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Li Z, Yin S, Feng J, Gao X, Yang Q, Zhu F. Acupuncture combined with Chinese herbal medicine in the treatment of perimenopausal insomnia: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Medicine (Baltimore) 2023; 102:e35942. [PMID: 37960761 PMCID: PMC10637479 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000035942] [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: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Perimenopausal insomnia (PMI) is a relatively common menopausal symptom that can cause serious problems for the women themselves and their families. Today, the world is facing the trend and challenges of an aging population. It is reported that about 1.5 million women worldwide enter menopause every year, with sleep disorder identified as a core symptom. The efficacy of acupuncture combined with traditional Chinese medicine for treating PMI has been recognized by patients and doctors. METHODS We searched 8 databases to identify 15 randomized controlled trials evaluating the effects of acupuncture combined with traditional Chinese medicine on sleep in patients with PMI compared with Western medicine alone. Subsequently, data extraction and analysis were performed to assess the quality and risk of bias of the study method design, and a meta-analysis of the data was performed. RESULTS This study included 15 randomized controlled trials involving 1188 patients with PMI. The results show that acupuncture combined with traditional Chinese medicine seems to be more effective than Western medicine in the treatment of PMI: efficiency (RR: 1.18; 95% CI: 1.08, 1.29; P = .001); the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) (WMD: -2.77; 95% CI: 4.15-1.39; P < .0001); follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) (WMD: -31.45; 95% CI: 42.7-20.2; P < .001) and the Hamilton Anxiety Score (HAMA) (WMD: -2.62, 95% CI: -3.93, -1.32; P < .0001). Compared with western medicine, E2 (WMD: 5.07; 95% CI: 5.78-15.92; P = .36) and LH (WMD: -4.86; 95% CI: 11.5-1.78; P = .151) had no difference. CONCLUSION The current analysis results show that acupuncture combined with Chinese medicine seems to have a more positive effect than western medicine alone in improving sleep and FSHF in PMI patients, but no difference has been found in improving E2 and LH. This study provides a basis for acupuncture combined with Chinese medicine to treat PMI. However, due to the higher risk of evaluation in included studies, more rigorous randomized controlled trials and higher quality studies are needed to validate included studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhao Li
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Shao Yin
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Jie Feng
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Xu Gao
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Qicheng Yang
- Department of Medical Information Engineering, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Fengya Zhu
- Zigong First People’s Hospital, Zigong, China
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Dynamic Evolution of Cardiac Function and Glucose and Lipid Metabolism in Ovariectomized Rats and the Intervention Effect of Erxian Decoction. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2022; 2022:8090868. [PMID: 36573083 PMCID: PMC9789914 DOI: 10.1155/2022/8090868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Aims Abnormal changes in cardiac function have been reported in menopausal women, but there are few clinical studies on this topic. Erxian decoction (EXD) is a classic prescription that is widely used in the treatment of female menopausal diseases. The purpose of this study was to investigate the dynamic evolution of cardiac function and glucose and lipid metabolism in ovariectomized (OVX) rats and the intervention effect of EXD. Materials and Methods The OVX climacteric rat model was established by bilateral ovariectomy. After successful modeling, the rats were randomly divided into four groups: the sham operation (SHAM) group (equal volumes of purified water), OVX group (equal volumes of purified water), estradiol (E2) group (1.8 × 10-4 g/kg), and EXD group (9 g/kg). Each group of rats was treated for 16 weeks. At the 4th, 8th, 12th, and 16th weeks after treatment, the cardiac function of the rats in each group was evaluated by ultrasound. The coaxial method was used to measure blood pressure (BP). Serum endothelin-1 (ET-1) and angiotensin-2 (Ang II) levels were determined by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The strip method was used to measure fasting blood glucose (FBG). The serum total cholesterol (TC) and triglyceride (TG) levels of rats were measured with the oxidase method. Direct methods were used to measure serum high-density lipoprotein (HDL-C) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL-C) levels. At week 16 of dosing, serum E2 levels were determined by E2 radioimmunoassay. The myocardium and uterus of the rats in each group were stained with HE (hematoxylin-eosin). The ultrastructure of the rat myocardium was observed by electron microscopy. Results After the 16th week of treatment, the serum E2 level decreased (P < 0.05), and the uterus was atrophied in OVX rats. The cardiac ejection fraction (EF%) decreased at 4 weeks after treatment, and systolic and diastolic function decreased after 12 weeks. After the 16th week, the EF%, which reflects the "pump" function of the heart, decreased significantly (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01). At the 4th, 8th, 12th, and 16th weeks of treatment, the systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and mean pressure (MBP) of the rats in the OVX group increased with time (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01). The serum ET-1 and Ang II levels of rats in the OVX group increased (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01). In the OVX group, FBG was increased (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01), and blood lipids, especially LDL-C, were significantly increased (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01). After the 16th week of treatment, the myocardial tissue of OVX rats showed obvious pathological changes. EXD significantly increased serum E2 levels (P < 0.01), decreased ET-1 and Ang II levels (P < 0.01), reduced the cardiac function risk factors BP, FBG, and blood lipids, and significantly improved cardiac function and structural changes in OVX rats (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01). Conclusions EXD can improve abnormal cardiac structure and function in OVX rats.
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The Effects of Er Xian Decoction Combined with Baduanjin Exercise on Bone Mineral Density, Lower Limb Balance Function, and Mental Health in Women with Postmenopausal Osteoporosis: A Randomized Controlled Trial. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2022; 2022:8602753. [PMID: 35815264 PMCID: PMC9262512 DOI: 10.1155/2022/8602753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Background Postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMOP) is a common disease in older women that can severely jeopardize their health. Previous studies have demonstrated the effect of Er xian decoction (EXD) or Baduanjin exercise (BE) on PMOP. However, reports on the effect of EXD combined with BE on PMOP are limited. This study aimed to investigate the impact of EXD combined with BE on bone mineral density (BMD), lower limb balance, and mental health in women with PMOP. Methods A 1 : 1 : 1 simple randomization technique was employed. Fifty participants with postmenopausal osteoporosis were allocated to three groups: the EXD group (EXD = 15); the BE group (BE = 18); and the combined group (EXD + BE = 17). After both 8 weeks and 16 weeks of intervention treatment, participants improved significantly with respect to BMD and the one-leg standing test (OLST), Berg balance scale (BBS), timed up and go (TUG) test, self-anxiety scale (SAS), and self-rating depression scale (SDS). The results were used to compare the effect of the intervention on BMD, lower limb balance function, and mental health in patients with PMOP. Results Compared to the EXD and BE groups, the EXD + BE group showed the strongest effects on BMD, lower limb balance function, and mental health (p < 0.01). A correlation between BMD and lower limb balance and mental health was noted in the EXD + BE group. The change in mental health (SAS score) was correlated with BMD (femoral neck) improvement. Conclusions The present study demonstrates that EXD combined with BE (EXD + BE) may have a therapeutic advantage over both monotherapies for treating BMD, lower limb balance function, and mental health in patients with PMOP. The feasibility of the approach for a large-scale RCT was also confirmed. Er xian decoction combined with Baduanjin exercise (EXD + BE) might offer a viable treatment alternative for participants with postmenopausal osteoporosis given its promising effects in disease control and treatment, with good efficacy and safety profiles.
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Kushalan S, Khyahrii AS, Kini S, Hegde S. Curculigo orchioides Gaertn.: An Overview of Its Effects on Human Health. JOURNAL OF HEALTH AND ALLIED SCIENCES NU 2022. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-1750319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Curculigo orchioides, commonly called “Kali Musli,” is an endangered medicinal plant commonly found in Asian countries such as India, Japan, China, and Nepal. The plant holds a significant position in Ayurvedic and the Chinese traditional medicine system; it is documented as an aphrodisiac herb. The plant is also reported to be used in the treatment for asthma and jaundice. The botany, traditional uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacological activities to evaluate the plant's importance and relevant information are reviewed and summarized. We discern that a total of 61 phytochemicals are identified and reported in C. orchioides. These belong to the various phytochemical group of glycosides, lignans, polysaccharides, alkaloids, saponins, triterpenes, and aliphatic compounds. The most explored bioactive compound is a phenolic glycoside, curculigoside, isolated from the plant's rhizome. In vitro and in vivo research is conducted globally to provide primary and robust evidence to support this herbal medicine's traditional uses. A large lacuna regarding the mechanisms involved in the biological activity of the plant is evident. There is a need to conduct in-depth studies to understand the relationship between traditional and modern pharmacological uses of C. orchioides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharanya Kushalan
- Division of Bioresource and Biotechnology, NITTE (Deemed to be University), NITTE University Centre for Science Education and Research NUCSER, Deralakatte, Mangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Aloysius S. Khyahrii
- Division of Bioresource and Biotechnology, NITTE (Deemed to be University), NITTE University Centre for Science Education and Research NUCSER, Deralakatte, Mangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Sudarshan Kini
- Division of Nanobiotechnology, NITTE (Deemed to be University), NITTE University Centre for Science Education and Research NUCSER, Deralakatte, Mangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Smitha Hegde
- Division of Bioresource and Biotechnology, NITTE (Deemed to be University), NITTE University Centre for Science Education and Research NUCSER, Deralakatte, Mangalore, Karnataka, India
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Peng Z, Xu R, You Q. Role of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Bone Regeneration and Osteoporosis. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:911326. [PMID: 35711635 PMCID: PMC9194098 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.911326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
According to World Health Organization (WHO), osteoporosis is a systematic bone disability marked by reduced bone mass and microarchitectural degeneration of osseous cells, which leads to increased bones feebleness and fractures vulnerability. It is a polygenetic, physiological bone deformity that frequently leads to osteoporotic fractures and raises the risk of fractures in minimal trauma. Additionally, the molecular changes that cause osteoporosis are linked to decreased fracture repair and delayed bone regeneration. Bones have the ability to regenerate as part of the healing mechanism after an accident or trauma, including musculoskeletal growth and ongoing remodeling throughout adulthood. The principal treatment approaches for bone loss illnesses, such as osteoporosis, are hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and bisphosphonates. In this review, we searched literature regarding the Traditional Chinese medicines (TCM) in osteoporosis and bone regeneration. The literature results are summarized in this review for osteoporosis and bone regeneration. Traditional Chinese medicines (TCM) have grown in popularity as a result of its success in curing ailments while causing minimal adverse effects. Natural Chinese medicine has already been utilized to cure various types of orthopedic illnesses, notably osteoporosis, bone fractures and rheumatism with great success. TCM is a discipline of conventional remedy that encompasses herbal medication, massage (tui na), acupuncture, food, and exercise (qigong) therapy. It is based on more than 2,500 years of Chinese healthcare profession. This article serves as a comprehensive review summarizing the osteoporosis, bone regeneration and the traditional Chinese medicines used since ancient times for the management of osteoporosis and bone regeneration.
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Wang Y, Lou XT, Shi YH, Tong Q, Zheng GQ. Erxian decoction, a Chinese herbal formula, for menopausal syndrome: An updated systematic review. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2019; 234:8-20. [PMID: 30658181 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2019.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2018] [Revised: 01/14/2019] [Accepted: 01/14/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Erxian decoction (EXD), a famous Chinese herbal prescription, consists of Rhizoma Curculiginis, Herba Epimedii, Radix Morindae Officinalis, Radix Angelicae Sinensis, Cortex Phellodendri, Rhizoma Anemarrhenae, all of which are recorded in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia. OBJECTIVE To conduct an updated systematic and meta-analysis investigating efficacy and safety of EXD for menopausal syndrome. METHODS An electronic search was conducted in eight databases from inception until July 2018. Randomized controlled trials with risk-of-bias score ≥ 7 according to the Cochrane Back Review Group were included for analyses. All participants with a diagnosis of menopausal syndrome met the established criteria. The treatment group was EXD monotherapy or adjunct therapy. Comparators were placebo, hormone replace therapy, hormone plus nonhormonal agents, nonhormonal agents and no treatment. The primary outcome measurements were the Kupperman index, total hot flush scores, total menopause rating scale (MRS) scores and total menopause-specific quality of life (MENQOL) scores. The secondary outcomes were total clinical effective rate, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) syndrome scores, Hamilton depression (HAMD) scale scores, self-rating depression scale (SDS) scores, self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS) scores, athens insomnia scale (AIS) scores, serological indicators, blood pressure, and adverse events. RevMan 5.3 Software was used for data analyses. GRADE system was used to assess the level of evidence. RESULTS Sixteen eligible studies with 1594 subjects were identified. Five studies showed EXD was contradictory results according to Kupperman index of menopausal syndrome compared with hormone. One study showed EXD significantly improved total hot flush scores, total MRS scores and total MENQOL scores compared with placebo (P < 0.05). Meta-analysis of 10 EXD monotherapy or 2 paratherapy studies showed that both can significantly improve total effective rate compared with hormone (P < 0.05); 3 studies showed that EXD plus hormone significantly reduces the TCM syndrome scores, HAMD scale scores, SDS scores and SAS scores compared with hormone (P < 0.05). One study showed a significant effect of EXD for reducing AIS scores compared with hormone (P < 0.05); 7 studies showed contradictory effects for improving serological indicators compared with hormone. Two studies reported adverse effects, whereas the other studies did not mention. The quality of the evidence of primary outcomes was moderate to high according to the GRADE profiler. CONCLUSIONS The present findings do not allow an assessment of the evidence because the low-quality studies included cannot be reproduced. However, we identified an area, which is worthy of further research. Rigorous RCTs are still needed in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Wang
- Department of Neurology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, China.
| | - Xiao-Ting Lou
- Department of Neurology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, China.
| | - Yi-Hua Shi
- Department of Neurology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, China.
| | - Qiang Tong
- Department of Neurology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, China.
| | - Guo-Qing Zheng
- Department of Neurology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, China.
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Wang S, Lin H, Cong W. Chinese Medicines Improve Perimenopausal Symptoms Induced by Surgery, Chemoradiotherapy, or Endocrine Treatment for Breast Cancer. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:174. [PMID: 30930771 PMCID: PMC6428993 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.00174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2018] [Accepted: 02/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The application of surgery, chemoradiotherapy, and endocrine treatment successfully increases survival rates of breast cancer patients. However, perimenopausal symptoms, the main side effects of these treatments, often afflict patients and reduce their quality of life. Perimenopausal symptoms include vasomotor symptoms, sleep problems, arthromuscular symptoms, and osteoporosis. Currently, there are no satisfactory treatments for perimenopausal symptoms that result from these treatments. Therefore, alternative and complementary therapies including herbal medicines represented by Chinese medicines (CMs), acupuncture, massage, and psychotherapy are increasingly being expected and explored. In this paper, we review the effects and potentials of several CM formulae, along with some active ingredients or fractions from CMs, Chinese herbal extracts, and other herbal medicines, which have drawn attention for improving perimenopausal symptoms in breast cancer patients. We also elaborate their possible mechanisms. Moreover, further studies for evaluation of standardized clinical efficacy should be scientifically well-designed and continuously performed to investigate the efficacy and mechanisms of CMs for perimenopausal symptoms due to breast cancer therapy. The safety and value of estrogen-containing CMs for breast cancer should also be clarified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuo Wang
- Department of Oncology of Integrative Chinese and Western Medicine, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Hongsheng Lin
- Department of Oncology, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Weihong Cong
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Diseases, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
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The protective effect of Er-Xian decoction against myocardial injury in menopausal rat model. BMC COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2018; 18:245. [PMID: 30176849 PMCID: PMC6122672 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-018-2311-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2018] [Accepted: 08/22/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Background Er-Xian decoction (EXD), a formula of Chinese medicine, is often used to treat menopausal syndrome in China. The aim of the present study was to explore the potential cardioprotective mechanism of EXD against myocardial injury in an ovariectomy-induced menopausal rat model. Methods We divided the female Wistar rats into ovariectomy group and sham operation group (SHAM group). The ovariectomized (OVX) rats received treatment of vehicle (OVX group), EXD (EXD group) or 17β-estradiol (E2 group). After 12-week of treatment, the level of estradiol in serum was detected using an electrochemiluminescence immunoassay, and electrophysiologic changes in myocardial action potentials (AP) were evaluated using intracellular microelectrode technique. Changes in the histopathology of the left ventricle and the ultrastructure of the cardiomyocytes were observed by hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining and transmission electronmicroscopy to assess myocardial injury. Microarrays were applied for the evaluation of gene expression profiles in ventricular muscle of the OVX and EXD rats. Further pathway analyses of the differential expression genes were carried out using the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG). And real-time quantitative RT-PCR (qRT-PCR) was used for verification of the key findings. Results The results from electrophysiological and histomorphological observations demonstrated that EXD had a substantial myocardial protective effect. The EXD-treated rats, in comparison with the OVX rats, demonstrated up-regulated expression of 28 genes yet down-regulated expression of 157 genes in the ventricular muscle. The qRT-PCR assay validated all selected differential expression genes. The KEGG pathway analysis showed that the down-regulated genes were relevant to cardiomyopathy and myocardial contractility. EXD could decrease the mRNA expressions of cardiac myosin (Myh7, Myl2) and integrin (Itgb5) in the ventricular myocardium. Conclusion EXD had a protective effect against myocardial injury in OVX rats, and this cardioprotective effect may be associated with modulation of the expression of cardiac myosin or integrin at the mRNA level. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12906-018-2311-9) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Lin J, Lv T, Tian F, Wang Y, Wang M, Tang W, Gober HJ, Qiu X, Li D, Wang L. Chinese herbal formulas for postmenopausal osteoporosis: A review of preclinical evidence on animal studies and molecular mechanism. TRADITIONAL MEDICINE AND MODERN MEDICINE 2018. [DOI: 10.1142/s2575900018300023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Whether Chinese herbal formulas are effective in treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis remains unclear. The aim of this study is to explore the experimental evidence of both in vitro and in vivo preclinical studies using Chinese herbal formulas in postmenopausal osteoporosis. Searches were applied to various databases with relevant keywords. Original in vivo and in vitro studies using Chinese herbal formulas to treat postmenopausal osteoporosis, and with full text available, were included. Er-Xian Decoction, Bu-Shen-Ning-Xin Decoction, Qing E Formula, Liuwei Dihuang Wan, and Xian-Ling-Gu-Bao Decoction, the most commonly studied formulas, were selected from the pool of Chinese medicine. The preclinical data indicated the potential use of Chinese herbal formulas in postmenopausal osteoporosis. The underlying mechanisms included bone morphogenetic protein (BMP), Wnt/[Formula: see text]-catenin, extracellular-signal-regulated kinase/c-Jun [Formula: see text] terminal kinase/mitogen-activated protein kinase (ERK/JNK/MAPK), estrogen receptor (ER), and osteoprotegerin/receptor activator of nuclear factor [Formula: see text]B ligand (OPG/RANKL) signaling pathways. This study demonstrated the anti-osteoporotic effect of Chinese herbal formulas targeting different pathways in bone metabolism. Further study with adequate sample size and follow-up time, appropriate controls, and optimal blinding is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Lin
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital & Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P. R. China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive, Endocrine-Related Diseases, Shanghai 200011, P. R. China
- The Academy of Integrative Medicine of Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Tian Lv
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital & Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P. R. China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive, Endocrine-Related Diseases, Shanghai 200011, P. R. China
- The Academy of Integrative Medicine of Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Fubo Tian
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital & Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P. R. China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive, Endocrine-Related Diseases, Shanghai 200011, P. R. China
- The Academy of Integrative Medicine of Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital & Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P. R. China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive, Endocrine-Related Diseases, Shanghai 200011, P. R. China
- The Academy of Integrative Medicine of Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Mingyan Wang
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital & Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P. R. China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive, Endocrine-Related Diseases, Shanghai 200011, P. R. China
- The Academy of Integrative Medicine of Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Wei Tang
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hans-Jürgen Gober
- Department of Pharmacy, Kepler University Clinic, Neuromed Campus, Linz, Austria
| | - Xuemin Qiu
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital & Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P. R. China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive, Endocrine-Related Diseases, Shanghai 200011, P. R. China
- The Academy of Integrative Medicine of Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Dajin Li
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital & Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P. R. China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive, Endocrine-Related Diseases, Shanghai 200011, P. R. China
- The Academy of Integrative Medicine of Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Ling Wang
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital & Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P. R. China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive, Endocrine-Related Diseases, Shanghai 200011, P. R. China
- The Academy of Integrative Medicine of Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
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Wang X, Wang GC, Rong J, Wang SW, Ng TB, Zhang YB, Lee KF, Zheng L, Wong HK, Yung KKL, Sze SCW. Identification of Steroidogenic Components Derived From Gardenia jasminoides Ellis Potentially Useful for Treating Postmenopausal Syndrome. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:390. [PMID: 29899696 PMCID: PMC5989419 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.00390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2017] [Accepted: 04/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Estrogen-stimulating principles have been demonstrated to relieve postmenopausal syndrome effectively. Gardenia jasminoides Ellis (GJE) is an herbal medicine possessing multiple pharmacological effects on human health with low toxicity. However, the therapeutic effects of GJE on the management of postmenopausal syndrome and its mechanism of action have not been fully elucidated. In this study, network pharmacology-based approaches were employed to examine steroidogenesis under the influence of GJE. In addition, the possibility of toxicity of GJE was ruled out and four probable active compounds were predicted. In parallel, a chromatographic fraction of GJE with estrogen-stimulating effect was identified and nine major compounds were isolated from this active fraction. Among the nine compounds, four of them were identified by network pharmacology, validating the use of network pharmacology to predict active compounds. Then the phenotypic approaches were utilized to verify that rutin, chlorogenic acid (CGA) and geniposidic acid (GA) exerted an estrogen-stimulating effect on ovarian granulosa cells. Furthermore, the results of target-based approaches indicated that rutin, CGA, and GA could up-regulate the FSHR-aromatase pathway in ovarian granulosa cells. The stimulation of estrogen production by rat ovarian granulosa cells under the influence of the three compounds underwent a decline when the follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) was blocked by antibodies against the receptor, indicating the involvement of FSHR in the estradiol-stimulating activity of the three compounds. The effects of the three compounds on estrogen biosynthesis- related gene expression level were further confirmed by Western blot assay. Importantly, the MTT results showed that exposure of breast cancer cells to the three compounds resulted in reduction of cell viability, demonstrating the cytotoxicity of the three compounds. Collectively, rutin, chlorogenic acid and geniposidic acid may contribute to the therapeutic potential of GJE for the treatment of postmenopausal syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueyu Wang
- School of Chinese Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Guo-Cai Wang
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Natural Products, College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jianhui Rong
- School of Chinese Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Shi Wei Wang
- School of Chinese Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Tzi Bun Ng
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yan Bo Zhang
- School of Chinese Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Kai Fai Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Lin Zheng
- School of Chinese Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Hei-Kiu Wong
- School of Chinese Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ken Kin Lam Yung
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Stephen Cho Wing Sze
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
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Wang A, Yang Q, Li Q, Wang X, Hao S, Wang J, Ren M. Ginkgo Biloba L. Extract Reduces H2O2-Induced Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells Cytotoxicity by Regulating Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase (MAPK) Signaling Pathways and Oxidative Stress. Med Sci Monit 2018; 24:3159-3167. [PMID: 29758019 PMCID: PMC5975070 DOI: 10.12659/msm.910718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The oxidative stress environment of pathological tissue has an adverse effect on the survival of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) transplantation. Ginkgo biloba L. extract (EGB) has a potent antioxidant effect. In this research, we assessed the protective effects of EGB and EGB-Containing Serum (EGB CS) on BMSCs against injury induced by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Material/Methods BMSCs were pretreated with EGB or EGB CS and treated with H2O2. The cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) method was utilized to detect cell viability. The DCFH-DA Fluorescent Kit method was used to detect intracellular ROS level. Malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and (CAT) were determined. The Hoechst staining assay and qRT-PCR assay were utilized to evaluate the effect of EGB on cell apoptosis. Mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) signaling pathway were detected by western blot analysis. Results Compared to the H2O2 group, the number of apoptotic cells in the EGB and EGB CS pretreated groups significantly decreased. The mRNA expression ratio of Bax/Bcl-2 was also decreased. EGB and EGB CS can reduce the production of ROS in BMSCs exposed to H2O2. SOD, GSH-Px and CAT activities were significantly higher compared with those with H2O2 group. Furthermore, EGB or EGB CS pretreatment decreased the protein levels of p-p38MAPK and p-JNK in BMSCs compared to the H2O2 group. Conclusions Our findings suggested that EGB and EGB CS have protective effect on BMSCs against oxidative stress injury and increase the survival rate of BMSCs transplantation by regulating p38MAPK and JNK signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ao Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China (mainland)
| | - Qiwei Yang
- Central Laboratory, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China (mainland)
| | - Qiuju Li
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China (mainland)
| | - Xiaonan Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China (mainland)
| | - Shuhong Hao
- Central Laboratory, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China (mainland)
| | - Jincheng Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China (mainland)
| | - Ming Ren
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China (mainland)
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Liu S, Sun Y, Li J, Dong J, Bian Q. Preparation of Herbal Medicine: Er-Xian Decoction and Er-Xian-containing Serum for In Vivo and In Vitro Experiments. J Vis Exp 2017. [PMID: 28605360 DOI: 10.3791/55654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Traditional herbal medicine, an alternative medicine in the clinical setting, has received increased attention in recent years. Before delivery to the body, an additional extraction procedure is commonly required to release the active constituents from raw herbs. Water decoction is a classical extraction procedure that is still broadly used in the clinical settings. Here, we propose a detailed protocol for er-xian decoction (EXD) in order to apply herbal decoctions to experimental studies. The calculation of an animal-appropriate dose is described, as well as the four main steps of EXD: soaking, water decoction, filtration, and concentration. In addition, serum-containing EXD is introduced to rats as a means of in vitro validation. Here, rats were orally administered EXD for three days. Blood samples were then collected, inactivated, centrifuged, and filtered. The serum, diluted with the culture medium, can be utilized to treat cells or tissues in vitro. For example, EXD was applied to both in vivo and in vitro studies and demonstrated that EXD enhances osteogenesis. This protocol can be used as a reference for the preparation and application of herbal medicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shufen Liu
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine
| | - Yueli Sun
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine
| | - Ji Li
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine
| | | | - Qin Bian
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine; The Academy of Integrative Medicine of Fudan University;
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Lin J, Li XL, Song H, Li Q, Wang MY, Qiu XM, Li DJ, Wang L. A general description for Chinese medicine in treating premature ovarian failure. Chin J Integr Med 2017; 23:91-97. [PMID: 28265850 DOI: 10.1007/s11655-016-2642-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Premature ovarian failure (POF) is a kind of gynecological disease that causes amenorrhea, infertility, menopause and urogenital symptoms. Currently hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is the most popular choice for women with POF to get rid of menopausal syndrome. However, as the popularization of Chinese herbs made Chinese medicine (CM) shine new lights, physicians are able to treat POF with both meno-herbs and integrated therapy. HRT has its own indications and contraindications. For example, unexplained vaginal bleeding, acute liver damage, liver dysfunction, vascular embolization, and breast cancer are all contraindications of HRT, and CM is taken by more physicians as an adjuvant therapy. This review, including a range of common Chinese herbs and formulations according to the existing literature, provides a general description of CM treating POF from the aspects of mechanisms and clinical application. It also highlights acupuncture as a unique physiotherapy for POF. Although the validity of CM has been supported by the evidence of many preclinical trials, clinical trials and meta-analysis, the adverse events with CM therapy still exist and no guarantee has been made for its safety. This review concludes the updated information for CM treating POF contributing to further studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Lin
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital and Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences (IBS), Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Xue-Lian Li
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital and Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences (IBS), Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Hui Song
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital and Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences (IBS), Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Qian Li
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital and Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences (IBS), Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Ming-Yan Wang
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital and Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences (IBS), Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Xue-Min Qiu
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital and Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences (IBS), Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai, 200011, China
- The Academy of Integrative Medicine of Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Da-Jin Li
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital and Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences (IBS), Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai, 200011, China
- The Academy of Integrative Medicine of Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Ling Wang
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital and Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences (IBS), Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, 200032, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai, 200011, China.
- The Academy of Integrative Medicine of Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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Cheung HP, Wang SW, Ng TB, Zhang YB, Lao LX, Zhang ZJ, Tong Y, Chung FWS, Sze SCW. Comparison of chemical profiles and effectiveness between Erxian decoction and mixtures of decoctions of its individual herbs: a novel approach for identification of the standard chemicals. Chin Med 2017; 12:1. [PMID: 28053654 PMCID: PMC5209811 DOI: 10.1186/s13020-016-0123-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2015] [Accepted: 12/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Identification of bioactive standard chemicals is a major challenge in the study of the Chinese medicinal formula. In particular, the chemical components may interact differently depending on the preparative methods, therefore affecting the amounts of bioactive components and their pharmacological properties in the medicinal formula. With the use of Erxian decoction (EXD) as a study model—a well-known Chinese medicinal formula for treating menopausal symptoms, a novel and rapid approach in seeking standard chemicals has been established by differentially comparing the HPLC profiles and the menopause-related biochemical parameters of combined decoction of EXD (EXD-C) and mixtures of the decoctions of its individual herbs (EXD-S). Methods The levels of six chemicals, which exerted actions on the HPO axis, have been measured in EXD-C and EXD-S by HPLC. Twelve-month-old female Sprague-Dawley rats were employed and treated with EXD-C and EXD-S. Their endocrine functions after treatment were evaluated by determining the ovarian mRNA levels of aromatase, a key enzyme for estradiol biosynthesis. The effect of the antioxidant regimen was determined by the hepatic superoxide dismutase-1 (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx-1) mRNA levels. Results The amounts of mangiferine, ferulic acid, jatrorrhizine and palmatine in EXD-S were twofold higher than those in EXD-C. EXD-S was more effective in stimulating ovarian aromatase and the expression of the antioxidant enzymes compared with EXD-C. Conclusion Mangiferine, ferulic acid, jatrorrhizine and palmatine are suitable for use as standard chemicals for quality evaluation of EXD according to our approach. EXD-S could be more effective than EXD-C.
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Affiliation(s)
- H P Cheung
- School of Chinese Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 10 Sassoon Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, SAR China
| | - S W Wang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 10 Sassoon Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, SAR China
| | - T B Ng
- School of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong, SAR China
| | - Y B Zhang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 10 Sassoon Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, SAR China
| | - L X Lao
- School of Chinese Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 10 Sassoon Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, SAR China
| | - Z J Zhang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 10 Sassoon Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, SAR China
| | - Y Tong
- School of Chinese Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 10 Sassoon Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, SAR China
| | - F W S Chung
- School of Chinese Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 10 Sassoon Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, SAR China
| | - S C W Sze
- School of Chinese Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 10 Sassoon Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, SAR China
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15
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Wang SW, Cheung HP, Tong Y, Lu J, Ng TB, Zhang YB, Zhang ZJ, Lee KF, Lam JKW, Sze SCW. Steroidogenic effect of Erxian decoction for relieving menopause via the p-Akt/PKB pathway in vitro and in vivo. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2017; 195:188-195. [PMID: 27871904 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2016.11.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2016] [Revised: 10/30/2016] [Accepted: 11/08/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Erxian decoction (EXD), an empirical Chinese medicine formula, is effectively used in the clinical treatment of menopause-related symptoms in China. Previous data from our group show that EXD has steroidogenic effect on natural menopausal Sprague-Dawley-rats (SD-rats) as an animal model of menopause. However, the mechanistic studies on steroidogenic effects of EXD are still inadequate. Hence, the mechanisms of steroidogenic effects of EXD were studied in vitro and in vivo in this study. MATERIALS AND METHODS Menopause causes a decline of endocrine function and a series of symptoms. In this study, 16-20-month-old female SD rats with a low serum estradiol level were employed. Their endocrine functions after treatment with EXD (4.1g/kg) were assessed by determination of their serum estradiol level. Proteins involved in the steroidogenic pathway including StAR, 17βHSD, 3βHSD, aromatase, and activation of phosphorylated Protein Kinase B (p-Akt/PKB), as well as estradiol receptor proteins (ERα & ERβ) after EXD treatment were analyzed. Kinase inhibition assay was conducted to confirm the mechanism of steroidogenic effects of EXD in vitro. MCF-7 and BT-483 cells were used to investigate whether EXD stimulated breast cancer cell proliferation. RESULTS Results revealed a significantly ameliorated serum estradiol level, and a significantly increased expression of ovarian aromatase and PKB in the EXD-treated rats. EXD attenuated 17β-estradiol stimulated proliferation of breast cancer cells. CONCLUSIONS The results obtained from immunoblotting and measurements of serum estradiol level of the present investigation revealed that EXD may relieve the menopausal syndrome through an upregulation of ovarian aromatase and p-PKB expression without stimulating the growth of breast cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shi Wei Wang
- School of Chinese Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 10 Sassoon Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
| | - Ho Pan Cheung
- School of Chinese Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 10 Sassoon Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
| | - Yao Tong
- School of Chinese Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 10 Sassoon Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
| | - Jia Lu
- School of Chinese Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 10 Sassoon Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
| | - Tzi Bun Ng
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
| | - Yan Bo Zhang
- School of Chinese Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 10 Sassoon Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
| | - Zhang-Jin Zhang
- School of Chinese Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 10 Sassoon Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
| | - Kai Fai Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
| | - Jenny Ka Wing Lam
- Department of Pharmacology & Pharmacy, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
| | - Stephen Cho Wing Sze
- School of Chinese Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 10 Sassoon Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
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16
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Wang SW, Wu FH, Zhang YB, Zhang L, Su J, Wong HK, Liu AH, Cheung HP, Ng TB, Tong Y, Sze SCW. Ameliorating effect of Erxian decoction combined with Fructus Schisandrae chinensis (Wu Wei Zi) on menopausal sweating and serum hormone profiles in a rat model. Chin Med 2016; 11:47. [PMID: 27895702 PMCID: PMC5118901 DOI: 10.1186/s13020-016-0117-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2015] [Accepted: 10/27/2016] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Modified Erxian decoction (MEXD), i.e., Erxian decoction (EXD) with Fructus Schisandrae chinensis (Wu Wei Zi) added, has been used to alleviate menopausal symptoms. This study aimed to investigate the effects of MEXD on menopausal sweating and serum hormone levels in a rat model of menopause after oral administration of MEXD. Methods Quality control of MEXD was conducted by employing a reversed-phase high performance liquid chromatography column. The three treatment groups received oral administration of MEXD in 0.5% sodium carboxylmethyl cellulose (CMC-Na) at three different doses (5.5, 11, and 22 g/kg body weight) once-daily for 6 consecutive weeks, with 10 animals per group. Huangqijing oral liquor (5 mL/kg) prepared from the roots of Huang qi (Astragalus membranaceus) with an antiperspirant effect was used as a positive control. The negative control group received the same volume of vehicle (0.5% CMC-Na). Ten 3-month-old Sprague–Dawley rats were used as a young group for comparison with the treatment groups (12–14 months old rats). Blood was collected from all animals after 3–6 weeks of treatment. At the end of the treatment, the uterine weight, ovarian weight, and body weight were recorded. Serum malondialdehyde contents and superoxide dismutase activities were determined by thiobarbituric acid colorimetric assays and chemoluminescence assays, respectively. Serum levels of estradiol, follicle-stimulating hormone, and luteinizing hormone were measured by radioimmunoassays. Rat foot pad assays were used to determine the antiperspirant activity of MEXD and histological examinations were conducted on plantar sweat glands. Results Treatment with MEXD (11 g/kg) significantly inhibited sweat excretion in the menopause model rats after treatment for 3 (P = 0.0026) and 6 (P < 0.0001) weeks. The decoction markedly decreased the number of secretory cells in plantar sweat glands. In addition, MEXD (11 g/kg) significantly increased the serum estradiol levels (P < 0.001) and superoxide dismutase activities (P = 0.0405). Furthermore, MEXD (11 g/kg) markedly decreased the serum levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (P = 0.001), luteinizing hormone (P = 0.0213), and malondialdehyde (P = 0.01). Conclusion Modified Erxian decoction significantly inhibited sweat excretion, regulated serum levels of pituitary gonadotropins and estradiol, and exhibited antioxidative effects in a rat model of menopause. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13020-016-0117-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shi Wei Wang
- School of Chinese Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 10 Sassoon Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Fei Hua Wu
- Department of Pharmacology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yan Bo Zhang
- School of Chinese Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 10 Sassoon Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Liang Zhang
- School of Chinese Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 10 Sassoon Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Jing Su
- School of Chinese Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 10 Sassoon Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Hei Kei Wong
- School of Chinese Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 10 Sassoon Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Ai Hua Liu
- School of Chinese Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 10 Sassoon Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR ; Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ho Pan Cheung
- School of Chinese Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 10 Sassoon Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Tzi Bun Ng
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong SAR
| | - Yao Tong
- School of Chinese Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 10 Sassoon Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Stephen Cho Wing Sze
- School of Chinese Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 10 Sassoon Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR
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Comparative Analysis of Proteins with Stimulating Activity on Ovarian Estradiol Biosynthesis from Four Different Dioscorea Species in vitro Using Both Phenotypic and Target-based Approaches: Implication for Treating Menopause. Appl Biochem Biotechnol 2016; 180:79-93. [PMID: 27131879 DOI: 10.1007/s12010-016-2084-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2016] [Accepted: 04/10/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Rhizomes of Dioscorea species are traditionally used for relieving menopausal syndromes in Chinese medicine. The estrogen-stimulating bioactive principles have been demonstrated in our previous study. In this study, the estrogen-stimulating effects of proteins isolated from four Dioscorea species [D. alata L. (DA), D. zingiberensis C.H. Wright (DH), D. collettii var. hypoglauca (Palib.) S.J. Pei & C.T. Ting (DH), and D. oppositifolia L. (DO)] have been investigated and compared. Microscopic authentication of four Dioscorea species was performed by using paraffin and powder sections of the rhizomes. The potential bioactive proteins of four Dioscorea species have been rapidly isolated by using a DOI-antibody affinity column chromatography on immobilized antibodies against on estradiol-stimulating protein from DO (DOI), and their bioactivity has been rapidly confirmed and compared by phenotypic (i.e., estradiol-stimulating effect) and target-based (i.e., STAR, aromatase, estrogen receptors) screening approaches. The estrogen-stimulating activity of bioactive proteins from DO is the highest. In addition, bioactive proteins from DO upregulated the estradiol-metabolizing enzymes (aromatase and steroidogenic acute regulatory protein). Meanwhile, bioactive proteins from DA, DH and DO upregulated estrogen receptor β (ERβ). All bioactive proteins did not change the expression of estrogen receptor β (ERα). The estrogen-stimulating bioactive proteins isolated from DO increased biosynthesis of estradiol and upregulated the protein expression of aromatase, steroidogenic acute regulatory protein, and ERβ. The results scientifically support the traditional use of DO in Chinese medicine for relieving menopausal syndrome. Besides, proteins from DA and DZ could also upregulate the translational levels of ERβ, and potentially reducing the risk of ovarian cancer, which also support the clinical use of them for treating female aging disorder. Graphical Abstract Comparative Analysis of DOI-like Proteins with Stimulating Activity on Ovarian Estradiol Biosynthesis from Four Different Dioscorea Species in vitro.
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Wang S, Tong Y, Ng TB, Lao L, Lam JKW, Zhang KY, Zhang ZJ, Sze SCW. Network pharmacological identification of active compounds and potential actions of Erxian decoction in alleviating menopause-related symptoms. Chin Med 2015; 10:19. [PMID: 26191080 PMCID: PMC4506602 DOI: 10.1186/s13020-015-0051-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2014] [Accepted: 07/01/2015] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Erxian decoction (EXD) is used to treat menopause-related symptoms in Chinese medicine. This study aims to identify the bioactive compounds and potential actions of EXD by network pharmacological analysis. METHODS Two databases, the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology database and TCM Database@Taiwan, were used to retrieve literature of phytochemicals of EXD. STITCH 4.0 and the Comparative Toxicogenomics Database were used to search for compound-protein and compound-gene interactions, respectively. DAVID Bioinformatics Resources 6.7 and Cytoscape 3.01 with Jepetto plugin software were used to perform a network pharmacological analysis of EXD. RESULTS A total of 721 compounds were identified in EXD, of which 155 exhibited 2,656 compound-protein interactions with 1,963 associated proteins determined by STITCH4.0 database, and of which 210 had 14,893 compound-gene interactions with 8,536 associated genes determined by Comparative Toxicogenomics Database. Sixty three compounds of EXD followed the Lipinski's Rule with OB ≥30% and DL index ≥0.18, of which 20 related to 34 significant pathway- or 12 gene- associated with menopause. CONCLUSIONS Twenty compounds were identified by network pharmacology as potential effective ingredients of EXD for relieving menopause with acceptable oral bioavailability and druggability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiwei Wang
- />School of Chinese Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yao Tong
- />School of Chinese Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Tzi-Bun Ng
- />School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Lixing Lao
- />School of Chinese Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Jenny Ka Wing Lam
- />Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Kalin Yanbo Zhang
- />School of Chinese Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Zhang-Jin Zhang
- />School of Chinese Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Stephen Cho Wing Sze
- />School of Chinese Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Effect of Rat Medicated Serum Containing Zuo Gui Wan and/or You Gui Wan on the Differentiation of Stem Cells Derived from Human First Trimester Umbilical Cord into Oocyte-Like Cells In Vitro. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2015; 2015:825805. [PMID: 25688279 PMCID: PMC4320897 DOI: 10.1155/2015/825805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2014] [Revised: 09/16/2014] [Accepted: 10/27/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Zuo Gui Wan (ZGW) and You Gui Wan (YGW) are two classic formulas used in clinical treatment of infertility in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). However, the actions of the formulas remain to be proven at the cellular and molecular levels. In this study, we investigate whether the two formulas have any effect on germ cell formation and differentiation by culturing rat medicated serums containing YGW or ZGW with stem cells derived from human first trimester umbilical cord. Our results showed that while the normal rat serums had no significant effects, the rat medicated serums had significant effects on the differentiation of the stem cells into oocyte-like cells (OLCs) based on (1) cell morphological changes that resembled purative cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs); (2) expressions of specific markers that were indicative of germ cell formation and oocyte development; and (3) estradiol production by the COC-like cells. Furthermore, ZGW medicated serums exhibited more obvious effects on specific gene expressions of germ cells, whereas YGW medicated serums showed stronger effects on estradiol production. Accordingly, our study provides evidence demonstrating for the first time that one of molecular and cellular actions of YGW or ZGW in treating human reproductive dysfunctions may be through an enhancement of neooogenesis.
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Wong KC, Lee KS, Luk HK, Wan HY, Ho CK, Zhang Y, Wong MS. Er-xian Decoction exerts estrogen-like osteoprotective effects in vivo and in vitro. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF CHINESE MEDICINE 2014; 42:409-26. [PMID: 24707871 DOI: 10.1142/s0192415x1450027x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Er-xian Decoction (EXD), containing Herba epimedii Maxim (HEP) and Curculigo orchioides Gaertn (XM) as principal drugs, is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula prescribed for the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis. In the present study, the in vivo anti-osteoporosis effects of EXD, HEP and XM on four-month-old ovariectomized (OVX) Sprague-Dawley rats were investigated. Micro-computed tomography analysis showed that EXD could significantly improve the micro-architectural parameters (BMD, BV/TV, Tb.N, Tb.Th, and Tb.Sp) of trabecular bone in the distal femur and proximal tibia in OVX rats (p < 0.05). The biomechanical parameters of the distal femur in rats treated with EXD were also improved significantly (p < 0.05 vs. OVX group). The in vivo efficacy of EXD was found to be superior to HEP or XM alone in improving the bone properties of OVX rats. Treatment of rat osteoblastic-like UMR-106 cells with EXD, HEP, and XM significantly promoted the cell proliferation rate (p < 0.05) with the most promising effects observed in cells treated with EXD (p < 0.001). The proliferative effect in UMR-106 cells induced by EXD, HEP, and XM were abolished in the presence of the estrogen antagonist, ICI182780, suggesting that their effects were mediated by estrogen receptor (ER). Additionally, EXD could activate ER-α and ER-β mediated estrogen-response element (ERE)-dependent luciferase activity as well as phosphorylate ER-α at serine 118 in UMR-106 cells. Taken together, EXD offered better osteoprotective effects than its single principal herb, and the beneficial effects of EXD in preventing bone deteriorations are, at least partially, through the ER signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ka-Chun Wong
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong, P. R. China
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Effect of rat medicated serum containing you gui wan on mouse oocyte in vitro maturation and subsequent fertilization competence. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2014; 2014:152010. [PMID: 25530775 PMCID: PMC4228818 DOI: 10.1155/2014/152010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2014] [Accepted: 07/30/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
You Gui Wan (YGW) is a classic herbal formula in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) used for the clinical treatment of infertility. This study was to explore whether YGW has an impact on mouse oocyte maturation in vitro and subsequent fertilization competence. Rat medicated serum containing YGW was prepared by orally administrating YGW. Mouse immature oocytes were cultured with YGW medicated serum and compared to those cultured with or without normal rat serum or follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). YGW medicated serum significantly increased the percentages of matured oocytes when compared to the groups with or without normal rat serum (P < 0.01). Furthermore, YGW medicated serum increased the rate of in vitro fertilization (IVF) when compared to the groups treated with FSH and with or without normal rat serum (P < 0.001). YGW medicated serum also had significant effects on the mRNA expressions of PKA, CREB, MAPK, PKC, PKG, and MPF and the concentrations of cAMP, cGMP, and NO in matured oocytes. These results indicate that YGW can promote mouse oocyte maturation and IVF in vitro. Signaling pathways, such as the cAMP/PKA/MAPK, the PKC-MAPK, and the NO-cGMP-PKG pathway, which are similar to those induced by FSH, may be responsible for this action.
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Abstract
CONTEXT Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) has been widely used in clinical practice to treat bone disease for thousands of years. They are cost-effective with fewer side effects and are more suitable for long-term use compared with chemically synthesized medicines. OBJECTIVE Chinese herbal formula prescribed among the CHMs is safe, and it is an alternative medicine for bone-related diseases such as osteoporosis. METHODS Science Direct and Google Scholar were used to search articles published. The input key words were CHM, osteoporosis, Chinese herbal formula, traditional Chinese medicine, single herb, multiple-herbs, and bone health. CHMs (single herb and formula) lacking sufficient proof and evidence in the literature were excluded and only those with high citation were retained. RESULTS A brief review was summarized to indicate the application and the potential mechanism of single herb formula and multi-herb formula in treating the common bone-related diseases such as inflammation, fracture, osteopenia, and osteoporosis. CONCLUSION In order to ensure safety and efficacy of all these CHMs, the prescriptions with single herb and multi-component formula must be verified and ensured by reliable pharmacological and toxicological methods. Much more effort needs to be done for studying the standardization, safety evaluation, and mechanism exploration of herb formula as well as confirming the compatibility of these herbs which make one.
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A randomized, double-blind, controlled trial of a Chinese herbal formula (Er-Xian decoction) for menopausal symptoms in Hong Kong perimenopausal women. Menopause 2014; 20:767-76. [PMID: 23793167 DOI: 10.1097/gme.0b013e31827cd3dd] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to investigate the effectiveness and safety of a Chinese herbal formula, Er-Xian decoction (EXD), in the treatment of menopausal symptoms among Hong Kong perimenopausal women. METHODS A randomized, double-blind, controlled trial was conducted for 12 weeks among 108 Hong Kong perimenopausal women who reported Menopause Rating Scale (MRS) total scores of 28 or higher. Posttreatment follow-up was performed 3 months after the intervention. The primary outcome measure was the frequency and severity of hot flushes. The secondary outcome measures included the MRS, the Menopause-Specific Quality of Life questionnaire, and serum hormone levels. RESULTS Among 108 participants, 101 participants finished the study. EXD significantly reduced the mean (SD) frequency of hot flushes from 5.8 (5.0) to 2.2 (3.0) in the treatment group and from 5.0 (3.8) to 2.4 (2.5) in the placebo group (P = 0.04). The mean (SD) hot flush score was also reduced from 19.6 (6.6) to 4.9 (7.8) in the treatment group and from 16.6 (5.4) to 7.0 (6.4) in the placebo group (P = 0.02). The superiority of EXD to placebo was also observed with greater improvement in the total scores for the MRS (P = 0.03) and the Menopause-Specific Quality of Life questionnaire (P < 0.01). There were no differences in serum hormone levels between the EXD group and the placebo group. There were no serious adverse events, and the safety indices of whole blood counts, renal function, and liver function were within the normal range before and after treatment. CONCLUSIONS The Chinese herbal formula EXD is superior to placebo in reducing the frequency and severity of hot flushes and in improving menopausal symptoms in Hong Kong perimenopausal women. It is well tolerated, with no serious adverse events noted during the study period.
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YIN QIAOZHI, LU HUA, LI LIMIN, YIE SHANGMIAN, HU XIANG, LIU ZHIBIN, ZHENG XIAO, CAO SHENG, YAO ZOUYING. Impacts of You Gui Wan on the expression of estrogen receptors and angiogenic factors in OVX-rat vagina: A possible mechanism for the trophic effect of the formula on OVX-induced vaginal atrophy. Mol Med Rep 2013; 8:1329-36. [DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2013.1670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2013] [Accepted: 08/08/2013] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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Chu ESM, Sze SCW, Cheung HP, Liu Q, Ng TB, Tong Y. An in vitro and in vivo investigation of the antimetastatic effects of a Chinese medicinal decoction, erxian decoction, on human ovarian cancer models. Integr Cancer Ther 2012; 12:336-46. [PMID: 23241639 DOI: 10.1177/1534735412464519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Erxian Decoction (EXD) is a well-documented Chinese medicinal formulation, which has been clinically applied for years for relieving menopausal syndromes by modulating hormonal levels indicating that EXD might also be effective in treating hormone-related tumors. This study aimed to differentially investigate the efficacy of EXD and its antimetastatic property on human ovarian cancer cells, OVCA429. METHODS The efficacy and cell cycle progression of EXD on OVCA429 cells was determined by MTT assay and flow cytometry, respectively. The modulated expression of metastatic markers by EXD in OVCA429 cells and xenografts was evaluated at transcriptional and translational levels by Western blotting and real-time polymerase chain reaction, respectively. The migrating and invasive ability of the cancer cells were determined by wound healing and invasive assays. RESULTS The IC50 value of EXD on OVCA429 cells was determined after 24 hours incubation with EXD at 1 mg/mL. EXD (1.5 mg/mL) mediated S-phase cell cycle arrest and apoptotic cell death at 24 hours posttreatment. EXD repressed the expression of several metastatic mediators, including EGFR, ErbB2, MMP2, MMP7, MMP9, and VEGF in OVCA429 cells and xenografts at transcriptional and/or translational levels. Furthermore, EXD functionally demonstrated significant inhibition of migrating and invasive ability of OVCA429 cells. EXD suppressed tumor size in xenografts without any adverse effects on body weight. CONCLUSIONS This is the first study that illustrates the antimetastatic property of EXD on human ovarian cancer models. This decoction merits serious consideration for further delineation of its multiple pharmacological effects, especially on hormone-related cancers, and these would be valuable for future clinical applications of EXD as an alternative regime for cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellie S M Chu
- The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, Estate Building, 10 Sassoon Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
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Ross JL, Howlett SE. Age and ovariectomy abolish beneficial effects of female sex on rat ventricular myocytes exposed to simulated ischemia and reperfusion. PLoS One 2012; 7:e38425. [PMID: 22701638 PMCID: PMC3368849 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0038425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2012] [Accepted: 05/09/2012] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Sex differences in responses to myocardial ischemia have been described, but whether cardiomyocyte function is influenced by sex in the setting of ischemia and reperfusion has not been elucidated. This study compared contractions and intracellular Ca2+ in isolated ventricular myocytes exposed to ischemia and reperfusion. Cells were isolated from anesthetized 3-month-old male and female Fischer 344 rats, paced at 4 Hz (37°C), exposed to simulated ischemia (20 mins) and reperfused. Cell shortening (edge detector) and intracellular Ca2+ (fura-2) were measured simultaneously. Cell viability was assessed with Trypan blue. Ischemia reduced peak contractions and increased Ca2+ levels equally in myocytes from both sexes. However, contraction amplitudes were reduced in reperfusion in male myocytes, while contractions recovered to exceed control levels in females (62.6±5.1 vs. 140.1±15.8%; p<0.05). Only 60% of male myocytes excluded trypan blue dye after ischemia and reperfusion, while all female cardiomyocytes excluded the dye (p<0.05). Parallel experiments were conducted in myocytes from ∼24-month-old female rats or 5–6-month-old rats that had an ovariectomy at 3–4 weeks of age. Beneficial effects of female sex on myocyte viability and contractile dysfunction in reperfusion were abolished in cells from 24-month-old females. Aged female myocytes also exhibited elevated intracellular Ca2+ and alternans in ischemia. Cells from ovariectomized rats displayed increased Ca2+ transients and spontaneous activity in ischemia compared to sham-operated controls. None of the myocytes from ovariectomized rats were viable after 15 minutes of ischemia, while 75% of sham cells remained viable at end of reperfusion (p<0.05). These findings demonstrate that cardiomyocytes from young adult females are more resistant to ischemia and reperfusion injury than cells from males. Age and OVX abolish these beneficial effects and induce Ca2+ dysregulation at the level of the cardiomyocyte. Thus, beneficial effects of estrogen in ischemia and reperfusion are mediated, in part, by effects on cardiomyocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenna L. Ross
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Susan E. Howlett
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
- Division of Geriatric Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
- * E-mail:
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Compatibility of multiple herbal components in Erxian Decoction, a Chinese medicinal formula, for treating osteoporosis. Eur J Integr Med 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eujim.2012.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Hu X, Wang J, Yin QZ, Lu H, Yie SM. You Gui Wan can reverse atrophic effect of ovariectomy on rat vaginal fold and blood vessels in the lamina propria. Biol Pharm Bull 2012; 34:1808-14. [PMID: 22130235 DOI: 10.1248/bpb.34.1808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study is to investigate whether or not You Gui Wan (YGW), a classical herbal formula in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), has an impact on rat uterine and vaginal atrophic processes induced by ovariectomy (OVX). Thirty-four OVX Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into three sets, and orally administrated with YGW decoction, saline or estrogen for 11 weeks, respectively. Histomorphological changes of the uterus and vagina, and serum estradiol levels were then compared. Results showed that OVX caused a dramatic atrophy of the uterus and vagina in the rats. Estrogen replacement reversed the effect of OVX, but with a side effect of endometrial hyperplasia. YGW had no significant effect on blood estradiol concentration or uterine histology, but it significantly overturned the atrophic processes of the vaginal fold and blood vessels in the lamina propria. In order to initially explore the mechanisms underlying these effects, immunostaining of estrogen receptor (ER)-α and -β in the vagina was performed. It was shown that OVX reduced expressions of ER while YGW and estrogen replacement reversed this reduction. Our findings suggest that YGW can reverse the atrophic effect of OVX on rat vaginal plica and blood vessels in the lamina propria with little adverse effect on endometrial hyperplasia. This indicates the herbal formula as an alternative to hormone replacement therapy in the management of menopausal vaginal atrophy. Recovery of ER expressions in the vagina might be one of mechanisms underlying the effects of YGW.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Hu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Medical College/Teaching Hospital, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P. R. China
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Sze SC, Cheung HP, Ng TB, Zhang ZJ, Wong KL, Wong HK, Hu YM, Yow CM, Tong Y. Effects of Erxian decoction, a Chinese medicinal formulation, on serum lipid profile in a rat model of menopause. Chin Med 2011; 6:40. [PMID: 22047073 PMCID: PMC3231803 DOI: 10.1186/1749-8546-6-40] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2010] [Accepted: 11/02/2011] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The prevalence and risk of cardiovascular disease increase after menopause in correlation with the progression of abnormality in the serum lipid profile and the deprivation of estrogen. Erxian decoction (EXD), a Chinese medicinal formulation for treating menopausal syndrome, stimulates ovarian estrogen biosynthesis. This study investigates whether EXD improves the serum lipid profile in a menopausal rat model. METHODS Twenty-month-old female Sprague Dawley rats were treated with EXD and its constituent fractions. Premarin was administered for comparison. After eight weeks of treatment, rats were sacrificed and the serum levels of total cholesterol, triglyceride, high-density-lipoprotein cholesterol and low-density-lipoprotein cholesterol were determined. The hepatic protein levels of 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl-CoA reductase and low-density-lipoprotein receptor were assessed with Western blot. RESULTS The serum levels of total cholesterol and low-density-lipoprotein cholesterol were significantly lower in the EXD-treated group than in the constituent fractions of EXD or premarin groups. However, the serum levels of triglyceride and high-density-lipoprotein cholesterol were not significantly different from the control groups. Results from Western blot suggest that EXD significantly down-regulated the protein level of 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl-CoA reductase and up-regulated low-density-lipoprotein receptor. Conclusion EXD improves serum lipid profile in a menopausal rat model through the suppression of the serum levels of total cholesterol and low-density-lipoprotein cholesterol, possibly through the down-regulation of the 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl-CoA and up-regulation of the low-density-lipoprotein receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Cw Sze
- School of Chinese Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China.
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Hu YM, Wang YT, Sze SCW, Tsang KW, Wong HK, Liu Q, Zhong LD, Tong Y. Identification of the major chemical constituents and their metabolites in rat plasma and various organs after oral administration of effective Erxian Decoction (EXD) fraction by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Biomed Chromatogr 2010; 24:479-89. [PMID: 19688819 DOI: 10.1002/bmc.1315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
A simple and specific LC-DAD-ESI-MS/MS method has been developed and applied for the primary investigation of the chemical constituents absorbed or metabolized in vivo, after the rat oral administration of Erxian Decoction (EXD), a Chinese medicine prescription for menopausal syndromes. Through the online ESI-MS(n) analysis, a total of 35 compounds have been identified or tentatively characterized from the seven tested samples, and 13 of them were unambiguously identified through a direct comparison of the retention time, UV spectra and MS(n) fragmentation patterns with the authentic ones. The results showed that 21 compounds were detected from rat plasma, 20 compounds were detected from rat kidneys and adrenal glands, 19 compounds were detected from rat ovaries, 12 compounds were found in rat intestines, nine compounds were identified from rat livers and nine compounds were detected from rat brains at certain time points after oral administration of the effective EXD fraction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Mei Hu
- The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, China
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