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Yin Q, Huang Q, Zhang H, Zhang X, Fan C, Wang H. Anti-rheumatoid arthritis effects of traditional Chinese medicine Fufang Xiaohuoluo pill on collagen-induced arthritis rats and MH7A cells. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1374485. [PMID: 38741593 PMCID: PMC11089244 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1374485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Fufang Xiaohuoluo pill (FFXHL) is a commonly used prescription in clinical practice for treating rheumatoid arthritis in China, yet its specific mechanism remains unclear. This study aims to elucidate the pharmacological mechanisms of FFXHL using both in vivo and in vitro experiments. Methods The collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) rat model was established to evaluate FFXHL's therapeutic impact. Parameters that include paw swelling, arthritis scores, and inflammatory markers were examined to assess the anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of FFXHL. Human fibroblast-like synoviocytes (MH7A cells) is activated by tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) were used to explore the anti-inflammatory mechanism on FFXHL. Results Our findings indicate that FFXHL effectively reduced paw swelling, joint pain, arthritis scores, and synovial pannus hyperplasia. It also lowered serum levels of TNF-α, interleukin-1β (IL1β), and interleukin-6 (IL-6). Immunohistochemical analysis revealed decreased expression of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) p65 in FFXHL-treated CIA rat joints. In vitro experiments demonstrated FFXHL's ability to decrease protein secretion of IL-1β and IL-6, suppress mRNA expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) -3, -9, and -13, reduce reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, and inhibit NF-κB p65 translocation in TNF-α stimulated MH7A cells. FFXHL also suppressed protein levels of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), c-Jun Nterminal kinase (JNK), p38 MAP kinase (p38), protein kinase B (Akt), p65, inhibitor of kappa B kinase α/β (IKKα/β), Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), and myeloid differentiation primary response 88 (MyD88) induced by TNF-α in MH7A cells. Conclusion The findings imply that FFXHL exhibits significant anti-inflammatory and antiarthritic effects in both CIA rat models and TNF-α-induced MH7A cells. The potential mechanism involves the inactivation of TLR4/MyD88, mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), NF-κB, and Akt pathways by FFXHL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiong Yin
- Scientific Research Institute of Beijing Tongrentang Co., Ltd., Beijing, China
| | - Qian Huang
- Scientific Research Institute of Beijing Tongrentang Co., Ltd., Beijing, China
| | - Hantao Zhang
- Scientific Research Institute of Beijing Tongrentang Co., Ltd., Beijing, China
| | - Xiaodi Zhang
- Scientific Research Institute of Beijing Tongrentang Co., Ltd., Beijing, China
| | | | - Hongping Wang
- Scientific Research Institute of Beijing Tongrentang Co., Ltd., Beijing, China
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Xiang G, Guo S, Qin J, Gao H, Zhang Y, Wang S. Comprehensive insight into the pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, toxicity, detoxification and extraction of hypaconitine from Aconitum plants. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 321:117505. [PMID: 38016573 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.117505] [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: 09/10/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Hypaconitine (HA), a diterpenoid alkaloid, mainly derived from Aconitum plants such as Acoitum carmichaeli Debx. And Aconitum nagarum Stapf., has recently piqued significant interest among the scientific community given its multifaceted attributes including anti-inflammatory, anticancer, analgesic, and cardio-protective properties. AIM OF THE STUDY This review presents a comprehensive exploration of the research advancements regarding the traditional uses, pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, toxicity, and toxicity reduction of HA. It aims to provide a thorough understanding of HA's multifaceted properties and its potential applications in various fields. MATERIALS AND METHODS A systematic literature search was conducted using several prominent databases including PubMed, Web of Science, NCBI, and CNKI. The search was performed using specific keywords such as "hypaconitine," "heart failure," "anti-inflammatory," "aconite decoction," "pharmacological," "pharmacokinetics," "toxicity," "detoxification or toxicity reduction," and "extraction and isolation." The inclusion of these keywords ensured a comprehensive exploration of relevant studies and enabled the retrieval of valuable information pertaining to the various aspects of HA. RESULTS Existing research has firmly established that HA possesses a range of pharmacological effects, encompassing anti-cardiac failure, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anti-tumor properties. The therapeutic potential of HA is promising, with potential applications in heart failure, ulcerative colitis, cancer, and other diseases. Pharmacokinetic studies suggest that HA exhibits high absorption rates, broad distribution, and rapid metabolism. However, toxic effects of HA on the nerves, heart, and embryos have also been observed. To mitigate these risks, HA needs attenuation before use, with the most common detoxification methods being processing and combined use with other drugs. Extraction methods for HA most commonly include cold maceration, soxhlet reflux extraction, and ultrasonic-assisted extraction. Despite the potential therapeutic benefits of HA, further research is warranted to elucidate its anti-heart failure effects, particularly in vivo, exploring aspects such as in vivo metabolism, distribution, and metabolites. Additionally, the therapeutic effects of HA monomers on inflammation-induced diseases and tumors should be validated in a more diverse range of experimental models, while the mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effects of HA should be investigated in greater detail. CONCLUSION This review serves to emphasize the therapeutic potential of HA and highlights the crucial need to address its toxicity concerns before considering clinical application. Further research is required to comprehensively investigate the pharmacological properties of HA, with particular emphasis on its anti-cardiac failure and anti-inflammatory activities. Such research endeavors have the potential to unveil novel treatment avenues for a broad spectrum of diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gelin Xiang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Ethnic Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China.
| | - Sa Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China.
| | - Jing Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Ethnic Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China.
| | - Huimin Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China.
| | - Yi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Ethnic Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China.
| | - Shaohui Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Ethnic Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China; Meishan Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Meishan, 620010, China.
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Hua X, Feng X, Hua Y, Wang D. Paeoniflorin attenuates polystyrene nanoparticle-induced reduction in reproductive capacity and increase in germline apoptosis through suppressing DNA damage checkpoints in Caenorhabditis elegans. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 871:162189. [PMID: 36775158 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.162189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Due to high sensitivity to environmental exposures, Caenorhabditis elegans is helpful for toxicity evaluation and toxicological study of pollutants. Using this animal model, we investigated the reproductive toxicity of 20 nm polystyrene nanoparticle (PS-NP) in the range of μg/L and the following pharmacological intervention of paeoniflorin. After exposure from L1-larvae to young adults, 10-100 μg/L PS-NP could cause the reduction in reproductive capacity reflected by the endpoints of brood size and number of fertilized eggs in uterus. Meanwhile, the enhancements in germline apoptosis analyzed by AO staining and germline DNA damage as shown by alteration in HUS-1::GFP signals were detected in 10-100 μg/L PS-NP exposed nematodes, suggesting the role of DNA damage-induced germline apoptosis in mediating PS-NP toxicity on reproductive capacity. Following the exposure to 100 μg/L PS-NP, posttreatment with 25-100 mg/L paeoniflorin increased the reproductive capacity and inhibited both germline apoptosis and DNA damage. In addition, in 100 μg/L PS-NP exposed nematodes, treatment with 100 mg/L paeoniflorin modulated the expressions of genes governing germline apoptosis as indicated by the decrease in ced-3, ced-4, an egl-1 expressions and the increase in ced-9 expression. After exposure to 100 μg/L PS-NP, treatment with 100 mg/L paeoniflorin also decreased expressions of genes (cep-1, clk-2, hus-1, and mrt-2) governing germline DNA damage. Molecular docking analysis further demonstrated the binding potential of paeoniflorin with three DNA damage checkpoints (CLK-2, HUS-1, and MRT-2). Therefore, our data suggested the toxicity of PS-NP in the range of μg/L on reproductive capacity after exposure from L1-larvae to young adults, which was associated with the enhancement in DNA damage-induced germline apoptosis. More importantly, the PS-NP-induced reproductive toxicity on nematodes could be inhibited by the following paeoniflorin treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Hua
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering of Ministry of Education, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Xiao Feng
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering of Ministry of Education, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yingshun Hua
- Lintao Maternity and Child Health Center, Lintao 730500, China
| | - Dayong Wang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering of Ministry of Education, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China; Shenzhen Ruipuxun Academy for Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine, Shenzhen 518122, China.
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Liu X, Tao H, Tian R, Huang W, Zhang T, Liu Y, Zhang Y, Meng X. Hezi inhibits Tiebangchui-induced cardiotoxicity and preserves its anti-rheumatoid arthritis effects by regulating the pharmacokinetics of aconitine and deoxyaconitine. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 302:115915. [PMID: 36375646 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2022.115915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Tiebangchui (TBC, dried roots of Aconitum pendulum Busch. and Aconitum flavum Hand.-Mazz.) is a well-known Tibetan medicine for dispelling cold and relieving pain. In China, it is widely used in prevention and treatment of various diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA), traumatic injury, and fracture. However, its cardiotoxicity and neurotoxicity seriously restrict its clinical application. Traditionally, Hezi (HZ, dry ripe fruit of Terminalia chebula Retz. and Terminalia chebula Retz. var. tomentella Kurt.) is generally used in combination with TBC for the purpose of toxicity reducing and efficacy enhancing, but so far we still can't clearly elucidate the compatibility effect and mechanism of the classical herbal pair. AIM OF STUDY To investigate the compatibility effect and mechanism of TBC co-administered with HZ. METHODS In the present study, we clarified the cardioprotective role of HZ on the cardiotoxicity induced by TBC. The electrocardiogram, the levels of serum cardiac troponin T (cTnT), the activities of cardiac superoxide dismutase (SOD), malonaldehyde (MDA), and histopathology of heart tissue have been determined in each group. Meanwhile, the anti-RA effect of each group was investigated by paw swelling measurement and histopathological examination of synovial. To explore the underlying mechanism, we performed the pharmacokinetic studies of aconitine (AC) and deoxyaconitine (DE) in TBC group and TBC + HZ group by ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS) system. RESULTS TBC co-administered with HZ could significantly inhibit the increased heart rate and the prolonged QTc interval induced by TBC (p < 0.01). And TBC + HZ group had lower levels of serum cTnT, cardiac MDA, and higher levels of cardiac SOD compared with TBC group (p < 0.01). In addition, the combination of TBC and HZ could preserve the anti-RA effect of TBC. Both TBC administration alone and TBC + HZ combination administration could effectively alleviate the paw swelling (p < 0.01). Furthermore, TBC co-administered with HZ could significantly decrease the area under the concentration-time curve (AUC(0-∞)) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of AC and DE comapred with TBC administration alone (p < 0.01 or p < 0.05). Meanwhile, it was observed that the time to reach the peak concentration (Tmax), elimination half-life (t1/2), mean retention time (MRT) of AC and DE in TBC group were significantly higher than those in TBC + HZ group (p < 0.01 or p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS TBC co-administered with HZ could reduce TBC-induced cardiotoxicty and preserve its anti-RA efficacy. The underlying mechanism is associated with the change of pharmacokinetic process of AC and DE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianfeng Liu
- College of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Honglin Tao
- College of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Ruimin Tian
- Department of Pharmacology, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, 637000, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Wenge Huang
- College of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Tao Zhang
- College of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Yue Liu
- School of Ethnic Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Yi Zhang
- School of Ethnic Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Xianli Meng
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Innovative Institute of Chinese Medicine and Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, Sichuan, PR China.
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Wu J, Duan R, Deng H, Li L, Zhao Y, Yu Z. The effect of compatibility of Aconiti Radix and honey on the pharmacokinetics of five Aconitum alkaloids in rat plasma. Biomed Chromatogr 2022; 36:e5453. [PMID: 35853731 DOI: 10.1002/bmc.5453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Aconiti Radix (Chuanwu [CW]), is widely used for the treatment of the chronic and intractable diseases due to its remarkable curative effect. CW has been combined with honey for thousands of years to reduce toxicity and enhance efficacy. This study first clarified compatibility mechanism of CW co-used with honey using a comparative pharmacokinetic idea. We developed and validated a simple, sensitive, specific, and accurate UHPLC-MS/MS method to simultaneously determine five Aconitum alkaloids in rat plasma after oral administration of CW decoction and CW-honey concentrated solution. Pharmacokinetic parameters were significantly different between the two groups (P<0.01 and P<0.05). Compared with CW group, Cmax and AUC0→t were decreased in CW-honey group for three diester-diterpenoid alkaloids (hypaconitine, mesaconitine and aconitine); Tmax and T1/2 were prolonged. However, Cmax and AUC0→t were increased in CW-honey group for two monoester-diterpenoid alkaloids (benzoylaconine and benzoylmesaconine); Tmax was shortened; T1/2 was prolonged. These findings suggest that honey affected the pharmacokinetic behaviors of five Aconitum alkaloids. We speculate that the detoxification and synergism of honey might result from reducing the toxicity of diester-diterpenoid alkaloids and promoting the biological activity of monoester-diterpenoid alkaloids in vivo. This study provides a theoretical basis for the clinical use of CW combined with honey.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaofeng Wu
- School of Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Rong Duan
- School of Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Haoran Deng
- School of Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Lele Li
- School of Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Yunli Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhiguo Yu
- School of Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, People's Republic of China
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Gao Y, Fan H, Nie A, Yang K, Xing H, Gao Z, Yang L, Wang Z, Zhang L. Aconitine: A review of its pharmacokinetics, pharmacology, toxicology and detoxification. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 293:115270. [PMID: 35405250 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2022.115270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2021] [Revised: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Aconitine, a C19-norditerpenoid alkaloid, derives from many medicinal plants such as Aconitum carmichaelii Debx. (Chinese:), Aconitum kusnezoffii Reichb (Chinese:), which were used to rheumatic fever, painful joints and some endocrinal disorders. AIMS OF THE REVIEW The present paper reviews research progress relating to the pharmacokinetics, physiological and pathological processes of aconitine, while some promising research direction and the detoxification of aconitine are also discussed. MATERIALS AND METHODS The accessible literature on aconitine, from 1990 to 2020, obtained from published materials of electronic databases, such as SCI finder, PubMed, Web of Science, Science Direct, Springer and Google Scholar was systematically analyzed. RESULTS In this review, we address the pharmacokinetics of aconitine, as well as its pharmacological effects including anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-virus, immunoregulation, analgesic, insecticide and inhibition of androgen synthesis. Further, we summarize the toxicity of aconitine such as cardiotoxicity and neurotoxicity, on which we strikingly focus on the ways to reduce the toxicity of aconitine based. CONCLUSIONS Aconitine plays an vital role in a wide range of physiological and pathological processes and we can reduce the toxicity of aconitine by compatibility and hydrolysis. Although some issues still exist, such as the correlative relationship between the dose and toxicity of aconitine not being clear, our review may provide new ideas for the application of aconitine in the treatment of related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yabin Gao
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450000, China.
| | - Hang Fan
- Changzhou Hygiene Vocational Technology College, Changzhou, 213000, China
| | - Anzheng Nie
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450000, China
| | - Kang Yang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450000, China
| | - Haiyan Xing
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450000, China
| | - Zhiqing Gao
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450000, China
| | - Liujie Yang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450000, China
| | - Zheng Wang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450000, China
| | - Linqi Zhang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450000, China
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An insight into current advances on pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, toxicity and detoxification of aconitine. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 151:113115. [PMID: 35605296 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Aconitine is a diterpenoid alkaloid, which mainly exists in the plants of Aconitum. In the last decade, a plethora of studies on the pharmacological activities of aconitine has been conducted and demonstrated that aconitine possessed an extensive range of pharmacological activities such as anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, local anesthesia, and immunomodulatory effects. Pharmacokinetic studies indicated that aconitine may have the characteristics of poor bioavailability, wide distribution, and slow elimination. However, studies have also found that aconitine has toxic effects on the heart, nerves, embryos, etc. Therefore, we believe that aconitine may not be suitable for heart patients and pregnant women to treat related diseases. It is important to note that all of these pharmacological effects require further high-quality studies to determine the clinical efficacy of aconitine. This review aims to summarize the advances in pharmacological, pharmacokinetics, toxicity, and detoxification of aconitine in the last decade with an emphasis on its anti-tumor and anti-inflammatory activities, to provide researchers with the latest information and point out the limitations of relevant research at the current stage and the aspects that should be strengthened in future research.
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Xie Y, Mai CT, Zheng DC, He YF, Feng SL, Li YZ, Liu CX, Zhou H, Liu L. Wutou decoction ameliorates experimental rheumatoid arthritis via regulating NF-kB and Nrf2: Integrating efficacy-oriented compatibility of traditional Chinese medicine. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 85:153522. [PMID: 33799223 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2021.153522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2020] [Revised: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Thousands of years of clinical application of Wutou decoction (WTD) support its reliable efficacy and safety in treating rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, the underlying molecular mechanism remains unclear, and the synergistic involvement of assistant herbs in WTD in enhancing the sovereign herb in treating RA is unknown. PURPOSE This study aimed to investigate the efficacy-oriented compatibility of five herbs in WTD and the underlying mechanisms. METHODS The anti-arthritic effects of WTD and the compatibilities of the five herbs in WTD were studied in vivo with adjuvant-induced arthritis (AIA) rat model and in vitro with LPS-induced RAW264.7 macrophage. Network pharmacology analysis was conducted to identify the dominant pathways involved in the anti-arthritis mechanisms of WTD and how the five herbs work synergistically. The results were further verified by in vivo and in vitro experiments. RESULTS Our data revealed that the five herbs in WTD exert synergistic anti-arthritic effects on RA. Moreover, Radix Aconite (AC) is the principal anti-inflammatory component in WTD according to the extent of therapeutic effects exerted on the AIA rats. In vivo and in vitro experiments demonstrated that WTD inhibited NF-κB phosphorylation and simultaneously increased the expression of Nrf2, which were the major pathways identified by the network pharmacology analysis. The major assistant component, Herba Ephedrae (EP), evidently inhibited NF-κB mediated inflammatory response. The other assistant component, Radix Astragali (AS), considerably enhanced the expression of Nrf2 when used alone or in combination with AC. These combinations improved the anti-arthritis effects on the AIA rats better than that of AC alone. Nevertheless, WTD always achieved the best effects than any combinations both in vivo and in vitro. CONCLUSION The ministerial herbs EP and AS intensify the anti-arthritic effects of AC by regulating the NF-κB-mediated inflammatory pathway and the Nrf2-mediated anti-oxidation pathway which are the major pathways of WTD for alleviating the symptoms of RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicines, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macau (SAR)
| | - Chu-Tian Mai
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicines, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macau (SAR); Faculty of Chinese Medicines, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macau (SAR)
| | - De-Chong Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicines, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macau (SAR); Faculty of Chinese Medicines, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macau (SAR)
| | - Yu-Fei He
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicines, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macau (SAR)
| | - Sen-Lin Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicines, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macau (SAR)
| | - Ya-Zhou Li
- Tianjin Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, New Drug Assessment Co. Ltd, Tianjin, China
| | - Chang-Xiao Liu
- Tianjin Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, New Drug Assessment Co. Ltd, Tianjin, China
| | - Hua Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicines, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macau (SAR); Faculty of Chinese Medicines, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macau (SAR); Joint Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine of the Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macau (SAR).
| | - Liang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicines, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macau (SAR); Faculty of Chinese Medicines, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macau (SAR); Joint Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine of the Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macau (SAR).
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9
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Zhou W, Liu H, Qiu LZ, Yue LX, Zhang GJ, Deng HF, Ni YH, Gao Y. Cardiac efficacy and toxicity of aconitine: A new frontier for the ancient poison. Med Res Rev 2021; 41:1798-1811. [PMID: 33512023 DOI: 10.1002/med.21777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Revised: 10/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Aconitine (AC) is well-known as the main toxic ingredient and active compound of Aconitum species, of which several aconites are essential herbal medicines of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and widely applied to treat diverse diseases for their excellent anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and cardiotonic effects. However, the cardiotoxicity and neurotoxicity of AC attracted a lot of attention and made it a favorite botanic poison in history. Nowadays, the narrow therapeutic window of AC limits the clinical application of AC-containing herbal medicines; overdosing on AC always induces ventricular tachyarrhythmia and heart arrest, both of which are potentially lethal. But the underlying cardiotoxic mechanisms remained chaos. Recently, beyond its cardiotoxic effects, emerging evidence shows that low doses of AC or its metabolites could generate cardioprotective effects and are necessary to aconite's clinical efficacy. Consistent with TCM's theory that even toxic substances are powerful medicines, AC thus could not be simply identified as a toxicant or a drug. To prevent cardiotoxicity while digging the unique value of AC in cardiac pharmacology, there exists a huge urge to better know the characteristic of AC being a cardiotoxic agent or a potential heart drug. Here, this article reviews the advances of AC metabolism and focuses on the latest mechanistic findings of cardiac efficacy and toxicity of this aconite alkaloid or its metabolites. We also discuss how to prevent AC-related cardiotoxicity, as well as the issues before the development of AC-based medicines that should be solved, to provide new insight into the paradoxical nature of this ancient poison.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhou
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Hong Liu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Li-Zhen Qiu
- Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Lan-Xin Yue
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Guang-Jie Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Hui-Fang Deng
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yu-Hao Ni
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yue Gao
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
- Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
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10
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Gao J, Bao L, Zhang A. The mechanism underlying hypaconitine-mediated alleviation of pancreatitis-associated lung injury through up-regulating aquaporin-1/TNF-α. TURKISH JOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY 2020; 31:790-798. [PMID: 33361042 DOI: 10.5152/tjg.2020.19542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Acute pancreatitis-associated lung injury (APALI) is one of the most common and most dangerous form of extra-pancreatic organ damage in severe acute pancreatitis (SAP). The treatment options for SAP were limited thus far; as a result, approximately 60%-80% of patients with SAP would die within a week. Hypaconitine (HC), one of the most important active ingredients in a Mongolian traditional medicine Radix Aconiti Kusnezoffii has an excellent anti-inflammatory effect. MATERIALS AND METHODS To ascertain whether HC has a protective effect against APALI, we investigated the therapeutic effects and the underlying mechanisms in vivo and in vitro and attempted to elucidate the mechanism in detail. In this study, APALI rats and human pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells were treated with therapeutic doses of HC after establishing a model with sodium taurocholate and lipopolysaccharide, respectively. RESULTS Serum amylase and lipase activity, lung wet/dry weight ratio, lung myeloperoxidase activity, and pancreatic and lung histopathological changes showed that HC alleviated APALI in a dose-dependent way, which can be abolished by an aquaporin-1 (AQP-1) knockdown. The results of the reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction, Western blot, and immunohistochemical staining confirmed the expression of AQP-1, a kind of transmembrane protein that mainly distributed in the membranes of pulmonary cells and contributed to maintain water balance in the body by interacting with tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), is negatively associated with APALI. On the contrary, HC treatment up-regulated AQP-1 expression and down-regulated the TNF-α expression as a consequence in APALI. CONCLUSION These results suggest that HC has a good anti-inflammatory therapeutic effect on APALI with a possible underlying mechanism that affects the AQP-1/TNF-α pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiali Gao
- Department of Pharmacy, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, P. R. China
| | - Lidao Bao
- Department of Pharmacy, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, P. R. China
| | - Aiwu Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, P. R. China
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Lu B, An F, Cao L, Gao Q, Wang X, Yang Y, Liu P, Yang B, Chen T, Li XC, Chen Q, Liu J. Comparative transcriptomics characterized the distinct biosynthetic abilities of terpenoid and paeoniflorin biosynthesis in herbaceous peony strains. PeerJ 2020; 8:e8895. [PMID: 32341893 PMCID: PMC7179566 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.8895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2019] [Accepted: 03/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The herbaceous peony (Paeonia lactiflora Pall.) is a perennial flowering plant of the Paeoniaceae species that is widely cultivated for medical and ornamental uses. The monoterpene glucoside paeoniflorin and its derivatives are the active compounds of the P. lactiflora roots. However, the gene regulation pathways associated with monoterpene and paeoniflorin biosynthesis in P. lactiflora are still unclear. Here, we selected three genotypes of P. lactiflora with distinct morphologic features and chemical compositions that were a result of long-term reproductive isolation. We performed an RNA-sequencing experiment to profile the transcriptome changes of the shoots and roots. Using de novo assembly analysis, we identified 36,264 unigenes, including 521 genes responsible for encoding transcription factors. We also identified 28,925 unigenes that were differentially expressed in different organs and/or genotypes. Pathway enrichment analysis showed that the P. lactiflora unigenes were significantly overrepresented in several secondary metabolite biosynthesis pathways. We identified and profiled 33 genes responsible for encoding the enzymescontrolling the major catalytic reactions in the terpenoid backbone and in monoterpenoid biosynthesis. Our study identified the candidate genes in the terpenoid biosynthesis pathways, providing useful information for metabolic engineering of P. lactiflora intended for pharmaceutical uses and facilitating the development of strategies to improve marker-assist P. lactiflora in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baowei Lu
- Bozhou University, Bozhou, Anhui, China
| | | | - Liangjing Cao
- National Key Facility for Crop Resources and Genetic Improvement, Institute of Crop Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Qian Gao
- National Key Facility for Crop Resources and Genetic Improvement, Institute of Crop Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xuan Wang
- Department of Biological Sciences, Xian Jiaotong-Liverpool University, Suzhou, China
| | | | | | | | - Tong Chen
- National Resource Center for Chinese Materia Medica, Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xin-Chang Li
- National Key Facility for Crop Resources and Genetic Improvement, Institute of Crop Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | | | - Jun Liu
- National Key Facility for Crop Resources and Genetic Improvement, Institute of Crop Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
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12
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Asenso J, Yu J, Xiao F, Zhao M, Wang J, Wu Y, Wang C, Wei W. Methotrexate improves the anti-arthritic effects of Paeoniflorin-6'-O-benzene sulfonate by enhancing its pharmacokinetic properties in adjuvant-induced arthritis rats. Biomed Pharmacother 2019; 112:108644. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2019.108644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2018] [Revised: 01/28/2019] [Accepted: 01/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
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13
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Xiao HB, Liang L, Luo ZF, Sun ZL. Paeoniflorin regulates GALNT2-ANGPTL3-LPL pathway to attenuate dyslipidemia in mice. Eur J Pharmacol 2018; 836:122-128. [PMID: 30096295 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2018.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2018] [Revised: 08/01/2018] [Accepted: 08/03/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase 2-Angiopoietin-like protein 3-lipoprotein lipase (GALNT2-ANGPTL3-LPL) pathway may be a useful pharmacologic objective for dyslipidemia. The present study was conducted to test the effect of paeoniflorin, a monoterpene Glycoside, on dyslipidemia in mice. Fifty mice were randomly divided into five groups (n = 10): three groups of apolipoprotein E-null (ApoE-/-) mice treated with paeoniflorin (10 or 20 or 30 mg/kg/day), untreated ApoE-/- mice group, and C57BL/6J control group. Six weeks after treatment, expression of hepatic ANGPTL3, hepatic GALNT2 and adipose tissue LPL, lipid levels in the liver and blood were quantified. Treatment with paeoniflorin (10 or 20 or 30 mg/kg) obviously down-regulated expression of ANGPTL3 and up-regulated expressions of GALNT2 and LPL concomitantly with elevated plasma high-density lipoprotein cholesterol level, reduced plasma concentrations of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, total cholesterol, triglyceride, malonaldehyde, and 8-isoprostane. The present results suggest that paeoniflorin regulates GALNT2-ANGPTL3-LPL pathway to attenuate dyslipidemia in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Bo Xiao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China.
| | - Lin Liang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Zhi-Feng Luo
- Department of Basic Medicine, Xiangnan University, Chenzhou 423000, China
| | - Zhi-Liang Sun
- Hunan Engineering Research Center of Veterinary Drug, Changsha 410128, China
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Yang M, Ji X, Zuo Z. Relationships between the Toxicities of Radix Aconiti Lateralis Preparata (Fuzi) and the Toxicokinetics of Its Main Diester-Diterpenoid Alkaloids. Toxins (Basel) 2018; 10:toxins10100391. [PMID: 30261585 PMCID: PMC6215299 DOI: 10.3390/toxins10100391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2018] [Revised: 09/05/2018] [Accepted: 09/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The processed lateral root of Aconitum carmichaelii Deb (Aconiti Radix lateralis praeparata or Fuzi) is a potent traditional herbal medicine extensively used in treatment of cardiovascular diseases, rheumatism arthritis, and bronchitis in many Asian countries. Although Fuzi has promising therapeutic effects, its toxicities are frequently observed. Three main C19-diester-diterpenoid alkaloids (DDAs) are believed to be the principal toxins of the herb. Although toxicokinetic profiles of the toxic DDAs have already been examined in several studies, they have seldom been correlated with the toxicities of Fuzi. The current article aimed to investigate the relationship between the up-to-date toxicokinetic data of the toxic DDAs and the existing evidence of the toxic effects of Fuzi. Relationships between the cardiac toxicity and the plasma and heart concentration of DDAs in mice and rats were established. Based on our findings, clinical monitoring of the plasma concentrations of DDAs of Fuzi is recommended to prevent potential cardiac toxicities. Additionally, caution with respect to potential hepatic and renal toxicity induced by Fuzi should be exercised. In addition, further analyses focusing on the preclinical tissue distribution profile of DDAs and on the long-term toxicokinetic-toxicity correlation of DDAs are warranted for a better understanding of the toxic mechanisms and safer use of Fuzi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengbi Yang
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Xiaoyu Ji
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Zhong Zuo
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, China.
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15
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Liu S, Li F, Li Y, Li W, Xu J, Du H. A review of traditional and current methods used to potentially reduce toxicity of Aconitum roots in Traditional Chinese Medicine. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2017; 207:237-250. [PMID: 28666834 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2017.06.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2016] [Revised: 06/18/2017] [Accepted: 06/20/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Aconitum species are well-known for their medicinal value and high lethal toxicity in many Asian countries, notably China, India and Japan. The tubers are only used after processing in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). They can be used safely and effectively with the methods of decoction, rational compatibility, and correct processing based on traditional experiences and new technologies. However, high toxicological risks still remain due to improper preparation and usage in China and other countries. Therefore, there is a need to clarify the methods of processing and compatibility to ensure their effectiveness and minimize the potential risks. OBJECT The aim of this paper is to provide a review of traditional and current methods used to potentially reduce toxicity of Aconitum roots in TCM. MATERIALS AND METHODS The use of Aconitum has been investigated and the methods of processing and compatibility throughout history, including recent research, have been reviewed. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS Using of the methods of rational preparation, reasonable compatibility, and proper processing based on traditional experiences and new technologies, can enable Aconitum to be used safely and effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Liu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100102, China
| | - Fei Li
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100102, China
| | - Yan Li
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100102, China
| | - Weifei Li
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100102, China
| | - Jinkai Xu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100102, China
| | - Hong Du
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100102, China.
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16
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Sun S, Chen Q, Ge J, Liu X, Wang X, Zhan Q, Zhang H, Zhang G. Pharmacokinetic interaction of aconitine, liquiritin and 6-gingerol in a traditional Chinese herbal formula, Sini Decoction. Xenobiotica 2017; 48:45-52. [PMID: 28051355 DOI: 10.1080/00498254.2017.1278807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sen Sun
- Department of Pharmacy, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qingshan Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiyun Ge
- Department of Pharmacy, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiang Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xinxia Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qi Zhan
- Department of Pharmacy, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hai Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Guoqing Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
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17
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Bioactive heterocyclic alkaloids with diterpene structure isolated from traditional Chinese medicines. J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci 2016; 1026:56-66. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jchromb.2015.09.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2015] [Revised: 08/21/2015] [Accepted: 09/17/2015] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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18
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Ke LJ, Gao GZ, Shen Y, Zhou JW, Rao PF. Encapsulation of Aconitine in Self-Assembled Licorice Protein Nanoparticles Reduces the Toxicity In Vivo. NANOSCALE RESEARCH LETTERS 2015; 10:449. [PMID: 26586149 PMCID: PMC4653129 DOI: 10.1186/s11671-015-1155-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2015] [Accepted: 11/05/2015] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Many herbal medicines and compositions are clinically effective but challenged by its safety risks, i.e., aconitine (AC) from aconite species. The combined use of Radix glycyrrhizae (licorice) with Radix aconite L. effectively eliminates toxicity of the later while increasing efficacy. In this study, a boiling-stable 31-kDa protein (namely GP) was purified from licorice and self-assembled into nanoparticles (206.2 ± 2.0 nm) at pH 5.0, 25 °C. The aconitine-encapsulated GP nanoparticles (238.2 ± 1.2 nm) were prepared following the same procedure and tested for its toxicity by intraperitoneal injection on ICR mouse (n = 8). Injection of GP-AC nanoparticles and the mixed licorice-aconite decoction, respectively, caused mild recoverable toxic effects and no death, while the aconitine, particle-free GP-AC mixture and aconite decoction induced sever toxic effects and 100 % death. Encapsulation of poisonous alkaloids into self-assembled herbal protein nanoparticles contributes to toxicity attenuation of combined use of herbs, implying a prototype nanostructure and a universal principle for the safer clinical applications of herbal medicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Jing Ke
- Food Nutrition Sciences Centre, Zhejiang Gongshang University, Room 407, No. 1 Laboratory Bld., No. 149 Jiaogong Road, Xihu District, Hangzhou, 310012, Zhejiang Province, China.
| | - Guan-Zhen Gao
- Food Nutrition Sciences Centre, Zhejiang Gongshang University, Room 407, No. 1 Laboratory Bld., No. 149 Jiaogong Road, Xihu District, Hangzhou, 310012, Zhejiang Province, China.
| | - Yong Shen
- Institute of Biotechnology, Fuzhou University, No. 523 Gongye Road, Gulou District, Fuzhou, 350002, China.
| | - Jian-Wu Zhou
- Food Nutrition Sciences Centre, Zhejiang Gongshang University, Room 407, No. 1 Laboratory Bld., No. 149 Jiaogong Road, Xihu District, Hangzhou, 310012, Zhejiang Province, China.
| | - Ping-Fan Rao
- Food Nutrition Sciences Centre, Zhejiang Gongshang University, Room 407, No. 1 Laboratory Bld., No. 149 Jiaogong Road, Xihu District, Hangzhou, 310012, Zhejiang Province, China.
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19
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Zhang H, Sun S, Zhang W, Xie X, Zhu Z, Chai Y, Zhang G. Biological activities and pharmacokinetics of aconitine, benzoylaconine, and aconine after oral administration in rats. Drug Test Anal 2015; 8:839-46. [PMID: 26360128 DOI: 10.1002/dta.1858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2015] [Revised: 06/11/2015] [Accepted: 07/21/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Hai Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital; Second Military Medical University; Shanghai 200438 China
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis; Second Military Medical University School of Pharmacy; Shanghai 200433 China
| | - Sen Sun
- Department of Pharmacy, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital; Second Military Medical University; Shanghai 200438 China
| | - Wen Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital; Second Military Medical University; Shanghai 200438 China
| | - Xiangqun Xie
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences; University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy; Pittsburgh PA 15260 USA
| | - Zhenyu Zhu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis; Second Military Medical University School of Pharmacy; Shanghai 200433 China
| | - Yifeng Chai
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis; Second Military Medical University School of Pharmacy; Shanghai 200433 China
| | - Guoqing Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital; Second Military Medical University; Shanghai 200438 China
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Zhou G, Tang L, Zhou X, Wang T, Kou Z, Wang Z. A review on phytochemistry and pharmacological activities of the processed lateral root of Aconitum carmichaelii Debeaux. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2015; 160:173-93. [PMID: 25479152 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2014.11.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 202] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2014] [Revised: 11/23/2014] [Accepted: 11/23/2014] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE The processed lateral root of Aconitum carmichaelii Debeaux (Ranunculaceae), an extensively used traditional Chinese medicine, is known as Fuzi in China (Chinese: ), "bushi" in Japan, "Kyeong-Po Buja" in Korea, Chinese aconite, monkshood or Chinese wolfsbane. It has been used to treat shock resulting from acute myocardial infarction, low blood pressure, coronary heart disease, chronic heart failure, etc. AIM OF THE REVIEW The present paper aims to provide an up-to-date review at the advancements of the investigations on the ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, pharmacological effect and toxicity of Fuzi. Besides, the possible tendency and perspective for future research of this plant are discussed, as well. MATERIALS AND METHODS All available information on Fuzi was collected via electronic search (using Elsevier, PubMed, ACS, CNKI, Google Scholar, Baidu Scholar, and Web of Science), books and classic works about Chinese herb. RESULTS 122 chemical constituents, among which C19-diterpenoid alkaloids and C20-diterpenoid alkaloids are the predominant groups, have been isolated and identified from Fuzi. Fuzi with its active compounds is possessed of wide-reaching biological activities, including effects on cardiovascular system, anti-inflammation and analgesic action, anti-tumor activity, effect on the immune system, hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic effects, anti-aging effect, effect of protecting kidney and effect on energy metabolism. CONCLUSIONS Nearly all of compounds were found from the roots of the plant, so further phytochemical studies should focus more on the other parts of the plant, such as the leaves, flowers or stems. Besides, a majority of the pharmacological studies were carried out using crude and poorly characterized extracts. Thus, more bioactive components particularly cardiotonic and analgesic compounds should be identified through bioactivity-guided isolation strategies. Moreover, investigations on how to develop Fuzi׳s new clinical usage on the basis of its pharmacological effects are in requirement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guohong Zhou
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Science, No. 16, Nanxiaojie, Dongzhimennei Ave., Beijing 100700, China
| | - Liying Tang
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Science, No. 16, Nanxiaojie, Dongzhimennei Ave., Beijing 100700, China
| | - Xidan Zhou
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Science, No. 16, Nanxiaojie, Dongzhimennei Ave., Beijing 100700, China
| | - Ting Wang
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Science, No. 16, Nanxiaojie, Dongzhimennei Ave., Beijing 100700, China
| | - Zhenzhen Kou
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Science, No. 16, Nanxiaojie, Dongzhimennei Ave., Beijing 100700, China
| | - Zhuju Wang
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Science, No. 16, Nanxiaojie, Dongzhimennei Ave., Beijing 100700, China.
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Comparative pharmacokinetics of hypaconitine after oral administration of pure hypaconitine, Aconitum carmichaelii extract and Sini Decoction to rats. Molecules 2015; 20:1560-70. [PMID: 25603501 PMCID: PMC6272148 DOI: 10.3390/molecules20011560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2014] [Accepted: 01/07/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypaconitine (HC) is one of the main aconitum alkaloids in Aconitum carmichaelii (AC), which is considered to be effective on cardiovascular disease, although it also has high toxicity. Sini Decoction (SND), composed of Aconitum carmichaelii, Glycyrrhiza uralensis and Zingiber officinale, is a traditional Chinese multi-herbal formula for recuperating the depleted yang. The aim of this study was to compare the pharmacokinetics of HC in rat plasma after oral administration of HC, AC extract and SND, and investigate the effect of other two herbal ingredients on absorption, metabolism and elimination of HC. A sensitive and specific LC-MS/MS method was developed to determine HC in rat plasma. Eighteen male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned to three groups: HC, AC and SND group. Plasma concentrations of HC were determined at designated points after oral administration, and main pharmacokinetic parameters were estimated. It was found that there was obvious difference (p < 0.05) on the pharmacokinetic parameters among three groups. Compared with AC group, Tmax, Cmax, k, AUC(0-24) and AUC(0-∞) decreased in SND group, while t1/2 and MRT had been lengthened, which indicated that the ingredients in other two herbs could influence the pharmacokinetic behavior of HC.
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22
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Zhang H, Liu M, Zhang W, Chen J, Zhu Z, Cao H, Chai Y. Comparative pharmacokinetics of three monoester-diterpenoid alkaloids after oral administration ofAcontium carmichaeliextract and its compatibility with other herbal medicines in Sini Decoction to rats. Biomed Chromatogr 2014; 29:1076-83. [PMID: 25516169 DOI: 10.1002/bmc.3394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2014] [Revised: 10/18/2014] [Accepted: 10/23/2014] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hai Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital; Second Military Medical University; Shanghai 200438 China
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, School of Pharmacy; Second Military Medical University; Shanghai 200433 China
| | - Min Liu
- Drug Control Institute of Nanjing Military Area Command; Nanjing 210002 China
| | - Wen Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital; Second Military Medical University; Shanghai 200438 China
| | - Jun Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital; Second Military Medical University; Shanghai 200438 China
| | - Zhenyu Zhu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, School of Pharmacy; Second Military Medical University; Shanghai 200433 China
| | - Hong Cao
- Institute for Drug and Instrument Control of People's Liberation Army; Beijing 100071 China
| | - Yifeng Chai
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, School of Pharmacy; Second Military Medical University; Shanghai 200433 China
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Zhang H, Wu Q, Li W, Sun S, Zhang W, Zhu Z, Zhang G, Chai Y. Absorption and metabolism of three monoester-diterpenoid alkaloids in Aconitum carmichaeli after oral administration to rats by HPLC-MS. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2014; 154:645-652. [PMID: 24793215 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2014.04.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2013] [Revised: 02/10/2014] [Accepted: 04/22/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Aconitum carmichaelii (AC) is a well-known herbal medicine for its excellent pharmacological effects and toxicity. The monoester-diterpenoid alkaloids (MDAs), including benzoylmesaconine (BMC), benzoylaconine (BAC) and benzoylhyaconine (BHC), are the main active components in AC. It was found that the diester alkaloids could be transformed into monoester-diterpenoid alkaloids after being decocted. In Chinese pharmacopoeia, the MDAs are also used as phytochemical markers for the quality control of AC. Benzoylmesaconine, benzoylaconine and benzoylhyaconine are representatives of monoester-diterpenoid alkaloids. It was reported that the absolute bioavailability of MDAs was very low but there was toxicity often occurred in AC. Because most of DDAs are transformed into MDAs after decoction, we speculate that some other components may promote the bioavailability of MDAs but result in toxicity by enhancing their absorption. To demonstrate the dynamic changes of MDAs in vivo and reveal the causes of low bioavailability and toxicity, this study will explore the mechanisms of absorption and metabolism of 3 MDAs. MATERIALS AND METHODS A sensitive, accurate and specific LC-MS method was developed to determine the three MDAs in rat plasma. The pharmacokinetic parameters were estimated after orally administered 3 MDAs to the Male Sprague-Dawley rats, and the metabolism stability was calculated after incubating with rat liver microsomes, finally, the absorption characteristics of the 3 MDAs were investigated using Caco-2 transwell model. RESULTS It was found that the pharmacokinetic parameters of 3 MDAs were similar, Cmax and Tmax were very small, and t1/2 was large, which indicated 3 MDAs can be absorbed rapidly and is difficult to be metabolized or excreted. However, the low Cmax indicated that the bioavailability of 3 MDAs will be very low and their absorption may be inhibited by some transport proteins. By incubating three MDAs in rat liver microsomes, it was proved that they almost can't be metabolized in vivo. The Caco-2 transwell experiments reveal that the P-gp inhibits the absorption of MDAs. CONCLUSIONS LC-MS combined with a direct precipitation method for the simultaneous quantification of 3 MDAs in rat plasma has been developed and validated and successfully used in pharmacokinetic study of 3 MDAs. It was proved that the three components almost can't be metabolized in vivo, and P-gp inhibits the absorption of MDAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, 325 Guohe Road, Shanghai 200433, China; Department of Pharmacy, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Qiong Wu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, 325 Guohe Road, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Wuhong Li
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, 325 Guohe Road, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Sen Sun
- Department of Pharmacy, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Wen Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Zhenyu Zhu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, 325 Guohe Road, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Guoqing Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Yifeng Chai
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, 325 Guohe Road, Shanghai 200433, China.
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Gao E, Yu X, Liu T, Li H, Wang P, Wei Y, Zhao Y, Yu Z. Comparative study on effects of single and multiple oral administration of mungbean (Phaseolus radiatus L.) seed extract on the pharmacokinetics of aconitine by UHPLC-MS. Biomed Chromatogr 2014; 28:1313-9. [PMID: 24590733 DOI: 10.1002/bmc.3163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2013] [Revised: 12/19/2013] [Accepted: 01/17/2014] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The study was aimed to investigate the effects of single and multiple oral administration of mungbean (Phaseolus radiatus L.) seed extract (ME) on the pharmacokinetics of aconitine in rats. The Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into three groups (six rats each group). In group 1, rats were orally administered 500 µg/kg aconitine after receiving a single oral dose of 1 g/kg ME. In group 2, rats were orally administered with 500 µg/kg aconitine at day 7 of treatment with 1 g/kg/day ME. In group 3, rats were orally administered with 500 µg/kg aconitine. Blood samples were collected at different time points (0.083, 0.25, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 4.0, 6.0, 8.0 and 10.0 h). The concentration of aconitine in rats plasma was determined by a fully validated ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry method. The results showed that single and multiple oral co-administration of ME significantly altered the pharmacokinetic parameters of aconitine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enze Gao
- School of Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China
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Zhang C, Peng F, Liu W, Wan J, Wan C, Xu H, Lam CW, Yang X. Nanostructured lipid carriers as a novel oral delivery system for triptolide: induced changes in pharmacokinetics profile associated with reduced toxicity in male rats. Int J Nanomedicine 2014; 9:1049-63. [PMID: 24591827 PMCID: PMC3934590 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s55144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
After oral administration in rodents, triptolide (TP), a diterpenoid triepoxide compound, active as anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressive, anti-fertility, anti-cystogenesis, and anticancer agent, is rapidly absorbed into the blood circulation (from 5.0 to 19.5 minutes after dosing, depending on the rodent species) followed by a short elimination half-life (from about 20 minutes to less than 1 hour). Such significant and rapid fluctuations of TP in plasma likely contribute to its toxicity, which is characterized by injury to hepatic, renal, digestive, reproductive, and hematological systems. With the aim of prolonging drug release and improving its safety, TP-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers (TP-NLCs), composed of Compritol® 888 ATO (solid lipid) and Capryol™ 90 (liquid lipid), were developed using a microemulsion technique. The formulated TP-NLCs were also characterized and in vitro release was evaluated using the dialysis bag diffusion technique. In addition, the pharmacokinetics and toxicology profiles of TP-NLCs were compared to free TP and TP-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (TP-SLNs; containing Compritol 888 ATO only). Results demonstrate that TP-NLCs had mean particle size of 231.8 nm, increased drug encapsulation with a 71.6% efficiency, and stable drug incorporation for over 1-month. TP-NLCs manifested a better in vitro sustained-release pattern compared to TP-SLNs. Furthermore, TP-NLCs prolonged mean residence time (MRT)0–t (P<0.001, P<0.001), delayed Tmax (P<0.01, P<0.05) and decreased Cmax (P<0.01, P<0.05) compared to free TP and TP-SLNs, respectively, which was associated with reduced subacute toxicity in male rats. In conclusion, our data suggest that TP-NLCs are superior to TP-SLNs and could be a promising oral delivery system for a safer use of TP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cong Zhang
- National Engineering Research Center for Nanomedicine, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan
| | - Fan Peng
- National Engineering Research Center for Nanomedicine, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan
| | - Wei Liu
- National Engineering Research Center for Nanomedicine, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan
| | - Jiangling Wan
- National Engineering Research Center for Nanomedicine, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan
| | - Chunxi Wan
- National Engineering Research Center for Nanomedicine, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan
| | - Huibi Xu
- National Engineering Research Center for Nanomedicine, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan ; State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau Institute for Applied Research in Medicine and Health, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, People's Republic of China
| | - Christopher Waikei Lam
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau Institute for Applied Research in Medicine and Health, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiangliang Yang
- National Engineering Research Center for Nanomedicine, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan ; State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau Institute for Applied Research in Medicine and Health, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, People's Republic of China
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Liu J, Li Q, Yin Y, Liu R, Xu H, Bi K. Ultra-fast LC-ESI-MS/MS method for the simultaneous determination of six highly toxic Aconitum
alkaloids from Aconiti kusnezoffii radix in rat plasma and its application to a pharmacokinetic study. J Sep Sci 2014; 37:171-8. [DOI: 10.1002/jssc.201300775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2013] [Revised: 10/22/2013] [Accepted: 10/23/2013] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Liu
- School of Chinese Material Medica; Shenyang Pharmaceutical University; Shenyang China
- National and Local United Engineering Laboratory for Key Technology of Chinese Material Medica Quality Control; Shenyang Pharmaceutical University; Shenyang China
| | - Qing Li
- Schools of Pharmacy; Shenyang Pharmaceutical University; Shenyang China
- National and Local United Engineering Laboratory for Key Technology of Chinese Material Medica Quality Control; Shenyang Pharmaceutical University; Shenyang China
| | - Yidi Yin
- School of Chinese Material Medica; Shenyang Pharmaceutical University; Shenyang China
- National and Local United Engineering Laboratory for Key Technology of Chinese Material Medica Quality Control; Shenyang Pharmaceutical University; Shenyang China
| | - Ran Liu
- Schools of Pharmacy; Shenyang Pharmaceutical University; Shenyang China
- National and Local United Engineering Laboratory for Key Technology of Chinese Material Medica Quality Control; Shenyang Pharmaceutical University; Shenyang China
| | - Huarong Xu
- Schools of Pharmacy; Shenyang Pharmaceutical University; Shenyang China
- National and Local United Engineering Laboratory for Key Technology of Chinese Material Medica Quality Control; Shenyang Pharmaceutical University; Shenyang China
| | - Kaishun Bi
- Schools of Pharmacy; Shenyang Pharmaceutical University; Shenyang China
- National and Local United Engineering Laboratory for Key Technology of Chinese Material Medica Quality Control; Shenyang Pharmaceutical University; Shenyang China
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27
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Yang C, Zhang T, Li Z, Xu L, Liu F, Ruan J, Liu K, Zhang Z. P-glycoprotein is responsible for the poor intestinal absorption and low toxicity of oral aconitine: In vitro, in situ, in vivo and in silico studies. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2013; 273:561-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2013.09.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2013] [Revised: 09/18/2013] [Accepted: 09/29/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Peter K, Schinnerl J, Felsinger S, Brecker L, Bauer R, Breiteneder H, Xu R, Ma Y. A novel concept for detoxification: complexation between aconitine and liquiritin in a Chinese herbal formula ('Sini Tang'). JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2013; 149:562-9. [PMID: 23892202 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2013.07.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2013] [Revised: 07/15/2013] [Accepted: 07/16/2013] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Sini Tang (SNT) is a traditional Chinese herbal formulation consisting of three different herbs: Aconitum carmichaelii (Fuzi), Zingiber officinale (Ganjiang), and Glycyrrhiza uralensis (Gancao). For this study, we modified this mixture by adding the bark of Cinnamomum cassia (Rougui, ). Aconitum carmichaelii contains aconitine and its derivatives, all of which are highly toxic alkaloids. These compounds are commonly detoxified with pyrolytic and hydrolytic pretreatments, such as Heishunpian, which requires repeated soaking in salt water, boiling until the roots turn black, and drying in the oven. We now demonstrate that Glycyrrhiza uralensis, which is often used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for detoxification, reduces the concentration of free aconitine in decoctions by forming a complex between liquiritin and aconitine. MATERIALS AND METHODS Aqueous extracts of SNT, each individual herb or herbal mixture, and methanolic extracts of individual herbs were tested for free aconitine by HPLC coupled with a diode array detector. A detected complex was investigated by NMR and UV/vis spectroscopy. The continuous variations method and (1)H-NMR titrations provided the complex stoichiometry and binding constant. A 2D-ROESY experiment was performed to obtain the structural details of the formed complex. RESULTS A fast and simple HPLC method was developed to determine the amounts of aconitine and its derivatives found in herbal extracts. The Heishunpian pretreatment led to nearly complete pyrolysis and hydrolysis of the toxic compounds. However, in some batches, considerable amounts of aconitine remained. The addition of Glycyrrhiza uralensis to Aconitum carmichaelii, or liquiritin to free aconitine, led to a complexation with aconitine. The complex possessed a 1:1 stoichiometry and a binding constant of ca. 3000 L/mol to 4000 L/mol in mixtures of aqueous methanol. CONCLUSIONS A new HPLC based method allows the concentration of toxic aconitine and other diester diterpene alkaloids in herbal extracts to be rapidly determined. This method provides a starting point for the development of routine quality control procedures. The complexation of free aconitine by adding an excess of Glycyrrhiza uralensis or free liquiritin to SNT formulations will make these formulations safer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karoline Peter
- Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Peng WW, Li W, Li JS, Cui XB, Zhang YX, Yang GM, Wen HM, Cai BC. The effects of Rhizoma Zingiberis on pharmacokinetics of six Aconitum alkaloids in herb couple of Radix Aconiti Lateralis-Rhizoma Zingiberis. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2013; 148:579-86. [PMID: 23707213 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2013.04.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2013] [Revised: 04/27/2013] [Accepted: 04/28/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Radix Aconiti Lateralis (Fuzi in Chinese, derived from the lateral roots of Aconitum Carmichaeli Debx.) is widely used for the treatment of heart failure, internal cold, arthralgia, diarrhea and edema for thousands of years. It was usually prescribed in combination with Rhizoma Zingiberis (Ganjiang in Chinese, derived from the dry rhizome of Zingiber officinale Rosc.) to decrease toxicity and increase efficacy. AIM OF THE STUDY In order to investigate the influence of Rhizoma Zingiberis on pharmacokinetics of six Aconitum alkaloids, i.e. aconitine (AC), hypaconitine (HA), mesaconitine (MA), benzoylaconine (BAC), benzoylhypaconine (BHA) and benzoylmesaconine (BMA), in Fuzi-Ganjiang herb couple, the comparative pharmacokinetics of six Aconitum alkaloids after oral administration of Fuzi and Fuzi-Ganjiang aqueous extract was carried out. MATERIALS AND METHODS A sensitive, specific and rapid LC-MS/MS method was developed to determine the six analytes in plasma. Then the rats were randomly divided into two groups and orally administered with Fuzi and Fuzi-Ganjiang aqueous extract. At designated time points after oral administration, the concentrations of the six Aconitum alkaloids in rat plasma were determined, and main pharmacokinetic parameters were investigated using 3P97 (Practical Pharmacokinetics Program Version 1.0). RESULTS Comparing with Fuzi group, both T1/2 and AUC0-t of AC and HA decreased (P<0.05), while T1/2, AUC0-t and Cmax of BAC, BHA increased (P<0.05) in Fuzi-Ganjiang group, which indicated that Ganjiang could promote the elimination of AC and HA and enhance the absorption of BAC, BHA and BMA. CONCLUSION The differences of pharmacokinetics of Aconitum alkaloids in rat plasma could support those of pharmacologics and toxicity in previous reports between Fuzi and Fuzi-Ganjiang herb couple. The results might be helpful in explaining the mechanism of combination of Fuzi-Ganjiang to decrease toxicity and increase efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Wen Peng
- College of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 138 Xianlin Road, Nanjing 210023, PR China
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Transcellular transport of aconitine across human intestinal Caco-2 cells. Food Chem Toxicol 2013; 57:195-200. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2013.03.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2012] [Revised: 03/14/2013] [Accepted: 03/18/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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31
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Du J, Lu X, Long Z, Zhang Z, Zhu X, Yang Y, Xu J. In vitro and in vivo anticancer activity of aconitine on melanoma cell line B16. Molecules 2013; 18:757-67. [PMID: 23299553 PMCID: PMC6270132 DOI: 10.3390/molecules18010757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2012] [Revised: 11/29/2012] [Accepted: 01/05/2013] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The anti-tumor effect of aconitine in melanoma cell line B16 has been studied in this paper. We found that B16 cells showed significantly reduced growth rates and increased apoptotic effects in the presence of aconitine. Furthermore, aconitine inhibited the PI3K/AKT and MAPK/ERK1/2 signaling pathways, thus regulating the levels of protein and mRNA of PCNA and apoptotic related signaling molecules. Above all, we found that aconitine showed an anti-melanoma effect in suppressing tumor growth in vivo. In conclusion, we show that aconitine may be a useful anticancer drug in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Du
- Dermatology Department, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Xiaonian Lu
- Dermatology Department, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Ziwen Long
- Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Zhen Zhang
- Dermatology Department, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Xiaohua Zhu
- Dermatology Department, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Yongsheng Yang
- Dermatology Department, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Jinhua Xu
- Dermatology Department, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed; E-Mail: ; Tel./Fax: +86-21-5288-7776
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Leung EL, Cao ZW, Jiang ZH, Zhou H, Liu L. Network-based drug discovery by integrating systems biology and computational technologies. Brief Bioinform 2012; 14:491-505. [PMID: 22877768 PMCID: PMC3713711 DOI: 10.1093/bib/bbs043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Network-based intervention has been a trend of curing systemic diseases, but it relies on regimen optimization and valid multi-target actions of the drugs. The complex multi-component nature of medicinal herbs may serve as valuable resources for network-based multi-target drug discovery due to its potential treatment effects by synergy. Recently, robustness of multiple systems biology platforms shows powerful to uncover molecular mechanisms and connections between the drugs and their targeting dynamic network. However, optimization methods of drug combination are insufficient, owning to lacking of tighter integration across multiple '-omics' databases. The newly developed algorithm- or network-based computational models can tightly integrate '-omics' databases and optimize combinational regimens of drug development, which encourage using medicinal herbs to develop into new wave of network-based multi-target drugs. However, challenges on further integration across the databases of medicinal herbs with multiple system biology platforms for multi-target drug optimization remain to the uncertain reliability of individual data sets, width and depth and degree of standardization of herbal medicine. Standardization of the methodology and terminology of multiple system biology and herbal database would facilitate the integration. Enhance public accessible databases and the number of research using system biology platform on herbal medicine would be helpful. Further integration across various '-omics' platforms and computational tools would accelerate development of network-based drug discovery and network medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elaine L Leung
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau Institute for Applied Research in Medicine and Health, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, China
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