Dynamic analysis of the endogenous metabolites in depressed patients treated with TCM formula Xiaoyaosan using urinary (1)H NMR-based metabolomics

Integration of network pharmacology and experimental verification to reveal the active components and molecular mechanism of modified Danzhi Xiaoyao San in the treatment of depression

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Modified Danzhi Xiaoyao San (MDXS) is an effective clinical prescription for depression in China, which was deprived of Danzhi Xiaoyao San in the Ming Dynasty. MDSX has significant implications for the development of new antidepressants, but its pharmacological mechanism has been rarely studied.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To reveal the active components and molecular mechanism of MDXS in treating depression through network pharmacology and experimental verification in vivo and in vitro.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS was used to identify the chemical components in the MDXS freeze-dried powder, drug-containing serum, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Based on the analysis of prototype components in the CSF, the major constituents, potential therapeutic targets and possible pharmacological mechanisms of MDXS in treating depression were investigated using network pharmacological and molecular docking. Then corticosterone (CORT)-induced mice model of depression was established to investigate the antidepressant effects of MDXS. HT22 cells were cultured to verify the neuroprotective effects and core targets of the active components.

RESULTS

There were 81 compounds in MDXS freeze-dried powder, 36 prototype components in serum, and 13 prototype components in CSF were identified, respectively. Network pharmacology analysis showed that these 13 prototype components in the CSF shared 190 common targets with depression, which were mainly enriched in MAPK and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways. PPI analysis suggested that AKT1 and MAPK1 (ERK1/2) were the core targets. Molecular docking revealed that azelaic acid (AA), senkyunolide A (SA), atractylenolide III (ATIII), and tokinolide B (TB) had the highest binding energy with AKT1 and MAPK1. Animal experiments verified that MDXS could reverse CORT-induced depression-like behaviors, improve synaptic plasticity, alleviate neuronal injury in hippocampal CA3 regions, and up-regulate the protein expression of p-ERK1/2 and p-AKT. In HT22 cells, azelaic acid, senkyunolide A, and atractylenolide III significantly protected the cell injury caused by CORT, and up-regulated the protein levels of p-ERK1/2 and p-AKT.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggested that MDXS may exert antidepressant effects partially through azelaic acid, senkyunolide A, and atractylenolide III targeting ERK1/2 and AKT.

Bupleurum in Treatment of Depression Disorder: A Comprehensive Review

The incidence of depression has been steadily rising in recent years, making it one of the most prevalent mental illnesses. As the pursuit of novel antidepressant drugs captivates the pharmaceutical field, the therapeutic efficacy of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has been widely explored. Chaihu (Bupleurum) has been traditionally used for liver conditions such as hepatitis, liver inflammation, liver fibrosis, and liver cancer. It is believed to have hepatoprotective effects, promoting liver cell regeneration and protecting against liver damage. In addition, Bupleurum has also been used as a Jie Yu (depression-relieving) medicine in China, Japan, Republic of Korea, and other Asian countries for centuries. This review article aims to summarize the research conducted on the antidepressant properties and mechanisms of Bupleurum, as well as discuss the potential of TCM formulas containing Bupleurum. This review highlights various antidepressant ingredients isolated from Bupleurum, including saikosaponin A, saikosaponin D, rutin, puerarin, and quercetin, each with distinct mechanisms of action. Additionally, Chinese herb prescriptions and extracts containing Bupleurum, such as Chaihu Shugansan, Xiaoyaosan, and Sinisan, are also included due to their demonstrated antidepressant effects. This review reveals that these Bupleurum compounds exhibit antidepressant effects through the regulation of neurotransmitter mechanisms (such as 5-HT and DA), the NMDA (N-methyl-D-aspartate) system, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and other intracellular signaling pathways. Collectively, this comprehensive review provides insights into the multiple applications of Bupleurum in the treatment of depression and highlights its potential as an alternative or complementary approach to traditional therapies. However, it is essential to consider the potential adverse effects and clinical restrictions of Bupleurum despite its promising potential. Further research is needed to elucidate its specific mechanisms of action and evaluate its effectiveness in human subjects.

Stable Isotope Tracer Technique and Network Pharmacology to Reveal Antidepressant Targets and Active Components of Xiaoyao San

In recent years, the research of mitochondrial dysfunction in depression has drawn the focus of researchers. Our research group previously found that Xiaoyao San (XYS) has improved the mitochondrial structure and the blocked tricarboxylic acid cycle (TCA cycle) in the hippocampal tissue of chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) rats. However, the specific targets and active components of XYS remain unclear, and the potential to improve hippocampal mitochondrial TCA cycle disorder was also unexplored. In this research, a strategy to combine stable isotope-resolved metabolomics (SIRM), network pharmacology and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was used to explore the potential, targets of action, and active components of XYS to improve hippocampal mitochondrial TCA cycle disorder of CUMS rats. The results of TEM showed that the ultrastructure of hippocampal mitochondria could be improved by XYS. A combination of SIRM and molecular docking showed that pyruvate carboxylase (PC), ATP citrate lyase (ACLK), glutamate dehydrogenase (GLDH), glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (GOT) and pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) were targets of XYS to improve TCA cycle disorder. In addition, troxerutin was found to be the most potential active component of XYS to improve TCA cycle disorder. The above research results can provide new insights for the development of antidepressant drugs.

Bushen Tongluo formula ameliorated testosterone propionate-induced benign prostatic hyperplasia in rats

BACKGROUND

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common disease in older men worldwide. However, there is currently no effective treatment for BPH. Bushen Tongluo Formula (Kidney-supplementing and collaterals-unblocking formula [KCF]) is a traditional Chinese medicine formula commonly used to ameliorate the symptoms of BPH, although the specific molecular mechanisms remain unclear.

PURPOSE

We aimed to discover the effects and potential mechanisms of KCF against BPH.

METHODS

Sixty male SD rats were randomly assigned to one of six group (n = 10): control, low-dosage KCF, medium-dosage KCF, high-dosage KCF, BPH model, and finasteride. A rat model of BPH was established by surgical castration followed by subcutaneous injection of testosterone propionate (TP) for 4 weeks. After treatment, the prostate index, histopathological staining, serum levels of estradiol (E2) and dihydrotestosterone (DHT), protein/mRNA levels of E-cadherin, TGF-β1, caspase-3, Ki67, and vimentin, abundances of serum metabolites, and the proliferation, cell cycle, and apoptosis of BPH-1 cells were documented.

RESULTS

KCF treatment for 4 weeks reduced the prostate volume and prostate index, alleviated histopathological changes to the prostate of rats with TP-induced BPH, decreased serum levels of E2 and DHT, reduced protein/mRNA levels of TGF-β1 and vimentin, and increased E-cadherin levels. Moreover, KCF-spiked serum inhibited proliferation of BPH-1 cells, blocked the cell cycle, and promoted apoptosis. KCF was also found to regulate the contents of three metabolites (D-maltose, citric acid, and fumaric acid).

CONCLUSION

The present study was the first to report that KCF exhibited therapeutic effects against BPH by regulating energy metabolism and inhibiting epithelial-mesenchymal transition in prostate tissues. Hence, KCF presents a viable treatment option for BPH.

Urinary 1H NMR Metabolomic Analysis of Prenatal Maternal Stress Due to a Natural Disaster Reveals Metabolic Risk Factors for Non-Communicable Diseases: The QF2011 Queensland Flood Study

Prenatal stress alters fetal programming, potentially predisposing the ensuing offspring to long-term adverse health outcomes. To gain insight into environmental influences on fetal development, this QF2011 study evaluated the urinary metabolomes of 4-year-old children (n = 89) who were exposed to the 2011 Queensland flood in utero. Proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy was used to analyze urinary metabolic fingerprints based on maternal levels of objective hardship and subjective distress resulting from the natural disaster. In both males and females, differences were observed between high and low levels of maternal objective hardship and maternal subjective distress groups. Greater prenatal stress exposure was associated with alterations in metabolites associated with protein synthesis, energy metabolism, and carbohydrate metabolism. These alterations suggest profound changes in oxidative and antioxidative pathways that may indicate a higher risk for chronic non-communicable diseases such obesity, insulin resistance, and diabetes, as well as mental illnesses, including depression and schizophrenia. Thus, prenatal stress-associated metabolic biomarkers may provide early predictors of lifetime health trajectories, and potentially serve as prognostic markers for therapeutic strategies in mitigating adverse health outcomes.

Gut microbiota: A new target for traditional Chinese medicine in the treatment of depression

ETHNIC PHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The causes of depression are complex. Many factors are involved in its pathogenesis, including the individual's biological and social environment. Although numerous studies have reported that the gut microbiota plays a significant role in depression, drugs that regulate the gut microbiota to treat depression have not yet been comprehensively reviewed. At the same time, more and more attention has been paid to the characteristics of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in improving depression by regulating gut microbiota. In ancient times, fecal microbiota transplantation was recorded in TCM for the treatment of severe diseases. There are also records in Chinese ancient books about the use of TCM to adjust gut microbiota to treat diseases, which has opened up a unique research field in TCM. Therefore, this article focuses on the pharmacological effects, targets, and mechanisms of TCM in improving depression by mediating the influence of gut microbiota.

AIM OF THIS REVIEW

To summarize the role the gut microbiota plays in depression, highlight potential regulatory targets, and elucidate the anti-depression mechanisms of TCMs through regulation of the gut microbiota.

METHODS

A systematic review of 256 clinical trials and pharmaceutical studies published until June 2022 was conducted in eight electronic databases (Web of Science, PubMed, SciFinder, Research Gate, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, Scopus, and China Knowledge Infrastructure), according to the implemented PRISMA criteria, using the search terms "traditional Chinese medicine," "depression," and "gut microbiota."

RESULTS

Numerous studies reported the effects of different gut bacteria on depression and that antidepressants work through the gut microbiota. TCM preparations based on compound Chinese medicine, the Chinese Materia Medica, and major bioactive components exerted antidepressant-like effects by improving levels of neurotransmitters, short-chain fatty acids, brain-derived neurotrophic factor, kynurenine, and cytokines via regulation of the gut microbiota.

CONCLUSION

This review summarized the anti-depression effects of TCM on the gut microbiota, providing evidence that TCMs are safe and effective in the treatment of depression and may provide a new therapeutic approach.

Analysis of 12 Chemical Compounds And Pattern Recognition of Different Parts of Angelicae Sinensis Radix by Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry And Chemometrics Methods

To evaluate the quality and quantify bioactive constituents in different parts of Angelicae Sinensis Radix, an efficient, high-speed, high-sensitivity high-performance liquid chromatography and triple quadrupole mass spectrometry method was used for simultaneous detection of 12 chemical compounds including L-tryptophan, chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, ferulic acid, isoferulic acid, senkyunolide I, guanosine, proline, L-glutamine, γ-aminobutyric acid, glutamic acid, and arginine in 52 batches of Angelicae Sinensis Radix from Gansu, China. The established methods were validated by good linearity (R2≥0.9921), limits of detection (0.0001-0.0156 μg/mL), limits of quantitation (0.0006-0.0781 μg/mL), stability (RSD≤7.77%), repeatability (RSD≤6.79%), intra- and interday precisions (RSD≤6.00% and RSD≤6.39%, respectively) and recovery (90.90-107.16%). According to the quantitative results, the contents of the hydrophilic compounds were higher in the head, while the medium and weak polar components were mainly concentrated in the tail. Finally, principal component analysis results revealed that Angelicae Sinensis Radix could be divided into different medicinal sites based on polar components such as amino acids, nucleosides. The combination of liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry and principal component analysis is a simple and reliable method for pattern recognition and quality evaluation of Angelicae Sinensis Radix.

A unique insight for Xiaoyao San exerts antidepressant effects by modulating hippocampal glucose catabolism using stable isotope-resolved metabolomics

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) theory, depression is an emotional disease, which is thought to be related to stagnation of liver qi and dysfunction of the spleen in transport. Xiaoyao San (XYS) is considered to have the effects of soothing liver-qi stagnation and invigorating the spleen. The spleen has the function to transport and transform nutrients. The liver has also termed the center of energy metabolism in the body. Therefore, exploring the antidepressant effects of XYS from the perspective of energy metabolism may reveal new findings.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Glucose catabolism is an important part of energy metabolism. In recent years, several researchers have found that XYS can exert antidepressant effects by modulating abnormalities in glucose catabolism-related metabolites. The previous research of our research group found that the hippocampus glucose catabolism was disordered in depression. However, the antidepressant potential of XYS through modulating the disorders of hippocampal glucose catabolism and the specific metabolic pathways and targets of XYS action were still unknown. The aim of this study was to address the above scientific questions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this research, the CUMS (chronic unpredictable mild stress) model was used as the animal model of depression. The antidepressant effect of XYS was evaluated by behavioral indicators. The specific pathways and targets of XYS modulating the disorders of glucose catabolism in the hippocampus of CUMS rats were obtained by stable isotope-resolved metabolomics. Further, the isotope tracing results were also verified by molecular biology and electron transmission electron microscopy.

RESULTS

The results demonstrated that XYS pretreatment could significantly improve the depressive symptoms induced by CUMS. More importantly, it was found that XYS could modulate the disorders of glucose catabolism in the hippocampus of CUMS rats. Stable isotope-resolved metabolomics and enzyme activity tests showed that Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), Pyruvate carboxylase (PC), and Pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) were targets of XYS for modulating the disorders of glucose catabolism in the hippocampus of CUMS rats. The Succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) and mitochondrial respiratory chain complex V (MRCC-Ⅴ) were targets of XYS to improve abnormal mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation in the hippocampus of CUMS rats. XYS was also found to have the ability to improve the structural damage of mitochondria and nuclei in the hippocampal caused by CUMS.

CONCLUSIONS

This study was to explore the antidepressant effect of XYS from the perspective of glucose catabolism based on a strategy combining stable isotope tracing, molecular biology techniques, and transmission electron microscopy. We not only obtained the specific pathways and targets of XYS to improve the disorders of glucose catabolism in the hippocampus of CUMS rats, but also revealed the specific targets of the pathways of XYS compared with VLF.

Network pharmacology and molecular docking analysis on the mechanism of Baihe Zhimu decoction in the treatment of postpartum depression

Baihe Zhimu decoction (BZD) has significant antidepressant properties and is widely used to treat mental diseases. However, the multitarget mechanism of BZD in postpartum depression (PPD) remains to be elucidated. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore the molecular mechanisms of BDZ in treating PPD using network pharmacology and molecular docking. Active components and their target proteins were screened from the traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform (TCMSP). The PPD-related targets were obtained from the OMIM, CTD, and GeneCards databases. After overlap, the targets of BZD against PPD were collected. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) network and core target analyses were conducted using the STRING network platform and Cytoscape software. Moreover, molecular docking methods were used to confirm the high affinity between BZD and targets. Finally, the DAVID online tool was used to perform gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis of overlapping targets. The TCMSP database showed that BZD contained 23 active ingredients in PPD. KEGG analysis showed that overlapping genes were mainly enriched in HIF-1, dopaminergic synapses, estrogen, and serotonergic synaptic signalling pathways. Combining the PPI network and KEGG enrichment analysis, we found that ESR1, MAOA, NR3C1, VEGFA, and mTOR were the key targets of PPD. In addition, molecular docking confirmed the high affinity between BZD and the PPD target. Verified by a network pharmacology approach based on data mining and molecular docking methods, the multi-target drug BZD may serve as a promising therapeutic candidate for PPD, but further in vivo/in vitro experiments are needed.

Novel targets for ameliorating energy metabolism disorders in depression through stable isotope-resolved metabolomics

The severe harm of depression to human health and life has attracted global attention, but the exact mechanism is not yet known due to the complicated pathogenesis. The existing antidepressants are far from ideal, indicating it is urgently needed to seek safe and effective drugs from a unique perspective. Based on the hypothesis of "mitochondrial dysfunction" proposed recently, we attempt to focus on the substrates supply of energy metabolism. We applied stable isotope-resolved metabolomics, and revealed that significantly decreased TCA cycle and abnormally increased gluconeogenesis pathway in CUMS rats. Pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) and pyruvate carboxylase (PC) maybe the key metabolic enzymes. This metabolic reprogramming was confirmed through ELISA assays and Western blot analysis. To explore the causes of substrates supply disorder in depression, we conducted the mitochondrial structure-function evaluation. Interestingly, the levels of the mitochondrial pyruvate carrier (MPC) decreased significantly, which is essential for the entry of pyruvic acid into the TCA cycle. Together, MPC, PDH and PC are expected to become potential novel therapeutic targets for treating depressive disorders. This research provides a unique insight for re-cognizing the pathological mechanisms of depression, the novel targets for development of ideal antidepressants, as well as a paradigm for deciphering abnormal metabolic pathways in other metabolic diseases.

Emerging application of metabolomics on Chinese herbal medicine for depressive disorder

Depressive disorder is a kind of emotional disorder that is mainly manifested with spontaneous and persistent low mood. Its etiology is complex and still not fully understood. Metabolomics, an important part of system biology characterized by its integrity and systematicness, analyzes endogenous metabolites of small molecules in vivo and examines the metabolic status of the organism. It is widely used in the field of disease research for its unique advantage in the disease molecular marker discovering Due to fewer adverse reactions and high safety, Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) has great advantages in the treatment of chronic diseases including depression. Metabolomics has been gradually applied to the efficacy evaluation of CHM in treatment of depression and the metabolomics analysis exhibits a systemic metabolic shift in amino acids (such as alanine, glutamic acid, valine, etc.), organic acids (lactic acid, citric acid, stearic acid, palmitic acid, etc.), and sugars, amines, etc. These differential metabolites are mainly involved in energy metabolism, amino acid metabolism, lipid metabolism, etc. In this review, we have exemplified the study of CHM in animals or clinics on the depression, and revealed that CHM treatment has significantly changed the metabolic disorders associated with depression, promoting metabolic network reorganization through restoring of key metabolites, and metabolic pathways, which may be the main mechanism basis of CHM's treatment on depression. Besides, we further envisioned the future application of metabolomics in the study of CHM treatment of depression.

Stable Isotope-Resolved Metabolomics Reveals the Abnormal Brain Glucose Catabolism in Depression Based on Chronic Unpredictable Mild Stress Rats

The severe harm of depression to human life has attracted great attention to neurologists, but its pathogenesis is extremely complicated and has not yet been fully elaborated. Here, we provided a new strategy for revealing the specific pathways of abnormal brain glucose catabolism in depression, based on the supply of energy substrates and the evaluation of the mitochondrial structure and function. By using stable isotope-resolved metabolomics, we discovered that the tricarboxylic acid cycle (TCA cycle) is blocked and gluconeogenesis is abnormally activated in chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) rats. In addition, our results showed an interesting phenomenon that the brain attempted to activate all possible metabolic enzymes in energy-producing pathways, but CUMS rats still exhibited a low TCA cycle activity due to impaired mitochondria. Depression caused the mitochondrial structure and function to be impaired and then led to abnormal brain glucose catabolism. The combination of the stable isotope-resolved metabolomics and mitochondrial structure and function analysis can accurately clarify the mechanism of depression. The mitochondrial pyruvate carrier and acetyl-CoA may be the key targets for depression treatment. The strategy provides a unique insight for exploring the mechanism of depression, the discovery of new targets, and the development of ideal novel antidepressants. Data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD025548.

Hepatic metabolomics of the compatibility effect of Xiaoyaosan on CUMS-induced depression based on the TCM theory of "Treating Diseases via Regulating the Liver's Function"

This study aimed to demonstrate the scientific connotations and compatibility effects of Xiaoyaosan (XYS) based on the theory of "Treating Diseases via Regulating the Liver's Function" by hepatic metabolomics. XYS was divided into two efficacy groups, i.e. the Shugan (SG) and the Jianpi (JP) groups, according to the strategy of "Efficacy Compositions". The chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) depression model was constructed. A ¹H NMR-based hepatic metabolomics approach coupled with multivariate data (MVD) analysis was performed. Meanwhile, relative distance (RD) and Efficacy Index (EI) were calculated. XYS and its efficacy groups significantly reversed the abnormality of behavior and hepatic metabolomics of depression rats, but to different degrees. The results of ethology and metabolomics showed the same order, i.e. XYS > JP > SG. Two metabolites, i.e. tyrosine and malate, were regulated by all the treatment groups. Four metabolites were significantly regulated only by XYS group. Of note, the results showed the two efficacy groups of XYS exhibited synergistic anti-depression effects, and glutamate, malate and taurine could be the key hepatic metabolites for these synergistic effects. The current study not only complements and consummates the mechanisms of depression and the anti-depression effects of XYS from the perspective of hepatic metabolomics, but also lays a solid foundation for comprehensively and deeply understanding the compatibility effects of XYS against depression, especially from the points of view of compatibility in Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) theory and synergism in modern medicine theory.

Assessment of Phytochemicals and Herbal Formula for the Treatment of Depression through Metabolomics

Depression is a widespread and persistent psychiatric disease. Due to various side effects and no curative treatments of conventional antidepressant drugs, botanical medicines have attracted considerable attention as a complementary and alternative approach. The pathogenesis of depression is quite complicated and unclear. Metabolomics is a promising new technique for the discovery of novel biomarkers for exploring the potential mechanisms of diverse diseases and assessing the therapeutic effects of drugs. In this article, we systematically reviewed the study of botanical medicine for the treatment of depression using metabolomics over a period from 2010 to 2019. Additionally, we summarized the potential biomarkers and metabolic pathways associated with herbal medicine treatment for depression. Through a comprehensive evaluation of herbal medicine as novel antidepressants and understanding of their pharmacomechanisms, a new perspective on expanding the application of botanical medicines for the treatment of depression is provided.

Targeting the dysfunction of glutamate receptors for the development of novel antidepressants

Increasing evidence indicates that dysfunction of glutamate receptors is involved in the pathophysiology of major depressive disorder (MDD). Although accumulating efforts have been made to elucidate the applications and mechanisms underlying antidepressant-like effects of ketamine, a non-selective antagonist of N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDAR), the role of specific glutamate receptor subunit in regulating depression is not completely clear. The current review aims to discuss the relationships between glutamate receptor subunits and depressive-like behaviors. Research literatures were searched from inception to July 2020. We summarized the alterations of glutamate receptor subunits in patients with MDD and animal models of depression. Animal behaviors in response to dysfunction of glutamate receptor subunits were also surveyed. To fully understand mechanisms underlying antidepressant-like effects of modulators targeting glutamate receptors, we discussed effects of each glutamate receptor subunit on serotonin system, synaptic plasticity, neurogenesis and neuroinflammation. Finally, we collected most recent clinical applications of glutamate receptor modulators and pointed out the limitations of these candidates in the treatment of MDD.

Auto-hydrolysis of red clover as "green" approach to (iso)flavonoid enriched products

Optimal parameters for the auto-hydrolysis of (iso)flavone glycosides to aglycones in ground Trifolium pratense L. plant material were established as a "green" method for the production of a reproducible red clover extract (RCE). The process utilized 72-h fermentation in DI water at 25 and 37 °C. The aglycones obtained at 25 °C, as determined by UHPLC-UV and quantitative ¹H NMR (qHNMR), increased significantly in the auto-hydrolyzed (ARCE) (6.2-6.7% w/w biochanin A 1, 6.1-9.9% formononetin 2) vs a control ethanol (ERCE) extract (0.24% 1, 0.26% 2). After macerating ARCE with 1:1 (v/v) diethyl ether/hexanes (ARCE-d/h), 1 and 2 increased to 13.1-16.7% and 14.9-18.4% w, respectively, through depletion of fatty components. The final extracts showed chemical profiles similar to that of a previous clinical RCE. Biological standardization revealed that the enriched ARCE-d/h extracts produced the strongest estrogenic activity in ERα positive endometrial cells (Ishikawa cells), followed by the precursor ARCE. The glycoside-rich ERCE showed no estrogenic activity. The estrogenicity of ARCE-d/h was similar to that of the clinical RCE. The lower potency of the ARCE compared to the prior clinical RCE indicated that substantial amounts of fatty acids/matter likely reduce the estrogenicity of crude hydrolyzed preparations. The in vitro dynamic residual complexity of the conversion of biochanin A to genistein was evaluated by LC-MS-MS. The outcomes help advance translational research with red clover and other (iso)flavone-rich botanicals by inspiring the preparation of (iso)flavone aglycone-enriched extracts for the exploration of new in vitro and ex vivo bioactivities that are unachievable with genuine, glycoside-containing extracts.

Xiaoyaosan decoction alleviated rat liver fibrosis via the TGFβ/Smad and Akt/FoxO3 signaling pathways based on network pharmacology analysis

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Liver fibrosis is an outcome of many chronic liver diseases and often results in cirrhosis, liver failure, and even hepatocarcinoma. Xiaoyaosan decoction (XYS) as a classical Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) formula is used to liver fibrosis in clinical practice while its mechanism is unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The aim of this study was to investigate the anti-fibrosis effect of XYS and to explore the molecular mechanisms by combining network pharmacology and transcriptomic technologies.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver fibrosis rat were treated with three doses of XYS. The liver fibrosis and function were evaluated by histopathological examination and serum biochemical detection. The fibrosis related protein a-SMA and collagen I were assessed by Western blot. Different expressed genes (DEGs) between XYS-treated group and model group were analyzed. The herb-component-target network was constructed combined the network pharmacology. The predict targets and pathways were validated by in vitro and in vivo experiments.

RESULTS

With XYS treatment, the liver function was significantly improved, and fibrotic changes were alleviated. The a-SMA and collagen I expression levels in the liver were also decreased in XYS-treated rats compared with CCl4 model rats. 108 active components and 42 targets from 8 herbs constituted herb-compound-target network by transcriptomics and network pharmacology analysis. The KEGG pathway and GO enrichment analyses showed that the FoxO, TGFβ, AMPK, MAPK, PPAR, and hepatitis B and C pathways were involved in the anti-fibrosis effects of XYS. In the liver tissues, p-FoxO3a and p-Akt expression levels were significantly increased in the CCl4 model group but decreased in the XYS-treated group. The TGFβ1/Smad pathway and Akt/FoxO3 pathway were verified in LX2 cells by inhibiting phosphorylation of Smad3 and Akt activity, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggested that XYS markedly alleviated CCl4-induced liver fibrosis in histopathological and serum liver function analyses, and this effect may occur via the TGFβ1/Smad and Akt/FoxO signaling pathways.

The role of nitric oxide in peptic ulcer: a narrative review

Peptic ulcer refers to the inflammatory response and necrotic lesions of the mucosa under the action of various pathogenic factors, which goes deeply into the mucosal muscle layer and often occurs to the gastrointestinal mucosa related to gastric acid secretion, among which the stomach and duodenum are the most common. The clinical manifestations include slow onset, prolonged course and weekly upper abdominal pain. Nitric oxide (NO) is an intracellular and intercellular signaling molecule that plays an important role in many physiological and pathological processes. Studies have found that a small amount of NO produced in vivo plays a role in many physiological homeostasis, such as regulating blood pressure, platelet aggregation, nitrogenization of hemoglobin, and regulating proliferation and differentiation of stem cells. However, under the action of some cytokines and oxidative stress, intracellular NO synthase will catalyze the synthesis of large amounts of NO and participate in the inflammatory response, causing beneficial or harmful effect on the body. Numerous basic studies have focused on the relationship between NO and peptic ulcer. The purpose of this review is to summarize the role of NO in peptic ulcer and its possible mechanism.

Metabolomic analysis to detect urinary molecular changes associated with bipolar depression

Bipolar disorder (BD) is a debilitating mental disorder with complex clinical manifestations and low diagnostic accuracy. Depressive episodes are most common in the course of BD with high comorbidity and suicide rates, which present greater clinical challenges than mania and hypomania episodes. However, there are no objective biomarkers for bipolar depression. The aim of this study was to detect urinary metabolite biomarkers that could be useful for the diagnosis of bipolar depression. Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy was used to profile urine samples of patients with bipolar depression (n = 37) and healthy volunteers (n = 48). Data were analyzed using Orthogonal Partial Least Square Discriminant Analysis and t-test. Differential metabolites were identified (VIP > 1 and p < 0.05), and further analyzed using Metabo Analyst 3.0 to identify associated metabolic pathways. In total, we identified seven metabolites differentially expressed in patients with BD and healthy controls. Compared with healthy group, the levels of betaine, glycerol, hippuric acid, indole sulfate, trimethylamine oxide, and urea in urine samples of BD patients were significantly higher, while the level of inositol was significantly lower. Most of these small molecules are related to lipid metabolism and gut microbiota metabolism. These differential metabolites could provide critical insight into the pathological mechanisms of bipolar depression. The results of this study provide a meaningful reference for similar and further studies in the future.

Urine metabolomic responses to aerobic and resistance training in rats under chronic unpredictable mild stress

Background

It is known that bioenergetics of aerobic and resistance exercise are not the same but both can effectively improve depression. However, it is not clear whether and how different types of exercise can influence depression through the same metabolic regulatory system. Metabolomics provides a way to study the correlation between metabolites and changes in exercise and/or diseases through the quantitative analysis of all metabolites in the organism. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of aerobic and resistance training on urinary metabolites by metabolomics analysis in a rodent model of depression.

Methods

Male Sprague-Dawley rats were given chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) for eight weeks. The validity of the modeling was assessed by behavioral indices. After four weeks of CUMS, the rats that developed depression were randomly divided into a depression control group, an aerobic training group and a resistance training group. There was also a normal control group. From week 5, the rats in the exercise groups were trained for 30 min per day, five days per week, for four weeks. The urine samples were collected pre and post the training program, and analyzed by proton nuclear magnetic resonance (¹H-NMR) spectroscopy.

Results

Both types of training improved depression-like behavior in CUMS rats. Compared with normal control, 21 potential biomarkers were identified in the urine of CUMS rats, mainly involved in energy, amino acids and intestinal microbial metabolic pathways. Common responses to the training were found in the two exercise groups that the levels of glutamine, acetone and creatine were significantly recalled (all P<0.05) Aerobic training also resulted in changes in pyruvate and trigonelline, while resistance training modified α-Oxoglutarate, citric acid, and trimethylamine oxide (all P<0.05).

Conclusions

Aerobic and resistance training resulted in common effects on the metabolic pathways of alanine-aspartate-glutamate, TCA cycle, and butyric acid. Aerobic training also had effects on glycolysis or gluconeogenesis and pyruvate metabolism, while resistance training had additional effect on intestinal microbial metabolism.

Plasma metabolomics of depressed patients and treatment with Xiaoyaosan based on mass spectrometry technique

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Xiaoyaosan (XYS), a famous and classic traditional Chinese prescription, has been used for long time in treating depressive disorders. XYS consists of Radix Bupleuri (Bupleurum chinense DC.), Radix Angelicae Sinensis (Angelica sinensis (Oliv.) Diels), Radix PaeoniaeAlba (Paeonia lactiflora Pall.), Rhizoma Atractylodis Macrocepha lae (Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz.), Poria (Poria cocos (Schw.)Wolf), Radix Glycyrrhizae (Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch.), Herba Menthae Haplocalycis (Mentha haplocalyx Briq.), and Rhizoma Zin-giberis Recens (Zingiber officinale Rosc.).

AIM OF THE STUDY

A GC-MS based metabolomics approach was applied to discover the potential biomarkers that were related to metabolic differences between healthy volunteers and depression cohort diagnosed by HAMD and CGI, and to demonstrate the potential utility of these biomarkers in the diagnosis of depression and pharmaceutical efficacy of XYS.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 17 depressed patients and the 17 age- and gender-matched healthy subjects were served as the primary cohort. The depressed patients were screened according to the Chinese Classification of Mental Disorder (CCMD-3) and the Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD). In addition, five other depressed patients were also enrolled as the primary cohort when the final step of sample collection was conducted. Plasma samples were analyzed by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). Clinical and metabolomics data were analyzed by multivariate statistics analysis, Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve and MetaboAnalyst.

RESULTS

We observed significant differences between depression cohort and healthy volunteers, and between patients before and after the treatment of XYS. The method was then clinically validated in an independent validation cohort. Levels of oxalic and stearic acids significantly increased in depressed patients' plasma while valine and urea significantly decreased, as compared with healthy controls. Of note, XYS reversed these metabolite changes in terms of regulating dysfunctions in glyoxylate and dicarboxylate metabolism, fatty acid biosynthesis, valine, leucine and isoleucine biosynthesis, and arginine and proline metabolism. Importantly, the combination of oxalic and stearic acids is in prospect as diagnose biomarkers.

CONCLUSIONS

This study highlights the clinical application of metabolomics in disease diagnose and therapy evaluation, which will help in improving our understanding of depression and will lay solid foundation for the clinic application of TCMs. In addition, it suggests that the combination of the two potential biomarkers had also achieved a high diagnostic value, which consequently could be used a diagnose biomarkers.

Sex-Specific Associations of Trimethylamine-N-Oxide and Zonulin with Signs of Depression in Carbohydrate Malabsorbers and Nonmalabsorbers

BACKGROUND

The microbiome-derived trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO) and the intestinal permeability marker zonulin are considered to be linked with depression. Moreover, carbohydrate malabsorption (CMA) was shown to be associated with signs of depression. This study is aimed at investigating possible sex-specific associations between TMAO and zonulin and the presence of depressive signs in individuals with and without CMA.

METHODS

Serum concentrations of TMAO and zonulin were determined in 115 and 136 individuals with the presence or absence of CMA. All 251 study participants underwent lactase gene C/T_-13910 polymorphism genotyping and fructose H₂/CH₄ breath testing. Additionally, they filled in the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II) questionnaire.

RESULTS

The median TMAO and zonulin serum concentrations were 2.66 (1.93-4.14) μmol/L and 40.83 (34.73-47.48) ng/mL. Serum TMAO levels were positively correlated with depressive symptoms (P = 0.011, ρ = 0.160). The strongest correlations were observed in 87 females (P = 0.010, ρ = 0.274) and 49 males (P = 0.027, ρ = 0.315) without CMA, whereas 115 patients with CMA showed no significant correlations. Zonulin tended to be negatively correlated with the BDI-II score in 49 males without CMA (P = 0.062, ρ = -0.269).

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates a positive correlationship between the serum TMAO concentrations and the severity of depressive symptoms in females and males without CMA. Serum zonulin levels were negatively correlated with signs of depression in males without CMA. These findings suggest a gender-specific relationship between the serum TMAO and zonulin concentrations, depression, and CMA.

A Novel Network Pharmacology Strategy to Decode Metabolic Biomarkers and Targets Interactions for Depression

Depression is one of the most prevalent and serious mental disorders with a worldwide significant health burden. Metabolic abnormalities and disorders in patients with depression have attracted great research attention. Thirty-six metabolic biomarkers of clinical plasma metabolomics were detected by platform technologies, including gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) and proton nuclear magnetic resonance (¹H-NMR), combined with multivariate data analysis techniques in previous work. The principal objective of this study was to provide valuable information for the pathogenesis of depression by comprehensive analysis of 36 metabolic biomarkers in the plasma of depressed patients. The relationship between biomarkers and enzymes were collected from the HMDB database. Then the metabolic biomarkers-enzymes interactions (MEI) network was performed and analyzed to identify hub metabolic biomarkers and enzymes. In addition, the docking score-weighted multiple pharmacology index (DSWMP) was used to assess the important pathways of hub metabolic biomarkers involved. Finally, validated these pathways by published literature. The results show that stearic acid, phytosphingosine, glycine, glutamine and phospholipids were important metabolic biomarkers. Hydrolase, transferase and acyltransferase involve the largest number of metabolic biomarkers. Nine metabolite targets (TP53, IL1B, TNF, PTEN, HLA-DRB1, MTOR, HRAS, INS and PIK3CA) of potential drug proteins for treating depression are widely involved in the nervous system, immune system and endocrine system. Seven important pathways, such as PI3K-Akt signaling pathway and mTOR signaling pathway, are closely related to the pathology mechanisms of depression. The application of important biomarkers and pathways in clinical practice may help to improve the diagnosis of depression and the evaluation of antidepressant effect, which provides important clues for the study of metabolic characteristics of depression.

Simultaneous determination of multiple components in formula and preparations of Xiaoyaosan

Xiaoyaosan is one of the famous formulas treating for liver, spleen and blood deficiency syndrome along Chinese history. Their five main components, paeoniflorin, ferulic acid, glycyrrhizic acid, liquiritin, and atractylenolide I are believed to partly representative of this formula. Ultra performance liquid chromatography method was newly established, UPLC BEH-C18 column (2.1 × 100 mm, 1.7 μm) with acetonitrile - 0.1% phosphate acid gradient elution system, in 0.4 mL/min and the temperature was 30 °C; Detection wavelengths were optimized separately. The five components were linear within their linear range (r ≥ 0.9991), average recovery 97.63%∼102.83%, RSD 1.88%∼4.38%. The newly established method is accurate, rapid, and convenient, with satisfied separation performance to quantify multi-components in formula and preparations of Xiaoyaosan. It will provide a reliable reference for the quality evaluation of both Xiaoyaosan formula and preparations during the process of manufacture, administration and clinical application in the future.

Brain metabonomics study of the antidepressant-like effect of Xiaoyaosan on the CUMS-depression rats by 1H NMR analysis

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Xiaoyaosan (XYS), a famous TCM prescription with a long history of clinical use for relieving a wide variety of depression symptoms, consists of Radix Bupleuri (Bupleurum chinense DC.), Radix Angelicae Sinensis (Angelica sinensis (Oliv.) Diels), Radix PaeoniaeAlba (Paeonia lactiflora Pall.), Rhizoma Atractylodis Macrocepha lae (Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz.), Poria (Poria cocos (Schw.)Wolf), Radix Glycyrrhizae (Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch.), Herba Menthae Haplocalycis (Mentha haplocalyx Briq.), and Rhizoma Zin-giberis Recens (Zingiber officinale Rosc.).

AIM OF THE STUDY

We aimed to characterize the diversity and variation of two kinds metabolites of brain, i.e. aqueous and lipophilic metabolites, gaining comprehensive insights into the metabolic processes of depression-like behavior, and to reveal the mechanisms of antidepressant-like effects of XYS.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We first established a CUMS (Chronic Unpredictable Mild Stress)-induced depression-like behavior model. We then extracted both aqueous and lipophilic metabolites of rat brains by a two-phase extraction method, which were subsequently characterized by two differential sequences of ¹H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). Multivariate analysis including Principal Components Analysis (PCA) and Orthogonal Partial Least Squares-Discriminate Analysis (OPLS-DA) was applied.

RESULTS

Metabolic profiling by PCA indicated that XYS significantly reversed the metabolic perturbation caused by CUMS. OPLS-DA showed a total of 15 metabolites including 6 lipophilic and 9 aqueous metabolites was screened as potential biomarkers involved in CUMS-induced depression-like behavior. On top of this, five pathways including (1)D-glutamine and D-glutamate metabolism, (2) valine, leucine and isoleucine biosynthesis, (3) alanine, aspartate and glutamate metabolism, (4) taurine and hypotaurine metabolism and (5) arginine and proline metabolism were recognized as the most influenced pathways associated with the process of CUMS-induced depression-like behavior. Notably, XYS significantly reversed abnormality of 5 aqueous and 4 lipophilic metabolites to normal, suggesting that XYS synergistically mediated abnormalities of multiple pathways (1), (3), (4) and (5).

CONCLUSIONS

It is the first report to investigate the antidepressant-like effects and underlying mechanisms of XYS from the perspective of brain metabolites. In a broad sense, this study brings novel and valuable insights to evaluate the efficacy of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), to interpret mechanisms, and to provide the theoretical basis for further research on therapeutic mechanisms in clinical practice.

Quantitative analysis, pharmacokinetics and metabolomics study for the comprehensive characterization of the salt-processing mechanism of Psoraleae Fructus

Research based on quantitative analysis, pharmacokinetics and metabolomics was conducted to explore the effects of salt-processing on Psoraleae Fructus (PF). Quantitative analysis showed that the contents of bioactive components were higher in salt-processed Psoraleae Fructus (SPF) extract than in PF extract. Pharmacokinetics indicated that the overall AUC and t_max levels was higher, while C_max was lower in the SPF group. In the metabolomics study, the differential influences of PF and SPF on 22 common biomarkers and associated metabolic pathways showed that salt-processing could enhance the effect of PF and reduce toxicity in the cardiovascular and renal systems. The internal correlations among these results, together with the influence of salt-processing, suggested that the effects of heating and newly generated surfactants during the salt-processing procedure were the primary causes of the changes in chemical composition and absorption characteristics, as well as the subsequent enhanced efficacy and minor toxicity.

Evaluations of the effect of HuangQi against heart failure based on comprehensive echocardiography index and metabonomics

BACKGROUND

HuangQi (HQ) is a major medicinal herb commonly used as an ingredient of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formulas. It has been proved to be effective against heart failure (HF). However, its holistic therapeutic mechanism is not yet well explored.

PURPOSE

The present study was designed to investigate the inhibitory effects and action mechanism of HQ in adriamycin (ADR)-induced HF rats.

METHODS

An integrative approach combining comprehensive echocardiography index (CEI) and metabonomics was conducted to assess the integral efficacy of HQ against HF. CEI was constructed to comprehensively evaluate the protection of HQ through principal component analysis of eight echocardiography parameters. Meanwhile, NMR-based untargeted metabolomic studies were performed to investigate the regulative effects of HQ coupled with correlation analysis.

RESULTS

HQ showed significant regulatory effects on four echocardiography parameters (left ventricular diastolic diameter, left ventricular systolic wall thickness, ejection fraction and fractional shortening). The effect on comprehensive CEI also demonstrated the efficacy of HQ against HF, especially on the first principal component (PC₁). HQ could exert marked metabolic regulations on five key metabolites related to HF (NAG, 3-hydroxybutyrate, glutamine, succinate and acetoacetate), which were mainly involved into alterations of energy metabolism, oxidative stress, hypertrophy, as well as inflammatory. Their correlation analysis revealed the relationship between the metabolic profiles and cardiac function, which further authenticated the systemic regulation of HQ against HF.

CONCLUSION

Current evidences revealed that HQ was effective in control of HF from cardiac dysfunction and metabolic alterations. This study provided a useful approach for evaluating the efficacy of TCMs against HF.

Combined systems pharmacology and fecal metabonomics to study the biomarkers and therapeutic mechanism of type 2 diabetic nephropathy treated with Astragalus and Leech

In our study, systems pharmacology was used to predict the molecular targets of Astragalus and Leech, and explore the therapeutic mechanism of type 2 diabetic nephropathy (T2DN) treated with Astragalus and Leech. Simultaneously, to reveal the systemic metabolic changes and biomarkers associated with T2DN, we performed 1H NMR-based metabonomics and multivariate analysis to analyze fecal samples obtained from model T2DN rats. In addition, ELISA kits and histopathological studies were used to examine biochemical parameters and kidney tissue, respectively. Striking differences in the Pearson's correlation of 22 biomarkers and 9 biochemical parameters were also observed among control, T2DN and treated rats. Results of systems pharmacology analysis revealed that 9 active compounds (3,9-di-O-methylnissolin; (6aR,11aR)-9,10-dimethoxy-6a,11a-dihydro-6H-benzofurano[3,2-c]chromen-3-ol; hirudin; l-isoleucine; phenylalanine; valine; hirudinoidine A-C) and 9 target proteins (l-serine dehydratase; 3-hydroxyacyl-CoA dehydrogenase; tyrosyl-tRNA synthetase; tryptophanyl-tRNA synthetase; branched-chain amino acid aminotransferase; acetyl-CoA C-acetyltransferase; isovaleryl-CoA dehydrogenase; pyruvate dehydrogenase E1 component alpha subunit; hydroxyacylglutathione hydrolase) of Astragalus and Leech were closely associated with the treatment of T2DN. Using fecal metabonomics analysis, 22 biomarkers were eventually found to be closely associated with the occurrence of T2DN. Combined with systems pharmacology and fecal metabonomics, these biomarkers were found to be mainly associated with 6 pathways, involving amino acid metabolism (leucine, valine, isoleucine, alanine, lysine, glutamate, taurine, phenylalanine, tryptophan); energy metabolism (lactate, succinate, creatinine, α-glucose, glycerol); ketone body and fatty acid metabolism (3-hydroxybutyrate, acetate, n-butyrate, propionate); methylamine metabolism (dimethylamine, trimethylamine); and secondary bile acid metabolism and urea cycle (deoxycholate, citrulline). The underlying mechanisms of action included protection of the liver and kidney, enhancement of insulin sensitivity and antioxidant activity, and improvement of mitochondrial function. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time that systems pharmacology combined with fecal metabonomics has been used to study T2DN. 6 metabolites (n-butyrate, deoxycholate, propionate, tryptophan, taurine and glycerol) associated with T2DN were newly discovered in fecal samples. These 6 metabolites were mainly derived from the intestinal flora, and related to amino acid metabolism, fatty acid metabolism, and secondary bile acid metabolism. We hope the results of this study could be inspirational and helpful for further exploration of T2DN treatment. Meanwhile, our results highlighted that exploring the biomarkers of T2DN and therapeutic mechanisms of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) formulas on T2DN by combining systems pharmacology and fecal metabonomics methods was a promising strategy.

Peripheral biomarkers of major depression and antidepressant treatment response: Current knowledge and future outlooks

BACKGROUND

In recent years, we have accomplished a deeper understanding about the pathophysiology of major depressive disorder (MDD). Nevertheless, this improved comprehension has not translated to improved treatment outcome, as identification of specific biologic markers of disease may still be crucial to facilitate a more rapid, successful treatment. Ongoing research explores the importance of screening biomarkers using neuroimaging, neurophysiology, genomics, proteomics, and metabolomics measures.

RESULTS

In the present review, we highlight the biomarkers that are differentially expressed in MDD and treatment response and place a particular emphasis on the most recent progress in advancing technology which will continue the search for blood-based biomarkers.

LIMITATIONS

Due to space constraints, we are unable to detail all biomarker platforms, such as neurophysiological and neuroimaging markers, although their contributions are certainly applicable to a biomarker review and valuable to the field.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the search for reliable biomarkers of depression and/or treatment outcome is ongoing, the rapidly-expanding field of research along with promising new technologies may provide the foundation for identifying key factors which will ultimately help direct patients toward a quicker and more effective treatment for MDD.

Xiaoyaosan Improves Depressive-Like Behaviors in Mice through Regulating Apelin-APJ System in Hypothalamus

Background: The apelin-APJ system has been considered to play a crucial role in HPA axis function, and how the traditional Chinese compound prescription Xiaoyaosan regulates the apelin-APJ system as a supplement to treat depressive disorders. Objective: To investigate the depression-like behaviors and expression of apelin and APJ in hypothalamus of chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) mice and study whether these changes related to the regulation of Xiaoyaosan. Methods: 60 adult C57BL/6J mice were randomly divided into four groups, including control group, CUMS group, Xiaoyaosan treatment group and fluoxetine treatment group. Mice in the control group and CUMS group received 0.5 mL physiological saline once a day by intragastric administration. Mice in two treatment groups received Xiaoyaosan (0.25 g/kg/d) and fluoxetine (2.6 mg/kg/d), respectively. After 21 days of modeling with CUMS, the expression of apelin and APJ in hypothalamus were measured by real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR, western blot and immunohistochemical staining. The physical condition, body weight, food intake and behavior tests such as open field test, sucrose preference test and force swimming test were measured to evaluate depressive-like behaviors. Results: In this study, significant behavioral changes were found in CUMS-induced mice, meanwhile the expressions of apelin and APJ in the hypothalamus were changed after modeling. The body weight, food-intake and depressive-like behaviors in CUMS-induced mice could be improved by Xiaoyaosan treatment which is similar with the efficacy of fluoxetine, while the expressions of apelin and APJ in hypothalamus were modified by Xiaoyaosan. Conclusions: The data suggest that apelin-APJ system changes in the hypothalamus may be a target of depressive disorders, and the beneficial effects of Chinese compound prescription Xiaoyaosan on depressive-like behaviors may be mediated by the apelin-APJ system.

Short Term Intrarectal Administration of Sodium Propionate Induces Antidepressant-Like Effects in Rats Exposed to Chronic Unpredictable Mild Stress

Depression has been correlated with metabolic disorders, and the gut microbiota and its metabolites have been reported to be key factors affecting metabolic disorders. Several metabolites generated by the gut microbiota have been reported to exert antidepressant-like effects, including the short chain fatty acid (SCFA) butyrate. However, recent work has suggested that the abundance of butyrate is not significantly changed in neither human nor experimental animals with depression, and butyrate has been reported to decrease upon the administration of prebiotics with antidepressant-like effects. Supplementation of endogenous metabolites that are unchanged in depression may induce additional metabolic disorders and may lead to poorer clinical outcomes. However, the endogenous metabolites that are imbalanced in depression may include several antidepressant candidates that could circumvent these problems. In this study, we used GC-MS spectrometry to study the fecal metabolome of rats under Chronic Unpredictable Mild Stress (CUMS). We carried out static and dynamic metabolomics analyses to identify the differential metabolites between the CUMS rats and control rats. We identified propionic acid, rather than butyric acid, as a differential metabolite of the CUMS rats. Consistent with this, a 1-week intrarectal administration of sodium propionate (NaP, the salt form of propionic acid) induced antidepressant-like effects and partially rebalanced the plasma metabolome. The antidepressant-like effects of NaP were correlated with differential rescue of neurotransmitters in the prefrontal cortex, which may be achieved through the reduction of catabolism of noradrenaline, tryptophan and dopamine, rather than serotonin. These findings support NaP as a potential candidate in fighting depression by administering an endogenous metabolite.

The intervention effect of licorice in d-galactose induced aging rats by regulating the taurine metabolic pathway

A potential protective mechanism of licorice in d-galactose induced aging rats.

Toxic responses of Perna viridis hepatopancreas exposed to DDT, benzo(a)pyrene and their mixture uncovered by iTRAQ-based proteomics and NMR-based metabolomics

Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) and benzo(a)pyrene (BaP) are environmental estrogens (EEs) that are ubiquitous in the marine environment. In the present study, we integrated isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation (iTRAQ)-based proteomic and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)-based metabolomic approaches to explore the toxic responses of green mussel hepatopancreas exposed to DDT (10μg/L), BaP (10μg/L) and their mixture. The metabolic responses indicated that BaP primarily disturbed energy metabolism and osmotic regulation in the hepatopancreas of the male green mussel P. viridis. Both DDT and the mixture of DDT and BaP perturbed the energy metabolism and osmotic regulation in P. viridis. The proteomic responses revealed that BaP affected the proteins involved in energy metabolism, material transformation, cytoskeleton, stress responses, reproduction and development in green mussels. DDT exposure could change the proteins involved in primary metabolism, stress responses, cytoskeleton and signal transduction. However, the mixture of DDT and BaP altered proteins associated with material and energy metabolism, stress responses, signal transduction, reproduction and development, cytoskeleton and apoptosis. This study showed that iTRAQ-based proteomic and NMR-based metabolomic approaches could effectively elucidate the essential molecular mechanism of disturbances in hepatopancreas function of green mussels exposed to environmental estrogens.

Comparative metabolomics study on therapeutic mechanism of electro-acupuncture and moxibustion on rats with chronic atrophic gastritis (CAG)

Some studies have proved that both acupuncture and moxibustion are very effective for the treatment of CAG. However, little is known about therapeutic mechanism of electro-acupuncture and moxibustion on CAG as well as the difference between them. On the other hand, metabolomics is a 'top-down' approach to understand metabolic changes of organisms caused by disease or interventions in holistic context, which consists with the holistic thinking of electro-acupuncture and moxibustion treatment. In this study, the difference of therapeutic mechanism between electro-acupuncture and moxibustion on CAG rats was investigated by a ¹H NMR-based metabolomics analysis of multiple biological samples (serum, stomach, cerebral cortex and medulla) coupled with pathological examination and molecular biological assay. For all sample types, both electro-acupuncture and moxibustion intervention showed beneficial effects by restoring many CAG-induced metabolic changes involved in membrane metabolism, energy metabolism and function of neurotransmitters. Notably, the moxibustion played an important role in CAG treatment mainly by regulating energy metabolism in serum, while main acting site of electro-acupuncture treatment was nervous system in stomach and brain. These findings are helpful to facilitate the therapeutic mechanism elucidating of electro-acupuncture and moxibustion on CAG rats. Metabolomics is promising in mechanisms study for traditional Chinese medicine (TCM).

The effect of Bu Zhong Yi Qi decoction on simulated weightlessness‑induced muscle atrophy and its mechanisms

Microgravity has been previously demonstrated to induce skeletal muscle atrophy, loss of muscle force and disorders in myogenesis and metabolism. Current pharmacological strategies exhibit poor efficacy. Bu Zhong Yi Qi decoction (BZ) is a well-known traditional Chinese medicine decoction used for myasthenia gravis. In the present study, its effect on unloading induced muscle atrophy was investigated. The mousetail suspension model was used to simulate weightlessness induced muscle atrophy. The results indicated that BZ could significantly protect muscles from simulated weightlessness-induced atrophy. To elucidate the underlying mechanisms, drugCIPHER-CS methods were introduced to predict its potential targets, significantly enriched pathways and biological processes. The results demonstrated that the calcium signaling pathway, citrate cycle, biosynthetic and lipid metabolic process are affected by BZ. Among the targets, nuclear receptor corepressor 1 (NCoR1) is one of the most important proteins involved in myogenesis and metabolism. The results indicated that BZ significantly downregulated NCoR 1 expression, and further induced muscle differentiation and metabolism by regulating NCoR1-associated gene expression in vivo and in vitro. In summary, the present study indicated that may be effective in combating weightlessness-induced muscle atrophy. Combined with bioinformatics, the underlying mechanism for this decoction was investigated, which provided an improved understanding of this decoction.

Metabolomics Analysis for Defining Serum Biochemical Markers in Colorectal Cancer Patients with Qi Deficiency Syndrome or Yin Deficiency Syndrome

Colorectal cancer is one of the leading causes of tumor-associated death, and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) classifies colorectal cancer into various subtypes mainly according to the symptomatic pattern identification (ZHENG). Here, we investigated the difference in metabolic profiles of serum by comparing colorectal cancer subjects with Nondeficiency (ND), Qi deficiency (QD), and Yin deficiency (YD). The ratio of subjects with carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) was higher in YD pattern, and the ratio of subjects with carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA19-9) was higher both in YD and in QD, compared with ND. As a result of metabolomics analysis, twenty-five metabolites displayed differences between QD and ND, while twenty-eight metabolites displayed differences between YD and ND. The downregulated metabolites in QD/ND and YD/ND mainly include carbohydrates and the upregulated metabolites mainly include amino acids and fatty acids, suggesting conversion obstruction of carbohydrates, fatty acids, and amino acids occurs in patients with QD and YD compared with ND. Our results demonstrate that colorectal cancer patients with QD or YD were associated with metabolic disorders and the variations of serum metabolic profiles may serve as potential biochemical markers for diagnosis and prognosis of colorectal cancer patients displayed QD or YD patterns.

Bioassay-guided isolation of saikosaponins with agonistic activity on 5-hydroxytryptamine 2C receptor from Bupleurum chinense and their potential use for the treatment of obesity

5-Hydroxytryptamine 2C (5-HT_2C) receptor is one of the major targets of anti-obesity agents, due to its role in regulation of appetite. In the present study, the 70% EtOH extract of the roots of Bupleurum chinense was revealed to have agonistic activity on 5-HT_2C receptor, and the subsequent bioassay-guided isolation led to identification of several saikosaponins as the active constituents with 5-HT_2C receptor agonistic activity in vitro and anti-obesity activity in vivo. The new compound, 22-oxosaikosaponin d (1), was determined by extensive spectroscopic analyses (HR-ESI-MS, IR, and 1D and 2D NMR). The primary structure-activity relationship study suggested that the intramolecular ether bond between C-13 and C-28 and the number of sugars at C-3 position were closely related to the 5-HT_2C receptor agonistic activity. Saikosaponin a (3), the main saponin in B. chinense, showed obviously agonistic activity on 5-HT_2C receptor with an EC₅₀ value of 21.08 ± 0.33 μmol·L^-1in vitro and could reduce food intake by 39.1% and 69.2%, and weight gain by 13.6% and 16.4%, respectively, at 3.0 and 6.0 mg·kg^-1in vivo. This investigation provided valuable information for the potential use of B. chinense as anti-obesity agent.

The hematinic effect of Colla corii asini (Ejiao) using 1H-NMR metabolomics coupled with correlation analysis in APH-induced anemic rats

Colla corii asini (Ejiao), a gelatin-like food and drug obtained from Equus asinus Linnaeus, has been widely used in clinical hematic antianemic therapy for more than 2000 years.

Discovery, screening and evaluation of a plasma biomarker panel for subjects with psychological suboptimal health state using (1)H-NMR-based metabolomics profiles

Individuals in the state of psychological suboptimal health keep increasing, only scales and questionnaires were used to diagnose in clinic under current conditions, and symptoms of high reliability and accuracy are destitute. Therefore, the noninvasive and precise laboratory diagnostic methods are needed. This study aimed to develop an objective method through screen potential biomarkers or a biomarker panel to facilitate the diagnosis in clinic using plasma metabolomics. Profiles were based on H-nuclear magnetic resonance ((1)H-NMR) metabolomics techniques combing with multivariate statistical analysis. Furthermore, methods of correlation analysis with Metaboanalyst 3.0 for selecting a biomarker panel, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) drug intervention for validating the close relations between the biomarker panel and the state and the receiver operating characteristic curves (ROC curves) analysis for evaluation of clinical diagnosis ability were carried out. 9 endogenous metabolites containing trimethylamine oxide (TMAO), glutamine, N-acetyl-glycoproteins, citrate, tyrosine, phenylalanine, isoleucine, valine and glucose were identified and considered as potential biomarkers. Then a biomarker panel consisting of phenylalanine, glutamine, tyrosine, citrate, N-acetyl-glycoproteins and TMAO was selected, which exhibited the highest area under the curve (AUC = 0.971). This study provided critical insight into the pathological mechanism of psychological suboptimal health and would supply a novel and valuable diagnostic method.

Combining biochemical with (1)H NMR-based metabolomics approach unravels the antidiabetic activity of genipin and its possible mechanism

Diabetes mellitus is a typical heterogeneous metabolic disorder characterized by abnormal metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids and proteins. Genipin possesses a wide spectrum of biological activities including ameliorating effects on diabetes, but the definite mechanism of this effect remains unknown. To investigate the antidiabetic activities of genipin and explore the biochemical changes of serum endogenous metabolites on diabetic rats induced by alloxan, (1)H NMR spectroscopy coupled with multivariate data analysis was used to. All rats were randomly divided into six groups including negative control (NC) group, diabetic mellitus (DM) group, metformin hydrochloride group, high dose group of genipin, middle dose group of genipin and low dose group of genipin. Diabetes was induced by a single intraperitoneal injection of 120mg/kg body weight of alloxan. Serum samples were collected for the (1)H NMR-based metabolomics and clinical biochemical analysis. Daily oral administration of genipin (25, 50 and 100mg/kg body weight) and metformin hydrochloride (125mg/kg) for two weeks showed beneficial effects on blood glucose level (P<0.01). Significant differences in the metabolic profile as well as the result of biochemical parameters between the diabetic group and the control group were observed. The PLS-DA scores and corresponding loading plots demonstrated that genipin significantly restored the abnormal metabolic state. Detailed analysis of the altered metabolite levels indicated that genipin significantly ameliorated the disturbance in glucose metabolism, tricarboxylic acid cycle, lipid metabolism and amino acid metabolism. Genipin showed the best anti-diabetic effects at a dose of 100mg/kg in rats. This finding indicates that chemical and metabolomic approaches could be powerful tools for the investigation of the biochemical changes in pathological conditions or drug treatment.

Natural Products Screening for the Identification of Selective Monoamine Oxidase-B Inhibitors

Aims

Monoamine oxidase-B inhibitors (MAO-BIs) are used for the initial therapy of Parkinson’s disease. Also, MAO-BIs have shown to be effective neuroprotective agents in several neurodegenerative diseases. However, some concerns exist regarding the long-term use of these compounds. Meanwhile, natural compounds showed potential MAO-B selective inhibitions. To date, few selective natural MAO-BIs have been identified. Therefore, the current study is designed to identify plants with potent and specific MAO-B inhibition.

Study Design

In this work, we utilized high throughput screening to evaluate the different plants ethanolic extract for their effectiveness to inhibit recombinant human (h)MAO-A and hMAO-B and to determine the relative selectivity of the top MAO-BI.

Methodology

Recombinant human isozymes were verified by Western blotting, and the 155 plants were screened. A continuous fluorometric screening assay was performed followed by two separate hMAO-A and hMAO-B microtiter screenings and IC₅₀ determinations for the top extracts.

Results

In the screened plants, 9% of the extracts showed more than 1.5-fold relative inhibition of hMAO-B (RI_B) and another 9% showed more than 1.5-fold relative inhibition of hMAO-A. The top extracts with the most potent RI_Bs were Psoralea corylifolia seeds, Phellodendron amurense bark, Glycyrrhiza uralensis roots, and Ferula assafoetida roots, with the highest RI_B of 5.9-fold. Furthermore, extensive maceration of the promising extracts led to increase inhibitory effects with a preserved RI_B as confirmed with luminescence assay. The top four extracts hMAO-BIs were equally potent (IC₅₀= 1.3 to 3.8 μg/mL) with highly significant relative selectivities to inhibit hMAO-B (4.1- to 13.4-fold).

Conclusion

The obtained results indicate that Psoralea corylifolia seeds, Ferula assafoetida, Glycyrrhiza uralensis roots, and Phellodendron amurense ethanolic extracts have selective inhibitions for human MAO-B. Investigating these plant extracts as natural resources for novel selective MAO-BIs may lead to the development of molecules that can be used in the therapeutic management of neurodegenerative diseases including Parkinson’s disease.