1
|
Liu S, Sun C, Tang H, Peng C, Peng F. Leonurine: a comprehensive review of pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and toxicology. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1428406. [PMID: 39101131 PMCID: PMC11294146 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1428406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Leonurine is an alkaloid unique to the Leonurus genus, which has many biological activities, such as uterine contraction, anti-inflammation, anti-oxidation, regulation of cell apoptosis, anti-tumor, angiogenesis, anti-platelet aggregation, and inhibition of vasoconstriction. This paper summarizes the extraction methods, synthetic pathways, biosynthetic mechanisms, pharmacokinetic properties, pharmacological effects in various diseases, toxicology, and clinical trials of leonurine. To facilitate a successful transition into clinical application, intensified efforts are required in several key areas: structural modifications of leonurine to optimize its properties, comprehensive pharmacokinetic assessments to understand its behavior within the body, thorough mechanistic studies to elucidate how it works at the molecular level, rigorous safety evaluations and toxicological investigations to ensure patient wellbeing, and meticulously conducted clinical trials to validate its efficacy and safety profile.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Siyu Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Chen Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Hailin Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Cheng Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Fu Peng
- Department of Pharmacology, Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Berkel C. Inducers and Inhibitors of Pyroptotic Death of Granulosa Cells in Models of Premature Ovarian Insufficiency and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Reprod Sci 2024:10.1007/s43032-024-01643-3. [PMID: 39026050 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-024-01643-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
Granulosa cells (GCs), the largest cell population and primary source of steroid hormones in the ovary, are the important somatic ovarian components. They have critical roles in folliculogenesis by supporting oocyte, facilitating its growth, and providing a microenvironment suitable for follicular development and oocyte maturation, thus having essential functions in maintaining female fertility and in reproductive health in general. Pyroptotic death of GCs and associated inflammation have been implicated in the pathogenesis of several reproductive disorders in females including Premature Ovarian Insufficiency (POI) and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). Here, I reviewed factors, either intrinsic or extrinsic, that induce or inhibit pyroptosis in GCs in various models of these disorders, both in vitro and in vivo, and also covered associated molecular mechanisms. Most of these studied factors influence NLRP3 inflammasome- and GSDMD (Gasdermin D)-mediated pyroptosis in GCs, compared to other inflammasomes and gasdermins (GSDMs). I conclude that a more complete mechanistic understanding of these factors in terms of GC pyroptosis is required to be able to develop novel strategies targeting inflammatory cell death in the ovary.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caglar Berkel
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Tokat Gaziosmanpasa University, Tokat, Türkiye.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
He Q, Wan S, Jiang M, Li W, Zhang Y, Zhang L, Wu M, Lin J, Zou L, Hu Y. Exploring the therapeutic potential of tonic Chinese herbal medicine for gynecological disorders: An updated review. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 329:118144. [PMID: 38583732 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.118144] [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: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Gynecological disorders have the characteristics of high incidence and recurrence rate, which sorely affects female's health. Since ancient times, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), especially tonic medicine (TM), has been used to deal with gynecological disorders and has unique advantages in effectiveness and safety. AIM OF THE REVIEW In this article, we aim to summarize the research progress of TMs in-vivo and in-vitro, including their formulas, single herbs, and compounds, for gynecological disorders treatment in recent years, and to offer a reference for further research on the treatment of gynecological disorders and their clinical application in the treatment of TMs. MATERIALS AND METHODS Relevant information on the therapeutic potential of TMs against gynecological disorders was collected from several scientific databases including Web of Science, PubMed, CNKI, Google Scholar and other literature sources. RESULTS So far, there are 46 different formulas, 3 single herbs, and 24 compounds used in the treatment of various gynecological disorders such as premature ovarian failure, endometriosis breast cancer, and so on. Many experimental results have shown that TMs can regulate apoptosis, invasion, migration, oxidative stress, and the immune system. In addition, the effect of TMs in gynecological disorders treatment may be due to the regulation of VEGF, PI3K-AKT, MAPK, NF-κB, and other signaling pathways. Apparently, TMs play an active role in the treatment of gynecological disorders by regulating these signaling pathways. CONCLUSION TMs have a curative effect on the prevention and treatment of gynecological disorders. It could relieve and treat gynecological disorders through a variety of pathways. Therefore, the appropriate TM treatment program makes it more possible to treat gynecological disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qizhi He
- School of Pharmacy, Zunyi Medical University, Guizhou, China; School of Preclinical Medicine, Chengdu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Shun Wan
- Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Mingli Jiang
- School of Pharmacy, Zunyi Medical University, Guizhou, China
| | - Wei Li
- School of Preclinical Medicine, Chengdu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- School of Preclinical Medicine, Chengdu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Lele Zhang
- School of Preclinical Medicine, Chengdu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Mengyao Wu
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhuzhou Qianjin Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Zhuzhou, China
| | - Jie Lin
- Clinical Medical College & Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Liang Zou
- School of Pharmacy, Zunyi Medical University, Guizhou, China; Key Laboratory of Coarse Cereal Processing of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Chengdu University, Chengdu, China.
| | - Yingfan Hu
- School of Preclinical Medicine, Chengdu University, Chengdu, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Wang M, Yang L, Sun G, Shao Y, Liu Y, Yang H, Wang Y, Zhang M, Shang Y, Gu X. Assessment of the Effect of Leonurine Hydrochloride in a Mouse Model of PCOS by Gene Expression Profiling. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:507. [PMID: 38674441 PMCID: PMC11050333 DOI: 10.3390/genes15040507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2024] [Revised: 04/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine disease commonly associated with metabolic disorders in females. Leonurine hydrochloride (Leo) plays an important role in regulating immunity, tumours, uterine smooth muscle, and ovarian function. However, the effect of Leo on PCOS has not been reported. Here, we used dehydroepiandrosterone to establish a mouse model of PCOS, and some mice were then treated with Leo by gavage. We found that Leo could improve the irregular oestros cycle of PCOS mice, reverse the significantly greater serum testosterone (T) and luteinising hormone (LH) levels, significantly reduce the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) level, and significantly increase the LH/FSH ratio of PCOS mice. Leo could also change the phenomenon of ovaries in PCOS mice presented with cystic follicular multiplication and a lacking corpus luteum. Transcriptome analysis identified 177 differentially expressed genes related to follicular development between the model and Leo groups. Notably, the cAMP signalling pathway, neuroactive ligand-receptor interactions, the calcium signalling pathway, the ovarian steroidogenesis pathway, and the Lhcgr, Star, Cyp11a, Hsd17b7, Camk2b, Calml4, and Phkg1 genes may be most related to improvements in hormone levels and the numbers of ovarian cystic follicles and corpora lutea in PCOS mice treated by Leo, which provides a reference for further study of the mechanism of Leo.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mengmeng Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832000, China; (M.W.); (G.S.); (Y.S.); (Y.L.); (H.Y.); (Y.W.); (M.Z.); (Y.S.)
| | - Li Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi 830052, China;
| | - Guojie Sun
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832000, China; (M.W.); (G.S.); (Y.S.); (Y.L.); (H.Y.); (Y.W.); (M.Z.); (Y.S.)
| | - Yongbin Shao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832000, China; (M.W.); (G.S.); (Y.S.); (Y.L.); (H.Y.); (Y.W.); (M.Z.); (Y.S.)
| | - Yuran Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832000, China; (M.W.); (G.S.); (Y.S.); (Y.L.); (H.Y.); (Y.W.); (M.Z.); (Y.S.)
| | - Huiying Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832000, China; (M.W.); (G.S.); (Y.S.); (Y.L.); (H.Y.); (Y.W.); (M.Z.); (Y.S.)
| | - Yan Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832000, China; (M.W.); (G.S.); (Y.S.); (Y.L.); (H.Y.); (Y.W.); (M.Z.); (Y.S.)
| | - Mengyuan Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832000, China; (M.W.); (G.S.); (Y.S.); (Y.L.); (H.Y.); (Y.W.); (M.Z.); (Y.S.)
| | - Yunxia Shang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832000, China; (M.W.); (G.S.); (Y.S.); (Y.L.); (H.Y.); (Y.W.); (M.Z.); (Y.S.)
| | - Xinli Gu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832000, China; (M.W.); (G.S.); (Y.S.); (Y.L.); (H.Y.); (Y.W.); (M.Z.); (Y.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Wu QR, Yang H, Zhang HD, Cai YJ, Zheng YX, Fang H, Wang ZF, Kuang SJ, Rao F, Huang HL, Deng CY, Chen CB. IP3R2-mediated Ca 2+ release promotes LPS-induced cardiomyocyte pyroptosis via the activation of NLRP3/Caspase-1/GSDMD pathway. Cell Death Discov 2024; 10:91. [PMID: 38378646 PMCID: PMC10879485 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-024-01840-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 01/27/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Pyroptosis plays a crucial role in sepsis, and the abnormal handling of myocyte calcium (Ca2+) has been associated with cardiomyocyte pyroptosis. Specifically, the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor type 2 (IP3R2) is a Ca2+ release channel in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). However, the specific role of IP3R2 in sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy (SIC) has not yet been determined. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the underlying mechanism by which IP3R2 channel-mediated Ca2+ signaling contributes to lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced cardiac pyroptosis. The SIC model was established in rats by intraperitoneal injection of LPS (10 mg/kg). Cardiac dysfunction was assessed using echocardiography, and the protein expression of relevant signaling pathways was analyzed using ELISA, RT-qPCR, and western blot. Small interfering RNAs (siRNA) and an inhibitor were used to explore the role of IP3R2 in neonatal rat cardiomyocytes (NRCMs) stimulated by LPS in vitro. LPS-induced NLRP3 overexpression and GSDMD-mediated pyroptosis in the rats' heart. Treatment with the NLRP3 inhibitor MCC950 alleviated LPS-induced cardiomyocyte pyroptosis. Furthermore, LPS increased ATP-induced intracellular Ca2+ release and IP3R2 expression in NRCMs. Inhibiting IP3R activity with xestospongin C (XeC) or knocking down IP3R2 reversed LPS-induced intracellular Ca2+ release. Additionally, inhibiting IP3R2 reversed LPS-induced pyroptosis by suppressing the NLRP3/Caspase-1/GSDMD pathway. We also found that ER stress and IP3R2-mediated Ca2+ release mutually regulated each other, contributing to cardiomyocyte pyroptosis. IP3R2 promotes NLRP3-mediated pyroptosis by regulating ER Ca2+ release, and the mutual regulation of IP3R2 and ER stress further promotes LPS-induced pyroptosis in cardiomyocytes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qing-Rui Wu
- School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, 510006, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacology, Research Center of Medical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 510080, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Hui Yang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacology, Research Center of Medical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 510080, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Hui-Dan Zhang
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, 250012, Jinan, China
| | - Yong-Jiang Cai
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 510515, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yan-Xiang Zheng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacology, Research Center of Medical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 510080, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Heng Fang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zi-Fan Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 510515, Guangzhou, China
| | - Su-Juan Kuang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacology, Research Center of Medical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 510080, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Fang Rao
- School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, 510006, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacology, Research Center of Medical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 510080, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Huan-Lei Huang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chun-Yu Deng
- School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, 510006, Guangzhou, China.
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacology, Research Center of Medical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 510080, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 510515, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Chun-Bo Chen
- School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, 510006, Guangzhou, China.
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Shenzhen People's Hospital, The Second Clinical Medical College of Jinan University, The First Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology, 518000, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Cui YH, Ma L, Hai DM, Chi YN, Dong WJ, Lan XB, Wei W, Tian MM, Peng XD, Yu JQ, Liu N. Asperosaponin VI protects against spermatogenic dysfunction in mice by regulating testicular cell proliferation and sex hormone disruption. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 320:117463. [PMID: 37981113 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.117463] [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: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Studies have found that the causes of male infertility are complex, and spermatogenic dysfunction accounts for 30%-65% of male infertility causes, which is the main cause of male infertility. Asperosaponin VI (ASVI) is a saponin extracted from the traditional Chinese herb Dipsacus asperoides C.Y.Cheng & T.M.Ai. However, the precise protective impact and underlying mechanism of ASVI in the therapy of spermatogenic dysfunction remain unknown. AIM OF THE STUDY To investigate the impact of ASVI on the spermatogenic dysfunction induced by cytoxan (CTX) in mice, as well as explore any potential mechanisms. MATERIALS AND METHODS Potential ASVI targets were screened using the Pharmapper and Uniprot databases, while genes related to spermatogenic dysfunction were collected from the GeneCards database. The String and Cytoscape databases were then used for PPI analysis for the common targets of ASVI and spermatogenic dysfunction. Meanwhile, the Metascape database was used for KEGG and GO analysis. In vivo experiments, spermatogenic dysfunction was induced in male mice by intraperitoneal administration of CTX (80 mg/kg). To demonstrate the possible protective effects of ASVI on reproductive organs, CTX-induced spermatogenic dysfunction mice with different dosages of ASVI (0.8, 4, 20 mg/kg per day) treatment were collected and gonad weight was detected. The testis and epididymis were detected again by H&E. To assess the impact of ASVI on fertility in male mice, we analyzed sperm quality, serum hormones, sexual behavior, and fertility. The mechanism was investigated using WB, IF, IHC, and Co-IP technology. RESULTS The ASVI exhibited interactions with 239 associated targets. Furthermore, 1555 targets associated with spermatogenic dysfunction were predicted, and further PPI analysis identified 6 key targets. Among them, the EGFR gene exhibited the highest degree of connection and was at the core of the network. Based on the GO and KEGG enrichment analysis, ASVI may affect spermatogenic dysfunction through the EGFR pathway. In vivo experiments, ASVI significantly improved CTX-induced damage to male fertility and reproductive organs, increasing sperm quality. At the same time, ASVI can resist CTX-induced testicular cell damage by increasing p-EGFR, p-ERK, PCNA, and p-Rb in the testis and by promoting the interaction of CyclinD1 with CDK4. In addition, ASVI can also regulate sex hormone disorders and protect male fertility. CONCLUSIONS ASVI improves CTX-induced spermatogenesis dysfunction by activating the EGFR signaling pathway and regulating sex hormone homeostasis, which may be a new potential protective agent for male spermatogenic dysfunction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Hong Cui
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Hui Medicine Modern Engineering Research Center and Collaborative Innovation Center, School of Basic Medical Science, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Lin Ma
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Hui Medicine Modern Engineering Research Center and Collaborative Innovation Center, School of Basic Medical Science, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Dong-Mei Hai
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Hui Medicine Modern Engineering Research Center and Collaborative Innovation Center, School of Basic Medical Science, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Yan-Nan Chi
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Hui Medicine Modern Engineering Research Center and Collaborative Innovation Center, School of Basic Medical Science, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Wen-Jing Dong
- Ningxia Pharmaceutical Inspection and Research Institute, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Xiao-Bing Lan
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Hui Medicine Modern Engineering Research Center and Collaborative Innovation Center, School of Basic Medical Science, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Wei Wei
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Hui Medicine Modern Engineering Research Center and Collaborative Innovation Center, School of Basic Medical Science, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Miao-Miao Tian
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Hui Medicine Modern Engineering Research Center and Collaborative Innovation Center, School of Basic Medical Science, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Xiao-Dong Peng
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Hui Medicine Modern Engineering Research Center and Collaborative Innovation Center, School of Basic Medical Science, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Jian-Qiang Yu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Hui Medicine Modern Engineering Research Center and Collaborative Innovation Center, School of Basic Medical Science, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Ning Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Hui Medicine Modern Engineering Research Center and Collaborative Innovation Center, School of Basic Medical Science, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Qian Y, Qian G, Ni H, Zhu D, Gu W, Cai X. Exploratory study on the mechanism of necrotic effect of nourishing cells in the context of genital tract infection in premature rupture of membranes. Medicine (Baltimore) 2023; 102:e36148. [PMID: 38115314 PMCID: PMC10727640 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000036148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
To explore the mechanism of necrotic effect of nourishing cells in the context of genital tract infection in premature rupture of membranes (PROM). One hundred eight patients with PROM treated at our hospital from June 2020 to June 2022 were selected as the PROM group. Simultaneously, 108 cases of normal full-term pregnant women were chosen as the control group. Western blot analysis was performed to measure the relative expression levels of cysteinyl aspartate specific proteinase-1 (Caspase-1), cysteinyl aspartate specific proteinase-3 (Caspase-3), nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3), and interleukin (IL)-1β proteins, which are associated with necrosis of placental nourishing cells, in the placenta of both groups. TUNEL staining was used to detect the number of apoptotic placental nourishing cells. The differences in necrotic factors of placental nourishing cells were analyzed between full-term and preterm cases in the PROM group, as well as among patients with different genital tract infections. The apoptotic count of placental nourishing cells in the PROM group was 58.46 ± 11.26 cells/field, which was markedly higher than that of the control group (P < .05). The relative expression levels of the necrotic factors Caspase-1, Caspase-3, NLRP3, and IL-1β proteins in placental nourishing cells of the PROM group were 1.32 ± 0.26, 1.19 ± 0.30, 1.29 ± 0.28, and 1.23 ± 0.24, respectively. These values were significantly higher than those of the control group (P < .05). The relative expression levels of the necrotic factors Caspase-1, Caspase-3, NLRP3, and IL-1β proteins in placental nourishing cells were compared between full-term and preterm patients in the PROM group (P > .05). The relative expression levels of the necrotic factors Caspase-1, Caspase-3, NLRP3, and IL-1β proteins in placental nourishing cells were higher in patients with multiple genital tract infections compared to those with single infections or no infections in the PROM group (P < .05). PROM is associated with a significant upregulation of placental nourishing cell apoptosis and necrotic factors, including Caspase-1, Caspase-3, NLRP3, and IL-1β proteins. This upregulation is correlated with the presence of genital tract infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yunying Qian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Changshu Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Guiying Qian
- Department of Pharmacy, Changshu Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Haiyan Ni
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Changshu Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Danying Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Changshu Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Weiqun Gu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Changshu Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ximei Cai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Changshu Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Cao Q, Wang Q, Wu X, Zhang Q, Huang J, Chen Y, You Y, Qiang Y, Huang X, Qin R, Cao G. A literature review: mechanisms of antitumor pharmacological action of leonurine alkaloid. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1272546. [PMID: 37818195 PMCID: PMC10560730 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1272546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Leonurine refers to the desiccated aerial portion of a plant in the Labiatae family. The primary bioactive constituent of Leonurine is an alkaloid, Leonurine alkaloid (Leo), renowned for its substantial therapeutic efficacy in the treatment of gynecological disorders, in addition to its broad-spectrum antineoplastic capabilities. Over recent years, the pharmacodynamic mechanisms of Leo have garnered escalating scholarly interest. Leo exhibits its anticancer potential by means of an array of mechanisms, encompassing the inhibition of neoplastic cell proliferation, induction of both apoptosis and autophagy, and the containment of oncogenic cell invasion and migration. The key signal transduction pathways implicated in these processes include the Tumor Necrosis Factor-Related Apoptosis-Inducing Ligand (TRAIL), the Phosphoinositide3-Kinase/Serine/Threonine Protein Kinase (PI3K/AKT), the Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 (STAT3), and the Mitogen-Activated Protein/Extracellular Signal-Regulated Kinase (MAP/ERK). This paper commences with an exploration of the principal oncogenic cellular behaviors influenced by Leo and the associated signal transduction pathways, thereby scrutinizing the mechanisms of Leo in the antineoplastic sequence of events. The intention is to offer theoretical reinforcement for the elucidation of more profound mechanisms underpinning Leo's anticancer potential and correlating pharmaceutical development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Cao
- Department of Earth Sciences, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
- School of Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, China
| | - Qi Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Xinyan Wu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Qi Zhang
- Undergraduate Department, Taishan University, Taian, China
| | - Jinghan Huang
- Undergraduate Department, Sichuan Conservatory of Music, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuquan Chen
- Institute of Medical Information/Library, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yanwei You
- Division of Sports Science and Physical Education, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Yi Qiang
- Department of Earth Sciences, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Xufeng Huang
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Ronggao Qin
- Department of Earth Sciences, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Guangzhu Cao
- Department of Earth Sciences, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Yu Y, Zhou S, Wang Y, Di S, Wang Y, Huang X, Chen Y. Leonurine alleviates acetaminophen-induced acute liver injury by regulating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway in mice. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 120:110375. [PMID: 37267857 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.110375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 05/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Leonurine (Leo) is a natural alkaloid isolated from the herb Leonurus japonicus Houtt. (Leonuri) that has been shown to inhibit oxidative stress and inflammation. However, the role and mechanism of Leo in acetaminophen (APAP)-induced acute liver injury (ALI) remain unknown. In this study, we investigated the protective effect of Leo against APAP-induced ALI and elucidated the molecular mechanism. Here, we showed that the damage to mouse primary hepatocytes (MPHs) induced by APAP was attenuated by treatment with Leo, which promoted proliferation and inhibited oxidative stress injury, and Leo significantly improved APAP-induced ALI in mice. Leo could protect against APAP-induced ALI by reducing serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine transaminase (ALT) levels, hepatic histopathological damage, liver cell necrosis, inflammation, and oxidative stress-induced damage in vivo and in vitro. Moreover, the results indicated that Leo relieved APAP-induced liver cell necrosis by reducing the expression of Bax and cleaved caspase-3 and increasing Bcl-2 expression. Leo alleviated APAP-induced oxidative stress-induced damage by activating the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway, which facilitated Nrf2 nuclear translocation and upregulated oxidative stress-related protein expression in liver tissues. Moreover, the results suggested that APAP-induced inflammation in the liver was suppressed by Leo by suppressing the Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) pathways. In addition, Leo facilitated the activation of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT signaling pathway in the liver tissue of ALI mice. Network pharmacology, molecular docking, and western blotting showed that PI3K was a potential target of Leo in the treatment of ALI. Molecular docking and cellular thermal shift assay (CETSA) indicated that Leo could stably bind to the PI3K protein. In conclusion, Leo attenuated ALI, and reversed liver cell necrosis, the inflammatory response and oxidative stress-induced damage by regulating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yajie Yu
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Shizhe Zhou
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Institute of Nutrition and Health, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Shuting Di
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Yingluo Wang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Xin Huang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Ying Chen
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266003, China.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Cao B, Wang Z, Zhang J, Fu J, Zhang Z, Du J, Deng T, Pang J, Yang M, Han J. A biophoton method for identifying the quality states of fresh Chinese herbs. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1140117. [PMID: 37021045 PMCID: PMC10067714 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1140117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The quality of Chinese herbs is the basis for ensuring their safety and efficacy. However, the quality evaluation system is imperfect. In particular, there is a lack of quality evaluation methods for fresh Chinese herbs during growth. The biophoton is a common phenomenon and provides complete information about the interior of the living system, which is consistent with the holistic concept of traditional Chinese medicine. Therefore, we aim to correlate the biophoton characteristics with the quality states to find the biophoton parameters that can characterize the quality states of fresh Chinese herbs. Methods: The biophoton characteristics of motherwort and safflower were measured and characterized by the counts per second (CPS) in the steady state and the initial intensity (I0) and coherent time (T) of delayed luminescence. The active ingredient content was measured by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC). The pigment content of motherwort leaves was measured by UV spectrophotometry. The t-test and correlation analysis were performed on the experimental results. Results: The CPS and I0 of motherwort and I0 of safflower showed a significant downward trend during the growth process, and their active ingredient content showed a trend that increased and then decreased. The CPS, I0, and the content of active ingredients and pigments in a healthy state were significantly higher than those in a poor state, while T showed the opposite results. The CPS and I0 were all significantly and positively correlated with the content of active ingredients and pigments, while the T of motherwort showed the opposite results. Conclusion: It is feasible to identify the quality states of fresh Chinese herbs by using their biophoton characteristics. Both CPS and I0 have better correlations with the quality states and can be considered characteristic parameters of the quality of fresh Chinese herbs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Baorui Cao
- Biomedical Sciences College and Shandong Medicinal Biotechnology Centre, First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Biotechnology Drugs, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Zhiying Wang
- Biomedical Sciences College and Shandong Medicinal Biotechnology Centre, First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Biotechnology Drugs, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Jiayi Zhang
- Biomedical Sciences College and Shandong Medicinal Biotechnology Centre, First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Jialei Fu
- Shandong Academy of Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Zhongwen Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Jinxin Du
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Tingting Deng
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Jingxiang Pang
- Biomedical Sciences College and Shandong Medicinal Biotechnology Centre, First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Meina Yang
- Biomedical Sciences College and Shandong Medicinal Biotechnology Centre, First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Biotechnology Drugs, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
- *Correspondence: Jinxiang Han, ; Meina Yang,
| | - Jinxiang Han
- Biomedical Sciences College and Shandong Medicinal Biotechnology Centre, First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Biotechnology Drugs, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
- *Correspondence: Jinxiang Han, ; Meina Yang,
| |
Collapse
|