Sophora flavescens Ait.: Traditional usage, phytochemistry and pharmacology of an important traditional Chinese medicine

Sophoraflavanone G: A review of the phytochemistry and pharmacology

Bioactive compounds derived from natural sources have long been investigated for the prevention and treatment of human diseases. Sophoraflavanone G (SFG), a lavandulyl flavanone naturally occurring in several Sophora plant species, belongs to the group of prenylated flavonoids that have garnered significant interest in contemporary research. The natural molecule exhibits a wide range of pharmacological properties and shows remarkable efficacy. Its ability to effectively suppress a range of malignant tumor cells, such as leukemia, breast cancer, and lung cancer, is attributed to its multi-target, multi-pathway, and multi-faceted mechanisms of action. Simultaneously, it can also alleviate various inflammatory diseases by mediating inflammatory mediators and molecular pathways. Furthermore, it has the capability to combat antibiotic resistance, exhibit synergistic antibacterial properties with diverse antibiotics, and prevent and treat various agricultural pests. Theoretically, it can bring benefits to human health and has potential value as a drug. Nevertheless, the drawbacks of poor water solubility and inadequate targeting cannot be overlooked. To comprehensively assess the current research on SFG, leverage its structural advantages and pharmacological activity, overcome its low bioavailability limitations, expedite its progression into a novel therapeutic drug, and better serve the clinic, this article presents a overall retrospect of the current research status of SFG. The discussion includes an analysis of the structural characteristics, physicochemical properties, bioavailability, pharmacological activities, and structure-activity relationships of SFG, with the goal of offering valuable insights and guidance for future research endeavors in this field.

Preparation of double-loaded bitter ginseng derivative B21-DOX liposomes co-modified with SP94 and BR2 ligand and its in vitro anti-hepatocarcinogenic effect

AIM

To construct a novel liposomal drug delivery system co-modified with SP94 and BR2 ligands, encapsulating both the bitter ginseng derivative B21 and doxorubicin (DOX), to achieve superior anti-tumour efficacy and reduced toxic side effects.

METHODS

Liposomes were prepared using an organic phase reaction method, with B21 encapsulated in the lipid phase and DOX in the aqueous phase. The liposomes were further modified with SP94 and BR2 peptides. The characterisations, cytotoxicity, and in vitro targeting effects were assessed through various methods including ultraviolet spectrophotometry, high-performance liquid chromatography, nano-size analysis, ultrafiltration centrifugation, dialysis, transmission electron microscopy, flow cytometry, Methylthiazolyldiphenyl-tetrazolium bromide assay, confocal laser scanning microscopy, transwell assay, and tumorsphere assay.

RESULTS

SP94/BR2-B21/DOX-LP liposomes were spherical with an average diameter of 120.87 ± 1.00 nm, a polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.223 ± 0.006, and a surface charge of -23.1 ± 1.27 mV. The encapsulation efficiencies for B21 and DOX were greater than 85% and 97% (mg/mg), respectively. The results indicated that SP94/BR2-B21/DOX-LP exhibited enhanced targeting and cytotoxicity compared to single-ligand modified and unmodified liposomes, with the combined encapsulation of B21 and DOX showing synergistic anti-hepatocarcinogenic effects.

CONCLUSION

SP94/BR2-B21/DOX-LP liposomes represent a promising targeted drug delivery system for hepatocellular carcinoma, offering improved membrane penetration, enhanced therapeutic efficacy, and reduced systemic toxicity.

The synergy effect of matrine and berberine hydrochloride on treating colibacillosis caused by an avian highly pathogenic multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli

Infection by multidrug-resistant avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) in chickens always leads to the uselessness of antibiotics, highlighting the need for alternative antibacterial agents. Sophora flavescens and Coptis chinensis have been a classical combination used together in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) formulas to treat diseases with similar symptoms to colibacillosis for an extended period, but the effect of their active ingredients' combination on APEC infection remains unstudied. The objective of this study was to explore the synergistic effect of matrine and berberine hydrochloride on colibacillosis caused by an isolated multidrug-resistant APEC. In this study, a highly pathogenic E. coli was isolated from the liver of a diseased chicken in a farm suspected of colibacillosis, and it was resistant to multiple antibiotics. The LD50 of the strain was approximately 3.759×108 CFU/mL. The strain harbored several antibiotic resistance genes and virulence genes. Matrine and berberine hydrochloride have synergistic antibacterial effect against the isolated strain in vitro. The combined use of matrine and berberine hydrochloride exhibited synergistic effects in the treatment of APEC infection by regulating the organ indices, improving the pathological situation, decreasing the bacterial load, and regulating the inflammatory factors to enhance the survival rate of chickens in vivo. These results provided a foundation for revealing the effective effects and possible mechanisms of matrine and berberine hydrochloride as potential antimicrobial agents on diseases caused by multidrug-resistant APEC in chickens.

Metabolites from traditional Chinese botanical drugs with anti-hepatitis B virus activity - a review

Hepatitis B virus (HBV)-related liver disease poses a major threat to human health worldwide. Although interferon and nucleoside analogues are commonly administered for treating chronic HBV infection, their use is limited by considerable side effects, drug resistance and incapacity for HBV elimination. Hence, novel HBV therapeutics are urgently required. For numerous years, traditional Chinese botanical drugs have been widely used to treat HBV-related diseases. The natural metabolites derived from these traditional drugs exhibit significant anti-HBV effects and serve as potential novel drugs for treating HBV. For overall understanding the therapeutic potential of these metabolites, the anti-HBV effects and mechanisms of action of 107 natural metabolites are summarized in this article. Mechanistically, these natural metabolites exert their anti-HBV effects by influencing the expression and function of host and/or viral genes, which differs from the mechanism of action of nucleoside analogues. Indeed, combining natural metabolites with nucleoside analogues can exert synergistic effects. Accordingly, natural metabolites or their chemically modified derivatives represent potential novel drugs and adjuvants for anti-HBV treatment.

Prenylated flavonoids from Sophora flavescens inhibit mushroom tyrosinase activity and modulate melanogenesis in murine melanoma cells and zebrafish

Background: Sophora flavescens, a traditional Chinese medicine for treating conditions associated with abnormal skin pigmentation, contains flavonoids with inhibitory effects on tyrosinase. However, their mechanisms of action and their modulatory effects on melanogenesis remain unclear. Methods: Herein, a group of prenylated flavonoids was identified from S. flavescens extracts and their inhibitory activities on mushroom tyrosinase were evaluated. The anti-melanogenesis effects of these prenylated flavonoids were investigated in cellular (with murine melanoma cells) and animal (with zebrafish) models. Results: Prenylated flavonoids including isoanhydroicaritin (IAI), kurarinone (KR), and sophoraflavanone G (SG) were the major active constituents in S. flavescens extracts with anti-tyrosinase activity (IC50 = 0.7, 7.1, and 6.7 μM, respectively). Enzyme kinetic assays showed that IAI, KR, and SG had a mixed type of tyrosinase inhibition, supported by data from computational docking. Notably, KR at concentrations of 5 and 10 μM enhanced intracellular tyrosinase activity and stimulated melanin production in B16F10 cells, whereas SG and IAI did not exhibit significant activity. Further studies with the zebrafish model showed that IAI (80 and 160 μM) inhibited melanin biosynthesis by about 30.0% while KR (20 μM) stimulated melanogenesis by 36.9%. Furthermore, a zebrafish depigmentation model supported the anti-melanogenesis effect of IAI (80 and 160 μM) by 33.0% and 34.4%, respectively. Conclusion: In summary, IAI was identified as a tyrosinase inhibitor with an anti-melanogenic effect and KR was an enhancer for melanin production in B16F10 cells and zebrafish. Findings from the current study suggest that IAI and KR from S. flavescens may exert contrasting effects in the modulation of melanin production, providing important insights into the development of S. flavescens as a cosmeceutical or medicinal ingredient.

Natural Prenylflavonoids from Sophora flavescens Root Bark against Multidrug-Resistant Methicillin-Sensitive Staphylococcus aureus Targeting the Membrane Permeability

The overuse of antibiotics in animal farming and aquaculture has led to multidrug-resistant methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MR-MSSA) becoming a common pathogen in foodborne diseases. Sophora flavescens Ait. serves as a traditional plant antibacterial agent and functional food ingredient. A total of 30 compounds (1-30) were isolated from the root bark of S. flavescens, consisting of 20 new compounds (1-20). In the biological activity assay, compound 1 demonstrated a remarkable inhibitory effect on MR-MSSA, with an MIC of 2 μg/mL. Furthermore, 1 was found to rapidly eliminate bacteria, inhibit biofilm growth, and exhibit exceptionally low cytotoxicity. Mechanistic studies have revealed that 1 possesses an enhanced membrane-targeting ability, binding to the bacterial cell membrane components phosphatidylglycerol (PG), phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), and cardiolipin (CL). This disruption of bacterial cell membrane integrity increases intracellular reactive oxygen species, protein and DNA leakage, reduced bacterial metabolism, and ultimately bacterial death. In summary, these findings suggest that compound 1 holds promise as a lead compound against MR-MSSA.

Matrine exhibits antiviral activities against PEDV by directly targeting Spike protein of the virus and inducing apoptosis via the MAPK signaling pathway

Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea Virus (PEDV) is a highly contagious virus that causes Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea (PED). This enteric disease results in high mortality rates in piglets, leading to significant financial losses in the pig industry. However, vaccines cannot provide sufficient protection against epidemic strains. Spike (S) protein exposed on the surface of virion mediates PEDV entry into cells. Our findings imply that matrine (MT), a naturally occurring alkaloid, inhibits PEDV infection targeting S protein of virions and biological process of cells. The GLY434 residue in the autodocking site of the S protein and MT conserved based on sequence comparison. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of viral attachment, entry, and virucidal effects to investigate how that MT inhibits virus replication. MT inhibits PEDV attachment and entry by targeting S protein. MT was added to cells before, during, or after infection, it exhibits anti-PEDV activities and viricidal effects. Network pharmacology focuses on addressing causal mechanisms rather than just treating symptoms. We identified the key genes and screened the cell apoptosis involved in the inhibition of MT on PEDV infection in network pharmacology. MT significantly promotes cell apoptosis in PEDV-infected cells to inhibit PEDV infection by activating the MAPK signaling pathway. Collectively, we provide the biological foundations for the development of single components of traditional Chinese medicine to inhibit PEDV infection and spread.

Integrated metabolomics and network pharmacology study on the mechanism of herbal pair of danggui-kushen for treating ischemia heart disease

DangGui-KuShen (DK) is a well-known classic traditional Chinese medicine recipe that improves blood circulation, eliminates moisture, and detoxifies, and is frequently used in the treatment of cardiovascular problems. Some protective effects of DK on cardiovascular disease have previously been identified, but its precise mechanism remains unknown. The goal of this study is to combine metabolomics and network pharmacology to investigate DK's protective mechanism in Ischemic Heart Disease(IHD) rat models. A combination of metabolomics and network pharmacology based on UPLC-Q-TOF/MS technology was used in this study to verify the effect of DK on IHD through enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, HE staining, and electrocardiogram, and it was determined that DK improves the synergistic mechanism of IHD. In total, 22 serum differential metabolites and 26 urine differential metabolites were discovered, with the majority of them involved in phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan biosynthesis, glycine, serine, and threonine metabolism, arginine and proline metabolism, aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis, purine metabolism, and other metabolic pathways. Furthermore, using network pharmacology, a composite target pathway network of DangGui and KuShen for treating IHD was created, which is primarily associated to the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) signaling pathway, P53 signaling, and HIF-1 signaling pathways. The combined research indicated that the NF-B signaling pathway and the HIF-1 signaling pathway are critical in DK treatment of IHD. This study clearly confirms and expands on current knowledge of the synergistic effects of DG and KS in IHD.

Oxymatrine alleviates high-fat diet/streptozotocin-induced non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in C57BL/6 J mice by modulating oxidative stress, inflammation and fibrosis

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) represents a complex complication of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Oxymatrine (OMT) is an alkaloid extracted from Sophora flavescens with broad pharmacological effects. However, there is currently a lack of research on OMT in the field of NAFLD. The present study aimed to explore the effects and underlying mechanisms of oxymatrine in treating T2DM with NAFLD. The T2DM mice model was induced by high-fat diet (HFD) combined with streptozotocin (STZ) injection in male C57BL/6 J mice. Animals were randomly divided into four groups (n = 8): Control group, DC group, OMT-L group (45 mg/kg i.g.), and OMT-H group (90 mg/kg, i.g.). The drug was administered once a day for 8 weeks. In addition, HepG2 hepatocytes were incubated with palmitic acid (PA) to establish a fatty liver cell model. Treated with OMT, the body weight and fasting blood glucose (FBG) of DC mice were reduced and the liver organ coefficient was significantly optimized. Meanwhile, OMT markedly enhanced the activities of key antioxidant enzymes, including superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and also reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. These biochemical alterations were accompanied by noticeable improvements in liver histopathology. Furthermore, OMT down-regulated the expression of NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) and collagen I significantly, highlighting its potential in modulating inflammatory and fibrotic pathways. In conclusion, OMT improved liver impairment effectively in diabetic mice by suppressing oxidative stress, inflammation and fibrosis. These results suggest that OMT may represent a novel therapy for NAFLD with diabetes.

Oxymatrine combined with rapamycin to attenuate acute cardiac allograft rejection

Background and aim

Solid organ transplantation remains a life-saving therapeutic option for patients with end-stage organ dysfunction. Acute cellular rejection (ACR), dominated by dendritic cells (DCs) and CD4+ T cells, is a major cause of post-transplant mortality. Inhibiting DC maturation and directing the differentiation of CD4+ T cells toward immunosuppression are keys to inhibiting ACR. We propose that oxymatrine (OMT), a quinolizidine alkaloid, either alone or in combination with rapamycin (RAPA), attenuates ACR by inhibiting the mTOR-HIF-1α pathway.

Methods

Graft damage was assessed using haematoxylin and eosin staining. Intragraft CD11c+ and CD4+ cell infiltrations were detected using immunohistochemical staining. The proportions of mature DCs, T helper (Th) 1, Th17, and Treg cells in the spleen; donor-specific antibody (DSA) secretion in the serum; mTOR-HIF-1α expression in the grafts; and CD4+ cells and bone marrow-derived DCs (BMDCs) were evaluated using flow cytometry.

Results

OMT, either alone or in combination with RAPA, significantly alleviated pathological damage; decreased CD4+ and CD11c+ cell infiltration in cardiac allografts; reduced the proportion of mature DCs, Th1 and Th17 cells; increased the proportion of Tregs in recipient spleens; downregulated DSA production; and inhibited mTOR and HIF-1α expression in the grafts. OMT suppresses mTOR and HIF-1α expression in BMDCs and CD4+ T cells in vitro.

Conclusions

Our study suggests that OMT-based therapy can significantly attenuate acute cardiac allograft rejection by inhibiting DC maturation and CD4+ T cell responses. This process may be related to the inhibition of the mTOR-HIF-1α signaling pathway by OMT.

Liquid Chromatography/Tandem Mass Spectrometry Analysis of Sophora flavescens Aiton and Protective Effects against Alcohol-Induced Liver Injury and Oxidative Stress in Mice

In this study, we investigated the hepatoprotective effects of an ethanol extract of Sophora flavescens Aiton (ESF) on an alcohol-induced liver disease mouse model. Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) was caused by the administration of ethanol to male C57/BL6 mice who were given a Lieber-DeCarli liquid diet, including ethanol. The alcoholic fatty liver disease mice were orally administered ESF (100 and 200 mg/kg bw/day) or silymarin (50 mg/kg bw/day), which served as a positive control every day for 16 days. The findings suggest that ESF enhances hepatoprotective benefits by significantly decreasing serum levels of aspartate transaminase (AST) and alanine transaminase (ALT), markers for liver injury. Furthermore, ESF alleviated the accumulation of triglyceride (TG) and total cholesterol (TC), increased serum levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione (GSH), and improved serum alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) activity in the alcoholic fatty liver disease mice model. Cells and organisms rely on the Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1- Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Keap1-Nrf2) system as a critical defensive mechanism in response to oxidative stress. Therefore, Nrf2 plays an important role in ALD antioxidant responses, and its level is decreased by increased reactive oxidation stress (ROS) in the liver. ESF increased Nrf2, which was decreased in ethanol-damaged livers. Additionally, four polyphenol compounds were identified through a qualitative analysis of the ESF using LC-MS/MS. This study confirmed ESF's antioxidative and hangover-elimination effects and suggested the possibility of using Sophora flavescens Aiton (SF) to treat ALD.

Effects of natural extract from medicinal herbs on broilers experimentally infected with Eimeria tenella

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of natural extracts from nine medicinal herbs (SMA) on the growth performance, immunity, and intestinal integrity of broilers experimentally infected with Eimeria tenella. A total of 252 one-day-old broiler chicks were divided into 7 groups with 3 replicates per group and 12 broilers per cage. The groups were uninfected-untreated blank control group (BC), infected-untreated negative control group (NC), SMA treatment groups, Chinese medicine positive control group (CM), and chemical drug positive control group (CD). The SMA groups were infected and fed a basal diet supplemented with 0.6 (SMA-L), 0.8 (SMA-M), and 1.0 (SMA-H) g/kg SMA. The CM and CD groups were infected and fed a basal diet supplemented with 15 g/kg Jiqiuchong San and 0.2 g/kg Diclazuril, respectively. Results showed that feeding SMA could significantly reduce the number of oocysts in infected chickens, especially 1.0 g/kg SMA, which exhibited moderate anticoccidial efficacy. When infected with E. tenella, the supplementation of 1.0 g/kg SMA increased the renal index; restored the hepatic, splenic, and bursal indexes to BC levels; increased the levels of immunoglobulin A (IgA), IgM, and IgY; and reduced the contents of tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), interferon-γ (IFN-γ), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and IL-10 of the infected chickens. Moreover, treatment with 1.0 g/kg SMA alleviated the pathological changes in cecal tissue and increased the contents of zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1), occludin, claudin-1, and mucoprotein 2 (mucin-2) in cecal tissues of E. tenella-infected chickens. We found that 1.0 g/kg SMA reduced the number of oocysts, improved immunity, and alleviated intestinal barrier damage, which could improve the growth performance of infected chickens. Thus, SMA proved to be an effective natural extract against E. tenella and has the potential to be used as an efficient anticoccidial drug or additive.

The anti-inflammatory activity of flavonoids and alkaloids from Sophora flavescens alleviates psoriasiform lesions: Prenylation and methoxylation beneficially enhance bioactivity and skin targeting

The herb Sophora flavescens displays anti-inflammatory activity and can provide a source of antipsoriatic medications. We aimed to evaluate whether S. flavescens extracts and compounds can relieve psoriasiform inflammation. The ability of flavonoids (maackiain, sophoraflavanone G, leachianone A) and alkaloids (matrine, oxymatrine) isolated from S. flavescens to inhibit production of cytokine/chemokines was examined in keratinocytes and macrophages. Physicochemical properties and skin absorption were determined by in silico molecular modeling and the in vitro permeation test (IVPT) to establish the structure-permeation relationship (SPR). The ethyl acetate extract exhibited higher inhibition of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, and CXCL1 production in tumor necrosis factor-α-stimulated keratinocytes compared to the ethanol and water extracts. The flavonoids demonstrated higher cytokine/chemokine inhibition than alkaloids, with the prenylated flavanones (sophoraflavanone G, leachianone A) led to the highest suppression. Flavonoids exerted anti-inflammatory effects via the extracellular signal-regulated kinase, p38, activator protein-1, and nuclear factor-κB signaling pathways. In the IVPT, prenylation of the flavanone skeleton significantly promoted skin absorption from 0.01 to 0.22 nmol/mg (sophoraflavanone G vs. eriodictyol). Further methoxylation of a prenylated flavanone (leachianone A) elevated skin absorption to 2.65 nmol/mg. Topical leachianone A reduced the epidermal thickness in IMQ-treated mice by 47%, and inhibited cutaneous scaling and cytokine/chemokine overexpression at comparable levels to a commercial betamethasone product. Thus, prenylation and methoxylation of S. flavescens flavanones may enable the design of novel antipsoriatic agents.

Ultrasonic-assisted extraction, anti-biofilm activity, and mechanism of action of Ku Shen (Sophorae Flavescentis Radix) extracts against Vibrio parahaemolyticus

The objective of this study is to optimize the ultrasonic-assisted extraction process of Ku Shen (Sophorae Flavescentis Radix) extracts (KSE) against Vibrio parahaemolyticus and explore their anti-biofilm activity and mechanism of action. The ultrasonic-assisted extraction process of KSE optimized by single factor experiment, Box-Behnken design and response surface methodology was as follows: 93% ethanol as solvent, liquid/material ratio of 30 mL/g, ultrasonic power of 500 W, extraction temperature of 80°C and time of 30 min. Under these conditions, the diameter of inhibition circle of KSE was 15.60 ± 0.17 mm, which had no significant difference with the predicted value. The yield of dried KSE is 32.32 ± 0.57% and the content of total flavonoids in KSE was 57.02 ± 5.54%. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of KSE against V. parahaemolyticus were 0.25 and 0.5 mg/mL, respectively. Crystal violet staining, Congo red plate, spectrophotometry, CCK-8 and scanning electron microscopy were used to investigate the activity and mechanism of action of KSE against V. parahaemolyticus biofilm. The results showed that the sub-MIC of KSE could significantly inhibit biofilm formation, reduce the synthesis of polysaccharide intercellular adhesin (PIA) and the secretion of extracellular DNA. In addition, the inhibition rate of biofilm formation and clearance rate of mature biofilm of 1.0 mg/mL KSE were 85.32 and 74.04%, and the reduction rate of metabolic activity of developing and mature biofilm were 77.98 and 74.46%, respectively. These results were confirmed by visual images obtained by scanning electron microscopy. Therefore, KSE has the potential to further isolate the anti-biofilm agent and evaluate it for the preservation process of aquatic products.

Kurarinone regulates Th17/Treg balance and ameliorates autoimmune uveitis via Rac1 inhibition

INTRODUCTION

Autoimmune uveitis (AU) is a severe intraocular autoimmune disorder with a chronic disease course and a high rate of blindness. Kurarinone (KU), a major component of the traditional Chinese medicine Sophorae Flavescentis Radix, possesses a wide spectrum of activities and has been used to treat several inflammation-related diseases.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to investigate the effects of KU on AU and its modulatory mechanisms.

METHODS

We used an experimental autoimmune uveitis (EAU) animal model and characterized the comprehensive immune landscape of KU-treated EAU mice using single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq). The retina and lymph nodes were analyzed. The siRNAs and selective inhibitors were used to study the signaling pathway. The effect of KU on peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from uveitis patients was also examined.

RESULTS

We found that KU relieved chorioretinal lesions and immune cell infiltration in EAU model mice. Subsequent single-cell analysis revealed that KU downregulated the EAU-upregulated expression of inflammatory and autoimmune-related genes and suppressed pathways associated with immune cell differentiation, activation, and migration in a cell-specific manner. KU was implicated in restoring T helper 17 (Th17)/regulatory T (Treg) cell balance by alleviating inflammatory injury and elevating the expression of modulatory mediators in Tregs, while simultaneously ameliorating excessive inflammation by Th17 cells. Furthermore, Rac1 and the Id2/Pim1 axis potentiated the pathogenicity of Th17 cells during EAU, which was inhibited by KU treatment, contributing to the amelioration of EAU-induced inflammation and treatment of AU. In addition, KU suppressed inflammatory cytokine production in activated human PBMCs by inhibiting Rac1. Integration of the glucocorticoid-treated transcriptome suggests that KU has immunomodulatory effects on lymphocytes.

CONCLUSION

Our study constructed a high-resolution atlas of the immunoregulatory effects of KU treatment on EAU and identified its potential therapeutic mechanisms, which hold great promise in treating autoimmune disorders.

Sophora flavescens alcohol extract ameliorates insomnia and promotes PI3K/AKT/BDNF signaling transduction in insomnia model rats

Active ingredient of Sophora flavescens is reported to promote non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep. However, the role of Sophora flavescens alcohol extract in insomnia is elusive, which is addressed in this study, together with the exploration on its potential mechanism. An insomnia model of rats was established by para-chlorophenylalanine induction and further treated with SFAE or Zaoren Anshen capsule (ZRAS; positive control drug). Sleep quality and sleep architecture of rats were evaluated by the sleep test, electroencephalogram and electromyogram. The levels of monoamine neurotransmitters in rat hypothalamus were determined using ELISA, and the transduction of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT)/brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) signaling in the brain tissues of rats was examined by Western blot. SFAE and ZRAS increased the sleeping time and decreased the sleep latency of insomnia rats. SFAE reduced waking time and increased NREM and REM time, while changing power density of wakefulness, NREM sleep, and REM sleep in insomnia rats. SFAE and ZRAS upregulated levels of 5-hydroxytryptamine and 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid, and downregulated those of norepinephrine and dopamine in insomnia rats. Besides, SFAE and ZRAS elevated BDNF expression as well as the ratios of phosphorylated (p)-PI3K/PI3K and p-AKT/AKT. The role of SFAE in insomnia model rats was similar with that of ZRAS. SFAE reduces insomnia and enhances the PI3K/AKT/BDNF signaling transduction in insomnia model rats, which can function as a drug candidate for insomnia.

Antimicrobial activities of lavandulylated flavonoids in Sophora flavences against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus via membrane disruption

INTRODUCTION

The continuous emergence and rapid spread of multidrug-resistant bacteria have accelerated the demand for the discovery of alternative antibiotics. Natural plants contain a variety of antibacterial components, which is an important source for the discovery of antimicrobial agents.

OBJECTIVE

To explore the antimicrobial activities and related mechanisms of two lavandulylated flavonoids, sophoraflavanone G and kurarinone in Sophora flavescens against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.

METHODS

The effects of sophoraflavanone G and kurarinone on methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus were comprehensively investigated by a combination of proteomics and metabolomics studies. Bacterial morphology was observed by scanning electron microscopy. Membrane fluidity, membrane potential, and membrane integrity were determined using the fluorescent probes Laurdan, DiSC3(5), and propidium iodide, respectively. Adenosine triphosphate and reactive oxygen species levels were determined using the adenosine triphosphate kit and reactive oxygen species kit, respectively. The affinity activity of sophoraflavanone G to the cell membrane was determined by isothermal titration calorimetry assays.

RESULTS

Sophoraflavanone G and kurarinone showed significant antibacterial activity and anti-multidrug resistance properties. Mechanistic studies mainly showed that they could target the bacterial membrane and cause the destruction of the membrane integrity and biosynthesis. They could inhibit cell wall synthesis, induce hydrolysis and prevent bacteria from synthesizing biofilms. In addition, they can interfere with the energy metabolism of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and disrupt the normal physiological activities of the bacteria. In vivo studies have shown that they can significantly improve wound infection and promote wound healing.

CONCLUSION

Kurarinone and sophoraflavanone G showed promising antimicrobial properties against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, suggesting that they may be potential candidates for the development of new antibiotic agents against multidrug-resistant bacteria.

Estrogenic Prenylated Flavonoids in Sophora flavescens

Sophora flavescens is a medicinal herb distributed widely in Japan and it has been used to treat various diseases and symptoms. To explore its pharmacological use, we examined the estrogenic activity of four prenylated flavonoids, namely kurarinone, kushenols A and I, and sophoraflavanone G, which are characterized by the lavandulyl group at position 8 of ring A, but have variations in the hydroxyl group at positions 3 (ring C), 5 (ring A) and 4' (ring B). These prenylated flavonoids were examined via cell proliferation assays using sulforhodamine B, Western blotting, and RT-PCR, corresponding to cell, protein, and transcription assays, respectively, based on estrogen action mechanisms. All the assays employed here found weak but clear estrogenic activities for the prenylated flavonoids examined. Furthermore, the activities were inhibited by an estrogen receptor antagonist, suggesting that the activities were likely being mediated by the estrogen receptors. However, there were differences in the activity, attributable to the hydroxyl group at position 4', which is absent in kushenol A. While the estrogenic activity of kurarinone and sophoraflavanone G has been reported before, to the best of our knowledge, there are no such reports on kushenols A and I. Therefore, this study represents the first report of their estrogenic activity.

The dynamic equilibrium between the protective and toxic effects of matrine in the development of liver injury: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background: Matrine, an alkaloid derived from the dried roots of Sophora flavescens Aiton, has been utilized for the treatment of liver diseases, but its potential hepatotoxicity raises concerns. However, the precise condition and mechanism of action of matrine on the liver remain inconclusive. Therefore, the objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to comprehensively evaluate both the hepatoprotective and hepatotoxic effects of matrine and provide therapeutic guidance based on the findings. Methods: The meta-analysis systematically searched relevant preclinical literature up to May 2023 from eight databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Embase, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, WanFang Med Online, China Science and Technology Journal Database, and China Biomedical Literature Service System. The CAMARADES system assessed the quality and bias of the evidence. Statistical analysis was conducted using STATA, which included the use of 3D maps and radar charts to display the effects of matrine dosage and frequency on hepatoprotection and hepatotoxicity. Results: After a thorough screening, 24 studies involving 657 rodents were selected for inclusion. The results demonstrate that matrine has bidirectional effects on ALT and AST levels, and it also regulates SOD, MDA, serum TG, serum TC, IL-6, TNF-α, and CAT levels. Based on our comprehensive three-dimensional analysis, the optimal bidirectional effective dosage of matrine ranges from 10 to 69.1 mg/kg. However, at a dose of 20-30 mg/kg/d for 0.02-0.86 weeks, it demonstrated high liver protection and low toxicity. The molecular docking analysis revealed the interaction between MT and SERCA as well as SREBP-SCAP complexes. Matrine could alter Ca2+ homeostasis in liver injury via multiple pathways, including the SREBP1c/SCAP, Notch/RBP-J/HES1, IκK/NF-κB, and Cul3/Rbx1/Keap1/Nrf2. Conclusion: Matrine has bidirectional effects on the liver at doses ranging from 10 to 69.1 mg/kg by influencing Ca2+ homeostasis in the cytoplasm, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, and mitochondria. Systematic review registration: https://inplasy.com/, identifier INPLASY202340114.

Anti-Inflammatory Effects of the LK5 Herbal Complex on LPS- and IL-4/IL-13-Stimulated HaCaT Cells and a DNCB-Induced Animal Model of Atopic Dermatitis in BALB/c Mice

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease influenced by a complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors. The activation of the JAK-STAT pathway increases the expression of inflammatory cytokines such as IL-4 and IL-13, further deteriorating AD. Therefore, for the treatment of AD, the JAK-STAT pathway is emerging as a significant target, alongside inflammatory cytokines. This study investigates the potential therapeutic effects of a novel herbal complex, LK5, composed of Scutellaria baicalensis, Liriope platyphylla, Sophora flavescens, Dictammus dasycarpus, and Phellodendron schneider, known for their anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating properties. We examined the anti-inflammatory and anti-AD effects of the LK5 herbal complex in HaCaT cells stimulated by LPS and IL-4/IL-13, as well as in a mouse model of AD induced by DNCB. In HaCaT cells stimulated with LPS or IL-4/IL-13, the LK5 herbal complex demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the expression of inflammatory cytokines including TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β, and downregulating the phosphorylation of STAT proteins. In a murine AD-like model induced by DNCB, administration of the LK5 herbal complex significantly ameliorated clinical symptoms, including dermatitis, ear thickness, and TEWL. Histological analysis revealed a reduction in epidermal thickness and mast cell infiltration. The LK5 herbal complex also inhibited pruritus induced by compound 48/80. Furthermore, the LK5 herbal complex treatment significantly decreased the levels of inflammatory cytokines such as TSLP, IL-6, and IgE in plasma and ear tissue of AD-induced mice. These findings suggest that the LK5 herbal complex may modulate the immune response and alleviate AD symptoms by inhibiting STAT pathways.

Oxymatrine Improves Oxidative Stress-Induced Senescence in HT22 Cells and Mice via the Activation of AMP-Activated Protein Kinase

The accumulation of oxidative stress is one of the important factors causing cellular senescence. Oxymatrine (OM) is a natural quinolizidine alkaloid compound known for its antioxidant effects. This study aimed to investigate the anti-senescence potential of OM through oxidative stress-induced in vitro and in vivo models. By treating 600 μM of H2O2 to the HT22 mouse hippocampal neuronal cell line and by administering 150 mg/kg D-galactose to mice, we generated oxidative stress-induced senescence models. After providing 1, 2, and 4 μg/mL of OM to the HT22 mouse cell line and by administering 50 mg/kg OM to mice, we evaluated the enhancing effects. We evaluated different senescence markers, AMPK activity, and autophagy, along with DCFH-DA detection reaction and behavioral tests. In HT22 cells, OM showed a protective effect. OM, by reducing ROS and increasing p-AMPK expression, could potentially reduce oxidative stress-induced senescence. In the D-Gal-induced senescence mouse model, both the brain and heart tissues recovered AMPK activity, resulting in reduced levels of senescence. In neural tissue, to assess neurological recovery, including anxiety symptoms and exploration, we used a behavioral test. We also found that OM decreased the expression level of receptors for advanced glycation end products (RAGE). In heart tissue, we could observe the restoration of AMPK activity, which also increased the activity of autophagy. The results of our study suggest that OM ameliorates oxidative stress-induced senescence through its antioxidant action by restoring AMPK activity.

Therapeutic application of natural compounds for skeletal muscle-associated metabolic disorders: A review on diabetes perspective

Skeletal muscle (SM) plays a vital role in energy and glucose metabolism by regulating insulin sensitivity, glucose uptake, and blood glucose homeostasis. Impaired SM metabolism is strongly linked to several diseases, particularly type 2 diabetes (T2D). Insulin resistance in SM may result from the impaired activities of insulin receptor tyrosine kinase, insulin receptor substrate 1, phosphoinositide 3-kinase, and AKT pathways. This review briefly discusses SM myogenesis and the critical roles that SM plays in insulin resistance and T2D. The pharmacological targets of T2D which are associated with SM metabolism, such as DPP4, PTB1B, SGLT, PPARγ, and GLP-1R, and their potential modulators/inhibitors, especially natural compounds, are discussed in detail. This review highlights the significance of SM in metabolic disorders and the therapeutic potential of natural compounds in targeting SM-associated T2D targets. It may provide novel insights for the future development of anti-diabetic drug therapies. We believe that scientists working on T2D therapies will benefit from this review by enhancing their knowledge and updating their understanding of the subject.

Six undescribed lavandulylated flavonoids with PTP1B inhibition from the roots of Sophora flavescens

Six undescribed lavandulylated flavonoids (1-6) were isolated from the roots of Sophora flavescens. Remarkably, compounds 1 and 2, which were composed of a flavane unit and a phloroglucinol unit, were the first reported dimers. Compounds 3 and 4 were the first reported neoflavonoids with lavandulyl units. Compounds 5 and 6 were chalcone with oxidized lavandulyl units. Their structures were fully characterized by cumulative analyses of UV, IR, HRESIMS, NMR and ECD spectroscopic data, along with computational calculations through density functional theory. Compounds 1 and 2 showed significant protein tyrosine phosphatase-1B inhibitory activities with IC50 values of 2.669 and 3.596 μM, respectively.

Suppression of inflammation-induced lung cancer cells proliferation and metastasis by exiguaflavanone A and exiguaflavanone B from Sophora exigua root extract through NLRP3 inflammasome pathway inhibition

Objective: Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is recognized for its aggressive nature and propensity for high rates of metastasis. The NLRP3 inflammasome pathway plays a vital role in the progression of NSCLC. This study aimed to investigate the effects of S. exigua extract and its active compounds on NLRP3 regulation in NSCLC using an in vitro model. Methods: S. exigua was extracted using hexane, ethyl acetate and ethanol to obtain S. exigua hexane fraction (SE-Hex), S. exigua ethyl acetate fraction (SE-EA), and S. exigua ethanol fraction (SE-EtOH) respectively. The active compounds were identified using column chromatography and NMR analysis. A549 cells were primed with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) for activated NLRP3 inflammasome. The anti-inflammatory properties were determined using ELISA assay. The anti-proliferation and anti-metastasis properties against LPS-ATP-induced A549 cells were determined by colony formation, cell cycle, wound healing, and trans-well migration and invasion assays. The inflammatory gene expressions and molecular mechanism were determined using RT-qPCR and Western blot analysis, respectively. Results: SE-EA exhibited the greatest anti-inflammation properties compared with other two fractions as evidenced by the significant inhibition of IL-1β, IL-18, and IL-6, cytokine productions from LPS-ATP-induced A549 cells in a dose-dependent manner (p < 0.05). The analysis of active compounds revealed exiguaflavanone A (EGF-A) and exiguaflavanone B (EGF-B) as the major compounds present in SE-EA. Then, SE-EA and its major compound were investigated for the anti-proliferation and anti-metastasis properties. It was found that SE-EA, EGF-A, and EGF-B could inhibit the proliferation of LPS-ATP-induced A549 cells through cell cycle arrest induction at the G0/G1 phase and reducing the expression of cell cycle regulator proteins. Furthermore, SE-EA and its major compounds dose-dependently suppressed migration and invasion of LPS-ATP-induced A549 cells. At the molecular level, SE-EA, EGF-A, and EGF-B significantly downregulated the mRNA expression of IL-1β, IL-18, IL-6, and NLRP3 in LPS-ATP-induced A549 cells. Regarding the mechanistic study, SE-EA, EGF-A, and EGF-B inhibited NLRP3 inflammasome activation through suppressing NLRP3, ASC, pro-caspase-1(p50 form), and cleaved-caspase-1(p20 form) expressions. Conclusion: Targeting NLRP3 inflammasome pathway holds promise as a therapeutic approach to counteract pro-tumorigenic inflammation and develop novel treatments for NSCLC.

Oxymatrine inhibits melanoma development by modulating the immune microenvironment and targeting the MYC/PD-L1 pathway

Oxymatrine, also known as ammothamnine or oxysophoridine, is a natural compound isolated from Sophora flavescens (in Chinese, Kushen), and many previous researchers have characterized its anti-inflammatory, anti-fibrotic and anti-tumor properties. However, the underlying anti-tumor immunological mechanism of oxymatrine remains elusive. In this study, we carried out experiments both in vitro and in vivo and investigated the anti-tumor effect of oxymatrine to inhibit the proliferation and migration of melanoma B16 cells, while promoting apoptosis. Oxymatrine upregulated CD4+ T, CD8+ T and NKT cells, downregulated Treg cells, promoted TNF-α secretion, and successfully modulated the immune microenvironment and ultimately suppressed melanoma development in subcutaneous tumor models established in mice. Evidence from network pharmacology and RNAseq suggested that possible targets of oxymatrine for melanoma treatment included PD-L1 and MYC. We observed oxymatrine inhibited PD-L1 and MYC expression in melanoma cells via qRT-PCR and western blotting analysis, and found MYC potentially regulated PD-L1 to mediate anti-tumor effects. These findings provide insight into the mechanism by which oxymatrine inhibits melanoma and enhances the anti-tumor immune effect. In summary, our study proposes a novel approach to suppress melanoma by targeting the MYC/PD-L1 pathway using oxymatrine, which may develop into a less toxic and more efficient anti-tumor agent for melanoma treatment.

Microbial fortification of pharmacological metabolites in medicinal plants

Medicinal plants are rich in secondary metabolites with beneficial pharmacological effects. The production of plant secondary metabolites is subjected to the influences by environmental factors including the plant-associated microbiome, which is crucial to the host's fitness and survival. As a result, research interests are increasing in exploiting microbial capacities for enhancing plant production of pharmacological metabolites. A growing body of recent research provides accumulating evidence in support of developing microbe-based tools for achieving this objective. This mini review presents brief summaries of recent studies on medicinal plants that demonstrate microbe-augmented production of pharmacological terpenoids, polyphenols, and alkaloids, followed by discussions on some key questions beyond the promising observations. Explicit molecular insights into the underlying mechanisms will enhance microbial applications for metabolic fortification in medicinal plants.

A new modified pterocarpan glycoside from Sophora flavescens

Sophora flavescens is a widely used traditional Chinese herbal medicine. In this work, a new pterocarpan glycoside, kurarinol C (1) together with six known compounds, sophoracarpan A (2), trifohrhizin-6'-monoacetate (3), trifohrhizin (4), maackiain (5), (6S,6aS,11aR）-6α-methoxy-pterocarpin (6), L-maackiain (7) were isolated from the roots of S. flavescens. Among them, compounds 2 and 6 were discovered from S. flavescens for the first time. Their chemical structures were elucidated on the basis of extensive NMR and MS analyses. Furthermore, the antioxidant activities of these compounds were evaluated by the ABTS and DPPH free radical scavenging assay. Three compounds (5, 6, 7) exhibited stronger antioxidant capacity against the ABTS enzyme at 20 µg/mL (scavenging rates > 55%).

Efficacy and mechanism of Baicao Fuyanqing suppository on mixed vaginitis based on 16S rRNA and metabolomics

Background

Mixed vaginitis is the infection of the vagina by at least two different pathogens at the same time, both of which contribute to an abnormal vaginal environment leading to signs and symptoms. Baicao Fuyanqing suppository (BCFYQ) is a Miao ethnomedicine, used to treat various vaginitis. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy and possible mechanism of BCFYQ in the treatment of mixed vaginitis based on 16S rRNA high-throughput sequencing and metabonomics.

Methods

Escherichia coli and Candida albicans were used to establish mixed vaginitis model in SD rats. Three groups of low, medium and high doses (0.18/0.36/0.64 g.kg-1) were established, and administered vaginally once a day for 6 consecutive days. After the last administration, vaginal pH and IL-1β, IL-2, IL-13 and IgA levels were measured, and the vaginal tissue was examined pathologically. In addition, the vaginal flora was characterised by 16S rRNA, and endogenous metabolites in the vaginal tissue were detected by UHPLC-Q-Exactive MS.

Results

Compared with the model group, BCFYQ can reduce the vaginal pH of rats, make it close to the normal group and improve the damaged vaginal epithelial tissue. The results of ELISA showed that BCFYQ decreased the levels of IL-1 β and IL-2 and increased the levels of IL-13 and IgA (P<0.05). In addition, BCFYQ may increase the abundance of vaginal flora, especially Lactobacillus. The differential metabolite enrichment pathway suggests that the therapeutic mechanism of BCFYQ is mainly related to lipid metabolism and amino acid metabolism.

Conclusion

Our research shows that BCFYQ has a good therapeutic effect on mixed vaginitis. It repairs the damaged vaginal mucosa by regulating the vaginal flora and lipid metabolism disorders to improve the local immune function of the vagina and inhibit the growth and reproduction of pathogens.

In vivo antibacterial activity of medicinal plant Sophora flavescens against Streptococcus agalactiae infection

Streptococcosis disease caused by Streptococcus agalactiae (Group B Streptococcus, GBS) results in a huge economic loss of tilapia culture. It is urgent to find new antimicrobial agents against streptococcosis. In this study, 20 medicinal plants were evaluated in vitro and in vivo to obtain medicinal plants and potential bioactive compounds against GBS infection. The results showed that the ethanol extracts of 20 medicinal plants had low or no antibacterial properties in vitro, with a minimal inhibitory concentration ≥256 mg/L. Interestingly, in vivo tests showed that 7 medicinal plants could significantly inhibit GBS infection in tilapia, and Sophora flavescens (SF) had the strongest anti-GBS activity in tilapia, reaching 92.68%. SF could significantly reduce the bacterial loads of GBS in different tissues (liver, spleen and brain) of tilapia after treated with different tested concentrations (12.5, 25.0, 50.0 and 100.0 mg/kg) for 24 h. Moreover, 50 mg/kg SF could significantly improve the survival rate of GBS-infected tilapia by inhibiting GBS replication. Furthermore, the expression of antioxidant gene cat, immune-related gene c-type lysozyme and anti-inflammatory cytokine il-10 in liver tissue of GBS-infected tilapia significantly increased after treated with SF for 24 h. Meanwhile, SF significantly reduced the expression of immune-related gene myd88 and pro-inflammatory cytokines il-8 and il-1β in liver tissue of GBS-infected tilapia. The negative and positive models of UPLC-QE-MS, respectively, identified 27 and 57 components of SF. The major components of SF extract in the negative model were α, α-trehalose, DL-malic acid, D- (-)-fructose and xanthohumol, while in the positive model were oxymatrine, formononetin, (-)-maackiain and xanthohumol. Interestingly, oxymatrine and xanthohumol could significantly inhibit GBS infection in tilapia. Taken together, these results suggest that SF can inhibit GBS infection in tilapia, and it has potential for the development of anti-GBS agents.

Chromosomal level genome assembly of medicinal plant Sophora flavescens

Sophora flavescens is a medicinal plant in the genus Sophora of the Fabaceae family. The root of S. flavescens is known in China as Kushen and has a long history of wide use in multiple formulations of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). In this study, we used third-generation Nanopore long-read sequencing technology combined with Hi-C scaffolding technology to de novo assemble the S. flavescens genome. We obtained a chromosomal level high-quality S. flavescens draft genome. The draft genome size is approximately 2.08 Gb, with more than 80% annotated as Transposable Elements (TEs), which have recently and rapidly proliferated. This genome size is ~5x larger than its closest sequenced relative Lupinus albus L. . We annotated 60,485 genes and examined their expression profiles in leaf, stem and root tissues, and also characterised the genes and pathways involved in the biosynthesis of major bioactive compounds, including alkaloids, flavonoids and isoflavonoids. The assembled genome highlights the very different evolutionary trajectories that have occurred in recently diverged Fabaceae, leading to smaller duplicated genomes.

Efficacy and safety of Runzao Zhiyang capsule for chronic urticaria: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Background: Chronic urticaria (CU) is a commonly seen skin disorder featured by recurring wheals, with or without angioedema, lasting for at least 6 weeks. Runzao Zhiyang capsule (RZC) has been widely applied to treat patients with CU. This study is aimed at systematically evaluating the efficacy and safety of RZC in treating CU. Materials and Methods: Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of RZC on treating CU from Chinese and English databases were searched. Data were collected by two independent researchers. The Cochrane Collaboration tool was adopted for evaluating the risk of bias. The meta-analysis was performed with Review Manager 5.3 software. Sensitivity analysis and publication bias assessment were conducted by Stata 14.0 software. Results: Totally 27 studies were included in the analysis, involving 2,703 patients. The pooled results showed that compared with second-generation H1-antihistamines (sgAHs) therapy alone, RZC combined with sgAHs is more effective in improving the total effective rate (RR = 1.32, 95% CI: 1.25 to 1.39, p < 0.00001), the quality of life measured by Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) (MD = -2.63, 95% CI: -3.68 to -1.58, p < 0.00001) and the serum IFN-γ level (SMD = 3.10, 95% CI: 1.58 to 4.62, p < 0.0001), and reducing the recurrence rate (RR = 0.39, 95% CI: 0.27 to 0.55, p < 0.00001), the serum total IgE level (SMD = -2.44, 95% CI: -3.51 to -1.38, p < 0.00001), the serum IL-4 level (SMD = -2.96, 95% CI: -4.10 to -1.83, p < 0.00001), and the incidence of adverse events including dizziness, fatigue, dry mouth, and constipation (RR = 0.53, 95% CI: 0.33 to 0.85, p = 0.009; RR = 0.46, 95% CI: 0.26 to 0.84, p = 0.01; RR = 0.57, 95% CI: 0.34 to 0.95, p = 0.03; RR = 0.24, 95% CI: 0.07 to 0.85, p = 0.03). Conclusion: The current evidence indicates that RZC may be an efficient therapeutic regimen in patients with CU. Nevertheless, owing to the suboptimal quality of the included studies, more large-scale, well-designed RCTs are required to verify the obtained findings. Systematic Review Registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/; Identifier: CRD42022313177.

Natural-Product-Derived Adjunctive Treatments to Conventional Therapy and Their Immunoregulatory Activities in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an invasive and persistent subtype of breast cancer that is likely to be resistant to conventional treatments. The rise in immunotherapy has created new modalities to treat cancer, but due to high costs and unreliable efficacy, adjunctive and complementary treatments have sparked interest in enhancing the efficacy of currently available treatments. Natural products, which are bioactive compounds derived from natural sources, have historically been used to treat or ameliorate inflammatory diseases and symptoms. As TNBC patients have shown little to no response to immunotherapy, the potential of natural products as candidates for adjuvant immunotherapy is being explored, as well as their immunomodulatory effects on cancer. Due to the complexity of TNBC and the ever-changing tumor microenvironment, there are challenges in determining the feasibility of using natural products to enhance the efficacy or counteract the toxicity of conventional treatments. In view of technological advances in molecular docking, pharmaceutical networking, and new drug delivery systems, natural products show promise as potential candidates in adjunctive therapy. In this article, we summarize the mechanisms of action of selected natural-product-based bioactive compounds and analyze their roles and applications in combination treatments and immune regulation.

MAT as a promising therapeutic strategy against triple-negative breast cancer via inhibiting PI3K/AKT pathway

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), a highly aggressive and heterogeneous subtype of breast cancer, lacks effective treatment options. Sophora flavescens Aiton, a Chinese medicinal plant, is often used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat cancer. Matrine (MAT) is an alkaloid extracted from Sophora flavescens. It has good anticancer effects, and thus can be explored as a new therapeutic agent in TNBC research. We performed bioinformatics analysis to analyze the differentially expressed genes between normal breast tissues and TNBC tissues, and comprehensive network pharmacology analyses. The activity and invasion ability of TNBC cells treated with MAT were analyzed. Apoptosis and cell cycle progression were determined using cytometry. We used Monodansylcadaverine (MDC) staining to determine the condition of autophagosomes. Finally, the expression levels of the key target proteins of the PI3K/AKT pathway were determined using western blotting. The proliferation and invasion ability of MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 can be effectively inhibited by MAT. The results of flow cytometry indicated that MAT arrested the TNBC cell cycle and induced apoptosis. In addition, we confirmed that MAT inhibited the expression of BCL-2 while up-regulating the expression of cleaved caspase-3. Moreover, enhanced intensity of MDC staining and high LC3-II expression were observed, which confirmed that MAT induced autophagy in TNBC cells. Western blotting showed that MAT inhibited the PI3K/AKT pathway and downregulated the expressions of PI3K, AKT, p-AKT, and PGK1. This study provides feasible methods, which include bioinformatics analysis and in vitro experiments, for the identification of compounds with anti-TNBC properties. MAT inhibited the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, arrested cell cycle, as well as promoted cell apoptosis and autophagy. These experiments provide evidence for the anti-TNBC effect of MAT and identified potential targets against TNBC.

Antimicrobial Effects of Sophora flavescens Alkaloids on Metronidazole-Resistant Gardnerella vaginalis in Planktonic and Biofilm Conditions

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common infectious disease of the lower female reproductive tract, which is characterized by the augmentation of anaerobic bacteria. Gardnerella (G.) vaginalis plays a predominant role in BV recurrence relating to its higher virulence potential and biofilm formation ability. With the increased proportion of metronidazole-resistant G. vaginalis, controlling resistance to metronidazole and finding more effective drugs became a major concern. In this study, 30 clinical strains were cultured from the vaginal secretions of BV patients, followed by PCR and 16S rDNA sequencing identification. According to the CLSI guidelines for anaerobic drug sensitivity testing, 19 strains were identified as metronidazole-resistant (minimum inhibitory concentration, MIC ≥ 32 μg/mL), of which 4 clinical strains were observed to be strong biofilm producer and the final minimum biofilm inhibitory concentration (MBIC) of metronidazole was increased to 512 μg/mL. Sophora flavescens Alkaloids (SFAs), a traditional chinese medicine, could not only inhibit the growth of metronidazole-resistant G. vaginalis in planktonic (MIC: 0.3125-1.25 mg/mL), but also eliminate the biofilm formation (MBIC: 0.625-1.25 mg/mL). In the high-magnification scanning electron, it was observed that the morphology of biofilm changed from a thick to flaky shape and was nearly depleted. These results indicate that SFAs could not only inhibit the growth of metronidazole-resistant G. vaginalisin planktonic and biofilm levels, but also destroyed the biofilm morphology and microstructure, which may contribute to the prevention of BV recurrence.

Biochemical Targets and Molecular Mechanism of Matrine against Aging

The aim of this study is to explore the potential targets and molecular mechanism of matrine (MAT) against aging. Bioinformatic-based network pharmacology was used to investigate the aging-related targets and MAT-treated targets. A total of 193 potential genes of MAT against aging were obtained and then the top 10 key genes (cyclin D1, cyclin-dependent kinase 1, Cyclin A2, androgen receptor, Poly [ADP-ribose] polymerase-1 (PARP1), histone-lysine N-methyltransferase, albumin, mammalian target of rapamycin, histone deacetylase 2, and matrix metalloproteinase 9) were filtered by the molecular complex detection, maximal clique centrality (MMC) algorithm, and degree. The Metascape tool was used for analyzing biological processes and pathways of the top 10 key genes. The main biological processes were response to an inorganic substance and cellular response to chemical stress (including cellular response to oxidative stress). The major pathways were involved in cellular senescence and the cell cycle. After an analysis of major biological processes and pathways, it appears that PARP1/nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD⁺)-mediated cellular senescence may play an important role in MAT against aging. Molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulation, and in vivo study were used for further investigation. MAT could interact with the cavity of the PARP1 protein with the binding energy at -8.5 kcal/mol. Results from molecular dynamics simulations showed that the PARP1-MAT complex was more stable than PARP1 alone and that the binding-free energy of the PARP1-MAT complex was -15.962 kcal/mol. The in vivo study showed that MAT could significantly increase the NAD⁺ level of the liver of d-gal-induced aging mice. Therefore, MAT could interfere with aging through the PARP1/NAD⁺-mediated cellular senescence signaling pathway.

Sophflarine A, a novel matrine-derived alkaloid from Sophora flavescens with therapeutic potential for non-small cell lung cancer through ROS-mediated pyroptosis and autophagy

BACKGROUND

Novel compounds and more efficient treatment options are urgently needed for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The decoction of Sophora flavescens has been used to treat NSCLC in the clinic, and matrine-type alkaloids are generally considered to be the key pharmacodynamic material basis. But the previous study showed that common matrine-type alkaloids exhibit significant cytotoxicity only when at concentrations close to the millimolar (mM) level. The key antitumor alkaloids in S. flavescens seem to have not yet been revealed.

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to screen water-soluble matrine alkaloid with novel skeleton and enhanced activity from S. flavescens, and to reveal the pharmacological mechanism of its therapeutic effect on NSCLC.

METHODS

Alkaloid was obtained from S. flavescens by chromatographic separation methods. The structure of alkaloid was determined by spectroscopic methods, and single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The mechanism of anti-NSCLC in vitro with cellular models was evaluated by MTT assay, western blotting, cell migration and invasion assay, plate colony-formation assay, tube formation assay, immunohistochemistry assay, hematoxylin and eosin staining. The antitumor efficacy in vivo was test in NSCLC xenograft models.

RESULTS

A novel water-soluble matrine-derived alkaloid incorporating 6/8/6/6 tetracyclic ring system, named sophflarine A (SFA), was isolated from the roots of S. flavescens. SFA had significantly enhanced cytotoxicity compared with the common matrine-type alkaloids, having an IC₅₀ value of 11.3 μM in A549 and 11.5 μM in H820 cells at 48 h. Mechanistically, SFA promoted NSCLC cell death by inducing pyroptosis via activating the NLRP3/caspase-1/GSDMD signaling pathway, and inhibited cancer cell proliferation by increasing the ROS production to activate autophagy via blocking the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. Additionally, SFA also inhibited NSCLC cell migration and invasion by suppressing EMT pathway, and inhibited cancer cell colony formation and human umbilical vein endothelial cell angiogenesis. In concordance with the above results, SFA treatment blocked tumor growth in an A549 cell-bearing orthotopic mouse model.

CONCLUSION

This study revealed a potential therapeutic mechanism of a novel matrine-derived alkaloid, which not only described a rational explanation for the clinical utilization of S. flavescens, but also provided a potential candidate compound for NSCLC treatment.

Complexation of Apigenin and Oxymatrine Leading to Enhanced Anti-inflammatory Activity

Apigenin (APG) is a well-known dietary flavonoid with multiple bioactivities, but its poor aqueous solubility may result in low oral bioavailability and thus compromised therapeutic effects. In the present study, APG was complexed with oxymatrine (OMT), a natural quinolizidine alkaloid, for enhanced anti-inflammatory activity, and the related mechanisms in the interaction of APG with OMT were investigated. Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy characterizations demonstrated the occurrence of an APG-OMT complex formed at a molar ratio of 1:2. Then, molecular dynamics simulations and quantum chemical calculations were utilized to elucidate that hydrogen bonding, van der Waals forces, and hydrophobic effects were the main forces acting in the formation of the APG-OMT complex. Pharmacokinetic studies in rats demonstrated that the oral bioavailability of APG in the APG-OMT complex was significantly higher than that of APG alone. Finally, bioactivity evaluation in the lipopolysaccharide-induced acute inflammatory injury mouse models showed that the APG-OMT complex exhibited more potent anti-inflammatory effects than APG alone. This study confirmed that APG and OMT exerted enhanced anti-inflammatory effects through self-complexation, which may provide a novel strategy for improving the bioavailability and bioactivity of natural product mixtures.

A novel type lavandulyl flavonoid from Sophora flavescens as potential anti-hepatic injury agent that inhibit TLR2/NF-κB signaling pathway

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY RELEVANCE

Sophora flavescens Aiton, was a crucial source of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that has benefited human health for hundreds of years. Alkaloids and flavonoids were the major bioactive constituents from S. flavescens, which had been widely used for liver disease treatment in China. However, the liver-protective components of flavonoids from S. flavescens and their mechanism of action were not clear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This work aimed to evaluate the in vitro hepatoprotective activities of 35 flavonoids from S. flavescens and screen active compounds. Furthermore, it was conducted to demonstrate the hepatoprotective effects of a new active compound (kurarinol A, 1) was isolated by authors and the ethyl acetate (EtOAc) extract form S. flavescens against carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄)-induced hepatic injury in Kunming (KM) mice, meanwhile revealed the potential mechanism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The 35 flavonoids from S. flavescens were co-incubated with HepG2 cells and treated with 0.35% CCl₄ for 6 h cell viability was measured by (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium, inner salt) (MTS) assay. Then, in vivo animal experiments, the activities of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) in the serum were analyzed, the degree of hepatic injury was examined using hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) staining, the mRNA expression of Superoxide Dismutase 2 (SOD2), Nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1), Interleukin 6 (IL-6), Tumor Necrosis Factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and the protein levels of nuclear factor-kappa B p65/p-p65 (NF-κB p65/p-p65), toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2), IL-1β and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2) in hepatic tissues were detected.

RESULTS

The lavandulyl flavonoid (kurarinol A, 1) and the EtOAc extract from S. flavescens showed protective effects on CCl₄-injured HepG2 cells, increasing cell viability from 24.5% to 61.3% and 91.8%, respectively. What's more, we found that treatment with kurarinol A (1) and the EtOAc extract lead to a significant reduction in hepatotoxicity in response to acute CCl₄ exposure. Compared with the model group, experimental results exhibited kurarinol A (10 mg/kg, i.p.) and the EtOAc extract (300 mg/kg, i.p.) could decrease the levels of AST, ALT, ALP and tissue damage. Further mechanistic investigations revealed that up-regulated the mRNA expression of SOD2, Nrf2, OH-1 and down-regulated the IL-1β in liver tissues, respectively. Additionally, Western blot analyses elucidated that inhibition of IL-1β, TLR2, COX-2, NF-κB (p65/p-p65) via TLR2/NF-κB signaling pathway by kurarinol A and the EtOAc extract contribute to its hepatoprotective activity.

CONCLUSION

These findings demonstrated that the novel compound (kurarinol A, 1) possessed notable hepatoprotective activity against CCl₄. It was confirmed that kurarinol A had a certain effect on mice with liver damage induced by CCl₄, and its mechanism could be include inhibiting inflammation and reducing of oxidative stress reaction by regulating expression of related genes and proteins. Thus, kurarinol A could as a novel active agent that contributes to the hepatoprotective activity of S. flavescens for the treatment of live injury.

Hyperforin regulates renal fibrosis via targeting the PI3K-AKT/ICAM1 axis

OBJECTIVE

To explore the role and mechanism of hyperforin (one of the active components of Sophora flavescens) in renal fibrosis.

METHODS

The active compounds and target proteins of Sophora flavescens were first screened through TCMSP (https://tcmsp-e.com/). The renal fibrosis-related genes were analyzed through GeneCards (https://www.genecards.org/). The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in renal fibrosis in GEO dataset GSE156181 were obtained. Metascape was applied for target protein enrichment analysis. TGF-β1-stimulated renal tubular epithelial cells were used for renal fibrosis cell model establishment. The unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) mouse model was used for the renal fibrosis in vivo model. Cell viability was detected using an MTT assay. Immunofluorescence staining was employed to detect cell morphology changes and the expression of α-SMA and collagen I. Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and Masson staining were employed to determine the renal morphologic change. qRT-PCR or Western blotting was applied to determine the expression levels of the target proteins.

RESULTS

After intersecting the analysis results of TCMSP, GeneCards, and dataset GSE156181, hyperforin targeting ICAM1 was identified. Metascape pathway enrichment analysis results revealed that the effective compounds of Sophora flavescens were tightly associated with extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling and inflammatory response. MTT assay demonstrated that hyperforin had no toxic effect on cells. Immunofluorescence staining results evidenced that hyperforin could partially restore TGF-β1-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), the PI3K/AKT pathway activation, and ICAM1 upregulation, and these effects of hyperforin could be reversed by ICAM1 overexpression. While the PI3K/AKT pathway activator IGF-1 effectively reversed the EMT inhibition effect of hyperforin on renal tubular epithelial cells. Moreover, the UUO mouse model further confirmed that hyperforin reduced renal fibrosis.

CONCLUSION

Hyperforin inhibited renal fibrosis via the PI3K/AKT/ICAM1 axis.

Sophora flavescens Aiton methanol extract exerts anti-inflammatory effects via reduction of Src kinase phosphorylation

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Sophora flavescens Aiton (Family: Leguminosae), an herbal plant, has been used in East Asian home remedies for centuries for treating ulcers, skin burns, fevers, and inflammatory disorders. In addition, the dried root of S. flavescens was also applied for antipyretic, analgesic, antihelmintic, and stomachic uses.

AIM OF STUDY

Nonetheless, how this plant can show various pharmacological activities including anti-inflammatory responses was not fully elucidated. In this study, therefore, we aimed to investigate the curative effects of S. flavescens on inflammation and its molecular mechanism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

For reaching this aim, various in vitro and in vivo experimental models with LPS-treated RAW264.7 cells, HCl/EtOH-induced gastric ulcer, and LPS-triggered lung injury conditions were employed and anti-inflammatory activity of S. flavescens methanol extract (Sf-ME) was also tested. Fingerprinting profile of Sf-ME was identified via LC-MS analysis. Its anti-inflammatory molecular mechanism was also examined by immunoblotting analysis.

RESULTS

Nitric oxide production and mRNA expression levels of iNOS, COX-2, IL-1β, and TNF-α were decreased. Additionally, phosphorylation of Src in the signaling cascade was decreased, and activities of the transcriptional factor NF-κB were reduced as determined by a luciferase reporter assay. Moreover, in vivo, gastritis and lung injury lesions were attenuated by Sf-ME.

CONCLUSION

Taken together, these findings suggest that Sf-ME could be a potential anti-inflammatory therapeutic agent via suppression of Src kinase activity and regulation of IL-1β secretion.

Phylogeny, biogeography, and character evolution of the genus Sophora s.l. (Fabaceae, Papilionoideae)

The papilionoid legume genus Sophora (Fabaceae) exhibits a worldwide distribution, but a phylogenetic framework to understand the evolution of this group is lacking to date. Previous studies have demonstrated that Sophora is not monophyletic and might include Ammodendron, Ammothamnus, and Echinosophora, but the relationships among these four genera (defined as Sophora s.l.) are unclear. Here we used a nuclear DNA dataset (ETS, ITS, SQD1) and a plastid DNA dataset (matK, rbcL, rpl32-trnL, trnL-F) of 654 accession sequences to reconstruct the phylogenetic relationships, estimate the divergence times and ancestral range of Sophora s.l., and infer the evolution of chromosome number and morphological characteristics. Our major aim was to reconstruct phylogenetic relationships to test monophyly and elucidate relationships within the genus. Our results indicated that Ammodendron, Ammothamnus, and Echinosophora are embedded within Sophora s.s. and that nine well-supported clades can be recognized within comprise Sophora s.l. Ancestral character state estimation revealed that the most recent common ancestor of Sophora s.l. was a deciduous shrub that lacks rhizome spines and has unwinged legumes. Divergence times estimation and ancestral area reconstruction showed that Sophora s.l. originated in Central Asia and/or adjacent Southeast China in the early Oligocene (ca. 31 Mya) and dispersed from these regions into East and South Asia's adjacent areas and North America via the Bering land bridge. The analyses also supported a South American origin for S. sect. Edwardsia, which experienced rapid radiation with its major lineages diversifying over a relatively narrow timescale (8 Mya).

Oxymatrine-fatty acid deep eutectic solvents as novel penetration enhancers for transdermal drug delivery: formation mechanism and enhancing effect

Transdermal delivery of drugs is commonly limited by low skin permeability. The aim of the study was to synthesize deep eutectic solvents (DESs) based on oxymatrine (OMT) and fatty acids with various alkyl chain lengths (LCFAs) as novel vehicles, to solubilize the water-insoluble drug and enhance percutaneous penetration. Quercetin (QUE) was selected as a model drug. Combining differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and molecular simulations demonstrated that the formation of DESs was mediated by charge-assisted hydrogen bonding. Physicochemical properties including stability, viscosity, and solubilization capacity were also studied. Subsequently, the effect of three stable DESs on drug release and skin permeability was evaluated. The results showed that QUE was solubilized well and presented a different sustained release behavior in DESs. Meanwhile, DESs enhanced the skin permeation of OMT and QUE, which was influenced by alkyl chain lengths of LCFAs, whereas DES consisting of lauric acid (LA) exhibited the highest enhancing effect. FTIR, DSC, and molecular docking further demonstrated consistency between micro molecular mechanism and macro penetration behavior. Additionally, HaCaT cells treated with DESs showed high cell viability, suggesting their good skin safety. Taken together, OMT-LCFA DESs would be a promising penetration enhancer for transdermal drug delivery, which also provides guidance for the design of new DESs.

Understanding the Potential Role of Nanotechnology in Liver Fibrosis: A Paradigm in Therapeutics

The liver is a vital organ that plays a crucial role in the physiological operation of the human body. The liver controls the body's detoxification processes as well as the storage and breakdown of red blood cells, plasma protein and hormone production, and red blood cell destruction; therefore, it is vulnerable to their harmful effects, making it more prone to illness. The most frequent complications of chronic liver conditions include cirrhosis, fatty liver, liver fibrosis, hepatitis, and illnesses brought on by alcohol and drugs. Hepatic fibrosis involves the activation of hepatic stellate cells to cause persistent liver damage through the accumulation of cytosolic matrix proteins. The purpose of this review is to educate a concise discussion of the epidemiology of chronic liver disease, the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of liver fibrosis, the symptoms of liver fibrosis progression and regression, the clinical evaluation of liver fibrosis and the research into nanotechnology-based synthetic and herbal treatments for the liver fibrosis is summarized in this article. The herbal remedies summarized in this review article include epigallocathechin-3-gallate, silymarin, oxymatrine, curcumin, tetrandrine, glycyrrhetinic acid, salvianolic acid, plumbagin, Scutellaria baicalnsis Georgi, astragalosides, hawthorn extract, and andrographolides.

Flavonoids from the Roots of Sophora flavescens and Their Potential Anti-Inflammatory and Antiproliferative Activities

The phytochemical investigation of the roots of the traditional Chinese medicinal plant Sophora flavescens led to the isolation of two novel prenylflavonoids with an unusual cyclohexyl substituent instead of the common aromatic ring B, named 4',4'-dimethoxy-sophvein (17) and sophvein-4'-one (18), and 34 known compounds (1-16, 19-36). The structures of these chemical compounds were determined by spectroscopic techniques, including 1D-, 2D-NMR, and HRESIMS data. Furthermore, evaluations of nitric oxide (NO) production inhibitory activity against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated RAW264.7 cells indicated that some compounds exhibited obvious inhibition effects, with IC₅₀ ranged from 4.6 ± 1.1 to 14.4 ± 0.4 μM. Moreover, additional research demonstrated that some compounds inhibited the growth of HepG2 cells, with an IC₅₀ ranging from 0.46 ± 0.1 to 48.6 ± 0.8 μM. These results suggest that flavonoid derivatives from the roots of S. flavescens can be used as a latent source of antiproliferative or anti-inflammatory agents.

Systematic elucidation of the bioactive alkaloids and potential mechanism from Sophora flavescens for the treatment of eczema via network pharmacology

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY RELEVANCE

Sophora flavescens is a frequently used traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for the treatment of skin disorders, diarrhea, vaginal itching and inflammatory diseases. In particular, the root of S. flavescens combination with other herbs mainly treat eczema ailment in the clinical applications. However, a holistic network pharmacology approach to understanding the mechanism by which alkaloids in S. flavescens treat eczema has not been pursued.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To examine the network pharmacological potential effect of S. flavescens on eczema, we studied the alkaloids, performed protein targets prediction and investigated interacting signal pathways. Furthermore, animal experiment was carried out to evaluate its efficacy and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reactions (RT-qPCR) analysis was explored the mechanism of action.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The detail information on alkaloids from S. flavescens were obtained from a handful of public databases on the basis of oral bioavailability (OB ≥ 30%) and drug-likeness (DL ≥ 0.18). Then, correlations between compounds and protein targets were linked using the STRING database, and targets associated with eczema were gathered by the GeneCards database. Human genes were identified and subjected to Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis and Gene Ontology (GO) functional enrichment analysis. Particularly, matrine, the crucial alkaloid from S. flavescens, was estimated using a 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB)-induced eczema Kunming (KM) mice model, administered (50 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg) to mice for 22 days. On the last day, the activities of serum tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukin-4 (IL-4) and histopathologic examinations were determined. For further to elucidate the mechanisms, the mRNA levels of TNF-α, STAT3, TP53, AKT1, IL-6, JUN and EGFR in dorsal skin tissues were also tested.

RESULTS

Network analysis collected and identified 35 alkaloids from S. flavescens. Among them, in total 10 dominating alkaloids, including matrine, oxymatrine, sophoridine, sophocarpine, oxysophocarpine, allomatrine, sophoramine, anagyrine, cytisine and N-methylcytisine. And 71 related targets were provided of alkaloids for the treatment of eczema from S. flavescens. Furthermore, matrine dose-dependently (50 or 10 mg/kg, 22 days, apply to dorsal skin) remarkable decreased the serum levels of TNF-α and IL-4, and significantly alleviated the skin lesions. The effects of 50 mg/kg of matrine were almost identical to those of 200 mg/kg of the positive drug dexamethasone (DXM). The further RT-qPCR analyses could reveal that matrine down-regulate TNF-α, STAT3 and TP53 at transcriptional level in dorsal skin tissues.

CONCLUSION

Pharmacological network analysis can utilize to illuminate the pharmacodynamic substances and the potential molecular mechanism of S. flavescens for treating eczema. Matrine, as the crucial alkaloid from S. flavescens, could be a promising drug candidate for the treatment of eczema ailment.

Insecticidal Activities of Sophora flavescens Alt. towards Red Imported Fire Ants (Solenopsis invicta Buren)

The red imported fire ant (Solenopsis invicta) is a worldwide invasive and dangerous insect that is controlled mainly by chemical insecticides. Plant-derived insecticidal compounds are generally better than synthetic insecticides for environmental compatibility and the biosafety of non-targets. The toxicity of the ethanol extract of Sophora flavescens roots against S. invicta was evaluated under laboratory conditions. The ethanol extract showed toxicity against minor and medium workers of S. invicta with 7-day LC₅₀ values of 1426.25 and 2292.60 mg/L, respectively. By bioactivity-directed chromatographic separations using the minor worker as the test insect, two active compounds, matrine and sophocarpine, were isolated from the S. flavescens total alkaloids; their chemical structure was identified by ¹³C NMR data. Matrine showed toxicities against minor and medium workers with 7-day LC₅₀ values of 46.77 and 71.49 mg/L, respectively, and for sophocarpine, 50.08 and 85.87 mg/L, respectively. The two compounds could substantially reduce the foraging response, food consumption, and aggregation of S. invicta workers at a sublethal concentration of 15 mg/L. The present research suggests that S. flavescens roots have potential as a natural control agent for red imported fire ants.

Acute and 13 weeks subchronic toxicological evaluation of the flavonoid-rich extract of Sophora flavescens

The roots of Sophora flavescens have a long history of use in Chinese medicine for the treatment of various medical conditions. Flavonoids from the ethyl acetate extract of S. flavescens have shown anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antidiabetic properties. The objective of this study was to evaluate the toxicological profile of a flavonoid-rich extract of S. flavescens (SFEA). We conducted acute and sub-chronic oral toxicity studies of SFEA in Kunming (KM) mice and Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats. Acute oral administration of 9.0 g/kg SFEA did not result in mortality, clinical signs of toxicity, or abnormal changes in the body weight or food consumption patterns. No significant changes in hematological, blood biochemical, or histopathological parameters were observed. A 13-week sub-chronic toxicity study was conducted in SD rats; the rats were orally administrated with various doses of SFEA (in mg/kg): 0 (control), 40, 80, 400, 800, and 1200. Mortality, clinical signs, or treatment-related changes in body weight, food consumption, hematological parameters, blood biochemical parameters, organ weights, or histopathological parameters were not observed. We found that SFEA is practically nontoxic to KM mice at a dose of 9.0 g/kg and that the no-observed-adverse-effect-level (NOAEL) of SFEA in SD rats is greater than 1200 mg/kg.

Effect of matrine in MAC-T cells and their transcriptome analysis: A basic study

Matrine, an alkaloid derived from herbal medicine, has a wide range of biological activities, including antibacterial. Matrine was toxic to multiple cells at high concentrations. Bovine mammary epithelial cells (MAC-T) could be used as model cells for cow breast. Matrine was a feasible option to replace antibiotics in the prevention or treatment of mastitis against the background of prohibiting antibiotics, but the safe concentration of matrine on MAC-T cells and the mechanism of action for matrine at different concentrations were still unclear. In this study, different concentrations of matrine (0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5 and 3 mg/mL) were used to treat MAC-T cells for various time periods (4, 8, 12, 16 and 24 h) and measure their lactic dehydrogenase (LDH). And then the optimal doses (2 mg/mL) were chosen to detect the apoptosis at various time periods by flow cytometry and transcriptome analysis was performed between the control and 2 mg/mL matrine-treated MAC-T cells for 8 hours. The results showed that matrine was not cytotoxic at 0.5 mg/mL, but it was cytotoxic at 1~3 mg/mL. In addition, matrine induced apoptosis in MAC-T cells at 2 mg/mL and the proportion of apoptosis cells increases with time by flow cytometry. RNA-seq analysis identified 1645 DEGs, 676 of which were expressed up-regulated and 969 were expressed down-regulated. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis indicated the following pathways were linked to matrine-induced toxicity and apoptosis, including cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction pathway, viral protein interaction with cytokine and cytokine receptor, P53 and PPAR pathway. We found 7 DEGs associated with matrine toxicity and apoptosis. This study would provide a basis for the safety of matrine in the prevention or treatment of mastitis.