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Zheng S, Xue C, Li S, Zao X, Li X, Liu Q, Cao X, Wang W, Qi W, Du H, Zhang P, Ye Y. Liver cirrhosis: current status and treatment options using western or traditional Chinese medicine. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1381476. [PMID: 39081955 PMCID: PMC11286405 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1381476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver cirrhosis arises from liver fibrosis and necroinflammation caused by various mechanisms of hepatic injury. It is a prevalent condition in clinical practice characterized by hepatocellular dysfunction, portal hypertension, and associated complications. Despite its common occurrence, the etiology and pathogenesis of liver cirrhosis remain incompletely understood, posing a significant health threat. Effective prevention of its onset and progression is paramount in medical research. Symptoms often include discomfort in the liver area, while complications such as sarcopenia, hepatic encephalopathy, ascites, upper gastrointestinal bleeding, and infection can arise. While the efficacy of Western medicine in treating liver cirrhosis is uncertain, Chinese medicine offers distinct advantages. This review explores advancements in liver cirrhosis treatment encompassing non-pharmacological and pharmacological modalities. Chinese medicine interventions, including Chinese medicine decoctions, Chinese patent medicines, and acupuncture, exhibit notable efficacy in cirrhosis reversal and offer improved prognoses. Nowadays, the combination of Chinese and Western medicine in the treatment of liver cirrhosis also has considerable advantages, which is worthy of further research and clinical promotion. Standardized treatment protocols based on these findings hold significant clinical implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shihao Zheng
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Chengyuan Xue
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Size Li
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaobin Zao
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education and Beijing, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoke Li
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Liver Diseases Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Qiyao Liu
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xu Cao
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Liver Diseases Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Wenying Qi
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Hongbo Du
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Liver Diseases Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Peng Zhang
- Dongfang Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yongan Ye
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Liver Diseases Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
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He XY, Xiong XJ, Liu MJ, Liang JT, Liu FY, Xiao JY, Wu LJ. Dahuang Zhechong Pill Alleviates Liver Fibrosis Progression by Regulating p38 MAPK/NF-κ B/TGF-β1 Pathway. Chin J Integr Med 2024:10.1007/s11655-024-3801-x. [PMID: 38888716 DOI: 10.1007/s11655-024-3801-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore the effect and mechanism of Dahuang Zhechong Pill (DHZCP) on liver fibrosis. METHODS Liver fibrosis cell model was induced by transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) in hepatic stellate cells (HSC-T6). DHZCP medicated serum (DMS) was prepared in rats. HSC-T6 cells were divided into the control (15% normal blank serum culture), TGF-β (15% normal blank serum + 5 ng/mL TGF-β), DHZCP (15% DMS + 5 ng/mL TGF-β), DHZCP+PDTC [15% DMS + 4 mmol/L ammonium pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate (PDTC)+ 5 ng/mL TGF-β], and PDTC groups (4 mmol/L PDTC + 5 ng/mL TGF-β). Cell activity was detected by cell counting kit 8 and levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) in the cell supernatant were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbnent assay. Western blot was used to measure the expressions of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase/nuclear factor kappa B/transforming growth factor-β1 (p38 MAPK/NF-κ B/TGF-β1) pathway related proteins, and the localization and expressions of these proteins were observed by immunofluorescence staining. RESULTS DHZCP improves the viability of cells damaged by TGF-β and reduces inflammatory cytokines and ALT and AST levels in the supernatant of HSC-T6 cells induced with TGF-β (P<0.05 or P<0.01). Compared with the TGF-β group, NF-κ B p65 levels in the DHZCP group were decreased (P<0.05). p38 MAPK and NF-κ B p65 levels in the DHZCP+PDTC were also reduced (P<0.01). Compared with the TGF-β group, the protein expression of Smad2 showed a downward trend in the DHZCP, DHZCP+PDTC, and PDTC groups (all P<0.01), and the decreasing trend of Samd3 was statistically significant only in DHZCP+PDTC group (P<0.01), whereas Smad7 was increased (P<0.05 or P<0.01). CONCLUSION DHZCP can inhibit the process of HSC-T6 cell fibrosis by down-regulating the expression of p38 MAPK/NF-κ B/TGF-β1 pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Yan He
- School of Public Health, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610036, China
| | - Xiao-Jiao Xiong
- Department of Neurology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610072, China
| | - Mei-Jun Liu
- Department of Neurology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610072, China
| | - Jing-Tao Liang
- Department of Neurology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610072, China
| | - Fu-You Liu
- Department of Neurology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610072, China
| | - Jing-Yi Xiao
- School of Public Health, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610036, China
| | - Li-Juan Wu
- School of Public Health, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610036, China.
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Fu C, Zhang Y, Xi WJ, Xu K, Meng F, Ma T, Li W, Wu L, Chen Z. Dahuang Zhechong pill attenuates hepatic sinusoidal capillarization in liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma rat model via the MK/integrin signaling pathway. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 308:116191. [PMID: 36731809 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116191] [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: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 01/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Dahuang Zhechong pill (DHZCP), a traditional Chinese medicine, was derived from the famous book Unk "Synopsis of Prescriptions of the Golden Chamber" during the Han dynasty. Owing to its ability to invigorate the circulation of blood in Chinese medicine, DHZCP is usually used for treating liver cirrhosis (LC) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Clinical application have shown that DHZCP exhibits satisfactory therapeutic effects in HCC adjuvant therapy; however, little is known about its underlying mechanisms. AIM OF THE STUDY We aimed to clarify the mechanism of DHZCP against hepatic sinusoidal capillarization in rats with LC and HCC by inhibiting the MK/integrin signaling pathway of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs). MATERIALS AND METHODS The contents of 29 characteristic components in DHZCP were determined by ultraperformance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. DEN (Diethylnitrosamine)-induced LC and HCC rat models were constructed, and DHZCP was administered when the disease entered the LC stage. After 4 or 12 weeks of administration, hematoxylin and eosin staining, Masson staining, Metavir score, and SSCP (Single strand conformation polymorphism) gene mutation detection were used to confirm tissue fibrosis and cancer. The levels of NO, ET-1 and TXA2, which can regulate vasomotor functions and activate the MK/Itgα6/Src signaling pathway were evaluated by using immunohistochemistry, chemiluminescence, immunofluorescence, Western blot analysis, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Similar methods were also used to evaluate the levels of VEGF, VEGFR, Ang-2 and Tie, which can promote pathological angiogenesis and activate the MK/Itgα4/NF-κB signaling pathway. In vitro cell experiments were performed using potential pharmacodynamic molecules targeting integrins in DHZCP were selected by molecular docking, and the effects of these molecules on the function of LSECs were studied by Itgα4+ and Itgα6+ cell models. RESULTS At the stage of LC, the animal experiments demonstrated that DHZCP mainly inhibited the MK/Itgα6 signaling pathway to increase the number and size of hepatic sinus fenestration, reversed the ET-1/NO and TXA2/NO ratios, regulated hepatic sinus relaxation and contraction balance, reduced the portal vein pressure, and inhibited cirrhotic carcinogenesis. At the HCC stage, DHZCP could also significantly inhibit the MK/Itgα4 signaling pathway, reduce pathological angiogenesis, and alleviate disease progression. The results of the cell experiments showed that Rhein, Naringenin, Liquiritin and Emodin-8-O-β-D-glucoside (PMEG) were involved in vascular regulation by affecting the MK/integrin signaling pathway. Liquiritin and PMEG mainly blocked the MK/α6 signal, which is important in regulating the vasomotor function of the liver sinus. Naringenin and Rhein mainly acted by blocked the signaling of MK/α4 action signal, which are potent molecules that inhibit pathological angiogenesis. CONCLUSIONS DHZCP could improve the hepatic sinusoidal capillarization of LC and HCC by inhibiting the MK/Itgα signaling pathway and inhibited disease progression. Rhein, Naringenin, Liquiritin and PMEG were the main active molecules that affected the MK/Itgα signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuankui Fu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China.
| | - Yiheng Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China.
| | - Wen Jie Xi
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China.
| | - Kejia Xu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China.
| | - Fansheng Meng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China.
| | - Tianle Ma
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China.
| | - Weidong Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China; Engineering Center of State Ministry of Education for Standardization of Chinese Medicine Processing, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China.
| | - Li Wu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China; Engineering Center of State Ministry of Education for Standardization of Chinese Medicine Processing, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China.
| | - Zhipeng Chen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China; Engineering Center of State Ministry of Education for Standardization of Chinese Medicine Processing, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China.
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Ye Z, Huang Q, She Y, Hu Y, Wu M, Qin K, Li L, Zhang C, Zuo X, Wei A, Mao D, Ye Q. A meritorious integrated medical regimen for hepatic fibrosis and its complications via the systematic review and meta-analysis for Dahuang Zhechong pill-based therapy. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:920062. [PMID: 36314011 PMCID: PMC9616118 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.920062] [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: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatic fibrosis is a health challenge due to the absence of satisfactory therapy, especially at the cirrhosis stage. Dahuang Zhechong pill (DHZCP)-based therapy is reportedly a successful treatment for hepatic fibrosis and is even beneficial for the treatment of cirrhosis. Hence, a systematic review and clinical evidence assessment of DHZCP-based therapy should be performed, and clinical recommendations based on its efficacy for the treatment of hepatic fibrosis should be generated. With respect to potential indicators, the comparative value of the hepatic function, spleen thickness, and portal vein internal diameter should be evaluated. Materials and methods PubMed, the Excerpta Medica Database, the Cochrane Library, the Web of Science, the WanFang Database, the Chinese Scientific Journal Database, and the Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure database were searched to identify clinical trials. Three subgroup analyses were performed based on the stage of disease, medication use, and the course of treatment. Statistical analyses were performed using Review Manager 5.4. Results A total of 18 studies including 1,494 patients were evaluated. The DHZCP-based therapy was effective in reducing the plasma levels of hyaluronic acid, and laminin, procollagen III, and IV collagen were also reduced irrespective of the hepatitis stage or the presence of hepatic cirrhosis. Abnormalities in alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, albumin, and total bilirubin were reversed. A 6-month course of treatment was the most beneficial DHZCP-based therapy regimen. Alanine aminotransferase improvement was more obvious in patients with cirrhosis, and alanine aminotransferase was reduced significantly in patients with hepatic cirrhosis. With respect to pharmacological mechanisms, DHZCP-based therapy could inhibit hepatic stellate cell growth and activation, reduce inflammation, and prevent extracellular matrix formation. Hepatic portal hypertension and splenomegaly were ameliorated significantly in the DHZCP-based therapy group. Conclusion Dahuang Zhechong pill-based therapy has demonstrated efficacy as a treatment for hepatic fibrosis and cirrhosis. A 6-month course of treatment is the recommended option for DHZCP-based therapy in clinical practice. The combination of DHZCP-based therapy and entecavir is a favorable treatment for hepatic cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Ye
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Qinfeng Huang
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China
| | - Yingqi She
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Yu Hu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Mingquan Wu
- Department of Pharmacy, Sichuan Orthopedic Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Kaihua Qin
- Health Preservation and Rehabilitation College, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Linzhen Li
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Chuantao Zhang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiaohong Zuo
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Ailing Wei
- Department of Liver Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China
| | - Dewen Mao
- Department of Liver Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China
| | - Qiaobo Ye
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China,*Correspondence: Qiaobo Ye,
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Dai YK, Fan HN, Hu YH, Zhao ZM, Liu C. Comparison on different traditional Chinese medicine therapies for chronic hepatitis B liver fibrosis. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:943063. [PMID: 36034853 PMCID: PMC9399442 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.943063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims: Although different kinds of traditional Chinese medicines could reportedly improve the efficacy of antiviral therapy on liver fibrosis caused by HBV, the problem of clinicians on how to choose the appropriate treatment strategies for the patients fails to be solved. This study aims at comparing and ranking different traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) therapies in the treatment of liver fibrosis due to chronic hepatitis B (CHB). Methods: Eight electronic databases were searched from their establishment to 17 Aug 2021. All included data and pooled odds ratio were used for network meta-analysis (NMA) and statistical analysis. The consistency was evaluated by the node-splitting analysis. The stability of results and source of heterogeneity were tested by sensitivity analysis. Different treatment strategies (regimens) in this network meta-analysis were ranked with the aid of surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) probability value. Results: A total of 29 articles with 3,106 sufferers were recruited in this NMA. Results of SUCRA value rankings indicated that Fuzheng Huayu therapy or combined with entecavir had preferable effects in improving the clinical efficacy, recovering the level of hyaluronic acid, IV-C, ALT, ALB, and TBil, relieving the TCM symptoms including hypochondriac pain and poor appetite, regaining the width of portal vein and thickness of spleen, and lessening side effects. Apart from these, Ziyin Shugan therapy or combined with ETV could also be suitable to regain the level of laminin, PC-III, and AST, relieve fatigue and HBV-DNA conversion. Conclusion: This NMA confirmed the efficacy and safety of different treatment therapies for improving CHB liver fibrosis, including the serum biomarkers of live fibrosis and serum parameters for liver function, TCM symptoms, imaging indexes, HBV-DNA conversion rate, which offered the TCM practitioners crucial reference value on clinical medication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun-kai Dai
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hai-na Fan
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yong-hong Hu
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhi-min Zhao
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Chenghai Liu, ; Zhi-min Zhao,
| | - Chenghai Liu
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases, Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Chenghai Liu, ; Zhi-min Zhao,
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Inflammatory Cytokines, Adipocytokines, and Th17/Treg Balance in Patients with Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease following Administration of Dahuang Zhechong Pills. Genet Res (Camb) 2022; 2022:8560831. [PMID: 35069014 PMCID: PMC8759922 DOI: 10.1155/2022/8560831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives. The occurrence and development of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is related to lipid peroxidation, imbalance of inflammatory response factors, and immune function disorder. This study was conducted with the purpose of investigating the expression levels of inflammatory cytokines and adipocytokines and Th17/Treg balance in NAFLD patients treated with Dahuang Zhechong pills (DHZCPs). Methods. The study recruited 100 NAFLD patients who were then arranged into the test group and control group. Patients in the test group were treated with DHZCPs, while patients in the control group were untreated. Peripheral TH17 and Treg cells were detected by flow cytometry, and peripheral IL-17, IL-10, hs-CRP, and TNF-α expression levels were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) methods. The concentrations of ghrelin, leptin, and adiponectin were quantitatively examined. Results. The levels of TC, TG, ALT, and AST were declined but the level of HDL-C was increased in NAFLD patients treated with DHZCPs compared with untreated patients (
). The ratio of Th17/Treg in NAFLD patients treated with DHZCPs was (1.52 ± 0.21), which was significantly lower than (2.39 ± 0.45) of untreated patients (
). The levels of IL-17, hs-CRP, and TNF-α were lower, but the level of IL-10 was higher in NAFLD patients treated with DHZCPs than that in untreated patients (
). The expression levels of ghrelin and adiponectin in NAFLD patients treated with DHZCPs were evidently higher than those in untreated patients (
), and the expression level of leptin in NAFLD patients treated with DHZCPs was evidently lower than that in untreated patients (
). Conclusions. Administration of DHZCPs regulates the immune function of NAFLD patients by keeping Th17/Treg balance and affecting the levels of inflammatory cytokines and adipocytokines.
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Zhou L, Wang D, Qiu X, Zhang W, Gong Z, Wang Y, Xu X. DHZCP Modulates Microglial M1/M2 Polarization via the p38 and TLR4/NF-κB Signaling Pathways in LPS-Stimulated Microglial Cells. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:1126. [PMID: 32848745 PMCID: PMC7406685 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.01126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is a disease with a significantly high rate of morbidity, mortality and disability. Inhibition of inflammation is considered a potential strategy for improving the clinical symptoms induced by ICH. The hallmark of neuroinflammation is microglial activation. Microglia can polarize into either the classically activated M1 (proinflammatory) phenotype, exacerbating neuronal damage, or the alternatively activated M2 (antiinflammatory) phenotype, exerting neuroprotection and promoting neuronal recovery. Promoting microglial polarization to the M2 phenotype may be a viable strategy for treating neuroinflammation. Several studies have indicated that promoting blood circulation and removing blood stasis exhibits therapeutic effects on intracerebral hemorrhage. Dahuang Zhechong Pill (DHZCP), a classical recipe that promotes blood circulation and removes blood stasis, has been reported to improve the clinical outcome of ICH. DHZCP has been shown to exert antiinflammatory effects. However, the detailed antiinflammatory mechanism of DHZCP in ICH has rarely been investigated. In this study, DHZCP inhibited lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced M1 microglial activation. DHZCP exerted antiinflammatory effects, by inhibiting LPS-induced M1 proinflammatory cytokine (TNF-α and IL-6), and iNOS production and increasing M2 antiinflammatory cytokine (IL-10) production. DHZCP also switched microglial polarization from M1 to M2, as indicated by significantly increased expression of M2 polarization markers (CD209, and CD206) and markedly decreased expression of an M1 polarization marker (CD54). In addition, DHZCP inhibited p38 and TLR4/NF-κB signaling activation, as demonstrated by inhibition of LPS-induced increases in p-p38, TLR4 and nuclear factor kappa B p-65 (NF-κB p-65) protein expression. Taken together, DHZCP modulates microglial M1/M2 polarization via the p38 and TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathways to confer antiinflammatory effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Zhou
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Dongsheng Wang
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xinjian Qiu
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Weiru Zhang
- Department of General Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zhicheng Gong
- Department of Pharmacy, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yang Wang
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xia Xu
- Department of General Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Department of Pharmacy, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
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Zhuang T, Gu X, Zhou N, Ding L, Yang L, Zhou M. Hepatoprotection and hepatotoxicity of Chinese herb Rhubarb (Dahuang): How to properly control the "General (Jiang Jun)" in Chinese medical herb. Biomed Pharmacother 2020; 127:110224. [PMID: 32559851 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2020.110224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2020] [Revised: 04/29/2020] [Accepted: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Chinese herb Rhubarb (Dahuang), one of the most widely used traditional Chinese medicine in clinical application for over a thousand years and known as the "General (Jiang Jun)" in Chinese medical herb, currently used clinically for long-term treatment of gastrointestinal diseases and chronic liver diseases. Through previous researches, it has been identified that Rhubarb possessed a good hepatoprotective effect, which primarily protected liver from oxidation, fibrosis and cirrhosis, liver failure, hepatocellular carcinoma and various types of hepatitis. Meanwhile, it has been recently reported that long-term administration of Rhubarb preparation may undertake the risk of liver damage, which has aroused worldwide doubts about the safety of Rhubarb. Therefore, how to correctly understand the "two-way" effect of Rhubarb on liver protection and liver toxicity provides a basis for scientific evaluation of Rhubarb's efficacy on liver and side effects, as well as guiding clinical rational drug use. In this review, the mechanisms of Rhubarb how to play a role in hepatoprotection and why it causes hepatotoxic potential will be elaborated in detail and critically. In addition, some positive clinical guidances are also advised on how to reduce its hepatotoxicity in medical treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tongxi Zhuang
- Center for Chinese Medicine Therapy and Systems Biology, Institute for Interdisciplinary Medicine Sciences, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Complex Prescriptions and MOE Key Laboratory for Standardization of Chinese Medicines, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Xinyi Gu
- Center for Chinese Medicine Therapy and Systems Biology, Institute for Interdisciplinary Medicine Sciences, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China; School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Nian Zhou
- Center for Chinese Medicine Therapy and Systems Biology, Institute for Interdisciplinary Medicine Sciences, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Lili Ding
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Complex Prescriptions and MOE Key Laboratory for Standardization of Chinese Medicines, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Li Yang
- Center for Chinese Medicine Therapy and Systems Biology, Institute for Interdisciplinary Medicine Sciences, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Complex Prescriptions and MOE Key Laboratory for Standardization of Chinese Medicines, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Mingmei Zhou
- Center for Chinese Medicine Therapy and Systems Biology, Institute for Interdisciplinary Medicine Sciences, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
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Chen F, Zhong Z, Tan HY, Guo W, Zhang C, Tan CW, Li S, Wang N, Feng Y. Uncovering the Anticancer Mechanisms of Chinese Herbal Medicine Formulas: Therapeutic Alternatives for Liver Cancer. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:293. [PMID: 32256363 PMCID: PMC7093640 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2019] [Accepted: 02/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The potential values of Chinese herbal formulas in treating various diseases are well known. In addition to more than 2,000 years of history, herbal medicine is appreciated for its remarkable efficacy in a lot of cases, which warrants a role in public health care worldwide, especially in East Asian countries. Liver cancer is the second most fatal cancer across the world. Recent studies have extensively investigated the chemical profiles and pharmacological effects of Chinese herbal medicine formulas on liver cancer. Either through observational follow-up or experimental studies, multiple herbal formulas have benefits implicated in the management of liver cancer. However, complex composition of each formula imposes restrictions on promoting clinical practice and global recognition. Therefore, understanding the mode of action of Chinese herbal medicine formulas in depth may offer sufficient evidence for their clinical use. This review highlighted the chemical characteristics and molecular mechanisms of actions of prominent Chinese herbal medicine formulas and summarized the correlated findings on the potential use in liver cancer treatment. At last, the present progresses of Chinese herbal medicine formulas in the perspective of clinical trials are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feiyu Chen
- School of Chinese Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Zhangfeng Zhong
- School of Chinese Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Hor Yue Tan
- School of Chinese Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Wei Guo
- School of Chinese Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Cheng Zhang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Chi-Wing Tan
- School of Chinese Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Sha Li
- School of Chinese Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Ning Wang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Yibin Feng
- School of Chinese Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
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10
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Li H. Advances in anti hepatic fibrotic therapy with Traditional Chinese Medicine herbal formula. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2020; 251:112442. [PMID: 31891799 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2019.112442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2019] [Revised: 11/27/2019] [Accepted: 11/27/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE The process of liver fibrogenesis includes a number of common and etiology-dependent or independent mechanisms and events. Up to now, there are still insufficient approved biological or chemical therapies directly targeting and reversing advanced fibrosis. The key is that once liver fibrosis is triggered, it presents a complex network control model with the activation of HSCs as the core, resulting in poor efficacy of treatment. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has unique advantages in treating hepatic fibrosis because of its syndrome differentiation and treatment and comprehensive pharmacological effects of multi-channel, multi-level and multi-target. However, TCM's advantages were rarely discussed as previous reviews focused on the active ingredients of TCM and single Chinese Medicine. Therefore, this paper focuses on TCM herbal formulae's pharmacological role, target and related mechanisms in the treatment of liver fibrosis. AIM OF THE STUDY This paper will focus on the pharmacological role, target and related mechanisms of TCM herbal formulae in the treatment of liver fibrosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS We collect English literatures or Chinese literatures with English Abstract on the treatment of liver fibrosis with TCM herbal formulae from databases including PubMed, Wiley InterScience, Science Direct OnSite/Elsevier, Ovid, Excerpta Medica Database, SpringLink, CNKI and China Biomedical Literature Database. Based on previous literatures, we summarize the TCM herbal formulae with definite anti-hepatic fibrosis effects. RESULTS To some extent, classical or modern TCM herbal formulae including Yinchenhao Decoction (YCHD), Xiayuxue Decoction (XYXD), Xiaochaihutang (XCHT), Yiguanjian Decoction (YGJ), Huangqi Decoction (HQD), Dahuang Zhechong Pills (DHZC), Fuzheng Huayu Formula (FZHY), Fufang Biejia Ruangan Tablets (FFBJRG), Anluo Huaxian Pills (ALHX) and Compound 861 (Cpd861) have anti-hepatic fibrosis effect both on patients with liver fibrosis and animal models with liver fibrosis. CONCLUSION According to the principle of syndrome differentiation and treatment, Liver fibrosis patients with different syndromes are treated with different herbal formula, which increases the difficulty of clinical efficacy research. YCHD and XYXD research lack randomized and controlled clinical trials. XCHT, YGJ and HQD research has small sample sizes despite randomized and controlled clinical trials. In contrast, most modern herbal formulae have randomized and controlled clinical trials. For instance, FZHY and ALHX recently published the research results of the combination of entecavir in the treatment of patients with chronic hepatitis B liver fibrosis or cirrhosis. Compared to anti-viral treatment with entecavir alone, this method has improved the reversion rate of liver fibrosis but still needs syndrome classification therapy of TCM. TCM Herbal formulae have a good prospect in treating liver fibrosis, but its composition of multiple drugs and a wide range of targets intensify the difficulty of studying their anti-hepatic fibrosis mechanisms. Future research needs to further study the anti-hepatic fibrosis mechanisms and select corresponding TCM herbal formula to treat patients with different syndromes of liver fibrosis or the same patient with different syndromes at different stages to achieve better curative results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Li
- Central Laboratory, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, NO. 39 Shi-er-qiao Road, Chengdu, 610072, Sichuan Province, PR China.
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11
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Ni ZH, Wu L, Cao KX, Zhang XQ, Wang DY, Zeng YW, Liang LL, Qiu XD, Guo RS, Cheng HB, Chen ZP. Investigation of the pharmacodynamic substances in dahuang zhechong pill that inhibit energy metabolism. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2020; 251:112332. [PMID: 31669443 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2019.112332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2019] [Revised: 10/17/2019] [Accepted: 10/21/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Dahuang Zhechong pill (DHZCP) is a commonly used traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of hepatocarcinoma. AIM OF THE STUDY Previous studies have found that DHZCP can exert anti-hepatocarcinoma effects and reverse drug resistance by inhibiting energy metabolism. The goal of this study was to further explore the pharmacodynamic substances that inhibit energy metabolism. METHODS The components of DHZCP absorbed into plasma were identified by UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS. The Swiss and STITCH databases were used for target collection. The DAVID database was used for pathway enrichment analysis. Cytoscape software was used for network construction. The CCK-8 method detected cell viability. Chemiluminescence was used to detect ATP levels. RESULTS A total of 89 components absorbed into plasma were identified by UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS. Based on this, 24 potential pharmacodynamic substances were selected by network pharmacology. Among them, 11 components such as rhein can significantly inhibit ATP levels. CONCLUSIONS Rhein, emodin, chrysophanol, hypoxanthine, baicalein, baicalin, wogonoside, acteoside, formononetin, isoliquiritigenin, and glycyrrhizic acid were the pharmacodynamic substances responsible for inhibition of energy metabolism of DHZCP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zi Hui Ni
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Li Wu
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Ke Xin Cao
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Xi Qiong Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Dan Yu Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Yu Wei Zeng
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Lin Lin Liang
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Xian Dan Qiu
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Run Sheng Guo
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Hai Bo Cheng
- The First Clinical Medical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, China; Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine Prevention and Treatment of Tumor, Nanjing, China.
| | - Zhi Peng Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China; Engineering Center of State Ministry of Education for Standardization of Chinese Medicine Processing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
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12
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Wu L, Ni ZH, Xu YC, Zhang XQ, Du SL, Cao KX, Chen ZP, Li WD, Guo LB. Investigation on the Characteristic Components of Dahuang Zhechong Pill Based on High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) Fingerprint. Nat Prod Commun 2019. [DOI: 10.1177/1934578x19888079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Dahuang Zhechong Pill (DHZCP) has been widely used in the treatment of hepatocarcinoma in China. The aim of our study was to identify the characteristic components of DHZCP. First, HPLC fingerprint of DHZCP was established to analyze the common components of 14 batches of DHZCP samples, which were purchased from different manufacturers. The results of HPLC fingerprint detected 164 peaks in these 14 batches of DHZCP. Through similarity analysis, cluster analysis, and principal component analysis, we identified 20 common components upon which to conduct quantitative analysis conducted by an HPLC method. After that, a cytotoxicity test was carried out to screen the active components in DHZCP. The results showed that hypoxanthine, rhein, emodin, aloe emodin, and wogonin are the active components of DHZCP for the treatment of hepatocarcinoma, as they have significant inhibitory effect against the activity of drug-resistant hepatocarcinoma cells (SMMC-7721/DOX) than others.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Wu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Jiangsu, PR China
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Jiangsu, PR China
- China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Zi-Hui Ni
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Jiangsu, PR China
- China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Yun-Cong Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Jiangsu, PR China
- China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Xi-Qiong Zhang
- Engineering Center of State Ministry of Education for Standardization of Chinese Medicine Processing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Sha-Li Du
- Engineering Center of State Ministry of Education for Standardization of Chinese Medicine Processing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Ke-Xin Cao
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Jiangsu, PR China
- China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Zhi-Peng Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Jiangsu, PR China
- China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, PR China
- Engineering Center of State Ministry of Education for Standardization of Chinese Medicine Processing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Wei-Dong Li
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Jiangsu, PR China
- China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, PR China
- Engineering Center of State Ministry of Education for Standardization of Chinese Medicine Processing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Lu-Bo Guo
- Jinan Central Hospital, Shandong, PR China
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13
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Gong Z, Lin J, Zheng J, Wei L, Liu L, Peng Y, Liang W, Hu G. Dahuang Zhechong pill attenuates CCl4-induced rat liver fibrosis via the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. J Cell Biochem 2019; 121:1431-1440. [PMID: 31502329 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.29378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2018] [Accepted: 08/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
It is well characterized that activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) exert critical functions in accelerating the progression of liver fibrosis. Previous studies have indicated that Dahuang Zhechong pill (DHZCP), a traditional Chinese herbal medicine, is capable of inactivating HSCs and thus attenuate the formation of liver fibrosis in rats. However, pharmacological mechanisms of DHZCP in alleviating liver fibrosis remain unclear. This study aims to investigate the antifibrotic role of DHZCP through inhibiting the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)-protein kinase B (Akt) pathway. DHZCP was found to significantly suppresses extracellular matrix formation and immune cell infiltration, thus alleviating liver fibrosis symptoms in the in vivo model. Moreover, DHZCP reduced serum levels of transforming growth factor β1 and tumor necrosis factor-α in rats with liver fibrosis. DHZCP treatment remarkably downregulated protein levels of PI3K and phosphorylated Akt, as well as fibrosis markers. In vitro experiments further demonstrated that DHZCP markedly suppressed HSCs proliferation by downregulating PI3K/Akt, which exerted a synergistic effect with the PI3K inhibitor LY294002. To sum up, our results confirmed that DHZCP exerted an antifibrotic effect in the animal model through inactivating the PI3K/Akt pathway, thus protecting rats from liver injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenghua Gong
- Department of Ultrasound, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jiayu Lin
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Eighth Affiliated Hospital Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jie Zheng
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Liya Wei
- Department of Ultrasound, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Li Liu
- Department of Ultrasound, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yanzhong Peng
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Weicheng Liang
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Guoxin Hu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
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14
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Chen C, Yao X, Xu Y, Zhang Q, Wang H, Zhao L, Wen G, Liu Y, Jing L, Sun X. Dahuang Zhechong Pill suppresses colorectal cancer liver metastasis via ameliorating exosomal CCL2 primed pre-metastatic niche. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2019; 238:111878. [PMID: 30986521 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2019.111878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2018] [Revised: 04/03/2019] [Accepted: 04/10/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Dahuang Zhechong Pill (DZP) is a classical formula from "Synopsis of Prescriptions of the Golden Chamber". It has been used for treatment of abdominal masses (including tumorous diseases) for thousands of years. AIM OF THE STUDY Our previous work showed that DZP suppresses CCl-4 induced hepatic fibrosis by downregulating the expression of interleukin-13. We aimed to test if DZP suppresses the metastasis of colorectal cancer (CRC) by ameliorating the fibrosis status of the future metastatic organ. MATERIALS AND METHODS Liver metastasis was observed by injection of MC38-EGFP cells with stably expressing enhanced green fuorescence protein beneath the splenic capsule of C57BL/6J mice. MC38-EGFP-derived exosomes were analyzed by Label-free comparative proteomics. mRNA expression was determined by Quantitative PCR. Protein expression was determined by immunohistochemistry, immunofuorescence and Western blot. Collagen deposition was determined by Masson staining. All data were statistically analyzed using SPSS. RESULTS DZP drastically reduced the metastatic tumor number and fluorescence intensity in a splenic liver metastasis model. It also lowered the expression of mature TGF-β1 and decreased the fibronectin contents & collagen deposition. Exosome proteomics showed that the upregualted CC chemokine ligand-2 (CCL2) was repressed by DZP treatment. Importantly, DZP markedly lowered the expression of CCL2 and its receptor CCR2 in the liver. Exosomal CCL2 activated macrophage recruitment and shifted the M1/M2 paradigm to a M2 phenotype. DZP reduced the macrophage infiltration and attenuated the M2 polarizaion in tumor-bearing mice liver. It decreased the F4/80 positive areas and specifically reduced the ratio of CCR2+ positive macrophage. Anti-fibrosis and inhibition of CCR2 suppress the growth and metastasis of CRC. CONCLUSIONS DZP inhibits the liver metastasis of CRC by suppressing CCL2 mediated M2-skewing paradigm and ameliorating the pro-fibrotic microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunhui Chen
- The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China.
| | - Xueqing Yao
- Departmant of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, 510080, Guangdong, China.
| | - Yihua Xu
- The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China.
| | - Qingyuan Zhang
- The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China.
| | - Hao Wang
- The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China.
| | - Liang Zhao
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China.
| | - Ge Wen
- Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China.
| | - Yawei Liu
- Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China.
| | - Linlin Jing
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Integrated Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510315, Guangdong, China.
| | - Xuegang Sun
- The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China; Traditional Chinese Medicine Integrated Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510315, Guangdong, China.
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15
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Lin J, Deng C, Peng Y, Zheng J, Wei L, Shi Y, Gong Z, Hu G. Dynamic Changes in MMP1 and TIMP1 in the Antifibrotic Process of Dahuang Zhechong Pill in Rats with Liver Fibrosis. OPEN CHEM 2019. [DOI: 10.1515/chem-2019-0041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
AbstractOn the basis of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)induced liver fibrosis in rats, this study aims to investigate the dynamic changes in matrix metalloproteinase 1 (MMP1) and the tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 1 (TIMP1) in the antifibrotic process of Dahuang Zhechong Pill (DHZCP). A total of 50 male Sprague Dawley rats, aged 8 weeks, were randomly divided into 3 groups: the control group, the model group (the group treated with CCl4), and the treatment group (the group treated with CCl4 and DHZCP). Rats were sacrificed at Weeks 4 and 8. Liver tissues were separated for RNA sequencing and bioinformatics analysis. Real-time PCR, Western blot analysis, and histological staining were conducted to confirm the gene expression and pathological change in liver tissues. Compared with control group, rats in model group showed poor mental state and slow weight gain. The liver tissues of the rats in the model group exhibited a damaged hepatic lobule structure, fibrous connective tissue hyperplasia, and inflammatory cell infiltration among the hyperplastic tissues. DHZCP could significantly improve the appearance of rats and alleviate CCl4-induced fibrosis. Compared to model group, 798 differentially expressed mRNAs were found in the treatment group, of which 120 were up-regulated and 678 were down-regulated. Differentially expressed mRNAs between the CCl4-induced group and the DHZCP-treated group were mainly focused on the following KEGG pathways: focal adhesion, phagosome, tight junction, and ECM–receptor interactions. Relative to those in the control group, MMP1 was downregulated, whereas, TIMP1 and Col1A1 were upregulated in the CCl4-induced group at Weeks 4 and 8. DHZCP could reverse MMP1, TIMP1, and Col1A1 expression.DHZCP protects against liver injury and exerts an antifibrotic effect on liver fibrosis induced by CCl4 in rats. Its mechanism may be related to the upregulation of MMP1, downregulation of TIMP1, and promotion of collagen degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayu Lin
- Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou511436, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Eighth Affiliated Hospital Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen518033, China
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen518036, China
| | - Chaowen Deng
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen518036, China
| | - Yanzhong Peng
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen518036, China
| | - Jie Zheng
- Department of Intensive Care Unit, Southern Medical University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen518010, China
| | - Liya Wei
- Department of Ultrasound, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, 518036, China
| | - Yu Shi
- Department of Ultrasound, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, 518036, China
| | - Zhenghua Gong
- Department of Ultrasound, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, 518036, China
| | - Guoxin Hu
- Department of Ultrasound, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, 518036, China
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen518036, China
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16
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Wu L, Cao KX, Ni ZH, Li WD, Chen ZP, Cheng HB, Liu X. Effects of Dahuang zhechong pill on doxorubicin-resistant SMMC-7721 xenografts in mice. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2018; 222:71-78. [PMID: 29609009 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2018.03.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2018] [Revised: 03/28/2018] [Accepted: 03/29/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Dahuang zhechong pill (DHZCP) is a famous traditional Chinese medicinal prescription from the "Synopsis of Prescriptions of the Golden Chamber (Jin Kui Yao Lue)",Lue)", an ancient Chinese medical classic. DHZCP is commonly used for clinical treatment of liver cancer by promoting blood circulation to dissolve blood stasis and by removing pathogenic vegetations.vegetations. DHZCP-based treatment has been derived from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and is officially recorded in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia. AIM OF THE STUDY The aim of this study was to investigate the ability of DHZCP to reverse doxorubicin (DOX) resistance of SMMC-7721 cells in a xenograft mouse model, and to explore the underlying mechanisms. MATERIALS AND METHODS Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry was used to verify the composition of DHZCP. H&E staining was used to observe the pathological changes in hepatocellular carcinoma samples. Intracellular DOX accumulation was observed as intrinsic fluorescence by microscopy. Cell apoptosis was detected by the TUNEL assay. Human antibody arrays were used to analyze the expression of apoptotic- and angiogenic-related proteins. ATP levels were assessed and western blots were used to detect the protein expression of key enzymes of energy metabolism. RESULTS DHZCP significantly reduced the tumor volume and weight of subcutaneous xenografts of drug-resistant hepatoma cells, and combining DHZCP with lower doses of DOX significantly increased the content of DOX in tumor tissue, increased the apoptosis of hepatoma cells, and reversed Dox resistance. With respect to 43 apoptosis-associated proteins, DHZCP regulated the expression of 5 of them. When combined with low-dose DOX, the expression of 40 apoptosis-related proteins was significantly altered. With respect to 23 angiogenesis-associated proteins, DHZCP upregulated the expression of endostatin and inhibited the expression of matrix metallopeptidase 9. When combined with low-dose DOX, DHZCP significantly downregulated protein expression of urokinase receptor, as well as vascular endothelial growth factor receptors 2 and 3. Especially, DHZCP significantly inhibited the expression of key enzymes of the tricarboxylic acid cycle and of oxidative phosphorylation, reducing the level of ATP in tumor tissue. CONCLUSIONS DHZCP inhibited the growth of DOX-resistant hepatocellular carcinoma subcutaneous xenografts in nude mice and promoted increased apoptosis caused by DOX, thus reversing DOX resistance. This was associated with a decline in energy metabolism and regulated expression of pro-apoptotic proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Wu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China; Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Ke Xin Cao
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Zi Hui Ni
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Wei Dong Li
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China; Engineering Center of State Ministry of Education for Standardization of Chinese Medicine Processing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Zhi Peng Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China; Engineering Center of State Ministry of Education for Standardization of Chinese Medicine Processing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Hai Bo Cheng
- The First Clinical Medical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, China; Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine Prevention and Treatment of Tumor, Nanjing, China.
| | - Xiao Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China; Engineering Center of State Ministry of Education for Standardization of Chinese Medicine Processing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
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JIA YUJIE, YUAN LIJUN, XU TINGTING, LI HANSHU, YANG GUANG, JIANG MIAONA, ZHANG CAIHUA, LI CONG. Herbal medicine Gan-fu-kang downregulates Wnt/Ca2+ signaling to attenuate liver fibrogenesis in vitro and in vivo. Mol Med Rep 2016; 13:4705-14. [DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2016.5148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2015] [Accepted: 01/27/2016] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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