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Zhang WQ, Sun JX, Lan ST, Sun XM, Guo YJ, Wen BC, Chen J, Liu G. Regulation of Fuzheng Huayu capsule on inhibiting the fibrosis-associated hepatocellular carcinogenesis. JOURNAL OF ASIAN NATURAL PRODUCTS RESEARCH 2024; 26:1219-1238. [PMID: 38780602 DOI: 10.1080/10286020.2024.2355132] [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: 08/20/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
In the current study, bioinformatics analysis of the hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) dataset was conducted with the hepatoprotective effect of the Fuzheng Huayu (FZHY) capsule against the diethylnitrosamine-induced HCC progression analyzed. Eight cell clusters were defined and tanshinone IIA, arachidonic acid, and quercetin, compounds of the FZHY capsule, inhibit HCC progression-related fibrosis by regulating the expression of PLAU and IGFBP3. Combined with the ameliorative effect of the FZHY capsule against liver dysfunctions and expression of PLAU and IGFBP3, our study confirmed the effect of the FZHY capsule on inhibiting the fibrosis-associated HCC progression via regulating the expression of PLAU and IGFBP3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Qi Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Department of Achievement Transformation, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot 010050, China
| | - Jia-Xin Sun
- Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Department of Achievement Transformation, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot 010050, China
| | - Shu-Ting Lan
- Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Department of Achievement Transformation, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot 010050, China
| | - Xiao-Mei Sun
- Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Department of Achievement Transformation, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot 010050, China
| | - Yi-Jing Guo
- Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Department of Achievement Transformation, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot 010050, China
| | - Bi-Chao Wen
- Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Department of Achievement Transformation, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot 010050, China
| | - Jie Chen
- Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Department of Achievement Transformation, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot 010050, China
| | - Gang Liu
- Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Department of Achievement Transformation, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot 010050, China
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2
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Mady B, Ibrahim HF, ElAziz Mm A, Basta M, Assem S, Ahmed Ali M, El Mottelib LMMAA. The potential ameliorating effect of vitamin E on bleomycin - induced lung fibrosis in adult albino rats. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 136:112375. [PMID: 38823182 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112375] [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: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 05/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024]
Abstract
Lung fibrosis is a critical interstitial lung disease with poor prognosis. There is an urgent need to develop a proper and cost-effective therapeutic modality that can reverse and/or ameliorate lung fibrosis. Vitamin E is one of the widely investigated dietary antioxidants which has been linked to improvement of many health problems. The current study was conducted to evaluate the possible roles of vitamin E in prevention and treatment of bleomycin (BLM) induced lung fibrosis. Physiological, anatomical, histopathological and immunohistochemical studies were done to assess and compare between the structure and function of the lung tissue in lung fibrosis model, early and late treated groups with vitamin E. Furthermore, measurement of transforming growth factor-β(TGF-β), E-cadherin, Smad-3, BAX, BCL2, malondialdehyde (MDA), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were done. The study revealed that administration of vitamin E helped to improve signs of lung fibrosis, as reflected by amelioration of structure and functions of lungs as well as the decrease in TGF-β levels and inhibition of α-SMA/collagen I profibrotic pathway. These findings highlight the importance of administration of vitamin E as a prophylactic agent prior to BLM therapy and as an adjuvant treatment in cases of lung fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Basma Mady
- Department of Human Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Dr Fahmi Abdelmeguid St., Mowassah Campus, Alexandria 21561, Egypt.
| | - Heba F Ibrahim
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Al Kharj 11942, Saudi Arabia; Department of Medical Histology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Dr Fahmi Abdelmeguid St., Mowassah Campus, Alexandria 21561, Egypt
| | - Abd ElAziz Mm
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Dr Fahmi Abdelmeguid St., Mowassah Campus, Alexandria 21561, Egypt
| | - Marianne Basta
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Dr Fahmi Abdelmeguid St., Mowassah Campus, Alexandria 21561, Egypt
| | - Sara Assem
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Dr Fahmi Abdelmeguid St., Mowassah Campus, Alexandria 21561, Egypt
| | - Manal Ahmed Ali
- Veterinarian, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Dr Fahmi Abdelmeguid St., Mowassah Campus, Alexandria 21561, Egypt
| | - Lobna M M A Abd El Mottelib
- Department of Human Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Dr Fahmi Abdelmeguid St., Mowassah Campus, Alexandria 21561, Egypt; Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Dental Medicine, American University for Medical Sciences (AUMS), Eqaila, Block 6, Street 103, Building 2, Kuwait
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3
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Wang M, Yan M, Tan L, Zhao X, Liu G, Zhang Z, Zhang J, Gao H, Qin W. Non-coding RNAs: targets for Chinese herbal medicine in treating myocardial fibrosis. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1337623. [PMID: 38476331 PMCID: PMC10928947 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1337623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases have become the leading cause of death in urban and rural areas. Myocardial fibrosis is a common pathological manifestation at the adaptive and repair stage of cardiovascular diseases, easily predisposing to cardiac death. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), RNA molecules with no coding potential, can regulate gene expression in the occurrence and development of myocardial fibrosis. Recent studies have suggested that Chinese herbal medicine can relieve myocardial fibrosis through targeting various ncRNAs, mainly including microRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs). Thus, ncRNAs are novel drug targets for Chinese herbal medicine. Herein, we summarized the current understanding of ncRNAs in the pathogenesis of myocardial fibrosis, and highlighted the contribution of ncRNAs to the therapeutic effect of Chinese herbal medicine on myocardial fibrosis. Further, we discussed the future directions regarding the potential applications of ncRNA-based drug screening platform to screen drugs for myocardial fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minghui Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
- School of Pharmacy, Jining Medical University, Rizhao, Shandong, China
| | - Maocai Yan
- School of Pharmacy, Jining Medical University, Rizhao, Shandong, China
| | - Liqiang Tan
- Department of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaona Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Jining Medical University, Rizhao, Shandong, China
- School of Pharmacy, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, China
| | - Guoqing Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
- School of Pharmacy, Jining Medical University, Rizhao, Shandong, China
| | - Zejin Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Jining Medical University, Rizhao, Shandong, China
- School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, Shandong, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Jining Medical University, Rizhao, Shandong, China
| | - Honggang Gao
- School of Pharmacy, Jining Medical University, Rizhao, Shandong, China
| | - Wei Qin
- School of Pharmacy, Jining Medical University, Rizhao, Shandong, China
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Wang F, Wang S, Wang J, Huang K, Chen G, Peng Y, Liu C, Tao Y. Pharmacological mechanisms of Fuzheng Huayu formula for Aristolochic acid I-induced kidney fibrosis through network pharmacology. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1056865. [PMID: 36569327 PMCID: PMC9779930 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1056865] [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: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Renal fibrosis, characterized by the destruction of renal tubules and interstitial capillaries and the accumulation of extracellular matrix proteins, is a common outcome of chronic renal diseases and has a wide spectrum of etiologies. Fibrosis can affect any organ and has similar pathological mechanisms. Fuzheng Huayu formula (FZHY), as the approved anti-liver fibrosis medicine in China, also can inhibit the kidney fibrosis induced by HgCl2 or unilateral ureteral obstruction. However, little is known about the mechanisms underlying the beneficial effects of FZHY on renal fibrosis. This study aimed to identify the mechanisms of FZHY acts on renal fibrosis through network pharmacological analysis and in vivo experiments. Data from online databases were mined and screened to predict the target related genes of FZHY acts on renal fibrosis. The STRING and Cytoscape were used to construct the protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks for FZHY and CKD target proteins. Mouse models with CKD induced by Aristolochic Acid I (AAI) were used to validate the effects of FZHY on renal fibrosis and their underlying mechanisms by detecting kidney function, renal fibrosis, and related intersection genes. A total of 129 FZHY-CKD crossover proteins were filtered and constructed into a protein-protein interaction network complex and designated as the potential targets of FZHY. One of the highest-scoring genes, FOS, and its related signaling pathways were more activated in CKD. The results demonstrated that FZHY can exert an anti-renal fibrosis effect by improving the levels of serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen and alleviating excessive collagen deposition in kidney tissue, FZHY also could reduce the levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 and inhibit the expression of MAPK/FOS signal molecules. Our study findings provide insights into predicting the effects of FZHY on CKD through network pharmacology. FZHY can protect the kidney from inflammatory injury caused by AAI and can antagonize inflammatory factor-stimulated MAPK/FOS activation in fibrotic kidneys. These effects constitute the mechanisms of FZHY for renal fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Wang
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Siyuan Wang
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Kai Huang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Gaofeng Chen
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuan Peng
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Chenghai Liu
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shanghai, China,Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases, Ministry of Education, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China,*Correspondence: Chenghai Liu, ; Yanyan Tao,
| | - Yanyan Tao
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shanghai, China,Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases, Ministry of Education, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China,*Correspondence: Chenghai Liu, ; Yanyan Tao,
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Tabebordbar M, Moradi Sarabi M, Vakili S, Zare R, Zal F. Effect of folic acid and vitamin E on promoter DNA methylation and expression of TGF-β1, ESR-1 and CDH-1 in the uterus of STZ-induced diabetic rats. Arch Physiol Biochem 2022; 128:1339-1345. [PMID: 32469605 DOI: 10.1080/13813455.2020.1770798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The present study is the first attempt made to investigate the effects of diabetes on expression and promoter DNA methylation of TGF-β1, ESR-1, and CDH-1 genes and also the effects of folic acid (FA) and vitamin E (Vit E) supplementations on improving diabetes mellitus. STZ-induced diabetic rats were treated with Vit E (200 mg/kg/day) and FA (25 mg/kg/day) for 8 weeks and expression and DNA methylation of TGF-β1, ESR-1, and CDH-1 genes in uterus were analysed. Data indicated that diabetes increases the expression of TGFβ-1 and ESR-1 and decreases CDH-1 expression and TGFβ-1 promoter methylation in the uterus of rats. Vit E and FA improved the negative effects of diabetes by decreasing the expression of TGFβ-1 and ESR-1 and increasing that of CDH-1 in diabetic rats. In conclusion, these findings emphasise that Vit E and FA supplementations could improve negative effects caused by diabetes on uterus function and fertility in diabetic rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Tabebordbar
- Biochemistry Department, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mostafa Moradi Sarabi
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetic, School of Medicine, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Sina Vakili
- Biochemistry Department, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Razieh Zare
- Biochemistry Department, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Zal
- Biochemistry Department, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Infertility Research Center, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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6
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Wang Y, Feng Y, Li M, Yang M, Shi G, Xuan Z, Yin D, Xu F. Traditional Chinese Medicine in the Treatment of Chronic Kidney Diseases: Theories, Applications, and Mechanisms. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:917975. [PMID: 35924053 PMCID: PMC9340222 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.917975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a common and progressive disease that has become a major public health problem on a global scale. Renal fibrosis is a common feature in the pathogenesis of CKD, which is mainly related to the excessive accumulation and deposition of extracellular matrix caused by various inflammatory factors. No ideal treatment has yet been established. In recent years, based on the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) theory of CKD and its molecular mechanism, clinical evidence or experimental studies have confirmed that a variety of Chinese materia medica (CMM) and their effective components can delay the progress of CKD. TCM believes that the pathogenesis of CKD is the deficiency in the root and excess in the branch, and the deficiency and excess are always accompanied by the disease. The strategies of TCM in treating CKD are mainly based on invigorating Qi, tonifying the kidneys, promoting blood circulation, removing stasis, eliminating heat and dampness, removing turbidity, and eliminating edema, and these effects are multitargeted and multifunctional. This review attempts to summarize the theories and treatment strategies of TCM in the treatment of CKD and presents the efficacy and mechanisms of several CMMs supported by clinical evidence or experimental studies. In addition, the relationship between the macroscopic of TCM and the microscopic of modern medicine and the problems faced in further research were also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunlai Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei, China
- Institute for Pharmacodynamics and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Medicine, Anhui Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Ye Feng
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Manman Li
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Mo Yang
- Scientific Research and Technology Center, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Gaoxiang Shi
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Zihua Xuan
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Dengke Yin
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
- *Correspondence: Dengke Yin, ; Fan Xu,
| | - Fan Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei, China
- *Correspondence: Dengke Yin, ; Fan Xu,
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7
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Exploring mechanisms of Chaihu-Shugan-San against liver fibrosis by integrated multi-omics and network pharmacology approach. Biosci Rep 2022; 42:231546. [PMID: 35791909 PMCID: PMC9301292 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20221030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2022] [Revised: 06/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Chaihu-Shugan-San (CHSGS), a noted traditional Chinese medicine formula, has been used as a complementary and alternative therapy for liver fibrosis. However, the antifibrotic mechanisms of CHSGS still remain unclear. Thus, we used network pharmacology approach in combination with single cell and bulk transcriptomics to elucidate the antifibrotic mechanisms of CHSGS. We first screened out 134 bioactive ingredients of CHSGS through the defined criteria. Then, 1,150 genes were predicted to be targets for CHSGS, while 625 liver fibrosis-associated genes were identified by single cell transcriptomics analysis. Next, 71 intersecting genes of CHSGS and liver fibrosis were defined as the therapeutic targets in CHSGS against liver fibrosis. Further, 21 core targets and 12 core ingredients of CHSGS against liver fibrosis were also identified. Meanwhile, enrichment analyses of core targets highlighted that the key mechanisms of CHSGS against liver fibrosis include modulation of inflammation responses, inhibition of angiogenesis, and regulation of ECM remodeling, of which the most important mechanism was the regulation of ECM remodeling. The molecular docking simulation validated strong binding affinity between the core targets and core ingredients. Furthermore, 62-gene signature may be used for determining the prognosis in cirrhotic patients based on the results of ssGSEA-Cox analysis. In conclusion, this study revealed the multiple pharmacological targets and therapeutic mechanisms of CHSGS against liver fibrosis, which may thus serve as an effective antifibrotic therapy. Meanwhile, CHSGS may improve survival of patients with liver cirrhosis by the interaction of 62-gene signature.
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Zhang Y, Mou Y, Zhang J, Suo C, Zhou H, Gu M, Wang Z, Tan R. Therapeutic Implications of Ferroptosis in Renal Fibrosis. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:890766. [PMID: 35655759 PMCID: PMC9152458 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.890766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Renal fibrosis is a common feature of chronic kidney disease (CKD), and can lead to the destruction of normal renal structure and loss of kidney function. Little progress has been made in reversing fibrosis in recent years. Ferroptosis is more immunogenic than apoptosis due to the release and activation of damage-related molecular patterns (DAMPs) signals. In this paper, the relationship between renal fibrosis and ferroptosis was reviewed from the perspective of iron metabolism and lipid peroxidation, and some pharmaceuticals or chemicals associated with both ferroptosis and renal fibrosis were summarized. Other programmed cell death and ferroptosis in renal fibrosis were also firstly reviewed for comparison and further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Zhang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yanhua Mou
- Department of Oncology, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang, China
| | - Jianjian Zhang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chuanjian Suo
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hai Zhou
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Min Gu
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zengjun Wang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ruoyun Tan
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- *Correspondence: Ruoyun Tan,
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Formulation of wheat germ oil based on nanoemulsions to mitigate cisplatin's nephrotoxic effects. Prostaglandins Other Lipid Mediat 2021; 158:106603. [PMID: 34852296 DOI: 10.1016/j.prostaglandins.2021.106603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The present study was designed to fabricate wheat germ oil nanoemulsions (WGO-NEs) by using two different emulsifiers in their physical properties and their chemical structures which were Triton X-100 and Lecithin to form Triton X-100 coated WGO nanoemulsion (WGOT-NE) and Lecithin coated WGO nanoemulsion (WGOL-NE) then characterized them using Transmission Electron Microscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Dynamic light scattering (DLS) and study their biological effects against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity. The experimental study was performed on fifty male albino rats divided into 5 groups. healthy group, group injected with a single dose of cisplatin (CP), group injected with a single dose of CP then received WGO orally, group injected with a single dose of CP then received WGOL-NE and group injected a single dose of CP then received WGOT-NE. The results showed that the shape of the particles of WGOL-NE is spherical with poorly aggregation and average particle size is 161.2 nm while WGOT-NE is nearly spherical but with noticeable agglomeration and an average particle size of 194.6 nm. In the experimental study, the results showed involvement of cisplatin in nephrotoxicity through disturbance kidney function and histological examination of the cortical tissue of the kidney and increased biochemical markers related to inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptotic pathway. Otherwise, treatment with WGO, WGOT-NE, and WGOL-NE increased a significant amelioration in all the biochemical markers. In conclusion, WGOT-NE and WGOL-NE were more efficient than the native WGO in attenuating the kidney damage induced by CP although WGOL-NE showed the nearest results to the control group.
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Yan H, Xu J, Xu Z, Yang B, Luo P, He Q. Defining therapeutic targets for renal fibrosis: Exploiting the biology of pathogenesis. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 143:112115. [PMID: 34488081 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.112115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Renal fibrosis is a failed wound-healing process of the kidney tissue after chronic, sustained injury, which is a common pathway and pathological marker of virtually every type of chronic kidney disease (CKD), regardless of cause. However, there is a lack of effective treatment specifically targeting against renal fibrosis per se to date. The main pathological feature of renal fibrosis is the massive activation and proliferation of renal fibroblasts and the excessive synthesis and secretion of extracellular matrix (ECM) deposited in the renal interstitium, leading to structural damage, impairment of renal function, and eventually end-stage renal disease. In this review, we summarize recent advancements regarding the participation and interaction of many types of kidney residents and infiltrated cells during renal fibrosis, attempt to comprehensively discuss the mechanism of renal fibrosis from the cellular level and conclude by highlighting novel therapeutic targets and approaches for development of new treatments for patients with renal fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Yan
- Center for Drug Safety Evaluation and Research of Zhejiang University, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Jiangxin Xu
- Center for Drug Safety Evaluation and Research of Zhejiang University, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Zhifei Xu
- Center for Drug Safety Evaluation and Research of Zhejiang University, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Bo Yang
- Institute of Pharmacology & Toxicology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Peihua Luo
- Center for Drug Safety Evaluation and Research of Zhejiang University, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
| | - Qiaojun He
- Center for Drug Safety Evaluation and Research of Zhejiang University, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
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11
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Wang Q, Tao Y, Xie H, Liu C, Liu P. MicroRNA‑101 inhibits renal tubular epithelial‑to‑mesenchymal transition by targeting TGF‑β1 type I receptor. Int J Mol Med 2021; 47:119. [PMID: 33955520 PMCID: PMC8099196 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2021.4952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs/miRs) are key regulators of renal interstitial fibrosis (RIF). The present study was designed to identify miRNAs associated with the development of RIF, and to explore the ability of these identified miRNAs to modulate the renal tubular epithelial‑to‑mesenchymal transition (EMT) process. To this end, miRNAs that were differentially expressed between normal and fibrotic kidneys in a rat model of mercury chloride (HgCl2)‑induced RIF were detected via an array‑based approach. Bioinformatics analyses revealed that miR‑101 was the miRNA that was most significantly downregulated in the fibrotic renal tissue samples, and this was confirmed by RT‑qPCR, which also demonstrated that this miRNA was downregulated in transforming growth factor (TGF)‑β1‑treated human proximal tubular epithelial (HK‑2) cells. When miR‑101 was overexpressed, this was sufficient to reverse TGF‑β1‑induced EMT in HK‑2 cells, leading to the upregulation of the epithelial marker, E‑cadherin, and the downregulation of the mesenchymal marker, α‑smooth muscle actin. By contrast, the downregulation of miR‑101 using an inhibitor exerted the opposite effect. The overexpression of miR‑101 also suppressed the expression of the miR‑101 target gene, TGF‑β1 type I receptor (TβR‑I), and thereby impaired TGF‑β1/Smad3 signaling, while the opposite was observed upon miR‑101 inhibition. To further confirm the ability of miR‑101 to modulate EMT, the HK‑2 cells were treated with the TβR‑I inhibitor, SB‑431542, which significantly suppressed TGF‑β1‑induced EMT in these cells. Notably, miR‑101 inhibition exerted a less pronounced effect upon EMT‑related phenotypes in these TβR‑I inhibitor‑treated HK‑2 cells, supporting a model wherein miR‑101 inhibits TGF‑β1‑induced EMT by suppressing TβR‑I expression. On the whole, the present study demonstrates that miR‑101 is capable of inhibiting TGF‑β1‑induced tubular EMT by targeting TβR‑I, suggesting that it may be an important regulator of RIF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinglan Wang
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, P.R. China
| | - Yanyan Tao
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, P.R. China
| | - Hongdong Xie
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, P.R. China
| | - Chenghai Liu
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, P.R. China
| | - Ping Liu
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, P.R. China
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12
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Yang T, Zheng TH, Zhao Q, Liu W, Li SP, Tao YY, Wang CH, Liu CH. Effects of Fuzheng Huayu recipe on entecavir pharmacokinetics in normal and dimethylnitrosamine-induced hepatic fibrosis rats. PHARMACEUTICAL BIOLOGY 2020; 58:1-7. [PMID: 31847670 PMCID: PMC6968529 DOI: 10.1080/13880209.2019.1687527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2018] [Revised: 05/22/2019] [Accepted: 10/26/2019] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Context: Fuzheng Huayu recipe (FZHY) combined with entecavir (ETV) is used to treat the cirrhosis caused by chronic hepatitis B (CHB) infection.Objective: To investigate the effect of FZHY on ETV pharmacokinetics under different conditions.Materials and methods: A model of liver fibrosis was created by intraperitoneal injection of dimethylnitrosamine (DMN; 10 μg/kg) for 4 weeks in Wistar rats. Ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry was used to determine the blood concentration of ETV. Pharmacokinetic characteristics of ETV (0.9 mg/kg) were investigated after co-administration with FZHY (0.55 g/kg) at certain time intervals in normal and model rats.Results: The analytical method for ETV was validated at 0.5-50 μg/L with a correlation coefficient = 0.9996, lower limit of quantitation of 0.5 μg/L and mean accuracy of 104.18 ± 9.46%. Compared with the ETV-N group, the pharmacokinetic parameters of the EF-2 group did not change significantly, but that of the EF-0 group decreased in Cmax to 27.38 μg/L, in AUC0-t from 323.84 to 236.67 μg/h/L, and a delay in Tmax from 0.75 to 6.00 h; that of the EF-0 group presented a decrease in Cmax of 61.92%, delay in t1/2 of 2.45 h and delay in Tmax of 2.92 h. The t1/2e and Vd/F of ETV were increased significantly to 8.01 h and 24.38 L/kg in the ETV-M group.Conclusions: The effects of FZHY on ETV pharmacokinetics were diminished with an increase of interval time. The best time to administer both drugs is >2 h apart.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Yang
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Cardiology, Institute of Cardiovascular Disease of Integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine, Shuguang Hospital affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Tian-Hui Zheng
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiang Zhao
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- The MOE Key Laboratory for Standardization of Chinese Medicines and The SATCM Key Laboratory for New Resources and Quality Evaluation of Chinese Medicines, Shanghai, China
| | - Shu-Ping Li
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- The MOE Key Laboratory for Standardization of Chinese Medicines and The SATCM Key Laboratory for New Resources and Quality Evaluation of Chinese Medicines, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan-Yan Tao
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Cardiology, Institute of Cardiovascular Disease of Integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine, Shuguang Hospital affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Chang-Hong Wang
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- The MOE Key Laboratory for Standardization of Chinese Medicines and The SATCM Key Laboratory for New Resources and Quality Evaluation of Chinese Medicines, Shanghai, China
| | - Cheng-Hai Liu
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Fuzheng Huayu recipe, a traditional Chinese compound herbal medicine, attenuates renal interstitial fibrosis via targeting the miR-21/PTEN/AKT axis. JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE-JIM 2020; 18:505-513. [PMID: 32912827 DOI: 10.1016/j.joim.2020.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE MicroRNAs (miRNAs) may be viable targets for treating renal interstitial fibrosis (RIF). Fuzheng Huayu recipe (FZHY), a traditional Chinese compound herbal medicine, is often used in China to treat fibrosis. This study sought to assess the mechanisms through which FZHY influences miRNAs to treat RIF. METHODS RIF was induced in rats by mercury chloride and treated with FZHY. Hydroxyproline content, Masson's staining and type I collagen expression were used to evaluate renal collagen deposition. Renal miRNA profiles were evaluated using a miRNA microarray. Those miRNAs that were differentially expressed following FZHY treatment were identified and subjected to bioinformatic analyses. The miR-21 target gene phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) expression and AKT phosphorylation in kidney tissues were assessed via Western blotting. In addition, HK-2 human proximal tubule epithelial cells were treated using angiotensin II (Ang-II) to induce epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), followed by FZHY exposure. miR-21 and PTEN expressions were evaluated via quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), while E-cadherin and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expressions were assessed by immunofluorescent staining and qRT-PCR. Western blotting was used to assess PTEN and AKT phosphorylation. RESULTS FZHY significantly decreased kidney collagen deposition, hydroxyproline content and type I collagen level. The miRNA microarray identified 20 miRNAs that were differentially expressed in response to FZHY treatment. Subsequent bioinformatic analyses found that miR-21 was the key fibrosis-related miRNA regulated by FZHY. FZHY also decreased PTEN expression and AKT phosphorylation in fibrotic kidneys. Results from in vitro tests also suggested that FZHY promoted E-cadherin upregulation and inhibited α-SMA expression in Ang-II-treated HK-2 cells, effectively reversing Ang-II-mediated EMT. We also determined that FZHY reduced miR-21 expression, increased PTEN expression and decreased AKT phosphorylation in these cells. CONCLUSION miR-21 is the key fibrosis-related miRNA regulated by FZHY. The ability of FZHY to modulate miR-21/PTEN/AKT signaling may be a viable approach for treating RIF.
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Yu Gan Long Ameliorates Hepatic Fibrosis by Inhibiting PI3K/AKT, Ras/ERK and JAK1/STAT3 Signaling Pathways in CCl 4-induced Liver Fibrosis Rats. Curr Med Sci 2020; 40:539-547. [PMID: 32681257 DOI: 10.1007/s11596-020-2211-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2020] [Revised: 06/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Yu Gan Long (YGL) is a Chinese traditional herbal formula which has been reported to attenuate liver fibrosis for many years and we have explored its anti-fibrotic mechanism through blocking transforming growth factor (TGF-β) in the previous study. But the mechanisms associated with platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-BB remain obscure. In this study, we further investigated the mechanism of YGL reducing carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver fibrosis in rats. Our results showed that YGL suppressed CCl4-induced upregulation of collagen IV (Col IV), type HI precollagen (PCHI), hyaluronuc acid (HA) and laminin (LN), which are implicated in liver fibrosis. Also, YGL reduced the α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expression, which acts as the indicator of liver fibrosis. Furthermore, YGL decreased the serum levels of hepatic stellate cell (HSC) mitogen PDGF-BB and inflammation cytokines, including TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6. Markers involved in liver fibrosis, such as Ras, p-Raf-1, p-ERK1/2, p-JNK, p-P38, p-PI3K, p-AKT, p-JAKl, p-STAT3 were downregulated significantly after treatment with YGL. Our results indicated that YGL ameliorated CCl4-induced liver fibrosis by reducing inflammation cytokines production, and suppressing Ras/ERK, PI3K/AKT, and JAK1/STAT3 signaling pathways, which provided further evidence towards elucidation of the anti-fibrotic mechanism of YGL.
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Bai J, Kwok WC, Thiery JP. Traditional Chinese Medicine and regulatory roles on epithelial-mesenchymal transitions. Chin Med 2019; 14:34. [PMID: 31558913 PMCID: PMC6755703 DOI: 10.1186/s13020-019-0257-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Accepted: 09/11/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a critical biological process allowing epithelial cells to de-differentiate into mesenchymal cells. Orchestrated signaling pathways cooperatively induce EMT and effect physiological, sometimes pathological outcomes. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has been clinically prescribed for thousands of years and recent studies have found that TCM therapies can participate in EMT regulation. In this review, the historical discovery of EMT will be introduced, followed by a brief overview of its major roles in development and diseases. The second section will focus on EMT in organ fibrosis and tissue regeneration. The third section discusses EMT-induced cancer metastasis, and details how EMT contribute to distant dissemination. Finally, new EMT players are described, namely microRNA, epigenetic modifications, and alternative splicing. TCM drugs that affect EMT proven through an evidence-based research approach will be presented in each section.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Bai
- 1Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, USA
| | - Wee Chiew Kwok
- 2Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jean-Paul Thiery
- Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health, Guangdong Laboratory, Guangzhou, China
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The effect and mechanisms of Fuzheng Huayu formula against chronic liver diseases. Biomed Pharmacother 2019; 114:108846. [PMID: 30965233 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2019.108846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2019] [Revised: 03/18/2019] [Accepted: 04/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Fuzheng Huayu formula (FZHY) is a traditional Chinese medicine formula composed of Radix Salvia Miltiorrhizae, Cordyceps, Semen Persicae, Gynostemma Pentaphyllammak, Pollen Pini, Fructus Schisandrae Chinensis that is used to treat chronic liver diseases in China. We here describe the pharmacological actions of FZHY in this review. We also describe and provide updates on recent advances in the medical applications and the basic research of mechanisms of FZHY formula. FZHY has been shown to have no serious adverse reactions and exerts antifibrotic effects through targeting more than one molecule.
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Zhang G, Cui G, Tong S, Cao Q. Salvianolic acid A alleviates the renal damage in rats with chronic renal failure1. Acta Cir Bras 2019; 34:e201900204. [PMID: 30843937 PMCID: PMC6585911 DOI: 10.1590/s0102-8650201900204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2018] [Accepted: 01/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose To investigate the protective effects of salvianolic acid A (SAA) on renal
damage in rats with chronic renal failure (CRF). Methods The five-sixth nephrectomy model of CRF was successfully established in
group CRF (10 rats) and group CRF+SAA (10 rats). Ten rats were selected as
sham-operated group (group S), in which only the capsules of both kidneys
were removed. The rats in group CRF+SAA were intragastrically administrated
with 10 mg/kg SAA for 8 weeks. The blood urine nitrogen (BUN), urine
creatinine (Ucr), creatinine clearance rate (Ccr), and serum uperoxide
dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) were tested. The expressions of
transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), bone morphogenetic protein 7 (BMP-7)
and Smad6 protein in renal tissue were determined. Results After treatment, compared with group CRF, in group CRF+SAA the BUN, Scr,
serum MDA and kidney/body weight ratio were decreased, the Ccr and serum SOD
were increased, the TGF-β1 protein expression level in renal tissue was
decreased, and the BMP-7 and Smad6 protein levels were increased (all P <
0.05). Conclusion SAA can alleviate the renal damage in CRF rats through anti-oxidant stress,
down-regulation of TGF-β1 signaling pathway and up-regulation of BMP-7/Smad6
signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangming Zhang
- Master, Department of Urology, Affiliated Hospital, Beihua University, China. Technical procedures, final approval
| | - Guanghua Cui
- Bachelor, Department of Urology, Affiliated Hospital of Beihua University, China. Acquisition of data, statistics analysis, final approval
| | - Shuangxi Tong
- Master, Department of Urology, Affiliated Hospital, Beihua University, China. Manuscript preparation, final approval
| | - Qingxian Cao
- Master, Department of Urology, Affiliated Hospital, Beihua University, China. Design of the study, critical revision, final approval
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Liu H, Zhang Z, Hu H, Zhang C, Niu M, Li R, Wang J, Bai Z, Xiao X. Protective effects of Liuweiwuling tablets on carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatic fibrosis in rats. Altern Ther Health Med 2018; 18:212. [PMID: 29986685 PMCID: PMC6038198 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-018-2276-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2017] [Accepted: 06/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Liuweiwuling tablets (LWWL) are an herbal product that exerts remarkable effects on liver protection and aminotransferase levels, and they have been approved by the Chinese State Food and Drug Administration (CFDA). Clinical studies have found that LWWL can inhibit collagen production and reduce the levels of liver fibrosis markers in the serum. Thus, LWWL is expected to have beneficial effects in the treatment of liver fibrosis. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the pharmacological effects of LWWL. METHODS Hepatic fibrosis was induced in rats via carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) treatment. The rats were treated twice weekly for 8 weeks with either 2 mL·kg- 1 body weight of a 50% solution of CCl4 in olive oil or olive oil alone by oral gavage. A subset of rats received daily intraperitoneal injections of either colchicine (0.2 mg/kg per day), LWWL (0.4, 1.6, or 6.4 g/kg per day), or vehicle (N = 12 for all groups) during weeks 9-12. The rats were sacrificed after 12 weeks. Pathological changes in hepatic tissue were examined using hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and Sirius Red staining. Immunohistochemistry was performed to observe α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and collagen type I (collagen I) protein expression. Western blotting was also used to detect α-SMA protein expression. Real-time quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was used to detect transforming growth factor-1 (TGF-β1), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP1), and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2 (TIMP2) mRNA expression. RESULTS LWWL significantly reversed histological fibrosis and liver injury, reduced the hydroxyproline content in liver tissue, and decreased α-SMA and collagen I expression. LWWL also suppressed hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation by reducing the expression of the profibrogenic factors TGF-β1 and PDGF. The expression levels of TIMP1 and TIMP2, which regulate extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation, were decreased after CCl4 injury in LWWL-treated rats. CONCLUSIONS These data suggest that LWWL may serve as a promising therapeutic agent to reduce fibrogenesis.
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Chen J, Tschudy-Seney B, Ma X, Zern MA, Liu P, Duan Y. Salvianolic Acid B Enhances Hepatic Differentiation of Human Embryonic Stem Cells Through Upregulation of WNT Pathway and Inhibition of Notch Pathway. Stem Cells Dev 2018; 27:252-261. [PMID: 29256825 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2017.0168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocytes differentiated from human embryonic stem cells (ESCs) could provide a powerful tool for enabling cell-based therapies, studying the mechanisms underlying human liver development and disease, and testing the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals. However, currently most in vitro protocols yield hepatocytes with low levels of liver function. In this study, we investigated the potential of Salvianolic acid B (Sal B), an active pharmaceutical compound present in Salvia miltiorrhiza, which has been shown to have an antifibrotic effect in previous studies, to enhance hepatocyte differentiation from human ESCs. After treatment with Sal B, albumin expression and secretion were consistently increased, indicating that Sal B could promote hepatocyte differentiation process. Expression of a large number of important phase 1 and 2 metabolizing enzymes and phase 3 transporters was also increased in treated cells, indicating an enhanced biotransformation function. Our investigations further revealed the activation of Wnt pathway in treated cells, as determined by upregulation of Wnts, which increased amounts of nuclear β-catenin. This increased nuclear β-catenin led in turn to the enhanced expression of T cell factor (TCF) 3 and lymphoid enhancer-binding factor (LEF) 1 which upregulated their downstream targets, cyclin D1 and c-Myc. Notch receptors (Notch1, Notch3), Notch ligand (Jagged2), and Notch receptor targets [hairy and enhancer of split (Hes) 1, 5] were downregulated in treated cells, suggesting that Notch pathway was inhibited. Consistent with the inhibition of Notch pathway, expression of cholangiocyte marker, CK7, was significantly reduced by treatment with Sal B. Numb, a direct transcriptional target of Wnt pathway and a negative regulator of Notch pathway, was upregulated, consistent with activation of Wnt signaling and suppression of Notch signaling. In conclusion, our study demonstrated that Sal B enhanced hepatocyte differentiation from human ESCs through activation of Wnt pathway and inhibition of Notch pathway. Therefore, this study suggests that Sal B can be used as a potential agent to generate more mature hepatocytes for cell-based therapeutics and pharmaceutical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiamei Chen
- 1 Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine , Shanghai, China .,2 Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China .,3 Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China .,4 E-institutes of Shanghai Municipal Education Commission, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine , Shanghai, China .,5 Department of Internal Medicine, Institute for Regenerative Cures, University of California Davis Medical Center , Sacramento, California
| | - Benjamin Tschudy-Seney
- 5 Department of Internal Medicine, Institute for Regenerative Cures, University of California Davis Medical Center , Sacramento, California
| | - Xiaocui Ma
- 5 Department of Internal Medicine, Institute for Regenerative Cures, University of California Davis Medical Center , Sacramento, California
| | - Mark A Zern
- 5 Department of Internal Medicine, Institute for Regenerative Cures, University of California Davis Medical Center , Sacramento, California
| | - Ping Liu
- 1 Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine , Shanghai, China .,2 Key Laboratory of Liver and Kidney Diseases (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China .,3 Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China .,4 E-institutes of Shanghai Municipal Education Commission, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine , Shanghai, China
| | - Yuyou Duan
- 5 Department of Internal Medicine, Institute for Regenerative Cures, University of California Davis Medical Center , Sacramento, California.,6 Department of Dermatology, Institute for Regenerative Cures, University of California Davis Medical Center , Sacramento, California
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Nogueira A, Pires MJ, Oliveira PA. Pathophysiological Mechanisms of Renal Fibrosis: A Review of Animal Models and Therapeutic Strategies. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017; 31:1-22. [PMID: 28064215 DOI: 10.21873/invivo.11019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 244] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2016] [Revised: 10/27/2016] [Accepted: 10/31/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a long-term condition in which the kidneys do not work correctly. It has a high prevalence and represents a serious hazard to human health and estimated to affects hundreds of millions of people. Diabetes and hypertension are the two principal causes of CKD. The progression of CKD is characterized by the loss of renal cells and their replacement by extracellular matrix (ECM), independently of the associated disease. Thus, one of the consequences of CKD is glomerulosclerosis and tubulointerstitial fibrosis caused by an imbalance between excessive synthesis and reduced breakdown of the ECM. There are many molecules and cells that are associated with progression of renal fibrosis e.g. angiotensin II (Ang II). Therefore, in order to understand the biopathology of renal fibrosis and for the evaluation of new treatments, the use of animal models is crucial such as: surgical, chemical and physical models, spontaneous models, genetic models and in vitro models. However, there are currently no effective treatments for preventing the progression of renal fibrosis. Therefore it is essential to improve our knowledge of the cellular and molecular mechanisms of the progress of renal fibrosis in order to achieve a reversion/elimination of renal fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- António Nogueira
- Center for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal.,Department of Therapeutic and Diagnostic Technologies, Polytechnic Institute of Bragança, Bragança, Portugal
| | - Maria João Pires
- Center for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal.,Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Paula Alexandra Oliveira
- Center for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal .,Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal
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Yuan JL, Tao YY, Wang QL, Shen L, Liu CH. Fuzheng Huayu Formula () prevents rat renal interstitial fibrosis induced by HgCl 2 via antioxidative stress and down-regulation of nuclear factor-kappa B activity. Chin J Integr Med 2017; 23:598-604. [PMID: 28197934 DOI: 10.1007/s11655-016-2540-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2014] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the mechanism of action of Fuzheng Huayu Formula (, FZHY) against renal interstitial fibrosis (RIF) relating to oxidative injury and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) activity. METHODS Thirty-two Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into 3 groups: normal group, model group and FZHY treatment group. The RIF model was induced by oral administration of HgCl2 at a dose of 8 mg/kg body weight once a day for 9 weeks. Meanwhile, rats in FZHY treatment group orally took FZHY at a dose of 4.0 g/kg rat weight for 9 weeks. The content of hydroxyproline (Hyp) and collagen deposition in kidney were observed. The activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), the content of glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) of kidney were tested. The expressions of inhibitor-κappa B (IκB), phospho-IκB (p-IκB), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) were analyzed by Western blot. α-SMA expression was also observed by immunofluorescent staining. MMP-2 activity was measured by gelatin zymography. NF-κB activation was determined by electrophoretic mobility shift assay. RESULTS Renal interstitial fibrosis was induced by HgCl2, demonstrated by remarkably increased Hyp contents and excessive collagen deposition in kidney (P<0.01). FZHY significantly inhibited renal interstitial collagen deposition and reduced Hyp content of the HgCl2-treated rats (P<0.01). GSH content decreased obviously, and MDA content increased signifificantly in HgCl2-treated rats compared with that of normal rats (P<0.01). FZHY significantly increased GSH content and decreased MDA content in the model rats (P<0.01). The expression α-SMA was increased in model rats compared with that of normal rats, FZHY signifificantly decreased its expression (P<0.01). The expressions of p-IκB and TNF-α and MMP-2, MMP-2 activity, and NF-κB activation were increased in model group compared with that in normal group (P<0.01), FZHY signifificantly decreased NF-κB activation, MMP-2 activity and p-IκB and TNF-α expressions (P<0.01). CONCLUSIONS FZHY could protect kidney from oxidative injury intoxicated by HgCl2, and antagonized oxidative stress-stimulated NF-κB activity through inhibition of IκB phosphorylation in the interstitial fibrotic kidney, these effects importantly contributed to FZHY action mechanism against renal interstitial fifibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Li Yuan
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Yan-Yan Tao
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Qing-Lan Wang
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Li Shen
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Cheng-Hai Liu
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China. .,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Traditional, Chinese Clinical Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China. .,E-Institute of TCM Internal Medicine, Shanghai Municipal Education Commission, Shanghai, 201203, China.
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Chen Q, Wu F, Wang M, Dong S, Liu Y, Lu Y, Song Y, Zhou Q, Liu P, Luo Y, Su S. Transcriptional Profiling and miRNA-Target Network Analysis Identify Potential Biomarkers for Efficacy Evaluation of Fuzheng-Huayu Formula-Treated Hepatitis B Caused Liver Cirrhosis. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:ijms17060883. [PMID: 27271613 PMCID: PMC4926417 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17060883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2016] [Revised: 05/26/2016] [Accepted: 05/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Fuzheng-Huayu (FZHY) formula has been found to have a satisfactory effect on hepatitis B-caused cirrhosis (HBC) treatment. However, the efficacy evaluation of FZHY is often challenging. In this study, a randomized, double-blind and placebo-controlled trial was used to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of FZHY in HBC treatment. In the trial, 35 medical indexes were detected, and 14 indexes had a statistically-significant difference before compared to after the trial. Importantly, the Child-Pugh score also demonstrated FZHY having therapeutic efficacy. Furthermore, the microRNA (miRNA) profiles of 12 serum samples were detected in FZHY groups, and 112 differential-expressed (DE) miRNAs were determined. Using predicted miRNA targets, 13 kernel miRNAs were identified from the established miRNA-target network. Subsequently, quantitative Real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR) was used to validate the expression level of 13 identified miRNAs in the trials. The results showed that nine miRNAs have a statistically-significant difference before compared to after FZHY treatment. By means of a logistic regression model, a miRNA panel with hsa-miR-18a-5p, -326, -1182 and -193b-5p was established, and it can clearly improve the accuracy of the efficacy evaluation of FZHY. This study suggested that the particular miRNAs can act as potential biomarkers and obviously increase the diagnostic accuracy for drug evaluation in HBC treatment progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qilong Chen
- Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine Complexity System, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
- Laboratory of Epigenetics, Institute of Biomedical Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
| | - Feizhen Wu
- Laboratory of Epigenetics, Institute of Biomedical Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
| | - Mei Wang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shanghai First People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai 201201, China.
| | - Shu Dong
- Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine Complexity System, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Yamin Liu
- Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine Complexity System, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Yiyu Lu
- Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine Complexity System, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Yanan Song
- Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine Complexity System, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Qianmei Zhou
- Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine Complexity System, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Ping Liu
- Institute of Liver Disease, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Yunquan Luo
- Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Shibing Su
- Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine Complexity System, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
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YIANG GIOUTENG, CHEN JENNI, LIN PEISHIUAN, LIU HSIAOCHUN, CHEN SHUYING, WEI CHYOUWEI. Combined treatment with vitamin E and gefitinib has synergistic effects to inhibit TGF-β1-induced renal fibroblast proliferation. Mol Med Rep 2016; 13:5372-8. [DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2016.5155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2015] [Accepted: 04/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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Enhancement of hepatocyte differentiation from human embryonic stem cells by Chinese medicine Fuzhenghuayu. Sci Rep 2016; 6:18841. [PMID: 26733102 PMCID: PMC4702137 DOI: 10.1038/srep18841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2015] [Accepted: 11/27/2015] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Chinese medicine, Fuzhenghuayu (FZHY), appears to prevent fibrosis progression and improve liver function in humans. Here we found that FZHY enhanced hepatocyte differentiation from human embryonic stem cells (hESC). After treatment with FZHY, albumin expression was consistently increased during differentiation and maturation process, and expression of metabolizing enzymes and transporter were also increased. Importantly, expression of mesenchymal cell and cholangiocyte marker was significantly reduced by treatment with FZHY, indicating that one possible mechanism of FZHY’s role is to inhibit the formation of mesenchymal cells and cholangiocytes. Edu-labelled flow cytometric analysis showed that the percentage of the Edu positive cells was increased in the treated cells. These results indicate that the enhanced proliferation involved hepatocytes rather than another cell type. Our investigations further revealed that these enhancements by FZHY are mediated through activation of canonical Wnt and ERK pathways and inhibition of Notch pathway. Thus, FZHY not only promoted hepatocyte differentiation and maturation, but also enhanced hepatocyte proliferation. These results demonstrate that FZHY appears to represent an excellent therapeutic agent for the treatment of liver fibrosis, and that FZHY treatment can enhance our efforts to generate mature hepatocytes with proliferative capacity for cell-based therapeutics and for pharmacological and toxicological studies.
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Fuzheng Huayu Recipe Ameliorates Liver Fibrosis by Restoring Balance between Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition and Mesenchymal-to-Epithelial Transition in Hepatic Stellate Cells. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2015; 2015:935903. [PMID: 26881209 PMCID: PMC4736000 DOI: 10.1155/2015/935903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2015] [Accepted: 12/16/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) depending on epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) reflects the key event of liver fibrosis. Contrastively, mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition (MET) of HSCs facilitates the fibrosis resolution. Here we investigated the effect of Fuzheng Huayu (FZHY) recipe, a Chinese herbal decoction made of Radix Salviae Miltiorrhizae, Semen Persicae, Cordyceps sinensis, Pollen Pini, and Gynostemma pentaphyllum, on liver fibrosis concerning the balance of EMT and MET in HSCs. In contrast to the increased TGF-β1/BMP-7 ratio in activated HSCs, FZHY administration induced significant upregulation of BMP-7 and downregulation of TGF-β1 at both transcription and translation levels. Restoration of TGF-β1/BMP-7 ratio inhibited the expression of p38 MAPK and phosphorylated p38 MAPK, resulting in the reversal of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) to mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition (MET) as characterized by the abolishment of EMT markers (α-SMA and desmin) and reoccurrence of MET marker (E-cadherin). In vivo treatment of FZHY recipe also demonstrated the statistical reduction of activated HSCs with EMT phenotype, which attenuated the carbon tetrachloride- (CCl4-) induced liver fibrosis in a dose-dependent manner. These findings may highlight a novel antifibrotic role of FZHY recipe on the basis of rebalancing EMT and MET in HSCs.
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Dong S, Chen QL, Su SB. Curative Effects of Fuzheng Huayu on Liver Fibrosis and Cirrhosis: A Meta-Analysis. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2015; 2015:125659. [PMID: 26221168 PMCID: PMC4499386 DOI: 10.1155/2015/125659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2014] [Revised: 04/07/2015] [Accepted: 04/16/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The Fuzheng Huayu (FZHY) formula is being used in antiliver fibrosis treatment in China. For systemic evaluation of the curative effects of FZHY on liver fibrosis and cirrhosis progress, a total of 1392 subjects (714 cases and 678 controls) were found to be eligible for meta-analysis in this study. Standard mean differences (SMDs) with 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated for changes between FZHY groups and controls by employing fixed effects or random effects model. In the overall analysis, alanine transaminase (ALT) (P = 0.003, SMD = -0.87, 95% CI: -1.46 to -0.29), total bilirubin (TBil) (P = 0.001, SMD = -1.30, 95% CI: -2.10 to -0.50), hyaluronic acid (HA) (P = 0.000, SMD = -0.94, 95% CI: -1.30 to -0.58), laminin (LN) (P = 0.000, SMD = -0.80, 95% CI: -1.20 to -0.41), type III procollagen (PC-III) (P = 0.000, SMD = -1.27, 95% CI: -1.93 to -0.60), and type IV procollagen (IV-C) (P = 0.000, SMD = -0.78, 95% CI: -1.05 to -0.51) were decreased after FZHY treatment; however, albumin (ALB) was increased (P = 0.037, SMD = 1.10, 95% CI: 0.07 to 2.12) significantly. Furthermore, the Child-Pugh score was reduced significantly and the life quality was improved after FZHY treatment in cirrhosis patients. The results of this meta-analysis indicated that FZHY effectively improves the liver function, alleviates hepatic fibrosis, decreases Child-Pugh score, and relieves TCM symptoms caused by liver dysfunction, indicating that FZHY may contribute to the alleviation of liver fibrosis and cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu Dong
- Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine Complexity System, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Qi-Long Chen
- Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine Complexity System, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Shi-Bing Su
- Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine Complexity System, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
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Wang JS, Wang X, Liu YQ, Chen LY, Zhu YL, Gu B, Sun GZ. Taohong Qizhu Ruangan Jian reverses epithelial-mesenchymal transition via transforming growth factor beta/Smad signaling pathway. Shijie Huaren Xiaohua Zazhi 2015; 23:2036-2049. [DOI: 10.11569/wcjd.v23.i13.2036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To explore whether Taohong Qizhu Ruangan Jian (TQRJ) reverses epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and the underlying mechanism.
METHODS: HepG2 cells were divided into seven groups: a blank group, an EMT group, low-, medium- and high-dose TQRJ groups, a Fuzheng Huayu recipe group (FZHY group), and a colchicine group (QSXJ group). Immunofluorescence and Western blot were used to detect the expression of E-cadherin, Vimentin, Smad2, and transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) R1. The levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), and alpha fetoprotein (AFP) in cell supernatants were also determined.
RESULTS: AFP concentration significantly decreased after 3 d in the EMT group (P < 0.05). After drug intervention, ALT and AST levels decreased significantly compared with the EMT group (P < 0.05). ALT levels were significantly lower in the low- and medium-dose TQRJ groups than in the FZHY and QSXJ groups (P < 0.05), and AST levels were significantly lower in the medium- and high-dose TQRJ groups than in the FZHY and QSXJ groups (P < 0.05). TQRJ could improve EMT, especially in the medium- and high-dose TQRJ groups. TQRJ could increase E-cadherin expression and reduce the expression of Smad2, TGF-β R1 and Vimentin.
CONCLUSION: TQRJ can reverse EMT possibly via the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway and thus may has anti-liver fibrotic effects.
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Potent natural products and herbal medicines for treating liver fibrosis. Chin Med 2015; 10:7. [PMID: 25897319 PMCID: PMC4403904 DOI: 10.1186/s13020-015-0036-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2014] [Accepted: 04/01/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a wound-healing response to chronic liver injury characterized by progressive inflammation and deposition of extracellular matrix components. The pathological condition of liver fibrosis involves secretion of extracellular matrix proteins and formation of scar tissue. The major regulators involved in hepatic fibrogenesis are the transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1/SMAD and toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)-initiated myeloid differentiation primary response 88 gene (MyD88)/NF-ĸB cell signaling pathways. This article reviews natural products and herbal medicines that have demonstrated activity against liver fibrosis through different mechanisms of action, including anti-hepatitis B and C virus activity, anti-inflammation, inhibition of cytokine production and nuclear receptor activation, and free radical scavenging.
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Faghani M, Kohestani Y, Nasiri E, Moladoust H, Mesbah M. Protective Effect of Vitamin E on Formaldehyde-Induced Injuries in the Rat Kidney. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014. [DOI: 10.17795/gct-21539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Li QY, Guo ZZ, Deng X, Xu LM, Gao YQ, Zhang W, Wang XS, Xue DY, Lu YY, Liu P, Su SB. Curative Effects of ZHENG-Based Fuzheng-Huayu Tablet on Hepatitis B Caused Cirrhosis Related to CYP1A2 Genetic Polymorphism. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2013; 2013:302131. [PMID: 24282434 PMCID: PMC3824415 DOI: 10.1155/2013/302131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2013] [Accepted: 09/05/2013] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Aim. To investigate the correlation of Fuzheng-Huayu tablet (FZHY) efficacy on chronic hepatitis B caused cirrhosis (HBC) and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of CYP1A2. Methods. After 111 cases of HBC with 69 excess, 21 deficiency-excess, and 21 deficiency ZHENGs (ZHENG, also called traditional Chinese medicine syndrome) were treated by FZHY for 6 months, clinical symptoms, Child-Pugh score, and ZHENG score were observed. Three of the SNPs in CYP1A2 gene were detected and analyzed using SNaPshot assay. Results. In ZHENG efficacy between effective and invalid groups, there was significant difference (P < 0.001). The ZHENG deficiency was significantly correlated with FZHY efficacy (P < 0.05). AA genotype of CYP1A2-G2964A was significantly different with GG genotype (P < 0.05) between CYP1A2 Genotypes and FZHY efficacy on ZHENG. More importantly, GA plus AA genotype of CYP1A2-G2964A was significantly different with deficiency ZHENG (P < 0.05) between CYP1A2 genotypes and FZHY efficacy on ZHENG. Conclusion. FZHY improved ZHENG score of HBC, and these efficacies may relate to CYP1A2-G2964A sites. It was suggested that CYP1A2-G2964A locus is probably a risk factor for ZHENG-based FZHY efficacy in HBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing-Ya Li
- Research Center for TCM Complexity System, Shanghai University of TCM, Shanghai 201203, China
- Key Laboratory of Viral Disease Prevention and Treatment of Traditional Chinese Medicine of Henan Province, Zhengzhou 450008, China
- Henan University of TCM, Zhengzhou 450008, China
| | - Zhi-Zhong Guo
- Research Center for TCM Complexity System, Shanghai University of TCM, Shanghai 201203, China
- Key Laboratory of Viral Disease Prevention and Treatment of Traditional Chinese Medicine of Henan Province, Zhengzhou 450008, China
| | - Xin Deng
- Ruikang Hospital of Guangxi University of TCM, Nanning, Guangxi 530011, China
| | - Lie-Ming Xu
- Shanghai Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of TCM, Shanghai 200021, China
| | - Yue-Qiu Gao
- Shanghai Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of TCM, Shanghai 200021, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Shanghai Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of TCM, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Xiao-Su Wang
- Shanghai Yueyang Hospital, Shanghai University of TCM, Shanghai 200437, China
| | - Dong-Ying Xue
- Shanghai Putuo Hospital, Shanghai University of TCM, Shanghai 200060, China
| | - Yi-Yu Lu
- Research Center for TCM Complexity System, Shanghai University of TCM, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Ping Liu
- Shanghai University of TCM, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Shi-Bing Su
- Research Center for TCM Complexity System, Shanghai University of TCM, Shanghai 201203, China
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Therapeutic efficacy of fuzheng-huayu tablet based traditional chinese medicine syndrome differentiation on hepatitis-B-caused cirrhosis: a multicenter double-blind randomized controlled trail. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2013; 2013:709305. [PMID: 23533516 PMCID: PMC3606729 DOI: 10.1155/2013/709305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2012] [Revised: 01/25/2013] [Accepted: 02/08/2013] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Aim. To evaluate and predict the therapeutic efficacy of Fuzheng-Huayu tablet (FZHY) based traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) syndrome differentiation or TCM symptoms on chronic hepatitis B caused cirrhosis (HBC). Methods. The trial was designed according to CONSORT statement. It was a multi-center, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trail. Several clinical parameters, Child-Pugh classification and TCM symptoms were detected and evaluated. The FZHY efficacy was predicted by an established Bayes forecasting method following the Bayes classification model. Results. The levels of HA and TCM syndrome score in FZHY group were significantly decreased (P < 0.05) compared to placebo group, respectively. The efficacy of FZHY on TCM syndrome score in HBC patients with some TCM syndromes was better. In TCM syndrome score evaluation, there were 53 effective and 22 invalid in FZHY group. TCM symptoms predicted FZHY efficacy on HBC were close to Child-Pugh score prediction. Conclusion. FZHY decreases the levels of HA and TCM syndrome scores, improves the life quality of HBC patients. Moreover, there were different therapeutic efficacies among different TCM syndromes, indicating that accurate TCM syndrome differentiation might guide the better TCM treatment. Furthermore, the FZHY efficacy was able to predict by Bayes forecasting method through the alteration of TCM symptoms.
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Cheng Q, Li N, Chen M, Zheng J, Qian Z, Wang X, Huang C, Li Q, Lin Q, Shi G. Fuzheng Huayu inhibits carbon tetrachloride-induced liver fibrosis in mice through activating hepatic NK cells. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2013; 145:175-181. [PMID: 23127651 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2012.10.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2012] [Revised: 10/14/2012] [Accepted: 10/25/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
AIM OF THE STUDY Fuzheng Huayu (FZHY) is a Chinese compound herbal preparation which consists of six Chinese herbs. This study examines the preventative effects of FZHY on liver fibrosis induced by carbon tetrachloride (CCl(4)) and explores its possible mechanisms of action. MATERIALS AND METHODS Liver fibrosis was induced in male C57BL/6N mice by injecting a 10% CCl(4) solution intraperitoneal twice a week for six weeks. After 6 weeks of treatment, serum ALT and AST assay, liver tissue histological examination and immunostaining were carried out to examine the liver function and fibrosis degree. The expression levels of alpha-smooth muscle actin (SMA) were measured by quantitative real-time PCR and western blot. Hepatic natural killer (NK) cells were isolated from liver and evaluated by FACS. RESULTS Upon pathological examination, the FZHY-treated mice showed significantly reduced liver damage. The expression of α-SMA increased markedly upon treatment with CCl(4) and the increase was reversed by FZHY treatment. FZHY treatment also enhanced the activation of hepatic NK cells and the production of interferon-gamma (IFN-γ). The protective effects of FZHY were reversed in the mice that were depleted of NK cells by anti-ASGM-1 Ab treatment. CONCLUSIONS FZHY can efficiently inhibit CCl(4)-induced liver fibrosis. Furthermore, the depletion of NK cells attenuates the protective effects of FZHY. We conclude that FZHY could be an effective drug for liver fibrosis, and its mechanism of action involves the activation of hepatic NK cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Cheng
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
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Huangqi decoction inhibits apoptosis and fibrosis, but promotes Kupffer cell activation in dimethylnitrosamine-induced rat liver fibrosis. BMC COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2012; 12:51. [PMID: 22531084 PMCID: PMC3495215 DOI: 10.1186/1472-6882-12-51] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2011] [Accepted: 03/26/2012] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previously, Huangqi decoction (HQD) has been found to have a potential therapeutic effect on DMN-induced liver cirrhosis. Here, the mechanisms of HQD action against liver fibrosis were investigated in relation to hepatocyte apoptosis and hepatic inflammation regulation. METHODS Liver fibrosis was induced by DMN administration for 2 or 4 weeks. Hepatocyte apoptosis and of Kupffer cells (KC) and hepatic stellate cells (HSC) interaction were investigated using confocal microscopy. The principle cytokines, fibrogenic proteins and apoptotic factors were investigated using western blot analysis. RESULTS Compared with the DMN-water group, HQD showed decreased hepatocyte apoptosis and reduced expression of apoptotic effectors, cleaved-caspase-3, and fibrotic factors, such as smooth muscle α-actin (α-SMA), transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGF-β1). However, the KC marker CD68 increased significantly in DMN-HQD liver. Confocal microscopy demonstrated widespread adhesion of KCs to HSCs in DMN-water and DMN-HQD rats liver. CONCLUSIONS HQD exhibited positive protective effects against liver fibrosis; its mechanism of action was associated with protection from hepatocyte apoptosis and the promotion of CD68 expression in the devolopment of liver fibrosis to cirrhosis development.
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The molecular mediators of type 2 epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) and their role in renal pathophysiology. Expert Rev Mol Med 2010; 12:e17. [PMID: 20504380 DOI: 10.1017/s1462399410001481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Common to all forms of chronic kidney disease is the progressive scarring of the tubulo-interstitial space, associated with the acquisition and accumulation of activated myofibroblasts. Many of these myofibroblasts are generated when tubular epithelial cells progressively lose their epithelial characteristics (cell-cell contact, microvilli, tight-junction proteins, apical-basal polarity) and acquire features of a mesenchymal lineage, including stress fibres, filopodia and augmented matrix synthesis. This process, known as epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), plays an important role in progressive kidney disease. For EMT to occur in tubular cells, the transcriptional activation (and derepression) of genes required to sustain mesenchymal-type structures and functions (e.g. vimentin, alpha-smooth muscle actin) must occur alongside repression (or deactivation) of genes that act to maintain the epithelial phenotype (e.g. E-cadherin, bone morphogenic protein 7). Several factors have been suggested as potential initiators of EMT. With a few key exceptions, these triggers require the induction of transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta) and downstream mediators, including SMADs, CTGF, ILK and SNAI1. Activation of TGF-beta receptors is also able to stimulate a range of additional pathways (so-called non-SMAD activation), including RhoA, mitogen-activated protein kinase and phosphoinositide 3-kinase signalling cascades, that also contribute to EMT and renal fibrogenesis. This review examines in detail the molecular mediators of EMT in tubular cells and its potential role as a long-lasting mediator of metabolic stress.
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