A network pharmacology approach to determine active ingredients and rationality of herb combinations of Modified-Simiaowan for treatment of gout

Signaling pathways in uric acid homeostasis and gout: From pathogenesis to therapeutic interventions

Uric acid is a product of purine degradation, and uric acid may have multiple physiologic roles, including the beneficial effects as an antioxidant and neuroprotector, maintenance of blood pressure during low salt ingestion, and modulation of immunity. However, overproduction of metabolic uric acid, and/or imbalance of renal uric acid secretion and reabsorption, and/or underexcretion of extrarenal uric acid, e.g. gut, will contribute to hyperuricemia, which is a common metabolic disease. Long-lasting hyperuricemia can induce the formation and deposition of monosodium urate (MSU) crystals within the joints and periarticular structures. MSU crystals further induce an acute, intensely painful, and sterile inflammation conditions named as gout by NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated cleavage of pro-IL-1β to bioactive IL-1β. Moreover, hyperuricemia and gout are associated with multiple cardiovascular and renal disorders, e.g., hypertension, myocardial infarction, stroke, obesity, hyperlipidemia, type 2 diabetes mellitus and chronic kidney disease. Although great efforts have been made by scientists of modern medicine, however, modern therapeutic strategies with a single target are difficult to exert long-term positive effects, and even some of these agents have severe adverse effects. The Chinese have used the ancient classic prescriptions of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) to treat metabolic diseases, including gout, by multiple targets, for more than 2200 years. In this review, we discuss the current understanding of urate homeostasis, the pathogenesis of hyperuricemia and gout, and both modern medicine and TCM strategies for this commonly metabolic disorder. We hope these will provide the good references for treating hyperuricemia and gout.

Modified Simiaowan prevents and treats gouty arthritis via the Nrf2/NLRP3 inflammasome signaling pathway

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Modified Simiaowan (MSM) is a six-herb formula that has been shown to be effective in gouty arthritis (GA) has been proven, but its regulatory mechanism has not been fully elucidated.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To investigate the therapeutic effects and mechanism of MSM on gouty arthritis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Mouse J774A.1 macrophages were induced with Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and then stimulated with Adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP) or Nigericin (Nig.) in presence or absence of MSM. Expression of key indicators of pro-inflammatory cytokines and the NLRP3 inflammasome signaling pathway were investigated by western blot, ELISA and qRT-PCR. Fluorescence staining and flow cytometry were performed to detect intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Another study, the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities of MSM were evaluated in rats with monosodium urate (MSU) -induced gouty arthritis using ELISA, hematoxylin-eosin staining (HE) staining, immunohistochemistry, and oxidative stress kits to measure relevant inflammatory markers and oxidative stress-related biomarkers.

RESULTS

ELISA and qRT-PCR results demonstrated that MSM effectively reduced the secretion and the mRNA expression levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Western blot results indicated that MSM can suppress the expression of NLRP3, an inflamasomes-related protein. In addition, MSM regulated the transition from M1 to M2 macrophages and upregulated the protein expression of Nrf2 and HO-1. The flow cytometry results and the fluorescence staining result were consistent with hypothesis that a large amount of ROS could be effectively cleared by MSM. However, the anti-inflammatory effect of MSM was attenuated after the use of ML385. In vivo experiments demonstrated that joint swelling was significantly attenuated and knee neutrophil infiltration was alleviated in rats given MSM. SOD and GSH-px levels were elevated significantly, while COX-2 and MDA levels decreased. The immunohistochemical results suggested that MSM could effectively inhibit the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome and the regulation of macrophage polarization in rat synovial tissue, and remarkably enhance the expression of Nrf2 and HO-1.

CONCLUSION

MSM has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects on MSU-induced gouty arthritis. MSM alleviates GA through Nrf2/HO-1/ROS/NLRP3 signaling pathway.

Systematic investigation of the multi-scale mechanisms of herbal medicine on treating ventricular remodeling: Theoretical and experimental studies

BACKGROUND

To explore the underlying molecule mechanism of herbal medicine in preventing ventricular remodeling (VR), we take a herbal formula that is clinically effective for preventing VR as an example, which composed of Pachyma hoelen Rumph, Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz., Cassia Twig and Licorice. Due to multi-components and multi-targets in herbal medicine, it is extremely difficult to systematically explain its mechanisms of action.

METHODS

An innovative systematic investigation framework which combines with pharmacokinetic screening, target fishing, network pharmacology, DeepDDI algorithm, computational chemistry, molecular thermodynamics, in vivo and in vitro experiments was performed for deciphering the underlying molecular mechanisms of herbal medicine for treating VR.

RESULTS

ADME screening and SysDT algorithm determined 75 potentially active compounds and 109 corresponding targets. Then, systematic analysis of networks reveals the crucial active ingredients and key targets in herbal medicine. Additionally, transcriptomic analysis identifies 33 key regulators during VR progression. Moreover, PPI network and biological function enrichment present four crucial signaling pathways, i.e. NF-κB and TNF, PI3K-AKT and C-type lectin receptor signaling pathways involved in VR. Besides, both molecular experiments at animal and cell levels reveal the beneficial effect of herbal medicine on preventing VR. Finally, MD simulations and binding free energy validate the reliability of drug-target interactions.

CONCLUSION

Our novelty is to build a systematic strategy which combines various theoretical methods combined with experimental approaches. This strategy provides a deep understanding for the study of molecular mechanisms of herbal medicine on treating diseases from systematic level, and offers a new idea for modern medicine to explore drug interventions for complex diseases as well.

Identification of phytochemical compounds of Fagopyrum dibotrys and their targets by metabolomics, network pharmacology and molecular docking studies

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a clinically severe lung illness with high incidence rate and mortality. Especially, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) poses a serious threat to world wide governmental fitness. It has distributed to almost from corner to corner of the universe, and the situation in the prevention and control of COVID-19 remains grave. Traditional Chinese medicine plays a vital role in the precaution and therapy of sicknesses. At present, there is a lack of drugs for treating these diseases, so it is necessary to develop drugs for treating COVID-19 related ALI. Fagopyrum dibotrys (D. Don) Hara is an annual plant of the Polygonaceae family and one of the long-history used traditional medicine in China. In recent years, its rhizomes (medicinal parts) have attracted the attention of scholars at home and abroad due to their significant anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and anticancer activities. It can work on SARS-COV-2 with numerous components, targets, and pathways, and has a certain effect on coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) related acute lung injury (ALI). However, there are few systematic studies on its aerial parts (including stems and leaves) and its potential therapeutic mechanism has not been studied. The phytochemical constituents of rhizome of F. dibotrys were collected using TCMSP database. And metabolites of F. dibotrys' s aerial parts were detected by metabonomics. The phytochemical targets of F. dibotrys were predicted by the PharmMapper website tool. COVID-19 and ALI-related genes were retrieved from GeneCards. Cross targets and active phytochemicals of COVID-19 and ALI related genes in F. dibotrys were enriched by gene ontology (GO) and KEGG by metscape bioinformatics tools. The interplay network entre active phytochemicals and anti COVID-19 and ALI targets was established and broke down using Cytoscape software. Discovery Studio (version 2019) was used to perform molecular docking of crux active plant chemicals with anti COVID-19 and ALI targets. We identified 1136 chemicals from the aerial parts of F. dibotrys, among which 47 were active flavonoids and phenolic chemicals. A total of 61 chemicals were searched from the rhizome of F. dibotrys, and 15 of them were active chemicals. So there are 6 commonly key active chemicals at the aerial parts and the rhizome of F. dibotrys, 89 these phytochemicals's potential targets, and 211 COVID-19 and ALI related genes. GO enrichment bespoken that F. dibotrys might be involved in influencing gene targets contained numerous biological processes, for instance, negative regulation of megakaryocyte differentiation, regulation of DNA metabolic process, which could be put down to its anti COVID-19 associated ALI effects. KEGG pathway indicated that viral carcinogenesis, spliceosome, salmonella infection, coronavirus disease - COVID-19, legionellosis and human immunodeficiency virus 1 infection pathway are the primary pathways obsessed in the anti COVID-19 associated ALI effects of F. dibotrys. Molecular docking confirmed that the 6 critical active phytochemicals of F. dibotrys, such as luteolin, (+) -epicatechin, quercetin, isorhamnetin, (+) -catechin, and (-) -catechin gallate, can combine with kernel therapeutic targets NEDD8, SRPK1, DCUN1D1, and PARP1. In vitro activity experiments showed that the total antioxidant capacity of the aerial parts and rhizomes of F. dibotrys increased with the increase of concentration in a certain range. In addition, as a whole, the antioxidant capacity of the aerial part of F. dibotrys was stronger than that of the rhizome. Our research afford cues for farther exploration of the anti COVID-19 associated ALI chemical compositions and mechanisms of F. dibotrys and afford scientific foundation for progressing modern anti COVID-19 associated ALI drugs based on phytochemicals in F. dibotrys. We also fully developed the medicinal value of F. dibotrys' s aerial parts, which can effectively avoid the waste of resources. Meanwhile, our work provides a new strategy for integrating metabonomics, network pharmacology, and molecular docking techniques which was an efficient way for recognizing effective constituents and mechanisms valid to the pharmacologic actions of traditional Chinese medicine.

Challenges and Perspectives in Target Identification and Mechanism Illustration for Chinese Medicine

Chinese medicine (CM) is an important resource for human life understanding and discovery of drugs. However, due to the unclear pharmacological mechanism caused by unclear target, research and international promotion of many active components have made little progress in the past decades of years. CM is mainly composed of multi-ingredients with multi-targets. The identification of targets of multiple active components and the weight analysis of multiple targets in a specific pathological environment, that is, the determination of the most important target is the main obstacle to the mechanism clarification and thus hinders its internationalization. In this review, the main approach to target identification and network pharmacology were summarized. And BIBm (Bayesian inference modeling), a powerful method for drug target identification and key pathway determination was introduced. We aim to provide a new scientific basis and ideas for the development and international promotion of new drugs based on CM.

Network pharmacology and in vivo experiments reveal the pharmacological effects and molecular mechanisms of Simiao Powder in prevention and treatment for gout

Background

Gout is a common disease with high incidence due to unhealthy diet and living habits. Simiao Powder, as a classic formula consisted of four common herbs, has been widely used in clinical practice since ancient times to prevent and treat gout. However, the pharmacological mechanism of Simiao Powder is still unclear.

Methods

Based on network pharmacology, Simiao Powder active compounds were identified in TCMSP, ETCM and BATMAN database, used to establish a network of interaction between potential targets of Simiao Powder and known therapeutic targets of gout. Subsequently, the key potential targets are being used for protein–protein interaction, GO enrichment analysis and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis through several authoritative open databases. Molecular docking through AutoDockTools software can verify interaction between molecules. Finally, to validate the predicted results, in vivo experiments based on hyperuricemic-gout mice model were designed and treated with Simiao powder and allopurinol. Serum levels of uric acid (UA), creatinine (Cr), blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and xanthine oxidase (XOD) were determined using a customized assay kit while the expression of PPAR-γ, PTGS1, IL-6 and Bcl2 mRNA were analyzed through qRT-PCR.

Results

Disease-target-compound network was visualized basing on the 20 bioactive compounds and the 19 potential targets using Cytoscape software. The results of PPI analysis, GO enrichment and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis indicate that the potential mechanism of Simiao Powder in treating gout may be achieved by regulating immune and inflammatory reactions, improving metabolism and endocrine. The results of molecular docking show that most of the targets and components have good binding activity. In vivo experiments revealed that Simiao powder can decreased serum UA and XOD levels in hyperuricemic-gout mice, and improved renal function. Furthermore, Simiao powder certainly regulates the expression of PPAR-γ, PTGS1, IL-6 and Bcl2 mRNA in ankle tissue in hyperuricemic-gout mice.

Conclusion

Collectively, this research predicted a multiple compounds, targets, and pathways model mechanism of Simiao Powder in the prevention and treatment of gout, providing new ideas and methods for in-depth research, via vivo experiments.

Integrating Network Pharmacology and Transcriptomic Strategies to Explore the Pharmacological Mechanism of Hydroxysafflor Yellow A in Delaying Liver Aging

Aging affects the structure and function of the liver. Hydroxysafflor yellow A (HSYA) effectively improves liver aging (LA) in mice, but the potential mechanisms require further exploration. In this study, an integrated approach combining network pharmacology and transcriptomics was used to elucidate the potential mechanisms of HSYA delay of LA. The targets of HSYA were predicted using the PharmMapper, SwissTargetPrediction, and CTD databases, and the targets of LA were collected from the GeneCards database. An ontology (GO) analysis and a Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway annotation of genes related to HSYA delay of LA were performed using the DAVID database, and Cytoscape software was used to construct an HSYA target pathway network. The BMKCloud platform was used to sequence mRNA from mouse liver tissue, screen differentially expressed genes (DEGs) that were altered by HSYA, and enrich their biological functions and signaling pathways through the OmicShare database. The results of the network pharmacology and transcriptomic analyses were combined. Then, quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and Western blot experiments were used to further verify the prediction results. Finally, the interactions between HSYA and key targets were assessed by molecular docking. The results showed that 199 potentially targeted genes according to network pharmacology and 480 DEGs according to transcriptomics were involved in the effects of HSYA against LA. An integrated analysis revealed that four key targets, including HSP90AA1, ATP2A1, NOS1 and CRAT, as well as their three related pathways (the calcium signaling pathway, estrogen signaling pathway and cGMP-PKG signaling pathway), were closely related to the therapeutic effects of HSYA. A gene and protein expression analysis revealed that HSYA significantly inhibited the expressions of HSP90AA1, ATP2A1 and NOS1 in the liver tissue of aging mice. The molecular docking results showed that HSYA had high affinities with the HSP90AA1, ATP2A1 and NOS1 targets. Our data demonstrate that HSYA may delay LA in mice by inhibiting the expressions of HSP90AA1, ATP2A1 and NOS1 and regulating the calcium signaling pathway, the estrogen signaling pathway, and the cGMP-PKG signaling pathway.

Elucidation of the potential antioxidant compound and mechanism of mung bean using network pharmacology and in vitro anti-oxidative activity

Mung bean is rich in bioactive components, but the main compound and pharmacological mechanism in reducing oxidative and free radical damage are unclear. Network pharmacology and 2,2′-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) radical scavenging activities were employed to uncover the antioxidant mechanism of potentially active compounds, considering the interactions between mung bean targets and oxidative and free radical damage. These key targets were analyzed by protein–protein interactions (PPIs), and key genes were used to find the biological pathway and therapeutic mechanism by Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses. The results showed that five antioxidant components and 18 mung bean targets were screened. β-carotene and vitexin both played a crucial role in mung bean against oxidative and free radical damage, and the ABTS radical scavenging activities of β-carotene and vitexin were 94.84 and 87.79%, which were equivalent to those of vitamin C. Key targets may be AR, HSP90AA1, MYC, and CASP3 for mung bean to exert antioxidant activity. GO and KEGG indicated that mung bean may mainly act on thyroid hormone signaling pathway, estrogen signaling pathway, p53 signaling pathway, etc. In vitro antioxidant activity tests showed that the bioactive ingredients of mung beans had great antioxidant activity. Network pharmacology analysis also revealed the underlying molecular mechanisms of oxidative and free radical damage. This study provides new insights and evidence to explore the bioactive compounds and biological functions of food cereals and legumes, as well as a reference for the functional evaluation of food ingredients and the development of functional foods.

Alleviation of Fufang Fanshiliu decoction on type II diabetes mellitus by reducing insulin resistance: A comprehensive network prediction and experimental validation

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Fufang Fanshiliu decoction (FFSLD) is a Chinese herbal medicine prescription that has been used in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), while the underlying mechanism remains unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To validate the efficacy and explore the potential mechanisms of FFSLD in treating T2DM via integrating a network pharmacological approach and experimental evaluation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

T2DM mice model induced by high-fat diet feeding combined with streptozotocin injection was selected to investigate the alleviation of FFSLD against T2DM, via detecting the levels of glucose, insulin, glucagon (GC), triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). Network pharmacological analysis was used to predict the potential mechanisms, including the pharmacokinetics and drug-likeness screening, active ingredients and potential targets prediction, network analysis, and enrichment analysis. The candidate bioactive molecules of FFSLD, and targets information excavated through TCMSP, Uniprot, GeneCards, OMIM databases, were combined for comprehensive analysis by constructing "drug-compound-target-disease" and "protein-protein interaction" networks. Enrichment analysis was performed via Gene Ontology (GO) and Koto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) databases. HepG2 insulin-resistance (IR) cells model induced by high glucose was used to verify the potential mechanisms of FFSLD against T2DM which were predicted by the network pharmacology.

RESULTS

The animal study showed that FFSLD significantly decreased the blood glucose, and reversed the abnormal levels of insulin, GC, TG, TC, HDL-C, and LDL-C in T2DM mice. Network pharmacological analysis indicated that 106 active compounds of FFSLD might be correlated with 628 targets in treating T2DM, and the mechanism would probably be related to insulin resistance that harbored a high response value (P = 5.88844 E^-33) though regulating Akt1, ESR1, oxidoreductase activity, and JAK/STAT signalings. Experimental validation showed that FFSLD reduced the ROS level, up-regulated the expressions of p-AKT, Nrf-2, and ESR1, and down-regulated the expressions of JAK2, STAT3, and Keap-1 in the HepG2-IR cells model.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated that the therapeutic effect of FFSLD on T2DM was related to IR alleviation. The underlying mechanisms were associated with the regulation of PI3K/AKT, JAK/STAT, oxidative stress, and ESR signaling pathways.

Effects of 6-Hydroxykaempferol: A Potential Natural Product for Amelioration of Tendon Impairment

Tendon impairment is a common injury associated with impairment of range of motion and pain. Currently, evidence has confirmed that natural herbs contribute to orthopedics and have shown excellent results in the clinical management of tendon impairment. Shujin Huoxue tablet (SHT) and its complex prescriptions are regularly used in tendon rupture therapy with positive results. This study aimed to discover the potential molecules that promote tendon healing. The Chinese traditional medicine system pharmacological database analysis platform (TCMSP) is the primary resource. The Traditional Chinese Medicine Integrated Database and Encyclopedia of Traditional Chinese Medicine database were used as secondary databases. The GeneCards database was used to search for reported tendinopathy-related genes by keywords. Functions of the targeted genes were analyzed using Gene Ontology enrichment analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes. Protein–protein interaction information was extracted from the STRING database. Docking study, MTT assay, quantitative real-time PCR, and migration assays were performed to obtain a better understanding of the herbs according to cell function to test the basic pharmacological action in vitro. A total of 104 disease nodes, 496 target gene nodes, 35 ingredient nodes, and one drug node were extracted. According to the TCMSP database, 6-hydroxykaempferol, which reportedly promotes the proliferation of microvascular endothelial cells, is a molecule found in SHT. We found that it promoted the proliferation and migration of tendon fibroblasts and elevated tendon repair-related gene expression. Purified 6-hydroxykaempferol promoted the proliferation and migration of tendon fibroblasts and increased their mRNA expression in tendon proliferation.

Bibliometric Analysis of Network Pharmacology in Traditional Chinese Medicine

Aim

We evaluated the developmental process, research status, and existing challenges of network pharmacology. Moreover, we elucidated the corresponding solutions to improve and develop network pharmacology.

Methods

Research data for the current study were retrieved from the Web of Science. The developmental process of network pharmacology was analyzed using HisCite, whereas cooccurrence analysis of countries, institutions, keywords, and references in literature was conducted using CiteSpace.

Results

In literature, there was a trend of annual increase of studies on network pharmacology and China was found to be the country with the most published literature on network pharmacology. The main publishing research institutions were universities of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). The keywords with more research frequency were TCM, mechanisms, molecular docking, and quercetin, among others.

Conclusion

Currently, studies on network pharmacology are mainly associated with the exploration of action mechanisms of TCM. The main active ingredient in many Chinese medicines is quercetin. This ingredient may lead to deviation of research results, inability to truly analyze active ingredients, and even mislead the research direction of TCM. Such deviation may be because the database fails to reflect the content and composition changes of Chinese medicinal components. The database does not account for interactions among components, targets, and diseases, and it ignores the different pathological states of the disease. Therefore, network pharmacology should be improved from the databases and research methods.

Network Pharmacology Approach for Medicinal Plants: Review and Assessment

Natural products have played a critical role in medicine due to their ability to bind and modulate cellular targets involved in disease. Medicinal plants hold a variety of bioactive scaffolds for the treatment of multiple disorders. The less adverse effects, affordability, and easy accessibility highlight their potential in traditional remedies. Identifying pharmacological targets from active ingredients of medicinal plants has become a hot topic for biomedical research to generate innovative therapies. By developing an unprecedented opportunity for the systematic investigation of traditional medicines, network pharmacology is evolving as a systematic paradigm and becoming a frontier research field of drug discovery and development. The advancement of network pharmacology has opened up new avenues for understanding the complex bioactive components found in various medicinal plants. This study is attributed to a comprehensive summary of network pharmacology based on current research, highlighting various active ingredients, related techniques/tools/databases, and drug discovery and development applications. Moreover, this study would serve as a protocol for discovering novel compounds to explore the full range of biological potential of traditionally used plants. We have attempted to cover this vast topic in the review form. We hope it will serve as a significant pioneer for researchers working with medicinal plants by employing network pharmacology approaches.

The Anti-Inflammatory and Uric Acid Lowering Effects of Si-Miao-San on Gout

Background

Si-Miao-San (SMS) is a well-known traditional Chinese medicine. This study aims to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effects of SMS on gouty arthritis and its potential mechanism of action.

Methods

The effects and mechanism of SMS were evaluated in monosodium urate (MSU)-treated mice or macrophages. The expression of cytokines and PI3K/Akt was analyzed using real-time PCR and Western blotting analyses. Macrophage polarization was assessed with immunofluorescence assays, real-time PCR, and Western blotting. Mass spectrometry was used to screen the active ingredients of SMS.

Results

Pretreatment with SMS ameliorated MSU-induced acute gouty arthritis in mice with increased PI3K/Akt activation and M2 macrophage polarization in the joint tissues. In vitro, SMS treatment significantly inhibited MSU-triggered inflammatory response, increased p-Akt and Arg-1 expression in macrophages, and promoted M2 macrophage polarization. These effects of SMS were inhibited when PI3K/Akt activation was blocked by LY294002 in the macrophages. Moreover, SMS significantly reduced serum uric acid levels in the hyperuricemia mice. Using mass spectrometry, the plant hormones ecdysone and estrone were detected as the potentially effective ingredients of SMS.

Conclusion

SMS ameliorated MSU-induced gouty arthritis and inhibited hyperuricemia. The anti-inflammatory mechanism of SMS may exert anti-inflammatory effects by promoting M2 polarization via PI3K/Akt signaling. Ecdysone and estrone might be the potentially effective ingredients of SMS. This research may provide evidence for the application of SMS in the treatment of gout.

Exploring the Potential Mechanism of Xiaokui Jiedu Decoction for Ulcerative Colitis Based on Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking

Introduction

Network pharmacology is in line with the holistic characteristics of TCM and can be used to elucidate the complex network of interactions between disease-specific genes and compounds in TCM herbal medicines. Here, we investigate the pharmacological mechanism of Xiaokui Jiedu decoction (XJD) for the treatment of ulcerative colitis (UC).

Methods

The Computational Systems Biology Laboratory Platform (TCMSP) database was searched and screened for the active ingredients of all drugs in XJD. The Uniport database was used to retrieve possible gene targets for the therapeutic effects of XJD. GeneCards, PharmGKB, TTD, and OMIM databases were used to retrieve XJD-related gene targets. A herb-compound-protein network and a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network were constructed, and hub genes were screened for Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses. Finally, molecular docking was performed to validate the interrelationship between disease target proteins and active drug components.

Results

A total of 135 XJD potential action targets, 5097 UC-related gene targets, and 103 XJD-UC intersection gene targets were screened. The hub gene targets of XJD that exert therapeutic effects on UC are RB1, MAPK1, TP53, JUN, NR3C1, MAPK3, and ESR1. GO enrichment analysis showed 741 biofunctional enrichments, and KEGG enrichment analysis showed 124 related pathway enrichments. Molecular docking showed that the active components of XJD (β-sitosterol, kaempferol, formononetin, quercetin, and luteolin) showed good binding activities to five of the six hub gene targets. Discussion. The active ingredients of XJD (β-sitosterol, kaempferol, formononetin, quercetin, and luteolin) may regulate the inflammatory and oxidative stress-related pathways of colon cells during the course of UC by binding to the hub gene targets. This may be a potential mechanism of XJD in the treatment of UC.

Advances in Experimental and Clinical Research of the Gouty Arthritis Treatment with Traditional Chinese Medicine

Gouty arthritis (GA) is a multifactorial disease whose pathogenesis is utterly complex, and the current clinical treatment methods cannot wholly prevent GA development. Western medicine is the primary treatment strategy for gouty arthritis, but it owns an unfavorable prognosis. Therefore, the prevention and treatment of GA are essential. In China, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been adopted for GA prevention and treatment for thousands of years. Gout patients are usually treated with TCM according to their different conditions, and long-term results can be achieved by improving their physical condition. And TCM has been proved to be an effective method to treat gout in modern China. Nevertheless, the pharmacological mechanism of TCM for gout is still unclear, which limits its spread. The theory of prevention and treatment of gout with TCM is more well acknowledged in China than in abroad. In this article, Chinese herbs and ancient formula for gout were summarized first. A total of more than 570 studies published from 2004 to June 2021 in PubMed, Medline, CNKI, VIP, Web of Science databases and Chinese Pharmacopoeia and traditional Chinese books were searched; the current status of TCM in the treatment of GA was summarized from the following aspects: articular chondrocyte apoptosis inhibition, antioxidative stress response, inflammatory cytokine levels regulation, uric acid excretion promotion, immune function regulation, uric acid reduction, and intestinal flora improvement in subjects with gout. The literature review concluded that TCM has a specific curative effect on the prevention and treatment of GA, particularly when combined with modern medical approaches. However, lacking a uniform definition of GA syndrome differentiation and the support of evidence-based medicine in clinical practice have provoked considerable concern in previous studies, which needs to be addressed in future research.

Discovery of the signal pathways and major bioactive compounds responsible for the anti-hypoxia effect of Chinese cordyceps

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Hypoxia will cause an increase in the rate of fatigue and aging. Chinese cordyceps, a parasitic Thitarodes insect-Ophiocordyceps sinensis fungus complex in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, has long been used to ameliorate human conditions associated with aging and senescence, it is principally applied to treat fatigue, night sweating and other symptoms related to aging, and it may play the anti-aging and anti-fatigue effect by improving the body's hypoxia tolerance.

AIMS OF THE STUDY

The present study investigated the anti-hypoxia activity of Chinese cordyceps and explore the main corresponding signal pathways and bioactive compounds.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this study, network pharmacology analysis, molecular docking, cell and whole pharmacodynamic experiments were hired to study the major signal pathways and the bioactive compounds of Chinese cordyceps for anti-hypoxia activity.

RESULTS

17 pathways which Chinese cordyceps acted on seemed to be related to the anti-hypoxia effect, and "VEGF signal pathway" was one of the most important pathway. Chinese cordyceps improved the survival rate and regulated the targets related VEGF signal pathway of H9C2 cells under hypoxia, and also had significant anti-hypoxia effects to mice. Chorioallantoic membrane model experiment showed that Chinese cordyceps and the main constituents of (9Z,12Z)-octadeca-9,12-dienoic acid and cerevisterol had significant angiogenic activity in hypoxia condition.

CONCLUSION

Based on the results of network pharmacology and molecular docking analysis, cell and whole pharmacodynamic experiments, promoting angiogenesis by regulating VEGF signal pathway might be one of the mechanisms of anti-hypoxia effect of Chinese cordyceps, (9Z, 12Z)-octadeca-9,12-dienoic acid and cerevisterol were considered as the major anti-hypoxia bioactive compounds in Chinese cordyceps.

Uncovering the Mechanisms and Molecular Targets of Weibing Formula 1 against Gastritis: Coupling Network Pharmacology with GEO Database

Weibing Formula 1, a classic traditional formula, has been widely used clinically to treat gastritis in recent years. However, the potential pharmacological mechanism of Weibing Formula 1 is still unclear to date. A network pharmacology-based strategy was performed to uncover the underlying mechanisms of Weibing Formula 1 against gastritis. Furthermore, we structured the drug-active ingredients-genes-disease network and PPI network of shared targets, and function enrichment analysis of these targets was carried out. Ultimately, Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) datasets and real-time quantitative PCR were used to verify the related genes. We found 251 potential targets corresponding to 135 bioactive components of Weibing Formula 1. Then, 327 gastritis-related targets were known gastritis-related targets. Among which, 60 common targets were shared between potential targets of Weibing Formula 1 and known gastritis-related targets. The results of pathway enrichment analysis displayed that 60 common targets mostly participated in various pathways related to Toll-like receptor signaling pathway, MAPK signaling pathway, cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction pathway, chemokine signaling pathway, and apoptosis. Based on the GSE60427 dataset, 15 common genes were shared between differentially expressed genes and 60 candidate targets. The verification results of the GSE5081 dataset showed that except for DUOX2 and VCAM1, the other 13 genes were significantly upregulated in gastritis, which was consistent with the results in the GSE60427 dataset. More importantly, real-time quantitative PCR results showed that the expressions of PTGS2, MMP9, CXCL2, and CXCL8 were significantly upregulated and NOS2, EGFR, and IL-10 were downregulated in gastritis patients, while the expressions of PTGS2, MMP9, CXCL2, and CXCL8 were significantly downregulated and NOS2, EGFR, and IL-10 were upregulated after the treatment of Weibing Formula 1. PTGS2, NOS2, EGFR, MMP9, CXCL2, CXCL8, and IL-10 may be the important direct targets of Weibing Formula 1 in gastritis treatment. Our study revealed the mechanism of Weibing Formula 1 in gastritis from an overall and systematic perspective, providing a theoretical basis for further knowing and application of this formula in the future.

Effect of Berberine on Hyperuricemia and Kidney Injury: A Network Pharmacology Analysis and Experimental Validation in a Mouse Model

Purpose

Berberine (BBR) is an active component of Phellodendri Cortex (PC), which is a traditional Chinese medicine that has been prescribed clinically for hyperuricemia (HUA) for hundreds of years. Many studies reported the anti-inflammatory and nephroprotective properties of BBR and PC; however, the therapeutic effects of BBR on HUA have not been explored. This study aims to investigate the efficacy and mechanism of BBR for treating HUA.

Methods

The mechanism of BBR in the treatment of HUA were predicted by network pharmacology. A mouse model of HUA established by potassium oxonate and hypoxanthine was used to verify the prediction. The levels of serum uric acid (UA), urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine (CRE) were determined by biochemical test kits. Hematoxylin and eosin staining of kidney tissues was used to observe the kidney damage. ELISA kits were applied to detect the levels of interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-18 in serum and kidney tissues. Quantitative real-time PCR and Western blotting were adopted to analyze the expression of NLRP3, ASC, Caspase1, IL-1β and URAT1. The expressions of URAT1 in the kidney tubules were visualized by immunohistochemical staining. Molecular docking was used to assess the interaction between URAT1 and BBR.

Results

The network pharmacology screened out 82 genes and several inflammation-related signaling pathways related to the anti-hyperuricemia effect of BBR. In the in vivo experiment, BBR substantially decreased the level of UA, BUN and CRE, and alleviated the kidney damage in mice with HUA. BBR reduced IL-1β and IL-18, and downregulated expressions of NLRP3, ASC, Caspase1 and IL-1β. BBR also inhibited expression of URAT1 and exhibited strong affinity with this target in silico docking.

Conclusion

BBR exerts anti-HUA and nephroprotective effects via inhibiting activation of NLRP3 inflammasome and correcting the aberrant expression of URAT1 in kidney. BBR might be a novel therapeutic agent for treating HUA.

Systems pharmacology dissection of action mechanisms for herbs in osteoporosis treatment

Objective

Osteoporosis has become the biggest cause of non-fatal health issue. Currently, the limitations of traditional anti-osteoporosis drugs such as long-term ill-effects and drug resistance, have raised concerns toward complementary and alternative therapies, particularly herbal medicines and their natural active compounds. Thus, this study aimed to provide an integrative analysis of active chemicals, drug targets and interacting pathways of the herbs for osteoporosis treatment.

Methods

Here, we introduced a systematic pharmacology model, combining the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) screening model, drug targeting and network pharmacology, to probe into the therapeutic mechanisms of herbs in osteoporosis.

Results

We obtained 86 natural compounds with favorable pharmacokinetic profiles and their 58 targets from seven osteoporosis-related herbs. Network analysis revealed that they probably synergistically work through multiple mechanisms, such as suppressing inflammatory response, maintaining bone metabolism or improving organism immunity, to benefit patients with osteoporosis. Furthermore, experimental results showed that all the five compounds (calycosin, asperosaponin VI, hederagenin, betulinic acid and luteolin) enhanced osteoblast proliferation and differentiation in vitro, which corroborated the validity of this system pharmacology approach. Notably, gentisin and aureusidin among the identified compounds were first predicted to be associated with osteoporosis.

Conclusion

Herbs and their natural compounds, being characterized as the classical combination therapies, might be engaged in multiple mechanisms to coordinately improve the osteoporosis symptoms. This work may contribute to offer novel strategies and clues for the therapy and drug discovery of osteoporosis and other complex diseases.

Systematic exploration of Astragalus membranaceus and Panax ginseng as immune regulators: Insights from the comparative biological and computational analysis

BACKGROUND

Immune system plays a decisive role for defending various pathogenic microorganisms. Astragalus membranaceus (AM) and Panax ginseng (PG) are two tonic herbs used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) as immune booster and help to control diseases with their healthy synergistic effect on immune system.

PURPOSE

This study was aimed to investigate the promote effect and molecular mechanisms of AM and PG on immune system as booster and to control the target diseases using animal and computational systematic study.

METHODS

Computational models including absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination (ADME) with weighted ensemble similarity (WES) algorithm-based models and ClueGo network analysis were used to find the potential bioactive compounds targets and pathways, which were responsible for immune regulation. Viscera index analysis, proliferation activity of splenic lymphocytes and cytotoxic activity of NK cells assays were performed to validate the effect of AM and PG on immune system of long-term administrated mice. Metabonomic study of mice plasma was conducted to investigate effect of AM and PG on the endogenous metabolic perturbations, together with correlation analysis.

RESULTS

AM and PG simultaneously showed the ability to strengthen the immune system function including enhancement of spleen and thymus index, proliferation of splenic lymphocytes and cytotoxic activity of NK cells. Besides, the different molecular mechanisms of AM and PG on immune regulation were also investigated by analyzing the potential bioactive compounds, enzymes actions and pathways. Quercetin, formononetin and kaempferol were the main immune-related compounds in AM, while ginsenoside Ra1, ginsenoside Rh1 and kaempferol in PG. About 10 target proteins were found close to immune regulation, including acetylcholinesterase (ACHE, common target in AM and PG), sphingosine kinase 1(SPHK1), cytidine deaminase (CDA), and Choline O-acetyltransferase (CHAT). Glycerophospholipid metabolism was regulated in both AM and PG groups. Pyrimidine metabolism and sphingolipid metabolism were considered as the special pathway in AM groups. Energy metabolism and glycerolipid metabolism were the special pathways in PG groups.

CONCLUSION

A novel comprehensive molecular mechanism analysis method was established and applied to clarify the scientific connotation of AM and PG as immune regulation, with similar herbal tonic effect provided in clinical practice of TCM, which can provide a new line of research for drug development (immune booster) using AM and PG.

Modified Simiaowan prevents articular cartilage injury in experimental gouty arthritis by negative regulation of STAT3 pathway

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Modified Simiaowan (MSW) is a traditional Chinese medicine formula that is composed of six herbs. It has been widely used in the treatment of gouty arthritis.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study was designed to investigate the effect of MSW on gouty arthritis and explore the possible mechanisms.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The rat gouty arthritis model was established by intra-articular injection of Monosodium Urate (MSU) crystal, and then treated with MSW for 5 days. The perimeter of the knee joints was measured in a time-dependent manner and serum samples were collected for the detection of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 protein levels by ELISA. The protein expressions of MMP-3, TIMP-3, STAT3, and p-STAT3 in cartilage tissues and C28/I2 cells were detected by Western blot, and the levels of proteoglycan in primary chondrocytes and cartilage tissues were determined by toluidine blue staining. In addition, AG490 and IL-6 were used in vitro to explore the function of IL-6/STAT3 pathway in the protective effect of MSU.

RESULTS

MSW reduced the joint swelling rate in gouty arthritis model and inhibited MSU induced up-regulation of IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6 protein levels in serum and synovial fluid. IL-1β induced an increase in p-STAT3 and MMP-3 protein expression in C28/I2 cells, as well as a decrease in TIMP-3. MSW serum inhibited the protein expression changes induced by IL-1β in vitro. Furthermore, inhibition of STAT3 signaling negated the effect of MSW serum on p-STAT3, MMP-3, and TIMP-3 protein levels in C28/I2 cells. MSW also increased the content of proteoglycan significantly both in vivo and in vitro.

CONCLUSION

Our data indicated that MSW protected rats from MSU-induced experimental gouty arthritis and IL-1β/IL-6/STAT3 pathway played an essential role in the protective effect of MSU against GA.

Experimental evidence and network pharmacology-based analysis reveal the molecular mechanism of Tongxinluo capsule administered in coronary heart diseases

BACKGROUND

Tongxinluo (TXL) capsule, a polypharmacy derived from traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), has been widely used in coronary heart disease (CHD), while the underlying mechanism of TXL capsule is still unclear. The present study aimed at investigating the underlying mechanism of TXL acting on CHD patients and providing substantial evidence in molecular evidence by means of a network pharmacological analysis.

METHOD

Active compounds and targeted genes of TXL were retrieved from TCM systems pharmacology (TCMSP) and TCM integrative database (TCMID). CHD and coronary artery disease were treated as search queries in GeneCards and Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM) databases to obtain disease-related genes. Visualization of disease-targets network was performed under administration of Cytoscape software. Besides, Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses were administered. H9c2 cells were used to validate the predicted results in cardiomyocytes/reoxygenation model, and anti-inflammatory ability was examined.

RESULTS

A network of a total of 212 nodes and 1016 edges was obtained. Peptide and ubiquitin-like protein ligase binding occupied a leading position of GO enrichment. For KEGG analysis, fluid shear stress and atherosclerosis, as well as inflammation-related pathways were enriched. Cellular validation revealed the anti-inflammatory effect of β-sitosterol, eriodictyol, odoricarpin, and tirucallol as active compounds of TXL.

CONCLUSION

Our study provided substantial molecular evidence that TXL capsule possessed the characteristics of multitargets with safe profile, and the main component is capable of regulating cytokine level in CHD patients.

Utilizing network pharmacology and molecular docking to explore the underlying mechanism of Guizhi Fuling Wan in treating endometriosis

Background

Guizhi Fuling Wan (GZFLW) is a widely used classical Chinese herbal formulae prescribed for the treatment of endometriosis (EMs). This study aimed to predict the key targets and mechanisms of GZFLW in the treatment of EMs by network pharmacology and molecular docking.

Methods

Firstly, related compounds and targets of GZFLW were identified through the TCMSP, BATMAN-TCM and CASC database. Then, the EMs target database was built by GeneCards. The overlapping targets between GZFLW and EMs were screened out, and then data of the PPI network was obtained by the STRING Database to analyze the interrelationship of these targets. Furthermore, a topological analysis was performed to screen the hub targets. After that, molecular docking technology was used to confirm the binding degree of the main active compounds and hub targets. Finally, the DAVID database and Metascape database were used for GO and KEGG enrichment analysis.

Results

A total of 89 GZFLW compounds and 284 targets were collected. One hundred one matching targets were picked out as the correlative targets of GZFLW in treating EMs. Among these, 25 significant hub targets were recognized by the PPI network. Coincidently, molecular docking simulation indicated that the hub targets had a good bonding activity with most active compounds (69.71%). Furthermore, 116 items, including the inflammatory reaction, RNA polymerase, DNA transcription, growth factor activity, and steroid-binding, were selected by GO enrichment analysis. Moreover, the KEGG enrichment analysis results included 100 pathways focused on the AGE-RAGE pathway, HIF pathway, PI3K Akt pathway, MAPK pathway, and TP53 pathway, which exposed the potential mechanisms of GZFLW in treating EMs. Also, the MTT colorimetric assay indicated that the cell proliferation could be inhibited by GZFLW. Compared with the control group, the protein levels of P53, BAX, and caspase3 in the drug groups were all increased in Western blotting results. The results of flow cytometry showed that the percentage of apoptotic cells in the GZFLW group was significantly higher than that in the control group.

Conclusion

Through the exploration of network pharmacology and molecular docking technology, GZFLW has a therapeutic effect on EMs through multi-target mechanism. This study provided a good foundation for further experimental research.

The Effect of Berberine, a Drug From Chinese Folk Medicine, on Serum and Urinary Uric Acid Levels in Rats With Hyperuricemia

Background

The principal manifestation of hyperuricemia is gout. Many drugs are in use nowadays to treat gout, but they are linked with multiple side effects. The present study observed berberine (from Chinese folk medicine) on serum and urinary uric acid levels in rats with potassium oxonate-induced hyperuricemia.

Materials and methods

Thirty-six adult healthy female Sprague Dawley rats were randomly divided into six groups of six rats each. To induce hyperuricemia, all the groups except Group A were given potassium oxonate (250 mg/kg) intraperitoneally on days 1, 3, and 7. Group A, the normal control group, was given normal saline for seven consecutive days intraperitoneally. Group C was administered allopurinol (5 mg/kg body weight) intraperitoneally, and Group D, E, and F were given berberine in doses of 0.75 mg/kg, 1.25 mg/kg, and 2.5 mg/kg body weight respectively intraperitoneally for seven consecutive days, one hour after the potassium oxonate injection. On zero, first, third, and seventh day of the experiment, blood and urine samples were taken to estimate the serum and urinary uric acid levels. On days zero and 7, serum uric acid was measured by cardiac puncture, while on days 1 and 3, it was measured by the tail prick method. The uric acid was measured by an enzymatic colorimetric method and creatinine by the Jaffe method. Fractional excretion of urate was also calculated.

Results

Berberine lowered serum uric acid levels in rats with potassium oxonate-induced hyperuricemia with highly significant results (p-value <0.001) in all three dosages. Berberine increased the urinary uric acid level and the fractional excretion of urate in a time-dependent manner in all three dosages. This effect was maximally shown by low dose berberine with a highly significant result (p-value <0.001).

Conclusion

Berberine successfully decreased the serum uric acid level of hyperuricemic rats by increasing the urinary uric acid level and fractional excretion of urate.

Exploring the Potential Mechanism of Guchang Zhixie Wan for Treating Ulcerative Colitis by Comprehensive Network Pharmacological Approaches and Molecular Docking Validation as Well as Cell Experiments

Guchang Zhixie Wan (GZW) is a commonly used Chinese medicine for the treatment of ulcerative colitis (UC). This research explored the potential pharmacological mechanism of GZW in UC. The active ingredients, potential targets, and UC-related genes of GZW were retrieved from public databases. The pharmacological mechanisms including key components, potential targets and signal pathways were determined through bioinformatics analysis. The results of this study were verified through virtual molecular docking and cell experiments. Network analysis revealed that 26 active GZW compounds and 148 potential GZW target proteins were associated with UC. Quercetin, kaempferol and β-sitosterol were identified as the core active ingredients of GZW. IFNG, IL-1A, IL-1B, JUN, RELA, and STAT1 were indicated as key targets of GZW. These key targets have a strong affinity for quercetin, kaempferol, and β-sitosterol. GO and KEGG enrichment analysis showed that GZW target proteins are highly enriched in inflammatory, immune, and oxidative stress-related pathways. This study confirmed the therapeutic effect and revealed potential molecular mechanism of GZW on UC. And the protective effects of GZW on inflammatory bowel disease pathway were also revealed through STAT3/NF-κB/IL-6 pathway. The findings of this study enhanced our understanding of GZW in the treatment of UC and provided a feasible method for discovering potential drugs from traditional Chinese medicine formulations.

Predication of the underlying mechanism of Bushenhuoxue formula acting on knee osteoarthritis via network pharmacology-based analyses combined with experimental validation

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is the most common chronic joint disorder worldwide, which is also a principle consideration for disability. The Bushenhuoxue formula (BSHXF) is a traditional herbal formula which widely applied to the treatment of KOA. However, its pharmacological mechanisms of action have not been clarified.

AIMS OF THE STUDY

The study aimed to identify the potential targets and mechanisms of BSHXF in the treatment of KOA through pharmacology-based analyses and experimental validation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The TCMSP database was applied to obtain the chemical compounds and targets of BSHXF, while the protein targets in KOA were determined through GeneCards and OMIM databases. The herb-compound-target and protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks were constructed for topological analyses and hub-targets screening. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses were performed on these core nodes to identify the critical biological processes and signaling pathways. Then destabilization of medial meniscus (DMM)-induced C57BL/6J mice model was established to detect the level of apoptosis via TUNEL assessment, while the expressions of CASP3, CASP8 and CASP9 were determined by immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

A total of 154 active compounds and 58 targets were predicted. DAVID, ClueGO and Metascape enrichment analyses all proved that BSHXF plays an essential role in regulating apoptosis. Moreover, 3 central nodes of BSHXF are recognized as the active factors involved in the main biological functions, suggesting a potential mechanism of BSHXF for KOA treatment. In vivo experiment revealed that BSHXF significantly inhibited apoptosis and down-regulated the expressions of CASP3, CASP8 and CASP9.

CONCLUSION

Based on network pharmacology and experimental validation, our study indicated that BSHXF exerted anti-apoptosis effect through inhibiting the expressions of CASP3, CASP8 and CASP9, which could be considered as an effective method for KOA treatment.

Network pharmacology analysis of the therapeutic mechanisms of the traditional Chinese herbal formula Lian Hua Qing Wen in Corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19), gives fundamental support to the clinical use of LHQW

BACKGROUND

The traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) herbal formula Lian Hua Qing Wen (LHQW) improves the results of COVID-19 treatment. Three very recent studies analyzed with network pharmacology some working mechanisms of LHQW. However, we used more techniques and also included Angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) (a SARS-CoV receptor, possibly the viral entry point in alveolar lung cells) and the immune system, as cytokine storm is essential in the late phase.

PURPOSE

Extensive detailed Network Pharmacology analysis of the LHQW- treatment mechanism in COVID-19.

METHODS

TCM-herb-meridian and protein interaction network (PIN) of LHQW, based on LHQW herbs meridian information and the protein-protein interaction (PPI) information of the LHQW-component targets. Hub and topological property analyses to obtain crucial targets and construct the crucial LHQW-PIN. Functional modules determination using MCODE, GO and KEGG pathway analysis of biological processes and pathway enrichment. Intersection calculations between the LHQW-proteins and ACE2 co-expression-proteins.

RESULTS

LHQW herbs have relationships to Stomach-, Heart-, Liver- and Spleen-systems, but most (10 of the 13 herbs) to the Lung system, indicating specific effects in lung diseases. The crucial LHQW PIN has the scale-free property, contains 2,480 targets, 160,266 PPIs and thirty functional modules. Six modules are enriched in leukocyte-mediated immunity, the interferon-gamma-mediated signaling pathway, immune response regulating signaling pathway, interleukin 23 mediated signaling pathway and Fc gamma receptor-mediated phagocytosis (GO analysis). These 6 are also enriched in cancer, immune system-, and viral infection diseases (KEGG). LHQW shared 189 proteins with ACE2 co-expression proteins.

CONCLUSIONS

Detailed network analysis shows, that LHQW herbal TCM treatment modulates the inflammatory process, exerts antiviral effects and repairs lung injury. Moreover, it also relieves the "cytokine storm" and improves ACE2-expression-disorder-caused symptoms. These innovative findings give a rational pharmacological basis and support for treating COVID-19 and possibly other diseases with LHQW.

Chinese Medicine Huzhen Tongfeng Formula Effectively Attenuates Gouty Arthritis by Inhibiting Arachidonic Acid Metabolism and Inflammatory Mediators

The Chinese herbal medicine, Huzhen Tongfeng Formula (HZTF), derived from traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practice, has recognized therapeutic benefits for gouty arthritis (GA). HZTF is currently in the late stage of approval process as a new anti-GA drug application. However, the underlying mechanism of HZTF as an antigout medication is unclear. In this study, we combined network pharmacology and experimental validation approaches to elucidate the mechanism of action of HZTF. First, the relative drug-disease target networks were constructed and analyzed for pathway enrichment. Potential pathways were then validated by in vitro and in vivo experiments. We found that 34 compounds from HZTF matched 181 potential drug targets. Topology analysis revealed 77 core targets of HZTF, which were highly related to gout, following screening of KEGG pathway enrichment. Further analysis demonstrated that the arachidonic acid metabolic pathway was the most relevant pathway involved in the mechanism of HZTF. Validation experiments showed that HZTF significantly inhibited the inflammatory cell infiltration into gouty joints, improved the swelling of affected joints, and increased the pain threshold. HZTF significantly reduced the transcription and production of various cytokines and inflammatory mediators in vitro. In particular, cyclooxygenase (COX)-1, COX-2, and 5-lipoxygenase were simultaneously downregulated. In conclusion, our study suggests that the antigout mechanism of HZTF is associated with the inhibition of the arachidonic acid pathway, resulting in the suppression of inflammatory cytokines and mediators. These findings extend our understanding of the pharmacological action of HZTF, rationalizing the application HZTF as an effective herbal therapy for GA.

Identification of the significant pathways of Banxia Houpu decoction in the treatment of depression based on network pharmacology

Banxia Houpu decoction (BXHPD) has been used to treat depression in clinical practice for centuries. However, the pharmacological mechanisms of BXHPD still remain unclear. Network Pharmacology (NP) approach was used to explore the potential molecular mechanisms of BXHPD in treating depression. Potential active compounds of BXHPD were obtained from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform Database. STRING database was used to build a interaction network between the active compounds and target genes associated with depression. The topological features of nodes were visualized and calculated. Significant pathways and biological functions were identified using Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analyses. A total of 44 active compounds were obtained from BXHPD, and 121 potential target genes were considered to be therapeutically relevant. Pathway analysis indicated that MAPK signaling pathway, ErbB signaling pathway, HIF-1 signaling pathway and PI3K-Akt pathway were significant pathways in depression. They were mainly involved in promoting nerve growth and nutrition and alleviating neuroinflammatory conditions. The result provided some potential ways for modern medicine in the treatment of depression.

Identification of the Active Constituents and Significant Pathways of Guizhi-Shaoyao-Zhimu Decoction for the Treatment of Diabetes Mellitus Based on Molecular Docking and Network Pharmacology

AIM AND OBJECTIVE

This study was designed to explore the active compounds and significant pathways of Guizhi-Shaoyao-Zhimu decoction (GSZD) for treating diabetes mellitus using molecular docking combined with network pharmacology.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Chemical constituents of GSZD and diabetes-related target proteins were collected from various databases. Then, compounds were filtered by Lipinski's and Veber's rules with Discovery studio software. The "Libdock" module was used to carry out molecular docking, and LibDockScores, default cutoff values for hydrogen bonds, and van der Waals interactions were recorded. LibDockScore of the target protein and its prototype ligand was considered as the threshold, and compounds with higher LibDockScores than the threshold were regarded as the active constituents of GSZD. Cytoscape software was used to construct the herb-active molecule-target interaction network of GSZD. ClueGO and CluePedia were applied to enrich the analysis of the biological functions and pathways of GSZD.

RESULTS

A total of 275 potential active compounds with 57 possible pathways in GSZD were identified by molecular docking combined with network pharmacology. TEN, INSR, PRKAA2, and GSK3B are the four most important target proteins. Gancaonin E, 3'-(γ,γ-dimethylallyl)-kievitone, aurantiamide, curcumin and 14-O-cinnamoylneoline, could interact with more than 14 of the selected target proteins. Besides, 57 potential pathways of GSZD were identified, such as insulin signaling pathway, metabolites and energy regulation, glucose metabolic process regulation, and positive regulation of carbohydrate metabolic process, etc. Conclusion: These results showed that molecular docking combined with network pharmacology is a feasible strategy for exploring bioactive compounds and mechanisms of Chinese medicines, and GSZD can be used to effectively treat diabetes through multi-components and multi-targets & pathways.

A Network Pharmacology Analysis of the Active Components of the Traditional Chinese Medicine Zuojinwan in Patients with Gastric Cancer

BACKGROUND Zuojinwan (ZJW) is a traditional Chinese prescription normally used for gastritis. Several studies indicated that it could fight against gastric cancer. This study was designed to determine the potential pharmacological mechanism of ZJW in the treatment of gastric cancer. MATERIAL AND METHODS Bioactive compounds and potential targets of ZJW and related genes of gastric cancer were retrieved from public databases. Pharmacological mechanisms including crucial ingredients, potential targets, and signaling pathways were determined using protein-protein interaction (PPI) and Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses. Virtual docking was performed to validate the findings. RESULTS Network analysis identified 47 active ZJW compounds, and 48 potential ZJW target genes linked to gastric cancer. Quercetin, beta-sitosterol, isorhamnetin, wogonin, and baicalein were identified as potential candidate agents. Our PPI analysis results combined with previously published results indicated that matrix metalloproteinases family members MMP9, MMP1, and MMP3 may play key roles in the anti-gastric cancer effect of ZJW. Molecular docking analysis showed that these crucial targets had good affinity for the representative components in ZJW. GO and KEGG enrichment analysis showed that ZJW target genes functioned in multiple pathways for treating gastric cancer, including interleukin-17 signaling and platinum drug resistance. CONCLUSIONS Our results illuminate the active ingredients, associated targets, biological processes, and signaling pathways of ZJW in the treatment of gastric cancer. This study enhances our understanding of the potential effects of ZJW in gastric cancer and demonstrates a feasible method for discovering potential drugs from Chinese medicinal formulas.

Can network pharmacology identify the anti-virus and anti- inflammatory activities of Shuanghuanglian oral liquid used in Chinese medicine for respiratory tract infection?

Introduction

Shuanghuanglian (SHL) oral liquid is a well-known traditional Chinese medicine preparation administered for respiratory tract infections in China. However, the underlying pharmacological mechanisms remain unclear. The present study aims to determine the potential pharmacological mechanisms of SHL oral liquid based on network pharmacology.

Methods

A network pharmacology-based strategy including collection and analysis of putative compounds and target genes, network construction, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway, and Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment, identification of key compounds and target genes, and molecule docking was performed in this study.

Results

A total of 82 bioactive compounds and 226 putative target genes of SHL oral liquid were collected. Of note, 28 hub target genes including 4 major hub target genes: estrogen receptor 1 (ESR1), nuclear receptor coactivator 2 (NCOA2), nuclear receptor coactivator 1 (NCOA1), androgen receptor (AR) and 5 key compounds (quercetin, luteolin, baicalein, kaempferol and wogonin) were identified based on network analysis. The hub target genes mainly enriched in pathways including PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, human cytomegalovirus infection, and human papillomavirus infection, which could be the underlying pharmacological mechanisms of SHL oral liquid for treating diseases. Moreover, the key compounds had great molecule docking binding affinity with the major hub target genes.

Conclusion

Using network pharmacology analysis, SHL oral liquid was found to contain anti-virus, anti-inflammatory, and “multi-compounds and multi-targets” with therapeutic actions. These findings may provide a valuable direction for further clinical application and research.

Effects and Mechanisms of Dendrobium officinalis Six Nostrum for Treatment of Hyperuricemia with Hyperlipidemia

Objectives. Hyperuricemia (HUA) is a disease caused by increased production of uric acid (UA) or reduced excretion of UA in the body. Results of an epidemiological survey show that 60% of patients with HUA have hyperlipidemia (HPA). Dendrobium officinalis (DOF) six nostrum (DOS) is based on the theory of traditional Chinese medicine for the transformation of the traditional Chinese nostrum Si Miao Wan. In this article, we aim to discuss the efficacy and mechanism of DOS in reducing UA and regulating lipid metabolism. The rat model of HUA with HPA was induced by potassium oxonate (PO) combined with high-fat sorghum feed. We monitored the serum UA and blood lipids. Liver xanthine oxidase (XOD), adenosine deaminase (ADA), lipoprotein lipase (LPL), and fatty acid-binding protein (FABP1) activities were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) after the last administration of DOS. We performed a histopathological examination of rat kidney and intestine. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was used to detect the expression of renal inflammatory proteins NLRP3 / Caspase-1 and intestinal inflammatory proteins TLR4 / NLRP3. We used western blot for measurement of liver hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyl transferase (HPRT1) protein expression and renal PDZ domain protein kidney 1 (PDZK1) protein expression. DOS administration significantly reduced serum UA, total cholesterol (TC), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c) level, and improved liver steatosis in the model rat. At the same time, DOS treatment effectively inhibited liver XOD and ADA, increased the level of liver HPRT1, and reduced the production of UA. Additional studies had shown that DOS can restore normal UA excretion function in the intestine and kidney and regulated liver lipids metabolism. IHC and histopathological sections showed that DOS reduced the level of kidney, intestinal inflammatory body (NLRP3, Caspase-1, and TLR4), improved inflammation of the kidney and intestinal tract in rats. DOS is a promising drug that can effectively reduce serum UA and lipid level in the model rat. The mechanism of action may be related to inhibition of UA production, promotion of UA excretion, regulation of lipids metabolism, and anti-inflammatory response.

Integrated network pharmacology analysis and serum metabolomics to reveal the cognitive improvement effect of Bushen Tiansui formula on Alzheimer's disease

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Bushen Tiansui Formula (BSTSF) is a traditional Chinese medicine formula used clinically to treat Alzheimer's disease (AD) for many years. Previously, we have partially elucidated the mechanisms involved in the therapeutic effects of BSTSF on AD. However, the underlying mechanisms remain largely unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The aim of this study was to further investigate the therapeutic effects of BSTSF on AD using an integrated strategy of network pharmacology and serum metabolomics.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The rat models of AD were established using Aβ 1-42 injection, and morris water maze test was used to evaluate the efficacy of BSTSF on AD. Next, network pharmacology analysis was applied to identify the active compounds and target genes, which might be responsible for the effect of BSTSF. Then, a metabolomics strategy has been developed to find the possible significant serum metabolites and metabolic pathway induced by BSTSF. Additionally, two parts of the results were integrated to confirm each other.

RESULTS

The results of the network pharmacology analysis showed 37 compounds and 64 potential target genes related to the treatment of AD with BSTSF. The functional enrichment analysis indicated that the potential mechanism was mainly associated with the tumor necrosis factor signaling pathway and phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase/protein kinase B signaling pathway. Based on metabolomics, 78 differential endogenous metabolites were identified as potential biomarkers related to the BSTSF for treating AD. These metabolites were mainly involved in the relevant pathways of linoleic acid metabolism, α-linolenic acid metabolism, glycerophospholipid metabolism, tryptophan metabolism, and arginine and proline metabolism. These findings were partly consistent with the findings of the network pharmacology analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, our results solidly supported and enhanced out current understanding of the therapeutic effects of BSTSF on AD. Meanwhile, our work revealed that the proposed network pharmacology-integrated metabolomics strategy was a powerful means for identifying active components and mechanisms contributing to the pharmacological effects of traditional Chinese medicine.

Network Pharmacology of Yougui Pill Combined with Buzhong Yiqi Decoction for the Treatment of Sexual Dysfunction

Purpose

We aimed to find the possible key targets of Yougui pill and Buzhong Yiqi decoction for the treatment of sexual dysfunction.

Materials and Methods

The composition of Yougui pill combined with Buzhong Yiqi decoction was obtained, and its effective components of medicine were screened using ADME; the component target proteins were predicted and screened based on the TCMSP and BATMAN databases. Target proteins were cross-validated using the CTD database. We performed gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses for target proteins using the Cytoscape plugin ClueGO + CluePedia and the R package clusterProfiler, respectively. Subsequently, protein-protein interaction (PPI) analyses were conducted using the STRING database. Finally, a pharmacological network was constructed.

Results

The pharmacological network contained 89 nodes and 176 relation pairs. Among these nodes, there were 12 for herbal medicines (orange peel, licorice, Eucommia, Aconite, Astragalus, Chinese wolfberry, yam, dodder seed, ginseng, Cornus officinalis, Rehmannia, and Angelica), 9 for chemical components (18-beta-glycyrrhetinic acid, carvacrol, glycyrrhetinic acid, higenamine, nobilin, quercetin, stigmasterol, synephrine, and thymol), 62 for target proteins (e.g., NR3C1, ESR1, PTGS2, CAT, TNF, INS, and TP53), and 6 for pathways (MAPK signaling pathway, proteoglycans in cancer, dopaminergic synapse, thyroid hormone signaling pathway, cAMP signaling pathway, and neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction).

Conclusion

NR3C1, ESR1, PTGS2, CAT, TNF, INS, and TP53 may be important targets for the key active elements in the decoction combining Yougui pill and Buzhong Yiqi. Furthermore, these target proteins are relevant to the treatment of sexual dysfunction, probably via pathways associated with cancer and signal transduction.

Chemical constituents and synergistic anti-gout studies on Eurycoma longifolia and potential mechanisms evaluation based on systemic analysis approach

37 compounds mainly including triterpenoids with the quassinoid skeleton and β-carboline alkaloids have been isolated from the roots of Eurycoma longifolia Jack (EL), which has been used as traditional medicine for a long history. It has been demonstrated that the total extracts from EL could significantly inhibit the joint swelling in MSU-induced acute gout arthritis rat model at middle and high doses (P < 0.05, P < 0.01), as meanwhile, better performance than that of positive control (P < 0.05, P < 0.01) has been observed at the dose of 10 g/kg. Aiming to search potential compounds and probable mechanisms, network pharmacology, molecular docking and Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis were adopted, leading to the hypothesis of 17 targets related to different pathogenesis of gout and 5 potential compounds (C36, C107, C124, C125 and C130) among 156 selected compounds, playing synergetic role with multiple targets. Instead of the guiding ideology of "a gene, a drug, a disease", varieties of compounds but not a single one from EL display holistic performance through multiple pathways with multi-targets. It was noteworthy that Xanthine dehydrogenase/oxidase (XDH), Prostaglandin G/H synthase 2 (PTGS2), Fatty acid-binding protein, liver (FABP1), Purine nucleoside phosphorylase (PNP), and Peroxisome proliferator activated receptor alpha (PPARA) were the key targets with intensely interaction. Furthermore, the functional enrichment analysis indicated that EL probably produced the gout protection effects by synergistic regulation in multiple biological pathways, including Toll-like receptor signaling pathway, MAPK signaling pathway, and NOD-like receptor signaling pathway, etc.

Network Pharmacology Reveals the Molecular Mechanism of Cuyuxunxi Prescription in Promoting Wound Healing in Patients with Anal Fistula

Background

The healing process of the surgical wound of anal fistulotomy is much slower because of the presence of stool within the wound. Cuyuxunxi (CYXX) prescription is a Chinese herbal fumigant that is being used to wash surgical wound after anal fistulotomy. This study aimed at investigating the molecular mechanism of CYXX prescription using a network pharmacology-based strategy.

Materials and Methods

The active compounds in each herbal medicine were retrieved from the traditional Chinese medicine systems pharmacology (TCMSP) database and in Traditional Chinese Medicine Integrated Database (TCMID) analysis platform based on the criteria of oral bioavailability ≥40% and drug-likeness ≥0.2. The disease-related target genes were extracted from the Comparative Toxicogenomics Database. Protein-protein interaction network was built for the overlapped genes as well as functional enrichment analysis. Finally, an ingredient-target genes-pathway network was built by integrating all information.

Results

A total of 375 chemical ingredients of the 5 main herbal medicines in CYXX prescription were retrieved from TCMSP database and TCMID. Among the 375 chemical ingredients, 59 were active compounds. Besides, 325 target genes for 16 active compounds in 3 herbal medicines were obtained. Functional enrichment analysis revealed that these overlapped genes were significantly related with immune response, biosynthesis of antibiotics, and complement and coagulation cascades. A comprehensive network which contains 133 nodes (8 disease nodes, 3 drug nodes, 8 ingredients, 103 target gene nodes, 7 GO nodes, and 4 pathway nodes) was built.

Conclusion

The network built in this study might aid in understanding the action mechanism of CYXX prescription at molecular level to pathway level.

Constituents and Anti-Hyperuricemia Mechanism of Traditional Chinese Herbal Formulae Erding Granule

Erding granule (EDG) is a traditional Chinese medicine that has recently been identified as having anti-hypouricemic effects. However, the active components and underlying mechanism for this new indication have not been elucidated. Therefore, we compared the effects of different EDG extracts (water, 50% ethanol and 95% ethanol) on serum uric acid concentrations in the hyperuricemia model mouse. We also analyzed the constituents of different extracts by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography combined with electrospray ionization quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS) to observe the variation between the active and inactive products. Extract activity and target site were evaluated by assessing uric acid- and inflammation-suppressing effects along with evaluating ability to regulate the uric acid transporter. The results showed that the 50% ethanol extract (EDG-50) had an obvious serum uric acid concentration lowering effect compared with water (EDG-S) and the 95% ethanol extract (EDG-95). UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS analysis showed that EDG-50 was compositionally different to EDG-S and EDG-95. EDG-50 showed dose-dependent effects on reducing uric acid, suppressing inflammation and regulating uric acid transporters. Moreover, western blot analysis showed that EDG-50 down-regulated GLUT9 and URAT1 expression, and up-regulated OAT1 expression. Therefore, our findings enable the preliminarily conclusion that EDG-50 lowers serum uric acid concentrations, mainly by down-regulating the expression of GLUT9 and URAT1 proteins and up-regulating the expression of OAT1 proteins. This provides a research basis for clinical use of EDG as an anti-hyperuricemic agent.

Revealing synergistic mechanism of multiple components in Stauntonia brachyanthera Hand.-Mazz. for gout by virtual screening and system pharmacological approach

Stauntonia brachyanthera Hand.-Mazz. (SB), reported as a traditional Chinese medicine, displays a wide spectrum of interesting bioactivities, such as anti-inflammatory and analgesia. It is noteworthy that anti-gout effects of the components in SB have been reported. Hence, this study contributes to the prediction of promising active compounds and mechanisms for the treatment of gout. The active compounds with better oral bioavailability, and drug-likeness of SB were selected for further investigation by the approach of network pharmacology, molecular docking, gene ontology (GO) analysis, and Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis, respectively. A total of 34 predicted targets and 98 compounds in SB were obtained. Sorted by structure types of compounds, phenylethanoid glycosides exhibited the best anti-gout activity, followed by phenolics and flavonoids. What's more, it was shown in the network analysis that Serine/threonine-protein kinase mTOR (mTOR), Mitogen-activated protein kinase 12 (MAPK12), tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), Integrin alpha-4 (ITGA4) and Phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase catalytic subunit gamma (PIK3CG) were the key targets with intensely interaction, which should be attached more attention for further study. The functional enrichment analysis indicated that SB probably produced the anti-gout effects by synergistically regulating many biological pathways, such as MAPK signaling pathway, PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, Toll-like receptor signaling pathway and NOD-like receptor signaling pathway, etc. In addition, C61, C67, C68 and C81 might be promising leading compounds with good molecular docking score. As a consequence, the active constituents and mechanisms based on data analysis were holistically illuminated, which was of vital importance to the development of new drugs for gout.

Network Pharmacology in Research of Chinese Medicine Formula: Methodology, Application and Prospective

Chinese medicine (CM) is usually prescribed as CM formula to treat disease. The lack of effective research approach makes it difficult to elucidate the molecular mechanisms of CM formula owing to its complicated chemical compounds. Network pharmacology is increasingly applied in CM formula research in recent years, which is identified suitable for the study of CM formula. In this review, we summarized the methodology of network pharmacology, including network construction, network analysis and network verification. The aim of constructing a network is to achieve the interaction between the bioactive compounds and targets and the interaction between various targets, and then find out and validate the key nodes via network analysis and network verification. Besides, we reviewed the application in CM formula research, mainly including targets discovery, bioactive compounds screening, toxicity evaluation, mechanism research and quality control research. Finally, we proposed prospective in the future and limitations of network pharmacology, expecting to provide new strategy and thinking on study for CM formula.

Network Pharmacology Databases for Traditional Chinese Medicine: Review and Assessment

The research field of systems biology has greatly advanced and, as a result, the concept of network pharmacology has been developed. This advancement, in turn, has shifted the paradigm from a “one-target, one-drug” mode to a “network-target, multiple-component-therapeutics” mode. Network pharmacology is more effective for establishing a “compound-protein/gene-disease” network and revealing the regulation principles of small molecules in a high-throughput manner. This approach makes it very powerful for the analysis of drug combinations, especially Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) preparations. In this work, we first summarized the databases and tools currently used for TCM research. Second, we focused on several representative applications of network pharmacology for TCM research, including studies on TCM compatibility, TCM target prediction, and TCM network toxicology research. Third, we compared the general statistics of several current TCM databases and evaluated and compared the search results of these databases based on 10 famous herbs. In summary, network pharmacology is a rational approach for TCM studies, and with the development of TCM research, powerful and comprehensive TCM databases have emerged but need further improvements. Additionally, given that several diseases could be treated by TCMs, with the mediation of gut microbiota, future studies should focus on both the microbiome and TCMs to better understand and treat microbiome-related diseases.

Network pharmacology-based strategy to investigate pharmacological mechanisms of Zuojinwan for treatment of gastritis

BACKGROUND

Zuojinwan (ZJW), a classic herbal formula, has been extensively used to treat gastric symptoms in clinical practice in China for centuries. However, the pharmacological mechanisms of ZJW still remain vague to date.

METHODS

In the present work, a network pharmacology-based strategy was proposed to elucidate its underlying multi-component, multi-target, and multi-pathway mode of action against gastritis. First we collected putative targets of ZJW based on TCMSP and STITCH databases, and a network containing the interactions between the putative targets of ZJW and known therapeutic targets of gastritis was built. Then four topological parameters, "degree", "betweenness", "closeness", and "coreness" were calculated to identify the major targets in the network. Furthermore, the major hubs were imported to the Metacore database to perform a pathway enrichment analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 118 nodes including 59 putative targets of ZJW were picked out as major hubs in terms of their topological importance. The results of pathway enrichment analysis indicated that putative targets of ZJW mostly participated in various pathways associated with anti-inflammation response, growth and development promotion and G-protein-coupled receptor signaling. More importantly, five putative targets of ZJW (EGFR, IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α and MCP-1) and two known therapeutic targets of gastritis (CCKBR and IL-12β) and a link target NF-κB were recognized as active factors involved in the main biological functions of treatment, implying the underlying mechanisms of ZJW acting on gastritis.

CONCLUSION

ZJW could alleviate gastritis through the molecular mechanisms predicted by network pharmacology, and this research demonstrates that the network pharmacology approach can be an effective tool to reveal the mechanisms of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) from a holistic perspective.

"Yellow-dragon Wonderful-seed Formula" for hyperuricemia in gout patients with dampness-heat pouring downward pattern: a pilot randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) theories, the typical clinical manifestations of gout are attributed to the "dampness-heat pouring downward." Therefore, TCM practitioners always consider prescribing the formulae which are believed to clear heat and drain dampness for the management of gout. This clinical trial aims: (1) to determine the hypouricemic effect of "Yellow-dragon Wonderful-seed Formula" (YWF) decoction in gout patients with dampness-heat pouring downward pattern and (2) to determine if gypsum could provide additional significant benefits to YWF.

METHODS

A total of 72 hyperuricemic individuals with gout and dampness-heat pouring downward pattern were included with 62 of them completing the trial. Participants were randomly assigned to the YWF group, the YWF + gypsum group, or the allopurinol group. YWF and YWF + gypsum decoctions were orally administered for four weeks. Allopurinol was also orally administered for four weeks as the active control. Serum uric acid (sUA) level was the primary outcome measure. Urine urate level, scores on the SF-36 scale, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), X ray film, and C reactive protein (CRP) level were the secondary outcome measures.

RESULTS

Compared with the values at week 0, YWF and YWF + gypsum did not significantly decrease the sUA level at each weekend reading. YWF, YWF + gypsum, and allopurinol decreased the urine urate levels and there were significant differences between the YWF group and the YWF + gypsum group. All the changes in the eight structures of SF-36 during the intervention period were not significantly different among the three groups and there was no significant difference in the CRP level among the three groups at each weekend reading.

CONCLUSIONS

YWM, which modified on the basis of Two Wonderful Herbs Powder (2WHP), does not show significant hypouricemic effect. There is a possibility that Gypsum Fibrosum may provide additional effects to YWF in decreasing the urine urate levels but cannot add benefits to YWF in other outcome measures.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR-TRC-12001933 . Registered on 10 February 2012.

Anti-inflammatory effects of traditional mixed extract of medicinal herbs (MEMH) on monosodium urate crystal-induced gouty arthritis

Korean oriental medicine prescription is widely used for the treatment of gouty diseases. In the present study, we investigated anti-inflammatory effects of modified Korean herbal formulation, mixed extract of medicinal herbs (MEMH), and its modulatory effects on inflammatory mediators associated with gouty arthritis. Both in vitro and in vivo studies were carried out to assess the anti-inflammatory efficacy of MEMH on monosodium urate (MSU) crystals-induced gouty inflammation. MSU crystals stimulated human chondrosarcoma cell line, SW1353, and human primary chondrocytes were treated with MEMH in vitro. The expression levels of pro-inflammatory mediators and metalloproteases were analyzed. The effect of MEMH on NFκB signaling pathway in SW1353 cells was examined. Effect of MEMH on the mRNA expression level of pro-inflammatory mediators and chemotactic factor from human monocytic cell line, THP-1, was also analyzed. The probable role of MEMH in the differentiation process of osteoblast like cells, SaOS-2, after MSU treatment was also observed. To investigate the effects of MEMH in vivo, MSU crystals-induced ankle arthritic model was established. Histopathological changes in affected joints and plasma levels of pro-inflammatory mediators (IL-1β and TNFα) were recorded. MEMH inhibited NFκB signaling pathway and COX-2 protein expression in chondrocytes. MSU-induced mRNA expressions of pro-inflammatory mediators and chemotactic cytokines were suppressed by MEMH. In MSU crystals-induced ankle arthritic mouse model, administration of MEMH relieved inflammatory symptoms and decreased the plasma levels of IL-1β and TNFα. The results indicated that MEMH can effectively inhibit the expression of inflammatory mediators in gouty arthritis, demonstrating its potential for treating gouty arthritis.

Ethnopharmacological implications of quantitative and network analysis for traditional knowledge regarding the medicinal use of animals by indigenous people in Wolchulsan National Park, Korea

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The purpose of this study was to record, analyze, and identify ethnopharmacological implications for oral traditional knowledge regarding the medicinal use of animals by indigenous people living in Wolchulsan National Park, Korea.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data were collected through interviews, informal meetings, open and group discussions, and observations guided by semi-structured questionnaires. Data were analyzed via quantitative analysis of informant consensus factor and fidelity level, and network analysis, including centrality and clustering analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 46 families, 59 genera, and 60 species of animals, as well as 373 methods of usage, were recorded. Fish comprised 31.7% of the total animal species recorded, followed by mammals at 20.0%, arthropods at 18.3%, and mollusks at 11.7%. Of these animals, 48.0% were utilized as food and 46.1% for medicinal use. Quantitative analysis showed that the category with the highest degree of consensus from informants was veterinary ailments (informant consensus factor value, 0.96). This was followed by poisonings (0.93), pains (0.92), genitourinary system disorders (0.91), cuts and wounds (0.89), and other medical conditions. The lowest degree of consensus was for skin diseases and disorders (0.57). There were 8 species of animals with a fidelity level of 100%, after eliminating from the animals analyzed that were mentioned only once. Finally, using network analysis, Gallus gallus domesticus and Gloydius brevicaudus were defined as species with meaningful medicinal use, while lack of vigor and lung diseases were defined as significant ailments in the study area.

CONCLUSION

This study validates that local communities use animals not only for food but also for medicinal purposes as crucial therapeutic measures. Therefore, the conservation of fauna and preservation of traditional knowledge need to be seriously considered to maintain the health and well-being of the local communities. Network analysis clarified the series of ailments for which each animal species is preferentially used and helped confirm the order of priority when prescribing animal components for medicinal use. The traditional knowledge recorded in the present study will provide the basic data to develop new medicines for the bioindustry.

Uncovering the Pharmacological Mechanism of Astragalus Salvia Compound on Pregnancy-Induced Hypertension Syndrome by a Network Pharmacology Approach

To uncover the pharmacological mechanism of Astragalus Salvia compound (ASC) on pregnancy-induced hypertension syndrome (PIH), to provide useful information for clinical, as well as to connect the basic and clinical by a network pharmacological approach, we used network pharmacological approach. We collected ASC's compounds by traditional Chinese Medicine databases, and input them into PharmMapper to got their targets. Then we acquired PIH targets from Genecards and OMIM, collected the interactions of all the targets and other human proteins via String and INACT. We also constructed the network by Cytoscape and analyze it by MCODE so as to get clusters. Finally, we put all the targets of clusters into DAVID to do GO enrichment analysis. After these, four networks are constructed by Cytoscape; they are PIH network, compound-compound target network of ASC, ASC-PIH network, and compound target-PIH target-other human proteins' PPI network. According to the results, we think that ASC may directly regulate several biological processes and their genes in "endothelial cell activation and injury" and "placental or trophoblast cell ischemia" models to treat PIH. And it may indirectly act on the rest of the biological process to treat PIH or may not.

Systems Pharmacology Dissection of Multiscale Mechanisms of Action for Herbal Medicines in Treating Rheumatoid Arthritis

As a chronic inflammatory and angiogenic disease with increased morbidity and mortality, rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is characterized by the proliferation of synovial tissue and the accumulation of excessive mononuclear infiltration, which always results in the joint deformity, disability, and eventually the destruction of the bone and cartilage. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), with rich history of proper effectiveness in treating the inflammatory joint disease containing RA, has long combated such illness from, actually, an integrative and holistic point of view. However, its "multi-components" and "multi-targets" features make it very difficult to decipher the molecular mechanisms of RA from a systematic perspective if employing only routine methods. Presently, an innovative systems-pharmacology approach was introduced, which combined the ADME screening model, drug targeting, and network pharmacology, to explore the action mechanisms of botanic herbs for the treatment of RA. As a result, we uncovered 117 active compounds and 85 key molecular targets from seven RA-related herbs, which are mainly implicated in four signaling pathways, that is, vascular endothelial growth factor, PI3K-Akt, Toll-like receptor, and T-cell-receptor pathways. Additionally, the network relationships among the active components, target proteins, and pathways were further built to uncover the pharmacological characters of these herbs. Besides, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and molecular mechanics-Poisson-Boltzmann surface area calculations were carried out to explore the binding interactions between the compounds and their receptors as well as to investigate the binding affinity of the ligand to their protein targets. In vitro experiments by ligand binding assays validate the reliability of the drug-target interactions as well as the MD results. The high binding affinities and good inhibitions of the active compounds indicate that the potential therapeutic effects of these herbal medicines for treating RA are exerted probably through the modulation of these relevant proteins, which further validates the rationality and reliability of the drug-target interactions as well as our the network-based analytical methods. This work may be of help for not only understanding the action mechanisms of TCM and for discovering new drugs from plants for the treatment of RA, but also providing a novel potential method for modern medicine in treating complex diseases.

Identification of the Chemical Constituents in Simiao Wan and Rat Plasma after Oral Administration by GC-MS and LC-MS

Simiao Wan (SMW), an important multiherbal formula used in traditional Chinese medicine, is extensively used to treat rheumatoid arthritis. However, the knowledge of the bioactive components of SMW remains unclear. Thus, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) were used to analyze the chemical constituents of volatile and nonvolatile extracts of SMW, as well as its absorbed components in rat plasma after oral SMW administration. Identification of several compounds was enabled by comparison of retention times, MS spectra, and MS/MS spectral data with the standard substance and reference materials reported in the literature. In the volatile extracts, GC-MS identified 26 compounds in vitro, three of which observed in blood by GC-MS. In the nonvolatile extracts, LC-MS identified 49 compounds in SMW; 18 compounds containing 7 prototype compounds, 5 metabolites, and 6 unknown compounds were absorbed by blood. The proposed GC-MS and LC-MS method was appropriate not only for the rapid screening and identification of multiple components of an SMW extract but also for screening its bioactive constituents in vivo. The proposed method could be a promising tool for the quality control of other Chinese herbal medicines.