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Yi X, Leng P, Wang S, Liu L, Xie B. Functional Nanomaterials for the Treatment of Osteoarthritis. Int J Nanomedicine 2024; 19:6731-6756. [PMID: 38979531 PMCID: PMC11230134 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s465243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common degenerative joint disease, affecting more than 595 million people worldwide. Nanomaterials possess superior physicochemical properties and can influence pathological processes due to their unique structural features, such as size, surface interface, and photoelectromagnetic thermal effects. Unlike traditional OA treatments, which suffer from short half-life, low stability, poor bioavailability, and high systemic toxicity, nanotherapeutic strategies for OA offer longer half-life, enhanced targeting, improved bioavailability, and reduced systemic toxicity. These advantages effectively address the limitations of traditional therapies. This review aims to inspire researchers to develop more multifunctional nanomaterials and promote their practical application in OA treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyue Yi
- The Third Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, People’s Republic of China
- Clinical Medical College, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, People’s Republic of China
| | - Pengyuan Leng
- The Third Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Supeng Wang
- Clinical Medical College, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, People’s Republic of China
| | - Liangle Liu
- The Third Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Bingju Xie
- The Third Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, People’s Republic of China
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2
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Wu S, Zhou Y, Wang Y, Zhang Z. Therapeutic Potentials of Medicinal Leech in Chinese Medicine. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF CHINESE MEDICINE 2024; 52:1027-1051. [PMID: 38879745 DOI: 10.1142/s0192415x24500423] [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: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
The use of medicinal leeches in clinical therapy has been employed for a long time, as it was originally recognized for exerting antithrombin effects. These effects were due to the ability of the leech to continuously suck blood while attached to human skin. According to Chinese Pharmacopoei, leeches used in traditional Chinese medicine mainly consist of Whitmania pigra Whitman, Hirudo nipponia Whitman, and Whitmania acranulata, but the latter two species are relatively scarce. The main constituents of leeches are protein and peptide macromolecules. They can be categorized into two categories based on their pharmacological effects. One group consists of active ingredients that directly target the coagulation system, such as hirudin, heparin, and histamine, which are widely known. The other group comprises protease inhibitor components like Decorsin and Hementin. Among these, hirudin secreted by the salivary glands of the leech is the most potent thrombin inhibitor and served as the sole remedy for preventing blood clotting until the discovery of heparin. Additionally, leeches play a significant role in various traditional Chinese medicine formulations. In recent decades, medicinal leeches have been applied in fields including anti-inflammatory treatment, cardiovascular disease management, antitumor treatment, and many other medical conditions. In this review, we present a comprehensive overview of the historical journey and medicinal applications of leeches in various medical conditions, emphasizing their pharmaceutical significance within traditional Chinese medicine. This review offers valuable insights for exploring additional therapeutic opportunities involving the use of leeches in various diseases and elucidating their underlying mechanisms for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaohua Wu
- Department of Parasitology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University Changsha, Hunan 410013, P. R. China
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Institute of Integrative Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Changsha 410008, P. R. China
- Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Science of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, P. R. China
| | - Yaya Zhou
- Department of Parasitology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University Changsha, Hunan 410013, P. R. China
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Institute of Integrative Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Changsha 410008, P. R. China
- Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Science of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, P. R. China
| | - Yang Wang
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Institute of Integrative Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Changsha 410008, P. R. China
- Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Science of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, P. R. China
| | - Zuping Zhang
- Department of Parasitology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University Changsha, Hunan 410013, P. R. China
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Zhao F, Huang Z, He B, Liu K, Li J, Liu Z, Lin G. Comparative genomics of two Asian medicinal leeches Hirudo nipponia and Hirudo tianjinensis: With emphasis on antithrombotic genes and their corresponding proteins. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 270:132278. [PMID: 38750856 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.132278] [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: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Leeches secrete various biologically active substances which have important medical and pharmaceutical values in antithrombotic treatments. Here, we provide a high quality genome of two Asian medicinal leeches Hirudo nipponia and Hirudo tianjinensis, based on which, we identified 22 antithrombotic gene families, including fourteen coagulation inhibitors, four platelet aggregation inhibitors, three fibrinolysis enhancers, and one tissue penetration enhancer. The total numbers of antithrombotic genes were similar between H. nipponia (N = 86) and H. tianjinensis (N = 83). Molecular evolution analysis showed that no significant differences were detected between the two species in any of the three selection indices (dN, dS, and dN/dS), nor in the number of sites under positive/purifying selection. RNA-Seq based gene expression analysis showed that the overall expression patterns of the antithrombotic gene families were not significantly deviated between the two species. Our results indicated that there were rather close similarities between the two leeches on genomic characteristics, especially for the molecular evolution and expression of antithrombotic genes. Our study provides the most comprehensive collection of antithrombotic biomacromolecules from the two Asian medicinal leeches to date. These results will greatly facilitate the research and application of leech derivatives for medical and pharmaceutical purposes of thrombosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Zhao
- School of Life Sciences, Jinggangshan University, Ji'an 343009, China
| | - Zuhao Huang
- School of Life Sciences, Jinggangshan University, Ji'an 343009, China
| | - Bo He
- School of Life Sciences, Jinggangshan University, Ji'an 343009, China
| | - Kaiqing Liu
- Engineering Research Center for Exploitation and Utilization of Leech Resources in Universities of Yunnan Province, School of Agronomy and Life Sciences, Kunming University, Kunming 650214, China
| | - Junyu Li
- Department of Ultrasonography, People's Hospital of Fengdu County, Chongqing City, Fengdu 408200, China
| | - Zichao Liu
- Engineering Research Center for Exploitation and Utilization of Leech Resources in Universities of Yunnan Province, School of Agronomy and Life Sciences, Kunming University, Kunming 650214, China; Yunnan Key Laboratory of Biodiversity Information, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650223, China.
| | - Gonghua Lin
- School of Life Sciences, Jinggangshan University, Ji'an 343009, China.
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Sönmez DZ, Taşcı S. The Effect of St. John's Wort Oil (Hypericum Perforatum L.) in Knee Osteoarthritis: A Randomized Controlled and Qualitative Study. Pain Manag Nurs 2024; 25:e115-e125. [PMID: 38242739 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmn.2023.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Reducing pain and improving physical function are critical in the treatment of osteoarthritis. Although individuals use St. John's Wort oil to relieve pain due to osteoarthritis, no scientific research has been found investigating its effectiveness. AIM This study investigated the effect of St. John's Wort oil on pain intensity and physical functions in people with knee osteoarthritis. METHODS This study adopted a single-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, and qualitative mixed design. The sample consisted of 60 patients randomized into intervention (n = 30) and placebo control (n=30) groups. The experimental group participants were treated with topically St. John's Wort oil three times a week for 3 weeks, and the placebo control group participants were treated with olive oil three times a week for 3 weeks. Quantitative data were collected using a patient identification form, the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), and the Visual Analogue Scale. Qualitative data were collected through semi-structured interviews. RESULTS The experimental group had a significantly lower mean Visual Analog Scale score in the first, third, and fourth follow-ups than the control group. The experimental group had significantly lower mean WOMAC-pain, WOMAC-stiffness, and WOMAC-physical function subscale scores in the last follow-up than in the first follow-up. The qualitative data agreed with the quantitative data. CONCLUSIONS The results show that St. John's Wort oil helps people with knee osteoarthritis feel less pain and become physically more active. Additional research is warranted to better understand the effect of St. John's Wort oil on pain intensity and physical functions in people with knee osteoarthritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deniz Zeynep Sönmez
- From the Osmaniye Korkut Ata University Faculty of Health Sciences Midwifery Department, Osmaniye, Turkey.
| | - Sultan Taşcı
- Erciyes University Faculty of Health Sciences Nursing Department, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
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Qi W, Zhang R, Wang Z, Du H, Zhao Y, Shi B, Wang Y, Wang X, Wang P. Advances in the Application of Black Phosphorus-Based Composite Biomedical Materials in the Field of Tissue Engineering. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:242. [PMID: 38399457 PMCID: PMC10892510 DOI: 10.3390/ph17020242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Black Phosphorus (BP) is a new semiconductor material with excellent biocompatibility, degradability, and optical and electrophysical properties. A growing number of studies show that BP has high potential applications in the biomedical field. This article aims to systematically review the research progress of BP composite medical materials in the field of tissue engineering, mining BP in bone regeneration, skin repair, nerve repair, inflammation, treatment methods, and the application mechanism. Furthermore, the paper discusses the shortcomings and future recommendations related to the development of BP. These shortcomings include stability, photothermal conversion capacity, preparation process, and other related issues. However, despite these challenges, the utilization of BP-based medical materials holds immense promise in revolutionizing the field of tissue repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanying Qi
- School of Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250355, China; (W.Q.); (R.Z.)
| | - Ru Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250355, China; (W.Q.); (R.Z.)
| | - Zaishang Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541001, China;
| | - Haitao Du
- Shandong Academy of Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250014, China; (H.D.); (Y.Z.); (Y.W.)
| | - Yiwu Zhao
- Shandong Academy of Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250014, China; (H.D.); (Y.Z.); (Y.W.)
| | - Bin Shi
- Shandong Medicinal Biotechnology Center, Jinan 250062, China;
| | - Yi Wang
- Shandong Academy of Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250014, China; (H.D.); (Y.Z.); (Y.W.)
| | - Xin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biobased Material and Green Papermaking, Faculty of Light Industry, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan 250353, China
| | - Ping Wang
- Shandong Academy of Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250014, China; (H.D.); (Y.Z.); (Y.W.)
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Irnich D, Bäumler P. [Concept for integrative pain treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee based on the evidence for conservative and complementary therapies]. Schmerz 2023; 37:413-425. [PMID: 37505229 DOI: 10.1007/s00482-023-00739-0] [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: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Osteoarthritis of the knee (gonarthritis) represents a medical challenge. RESEARCH QUESTION What is the evidence with respect to approaches of complementary medicine and their integration into multimodal pain management concepts? MATERIAL AND METHODS Qualitative nonsystematic literature search on the epidemiology and pathophysiology as well as informative clinical trials, meta-analyses and clinical guidelines about conservative treatment including complementary therapy for gonarthritis. RESULTS Osteoarthritis of the knee is a frequent condition with biopsychosocial risks factors for chronification. The German S2k clinical guideline (k = consensus-based, not based on scientific systematic literature searches) published by the Association of the Scientific Medical Societies in Germany (AWMF) in 2017 has not yet been updated. The current guidelines of the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) date from 2020. Both guidelines recommend exercise therapy, weight reduction, short-term analgesics, topical therapy, intra-articular corticoid injections and acupuncture with variable strengths. Furthermore, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), laser and other electrophysical therapies, shock waves, traction treatment, ergotherapy, comfrey poultices and mudpacks can also be used. Current research supports the benefits of tai chi/qigong and medicinal leaches. CONCLUSION Complementary treatment approaches, such as acupuncture, tai chi/qigong, topical naturopathic self-treatment and leeches (with limitations) can, in addition to behavioral changes, exercise therapy and short-term pharmacological treatment, be important evidence-based components of integrative pain management concepts, e.g. in terms of an interdisciplinary multimodal pain treatment (IMPT). Besides pain reduction and functional improvement they promote the internal control conviction through the possibility of self-treatment and self-exercise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominik Irnich
- Interdisziplinäre Schmerzambulanz, Klinik für Anaesthesiologie, Klinikum der Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, LMU München, Campus Innenstadt, Pettenkoferstr. 8a, 80336, München, Deutschland.
| | - Petra Bäumler
- Interdisziplinäre Schmerzambulanz, Klinik für Anaesthesiologie, Klinikum der Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, LMU München, Campus Innenstadt, Pettenkoferstr. 8a, 80336, München, Deutschland
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Liu Z, Zhao F, Huang Z, Hu Q, Meng R, Lin Y, Qi J, Lin G. Revisiting the Asian Buffalo Leech ( Hirudinaria manillensis) Genome: Focus on Antithrombotic Genes and Their Corresponding Proteins. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:2068. [PMID: 38003011 PMCID: PMC10671345 DOI: 10.3390/genes14112068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Revised: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Leeches are well-known annelids due to their obligate blood-feeding habits. Some leech species secrete various biologically active substances which have important medical and pharmaceutical value in antithrombotic treatments. In this study, we provided a high-quality genome of the Asian buffalo leech (Hirudinaria manillensis), based on which we performed a systematic identification of potential antithrombotic genes and their corresponding proteins. Combining automatic and manual prediction, we identified 21 antithrombotic gene families including fourteen coagulation inhibitors, three platelet aggregation inhibitors, three fibrinolysis enhancers, and one tissue penetration enhancer. A total of 72 antithrombotic genes, including two pseudogenes, were identified, including most of their corresponding proteins forming three or more disulfide bonds. Three protein families (LDTI, antistasin, and granulin) had internal tandem repeats containing 6, 10, and 12 conserved cysteines, respectively. We also measured the anticoagulant activities of the five identified hirudins (hirudin_Hman1 ~ hirudin_Hman5). The results showed that three (hirudin_Hman1, hirudin_Hman2, and hirudin_Hman5), but not the remaining two, exhibited anticoagulant activities. Our study provides the most comprehensive collection of antithrombotic biomacromolecules from a leech to date. These results will greatly facilitate the research and application of leech derivatives for medical and pharmaceutical purposes in the treatment of thrombotic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zichao Liu
- Engineering Research Center for Exploitation and Utilization of Leech Resources in Universities of Yunnan Province, School of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Kunming University, Kunming 650214, China; (Z.L.); (Q.H.); (R.M.)
| | - Fang Zhao
- School of Life Sciences, Jinggangshan University, Ji’an 343009, China; (F.Z.); (Z.H.); (Y.L.)
| | - Zuhao Huang
- School of Life Sciences, Jinggangshan University, Ji’an 343009, China; (F.Z.); (Z.H.); (Y.L.)
| | - Qingmei Hu
- Engineering Research Center for Exploitation and Utilization of Leech Resources in Universities of Yunnan Province, School of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Kunming University, Kunming 650214, China; (Z.L.); (Q.H.); (R.M.)
| | - Renyuan Meng
- Engineering Research Center for Exploitation and Utilization of Leech Resources in Universities of Yunnan Province, School of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Kunming University, Kunming 650214, China; (Z.L.); (Q.H.); (R.M.)
| | - Yiquan Lin
- School of Life Sciences, Jinggangshan University, Ji’an 343009, China; (F.Z.); (Z.H.); (Y.L.)
| | - Jianxia Qi
- Nujiang Management Bureau of Gaoligongshan National Nature Reserve, Nujiang 673199, China;
| | - Gonghua Lin
- School of Life Sciences, Jinggangshan University, Ji’an 343009, China; (F.Z.); (Z.H.); (Y.L.)
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Patil P, Nene S, Shah S, Singh SB, Srivastava S. Exploration of novel drug delivery systems in topical management of osteoarthritis. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2023; 13:531-546. [PMID: 36031671 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-022-01229-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Osteoarthritis is one of the foremost disabling disorders in the world. There is no definitive treatment to prevent the progression of osteoarthritis. Hence, palliative treatment aims at minimizing pain, disability and improving function, performance and quality of life. Oral administration of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug is associated with number of adverse effects and reduced therapeutic efficacy. Intra-articular injection has been the preferred route of drug administration. However, the clearance of drug from the arthritic site, risk of infections, cost and the pain associated with frequent injections make this route highly non-compliant to patients. Since osteoarthritis is a chronic condition which requires treatment for prolonged duration, there is an urgent need for another administration route which circumvents the hindrances linked with intra-articular route. Transdermal route across the skin locally at the osteoarthritis site could help in surpassing the disadvantages associated with intra-articular route. However, traversing skin barrier and reaching the chondrocytes with sufficient amount of the drug is extremely difficult. Nanocarrier-based approaches could hold an answer to the said shortcomings owing to their reduced size, targeting tunability and site specificity. In this article, we discuss the pathophysiology of osteoarthritis, molecular targets, and utilization of nanocarrier-based approaches to strategize the treatment of osteoarthritis in a new direction, i.e. topical delivery of nanocarriers in osteoarthritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pratiksha Patil
- Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad, 500037, Telangana, India
| | - Shweta Nene
- Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad, 500037, Telangana, India
| | - Saurabh Shah
- Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad, 500037, Telangana, India
| | - Shashi Bala Singh
- Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad, 500037, Telangana, India
| | - Saurabh Srivastava
- Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad, 500037, Telangana, India.
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Liu Z, Sun J, Kong D, Wang Y, Tong X, Cao Y, Bi X, Meng F. Insights into gut microbiota communities of Poecilobdella manillensis, a prevalent Asian medicinal leech. J Appl Microbiol 2022; 133:1402-1413. [PMID: 35262268 DOI: 10.1111/jam.15514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Revised: 02/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Medicinal leeches (Annelida: Hirudinea) are fresh water ectoparasitic species which have been applied as traditional therapy. However, gut microbiota could bring high risks of opportunistic infections after leeching, and arouses great interests. Here gut bacterial and fungal communities of an Asian prevalent leech Poecilobdella manillensis, were characterized and analyzed through culture-independent sequencing. METHODS AND RESULTS With high coverage in 18 samples (>0.999), a more complicated community was apparent after comparing with previous leech studies. A total of 779/939 OTUs of bacteria and fungi were detected from leech guts. The bacterial community was dominated by phylum Bacteroidetes and Synergistetes. Genera Mucinivorans and Fretibacterium accounted mostly at the genus level. And genus Aeromonas showed an extremely low abundance (2.02%) on average. The fungal community was dominated by phylum Ascomycota and Basidiomycota. At the genus level, the dominant OTUs included Mortierella, Geminibasidium and Fusarium. The analysis of core taxa included those above dominant genera and some low-abundance genera (>1%). The functional annotation of bacterial community showed a close correlation with metabolism (34.8 ± 0.6%). Some fungal species were predicted as opportunistic human pathogens including Fusarium and Chaetomiaceae. CONCLUSIONS The present study provides fundamental rationales for further studies of such issues as bacteria-fungi-host interactions, host fitness, potential pathogens and infecting risks after leeching. It shall facilitate in-depth explorations on a safe utilization of leech therapy. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF STUDY Present paper is the first-ever exploration on microbiota of a prevalent Asian medicinal leech based on culture-independent technical. And it is also the first report of gut fungi community of medicinal leech. The diversity and composition of bacteria in P. manillensis was far different from that of the European leech. The main components and core OTUs indicate a particular gut environment of medicinal leech. Unknown bacterial and fungal species were also recovered from leech gut.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zichao Liu
- Engineering Research Center for Exploitation & Utilization of Leech Resources in Universities of Yunnan Province, School of Agriculture & Life Sciences, Kunming University, Kunming, 650214, China
| | - Jianwei Sun
- Department of Medical Ultrasonography, Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, Gejiu, 661000, China
| | - Dejun Kong
- Engineering Research Center for Exploitation & Utilization of Leech Resources in Universities of Yunnan Province, School of Agriculture & Life Sciences, Kunming University, Kunming, 650214, China
| | - Yuxin Wang
- Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xiangrong Tong
- Engineering Research Center for Exploitation & Utilization of Leech Resources in Universities of Yunnan Province, School of Agriculture & Life Sciences, Kunming University, Kunming, 650214, China
| | - Yanru Cao
- Engineering Research Center for Exploitation & Utilization of Leech Resources in Universities of Yunnan Province, School of Agriculture & Life Sciences, Kunming University, Kunming, 650214, China
| | - Xiaoxu Bi
- Engineering Research Center for Exploitation & Utilization of Leech Resources in Universities of Yunnan Province, School of Agriculture & Life Sciences, Kunming University, Kunming, 650214, China
| | - Fanming Meng
- Department of Medical Parasitology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
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Shakouri A, Kahroba H, Hamishekar H, Abdolalizadeh J. Nanoencapsulation of Hirudo medicinalis proteins in liposomes as a nanocarrier for inhibiting angiogenesis through targeting VEGFA in the Breast cancer cell line (MCF-7). BIOIMPACTS 2021; 12:115-126. [PMID: 35411300 PMCID: PMC8905592 DOI: 10.34172/bi.2021.39] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Breast cancer is the most serious cause of women’s death throughout the world. Using nanocarrier vehicles to the exact site of cancer upgrades the therapeutic efficiency of the drugs. Capsulation of active proteins in the vesicular liposomes’ hydrophilic core is essential to develop a therapeutic protein carrier system. We aimed to encapsulate the medicinal leech saliva extract (LSE) and assess the inhibition of angiogenesis of breast cancer cells by targeting vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA). Methods: In this research, enhanced formulation of liposomal protein was determined by zeta potential analysis, droplet size, drug release assay, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Furthermore, a cytotoxicity assay of liposomal LSE was performed to determine the cytotoxic activity of components. For assessing the expression of VEGFA, P53, and hypoxia-inducible factor subunit alpha (HIF1a) genes, Real-Time PCR was applied. Results: Nano liposome was chosen as an enhanced formulation due to its much smaller size (46.23 nm). Liposomal LSE had more practical actions on the MCF-7 cells. As noticed by DAPI staining, apoptosis was extensively greater in treated MCF-7 cells. Wound healing assay demonstrated that MCF-7 cells could not sustain growth at the presence of liposomal LSE and expression of the VEGFA gene was declined in treated cells. Downregulation of VEGFA was evaluated with western blotting technique. Conclusion: It can be concluded that our investigation of the tests confirmed the fact that nano liposomal LSE is a novel promising formulation for anticancer drugs and can significantly improve the penetration of protein drugs to cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Shakouri
- Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Houman Kahroba
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hamed Hamishekar
- Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Jalal Abdolalizadeh
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Paramedical Faculty, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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Craciunescu O, Icriverzi M, Florian PE, Roseanu A, Trif M. Mechanisms and Pharmaceutical Action of Lipid Nanoformulation of Natural Bioactive Compounds as Efficient Delivery Systems in the Therapy of Osteoarthritis. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:1108. [PMID: 34452068 PMCID: PMC8399940 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13081108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease. An objective of the nanomedicine and drug delivery systems field is to design suitable pharmaceutical nanocarriers with controllable properties for drug delivery and site-specific targeting, in order to achieve greater efficacy and minimal toxicity, compared to the conventional drugs. The aim of this review is to present recent data on natural bioactive compounds with anti-inflammatory properties and efficacy in the treatment of OA, their formulation in lipid nanostructured carriers, mainly liposomes, as controlled release systems and the possibility to be intra-articularly (IA) administered. The literature regarding glycosaminoglycans, proteins, polyphenols and their ability to modify the cell response and mechanisms of action in different models of inflammation are reviewed. The advantages and limits of using lipid nanoformulations as drug delivery systems in OA treatment and the suitable route of administration are also discussed. Liposomes containing glycosaminoglycans presented good biocompatibility, lack of immune system activation, targeted delivery of bioactive compounds to the site of action, protection and efficiency of the encapsulated material, and prolonged duration of action, being highly recommended as controlled delivery systems in OA therapy through IA administration. Lipid nanoformulations of polyphenols were tested both in vivo and in vitro models that mimic OA conditions after IA or other routes of administration, recommending their clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oana Craciunescu
- National Institute of R&D for Biological Sciences, 296 Splaiul Independentei, 060031 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Madalina Icriverzi
- The Institute of Biochemistry of the Romanian Academy, 296 Splaiul Independentei, 060031 Bucharest, Romania; (M.I.); (P.E.F.); (A.R.)
| | - Paula Ecaterina Florian
- The Institute of Biochemistry of the Romanian Academy, 296 Splaiul Independentei, 060031 Bucharest, Romania; (M.I.); (P.E.F.); (A.R.)
| | - Anca Roseanu
- The Institute of Biochemistry of the Romanian Academy, 296 Splaiul Independentei, 060031 Bucharest, Romania; (M.I.); (P.E.F.); (A.R.)
| | - Mihaela Trif
- The Institute of Biochemistry of the Romanian Academy, 296 Splaiul Independentei, 060031 Bucharest, Romania; (M.I.); (P.E.F.); (A.R.)
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Yang R, Liu C, Li Q, Wang W, Wu B, Chen A, Wang B, Li W, Chen J. Artificial intelligence based identification of the functional role of hirudin in diabetic erectile dysfunction treatment. Pharmacol Res 2021; 163:105244. [PMID: 33053440 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.105244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Revised: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Diabetic erectile dysfunction (DED) hugely affected the patients' sexual life quality. However, there are no satisfactory therapeutic methods and intervention targets for this subtype of erectile dysfunction (ED). Inspired by the clinical practice of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), we found that hirudin, the main active ingredient in the leech, could ameliorate the ED symptoms of the DED mouse model. To further reveal the underlying mechanism of hirudin, we designed a novel strategy to discover potential targets based on the diagnostic system of TCM, and found that myeloperoxidase (MPO) was a promising target of hirudin. Hirudin directly interacts with MPO and inhibits its activity, thus further decreases the content of oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) in serum. Our results demonstrated that the hirudin could ameliorate the symptoms of DED, and revealed the underlying mechanism of hirudin in regulating the activity of MPO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruocong Yang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, 100029, China
| | - Chao Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Qianqian Li
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, 100029, China
| | - Weilu Wang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, 100029, China
| | - Bingbing Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Aiping Chen
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, 100029, China
| | - Bin Wang
- Department of Andrology, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100700, China.
| | - Wei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.
| | - Jianxin Chen
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, 100029, China.
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Cipollaro L, Trucillo P, Bragazzi NL, Della Porta G, Reverchon E, Maffulli N. Liposomes for Intra-Articular Analgesic Drug Delivery in Orthopedics: State-of-Art and Future Perspectives. Insights from a Systematic Mini-Review of the Literature. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 56:medicina56090423. [PMID: 32825518 PMCID: PMC7557801 DOI: 10.3390/medicina56090423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Revised: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Background and objectives: Liposomal structures are artificial vesicles composed of one or several lamellae of phospholipids which surround an inner aqueous core. Given the amphoteric nature of phospholipids, liposomes are promising systems for drug delivery. The present review provides an updated synthesis of the main techniques for the production of liposomes for orthopedic applications, focusing on the drawbacks of the conventional methods and on the advantages of high pressure techniques. Materials and Methods: Articles published in any language were systematically retrieved from two major electronic scholarly databases (PubMed/MEDLINE and Scopus) up to March 2020. Nine articles were retained based on the “Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses” (PRISMA) guidelines. Results: Liposome vesicles decrease the rate of inflammatory reactions after local injections, and significantly enhance the clinical effectiveness of anti-inflammatory agents providing controlled drug release, reducing toxic side effects. Conclusions: This review presents an update on the improvement in musculoskeletal ailments using liposome treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucio Cipollaro
- Department of Musculoskeletal Disorders, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Salerno, Via San Leonardo 1, 84131 Salerno, Italy;
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, Via S. Allende, 84081 Baronissi (SA), Italy;
| | - Paolo Trucillo
- Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II, 84084 Salerno, Italy; (P.T.); (E.R.)
- Department of Chemical, Material and Industrial Production Engineering, University of Naples Federico II, Piazzale V. Tecchio, 80-80125 Napoli, Italy
| | - Nicola Luigi Bragazzi
- Laboratory for Industrial and Applied Mathematics (LIAM), Department of Mathematics and Statistics, York University, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada;
- Postgraduate School of Public Health, Department of Health Sciences (DISSAL), University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Giovanna Della Porta
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, Via S. Allende, 84081 Baronissi (SA), Italy;
- Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II, 84084 Salerno, Italy; (P.T.); (E.R.)
| | - Ernesto Reverchon
- Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II, 84084 Salerno, Italy; (P.T.); (E.R.)
| | - Nicola Maffulli
- Department of Musculoskeletal Disorders, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Salerno, Via San Leonardo 1, 84131 Salerno, Italy;
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, Via S. Allende, 84081 Baronissi (SA), Italy;
- Centre for Sports and Exercise Medicine, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Mile End Hospital, Queen Mary University of London, 275 Bancroft Road, London E1 4DG, UK
- School of Pharmacy and Bioengineering, Guy Hilton Research Centre, Keele University School of Medicine, Thornburrow Drive, Stoke on Trent ST4 7QB, UK
- Correspondence:
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Shakouri A, Wollina U. Time to Change Theory; Medical Leech from a Molecular Medicine Perspective Leech Salivary Proteins Playing a Potential Role in Medicine. Adv Pharm Bull 2020; 11:261-266. [PMID: 33880347 PMCID: PMC8046405 DOI: 10.34172/apb.2021.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Revised: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Followed by developing modern medicine, leeches did not have extensive use as before; however, in the late 19th century, they were still used in most countries all over the world. Thus far, leeches were utilized in treating various diseases like skin disorders, arthritis, and cancer. In Egypt, using leeches for treatment dates back to early 1500 BC. A medical leech’s salivary glands involve over 100 bioactive proteins and the salivary gland secretion contains bacteriostatic, analgesic, and anticoagulation influences; with resolving activity, it causes microcirculation disorders elimination, restoring the hurt vascular permeability of organs and tissues, removing hypoxia, decreasing blood pressure and detoxifying the organism by antioxidant paths. The current work reviews the innovative treatment with medical leech, especially proteins in leech saliva extraction (LSE) with high potential in medicine. The virtue of salivary gland secretions which are proteinaceous enzymes, leech acts on various diseases such as venous congestion in reconstructive and plastic surgery, osteoarthritis, cardiovascular diseases caused by blood coagulation disorders, pain management, priapism, macroglossia, cancer complications, wounds and many other. To confirm the potential therapeutic impacts of leech treatment, more studies are required in more extensive areas with more exact methodologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Shakouri
- Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Uwe Wollina
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, Academic Teaching Hospital Dresden-Friedrichstadt, Dresden, Germany
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Phytopharmacological Possibilities of Bird Cherry Prunus padus L. and Prunus serotina L. Species and Their Bioactive Phytochemicals. Nutrients 2020; 12:nu12071966. [PMID: 32630652 PMCID: PMC7399899 DOI: 10.3390/nu12071966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Wild cherry is a plant observed in the form of trees or shrubs. This species comprises about twenty kinds of plants and the most popular are two, Prunus padus L. and Prunus serotina L., whose properties and content of phytochemical compounds are subject to studies. Wild cherry contains many active compounds, including tocopherols, vitamins, polyphenols and terpenes, which can have beneficial effects on health. On the other hand, wild cherry contains cyanogenic glycosides. Nevertheless, current research results indicate pro-health properties associated with both P. serotina and P. padus. The aim of this study was to collect and present the current state of knowledge about wild cherry and to review available in vitro and in vivo studies concerning its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antidiabetic activity. Moreover, the current work presents and characterizes phytochemical content in the leaves, bark and fruits of P. padus and P. serotina and compiles data that indicate their health-promoting and functional properties and possibilities of using them to improve health. We find that the anatomical parts of P. padus and P. serotina can be a valuable raw material used in the food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries as a source of bioactive compounds with multi-directional action.
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Shakouri A, Parvan R, Adljouy N, Abdolalizadeh J. Purification of hyaluronidase as an anticancer agent inhibiting CD44. Biomed Chromatogr 2019; 34:e4709. [PMID: 31630417 DOI: 10.1002/bmc.4709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2019] [Revised: 09/03/2019] [Accepted: 09/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Hyaluronidase (Hyal) can be employed to accomplish a diversity of complications related to hyaluronic acid (HA). Hyal contains some classes of catalysts that cleave HA. This enzyme is detected in several human tissues as well as in animal venoms, pathogenic organisms and cancers. Destructive cancer cells regularly increase the CD44 receptor existing in a cell membrane. This receptor acts as an exact receptor for HA, and HA is recognized to motivate the migration, spread, attack and metastasis of cancer cells. Nearly all of the methods used to purify Hyal are highly costly and not proper for industrial applications. This survey aims to review different methods of Hyal purification, which acts as an anticancer agent by degrading HA in tissues and thus inhibiting the CD44-HA interaction. Hyal can be successfully employed in the management of cancer, which is associated with HA-CD44. This review has described different methods for Hyal purification to prepare an origin to develop a novel purification technique for this highly appreciated protein. Using multiple columns is not applicable for the purification of Hyal and thus cannot be used at the industrial level. It is better to use affinity chromatography of anti-Hyal for Hyal with one-step purification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Shakouri
- Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Reza Parvan
- Biotechnology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Nasim Adljouy
- Biotechnology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Jalal Abdolalizadeh
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Paramedical Faculty, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Symptomatic knee osteoarthritis (OA) involves millions of adults around the world. PURPOSE To analyze the effectiveness and tolerability of topical therapies and their contemporary placement in knee OA management criteria. METHODS A Cochrane Library and PubMed (MEDLINE) search related to the role of topical therapies in knee OA was carried out. RESULTS Many types of local therapy have been reported, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like diclofenac and ketoprofen; capsaicin, cream containing glucosamine sulfate, chondroitin sulfate, and camphor; nimesulide; civamide cream 0.075%; menthol; drug-free gel containing ultra-deformable phospholipid vesicles (TDT 064); 4Jointz utilizing Acteev technology; herbal therapies; gel of medical leech (Hirudo medicinalis) saliva extract; and gel prepared using Lake Urmia mud. One systematic review showed that topical diclofenac and topical ketoprofen can alleviate pain. However, another systematic review found that topical diclofenac and ketoprofen had limited efficacy in knee OA at 6 to 12 weeks. Many studies with a low level of evidence have reported some pain mitigation using the rest of aforementioned topical therapies. CONCLUSIONS Although some controversy exists on the role of topical NSAIDs, current management guidelines advise topical NSAIDs as an option and even first-line therapy for knee OA treatment, particularly among elderly patients. Topical NSAIDs may be contemplated as similar options to oral NSAIDs and are associated with fewer gastrointestinal complications when compared with oral NSAIDs. Caution should be taken with the use of both topical and oral NSAIDs, including close adherence to dosing regimens and monitoring, especially for patients with previous complications of NSAIDs. The role of other topical therapies needs further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- E C Rodriguez-Merchan
- a Department of Orthopaedic Surgery , La Paz University Hospital-IdiPaz , Madrid , Spain
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