Oxymatrine inhibits neuroinflammation byRegulating M1/M2 polarization in N9 microglia through the TLR4/NF-κB pathway

Structural characterization of Hericium coralloides polysaccharide and its neuroprotective function in Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a common neurodegenerative disorder. Polysaccharides have been scientifically demonstrated to possess neuroprotective properties. In this study, a polysaccharide was isolated from the fruiting bodies of Hericium coralloides using hot water extraction and purified using column chromatography. This H. coralloides polysaccharide (HCP) is a galactan with a main chain of →6)-α-d-Galp-(1 → and a molecular weight of 16.06 kDa. The partial α-l-Fucp-(1 → substitution takes place at its O-2 position. The neuroprotective effects of HCP were investigated in an APP/PS1 mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. The step-down and Morris water maze tests demonstrated that HCP effectively ameliorated cognitive impairment. After 8-week treatment, HCP reduced amyloid-β plaques and phosphorylated tau protein deposition. In combination with the gut microbiota and metabolites, proteomic analysis suggested that the neuroprotective effects of HCP are associated with neuroinflammation and autophagy. Immunofluorescence and western blotting analyses confirmed that HCP facilitated the polarization of M2 microglia by augmenting autophagy flux, thereby effectively reducing levels of amyloid-β plaques and neuroinflammation. These data demonstrate that HCP effectively mitigates neuroinflammation by enhancing autophagic flux, demonstrating its potential for the treatment of AD.

Plac8-ERK pathway modulation of monocyte function in sepsis

Sepsis, a life-threatening condition caused by infection, is characterized by the dysregulation of immune responses and activation of monocytes. Plac8, a protein, has been implicated in various inflammatory conditions. This study aimed to investigate the effect of Plac8 upregulation on monocyte proliferation and activation in sepsis patients. Peripheral blood samples were collected from healthy individuals and sepsis patients. Monocytes were stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to create an in vitro sepsis model, while a murine sepsis model was established using cecal ligation and puncture (CLP). The levels of monocyte markers, proliferation index (PI), and pro-inflammatory cytokines were assessed using flow cytometry and qPCR, respectively. Plac8 and phosphorylated ERK protein levels were determined by western blot, and TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-10 levels were quantified using ELISA. The CCK-8 assay was used to evaluate PBMC proliferation and activation. The results showed that Plac8 was highly expressed in sepsis models, promoting the survival, proliferation, and activation of monocytes. Plac8 upregulation activated the ERK pathway, leading to increased phosphorylation of ERK protein and elevated levels of CD14, CD16, TNF-α, IL-6, Plac8, and IL-10. In sepsis mice, Plac8 overexpression similarly activated the ERK pathway and promoted the survival, proliferation, and activation of monocytes. In conclusion, the upregulation of Plac8 enhances the activation of the ERK pathway and promotes monocyte proliferation and activation in sepsis patients.

Sophora flavescens-Angelica sinensis in the treatment of eczema by inhibiting TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB pathway

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Sophora flavescens Ait.-Angelica sinensis(Oliv.) Diels drug pairing (SA) is a transformed drug pairing from Shengui pill, a traditional Chinese medicine prescription in the ninth volume of Traditional Chinese Medicine classic "Gu Jin Yi Jian", which is famous for clearing heat, moistening dryness, and promoting blood circulation. It is commonly used in the treatment of eczema, a skin condition that causes itching and inflammation. Despite its widespread use, there is still limited research on the mechanism of how SA treats eczema. This paper aims to fill this gap by conducting animal experiments to uncover the mechanism behind SA's therapeutic effects on eczema. Our findings provide a solid foundation for the clinical use of this TCM prescription.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The basic purpose of this study is to clarify the therapeutic mechanism of Sophora flavescens-Angelica sinensis (SA) in the treatment and control of eczema.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The chemical compositions of SA were analyzed using HPLC-Q-Orbitrap-MS. In vivo, a mouse model of eczema was created, and the serum levels of TNF-α and IL-1β were quantified using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining was performed to assess the pathological state of the mouse skin, and immunohistochemical technique (IHC) was employed to estimate the contents of TNF-α, TLR4, and NF-κB semi-quantitatively. The expression levels of TLR4, MyD88, and NF-κB mRNA were determined through real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Western Blotting was utilized to identify the protein levels of TLR4, MyD88, and NF-κB in mouse skin tissue.

RESULTS

SA identified 18 active chemicals, some of which were shown in vivo to inhibit the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathway while reducing serum levels of TNF-α and IL-1β, making them ideal agents for the treatment of eczema.

CONCLUSIONS

SA's anti-inflammatory properties are attributed to its ability to reduce serum levels of TNF-α and IL-1β, likewise inhibit the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathway.

The role of microglia heterogeneity in synaptic plasticity and brain disorders: Will sequencing shed light on the discovery of new therapeutic targets?

Microglia play a crucial role in interacting with neuronal synapses and modulating synaptic plasticity. This function is particularly significant during postnatal development, as microglia are responsible for removing excessive synapses to prevent neurodevelopmental deficits. Dysregulation of microglial synaptic function has been well-documented in various pathological conditions, notably Alzheimer's disease and multiple sclerosis. The recent application of RNA sequencing has provided a powerful and unbiased means to decipher spatial and temporal microglial heterogeneity. By identifying microglia with varying gene expression profiles, researchers have defined multiple subgroups of microglia associated with specific pathological states, including disease-associated microglia, interferon-responsive microglia, proliferating microglia, and inflamed microglia in multiple sclerosis, among others. However, the functional roles of these distinct subgroups remain inadequately characterized. This review aims to refine our current understanding of the potential roles of heterogeneous microglia in regulating synaptic plasticity and their implications for various brain disorders, drawing from recent sequencing research and functional studies. This knowledge may aid in the identification of pathogenetic biomarkers and potential factors contributing to pathogenesis, shedding new light on the discovery of novel drug targets. The field of sequencing-based data mining is evolving toward a multi-omics approach. With advances in viral tools for precise microglial regulation and the development of brain organoid models, we are poised to elucidate the functional roles of microglial subgroups detected through sequencing analysis, ultimately identifying valuable therapeutic targets.

Ginsenoside Rg3 attenuates neuroinflammation and hippocampal neuronal damage after traumatic brain injury in mice by inactivating the NF-kB pathway via SIRT1 activation

This investigation examined the potential of ginsenoside Rg3 in addressing traumatic brain injury (TBI). A TBI mouse model underwent treatment with ginsenoside Rg3 and nicotinamide (NAM). Neurological and motor functions were assessed using modified neurological severity score and rotarod tests. Brain water content in mice was detected. Primary mouse microglia were exposed to lipopolysaccharide (LPS), ginsenoside Rg3, and NAM. Nissl and immunofluorescence staining were utilized to investigate hippocampal damage, and localization of P65, Iba1 and INOS in microglia. Hippocampal neurons were grown in a culture medium derived from microglia. CCK-8 and TUNEL assays were employed to evaluate the viability and apoptosis of hippocampal neurons. Proinflammatory factors and proteins were tested using ELISA, western blot and immunofluorescence staining. As a result, ginsenoside Rg3 enhanced neurological and motor functions in mice post-TBI, reduced brain water content, alleviated hippocampal neuronal neuroinflammation and damage, activated SIRT1, and deactivated the NF-kB pathway. In LPS-stimulated microglia, ginsenoside Rg3 diminished inflammation, activated SIRT1, deactivated the NF-kB pathway, and facilitated nuclear localization of P65 and co-localization of Iba1 and INOS. The effects of ginsenoside Rg3 were countered by NAM in both TBI mice and LPS-stimulated microglia. Hippocampal neurons cultured in a medium containing LPS, ginsenoside Rg3, and NAM-treated microglia showed improved viability and reduced apoptosis compared to those cultured in a medium with LPS and ginsenoside Rg3-treated microglia alone. Ginsenoside Rg3 was effective in reducing neuroinflammation and damage in hippocampal neurons following TBI by modulating the SIRT1/NF-kB pathway, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic agent for TBI.

Oxymatrine mitigates Aspergillus fumigatus keratitis by suppressing fungal activity and restricting pyroptosis

Fungal keratitis (FK) is a refractory keratitis caused by excessive inflammation and fungal damage. Excessive inflammation can lead to tissue damage and corneal opacity, resulting in a poor prognosis for FK. Oxymatrine (OMT) is a natural alkaloid, which has rich pharmacological effects, such as antioxidant and anti-inflammation. However, its antifungal activity and the mechanism of action in FK have not been elucidated. This study confirmed that OMT suppressed Aspergillus fumigatus growth, biofilm formation, the integrity of fungal cell and conidial adherence. OMT not only effectively reduced corneal fungal load but also inflammation responses. OMT lessened the recruitment of neutrophils and macrophages in FK. In addition, OMT up-regulated the expression of Nrf2 and down-regulated the expression of IL-18, IL-1β, caspase-1, NLRP3 and GSDMD. Pre-treatment with Nrf2 inhibitor up-regulated the expression of IL-1β, IL-18, caspase-1, NLRP3 and GSDMD supressed by OMT. In conclusion, OMT has efficient anti-inflammatory and antifungal effects by suppressing fungal activity and restricting pyroptosis via Nrf2 pathway. OMT is considered as a potential option for the treatment of FK.

Study on Oxymatrine-Based Research from 2001 to 2022: A Bibliometric Analysis

Oxymatrine is a quinolizidine alkaloid mainly derived from Kushen; it possesses various therapeutic effects, such as organ- and tissue-protective, anticancer, and antiviral effects. The research directions for oxymatrine remain broad. In order to explore the overall status of oxymatrine-based research, we carried out a bibliometric analysis to summarize the oxymatrine-based, English-written studies published in the past 22 years. In total, 267 studies were included, most of which were original. The number of annual studies slowly increased with some fluctuations. Other than China, 11 different countries conducted studies on oxymatrine; the variety in the country of origin of these publications is presented as a recently increasing trend. Many affiliates and researchers have participated in oxymatrine-based research. Various treatment mechanisms involving different oxymatrine pathways have led to research in a wide range of fields, being published in numerous journals. Two particularly popular research fields related to oxymatrine involved anticancer and anti-inflammation. From this research, we concluded that with increasing and continuous in-depth studies, more therapeutic effects and mechanisms will be elucidated, and oxymatrine may present as a viable option for the treatment of additional diseases.

Quercetin Protects Against Global Cerebral ischemia‒reperfusion Injury by Inhibiting Microglial Activation and Polarization

Background

This study aims to investigate the protective effect of quercetin against global cerebral ischemia‒reperfusion (GCI/R) injury in rats and elucidate the underlying mechanism.

Methods

A GCI/R injury rat model was established using a four-vessel occlusion (4-VO) method. An oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R) injury model was induced in BV2 cells. The extent of injury was assessed by evaluating neurological deficit scores (NDS) and brain water content and conducting behavioral tests. Pathomorphological changes in the prefrontal cortex were examined. Additionally, the study measured the levels of inflammatory cytokines, the degree of microglial activation and polarization, and the protein expression of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and TIR-domain-containing adaptor inducing interferon-β (TRIF).

Results

Quercetin pretreatment significantly ameliorated neurological impairment, improved learning and memory abilities, and reduced anxiety in rats subjected to GCI/R injury. Furthermore, quercetin administration effectively mitigated neuronal injury and brain edema. Notably, it suppressed microglial activation and hindered polarization toward the M1 phenotype. Simultaneously, quercetin downregulated the expression of TLR4 and TRIF proteins and attenuated the release of IL-1β and TNF-α.

Conclusion

This study highlights the novel therapeutic potential of quercetin in alleviating GCI/R injury. Quercetin demonstrates its neuroprotective effects by inhibiting neuroinflammation and microglial activation while impeding their transformation into the M1 phenotype through modulation of the TLR4/TRIF pathway.

Brain microvascular endothelial cell-derived exosomes transmitting circ_0000495 promote microglial M1-polarization and endothelial cell injury under hypoxia condition

Human brain microvascular endothelial cells (HBMVECs) and microglia play critical roles in regulating cerebral homeostasis during ischemic stroke. However, the role of HBMVECs-derived exosomes in microglia polarization after stroke remains unknown. We isolated exosomes (Exos) from oxygen glucose deprivation (OGD)-exposed HBMVECs, before added them into microglia. Microglia polarization markers were tested using RT-qPCR or flow cytometry. Inflammatory cytokines were measured with ELISA. Endothelial cell damage was assessed by cell viability, apoptosis, apoptosis-related proteins, oxidative stress, and angiogenic activity using CCK-8, flow cytometry, western blot, ELISA, and endothelial tube formation assay, respectively. We also established middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) mice model to examine the function of circ_0000495 on stroke in vivo. Our study found that HBMVECs-Exos reduced M2 markers (IL-10, CD163, and CD206), increased M1 markers (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-12), CD86-positive cells, and inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-1β), indicating the promotion of microglial M1-polarization. Microglial M1-polarization induced by HBMVECs-Exos reduced viability and promoted apoptosis and oxidative stress, revealing the aggravation of endothelial cell damage. However, circ_0000495 silencing inhibited HBMVECs-Exos-induced alterations. Mechanistically, circ_0000495 adsorbed miR-579-3p to upregulate toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) in microglia; miR-579-3p suppressed HBMVECs-Exos-induced alterations via declining TLR4; furthermore, Yin Yang 1 (YY1) transcriptionally activated circ_0000495 in HBMVECs. Importantly, circ_0000495 aggravated ischemic brain injury in vivo via activating TLR4/nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathway. Collectively, OGD-treated HBMVECs-Exos transmitted circ_0000495 to regulate miR-579-3p/TLR4/NF-κB axis in microglia, thereby facilitating microglial M1-polarization and endothelial cell damage.

Modulating the polarization phenotype of microglia - A valuable strategy for central nervous system diseases

Central nervous system (CNS) diseases have become one of the leading causes of death in the global population. The pathogenesis of CNS diseases is complicated, so it is important to find the patterns of the disease to improve the treatment strategy. Microglia are considered to be a double-edged sword, playing both harmful and beneficial roles in CNS diseases. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the progression of the disease and the changes in the polar phenotype of microglia to provide guidance in the treatment of CNS diseases. Microglia activation may evolve into different phenotypes: M1 and M2 types. We focused on the roles that M1 and M2 microglia play in regulating intercellular dialogues, pathological reactions and specific diseases in CNS diseases. Importantly, we summarized the strategies used to modulate the polarization phenotype of microglia, including traditional pharmacological modulation, biological therapies, and physical strategies. This review will contribute to the development of potential strategies to modulate microglia polarization phenotypes and provide new alternative therapies for CNS diseases.

Inhibition of the TLR4/NF-κB pathway promotes the polarization of LPS-induced BV2 microglia toward the M2 phenotype

This study aimed to investigate whether the inhibition of the TLR4/NF-κB pathway can promote lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced microglial polarization from the M1 to M2 phenotype, and thus exert neuroprotection. LPS-induced microglia were used as a model for inflammation in vitro. TLR4-specific inhibitor resatorvid (TAK-242) and NF-κB inhibitor pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate (PDTC) were used to verify the effect of the TLR4/NF-κB pathway on microglia activation and polarization. Cell proliferation was measured by cell counting, and nitric oxide (NO) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) release was measured using the Griess reagent and ROS kit, respectively. Immunofluorescence and RT-qPCR analyses were used to detect the expression of microglial activation markers, phenotypic markers, related pathway molecules, and inflammatory factors. TLR4 specific inhibitor TAK-242 and NF-κB inhibitor PDTC alleviated LPS-induced microglia over-activation by inhibiting the TLR4/NF-κB pathway, and reduced LPS-stimulated cell proliferation and the release of NO, ROS, TNF-a, and IL-6 and IL-1β. Meanwhile, TAK-242 and PDTC promoted LPS-induced polarization of microglia from M1 to M2 phenotype, decreased the expression of microglial activation marker Iba1 and M1 phenotypic markers (TNF-a and CD86), and increased the expression of M2 phenotypic markers (Arg-1 and CD206). The mechanism may be related to inhibiting the TLR4/NF-κB pathway. The inhibition of the TLR4/NF-κB pathway can promote LPS-induced polarization of BV2 microglia from M1 phenotype to M2 phenotype.

β-Sitosterol Alleviates Neuropathic Pain by Affect Microglia Polarization through Inhibiting TLR4/NF-κB Signaling Pathway

The etiology of neuropathic pain is mostly caused by mechanical deformation and neuroinflammation, of which neuroinflammation is the main cause of chronic neuropathic pain. Activation of the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway mediates elevated levels of inflammatory cytokines, and we clearly demonstrated by in vivo and in vitro Western blot experiments that β-sitosterol significantly inhibited the elevated Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) expression levels and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) activation associated with inflammatory responses. In cellular experiments, we clearly saw that both β-sitosterol and TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway inhibitors could inhibit M1 proinflammatory phenotype expression and promote M2 anti-inflammatory phenotype expression in GMI-R1 microglia by flow cytometry and immunofluorescence assays. Therefore, we suggest that β-sitosterol can affect microglial polarization by inhibiting the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway thereby reducing neuroinflammation and thus alleviating neuropathic pain.

Roflumilast attenuates neuroinflammation post retinal ischemia/reperfusion injury by regulating microglia phenotype via the Nrf2/STING/NF-κB pathway

PURPOSE

The abnormal polarisation of microglial cells (MGs) following retinal ischemia/reperfusion (RIR) initiates neuroinflammation and progressive death of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), causing increasingly severe and irreversible visual dysfunction. Roflumilast (Roflu) is a promising candidate for treating neuroinflammatory diseases. This study aimed to explore whether Roflu displayed a cytoprotective effect against RIR-induced neuroinflammation and to characterise the underlying signalling pathway.

METHODS

The effects and mechanism of Roflu against RIR injury were investigated in C57BL/6J mice and the BV2 cell line. We used quantitative real-time PCR and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay to examine the levels of inflammatory factors. Furthermore, haematoxylin and eosin and immunofluorescence (IF) stainings were used to assess the morphology of the retina and the states of MGs and RGCs. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were examined using a ROS assay kit, while whole-genome sequencing analysis was conducted to identify altered pathways and molecules. Western blotting and IF staining were used to quantify the proteins associated with the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/stimulator of interferon gene (STING)/nuclear factor kappa beta (NF-κB) pathway.

RESULTS

MG polarisation includes the pro-inflammatory and neurotoxic M1 phenotype as well as the anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective M2 phenotype. Roflu significantly attenuated MG activation and contributed to a shift in the MG phenotype from M1 to M2. Moreover, Roflu decreased ROS release and increased heme oxygenase 1 and NAD(P)H quinone oxidoreductase 1 expression. In vitro and in vivo experiments validated that Roflu exerted its neuroprotective effects primarily by upregulating the Nrf2/STING/NF-κB pathway. However, these effects were abrogated when the Nrf2 expression was inhibited by pharmacological or genetic manipulation.

CONCLUSIONS

Roflu suppressed RIR-induced neuroinflammation by driving the shift of MG polarisation from M1 to M2 phenotype, which was mediated by the upregulation of the Nrf2/STING/NK-κB pathway.

Tetramethylpyrazine promotes axonal remodeling and modulates microglial polarization via JAK2-STAT1/3 and GSK3-NFκB pathways in ischemic stroke

Ischemic stroke results in demyelination that underlies neurological disfunction. Promoting oligodendrogenesis will rescue the injured axons and accelerate remyelination after stroke. Microglia react to ischemia/hypoxia and polarize to M1/M2 phenotypes influencing myelin injury and repair. Tetramethylpyrazine (TMP) has neuroprotective effects in treating cerebrovascular disorders. This study aims to evaluate whether TMP promotes the renovation of damaged brain tissues especially on remyelination and modulates microglia phenotypes following ischemic stroke. Here magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and histopathological evaluation are performed to characterize the process of demyelination and remyelination. Immunofluorescence staining is used to prove oligodendrogenesis and microglial polarization. Western blotting is conducted to examine interleukin (IL)-6, IL-10, transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) and Janus protein tyrosine kinase (JAK) 2-signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) 1/3-glycogen synthase kinase (GSK) 3-nuclear transcription factor κB (NFκB) signals. Results show TMP alleviates the injury of axons and myelin sheath, increases NG2+, Ki67+/NG2+, CNPase+, Ki67+/CNPase+, Iba1+/Arg-1+ cells and decreases Iba1+ and Iba1+/CD16+ cells in periinfarctions of rats. Particularly, TMP downregulates IL-6 and upregulates IL-10 and TGF-β expressions, besides, enhances JAK2-STAT3 and suppresses STAT1-GSK3-NFκB activation in middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAo) rats. Then we demonstrate that TMP reverses M1/M2 phenotype via JAK2-STAT1/3 and GSK3-NFκB pathways in lipopolysaccharide (LPS) plus interferon-γ (IFN-γ)-stimulated BV2 microglia. Blocking JAK2 with AG490 counteracts TMP's facilitation on M2 polarization of microglia. This study warrants the promising therapy for stroke with TMP treatment.

NLRP3 inflammasome inhibition and M1-to-M2 microglial polarization shifting via scoparone-inhibited TLR4 axis in ovariectomy/D-galactose Alzheimer's disease rat model

Neuroinflammation mediated by microglia activation is a critical contributor to Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathogenesis. Dysregulated microglia polarization in terms of M1 overactivation with M2 inhibition is involved in AD pathological damage. Scoparone (SCO), a coumarin derivative, displays several beneficial pharmacological effects including anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic properties, however, its neurological effect in AD is still elusive. This study investigated the neuroprotective potential of SCO in AD animal model focusing on determining its effect on M1/M2 microglia polarization and exploring the plausible mechanism involved via investigating its modulatory role on TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB and NLRP3 inflammasome. Sixty female Wistar rats were randomly allocated into four groups. Two groups were sham-operated and treated or untreated with SCO, and the other two groups were subjected to bilateral ovariectomy (OVX) and received D-galactose (D-Gal; 150 mg/kg/day, i.p) alone or with SCO (12.5 mg/kg/day, i.p) for 6 weeks. SCO improved memory functions of OVX/D-Gal rats in the Morris water maze and novel object recognition tests. It also reduced the hippocampal burden of amyloid-β₄₂ and p-Tau, additionally, the hippocampal histopathological architecture was prominently preserved. SCO inhibited the gene expression of TLR4, MyD88, TRAF-6, and TAK-1, additionally, p-JNK and NF-κBp65 levels were significantly curbed. This was associated with repression of NLRP3 inflammasome along with M1-to-M2 microglia polarization shifting as exemplified by mitigating pro-inflammatory M1 marker (CD86) and elevating M2 neuroprotective marker (CD163). Therefore, SCO could promote microglia transition towards M2 through switching off TLR4/MyD88/TRAF-6/TAK-1/NF-κB axis and inhibiting NLRP3 pathway, with consequent mitigation of neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration in OVX/D-Gal AD model.

Naringenin and apigenin ameliorates corticosterone-induced depressive behaviors

Background

Depression is a common kind of mental illness, and it becomes the main health burden in the world.

Purpose

The aim of this study was to investigate the antidepressant effects of naringin and apigenin isolated from Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramatis.

Methods

Firstly, 20 mg/kg corticosterone (CORT) was injected into mice to establish an in vivo model of depression. After treated with different dosages of naringenin and apigenin for 3 weeks, the mice underwent a series of behavioral experiments. Following this, all mice were sacrificed and biochemical analyses were performed. Subsequently, CORT (500 μM) induced PC12 cells was used as an in vitro model of depression, and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) (1 μg ml^-1) induced N9 microglia cells was used as an in vitro model of neuroinflammation in N9 microglia cells, to investigate the neuroprotective mechanisms of naringenin and apigenin.

Results

Results showed that the naringenin and apigenin treatment ameliorated CORT-induced sucrose preference decrease and immobility time increase, elevated the 5-hydroxytryptamine(5-HT), dopamine (DA) and norepinephrine (NE) levels, and enhanced the cAMP-response element binding protein (CREB) and brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) protein expressions in the hippocampus. The results showed that the naringenin and apigenin treatment improved the PC-12 cell viability through reducing apoptosis rate induced by CORT. Furthermore, naringenin and apigenin were able to inhibit the activation of N9 cells after LPS induction, and shift microglia from proinflammatory M1 microglia toward anti-inflammatory M2 microglia, as evidenced by the decreased ratio of M1 type microglia marker CD86 and M2 type microglia marker CD86.

Conclusion

These results suggested that naringenin and apigenin may improve depressive behaviors through promoting BDNF and inhibiting neuroinflammation and neuronal apoptosis.

Oxymatrine boosts hematopoietic regeneration by modulating MAPK/ERK phosphorylation after irradiation-induced hematopoietic injury

Hematopoietic toxicity due to ionizing radiation (IR) is a leading cause of death in nuclear incidents, occupational hazards, and cancer therapy. Oxymatrine (OM), an extract originating from the root of Sophora flavescens (Kushen), possesses extensive pharmacological properties. In this study, we demonstrate that OM treatment accelerates hematological recovery and increases the survival rate of mice subjected to irradiation. This outcome is accompanied by an increase in functional hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), resulting in an enhanced hematopoietic reconstitution ability. Mechanistically, we observed significant activation of the MAPK signaling pathway, accelerated cellular proliferation, and decreased cell apoptosis. Notably, we identified marked increases in the cell cycle transcriptional regulator Cyclin D1 (Ccnd1) and the anti-apoptotic protein BCL2 in HSC after OM treatment. Further investigation revealed that the expression of Ccnd1 transcript and BCL2 levels were reversed upon specific inhibition of ERK1/2 phosphorylation, effectively negating the rescuing effect of OM. Moreover, we determined that targeted inhibition of ERK1/2 activation significantly counteracted the regenerative effect of OM on human HSCs. Taken together, our results suggest a crucial role for OM in hematopoietic reconstitution following IR via MAPK signaling pathway-mediated mechanisms, providing theoretical support for innovative therapeutic applications of OM in addressing IR-induced injuries in humans.

Network pharmacology and molecular docking analysis on the mechanism of Cordyceps militaris polysaccharide regulating immunity through TLR4/TNF-α pathwayss

The role of polysaccharide components in the immune system, especially immunomodulatory effects, has received increasing attention. In this context, in this study, network pharmacology was adopted to explore the hypothesis of a multitarget mechanism for immune modulation by Chrysalis polysaccharides. A total of 174 common targets were screened by network pharmacology, with the main ones being TNF, MAPK3, CASP3, VEGFA, and STAT3, mostly enriched in the Toll pathway. The molecular docking results showed that the polysaccharide fraction of Chrysalis binds well to TNF proteins. Besides, in vitro cellular assays were performed to verify the ability of Chrysalis polysaccharides to regulate macrophage polarization and to screen for macrophage surface receptors. Furthermore, in vivo experiments were conducted to prove the activation of TLR4 and TNF-α protein expression in mice by Chrysalis polysaccharide.

Oxymatrine and insulin resistance: Focusing on mechanistic intricacies involve in diabetes associated cardiomyopathy via SIRT1/AMPK and TGF-β signaling pathway

Cardiomyopathy (CDM) and related morbidity and mortality are increasing at an alarming rate, in large part because of the increase in the number of diabetes mellitus cases. The clinical consequence associated with CDM is heart failure (HF) and is considerably worse for patients with diabetes mellitus, as compared to nondiabetics. Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) is characterized by structural and functional malfunctioning of the heart, which includes diastolic dysfunction followed by systolic dysfunction, myocyte hypertrophy, cardiac dysfunctional remodeling, and myocardial fibrosis. Indeed, many reports in the literature indicate that various signaling pathways, such as the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1), PI3K/Akt, and TGF-β/smad pathways, are involved in diabetes-related cardiomyopathy, which increases the risk of functional and structural abnormalities of the heart. Therefore, targeting these pathways augments the prevention as well as treatment of patients with DCM. Alternative pharmacotherapy, such as that using natural compounds, has been shown to have promising therapeutic effects. Thus, this article reviews the potential role of the quinazoline alkaloid, oxymatrine obtained from the Sophora flavescensin CDM associated with diabetes mellitus. Numerous studies have given a therapeutic glimpse of the role of oxymatrine in the multiple secondary complications related to diabetes, such as retinopathy, nephropathy, stroke, and cardiovascular complications via reductions in oxidative stress, inflammation, and metabolic dysregulation, which might be due to targeting signaling pathways, such as AMPK, SIRT1, PI3K/Akt, and TGF-β pathways. Thus, these pathways are considered central regulators of diabetes and its secondary complications, and targeting these pathways with oxymatrine might provide a therapeutic tool for the diagnosis and treatment of diabetes-associated cardiomyopathy.

The mechanism of oxymatrine on atopic dermatitis in mice based on SOCS1/JAK-STAT3 pathway

Based on the suppressor of cytokine signaling 1 (SOCS1)/Janus kinase (JAK)/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) pathway, the mechanism of oxymatrine in the treatment of atopic dermatitis (AD) was preliminarily explored in this study. C57BL/6 mice were induced to establish AD model by smearing carbotriol (MC903) on their back. The AD mice were randomly divided into model group, oxymatrine groups with three dosages (25, 50 and 100 mg/kg), (n = 10). Oxymatrine groups were intragastric administered once daily for 14 days. The same volume of saline was given in the normal control group and model group once daily for 14 days. Subsequently, HE staining was used to observe the pathological changes of skin tissue, ELISA was used to detect the levels of serum inflammatory factors including interleukin-4, 6 and 17 (IL-4, IL-6, and IL-17), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and immunoglobulin E (IgE). Immunohistochemistry was used to detect the expression of suppressor of cytokine signaling 1 and CD3 in skin tissue, and Western blotting was used to detect the proteins in suppressor of cytokine signaling 1/JAK-STAT3 pathway. Compared with the normal control group, the pathological damage of mice in the model group, such as skin hyperplasia, edema, congestion and inflammatory infiltration, aggravated increased significantly. And the expression of serum inflammatory factors, CD3 positive expression and JAK-STAT3 pathway protein in the model group were increased (p < .05), and the expression of suppressor of cytokine signaling 1 protein (p < .05) was decreased. Compared with the model group, the above pathological damage of the mice was reduced, and the serum inflammatory factors, JAK-STAT3 pathway protein, and CD3 positive expression were decreased as a dose-dependant manner (p < .05), and the expression of suppressor of cytokine signaling 1 protein was increased as a dose-dependent manner (p < .05). Oxymatrine can improve the skin inflammation symptoms of AD mice by up regulating the expression of suppressor of cytokine signaling 1, inhibiting the activation of JAK-STAT3 pathway and blocking the activation of T lymphocytes.

Immunomodulatory Effect of Traditional Chinese Medicine Combined with Systemic Therapy on Patients with Liver Cancer: A Systemic Review and Network Meta-analysis

Objective: As immune combination therapy in the treatment of liver cancer made significant achievements, and the modulating effect of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) on immunity gradually appeared. The main purpose of this study was to study the effect of different TCM combined with systemic therapy (ST) on immune regulation in patients with liver cancer, as well as the efficacy and safety of combined therapy, and to find the best combined application scheme by ranking.

Methods: Nine electronic databases were searched from January 1, 2010, to November 12, 2021, to search for RCTs of TCM combined ST in the field of liver cancer for literature screening, quality evaluation and data extraction. STATA 15.0 and RevMan 5.3 software were used to conduct network meta-analysis to analyze and explore the significance of TCM combined ST in immune regulation, efficacy and safety in clinical application. The probability value of the surface under the cumulative ranking curve was used to rank the processing studied.

Results: A total of 25 studies involving 2,152 participants were included in the network meta-analysis, including six traditional Chinese medicine injections and seven proprietary Chinese medicines. The results showed that Dahuang Zhechong Wan and Kangai injection combined with ST were the best choices for immune regulation. Moreover, the Huaier granule was the best choice to reduce vascular endothelial growth factors.

Conclusion: For patients with liver cancer, TCM combined with ST was better than that of ST alone and can significantly improve the immune function of patients as well as the efficacy and safety of treatment. However, given the limited sample size and methodological quality of the trials that we included in our study, more centralized and randomized controlled trials with a large sample size are required to verify our findings.

Effect of kangai injection combined with platinum-based chemotherapy on the immune function of patients with advanced non-small-cell lung cancer: A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Kangai injection (KAI) is a well-known Chinese patent medicine applied for several different types of cancers in the clinic as an auxiliary therapeutic approach, which is refined from three herbal extracts (Astragalus, Ginseng and Matrine).

PURPOSE

To systematically evaluate the effect of combination treatment of platinum-based chemotherapy and KAI on patients with advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

STUDY DESIGN

A meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The randomized controlled trials (RCTs) about stage Ⅲ-Ⅳ NSCLC using KAI combined platinum-based chemotherapy were electronically retrieved from eight electronic databases up to July 2021. We applied RevMan 5.4, Stata 16.0, TSA 0.9.5.10 Beta and GRADE Pro-GDT to evaluate the quality of the included RCTs and perform the meta-analysis.

RESULTS

19 RCTs were included, consisting a total sample size of 1,389 cases. Meta-analysis revealed that compared with chemotherapy alone, KAI combined with platinum-based chemotherapy was associated with significantly higher objective response rate (ORR) [RR = 1.36, 95%CI (1.21,1.54), p< 0.00001], higher disease control rate (DCR) [RR = 1.15, 95%CI (1.09,1.21), p< 0.00001], greater Karnofsky performance status (KPS) [RR = 1.75, 95%CI (1.41,2.18), p< 0.00001], lower white blood cell toxicity [RR = 0.67, 95%CI (0.55,0.82), p = 0.0001], lower platelet toxicity [RR = 0.60, 95%CI (0.47,0.75), P  < 0.0001], and lower incidence of vomiting [RR = 0.66, 95%CI (0.57,0.76), p< 0.00001]. In terms of the immune function, KAI united with chemotherapy significantly raised the ratio of CD3⁺ cells [MD = 10.65, 95%CI (8.21,13.09), p< 0.00001], CD4⁺ cells [MD = 7.67, 95%CI (6.31,9.03), p< 0.00001], NK cells [MD = 4.97, 95%CI (3.03,6.92), p< 0.00001], and CD4⁺/ CD8⁺ [MD = 0.32, 95%CI (0.19,0.45), p< 0.00001], and decreased the percentage of CD8⁺ cells [MD = -5.56, 95%CI (-7.51,-3.61), p< 0.00001].

CONCLUSIONS

This meta-analysis identified that the combination treatment of KAI and platinum-based chemotherapy was more beneficial to patients with advanced NSCLC when compared to chemotherapy alone, which could significantly improve the clinical efficacy, enhance the immune function, and reduce chemotherapy toxicity. Our study provides a theoretical basis and treatment guidance for patients with NSCLC.