMID: 27143853 PMCID: PMC4841421 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s93559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Aim β-asarone, an active component of Acori graminei rhizome, has been reported to have neuroprotective effects in Alzheimer’s disease. As the underlying mechanism is not known, we investigated the neuroprotective effects of β-asarone in an APP/PS1 double transgenic mouse model and in NG108 cells. Materials and methods APPswe/PS1dE9 double transgenic male mice were randomly assigned to a model group, β-asarone treatment groups (21.2, 42.4, or 84.8 mg/kg/d), or donepezil treatment group (2 mg/kg/d). Donepezil treatment was a positive control, and background- and age-matched wild-type B6 mice were an external control group. β-asarone (95.6% purity) was dissolved in 0.8% Tween 80 and administered by gavage once daily for 2.5 months. Control and model animals received an equal volume of vehicle. After 2.5 months of treatment, behavior of all animals was evaluated in a Morris water maze. Expression of synaptophysin (SYP) and glutamatergic receptor 1 (G1uR1) in the hippocampus and cortex of the double transgenic mice was assayed by Western blotting. The antagonistic effects of β-asarone against amyloid-β peptide (Aβ) were investigated in vitro in the NG108-15 cell line. After 24 hours of incubation, cells were treated with 10 μm Aβ with or without β-asarone at different concentrations (6.25, 12.5, or 25 μM) for an additional 36 hours. The cytotoxicity of β-asarone was evaluated by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay of cell viability, and cell morphology was evaluated by bright-field microscopy after 24 hours of treatment. The expression of SYP and GluR1 in cells was detected by Western blot assay in the hippocampus and brain cortex tissues of mice. Results β-asarone at a high dose reduced escape latency and upregulated SYP and GluR1 expression at both medium and high doses. Cell morphology evaluation showed that β-asarone treatment did not result in obvious cell surface spots and cytoplasmic granularity. β-asarone had a dose-dependent effect on cell proliferation. Conclusion β-asarone antagonized the Aβ neurotoxicity in vivo, improved the learning and memory ability of APP/PS1 mice, and increased the expression of SYP and GluR1 both in vivo and in vitro. Thus, β-asarone may be a potential drug for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si-Jun Liu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Cong Yang
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Yue Zhang
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Ru-Yu Su
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun-Li Chen
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Meng-Meng Jiao
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Hui-Fang Chen
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Na Zheng
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Si Luo
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Yun-Bo Chen
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Shi-Jian Quan
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Qi Wang
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
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Deficit of RACK1 contributes to the spatial memory impairment via upregulating BECLIN1 to induce autophagy. Life Sci 2016; 151:115-121. [PMID: 26930371 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2016.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2015] [Revised: 12/14/2015] [Accepted: 02/05/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Deficiency of activated C kinase1 (RACK1) in the brain of aging animal and Alzheimer's disease was characterized by cognitive dementia and spatial memory impairment. However, the correlation between the RACK1 and spatial memory impairment and the mechanism involved in it remains unknown. MAIN METHODS Spatial memory impairment was performed in mice by lateral ventricle injection of Aβ25-35 (n=16, 10μl) and intraperitoneal injection of scopolamine (n=16, 10ml/kg). After the Morris water maze (MWM) which was performed to determine the ability of learning and memory in mice, expression of RACK1 was tested and the damage of hippocampus was confirmed by histopathology test. ShRACK1 was then used to decrease the level of RACK1 in hippocampus to test the ability of learning and memory and histopathology changes in hippocampus. To look into the mechanism of RACK1 on spatial memory impairment, we further measured the expression of autophagy proteins BECLIN1 and LC3-II/I in hippocampus of all mice. KEY FINDINGS Both the Aβ25-35, scopolamine impaired the spatial memory in mice (for escape latency, P=0.0004, P<0.0001) and severely damaged hippocampal DG neurons (P=0.012, P=0.014). The expression of RACK1 was significantly decreased which was concomitant with elevated BECLIN1 and LC3-II/I (P<0.001). Suppression of RACK1 by ShRACK1 plasmid (shGnb2l1) significantly impaired the spatial memory in mice, damaged hippocampal DG neurons (P=0.013), and increased the proteins of BECLIN1 and LC3-II/I (P<0.005). SIGNIFICANCE It demonstrated that the deficit of RACK1 in hippocampus impairs the ability of learning and memory in mice via up regulating autophagy.
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Li X, Bao X, Wang R. Experimental models of Alzheimer's disease for deciphering the pathogenesis and therapeutic screening (Review). Int J Mol Med 2015; 37:271-83. [PMID: 26676932 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2015.2428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2015] [Accepted: 12/02/2015] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite decades of laboratory and clinical research, Alzheimer's disease (AD) is still the leading cause of dementia in adults and there are no curative therapies currently available for this disease. This may be due to the pathological features of AD, which include extensive extracellular amyloid plaques and intracellular neurofibrillary tangles, as well as subsequent neuronal and synaptic loss, which begin to appear several years prior to memory loss and the damge is already irreversible and extensive at the time of clinical diagnosis. The poor therapeutic effects of current treatments necessitate the introduction of experimental models able to replicate AD pathology, particularly in the pre-symptomatic stage, and then to explore preventive and therapeutic strategies. In response to this necessity, various experimental models reproducing human AD pathology have been developed, which are also useful tools for therapeutic screening. Although none of these models fully reproduce the key features of human AD, the experimental models do provide important insight into the pathological changes which occur in AD. This review summarizes the commonly used experimental models of AD and also discusses how the models may be used to decipher the pathogenesis underlying AD and to screen novel therapies for this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueyuan Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Dongdan, Dong Cheng, Beijing 100005, P.R. China
| | - Xinjie Bao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Dongdan, Dong Cheng, Beijing 100005, P.R. China
| | - Renzhi Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Dongdan, Dong Cheng, Beijing 100005, P.R. China
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28
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Lee B, Sur B, Cho SG, Yeom M, Shim I, Lee H, Hahm DH. Effect of Beta-Asarone on Impairment of Spatial Working Memory and Apoptosis in the Hippocampus of Rats Exposed to Chronic Corticosterone Administration. Biomol Ther (Seoul) 2015; 23:571-81. [PMID: 26535083 PMCID: PMC4624074 DOI: 10.4062/biomolther.2015.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2015] [Revised: 08/11/2015] [Accepted: 08/12/2015] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
β-asarone (BAS) is an active component of Acori graminei rhizoma, a traditional medicine used clinically in treating dementia and chronic stress in Korea. However, the cognitive effects of BAS and its mechanism of action have remained elusive. The purpose of this study was to examine whether BAS improved spatial cognitive impairment induced in rats following chronic corticosterone (CORT) administration. CORT administration (40 mg/kg, i.p., 21 days) resulted in cognitive impairment in the avoidance conditioning test (AAT) and the Morris water maze (MWM) test that was reversed by BAS (200 mg/kg, i.p). Additionally, as assessed by immunohistochemistry and RT-PCR analysis, the administration of BAS significantly alleviated memory-associated decreases in the expression levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and cAMP-response element-binding protein (CREB) proteins and mRNAs in the hippocampus. Also, BAS administration significantly restored the expression of Bax and Bcl-2 mRNAs in the hippocampus. Thus, BAS may be an effective therapeutic for learning and memory disturbances, and its neuroprotective effect was mediated, in part, by normalizing the CORT response, resulting in regulation of BDNF and CREB functions and anti-apoptosis in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bombi Lee
- Acupuncture and Meridian Science Research Center, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447,
Republic of Korea
| | - Bongjun Sur
- Acupuncture and Meridian Science Research Center, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447,
Republic of Korea
| | - Seong-Guk Cho
- The Graduate School of Basic Science of Korean Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447,
Republic of Korea
| | - Mijung Yeom
- Acupuncture and Meridian Science Research Center, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447,
Republic of Korea
| | - Insop Shim
- Acupuncture and Meridian Science Research Center, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447,
Republic of Korea
- The Graduate School of Basic Science of Korean Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447,
Republic of Korea
| | - Hyejung Lee
- Acupuncture and Meridian Science Research Center, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447,
Republic of Korea
- The Graduate School of Basic Science of Korean Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447,
Republic of Korea
| | - Dae-Hyun Hahm
- Acupuncture and Meridian Science Research Center, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447,
Republic of Korea
- The Graduate School of Basic Science of Korean Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447,
Republic of Korea
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29
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Zhang X, Yi L, Deng B, Chen L, Shi S, Zhuang Y, Zhang Y. Discrimination of Acori Tatarinowii Rhizoma and Acori Calami Rhizoma based on quantitative gas chromatographic fingerprints and chemometric methods. J Sep Sci 2015; 38:4078-85. [DOI: 10.1002/jssc.201500730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2015] [Revised: 09/01/2015] [Accepted: 09/14/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojuan Zhang
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering; Central South University; Changsha China
| | - Lunzhao Yi
- Yunnan Food Safety Research Institute; Kunming University of Science and Technology; Kunming China
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering; Central South University; Changsha China
| | - Baichuan Deng
- College of Animal Science; South China Agricultural University; Guangzhou China
| | - Lian Chen
- Central South University of Forestry and Technology; Changsha China
- Hunan Entry-Exit Inspection and Quarantine Bureau; Changsha China
| | - Shuting Shi
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering; Central South University; Changsha China
| | - Yongliang Zhuang
- Yunnan Food Safety Research Institute; Kunming University of Science and Technology; Kunming China
| | - Yi Zhang
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering; Central South University; Changsha China
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Liang ZH, Cheng XH, Ruan ZG, Wang H, Li SS, Liu J, Li GY, Tian SM. Protective effects of components of the Chinese herb grassleaf sweetflag rhizome on PC12 cells incubated with amyloid-beta42. Neural Regen Res 2015; 10:1292-7. [PMID: 26487858 PMCID: PMC4590243 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.162762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The major ingredients of grassleaf sweetflag rhizome are β-asarone and eugenol, which can cross the blood-brain barrier and protect neurons. This study aimed to observe the neuroprotective effects and mechanisms of β-asarone and eugenol, components of the Chinese herb grassleaf sweetflag rhizome, on PC12 cells. First, PC12 cells were cultured with different concentrations (between 1 × 10-10 M and 1 × 10-5 M) of β-asarone and eugenol. Survival rates of PC12 cells were not significantly affected. Second, PC12 cells incubated with amyloid-beta42, which reduced cell survival, were cultured under the same conditions (1 × 10-6 M β-asarone and eugenol). The survival rates of PC12 cells significantly increased, while expression levels of the mRNAs for the pro-apoptotic protein Bax decreased, and those for the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl mRNA increased. In addition, the combination of β-asarone with eugenol achieved better results than either component alone. Our experimental findings indicate that both β-asarone and eugenol protect PC12 cells through inhibiting apoptosis, and that the combination of the two is better than either alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zi-Hao Liang
- Department of Anatomy and Histology, Basic Medical College, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Xiao-Hui Cheng
- Department of Anatomy and Histology, Basic Medical College, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Zhi-Gang Ruan
- Department of Anatomy and Histology, Basic Medical College, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Han Wang
- Department of Anatomy and Histology, Basic Medical College, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Shan-Shan Li
- Department of Anatomy and Histology, Basic Medical College, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Jing Liu
- Department of Anatomy and Histology, Basic Medical College, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Guo-Ying Li
- Department of Anatomy and Histology, Basic Medical College, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Su-Min Tian
- Department of Physiology, Basic Medical College, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
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31
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Shen DN, Zhang LH, Wei EQ, Yang Y. Autophagy in synaptic development, function, and pathology. Neurosci Bull 2015; 31:416-26. [PMID: 26139541 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-015-1536-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2015] [Accepted: 05/30/2015] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
In the nervous system, neurons contact each other to form neuronal circuits and drive behavior, relying heavily on synaptic connections. The proper development and growth of synapses allows functional transmission of electrical information between neurons or between neurons and muscle fibers. Defects in synapse-formation or development lead to many diseases. Autophagy, a major determinant of protein turnover, is an essential process that takes place in developing synapses. During the induction of autophagy, proteins and cytoplasmic components are encapsulated in autophagosomes, which fuse with lysosomes to form autolysosomes. The cargoes are subsequently degraded and recycled. However, aberrant autophagic activity may lead to synaptic dysfunction, which is a common pathological characteristic in several disorders. Here, we review the current understanding of autophagy in regulating synaptic development and function. In addition, autophagy-related synaptic dysfunction in human diseases is also summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan-Na Shen
- Department of Pharmacology, Hangzhou Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, School of Medicine, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 310036, China
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32
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Neuroprotective Effects of β-Asarone Against 6-Hydroxy Dopamine-Induced Parkinsonism via JNK/Bcl-2/Beclin-1 Pathway. Mol Neurobiol 2014; 53:83-94. [DOI: 10.1007/s12035-014-8950-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2014] [Accepted: 10/20/2014] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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33
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Neha, Sodhi RK, Jaggi AS, Singh N. Animal models of dementia and cognitive dysfunction. Life Sci 2014; 109:73-86. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2014.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2014] [Revised: 05/16/2014] [Accepted: 05/22/2014] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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