The anxiolytic effect of cinnabar involves changes of serotonin levels

A discovery in traditional Chinese medicine compatibility: Cinnabaris suppresses the Strychni Semen-induced neurotoxicity in Shang-Ke-Jie-Gu tablet

BACKGROUND

Cinnabaris, as a commonly used mineral drugs, is a classic sedative medicine. Shang-Ke-Jie-Gu tablet is a famous Chinese patent medicine with Cinnabaris, However, the function of Cin in the prescription hasn't been clarified.

PURPOSE

Our study evaluated the toxicity of Shang-Ke-Jie-Gu tablet (SK) with or without Cinnabaris, and illuminate the related mechanisms that why cinnabaris is necessary.

METHODS

The toxicity of SK and Cin free Shang-Ke-Jie-Gu tablet (CFSK) was evaluated by physical and behavioral tests and histological examinations. The detoxificaion mechanism of Cin on Strychni Semen (SS)-induced neurotoxicity in SK was performed based on the analysis of intestinal absorption, liver metabolism, serum metabolomics, and gut microbiota. The mercury accumulation of SK was assayed using human hair by ICP-MS.

RESULTS

Cin was found to inhibit the neurotoxicity of SS in SK. Our study shows that Cin could inhibit SS's absorption in small intestine and promote its metabolism in the liver. A serum metabolomics study showed that taurine and hypotaurine metabolism and retrograde endocannabinoid signaling pathway were associated with Cin attenuation. Association analysis with gut microbiota suggested that Cin could downregulate four key metabolites, including 12‑hydroxy arachidonic acid, GM4(d18:1/18:0), C16 sphinganine, and LysoPC(18:1(11Z)/0:0), by downregulating Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136 and upregulating Prevotella to inhibit the toxic effects of SS. In addition, the danger of mercury poisoning in a longer time administration of SK was evaluated using human hair, and no visible increase in mercury was observed.

CONCLUSION

As a new discovery in compatibility, Cin was proved to be capable of inhibiting the neurotoxicity not only in SK but also in Cin-SS combination, displaying vital roles in Traditional Chinese Medicines.

Mercuric sulfide nanoparticles suppress the neurobehavioral functions of Caenorhabditis elegans through a Skp1-dependent mechanism

Cinnabar is the naturally occurring mercuric sulfide (HgS) and concerns about its safety have been grown. However, the molecular mechanism of HgS-related neurotoxicity remains unclear. S-phase kinase-associated protein 1 (Skp1), identified as the target protein of HgS, plays a crucial role in the development of neurological diseases. This study aims to investigate the neurotoxic effects and molecular mechanism of HgS based on Skp1 using the Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) model. We prepared the HgS nanoparticles and conducted a comparative analysis of neurobehavioral differences in both wild-type C. elegans (N2) and a transgenic strain of C. elegans (VC1241) with a knockout of the SKP1 homologous gene after exposure to HgS nanoparticles. Our results showed that HgS nanoparticles could suppress locomotion, defecation, egg-laying, and associative learning behaviors in N2 C. elegans, while no significant alterations were observed in the VC1241 C. elegans. Furthermore, we conducted a 4D label-free proteomics analysis and screened 504 key proteins significantly affected by HgS nanoparticles through Skp1. These proteins play pivotal roles in various pathways, including SNARE interactions in vesicular transport, TGF-beta signaling pathway, calcium signaling pathway, FoxO signaling pathway, etc. In summary, HgS nanoparticles at high doses suppress the neurobehavioral functions of C. elegans through a Skp1-dependent mechanism.

Identification of Skp1 as a target of mercury sulfide for neuroprotection

Mercury sulfide (HgS) exerts extensive biological effects on neuronal function. To investigate the direct target of HgS in neuronal cells, we developed a biotin-tagged HgS probe (bio-HgS) and employed an affinity purification technique to capture its target proteins. Then, we identified S-phase kinase-associated protein 1 (Skp1) as a potential target of HgS. Unexpectedly, we discovered that HgS covalently binds to Skp1 through a "Cys62-HgS-Cys120" mode. Moreover, our findings revealed that HgS inhibits the ubiquitin-protease system through Skp1 to up-regulate SNAP-25 expression, thereby triggering synaptic vesicle exocytosis to regulate locomotion ability in C. elegans. Collectively, our findings may promote a comprehensive interpretation of the pharmacological mechanism of mercury sulfide on neuroprotective function.

Traditional Chinese medicine Zhusha Anshen Wan: protective effects on liver, kidney, and intestine of the individual drugs using 1H NMR metabolomics

Introduction: Zhusha Anshen Wan (ZSASW) is a traditional Chinese medicine compound mainly composed of mineral drugs. In clinical practice, ZSASW did not show the toxicity of administering equal doses of cinnabar alone, suggesting that the four combination herbs in ZSASW can alleviate the damage of cinnabar. The effect of each herb on reducing the toxicity of cinnabar has not been fully explained. Methods: In our study, we utilized a metabonomics approach based on high-resolution 1H nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy to investigate the reduction of toxicity by each herb in ZSASW. Liver, kidney and intestinal histopathology examinations and biochemical analysis of the serum were also performed. Results: Partial least squares-discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) was conducted to distinct different metabolic profiles in the urine and serum from the rats. Liver and kidney histopathology examinations, as well as analysis of serum clinical chemistry analysis, were also carried out. The metabolic profiles of the urine and serum of the rats in the CGU (treated with cinnabar and Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch) and CCC (treated with cinnabar and Coptis chinensis French) groups were remarkably similar to those of the control group, while those of the CRG (treated with cinnabar and Rehmannia glutinosa Libosch) and CAS (treated with cinnabar and Angelica sinensis) groups were close to those of the cinnabar group. The metabolic profiles of the urine and serum of the rats in the CGU and CCC groups were remarkably similar to those of the control group, while those of the CRG and CAS groups were close to those of the cinnabar group. Changes in endogenous metabolites associated with toxicity were identified. Rehmannia glutinosa, Rhizoma Coptidis and Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch could maintain the dynamic balance of the intestinal flora. These results were also verified by liver, kidney and intestinal histopathology examinations and biochemical analysis of the serum. The results suggested that Discussion: The metabolic mechanism of single drug detoxification in compound prescriptions has been elucidated. Coptis chinensis and Glycyrrhiza uralensis serve as the primary detoxification agents within ZSASW for mitigating liver, kidney, and intestinal damage caused by cinnabar. Detoxification can be observed through changes in the levels of various endogenous metabolites and related metabolic pathways.

Herbal medicines for insomnia through regulating 5-hydroxytryptamine receptors: a systematic review

Insomnia is a common sleep disorder without effective therapy and can affect a person's life. The mechanism of the disease is not completely understood. Hence, there is a need to understand the targets related to insomnia, in order to develop innovative therapies and new compounds. Recently, increasing interest has been focused on complementary and alternative medicines for treating or preventing insomnia. Research into their molecular components has revealed that their sedative and sleep-promoting properties rely on the interactions with various neurotransmitter systems in the brain. In this review, the role of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) in insomnia development is summarized, while a systematic analysis of studies is conducted to assess the mechanisms of herbal medicines on different 5-HT receptors subtypes, in order to provide reference for subsequent research.

Assessment of Chronic Toxicity of an Ayurvedic Herbo-Metallic Formulation Rasaraj Rasa in Wistar Rats

Objectives

This study aimed to assess the adverse effects of Rasaraj Rasa tablets after repeated oral administration for 180 days in Wistar rats.

Methods

Wistar rats were divided into five groups, of which three were treated with 54, 162, and 270 mg/kg body weight of Rasaraj Rasa, respectively, which correspond to one, three, and five times the proposed human therapeutic dose, for 180 days consecutively. The fifth group (satellite) also received 270 mg/kg body weight of Rasaraj Rasa for 180 days. Body weight and food intake were measured weekly. At the end of the study, all rats were sacrificed, and their blood, serum, and organs were collected and examined using hematology, serum biochemistry, gross pathology, and histopathology tests. In contrast, the satellite group was kept for 4 weeks after treatment.

Results

No significant treatment-related toxicological findings were observed in the clinical features, body weight, laboratory findings, and pathological findings of the high-dose treated groups, when compared to those of the control group.

Conclusion

The no-observed-adverse-effect-level for Rasaraj Rasa in Wistar rats is set at 270 mg/kg body weight.

Pharmacodynamics and acute toxicity studies of Shangke Jiegu tablet with or without cinnabar

Purpose

To evaluate the function of cinnabar in Shangke Jiegu tablet (SKJGT) via pharmacodynamics and toxicity investigations to determine whether cinnabar should be removed from SKJGT.

Materials and methods

The pharmacodynamic differences between SKJGT and cinnabar-free Shangke Jiegu tablet (CFSKJGT) were systematically compared in five animal models. Anti-inflammatory effects were assessed on ear swelling and paw edema by measuring the degree of swelling in each. Then, the acetic acid-induced writhing reaction and hot-water tail-flick were also evaluated by counting pain reactions. The pharmacodynamic effects on soft tissue contusions were identified through histopathological observation. Chemical markers of fracture healing, including osteocytes and the blood calcium and phosphorus level, were determined via radiographic examination and biochemical assay, respectively. In addition, the maximum dosages of SKJGT and CFSKJGT were tested in mice to compare their toxicities.

Results

SKJGT and CFSKJGT showed anti-inflammation effects (swelling inhibition ratios of 40.8% and 44.0%, respectively), analgesia (pain threshold ratios of 48.2% and 44.1%, respectively, at 60 min in the hot-water tail-flick test), and soft tissue contusion repair compared with the control (p < 0.05), and the degree of swelling inhibition and the number of pain reactions were dose-dependent. SKJGT and CFSKJGT both significantly improved the bone healing in the rat fracture model, as indicated by the increased osteocyte size during weeks 1-6 and elevated blood calcium and blood phosphorus levels (reaching maximum concentrations of 7.5 mmol/L and 6.8 mmol/L, respectively) during weeks 1-2. The maximum doses for the SKJGT and CFSKJGT groups were 9.0 g/kg in the acute toxicity experiment. The seizure rate of the SKJGT group (25.0%) was lower than that of the CFSKJGT group (50.0%) when the toxicity was observed after administration.

Conclusion

This is the first report to investigate the pharmacodynamics and acute toxicity of cinnabar in SKJGT. Broadly, this study offers novel, valuable insights into the efficacy of cinnabar in prescribed SKJGT.

Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Rational Application of Cinnabar, Realgar, and Their Formulations

Ethnopharmacological Relevance. Mineral medicines are widely used traditional Chinese medicines with curative effects. These medicines are used for many refractory diseases. Aim of the Review. In this review, cinnabar (HgS) and realgar (As₂S₂) serve as examples of mineral medicines, and their pharmacology, therapeutic toxicity, use in traditional medicine mixtures, and research perspectives are discussed. Materials and Methods. A search was performed for the literature on cinnabar and realgar in PubMed, the Chinese Pharmacopeia, Google, and other sources. The search included studies using single herbs, traditional formulations, or novel dosage forms. Results. Cinnabar and cinnabar formulas exhibit good efficacy for sedation, sleep improvement, anxiety alleviation, and brain protection. However, previous studies on neurotransmitters have reached different conclusions, and detailed pharmacological mechanisms are lacking. Realgar and its formulas exert promising antitumor activity through regulation of cell cycle arrest, intrinsic and extrinsic apoptosis, induction of differentiation, autophagy, metabolic reprogramming, matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) signaling, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. In addition, realgar can be used to treat a variety of refractory diseases by regulating immunity and exerting antibacterial, antiviral, and other effects. However, the existing pharmacological research on the use of realgar for epidemic prevention is insufficient, and animal experiments and research at the cellular level are lacking. Inappropriate applications of cinnabar and realgar can cause toxicity, including neurotoxicity, liver toxicity, kidney toxicity, and genotoxicity. The toxicological mechanism is complex, and molecular-level research is limited. For clinical applications, theory and clinical experience must be combined to guide scientific and rational drug use and to achieve reduced toxicity and increased efficacy through the use of modern preparation methods or combined drugs. Notably, when cinnabar and realgar are used to treat targeted diseases, these agents have a bidirectional effect of “treatment” and “toxicity” on the central nervous system in pathological and normal states. The pharmacological and toxicological mechanisms need to be elucidated in greater detail in the future. Overall, systematic research is needed to provide a basis for better promotion of the rational use of cinnabar and realgar in the clinic. Conclusion. Mineral medicines are multicomponent, multiactivity, and multitargeted substances. The pharmacology and mechanisms of the toxicity and action of realgar and cinnabar are extremely complex. A number of Chinese medicinal preparations of realgar and cinnabar have demonstrated unique efficacy in the treatment of refractory diseases.

Mode of Action of Shan-Zhu-Yu (Cornus officinalis Sieb. et Zucc.) in the Treatment of Depression Based on Network Pharmacology

Background

Although the traditional Chinese medicine Shan-Zhu-Yu may be efficacious against depression, its mechanism of action is unknown. In this study, we aimed to explore the possible mechanisms of action of Shan-Zhu-Yu in the treatment of depression using network pharmacology.

Methods

The active ingredients and targets of Shan-Zhu-Yu were obtained from the Traditional Chinese Medicine System Pharmacology Database (TCMSP) database and converted into gene names using UniProt. Then, the target genes of depression were collected using GeneCards and OMIM. Drug disease intersection genes were obtained using a Venn tool, and a protein-protein interaction network was constructed using STRING. Cytoscape was used to construct an active ingredients-targets-drug-disease network. GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses were performed using DAVID. Furthermore, Autodock was used to evaluate drug and target binding and explore possible molecular mechanisms.

Results

We identified 9721 disease genes, 13 active ingredients, 50 target genes, and 48 drug disease intersecting genes. The results of the GO enrichment analysis suggested that Shan-Zhu-Yu affects the activity of G protein-coupled amine, neurotransmitter, steroid hormone, nuclear, and G protein-coupled neurotransmitter receptors in the treatment of depression by acting on hormone and nuclear receptor binding. The main signaling pathways were associated with neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction, calcium, cGMP-PKG, apoptosis, estrogen, p53, and AGE-RAGE. Molecular docking confirmed that the active components of Shan-Zhu-Yu (e.g., telocinobufagin and β-sitosterol) docked suitably with NR3C1, Bax, Bcl-2, and caspase-3. Shan-Zhu-Yu may exert its therapeutic effects on depression via multiple targets and pathways.

Conclusions

The present study elucidates that Shan-Zhu-Yu suppresses the expression of Bax and caspase-3 and promotes that of NR3C1 and Bcl-2 through neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction and apoptosis signaling pathways. Therefore, Shan-Zhu-Yu is a potential treatment option for depression, and the results of this study will provide new reference points for future experimental research and a scientific basis for its widespread clinical application.

Different proteomic profiles of cinnabar upon therapeutic and toxic exposure reveal distinctive biological manifestations

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Cinnabar, a traditional Chinese mineral medicine with sedative and tranquilizing effects, is known to be toxic to the neural system, but its detailed pharmacological and toxicological mechanisms are still unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to explore the potential neuropharmacological and neurotoxicological mechanisms of cinnabar by investigating the differentially expressed proteins in cerebral cortices of mice exposed to therapeutic and toxic doses of cinnabar.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Label-free quantitative proteomics and bioinformatics analysis were used to characterize the proteins, pathways, and potential targets associated with therapeutic (50 mg/kg) and toxic (1000 mg/kg) doses of cinnabar in cerebral cortices of mice. Proteomic analysis was verified by parallel reaction monitoring.

RESULTS

A total of 6370 and 6299 proteins were identified in the cerebral cortices of mice after exposure to therapeutic and toxic doses of cinnabar, among which 130 and 119 proteins were differentially expressed, respectively. Functional/pathway enrichment analysis showed that both exposure doses of cinnabar could affect transport processes in the cerebral cortex through different proteins. The changes induced by the therapeutic dose included pathways involved in translation and sphingolipid metabolism. Interestingly, for the toxic dose, differentially expressed proteins were enriched for functions and pathways related to RNA splicing, transcription, synaptic plasticity regulation and developmental processes, among which RNA splicing was the most significantly affected function. ATP6V1D and CX3CL1 were shown to be possible key proteins affected by cinnabar, leading to multiple functional changes in the cerebral cortex at the therapeutic and toxic doses, respectively. Furthermore, Connectivity Map (CMap) analysis predicted LRRK2 to be a potential therapeutic target and FTase to be a potential toxic target for cinnabar.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that the pathways and potential targets identified in the mouse cerebral cortex exposed to therapeutic and toxic doses of cinnabar are different, which provides novel insights into the potential molecular mechanisms underlying the pharmacological and toxicological effects of cinnabar.

New insights and rethinking of cinnabar for chemical and its pharmacological dynamics

Cinnabar is an attractive mineral with many different uses. It is reported that cinnabar is one of the traditional Chinese’s medicines extensively use. The main objective of this critical review is to identify the current overview, concept and chemistry of cinnabar, which includes the process developments, challenges, and diverse options for pharmacology research. It is used as a medicine through probable toxicity, especially when taking overdoes. This review is the first to describe the toxicological effects of cinnabar and its associated compounds. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) dependent metabolomics could be useful for examination of the pharmaceutical consequence. The analysis indicated that the accurate preparation methods, appropriate doses, disease status, ages with drug combinations are significant factors for impacting the cinnabar toxicity. Toxicologically, synthetic mercury sulfide or cinnabar should be notable for mercuric chloride, mercury vapor and methyl mercury for future protection and need several prominent advancements in cinnabar research.

HgS Inhibits Oxidative Stress Caused by Hypoxia through Regulation of 5-HT Metabolism Pathway

This study aims to reveal the potential relationship between 5-HT and oxidative stress in the organism. Our in vitro experiments in RIN-14B cells showed that anoxia leads the cells to the state of oxidative stress. Administration of exogenous 5-HT exacerbated this effect, whereas the inhibition of Tph1, LP533401 alleviated the oxidative stress. Several research articles reported that Cinnabar (consists of more than 96% mercury sulfide, HgS), which is widely used in both Chinese and Indian traditional medicine prescriptions, has been involved in the regulation of 5-HT. The present research revealed that HgS relieved the level of oxidative stress of RIN-14B cells. This pharmacological activity was also observed in the prescription drug Zuotai, in which HgS accounts for 54.5%, and these effects were found to be similar to LP533401, an experimental drug to treat pulmonary hypertension. Further, our in vivo experiments revealed that the administration of cinnabar or prescription drug Zuotai in zebrafish reduced the reactive oxygen species (ROS) induced by hypoxia and cured behavioral abnormalities. Taken together, in organisms with hypoxia induced oxidative stress 5-HT levels were found to be abnormally elevated, indicating that 5-HT could regulate oxidative stress, and the decrease in the 5-HT levels, behavioral abnormalities after treatment with cinnabar and Zuotai, we may conclude that the therapeutic and pharmacologic effect of cinnabar and Zuotai may be based on the regulation of 5-HT metabolism and relief of oxidative stress. Even though they aren't toxic at the present dosage in both cell lines and zebrafish, their dose dependent toxicities are yet to be evaluated.

A review of cinnabar (HgS) and/or realgar (As4S4)-containing traditional medicines

ETHNOPHARMOCOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Herbo-metallic preparations have a long history in the treatment of diseases, and are still used today for refractory diseases, as adjuncts to standard therapy, or for economic reasons in developing countries.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

This review uses cinnabar (HgS) and realgar (As₄S₄) as mineral examples to discuss their occurrence, therapeutic use, pharmacology, toxicity in traditional medicine mixtures, and research perspectives.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A literature search on cinnabar and realgar from PubMed, Chinese pharmacopeia, Google and other sources was carried out. Traditional medicines containing both cinnabar and realgar (An-Gong-Niu-Huang Wan, Hua-Feng-Dan); mainly cinnabar (Zhu-Sha-An-Shen Wan; Zuotai and Dangzuo), and mainly realgar (Huang-Dai Pian; Liu-Shen Wan; Niu-Huang-Jie-Du) are discussed.

RESULTS

Both cinnabar and realgar used in traditional medicines are subjected to special preparation procedures to remove impurities. Metals in these traditional medicines are in the sulfide forms which are different from environmental mercurials (HgCl₂, MeHg) or arsenicals (NaAsO₂, NaH₂AsO₄). Cinnabar and/or realgar are seldom used alone, but rather as mixtures with herbs and/or animal products in traditional medicines. Advanced technologies are now used to characterize these preparations. The bioaccessibility, absorption, distribution, metabolism and elimination of these herbo-metallic preparations are different from environmental metals. The rationale of including metals in traditional remedies and their interactions with drugs need to be justified. At higher therapeutic doses, balance of the benefits and risks is critical. Surveillance of patients using these herbo-metallic preparations is desired.

CONCLUSION

Chemical forms of mercury and arsenic are a major determinant of their disposition, efficacy and toxicity, and the use of total Hg and As alone for risk assessment of metals in traditional medicines is insufficient.

UPLC-QTOF MS-Based Serum Metabolomic Profiling Analysis Reveals the Molecular Perturbations Underlying Uremic Pruritus

As one of the most troublesome complications in patients with chronic renal disease, the etiology of uremic pruritus remains unknown, and the current therapeutic approaches are limited and unsatisfactory. To identify potential biomarkers for improving diagnosis and treatment and obtain a better understanding of the pathogenesis of uremic pruritus, we compared serum metabolome profiles of severe uremic pruritus (HUP) patients with mild uremic pruritus (LUP) patients using ultraperformance liquid chromatography-quadruple time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-QTOF MS). Partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) showed that the metabolic profiles of HUP patients are distinguishable from those of LUP patients. Combining multivariate with univariate analysis, 22 significantly different metabolites between HUP and LUP patients were identified. Nine of the 22 metabolites in combination were characterized by a maximum area-under-receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC = 0.899) with a sensitivity of 85.1% and a specificity of 83.0% distinguishing HUP and LUP. Our results indicate that serum metabolome profiling might serve as a promising approach for the diagnosis of uremic pruritus and that the identified biomarkers may improve the understanding of pathophysiology of this disorder. Because the 9 metabolites were phospholipids, uremic toxins, and steroids, further studies may reveal their possible role in the pathogenesis of uremic pruritus.

Metabolic Profiling Analysis of the Alleviation Effect of Treatment with Baicalin on Cinnabar Induced Toxicity in Rats Urine and Serum

Objectives: Baicalin is the main bioactive flavonoid constituent isolated from Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi. The mechanisms of protection of liver remain unclear. In this study, ¹H NMR-based metabonomics approach has been used to investigate the alleviation effect of Baicalin.

Method:¹H NMR metabolomics analyses of urine and serum from rats, was performed to illuminate the alleviation effect of Baicalin on mineral medicine (cinnabar)-induced liver and kidney toxicity.

Results: The metabolic profiles of groups receiving Baicalin at a dose of 80 mg/kg were remarkably different from cinnabar, and meanwhile, the level of endogenous metabolites returned to normal compared to group cinnabar. PLS-DA scores plots demonstrated that the variation tendency of control and Baicalein are apart from Cinnabar. The metabolic profiles of group Baicalein were similar to those of group control. Statistics results were confirmed by the histopathological examination and biochemical assay.

Conclusion: Baicalin have the alleviation effect to the liver and kidney damage induced by cinnabar. The Baicalin could regulate endogenous metabolites associated with the energy metabolism, choline metabolism, amino acid metabolism, and gut flora.

Involvement of 5-HT1A Receptors in the Anxiolytic-Like Effects of Quercitrin and Evidence of the Involvement of the Monoaminergic System

Quercitrin is a well-known flavonoid that is contained in Flos Albiziae, which has been used for the treatment of anxiety. The present study investigated the anxiolytic-like effects of quercitrin in experimental models of anxiety. Compared with the control group, repeated treatment with quercitrin (5.0 and 10.0 mg/kg/day, p.o.) for seven days significantly increased the percentage of entries into and time spent on the open arms of the elevated plus maze. In the light/dark box test, quercitrin exerted an anxiolytic-like effect at 5 and 10 mg/kg. In the marble-burying test, quercitrin (5.0 and 10.0 mg/kg) also exerted an anxiolytic-like effect. Furthermore, quercitrin did not affect spontaneous locomotor activity. The anxiolytic-like effects of quercitrin in the elevated plus maze and light/dark box test were blocked by the serotonin-1A (5-hydroxytryptamine-1A (5-HT_1A)) receptor antagonist WAY-100635 (3.0 mg/kg, i.p.) but not by the γ-aminobutyric acid-A (GABA_A) receptor antagonist flumazenil (0.5 mg/kg, i.p.). The levels of brain monoamines (5-HT and dopamine) and their metabolites (5-hydroxy-3-indoleacetic acid, 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid, and homovanillic acid) were decreased after quercitrin treatment. These data suggest that the anxiolytic-like effects of quercitrin might be mediated by 5-HT_1A receptors but not by benzodiazepine site of GABA_A receptors. The results of the neurochemical studies suggest that these effects are mediated by modulation of the levels of monoamine neurotransmitters.

Consensus analysis of sastric formulations used by non-institutionally trained siddha medical practitioners of Virudhunagar and Tirunelveli districts of Tamil Nadu, India

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Siddha system of traditional medicine has been practiced in Tamil Nadu. This system of medicine has a high number of non-institutionally trained practitioners but studies on their traditional medicinal knowledge are not adequate. The present study is aimed to document and analyze the sastric (traditional) formulations used by the non-institutionally trained siddha medical practitioners in Virudhunagar and Tirunelveli districts of Tamil Nadu, India.

METHODS

After obtaining prior informed consent, interviews were conducted with 115 non-institutionally trained siddha medical practitioners about the sastric formulations used by them for the treatment. Successive free listing method was adopted to collect the data and the data were analyzed by calculating Informant Consensus Factor (Fic) and Informant Agreement Ratio (IAR).

RESULTS

The study documented data regarding 194 sastric formulations and they were classified into plant, mineral and animal based formulations. Quantitative analysis showed that 62.5% of the formulations were plant based, while the mineral based formulations had a high mean number of citations and versatile uses. Gastrointestinal (12.0%), kapha (11.3%) and dermatological (10.8%) ailments had a high percentage of citations. Jaundice had a high Fic value (0.750) followed by the dermatological ailments. The illness categories with high Fic values under each type of formulation were as follows: jaundice, aphrodisiac and urinary ailments (plant based); jaundice, cuts & wounds and dermatological ailments (mineral based); and hemorrhoids, kapha ailments and heart ailments (animal based formulations). The scientific studies conducted with important formulations under each illness category are discussed.

CONCLUSION

The present study indicated the importance of some illnesses over the others and inclusion of new illnesses under each formulation. The ingredients used to prepare these formulations have shown varying degrees of scientific evidence; generally limited studies were available on the efficacy of them as formulations. Further in-depth studies on the formulations with high IAR value and Fic value of illness categories will be helpful to improve health status of the people.

Traditional Chinese medicine and Western psychopharmacology: building bridges

This paper demonstrates that in the treatment of psychiatric disorders, there are striking similarities between the mechanisms of psychoactive agents used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and those of western psychopharmacology. While western researchers search for new treatments and novel mechanisms of action, investigators in Asia are analyzing traditional remedies in order to understand the mechanisms responsible for their effectiveness. A review of contemporary pharmacologic studies of agents used in TCM for psychiatric indications reveals that virtually all of the active principles of drug action established in 20th century psychopharmacology were encountered empirically in Chinese herbal medicine over the past 2000 years. Building bridges between these two traditions may thus be of benefit to both cultures. In addition to providing western patients with a wider selection of treatment options, the effort may help Asian clinicians and researchers avoid some of the errors that have troubled their western counterparts.

A metabolic profiling analysis of the acute hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity of Zhusha Anshen Wan compared with cinnabar in rats using (1)H NMR spectroscopy

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Zhusha Anshen Wan (ZSASW), a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) prescription, composed of cinnabar (cinnabaris), Coptidis Rhizoma (Coptis chinensis French.), Angelicae Sinensis Radix (Angelica sinensis (oliv.) Diels), uncooked Rehmanniae Radix (Rehmannia glutinosa Libosch.), honey fried Glycyrrhizae Radix Et Rhizoma (Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch.), has been widely used for sedative therapy. Cinnabar, the chief component of ZSASW, has been proved to possess the toxicities.

AIM OF THE STUDY

In this study, a metabonomics approach based on high-resolution (1)H nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy was applied to investigate the protective effects of ZSASW on the toxic effects induced by cinnabar alone.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Male Wistar rats were divided into three groups: control group, ZSASW group and cinnabar group. Partial least squares-discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) was performed to identify different metabolic profiles of urine and serum from rats. Liver and kidney histopathology examinations and serum clinical chemistry analysis were also performed.

RESULTS

The significant difference in metabolic profiling of urine and serum of the rats was observed between cinnabar treated group, control group, and the changes of endogenous metabolites related to the toxicities were identified. The results were also certified by the liver and kidney histopathology examinations and biochemical analysis of blood.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggested that the four combined herbal medicines of ZSASW had the effects of protecting from the toxicity induced by cinnabar alone. This work showed that the NMR-based metabonomics approach might be a promising approach to study detoxification of Chinese medicines and reasonable combination of TCM prescriptions.

Role of cinnabar and realgar of WSHFD in protecting against LPS-induced neurotoxicity

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Wan-Sheng-Hua-Feng-Dan (WSHFD) is a traditional Chinese medicine used for the treatment of neurological disorders. Cinnabar (HgS) and realgar (As(4)S(4)) are included in WSHFD. Are they remedies or poisons?

AIM OF STUDY

To investigate the role of cinnabar and realgar in the protective effects of WSHFD on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced neurotoxicity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Rat primary midbrain neuron-glia cultures were used to explore the effects of WSHFD on LPS-induced dopamine (DA) neurodegeneration. The experiment was randomly divided into control, LPS, LPS+removed (cinnabar and realgar in WSHFD were removed), LPS+reduced (cinnabar and realgar in WSHFD were reduced by 65%) and LPS+original (10% cinnabar and 10% realgar in WSHFD) groups. Dopaminergic neurotoxicity was assessed by [(3)H]DA uptake assay and the quantification of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH)-positive neurons. Microglial activation was evaluated using an anti-OX-42 antibody. The release of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) was quantified via the DCFH-DA probe. The transcripts and production of pro-inflammatory factors were examined by real-time RT-PCR analysis and ELISA, respectively.

RESULTS

WSHFD (original) significantly attenuated LPS-induced decrease of DA uptake capacity and TH-positive neuron number, inhibited microglial activation, decreased LPS-induced ROS production, ameliorated LPS-induced elevations of the mRNA expressions of TNFα, iNOS, IL-1β and COX-2 and the subsequent production of TNFα, NO, IL-1β and PGE(2) in neuron-glia cultures. However, WSHFD (removed) and (reduced) failed to protect against LPS-induced neurotoxicity.

CONCLUSION

Cinnabar and realgar were active ingredients of WSHFD in producing protective effects against LPS-induced neurotoxicity.

Effects of lactational exposure to benzo[alpha]pyrene (B[alpha]P) on postnatal neurodevelopment, neuronal receptor gene expression and behaviour in mice

The harmful effects of exposure to benzo[alpha]pyrene (B[alpha]P), which is a neurotoxic pollutant, on mammalian neurodevelopment and/or behaviour as yet remain widely unclear. In the present investigation, we evaluated the impact of the lactational exposure to B[alpha]P on postnatal development of pups and behaviour of young mice. The neurobiological effects of B[alpha]P during lactation were also evaluated on pups' brain. Here, we found that lactational exposure to B[alpha]P at 2 and 20mg/kg affects the neuromaturation of pups by significantly decreasing their reflex as highlighted in surface righting reflex and negative geotaxis tests. However, we noted a significant increase in muscular strength of lactationally B[alpha]P mg/kg-exposed pups, which was probably due to the impact of the exposure to this toxic compound on body weight gain. At the pup stage, lactational exposure to B[alpha]P also provoked a neurobiological change, which was assessed by determination of neuronal receptor gene expression. Indeed, a significant reduction in gene expression of 5HT(1A) receptors in pups exposed to B[alpha]P through lactation was found in comparison to controls. Additionally, attenuation in the expression of MOR(1) mRNA was observed, but statistically significant only in animals receiving the higher dose. Neither the expression levels of ADRA(1D) nor GABA(A) mRNA were altered. Interestingly, the harmful effects of lactational exposure to B[alpha]P on behaviour and cognitive function were still found despite a long post-weaning period. Young mice whose mothers were exposed to B[alpha]P displayed a disinhibition behaviour towards the aversive spaces of the elevated plus maze. Furthermore, a significant increase of spontaneous alternation in the Y-maze was observed, but only in young mice whose mothers were orally exposed to the lower dose of B[alpha]P. Our results suggest a close link between the neurobiological change highlighted in pups' brain and the different behavioural disturbances observed during postnatal development period until young adult stage.

Mercury in traditional medicines: is cinnabar toxicologically similar to common mercurials?

Mercury is a major toxic metal ranked top in the Toxic Substances List. Cinnabar, which contains mercury sulfide, has been used in Chinese traditional medicines for thousands of years as an ingredient in various remedies, and 40 cinnabar-containing traditional medicines are still used today. Little is known about toxicology profiles or toxicokinetics of cinnabar and cinnabar-containing traditional medicines, and the high mercury content in these Chinese medicines raises justifiably escalations of public concern. This minireview, by searching the available database of cinnabar and by comparing cinnabar with common mercurials, discusses differences in their bioavailability, disposition, and toxicity. The analysis showed that cinnabar is insoluble and poorly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Absorbed mercury from cinnabar is mainly accumulated in the kidneys, resembling the disposition pattern of inorganic mercury. Heating cinnabar results in release of mercury vapor, which in turn can produce toxicity similar to inhalation of these vapors. The doses of cinnabar required to produce neurotoxicity are 1000 times higher than methyl mercury. Following long-term use of cinnabar, renal dysfunction may occur. Dimercaprol and succimer are effective chelation therapies for general mercury intoxication including cinnabar. Pharmacological studies of cinnabar suggest sedative and hypnotic effects, but the therapeutic basis of cinnabar is still not clear. In summary, cinnabar is chemically inert with a relatively low toxic potential when taken orally. In risk assessment, cinnabar is less toxic than many other forms of mercury, but the rationale for its inclusion in traditional Chinese medicines remains to be fully justified.