1
|
Tian M, Ma X, Lu Q, Xue G, Li L, Wu A, Zang H, Nie L. Study on the mechanism of ischemic stroke treatment based on network pharmacology and Raman spectroscopy in the larval zebrafish model, Calculus Bovis as a case. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 141:112914. [PMID: 39181017 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2024] [Revised: 07/31/2024] [Accepted: 08/06/2024] [Indexed: 08/27/2024]
Abstract
Calculus Bovis (C. bovis) is a precious traditional Chinese medicine of animal origin, and it is one of the traditional medicines for treating cerebral inflammatory diseases such as stroke. However, the pharmacological action of C. bovis on ischemic stroke (IS) and its mechanism are still unclear. The purpose of this study was to investigate the potential mechanism to treat IS. Chemical constituents of different varieties of C. bovis were analyzed and confirmed by HPLC-MS/MS technique. We constructed a component and corresponding target network and drug-disease target protein-protein interaction (PPI) network. GO and KEGG enrichment analysis were performed. The molecular docking of the main compound with the target protein. Subsequently, the potential mechanism of therapy for IS was verified in vivo by zebrafish model. We introduced Raman spectroscopy to detect changes in the biochemical composition of zebrafish. 13 active chemical constituents and 129 potential targets were selected. 122 KEGG signaling pathways were obtained. The binding energy of the main compounds is less than -4.5. The results of animal experiments showed that C. bovis could significantly improve Ponatinib-induced IS, decrease the aggregation degree of brain macrophages, reduce the number of macrophage migrations, and significantly increase the expression level of NR3C1. Raman information indicated that the biochemical composition in the brain of the Ponatinib-induced group shifted to the control group. The mechanism may be related to anti-inflammatory process and regulation of lipid metabolism. This study demonstrates that Raman spectroscopy has great potential as a drug evaluation tool in living larval zebrafish.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mengyin Tian
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Technology Research and Evaluation of Drug Products, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; National Glycoengineering Research Center, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Xiaobo Ma
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Technology Research and Evaluation of Drug Products, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; National Glycoengineering Research Center, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Qingqing Lu
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Technology Research and Evaluation of Drug Products, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; National Glycoengineering Research Center, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Gao Xue
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Technology Research and Evaluation of Drug Products, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; National Glycoengineering Research Center, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Lian Li
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Technology Research and Evaluation of Drug Products, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; National Glycoengineering Research Center, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Aoli Wu
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Technology Research and Evaluation of Drug Products, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; National Glycoengineering Research Center, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Hengchang Zang
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Technology Research and Evaluation of Drug Products, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; National Glycoengineering Research Center, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China.
| | - Lei Nie
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Technology Research and Evaluation of Drug Products, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; National Glycoengineering Research Center, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Kathuria I, Singla B. Anti-tumor efficacy of Calculus bovis: Suppressing liver cancer by targeting tumor-associated macrophages. World J Gastroenterol 2024; 30:4249-4253. [DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v30.i38.4249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2024] [Revised: 09/10/2024] [Accepted: 09/18/2024] [Indexed: 09/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite significant advances in our understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of liver cancer and the availability of novel pharmacotherapies, liver cancer remains the fourth leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Tumor relapse, resistance to current anti-cancer drugs, metastasis, and organ toxicity are the major challenges that prevent considerable improvements in patient survival and quality of life. Calculus bovis (CB), an ancient Chinese medicinal drug, has been used to treat various pathologies, including stroke, convulsion, epilepsy, pain, and cancer. In this editorial, we discuss the research findings recently published by Huang et al on the therapeutic effects of CB in inhibiting the development of liver cancer. Utilizing the comprehensive transcriptomic analyses, in vitro experiments, and in vivo studies, the authors demonstrated that CB treatment inhibits the tumor-promoting M2 phenotype of tumor-associated macrophages via downregulating Wnt pathway. While multiple studies have been performed to explore the molecular mechanisms regulated by CB, this study uniquely shows its role in modulating the M2 phenotype of macrophages present within the tumor microenvironment. This study opens new avenues of future investigations aimed at investigating this drug’s efficacy in various mouse models including the effects of combination therapy, and against drug-resistant tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ishita Kathuria
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38103, United States
| | - Bhupesh Singla
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38103, United States
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Yao Z, Xue K, Chen J, Zhang Y, Zhang G, Zheng Z, Li Z, Li Z, Wang F, Sun X, Shen L, Mao C, Lin C. Biliverdin improved angiogenesis and suppressed apoptosis via PI3K/Akt-mediated Nrf2 antioxidant system to promote ischemic flap survival. Free Radic Biol Med 2024:S0891-5849(24)00689-0. [PMID: 39332540 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2024.09.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2024] [Revised: 09/21/2024] [Accepted: 09/24/2024] [Indexed: 09/29/2024]
Abstract
Plastic and reconstructive surgeons frequently utilize random skin flap transplantation to repair skin defects. However, the procedure carries a substantial risk of necrosis. Previous research has suggested that Biliverdin (Bv), the main component of Calculus Bovis, possessed potent anti-ischemic properties, making it a potential therapeutic agent for skin flap survival. Hence, in this study, the potential of Bv in promoting flap survival has been comprehensively investigated. Network pharmacology analysis revealed that the pharmacological effects of Bv on ischemic diseases may be attributed to its modulation of various signaling molecules, including the PI3K-Akt pathway. In vitro results demonstrated that Bv treatment significantly promoted angiogenesis in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC), even in the presence of H2O2. This was evident by the increased cell proliferation, enhanced migration, and improved tube formation. Bv also effectively attenuated the intracellular generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) induced by H2O2, which was achieved by suppressing mitochondrial ROS production through the PI3K/Akt-mediated activation of Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway. Consequently, Bv treatment led to a significant reduction in apoptosis and an increase in cell viability of HUVEC. Furthermore, in vivo experiment demonstrated that Bv treatment vastly elevated flap survival through enhancing angiogenesis while decreasing oxidative stress and apoptosis, which was comparable to the results of positive control of N-acetylcysteine (Nac). In conclusion, this study not only established a solid foundation for future study on therapeutic potential of Bv, but also proposed a promising treatment approach for enhancing the success rate of flap transplants and other ischemic-related tissue repair.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhe Yao
- Department of Burn, Wound Repair and Regenerative Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Kaikai Xue
- Department of Burn, Wound Repair and Regenerative Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Jinghao Chen
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Guojian Zhang
- Department of Burn, Wound Repair and Regenerative Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Zimin Zheng
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China; The Second School of Medicine, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Zihao Li
- Department of Burn, Wound Repair and Regenerative Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Zi Li
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Fulin Wang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Xiaoqi Sun
- Department of Psychiatry, Ruian Fifth People's Hospital, China
| | - Liyan Shen
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Cong Mao
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China.
| | - Cai Lin
- Department of Burn, Wound Repair and Regenerative Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Koriem KMM. Calculus bovis in hepatocellular carcinoma: Tumor molecular basis, Wnt/β-catenin pathway role, and protective mechanism. World J Gastroenterol 2024; 30:3959-3964. [DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v30.i35.3959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2024] [Revised: 08/21/2024] [Accepted: 08/26/2024] [Indexed: 09/13/2024] Open
Abstract
In this editorial, we comment on the recent article by Huang et al. The editorial focuses specifically on the molecular mechanisms of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), mechanism of Wnt/β-catenin pathway in HCC, and protective mechanism of Calculus bovis (CB) in HCC. Liver cancer is the fourth most common cause of cancer-related deaths globally. The most prevalent kind of primary liver cancer, HCC, is typically brought on by long-term viral infections (hepatitis B and C), non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, excessive alcohol consumption, and other conditions that can cause the liver to become chronically inflamed and cirrhotic. CB is a well-known traditional remedy in China and Japan and has been used extensively to treat a variety of diseases, such as high fever, convulsions, and stroke. Disturbances in lipid metabolism, cholesterol metabolism, bile acid metabolism, alcohol metabolism, and xenobiotic detoxification lead to fatty liver disease and liver cirrhosis. Succinate, which is a tricarboxylic acid cycle intermediate, is vital to energy production and mitochondrial metabolism. It is also thought to be a signaling molecule in metabolism and in the development and spread of liver malignancies. The Wnt/β-catenin pathway is made up of a group of proteins that are essential for both adult tissue homeostasis and embryonic development. Cancer is frequently caused by the dysregulation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. In HCC liver carcinogenesis, Wnt/β-catenin signaling is activated by the expression of downstream target genes. Communication between the liver and the gut exists via the portal vein, biliary tract, and systemic circulation. This "gut-liver axis" controls intestinal physiology. One of the main factors contributing to the development, progression, and treatment resistance of HCC is the abnormal activation of the Wnt/β-Catenin signaling pathway. Therefore, understanding this pathway is essential to treating HCC. Eleven ingredients of CB, particularly oleanolic acid, ergosterol, and ursolic acid, have anti-primary liver cancer properties. Additionally, CB is important in the treatment of primary liver cancer through pathways linked to immune system function and apoptosis. CB also inhibits the proliferation of cancer stem cells and tumor cells and controls the tumor microenvironment. In the future, clinicians may be able to recommend one of many potential new drugs from CB ingredients to treat HCC expression, development, and progress.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Khaled Mohamed Mohamed Koriem
- Department of Medical Physiology, Medical Research and Clinical Studies Institute, National Research Centre, Giza 12622, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Chen H, Xiong P, Guo N, Liu Z. Metabolic Engineering of Escherichia coli for Production of a Bioactive Metabolite of Bilirubin. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:9741. [PMID: 39273688 PMCID: PMC11396004 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25179741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2024] [Revised: 09/02/2024] [Accepted: 09/03/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Bilirubin (BR) is an important ingredient of a valuable Chinese medicine, Calculus bovis. Over recent decades, increasing evidence has confirmed that BR offers health benefits in cardiovascular health, stroke, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. However, BR is mainly produced by extraction from pig bile. In this study, we assembled an efficient pathway for BR production by metabolic engineering of Escherichia coli. First, heme oxygenase (HO1) and biliverdin reductase were co-expressed in E. coli. HPLC and LC-MS confirmed the accumulation of BR in the recombinant E. coli cells. To improve BR production, the catalytic abilities of HO1 from different species were investigated. In addition, the outermembrane-bound heme receptor (ChuA) and the enzymes involved in heme biosynthesis were overexpressed among which ChuA, 5-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase (HemB), protoporphyrin oxidase (HemG), and ferrochelatase (HemH) were found to enhance BR accumulation in E. coli. In addition, expression of ferredoxin (Fd) was shown to contribute to efficient conversion of heme to BR in E. coli. To increase supply of NADPH, isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH), NAD kinase (nadK), NADP-specific glutamate dehydrogenase (gdhA), and glucose-6-phosphate 1-dehydrogenase (ZWF) were overexpressed and were found to enhance BR accumulation when these proteins were expressed with a low-copy plasmid pACYCduet-1. Modular optimization of the committed genes led to a titer of 17.2 mg/L in strain M1BHG. Finally, fed-batch fermentation was performed for the strains M1BHG and M1, resulting in accumulation of 75.5 mg/L and 25.8 mg/L of BR, respectively. This is the first report on biosynthesis of BR through metabolic engineering in a heterologous host.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huaxin Chen
- School of Life Sciences and Medicine, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo 255049, China
| | - Peng Xiong
- School of Life Sciences and Medicine, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo 255049, China
| | - Ning Guo
- School of Life Sciences and Medicine, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo 255049, China
| | - Zhe Liu
- School of Life Sciences and Medicine, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo 255049, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Huang Z, Meng FY, Lu LZ, Guo QQ, Lv CJ, Tan NH, Deng Z, Chen JY, Zhang ZS, Zou B, Long HP, Zhou Q, Tian S, Mei S, Tian XF. Calculus bovis inhibits M2 tumor-associated macrophage polarization via Wnt/β-catenin pathway modulation to suppress liver cancer. World J Gastroenterol 2024; 30:3511-3533. [PMID: 39156500 PMCID: PMC11326087 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v30.i29.3511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/29/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Calculus bovis (CB), used in traditional Chinese medicine, exhibits anti-tumor effects in various cancer models. It also constitutes an integral component of a compound formulation known as Pien Tze Huang, which is indicated for the treatment of liver cancer. However, its impact on the liver cancer tumor microenvironment, particularly on tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), is not well understood.
AIM To elucidate the anti-liver cancer effect of CB by inhibiting M2-TAM polarization via Wnt/β-catenin pathway modulation.
METHODS This study identified the active components of CB using UPLC-Q-TOF-MS, evaluated its anti-neoplastic effects in a nude mouse model, and elucidated the underlying mechanisms via network pharmacology, transcriptomics, and molecular docking. In vitro assays were used to investigate the effects of CB-containing serum on HepG2 cells and M2-TAMs, and Wnt pathway modulation was validated by real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis.
RESULTS This study identified 22 active components in CB, 11 of which were detected in the bloodstream. Preclinical investigations have demonstrated the ability of CB to effectively inhibit liver tumor growth. An integrated approach employing network pharmacology, transcriptomics, and molecular docking implicated the Wnt signaling pathway as a target of the antineoplastic activity of CB by suppressing M2-TAM polarization. In vitro and in vivo experiments further confirmed that CB significantly hinders M2-TAM polarization and suppresses Wnt/β-catenin pathway activation. The inhibitory effect of CB on M2-TAMs was reversed when treated with the Wnt agonist SKL2001, confirming its pathway specificity.
CONCLUSION This study demonstrated that CB mediates inhibition of M2-TAM polarization through the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, contributing to the suppression of liver cancer growth.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Huang
- College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, Hunan Province, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Translational Research in Formulas and Zheng of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, Hunan Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Mechanism of Tumor Prevention and Treatment, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, Hunan Province, China
| | - Fan-Ying Meng
- The First Clinical College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410007, Hunan Province, China
| | - Lin-Zhu Lu
- College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, Hunan Province, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Translational Research in Formulas and Zheng of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, Hunan Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Mechanism of Tumor Prevention and Treatment, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, Hunan Province, China
| | - Qian-Qian Guo
- College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, Hunan Province, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Translational Research in Formulas and Zheng of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, Hunan Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Mechanism of Tumor Prevention and Treatment, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, Hunan Province, China
| | - Chang-Jun Lv
- College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, Hunan Province, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Translational Research in Formulas and Zheng of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, Hunan Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Mechanism of Tumor Prevention and Treatment, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, Hunan Province, China
| | - Nian-Hua Tan
- College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, Hunan Province, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Translational Research in Formulas and Zheng of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, Hunan Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Mechanism of Tumor Prevention and Treatment, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, Hunan Province, China
- Department of Hepatology, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410007, Hunan Province, China
| | - Zhe Deng
- College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, Hunan Province, China
| | - Jun-Yi Chen
- College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, Hunan Province, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Translational Research in Formulas and Zheng of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, Hunan Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Mechanism of Tumor Prevention and Treatment, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, Hunan Province, China
| | - Zi-Shu Zhang
- The First Clinical College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410007, Hunan Province, China
| | - Bo Zou
- The First Clinical College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410007, Hunan Province, China
| | - Hong-Ping Long
- The First Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410007, Hunan Province, China
| | - Qing Zhou
- The First Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410007, Hunan Province, China
| | - Sha Tian
- College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, Hunan Province, China
| | - Si Mei
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Translational Research in Formulas and Zheng of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, Hunan Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Mechanism of Tumor Prevention and Treatment, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, Hunan Province, China
- Faculty of Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, Hunan Province, China
| | - Xue-Fei Tian
- College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, Hunan Province, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Translational Research in Formulas and Zheng of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, Hunan Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Mechanism of Tumor Prevention and Treatment, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, Hunan Province, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Tian M, Han Y, Ma X, Liang W, Meng Z, Cao G, Luo Y, Zang H. Quality study of animal-derived traditional Chinese medicinal materials based on spectral technology: Calculus bovis as a case. PHYTOCHEMICAL ANALYSIS : PCA 2024; 35:1278-1285. [PMID: 38649268 DOI: 10.1002/pca.3358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Calculus bovis (C. bovis) is a typical traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) derived from animals, which has a remarkable curative effect and high price. OBJECTIVES Rapid identification of C. bovis from different types was realized based on spectral technology, and a rapid quantitative analysis method for the main quality control indicator bilirubin was established. METHODS We conducted a supervised and unsupervised pattern recognition study on 44 batches of different types of C. bovis by five spectral pretreatment methods. Three variable selection methods were used to extract the essential information, and the partial least squares regression (PLSR) quantitative model of bilirubin by near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy was constructed. RESULTS The partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) model could achieve 100% accuracy in identifying different types of C. bovis. The R2 of the NIR quantitative model was 0.979, which is close to 1, and the root mean square error of calibration (RMSEC) was 2.3515, indicating the good prediction ability of the model. CONCLUSION The study was carried out to further improve the basic data of quality control of C. bovis and help the high-quality development of TCM derived from animals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mengyin Tian
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Technology Research and Evaluation of Drug Products, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- National Glycoengineering Research Center, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Ying Han
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Technology Research and Evaluation of Drug Products, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- National Glycoengineering Research Center, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Xiaobo Ma
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Technology Research and Evaluation of Drug Products, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- National Glycoengineering Research Center, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Wenyan Liang
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Technology Research and Evaluation of Drug Products, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- National Glycoengineering Research Center, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Zhaoqing Meng
- Shandong Hongjitang Pharmaceutical Group Co. Ltd., Jinan, China
| | - Guiyun Cao
- Shandong Hongjitang Pharmaceutical Group Co. Ltd., Jinan, China
| | - Yi Luo
- Shandong Hongjitang Pharmaceutical Group Co. Ltd., Jinan, China
| | - Hengchang Zang
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Technology Research and Evaluation of Drug Products, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- National Glycoengineering Research Center, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Song R, Wang Y, Drolma G, Drolga N, Drolma D, Xia B, Zhou Y. Rapid analysis of the chemical constituents of traditional Tibetan medicine Sbyor-bzo-ghi-wang using ballpoint electrospray ionization technique. RAPID COMMUNICATIONS IN MASS SPECTROMETRY : RCM 2024; 38:e9760. [PMID: 38682312 DOI: 10.1002/rcm.9760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
RATIONALE The chemical constituents of traditional Tibetan medicines (TTM) can be identified using high-performance liquid chromatography and high-resolution mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS) technique. However, the HPLC-MS/MS technique requires the sample to be pretreated and then separated using the specific liquid chromatography method, which is time consuming. This study developed a ballpoint electrospray ionization (BPESI) technique for analyzing the chemical constituents of Sbyor-bzo-ghi-wang. This technique is a simple and inexpensive method for the rapid identification of the chemical constituents of TTMs. METHODS After the important parameters of the homemade BPESI device were optimized, the chemical constituents of Sbyor-bzo-ghi-wang were quickly identified without sample pretreatment. The raw data were converted to mzML file using MSConvert and then identified using SIRIUS 5 software. RESULTS The results showed that 30 compounds were identified from Sbyor-bzo-ghi-wang, namely eight bile acids, six flavonoids, four alkaloids, three amino acids, and nine others. Compared to the ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-Q/Orbitrap and high-resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q/Orbitrap HRMS) technique, the BPESI technique identified almost similar types of compounds and also a comparable number of compounds. CONCLUSIONS Compared with the traditional HPLC-MS/MS methods, the BPESI technique does not require complex sample pretreatment and subsequent chromatographic separation steps; also it consumes a small quantity of samples. Therefore, BPESI can be used for the qualitative analysis of the chemical constituents of Sbyor-bzo-ghi-wang.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rui Song
- Chengdu Institute of Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chengdu, P. R. China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Yu Wang
- Chengdu Institute of Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chengdu, P. R. China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Gazang Drolma
- Xizang Institute for Food and Drug Control/NMPA Key Laboratory for Quality Control of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tibetan Medicine, Lhasa, China
| | - Nima Drolga
- Xizang Institute for Food and Drug Control/NMPA Key Laboratory for Quality Control of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tibetan Medicine, Lhasa, China
| | - Dawa Drolma
- Xizang Institute for Food and Drug Control/NMPA Key Laboratory for Quality Control of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tibetan Medicine, Lhasa, China
| | - Bing Xia
- Chengdu Institute of Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chengdu, P. R. China
| | - Yan Zhou
- Chengdu Institute of Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chengdu, P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Zhang Z, Sun Y, Zeng Y, Cui N, Li B, Zhang W, Bai H, Xing N, Kuang H, Wang Q. Elucidating the hepatoprotective mechanisms of cholic acid against CCl 4-Induced acute liver injury: A transcriptomic and metabolomic study. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 328:118052. [PMID: 38518967 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.118052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Cholic acid (CA) is one of the main active ingredients in Calculus Bovis, a traditional Chinese medicine, which helps to regulate the heart and liver meridians, clearing the heart, opening the mouth, cooling the liver and calming the wind. However, the molecular mechanism of its liver protective effect is still unclear. AIM OF THE STUDY Growing attention has been directed towards traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), particularly Calculus Bovis, as a potential solution for liver protection. Despite this interest, a comprehensive understanding of its hepatoprotective mechanisms remains lacking. This research seeks to explore the potential protective properties of cholic acid (CA) against CCl4-induced acute liver injury (ALI) in mice, while also examining the mechanisms involved. MATERIALS AND METHODS In the experiment, a mouse model was employed to ALI using CCl4, and the potential therapeutic effects of orally administered CA at varying doses (15, 30, and 60 mg/kg) were assessed. The study employed a multi-faceted approach, integrating liver transcriptomics with serum metabolomics, and conducting thorough analyses of serum biochemical markers and liver histopathological sections. RESULTS Oral CA administration markedly reduced the organ indices of the liver, spleen, and thymus in comparison with the model group. It also elevated the expression of superoxide dismutase (SOD) in serum while diminishing the concentrations of ALT, AST, MDA, IL-6, and TNF-α. Moreover, CA ameliorated the pathological damage induced by CCl4. Integrated metabolomic and transcriptomic analyses indicated that the hepatoprotective action of CA on ALI is mediated through the modulation of lipid metabolic pathways-specifically, metabolisms of glycerophospholipid, arachidonic acid, as well as linoleic acid-and by altering the expression of genes such as Ptgr1, PLpp1, Tbxas1, and Cyp2c37. CONCLUSIONS The current investigation offers insights into the hepatoprotective mechanisms by which CA mitigates ALI caused by CCl4 exposure, thus supporting the further evaluation and development of CA-based therapeutics for ALI.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhihong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Basic and Application Research of Beiyao (Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine), Ministry of Education, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, 150040, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Yanping Sun
- Key Laboratory of Basic and Application Research of Beiyao (Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine), Ministry of Education, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, 150040, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Yuanning Zeng
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, 510006, Guangdong, China
| | - Na Cui
- Key Laboratory of Basic and Application Research of Beiyao (Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine), Ministry of Education, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, 150040, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Biao Li
- Key Laboratory of Basic and Application Research of Beiyao (Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine), Ministry of Education, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, 150040, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Wensen Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Basic and Application Research of Beiyao (Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine), Ministry of Education, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, 150040, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Haodong Bai
- Key Laboratory of Basic and Application Research of Beiyao (Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine), Ministry of Education, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, 150040, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Na Xing
- Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, SIMM CAS, Zhongshan, Guangdong, China
| | - Haixue Kuang
- Key Laboratory of Basic and Application Research of Beiyao (Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine), Ministry of Education, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, 150040, Heilongjiang, China.
| | - Qiuhong Wang
- Key Laboratory of Basic and Application Research of Beiyao (Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine), Ministry of Education, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, 150040, Heilongjiang, China.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Zhao Y, Xi C, Liu D, Ren X, Fan J, Tangthianchaichana J, Lu Y, Wu H. Chemical components with antibacterial properties found in sanchen powder from traditional Tibetan medicine. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 326:117981. [PMID: 38417599 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.117981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/01/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Sanchen powder is a traditional Tibetan medicine comprising Bambusae Concretio Silicea, Carthami Flos, and Bovis Calculus Artifactus. Bambusae Concretio Silicea is the dried mass of secreted fluid in the stalks of Gramineae plants such as Bambusa textilis McClure or Schizostachyum chinense Rendle. Carthami Flos is the dried flower of Carthamus tinctorius L. in the Compositae plant. Bovis Calculus Artifactus is made from ox bile powder, cholic acid, hyodeoxycholic acid, taurine, bilirubin, cholesterol, and trace elements. Research has evidenced the antibacterial efficacy of Sanchen powder, albeit its active constituents for this effect are yet to be established. AIM OF THE STUDY To investigate effective compounds, potential targets, and molecular mechanism of Sanchen powder for its antibacterial properties by using network pharmacology combined with in vitro validation, with the aims of observing the action of effective compounds in Sanchen powder and exploring new therapeutic strategies for antibacterial. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this study, UPLC-Q-TOF-MS was utilized to identify the chemical composition in Sanchen powder and its blood-borne chemical ingredients post-oral intake. A network pharmacology analysis was used to establish the chemical compound in the blood following oral administration-target-disease network. The study aimed to identify antibacterial active ingredients, which were then subjected to molecular docking and pharmacodynamic experiments to verify their efficacy. RESULTS The findings demonstrate that following oral administration, the blood contains seven key components of Sanchen powder, including bilirubin, glycochenodeoxycholic acid, glycocholic acid, taurocholic acid, phenylalanine, safflomin A, and tryptophan. Additionally, the network pharmacology and molecular docking study results indicate the potential antibacterial effects of bilirubin, glycocholic acid, and glycochenodeoxycholic acid. In vitro antibacterial experiments revealed that bilirubin, glycocholic acid, and glycochenodeoxycholic acid could restrict the growth of the Staphylococcus aureus cell membrane at a certain concentration. Moreover, they exhibited antibacterial effects on Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus epidermidis, and Escherichia coli. CONCLUSIONS Bilirubin, glycocholic acid, and glycochenodeoxycholic acid could be effective therapeutic ingredients for the antibacterial effects of Sanchen powder. These results offer a foundation for further clinical application and research on the antibacterial effect of Sanchen powder, a Traditional Tibetan Medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yueying Zhao
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.
| | - Cheng Xi
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.
| | - Donghan Liu
- Beijing Union Pharmaceutical Factory, Beijing, China.
| | - Xiaoqiao Ren
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China; Institute of Minority Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.
| | - Jiayi Fan
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.
| | | | - Yang Lu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.
| | - Huichao Wu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China; Institute of Minority Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Liu B, Wang J, Li C. Application of PLS-NN model based on mid-infrared spectroscopy in the origin identification of Cornus officinalis. RSC Adv 2024; 14:15209-15219. [PMID: 38737973 PMCID: PMC11082643 DOI: 10.1039/d4ra00953c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Mid-infrared spectroscopy has been increasingly used as a nondestructive analytical technique in Chinese herbal medicine identification in recent years. In this study, a new chemometric model named as PLS-NN model was proposed based on the mid-infrared spectral data of Cornus officinalis samples from 11 origins. It was realized by combining the partial least squares and neural networks for the identification of the origin of Chinese herbal medicines. First, we extracted features from the spectral data in 3448 bands using the partial least squares method, and extracted 122 components that contained more than 95% of the information. Then, we trained the PLS-NN model by neural network using the extracted components as inputs and the corresponding origin classes as outputs. Finally, based on an external test set, we evaluated the generalization ability of the PLS-NN model using metrics such as accuracy, F1-Score and Kappa coefficient. The results show that the PLS-NN model performs well in all three metrics when compared to models such as Decision trees, Support vector machine, Partial least squares Discriminant analysis, and Naive bayes. The model not only realizes the dimensionality reduction of full-spectrum data and improves the training efficiency of the model, but also has higher accuracy compared with the full-spectrum data model. The PLS-NN model was applied to identify the origin of Cornus officinalis with an accuracy of 91.9%.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bing Liu
- Public Foundational Courses Department, Nanjing Vocational University of Industry Technology Nanjing 210023 China
| | - Junqi Wang
- School of Electrical Engineering, Nanjing Vocational University of Industry Technology Nanjing 210023 China
| | - Chaoning Li
- Research and Development Department, Jiangsu Changxingyang Intelligent Home Company Limited Suzhou 215009 China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Du Q, Gao C, Tsoi B, Wu M, Shen J. Niuhuang Qingxin Wan ameliorates depressive-like behaviors and improves hippocampal neurogenesis through modulating TrkB/ERK/CREB signaling pathway in chronic restraint stress or corticosterone challenge mice. Front Pharmacol 2024; 14:1274343. [PMID: 38273824 PMCID: PMC10808638 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1274343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Chronic stress-associated hormonal imbalance impairs hippocampal neurogenesis, contributing to depressive and anxiety behaviors. Targeting neurogenesis is thus a promising antidepressant therapeutic strategy. Niuhuang Qingxin Wan (NHQXW) is an herbal formula for mental disorders in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practice, but its anti-depressant efficacies and mechanisms remain unverified. Methods: In the present study, we tested the hypothesis that NHQXW could ameliorate depressive-like behaviors and improve hippocampal neurogenesis by modulating the TrkB/ERK/CREB signaling pathway by utilizing two depression mouse models including a chronic restraint stress (CRS) mouse model and a chronic corticosterone (CORT) stress (CCS) induced mouse model. The depression-like mouse models were orally treated with NHQXW whereas fluoxetine was used as the positive control group. We evaluated the effects of NHQXW on depressive- and anxiety-like behaviors and determined the effects of NHQXW on inducing hippocampal neurogenesis. Results: NHQXW treatment significantly ameliorated depressive-like behaviors in those chronic stress mouse models. NHQXW significantly improved hippocampal neurogenesis in the CRS mice and CCS mice. The potential neurogenic mechanism of NHQXW was identified by regulating the expression levels of BDNF, TrkB, p-ERK (T202/T204), p-MEK1/2 (S217/221), and p-CREB (S133) in the hippocampus area of the CCS mice. NHQXW revealed its antidepressant and neurogenic effects that were similar to fluoxetine. Moreover, NHQXW treatment revealed long-term effects on preventing withdrawal-associated rebound symptoms in the CCS mice. Furthermore, in a bioactivity-guided quality control study, liquiritin was identified as one of the bioactive compounds of NHQXW with the bioactivities of neurogenesis-promoting effects. Discussion: Taken together, NHQXW could be a promising TCM formula to attenuate depressive- and anxiety-like behaviors against chronic stress and depression. The underlying anti-depressant mechanisms could be correlated with its neurogenic activities by stimulating the TrkB/ERK/CREB signaling pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qiaohui Du
- School of Chinese Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China
| | - Chong Gao
- School of Chinese Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China
- The Institute of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Bun Tsoi
- School of Chinese Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Meiling Wu
- School of Chinese Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jiangang Shen
- School of Chinese Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Jayanti S, Vitek L, Verde CD, Llido JP, Sukowati C, Tiribelli C, Gazzin S. Role of Natural Compounds Modulating Heme Catabolic Pathway in Gut, Liver, Cardiovascular, and Brain Diseases. Biomolecules 2024; 14:63. [PMID: 38254662 PMCID: PMC10813662 DOI: 10.3390/biom14010063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The crucial physiological process of heme breakdown yields biliverdin (BV) and bilirubin (BR) as byproducts. BV, BR, and the enzymes involved in their production (the "yellow players-YP") are increasingly documented as endogenous modulators of human health. Mildly elevated serum bilirubin concentration has been correlated with a reduced risk of multiple chronic pro-oxidant and pro-inflammatory diseases, especially in the elderly. BR and BV per se have been demonstrated to protect against neurodegenerative diseases, in which heme oxygenase (HMOX), the main enzyme in the production of pigments, is almost always altered. HMOX upregulation has been interpreted as a tentative defense against the ongoing pathologic mechanisms. With the demonstration that multiple cells possess YP, their propensity to be modulated, and their broad spectrum of activity on multiple signaling pathways, the YP have assumed the role of an adjustable system that can promote health in adults. Based on that, there is an ongoing effort to induce their activity as a therapeutic option, and natural compounds are an attractive alternative to the goal, possibly requiring only minimal changes in the life style. We review the most recent evidence of the potential of natural compounds in targeting the YP in the context of the most common pathologic condition of adult and elderly life.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sri Jayanti
- Liver brain Unit “Rita Moretti”, Fondazione Italiana Fegato-Onlus, Bldg. Q, AREA Science Park, ss14, Km 163,5, Basovizza, 34149 Trieste, Italy or (S.J.); (C.D.V.); (J.P.L.); or (C.S.); (C.T.)
- Eijkman Research Centre for Molecular Biology, Research Organization for Health, National Research and Innovation Agency, Cibinong 16915, Indonesia
| | - Libor Vitek
- Institute of Medical Biochemistry and Laboratory Diagnostics, and 4th Department of Internal Medicine, General University Hospital and 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, 12000 Prague, Czech Republic;
| | - Camilla Dalla Verde
- Liver brain Unit “Rita Moretti”, Fondazione Italiana Fegato-Onlus, Bldg. Q, AREA Science Park, ss14, Km 163,5, Basovizza, 34149 Trieste, Italy or (S.J.); (C.D.V.); (J.P.L.); or (C.S.); (C.T.)
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, 34139 Trieste, Italy
| | - John Paul Llido
- Liver brain Unit “Rita Moretti”, Fondazione Italiana Fegato-Onlus, Bldg. Q, AREA Science Park, ss14, Km 163,5, Basovizza, 34149 Trieste, Italy or (S.J.); (C.D.V.); (J.P.L.); or (C.S.); (C.T.)
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, 34139 Trieste, Italy
- Department of Science and Technology, Philippine Council for Health Research and Development, Bicutan, Taguig City 1631, Philippines
| | - Caecilia Sukowati
- Liver brain Unit “Rita Moretti”, Fondazione Italiana Fegato-Onlus, Bldg. Q, AREA Science Park, ss14, Km 163,5, Basovizza, 34149 Trieste, Italy or (S.J.); (C.D.V.); (J.P.L.); or (C.S.); (C.T.)
- Eijkman Research Centre for Molecular Biology, Research Organization for Health, National Research and Innovation Agency, Cibinong 16915, Indonesia
| | - Claudio Tiribelli
- Liver brain Unit “Rita Moretti”, Fondazione Italiana Fegato-Onlus, Bldg. Q, AREA Science Park, ss14, Km 163,5, Basovizza, 34149 Trieste, Italy or (S.J.); (C.D.V.); (J.P.L.); or (C.S.); (C.T.)
| | - Silvia Gazzin
- Liver brain Unit “Rita Moretti”, Fondazione Italiana Fegato-Onlus, Bldg. Q, AREA Science Park, ss14, Km 163,5, Basovizza, 34149 Trieste, Italy or (S.J.); (C.D.V.); (J.P.L.); or (C.S.); (C.T.)
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Fan G, Liu M, Liu J, Huang Y, Mu W. Traditional Chinese medicines treat ischemic stroke and their main bioactive constituents and mechanisms. Phytother Res 2024; 38:411-453. [PMID: 38051175 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.8033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
Ischemic stroke (IS) remains one of the leading causes of death and disability in humans. Unfortunately, none of the treatments effectively provide functional benefits to patients with IS, although many do so by targeting different aspects of the ischemic cascade response. The advantages of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in preventing and treating IS are obvious in terms of early treatment and global coordination. The efficacy of TCM and its bioactive constituents has been scientifically proven over the past decades. Based on clinical trials, this article provides a review of commonly used TCM patent medicines and herbal decoctions indicated for IS. In addition, this paper also reviews the mechanisms of bioactive constituents in TCM for the treatment of IS in recent years, both domestically and internationally. A comprehensive review of preclinical and clinical studies will hopefully provide new ideas to address the threat of IS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Genhao Fan
- Tianjin University of Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- Clinical Pharmacology Department, Second Affiliated Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Menglin Liu
- Tianjin University of Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Jia Liu
- Clinical Pharmacology Department, Second Affiliated Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Yuhong Huang
- Clinical Pharmacology Department, Second Affiliated Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Wei Mu
- Clinical Pharmacology Department, Second Affiliated Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Hao DL, Xie R, Zhong YL, Li JM, Zhao QH, Huo HR, Xiong XJ, Sui F, Wang PQ. Jasminoidin and ursodeoxycholic acid exert synergistic effect against cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury via Dectin-1-induced NF-κB activation pathway. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 115:154817. [PMID: 37121061 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2023.154817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Jasminoidin (JA) and ursodeoxycholic acid (UA) were shown to act synergistically against ischemic stroke (IS) in our previous studies. PURPOSE To investigate the holistic synergistic mechanism of JA and UA on cerebral ischemia. METHODS Middle cerebral artery obstruction reperfusion (MCAO/R) mice were used to evaluate the efficacy of JA, UA, and JA combined with UA (JU) using neurological function testing and infarct volume examination. High-throughput RNA-seq combined with computational prediction and function-integrated analysis was conducted to gain insight into the comprehensive mechanism of synergy. The core mechanism was validated using western blotting. RESULTS JA and UA synergistically reduced cerebral infarct volume and alleviated neurological deficits and pathological changes in MCAO/R mice. A total of 1437, 396, 1080, and 987 differentially expressed genes were identified in the vehicle, JA, UA, and JU groups, respectively. A strong synergistic effect between JA and UA was predicted using chemical similarity analysis, target profile comparison, and semantic similarity analysis. As the 'long-tail' drugs, the top 20 gene ontology (GO) biological processes of JA, UA, and JU groups primarily reflected inflammatory response and regulation of cytokine production, with specific GO terms of JU revealing enhanced regulation on immune response and tumor necrosis factor superfamily cytokine production. Comparably, the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) signaling of common targets of JA, UA, and JU focused on extracellular matrix organization and signaling by interleukins, immune system, phagosomes, and lysosomes, which interlock and interweave to produce the synergistic effects of JU. The characteristic signaling pathway identified for JU highlighted the crosstalk between autophagy activation and inflammatory pathways, especially the Dectin-1-induced NF-κB activation pathway, which was validated by in vivo experiments. CONCLUSIONS JA and UA can synergistically protect cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury by attenuating Dectin-1-induced NF-κB activation. The strategy integrating high throughput data with computational models enables ever-finer mapping of 'long-tail' drugs to dynamic variations in condition-specific omics to clarify synergistic mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dan-Li Hao
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Ran Xie
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Yi-Lin Zhong
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Jia-Meng Li
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Qing-He Zhao
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Hai-Ru Huo
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Xing-Jiang Xiong
- Guang'anmen Hospital, Chinese Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.
| | - Feng Sui
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China.
| | - Peng-Qian Wang
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Tang Y, Han Z, Zhang H, Che L, Liao G, Peng J, Lin Y, Wang Y. Characterization of Calculus bovis by principal component analysis assisted qHNMR profiling to distinguish nefarious frauds. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2023; 228:115320. [PMID: 36871364 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2023.115320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023]
Abstract
A new approach is developed for the reliable classification of Calculus bovis along with the identification of willfully contaminated C. bovis species and the quantification of unclaimed adulterants. Guided by a principal component analysis, NMR data mining achieved a near-holistic chemical characterization of three types of authenticated C. bovis, including natural C. bovis (NCB), in vitro cultured C. bovis (Ivt-CCB), and artificial C. bovis (ACB). In addition, species-specific markers used for quality evaluation and species classification were confirmed. That is, the content of taurine in NCB is near negligible, while choline and hyodeoxycholic acid are characteristic for identifying Ivt-CCB and ACB, respectively. Besides, the peak shapes and chemical shifts of H2-25 of glycocholic acid could assist in the recognition of the origins of C. bovis. Based on these discoveries, a set of commercial NCB samples, macroscopically identified as problematic species, was examined with deliberately added sugars and outliers discovered. Absolute quantification of the identified sugars was realized by qHNMR using a single, nonidentical internal calibrant (IC). This study represents the first systematic study of C. bovis metabolomics via an NMR-driven methodology, which advances the toolbox for quality control of TCM and provides a more definitive reference point for future chemical and biological studies of C. bovis as a valuable materia medica.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu Tang
- Pharmaceutical Informatics Institute, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China; Innovation Institute for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310018, China.
| | - Zhu Han
- Pharmaceutical Informatics Institute, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
| | - Han Zhang
- Pharmaceutical Informatics Institute, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
| | - Li Che
- Xiamen Traditional Chinese Medicine Co., Ltd., Xiamen 361116, China.
| | - Genjie Liao
- Xiamen Traditional Chinese Medicine Co., Ltd., Xiamen 361116, China.
| | - Jun Peng
- College of Pharmacy, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou 350122, China.
| | - Yu Lin
- College of Pharmacy, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou 350122, China.
| | - Yi Wang
- Pharmaceutical Informatics Institute, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China; Innovation Institute for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310018, China.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Ding M, Jiang Y, Gao W, Li M, Chen L, Yang H, Li P. Characterization and quantification of chemical constituents in Angong Niuhuang Pill using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2023; 228:115309. [PMID: 36841067 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2023.115309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
Material basis researches and quality evaluation of traditional Chinese medicine preparations (TCMPs) face great challenges due to the complex composition and abundant unexpected interference. Angong Niuhuang Pill (ANP), one of the most famous TCMPs in China, containing 11 crude drugs has been commonly used for the treatment of febrile diseases. However, previous literatures of comprehensive chemical constituents in ANP were still limited. Herein, Ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-ion mobility-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-IM-QTOF MS) method was established to effectively recognize the chemicals in Angong Niuhuang Pill (ANP). A total of 205 compounds, containing 72 confirmed with reference standards, were characterized from ANP with the application of a systematic strategy integrated polygonal mass defect filtering (MDF) and diagnostic fragment ion filtering (DFIF)/neutral loss filtering (NLF). Additionally, 68 major constituents in 8 batches of ANP samples were simultaneously determined by ultra-performance liquid chromatography-triple quadrupole tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-QQQ MS/MS) within 40 min. The quantitative method was validated regarding linearity, precision, repeatability, stability, and accuracy. These findings proved the established liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) method was efficient and dependable for qualitative and quantitative chemical profiling of ANP. Besides, this research could provide the material basis for further pharmacological researches and quality control of ANP.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Meng Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, No. 24 Tongjia Lane, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yue Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, No. 24 Tongjia Lane, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Wen Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, No. 24 Tongjia Lane, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Mengning Li
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, No. 24 Tongjia Lane, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Lu Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, No. 24 Tongjia Lane, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Hua Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, No. 24 Tongjia Lane, Nanjing 210009, China.
| | - Ping Li
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, No. 24 Tongjia Lane, Nanjing 210009, China.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Taurocholic Acid and Glycocholic Acid Inhibit Inflammation and Activate Farnesoid X Receptor Expression in LPS-Stimulated Zebrafish and Macrophages. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28052005. [PMID: 36903252 PMCID: PMC10003765 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28052005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023] Open
Abstract
A hyperactive immune response can be observed in patients with bacterial or viral infection, which may lead to the overproduction of proinflammatory cytokines, or "cytokine storm", and a poor clinical outcome. Extensive research efforts have been devoted to the discovery of effective immune modulators, yet the therapeutic options are still very limited. Here, we focused on the clinically indicated anti-inflammatory natural product Calculus bovis and its related patent drug Babaodan to investigate the major active molecules in the medicinal mixture. Combined with high-resolution mass spectrometry, transgenic zebrafish-based phenotypic screening, and mouse macrophage models, taurochiolic acid (TCA) and glycoholic acid (GCA) were identified as two naturally derived anti-inflammatory agents with high efficacy and safety. Both bile acids significantly inhibited the lipopolysaccharide-induced macrophage recruitment and the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines/chemokines in in vivo and in vitro models. Further studies identified strongly increased expression of the farnesoid X receptor at both the mRNA and protein levels upon the administration of TCA or GCA, which may be essential for mediating the anti-inflammatory effects of the two bile acids. In conclusion, we identified TCA and GCA as two major anti-inflammatory compounds in Calculus bovis and Babaodan, which could be important quality markers for the future development of Calculus bovis, as well as promising lead compounds in the treatment of overactive immune responses.
Collapse
|
19
|
Xiang D, Liu Y, Zu Y, Yang J, He W, Zhang C, Liu D. Calculus Bovis Sativus alleviates estrogen cholestasis-induced gut and liver injury in rats by regulating inflammation, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and bile acid profiles. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 302:115854. [PMID: 36273746 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2022.115854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2022] [Revised: 10/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Natural Calculus Bovis (NCB) is a traditional Chinese medicine used for anti-inflammation, treating fever, pain, sedation, and recovering hepatobiliary function. Calculus Bovis Sativus (CBS), produced from in vitro artificial cultivation by bioengineering techniques, acts as an ideal substitute for NCB when treating various diseases. AIM OF THE STUDY Gut-liver injury is an important pathological feature of several cholestatic liver diseases, including estrogen-induced cholestasis (EIC). The strong link between cholestatic liver injury and intestinal damage emphasizes the need of considering gut-liver integrity during treatment. The purpose of this study is to look into the pharmacological activities of CBS on EIC-induced gut and liver damage. MATERIALS AND METHODS EIC-induced cholestatic rats were given oral gavage daily for five days with or without CBS (150 mg/kg). The liver/body weight, serum biochemistry, and tissue histopathology were then evaluated. Quantitative real-time PCR, Western blot analyses, and immunofluorescence were used to determine the gene expression associated with pathological alterations of the liver and intestine in EIC-induced cholestatic rats. Bile acid profiles within enterohepatic circulation were detected by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. RESULTS CBS significantly reduced relative liver weight, restored serum biochemistry levels, and improved the hepatic and intestinal pathological damage in EIC model rats. CBS reduced EIC-induced hepatic inflammation by inactivation of the NF-κB signaling and inhibition of TNFα, IL-1β, and IL-6 expression. CBS alleviated EIC-induced hepatic and intestinal oxidative stress by regulating Nrf2-GCLM/GCLC and Nrf2-HO-1 pathways, respectively. CBS treatment upregulated Bcl-2 and downregulated Bax and cleaved caspase3 to improve EIC-induced hepatic and intestinal cell apoptosis. Additionally, CBS reversed the disorders of bile acid profiles in the enterohepatic circulation by reducing bile acid accumulation in the liver and plasma and increasing bile excretion and intestinal reabsorption of bile acids. CONCLUSION CBS alleviates EIC-induced hepatic and intestinal injury through regulating inflammation, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and bile acid profiles. These results suggest that CBS or drugs targeting the gut-liver axis may be effective therapeutic agents for cholestasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dong Xiang
- Department of Pharmacy, Tongji Hospital Affiliated with Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Yanan Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Tongji Hospital Affiliated with Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China; Department of Pharmacy, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Yue Zu
- Department of Pharmacy, Tongji Hospital Affiliated with Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Jinyu Yang
- Department of Pharmacy, Tongji Hospital Affiliated with Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Wenxi He
- Department of Pharmacy, Tongji Hospital Affiliated with Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Chengliang Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Tongji Hospital Affiliated with Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
| | - Dong Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Tongji Hospital Affiliated with Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Widely quasi-quantitative analysis of both metabolites and tryptic peptides in animal-originated medicinal materials: Bufonis Venenum as a case. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2022; 223:115143. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2022.115143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
|
21
|
Zheng Y, Cheng J, Gu C, Xiao M, Shao Z, Zhao L, Tong X. Case report: Treatment with Pien-Tze-Huang for prolonged positive SARS-CoV-2 test results in COVID-19 patients: A report of five cases. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:860681. [PMID: 36017009 PMCID: PMC9396371 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.860681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has rapidly spread around the world since December 2019, becoming a global pandemic. Atypical cases of COVID-19, manifesting as prolonged positive SARS-CoV-2 test results during the convalescence period, have been encountered. These cases increase the difficulty of COVID-19 prevention and treatment. Here, we report five cases of COVID-19 patients who demonstrated prolonged positive SARS-CoV-2 tests after regular traditional Chinese medicine and western medicine treatments. After administration of Pien-Tze-Huang and cessation of previous treatments, SARS-CoV-2 tests results of the patients turned and remained negative. We believe the finding will contribute to a better understanding of atypical COVID-19 cases and hope to offer a potential therapy. Since this is a preliminary case series, larger-scale clinical trials are warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yujiao Zheng
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Jinbo Cheng
- Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Chengjuan Gu
- Shenzhen Hospital (Futian), Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Mingzhong Xiao
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Theoretical and Applied Research of Liver and Kidney in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hepatic Disease Institute, Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
- Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Zuoyu Shao
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Theoretical and Applied Research of Liver and Kidney in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hepatic Disease Institute, Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
- Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Linhua Zhao
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Linhua Zhao
| | - Xiaolin Tong
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Xiaolin Tong
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Li YF, Sheng HD, Qian J, Wang Y. The Chinese medicine babaodan suppresses LPS-induced sepsis by inhibiting NLRP3-mediated inflammasome activation. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 292:115205. [PMID: 35307576 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2022.115205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Revised: 03/05/2022] [Accepted: 03/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE BBD is a well-known traditional Chinese medicine widely used in clinic to treat viral hepatitis, cholecystitis, angiocholitis and urinary tract infection. According to traditional medicinal theory, BBD exerts the effects of "clearing and humid heat, activating blood and removing toxicity, curing jaundice and relieving pain", the signs of which are recognized as common symptoms of inflammation during infectious diseases in modern medicine. AIM OF THE STUDY To determine the therapeutic effect of BBD on bacterial endotoxin lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced sepsis and to investigate the relevant pharmacological and molecular mechanisms of action whereby BBD mitigates inflammation. MATERIALS AND METHODS In vivo, a mouse sepsis model was induced by intraperitoneally injection of LPS; the BBD were formulated as drug suspension for intragastric administration. The survival rate, secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines of IL-1β and TNF-α, and multiple organ injury of lung, liver and spleen were examined. In vitro, peritoneal macrophages (PMs) were stimulated with LPS plus ATP for NLRP3 inflammasome activation; polar gradient extractions of BBD from ultrapure water (sample 1) followed by 70% ethanol (sample 2) were added as interventions. In addition to detect the secretion of IL-1β and TNF-α, the activation of NF-κB, ASC-speck formation and ASC oligomerization were examined by western blotting and immunofluorescent stainning. Eventually, the extractions of BBD were applied for UPLC-QTOF-MS analyses; refer to the identified chemicals, the bioactive compounds in BBD with anti-NLRP3 inflammasome activities were discussed. RESULTS BBD improved the survival of sepsis mice accomplished with diminished inflammatory cytokines production and multiple organ injury. Mechanistically, BBD inhibited both the NF-κB pathway and the assembly of NLRP3 complex in PMs. There were 29 chemical compounds identified from sample 1 and 20 from sample 2. Both samples contained bile acids and saponins and sample 2 contained 2 extra chemicals in the category of bile acids. CONCLUSIONS BBD presents therapeutic role of endotoxin induced sepsis by inhibiting NLRP3-medaited inflammasome activation, which supports its traditional use for the treatment of infectious diseases. The bile acids and saponins are most likely related to the anti-NLRP3 inflammasome activation effect of BBD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Fei Li
- Pharmaceutical Informatics Institute, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Hong-da Sheng
- Pharmaceutical Informatics Institute, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Jing Qian
- Pharmaceutical Informatics Institute, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China; Jinhua Institute of Zhejiang University, Jinhua, 321016, China.
| | - Yi Wang
- Pharmaceutical Informatics Institute, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China; Jinhua Institute of Zhejiang University, Jinhua, 321016, China; Innovation Institute for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China; State Key Laboratory of Component-Based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 300000, China.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Xu X, Zhang W, Wu X, Sun Y, Yang H, Pu Y, Zhou S, Fang B. The effectiveness and safety of Chaiqin Qingning Capsule in upper respiratory tract infections with fever: A prospective, double-blinded, randomized, multicenter controlled trial. Complement Ther Med 2022; 68:102840. [PMID: 35523395 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2022.102840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Presently, over-the-counter drugs that can treat upper respiratory tract infections (URTI) are rarely effective and safe. Chaiqin Qingning Capsule (CQQNC), a Chinese patent medicine, which has been verified by long-term clinical practice is recommended by Chinese experts for the treatment of URTI with fever. This study conducted a prospective, double-blinded, randomized, multicenter controlled trial to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of CQQNC in the treatment of URTI. METHODS The study was conducted at 4 clinical centers in China. Eligible subjects were recruited and randomized 1:1 to the CQQNC group and Qingkailing Capsule (QKLC) group. Both groups were administered orally three times a day for three consecutive days. Primary outcomes were the antipyretic onset time and the temperature recovery time. Secondary outcomes included the symptom disappearance rate, symptom score, and drug safety assessment. RESULTS A total of 269 subjects were analyzed (134 subjects in the CQQNC group, 135 subjects in the QKLC group). The antipyretic onset time and the temperature recovery time were significantly shortened in the CQQNC group (median: 5 h vs. 10 h, p < 0.0001, median: 19 h vs. 27 h, p < 0.0001). CQQNC was more effective than the QKLC in improving the symptoms of pharyngodynia and rhinobyon (85.07% vs. 71.11%, p = 0.008; 76.99% vs. 64.41%, p = 0.043), and in improving the overall symptom scores (-15.10 ± 3.23 vs. -13.35 ± 3.58, p < 0.0001). During the trial, no serious adverse events were reported in the two groups. CONCLUSION CQQNC is effective and safe in the treatment of URTI with fever, and worthy of clinical application. (http://www.chictr.org.cn, ChiCTR-IPR-16009049).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiangru Xu
- Department of Emergency, LongHua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Wen Zhang
- Department of Emergency, LongHua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Xinxin Wu
- Department of Emergency, LongHua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yuting Sun
- Department of Emergency, LongHua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Hongqiang Yang
- Department of Emergency, LongHua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yuting Pu
- Department of Emergency, LongHua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Shuang Zhou
- Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Bangjiang Fang
- Department of Emergency, LongHua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China; Institute of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China..
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Niuhuang (Bovis Calculus)-Shexiang (Moschus) combination induces apoptosis and inhibits proliferation in hepatocellular carcinoma via PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway. DIGITAL CHINESE MEDICINE 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.dcmed.2022.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
|
25
|
Du X, Li C, Zhang S, Sun C, Zhang X, Chen C, Wang X, Cheng F, Wang Q. Exploring the pharmacological mechanism of calculus bovis in cerebral ischaemic stroke using a network pharmacology approach. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 284:114507. [PMID: 34384847 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2021.114507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Revised: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Calculus bovis is commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of cerebrovascular diseases given its roles in clearing away heat, detoxification and pain relief. Calculus bovis is used the treatment of cerebral ischaemia, liver and gallbladder diseases and various inflammatory conditions. However, the mechanism of action of calculus bovis in the treatment of ischaemic stroke is not well understood. AIM OF THE STUDY In this study, the anti-inflammatory, antioxidative and antiapoptotic effects of calculus bovis on neurovascular units were studied, and the mechanism of action of calculus bovis on neurovascular units was also discussed. MATERIALS AND METHODS Neurons, astrocytes, and endothelial cells were used to construct models of brain neurovascular units in vitro. The oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation and glucose (OGD/R) model was used to assess the effects of in vitro cultured calculus bovis on inflammatory factors, oxidative stress, and apoptosis. ZO-1, Occludin, Claudin-5, HIF-1, VEGF, PI3K, Akt, Bax, Bcl-2, and Caspase-3 expression was detected. RESULTS In vitro cultured calculus bovis protects the blood-brain barrier; repairs tight junction proteins; increases ZO-1, Occludin and Claudin-5 protein expression; maintains TEER(transepithelial electrical resistance) values; repairs damaged endothelial cells; increases γ-GT activity; reduces LDH and inflammatory injury; and reduces TNF-α, LI-6, and IL-1β levels. In vitro cultured calculus bovis reduces oxidative stress damage and NO and improves SOD activity. In vitro cultured calculus bovis protects neurons through antiapoptotic activities, including reductions in the apoptotic proteins Bax and Caspase-3, increases in Bcl-2 protein expression, and protection of brain neurovascular units through the HIF/VEGF and PI3K/Akt signalling pathways. CONCLUSION In summary, the protective effect of calculus bovis on neurovascular units is achieved through antioxidative, anti-inflammatory and antiapoptotic effects. The mechanism of action of in vitro cultured calculus bovis in ischaemic stroke involves multiple targets and signalling pathways. The PI3K/Akt, HIF-1α and VEGF pathways effectively protect neurovascular units in the brain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xin Du
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, China
| | - Changxiang Li
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, China
| | - Shuang Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, China
| | - Chunyan Sun
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, China
| | - Xiaole Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, China
| | - Congai Chen
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, China
| | - Xueqian Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, China
| | - Fafeng Cheng
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, China
| | - Qingguo Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, China.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Production of bilirubin by biotransformation of biliverdin using recombinant Escherichia coli cells. Bioprocess Biosyst Eng 2022; 45:563-571. [DOI: 10.1007/s00449-021-02679-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
|
27
|
Wang XN, Li B. Monolithic Gold Nanoparticles/Thiol-β-cyclodextrin-Functionalized TiO 2 Nanowires for Enhanced SALDI MS Detection and Imaging of Natural Products. Anal Chem 2021; 94:952-959. [PMID: 34932904 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.1c03764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Surface-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (SALDI MS) has been successfully applied in the analysis of various small molecules. In this work, gold nanoparticles/thiol-β-cyclodextrin-functionalized TiO2 nanowires (AuNPs/SH-β-CD-TiO2 NWs) were prepared to enhance the performance of SALDI MS and mass spectrometry imaging (MSI). A monolithic TiO2 film was first grown on an indium tin oxide (ITO) glass slide via a modified sol-gel method and treated in an alkaline environment to form nanowires. TiO2 NWs were chemically modified by SH-β-CD for immobilizing AuNPs densely and strongly. Compared with the conventional organic matrix 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid (DHB), the prepared AuNPs/SH-β-CD-TiO2 NWs showed superior performances on detection sensitivity, repeatability, and analyte coverage. Analytes typically detectable with negative-ion matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) MS could also be observed using AuNPs/SH-β-CD-TiO2 NWs in the positive ion mode. Its successful usage efficiently enhanced the SALDI MS detection of various small molecules such as carbohydrates, fatty acids, and bile acids in the positive ion mode. The developed SALDI substrate was further used to characterize and discriminate the natural and in vitro cultured Calculus Bovis, as well as natural and artificial Moschus. Furthermore, the spatial distribution of several natural products in spearmint leaves and potato tubers was explored by tissue imprinting and deposition on the AuNPs/SH-β-CD-TiO2 NW surface for SALDI MSI in dual-polarity mode, respectively. The wide application and satisfied detection sensitivity make AuNPs/SH-β-CD-TiO2 NWs ideal for SALDI MS and MSI of various natural products.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xian-Na Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Bin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Chaiqin Qingning Capsule Inhibits Influenza Virus Infection and Inflammation In Vitro and In Vivo. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2021; 2021:6640731. [PMID: 34552653 PMCID: PMC8452396 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6640731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Background Chaiqin Qingning Capsule (CQ-C) is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula commonly used to treat respiratory infectious diseases in China. The aim of this study was to detect the effect and mechanism of CQ-C treated with influenza virus in vitro and vivo. Methods The cytotoxicity and antiviral activity of CQ-C in vitro was determined by methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) assay. The regulation of CQ-C on cytokine/chemokine expression was evaluated using RT-qPCR. In addition, the effect of CQ-C on the pathway protein, NF-κB, and its phosphorylation level was verified by western blotting. After virus inoculation, BALB/c mice were administered with CQ-C of different concentrations for 7 days. Body weight, viral titer, lung pathology, and mortality of the mice were measured, and the level of inflammatory cytokines was also examined using real-time RT-qPCR. Results CQ-C inhibited the proliferation of influenza virus of various strains in vitro, with the 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) ranging from 49 to 59 µg/mL. CQ-C downregulated virus-induced gene expression of IL-6, TNF-α, CXCL8, CXCL10, CCL5, and COX-2 in a dose-dependent manner in A549 cells. Also, CQ-C inhibited the expression of NF-κB protein of the signaling pathway. Moreover, a decrease of the lung index and mortality of mice was observed in the CQ-C (1 g/kg/d) group. The related cytokine/chemokine expression was also decreased in the early stages of infection in the mRNA level. Conclusion As a clinically applied Chinese prescription, our study shows that CQ-C has a wide range of effects on several influenza viruses. Moreover, CQ-C could play an important role in anti-influenza activity and anti-inflammation in vitro and in vivo. Thus, CQ-C may be a promising treatment option for influenza.
Collapse
|
29
|
Abstract
Significance: As the central metabolic organ, the liver is exposed to a variety of potentially cytotoxic, proinflammatory, profibrotic, and carcinogenic stimuli. To protect the organism from these deleterious effects, the liver has evolved a number of defense systems, which include antioxidant substrates and enzymes, anti-inflammatory tools, enzymatic biotransformation systems, and metabolic pathways. Recent Advances: One of the pivotal systems that evolved during phylogenesis was the heme catabolic pathway. Comprising the important enzymes heme oxygenase and biliverdin reductase, this complex pathway has a number of key functions including enzymatic activities, but also cell signaling, and DNA transcription. It further generates two important bile pigments, biliverdin and bilirubin, as well as the gaseous molecule carbon monoxide. These heme degradation products have potent antioxidant, immunosuppressive, and cytoprotective effects. Recent data suggest that the pathway participates in the regulation of metabolic and hormonal processes implicated in the pathogenesis of hepatic and other diseases. Critical Issues: This review discusses the impact of the heme catabolic pathway on major liver diseases, with particular focus on the involvement of cellular targeting and signaling in the pathogenesis of these conditions. Future Directions: To utilize the biological consequences of the heme catabolic pathway, several unique therapeutic strategies have been developed. Research indicates that pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and lifestyle modifications positively affect the pathway, delivering potentially long-term clinical benefits. However, further well-designed studies are needed to confirm the clinical benefits of these approaches. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 35, 734-752.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Libor Vítek
- Fourth Department of Internal Medicine, and Institute of Medical Biochemistry and Laboratory Diagnostics, General University Hospital and First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Peng M, Yang M, Lu Y, Lin S, Gao H, Xie L, Huang B, Chen D, Shen A, Shen Z, Peng J, Chu J. Huoxin Pill inhibits isoproterenol-induced transdifferentiation and collagen synthesis in cardiac fibroblasts through the TGF-β/Smads pathway. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 275:114061. [PMID: 33892065 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2021.114061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Revised: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE The abnormal proliferation and differentiation of cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) are universally regarded as the key process for the progressive development of cardiac fibrosis following various cardiovascular diseases. Huoxin Pill (Concentrated pill, HXP) is a Chinese herbal formula for treating coronary heart disease. However, the cellular and molecular mechanisms of HXP in the treatment of myocardial fibrosis are still unclear. AIM OF THE STUDY To investigate the effects of HXP on CFs transdifferentiation and collagen synthesis under isoproterenol (ISO) conditions, as well as the potential mechanism of action. MATERIALS AND METHODS In vivo, we established a rat model of cardiac fibrosis induced by ISO, and administered with low or high dose of HXP (10 mg/kg/day or 30 mg/kg/day). The level of α-SMA was detected by immunohistochemistry examination, and combined with RNA-sequencing analysis to determine the protective effect of HXP on myocardial fibrosis rats. In vitro, by culturing primary rat CFs, we examined the effects of HXP on the proliferation and transdifferentiation of CFs using CCK8, scratch wound healing and immunofluorescence assays. Western blot was used to determine protein expression. RESULTS The findings revealed that HXP protects against ISO-induced cardiac fibrosis and CFs transdifferentiation in rats. RNA-sequencing and pathway analyses demonstrated 238 or 295 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and multiple enriched signal pathways, including transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) receptor signaling activates Smads, downregulation of TGF-β receptor signaling, signaling by TGF-β receptor complex, and collagen formation under treatment with low or high-dose of HXP. Moreover, HXP also markedly inhibited ISO-induced primary rat CFs proliferation, transdifferentiation, collagen synthesis and the upregulation of TGF-β1 and phosphorylated Smad2/3 protein expression. CONCLUSION HXP suppresses ISO-induced CFs transdifferentiation and collagen synthesis, and it may exert these effects in part by inhibiting the activation of the TGF-β/Smads pathway. This may be a new therapeutic tool for cardiac fibrosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Meizhong Peng
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350122, China
| | - Meiling Yang
- The Third People's Hospital Affiliated to Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350122, China
| | - Yan Lu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350122, China
| | - Shan Lin
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350122, China
| | - Huajian Gao
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350122, China
| | - Lingling Xie
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350122, China
| | - Bin Huang
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350122, China
| | - Daxin Chen
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350122, China
| | - Aling Shen
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350122, China
| | - Zhiqing Shen
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350122, China
| | - Jun Peng
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350122, China.
| | - Jianfeng Chu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350122, China.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Koganezawa N, Sekino Y, Kawakami H, Fuchino H, Kawahara N, Shirao T. NMDA receptor-dependent and -independent effects of natural compounds and crude drugs on synaptic states as revealed by drebrin imaging analysis. Eur J Neurosci 2021; 53:3548-3560. [PMID: 33851450 PMCID: PMC8365428 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.15231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2020] [Revised: 03/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Effective drugs that can cure cognitive impairments remain elusive. Because synaptic dysfunction has been correlated with cognitive impairments, drug development to target synaptic dysfunction is important. Recently, natural compounds and crude drugs have emerged as potential therapeutic agents for cognitive disorders. However, their effects on synaptic function remain unclear, because of lack of evaluation system with high reproducibility. We have recently developed highly reproducible in vitro high-content imaging analysis system for evaluation of synaptic function using drebrin as a marker for synaptic states. Therefore, we aimed to examine the direct effects of well-known natural compounds and crude drugs on synaptic states using this system. Rat hippocampal neurons were treated using natural compounds (nobiletin, diosgenin and tenuifolin) and crude drugs (Uncaria Hook [UH], Bezoar Bovis [BB], Coptis Rhizome [CR], Phellodendron Bark [PB] and Polygala Root [PR]). Immunocytochemical analysis was performed, and dendrite lengths and drebrin cluster densities were automatically quantified. We found that diosgenin, tenuifolin, CR, PB and PR decreased drebrin cluster densities, and the effects of PB and PR were partially dependent on N-methyl-D-aspartic acid-type glutamate receptors (NMDARs). Nobiletin and UH did not show any effects, whereas low-dose BB treatment increased drebrin cluster densities. Our results showed that diosgenin, tenuifolin, BB, CR, PB and PR appeared to directly change synaptic states. Particularly, the NMDAR dependency of PB and PR appears to affect synaptic plasticity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Noriko Koganezawa
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Yuko Sekino
- Endowed Laboratory of Human Cell-Based Drug Discovery, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Japan
| | - Hitomi Kawakami
- Research Center for Medicinal Plant Resources, National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health and Nutrition, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Fuchino
- Research Center for Medicinal Plant Resources, National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health and Nutrition, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Nobuo Kawahara
- Research Center for Medicinal Plant Resources, National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health and Nutrition, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Tomoaki Shirao
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan.,AlzMed, Inc, Bunkyo-ku, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Xi Lei San Attenuates Dextran Sulfate Sodium-Induced Colitis in Rats and TNF- α-Stimulated Colitis in CACO2 Cells: Involvement of the NLRP3 Inflammasome and Autophagy. Mediators Inflamm 2021; 2021:1610251. [PMID: 33967625 PMCID: PMC8084655 DOI: 10.1155/2021/1610251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic nonspecific inflammatory bowel disease with an unclear etiology. The active ingredients of traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) exert anti-inflammatory, antitumor, and immunomodulatory effects, and their multitarget characteristics provide them with a unique advantage for treating IBD. However, the therapeutic effects and underlying mechanisms of Xi Lei San in treatment of IBD remain unknown. This study was designed to investigate whether Xi Lei San exerted an anti-inflammatory effect in IBD via a mechanism involving NLRP3 inflammasomes and autophagy. Methods We successfully established a rat model of dextran sulfate sodium- (DSS-) induced colitis as well as a cellular model of TNF-α-induced colitis. Xi Lei San and indirubin were identified by HPLC analysis. Rats were treated with Xi Lei San or alum crystals, and their body weights and morphology of intestinal tissues were examined. A western blot analysis was performed to determine the expression levels of inflammasome-related proteins and autophagy-related proteins, ELISA was performed to analyze IL-1β, IL-18, and IL-33 concentrations, and flow cytometry was used to monitor cell apoptosis and ROS levels. Results Xi Lei San and indirubin were identified by HPLC analysis. We found that Xi Lei San could significantly increase the weights of rats and improve the structure of the intestinal tissues in DSS-induced colitis model rats. We also found that Xi Lei San significantly inhibited NLRP3 inflammasome activity, reduced the levels of inflammatory cytokines, and suppressed autophagy in DSS-induced colitis model rats. In vitro experiments revealed that Xi Lei San could repress apoptosis as well as ROS and inflammatory cytokine production in TNF-α-induced CACO2 cells by reducing the activity of NLRP3 inflammasomes and autophagy. Conclusions Our findings showed that Xi Lei San significantly ameliorated IBD by inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome, autophagy, and oxidative stress.
Collapse
|
33
|
Zhang Z, Zeng P, Gao W, Wu R, Deng T, Chen S, Tian X. Exploration of the Potential Mechanism of Calculus Bovis in Treatment of Primary Liver Cancer by Network Pharmacology. Comb Chem High Throughput Screen 2021; 24:129-138. [PMID: 32772910 DOI: 10.2174/1386207323666200808172051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2020] [Revised: 05/21/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
AIM AND OBJECTIVE Calculus Bovis (CB) has been employed to treat diseases for a long time. It has been identified to play significant anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor roles. However, the mechanism of treating primary liver cancer (PLC) remains to be revealed. This study aims to clarify the molecules and mechanisms of CB in treating PLC. MATERIALS AND METHODS After oral bioavailability (OB) and drug-likeness (DL) screening, 15 small molecules were identified as the potential ingredients against PLC. Following this, related targets network constructions and pathways were applied to clarify the mechanism of CB in treating PLC. An in vitro experiment was carried out to identify the function of CB in treating PLC. RESULTS Eleven compounds of CB were identified that play an anti-PLC role, including oleanolic acid, ergosterol, ursolic acid, etc. The potential targets which were observed include IL6, MAPK-8, VEGFA, Caspase-3, etc. Further analysis showed that the mechanism of CB in the treatment of PLC involved apoptosis-related pathways and immune-related pathways. CONCLUSION In summary, the current study combines network pharmacology and in vitro experiments to reveal the mechanism of CB against PLC. We concluded that 11 ingredients of CB have an anti-PLC effect. Furthermore, CB plays a key role in treating PLC mainly by apoptosisrelated pathways and immune-related pathways. Our experiment verifies that CB promotes the apoptosis of SMMC-7721.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Zhang
- Hunan Key Laboratory of TCM Prescription and Syndromes Translational Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, China
| | - Puhua Zeng
- Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410006, China
| | - Wenhui Gao
- School of Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, China
| | - Ruoxia Wu
- Hunan Key Laboratory of TCM Prescription and Syndromes Translational Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, China
| | - Tianhao Deng
- Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410006, China
| | - Siqin Chen
- Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410006, China
| | - Xuefei Tian
- Hunan Key Laboratory of TCM Prescription and Syndromes Translational Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, China
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Domínguez-Martín EM, Tavares J, Ríjo P, Díaz-Lanza AM. Zoopharmacology: A Way to Discover New Cancer Treatments. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10060817. [PMID: 32466543 PMCID: PMC7356688 DOI: 10.3390/biom10060817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Revised: 05/21/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Zoopharmacognosy is the multidisciplinary approach of the self-medication behavior of many kinds of animals. Recent studies showed the presence of antitumoral secondary metabolites in some of the plants employed by animals and their use for the same therapeutic purposes in humans. Other related and sometimes confused term is Zootherapy, which consists on the employment of animal parts and/or their by-products such as toxins, venoms, etc., to treat different human ailments. Therefore, the aim of this work is to provide a brief insight for the use of Zoopharmacology (comprising Zoopharmacognosy and Zootherapy) as new paths to discover drugs studying animal behavior and/or using compounds derived from animals. This work is focused on the approaches related to cancer, in order to propose a new promising line of research to overcome multidrug resistance (MDR). This novel subject will encourage the use of new alternative prospective ways to find new medicines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eva María Domínguez-Martín
- CBIOS-Center for Research in Biosciences & Health Technologies, Universidade Lusófona de Humanidades e Tecnologías, Campo Grande 376, 1749-024 Lisbon, Portugal; (E.M.D.-M.); (J.T.); (P.R.)
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Alcalá, Carretera Madrid-Barcelona, Km 33.100, 28805 Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
| | - Joana Tavares
- CBIOS-Center for Research in Biosciences & Health Technologies, Universidade Lusófona de Humanidades e Tecnologías, Campo Grande 376, 1749-024 Lisbon, Portugal; (E.M.D.-M.); (J.T.); (P.R.)
| | - Patrícia Ríjo
- CBIOS-Center for Research in Biosciences & Health Technologies, Universidade Lusófona de Humanidades e Tecnologías, Campo Grande 376, 1749-024 Lisbon, Portugal; (E.M.D.-M.); (J.T.); (P.R.)
- Instituto de Investigação do Medicamento (iMed.ULisboa), Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Ana María Díaz-Lanza
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Alcalá, Carretera Madrid-Barcelona, Km 33.100, 28805 Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-918-854-642
| |
Collapse
|