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Yuan R, Qian L, Xu H, Yun W. Cucurbitacins mitigate vascular neointimal hyperplasia by suppressing cyclin A2 expression and inhibiting VSMC proliferation. Animal Model Exp Med 2024. [PMID: 38970173 DOI: 10.1002/ame2.12457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Restenosis frequently occurs after percutaneous angioplasty in patients with vascular occlusion and seriously threatens their health. Substantial evidence has revealed that preventing vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation using a drug-eluting stent is an effective approach to improve restenosis. Cucurbitacins have been demonstrated to exert an anti-proliferation effect in various tumors and a hypotensive effect. This study aims to investigate the role of cucurbitacins extracted from Cucumis melo L. (CuECs) and cucurbitacin B (CuB) on restenosis. METHODS C57BL/6 mice were subjected to left carotid artery ligation and subcutaneously injected with CuECs or CuB for 4 weeks. Hematoxylin-Eosin, immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry staining were used to evaluate the effect of CuECs and CuB on neointimal hyperplasia. Western blot, real-time PCR, flow cytometry analysis, EdU staining and cellular immunofluorescence assay were employed to measure the effects of CuECs and CuB on cell proliferation and the cell cycle in vitro. The potential interactions of CuECs with cyclin A2 were performed by molecular docking. RESULTS The results demonstrated that both CuECs and CuB exhibited significant inhibitory effects on neointimal hyperplasia and proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells. Furthermore, CuECs and CuB mediated cell cycle arrest at the S phase. Autodocking analysis demonstrated that CuB, CuD, CuE and CuI had high binding energy for cyclin A2. Our study also showed that CuECs and CuB dramatically inhibited FBS-induced cyclin A2 expression. Moreover, the expression of cyclin A2 in CuEC- and CuB-treated neointima was downregulated. CONCLUSIONS CuECs, especially CuB, exert an anti-proliferation effect in VSMCs and may be potential drugs to prevent restenosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruqiang Yuan
- Advanced Institute for Medical Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Lei Qian
- Advanced Institute for Medical Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Hu Xu
- Health Science Center, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Weijing Yun
- Advanced Institute for Medical Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
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Liu C, Guo X, Zhang X. Modulation of atherosclerosis-related signaling pathways by Chinese herbal extracts: Recent evidence and perspectives. Phytother Res 2024; 38:2892-2930. [PMID: 38577989 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.8203] [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: 01/01/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease remains a preeminent cause of morbidity and mortality globally. The onset of atherosclerosis underpins the emergence of ischemic cardiovascular diseases, including coronary heart disease (CHD). Its pathogenesis entails multiple factors such as inflammation, oxidative stress, apoptosis, vascular endothelial damage, foam cell formation, and platelet activation. Furthermore, it triggers the activation of diverse signaling pathways including Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/Akt), NF-E2-related factor 2/antioxidant response element (Nrf2/ARE), the Notch signaling pathway, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR), nucleotide oligo-structural domain-like receptor thermoprotein structural domain-associated protein 3 (NLRP3), silencing information regulator 2-associated enzyme 1 (Sirt1), nuclear transcription factor-κB (NF-κB), Circular RNA (Circ RNA), MicroRNA (mi RNA), Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), and Janus kinase-signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT). Over recent decades, therapeutic approaches for atherosclerosis have been dominated by the utilization of high-intensity statins to reduce lipid levels, despite significant adverse effects. Consequently, there is a growing interest in the development of safer and more efficacious drugs and therapeutic modalities. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) offers a vital strategy for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases. Numerous studies have detailed the mechanisms through which TCM active ingredients modulate signaling molecules and influence the atherosclerotic process. This article reviews the signaling pathways implicated in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and the advancements in research on TCM extracts for prevention and treatment, drawing on original articles from various databases including Google Scholar, Medline, CNKI, Scopus, and Pubmed. The objective is to furnish a reference for the clinical management of cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changxing Liu
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Xinyi Guo
- Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Xulong Zhang
- Shaanxi Provincial Rehabilitation Hospital, Xi'an, China
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3
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Wang T, Cheng M, Jin J, Bai Y, Zhang D, Zhang S, Xu J. Hypomethylation of the LncRNA H19 promoter accelerates osteogenic differentiation of vascular smooth muscle cells by activating the Erk1/2 pathways. J Int Med Res 2024; 52:3000605241234567. [PMID: 38530015 DOI: 10.1177/03000605241234567] [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] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Vascular calcification is a common chronic kidney disease complication. This study aimed to investigate the function of long non-coding RNA (LncRNA) H19 in vascular calcification to explore new therapeutic strategies. METHODS We induced osteogenic differentiation and calcification of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) using β-glycerophosphate. Then, we detected the LncRNA H19 promoter methylation status and Erk1/2 pathways using methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction and western blotting, respectively. RESULTS Compared with the control group, high phosphorus levels induced VSMC calcification, accompanied by increases in LncRNA H19 and the osteogenic marker Runx2 and reduction of the contractile phenotype marker SM22a. LncRNA H19 knockdown inhibited osteogenic differentiation and calcification of VSMCs. However, the suppressed role of VSMC calcification caused by shRNA H19 was partially reversed by simultaneous activation of the Erk1/2 pathways. Mechanically, we found that the methylation rate of CpG islands in the LncRNA H19 promoter region was significantly lower in the high-phosphorus group, and the hypomethylation state elevated LncRNA H19 levels, which in turn regulated phosphorylated Erk1/2 expression. CONCLUSIONS LncRNA H19 promoted osteogenic differentiation and calcification of VSMCs by regulating the Erk1/2 pathways. Additionally, hypomethylation of LncRNA H19 promoter CpG islands upregulated LncRNA H19 levels and subsequently activated Erk1/2 phosphorylation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taoxia Wang
- Department of Nephrology, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, People's Republic of China
- Hebei Clinical Research Center for Chronic Kidney Disease, Hebei Key Laboratory of Vascular Calcification in Kidney Disease, Shijiazhuang, People's Republic of China
| | - Meijuan Cheng
- Department of Nephrology, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, People's Republic of China
- Hebei Clinical Research Center for Chronic Kidney Disease, Hebei Key Laboratory of Vascular Calcification in Kidney Disease, Shijiazhuang, People's Republic of China
| | - Jingjing Jin
- Department of Nephrology, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, People's Republic of China
- Hebei Clinical Research Center for Chronic Kidney Disease, Hebei Key Laboratory of Vascular Calcification in Kidney Disease, Shijiazhuang, People's Republic of China
| | - Yaling Bai
- Department of Nephrology, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, People's Republic of China
- Hebei Clinical Research Center for Chronic Kidney Disease, Hebei Key Laboratory of Vascular Calcification in Kidney Disease, Shijiazhuang, People's Republic of China
| | - Dongxue Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, People's Republic of China
- Hebei Clinical Research Center for Chronic Kidney Disease, Hebei Key Laboratory of Vascular Calcification in Kidney Disease, Shijiazhuang, People's Republic of China
| | - Shenglei Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, People's Republic of China
- Hebei Clinical Research Center for Chronic Kidney Disease, Hebei Key Laboratory of Vascular Calcification in Kidney Disease, Shijiazhuang, People's Republic of China
| | - Jinsheng Xu
- Department of Nephrology, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, People's Republic of China
- Hebei Clinical Research Center for Chronic Kidney Disease, Hebei Key Laboratory of Vascular Calcification in Kidney Disease, Shijiazhuang, People's Republic of China
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Domagała D, Data K, Szyller H, Farzaneh M, Mozdziak P, Woźniak S, Zabel M, Dzięgiel P, Kempisty B. Cellular, Molecular and Clinical Aspects of Aortic Aneurysm-Vascular Physiology and Pathophysiology. Cells 2024; 13:274. [PMID: 38334666 PMCID: PMC10854611 DOI: 10.3390/cells13030274] [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: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 01/27/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
A disturbance of the structure of the aortic wall results in the formation of aortic aneurysm, which is characterized by a significant bulge on the vessel surface that may have consequences, such as distention and finally rupture. Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a major pathological condition because it affects approximately 8% of elderly men and 1.5% of elderly women. The pathogenesis of AAA involves multiple interlocking mechanisms, including inflammation, immune cell activation, protein degradation and cellular malalignments. The expression of inflammatory factors, such as cytokines and chemokines, induce the infiltration of inflammatory cells into the wall of the aorta, including macrophages, natural killer cells (NK cells) and T and B lymphocytes. Protein degradation occurs with a high expression not only of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) but also of neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), interferon gamma (IFN-γ) and chymases. The loss of extracellular matrix (ECM) due to cell apoptosis and phenotype switching reduces tissue density and may contribute to AAA. It is important to consider the key mechanisms of initiating and promoting AAA to achieve better preventative and therapeutic outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominika Domagała
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Human Morphology and Embryology, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-368 Wroclaw, Poland; (D.D.); (K.D.); (H.S.); (S.W.)
| | - Krzysztof Data
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Human Morphology and Embryology, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-368 Wroclaw, Poland; (D.D.); (K.D.); (H.S.); (S.W.)
| | - Hubert Szyller
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Human Morphology and Embryology, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-368 Wroclaw, Poland; (D.D.); (K.D.); (H.S.); (S.W.)
| | - Maryam Farzaneh
- Fertility, Infertility and Perinatology Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran;
| | - Paul Mozdziak
- Prestage Department of Poultry Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA;
- Physiology Graduate Faculty, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27613, USA
| | - Sławomir Woźniak
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Human Morphology and Embryology, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-368 Wroclaw, Poland; (D.D.); (K.D.); (H.S.); (S.W.)
| | - Maciej Zabel
- Division of Histology and Embryology, Department of Human Morphology and Embryology, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-368 Wroclaw, Poland; (M.Z.); (P.D.)
- Division of Anatomy and Histology, University of Zielona Góra, 65-046 Zielona Góra, Poland
| | - Piotr Dzięgiel
- Division of Histology and Embryology, Department of Human Morphology and Embryology, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-368 Wroclaw, Poland; (M.Z.); (P.D.)
- Department of Physiotherapy, University School of Physical Education, 51-612 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Bartosz Kempisty
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Human Morphology and Embryology, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-368 Wroclaw, Poland; (D.D.); (K.D.); (H.S.); (S.W.)
- Physiology Graduate Faculty, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27613, USA
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Nicolaus Copernicus University, 87-100 Torun, Poland
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital and Masaryk University, 602 00 Brno, Czech Republic
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Qu H, Shen AL, Yang K, Huang MY, Li HZ, Yang WW, Fan SY, Tan L, Wang J, Peng YX, Chu JF, Peng J, Fu CG, Long LZ, Chen KJ. Efficacy and safety of Qingda granule versus valsartan capsule in Chinese grade 1 hypertensive patients with low-moderate risk: A randomized, double-blind, double dummy, non-inferiority, multi-center trial. Pharmacol Res 2024; 200:107052. [PMID: 38181857 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2023.107052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/31/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The efficacy and safety of Qingda granule (QDG) in managing blood pressure (BP) among grade 1 hypertensive patients with low-moderate risk remain uncertain. METHODS In the randomized, double-blind, double dummy, non-inferiority and multicenter trial, 552 patients with grade 1 hypertension at low-moderate risk were assigned at a ratio of 1:1 to receive either QDG or valsartan for 4 weeks, followed up by a subsequent 4 weeks. RESULTS Post-treatment, clinic systolic/diastolic BPs (SBP/DBP) were reduced by a mean change of 9.18/4.04 mm Hg in the QDG group and 9.85/5.05 mm Hg in the valsartan group (SBP P = 0.47, DBP P = 0.16). Similarly, 24-hour, daytime and nighttime BPs were proportional in both groups (P > 0.05) after 4 weeks treatment. After discontinuing medications for 4 weeks, the mean reduction of clinic SBP/DBP were 0.29/0.57 mm Hg in the QDG group compared to -1.59/-0.48 mm Hg in the valsartan group (SBP P = 0.04, DBP P = 0.04). Simultaneously, the 24-hour SBP/DBP were reduced by 0.9/0.31 mm Hg in the QDG group and -1.66/-1.08 mm Hg in the valsartan group (SBP P = 0.006, DBP P = 0.02). And similar results were observed regarding the outcomes of daytime and nighttime BPs. There was no difference in occurrence of adverse events between two groups (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION QDG proves to be efficacious for grade 1 hypertension at a low-to-medium risk, even after discontinuation of the medication for 4 weeks. These findings provide a promising option for managing grade 1 hypertension and suggest the potential for maintaining stable BP through intermittent administration of QDG. TRIAL REGISTRATION ChiCTR2000033890.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua Qu
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, China; National Cardiovascular Clinical Medical Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
| | - A-Ling Shen
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
| | - Kuo Yang
- Beijing Jiaotong University, China
| | - Ming-Yan Huang
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, China; National Cardiovascular Clinical Medical Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
| | - Hong-Zheng Li
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, China
| | - Wen-Wen Yang
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, China
| | | | - Ling Tan
- The Eighth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, China
| | - Jie Wang
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, China
| | - Yu-Xuan Peng
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, China
| | - Jian-Feng Chu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
| | - Jun Peng
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
| | - Chang-Geng Fu
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, China; National Cardiovascular Clinical Medical Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China.
| | - Lin-Zi Long
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, China.
| | - Ke-Ji Chen
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, China; National Cardiovascular Clinical Medical Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
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Qian L, Xu H, Yuan R, Yun W, Ma Y. Formononetin ameliorates isoproterenol induced cardiac fibrosis through improving mitochondrial dysfunction. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 170:116000. [PMID: 38070245 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.116000] [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: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Formononetin, an isoflavone compound, has been extensively researched due to its various biological activities, including a potent protective effect on the cardiovascular system. However, the impact of formononetin on cardiac fibrosis has not been investigated. In this study, C57BL/6 mice were used to establish cardiac fibrosis animal models by subcutaneous injecting of isoproterenol (ISO) and formononetin was orally administrated. The results showed that formononetin reversed ISO-induced heart stiffness revealed by early-to-atrial wave ratio (E/A ratio). Masson staining, western blot, immunohistochemistry and real-time PCR exhibited that the cardiac fibrosis and fibrosis-related proteins (collage III, fibronectin, TGF-β1, α-SMA, and vimentin) and genes (Col1a1, Col3a1, Acta2 and Tgfb1) induced by ISO were significantly suppressed by formononetin. Furthermore, by combining metabolomics and network pharmacology, we found three important targets (ALDH2, HADH, and MAOB), which are associated with mitochondrial function, were involved in the beneficial effect of formononetin. Further validation revealed that these three genes were more abundance in cardiomyocyte than in cardiac fibroblast. The mRNA expression of ALDH2 and HADH were decreased, while MOAB was increased in cardiomyocyte upon ISO treatment and these phenomena were reversed by formononetin. In addition, we investigated mitochondrial membrane potential and ROS production in cardiomyocytes, the results showed that formononetin effectively improved mitochondrial dysfunction induced by ISO. In summary, we demonstrated that formononetin via regulating the expressions of ALDH2, HADH, and MAOB in cardiomyocyte to improve mitochondrial dysfunction and alleviate β-adrenergic activation cardiac fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Qian
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, China; Advanced Institute for Medical Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, China
| | - Hu Xu
- Wuhu Hospital and Health Science Center, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Ruqiang Yuan
- Advanced Institute for Medical Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, China
| | - Weijing Yun
- Advanced Institute for Medical Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, China.
| | - Yufang Ma
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, China.
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Jia P, Chen D, Zhu Y, Wang M, Zeng J, Zhang L, Cai Q, Lian D, Zhao C, Xu Y, Chu J, Lin S, Peng J, Lin W. Liensinine improves AngII-induced vascular remodeling via MAPK/TGF-β1/Smad2/3 signaling. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 317:116768. [PMID: 37308031 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2023] [Revised: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Liensinine(Lien, C37H42N2O6) is an alkaloid compound from plumula nelumbinis that demonstrates an antihypertensive effect. The protective effects of Lien on target organs during hypertension are still unclear. AIM OF THE STUDY This study aimed to understand the mechanism of Lien during the treatment of hypertension, with emphasis on vascular protection. MATERIALS AND METHODS Lien was extracted and isolated from plumula nelumbinis for further study. In vivo model of Ang II-induced hypertension, non-invasive sphygmomanometer was used to detect the blood pressure in and out of the context of Lien intervention. Ultrasound was used to detect the abdominal aorta pulse wave and media thickness of hypertensive mice, and RNA sequencing was used to detect the differential genes and pathways of blood vessels. The intersection of Lien and MAPK protein molecules was detected by molecular interconnecting technique. The pathological conditions of abdominal aorta vessels of mice were observed by HE staining. The expression of PCNA, α-SMA, Collagen Type Ⅰ and Collagen Type Ⅲ proteins were detected by IHC. The collagen expression in the abdominal aorta was detected by Sirius red staining. The MAPK/TGF-β1/Smad2/3 signaling and the protein expression of PCNA and α-SMA was detected by Western blot. In vitro, MAPK/TGF-β1/Smad2/3 signaling and the protein expression of PCNA and α-SMA were detected by Western blot, and the expression of α-SMA was detected by immunofluorescence; ELISA was used to detect the effect of ERK/MAPK inhibitor PD98059 on Ang Ⅱ-induced TGF-β1secrete; and the detection TGF-β1and α-SMA protein expression by Western blot; Western blot was used to detect the effect of ERK/MAPK stimulant12-O-tetradecanoyl phorbol-13-acetate (TPA) on the protein expression of TGF-β1 and α-SMA. RESULTS Lien displayed an antihypertensive effect on Ang Ⅱ-induced hypertension, reducing the pulse wave conduction velocity of the abdominal aorta and the thickness of the abdominal aorta vessel wall, ultimately improving the pathological state of blood vessels. RNA sequencing further indicated that the differential pathways expressed in the abdominal aorta of hypertensive mice were enriched in proliferation-related markers compared with the Control group. The profile of differentially expressed pathways was ultimately reversed by Lien. Particularly, MAPK protein demonstrated good binding with the Lien molecule. In vivo, Lien inhibited Ang Ⅱ-induced abdominal aorta wall thickening, reduced collagen deposition in the ventral aortic vessel, and prevented the occurrence of vascular remodeling by inhibiting MAPK/TGF-β1/Smad2/3 signaling activation. In addition, Lien inhibited the activation of Ang II-induced MAPK and TGF-β1/Smad2/3 signaling, attenuating the expression of PCNA and inhibiting the reduction of α-SMA, collectively playing a role in the inhibition of Ang Ⅱ-induced hypertensive vascular remodeling. PD98059 alone could inhibit Ang Ⅱ-induced elevation of TGF-β1 and the decrease of α-SMA expression. Further, PD98059 combined with Lien had no discrepancy with the inhibitors alone. Simultaneously TPA alone could significantly increase the expression of TGF-β1 and decrease the expression of α-SMA. Further, Lien could inhibit the effect of TPA. CONCLUSION This study helped clarify the protective mechanism of Lien during hypertension, elucidating its role as an inhibitor of vascular remodeling and providing an experimental basis for the research and development of novel antihypertensive therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peizhi Jia
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
| | - Daxin Chen
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
| | - Ying Zhu
- Fujian Health College, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350101, China.
| | - Meiling Wang
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
| | - Jianwei Zeng
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Innovation and Transformation Center, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
| | - Ling Zhang
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
| | - Qiaoyan Cai
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
| | - Dawei Lian
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
| | - Chunyu Zhao
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
| | - Yaoyao Xu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
| | - Jianfeng Chu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
| | - Shan Lin
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
| | - Jun Peng
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Scientific and Economic Integration Service Platform for Translational Medicine of Cardiovascular Diseases in Fujian Province, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
| | - Wei Lin
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Innovation and Transformation Center, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
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Wu M, Zhang S, Zhang W, Zhou Y, Guo Z, Fang Y, Yang Y, Shen Z, Lian D, Shen A, Peng J. Qingda granule ameliorates vascular remodeling and phenotypic transformation of adventitial fibroblasts via suppressing the TGF-β1/Smad2/3 pathway. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 313:116535. [PMID: 37100260 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Qingda granule (QDG) exhibits significant therapeutic effects on high blood pressure, vascular dysfunction, and elevated proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells by inhibiting multiple pathways. However, the effects and underlying mechanisms of QDG treatment on hypertensive vascular remodeling are unclear. AIM OF THE STUDY The aim of this study was to determine the role of QDG treatment in hypertensive vascular remodeling in vivo and in vitro. MATERIALS AND METHODS An ACQUITY UPLC I-Class system coupled with a Xevo XS quadrupole time of flight mass spectrometer was used to characterize the chemical components of QDG. Twenty-five spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) were randomly divided into five groups, including SHR (equal volume of double distilled water, ddH2O), SHR + QDG-L (0.45 g/kg/day), SHR + QDG-M (0.9 g/kg/day), SHR + QDG-H (1.8 g/kg/day), and SHR + Valsartan (7.2 mg/kg/day) groups. QDG, Valsartan, and ddH2O were administered intragastrically once a day for 10 weeks. For the control group, ddH2O was intragastrically administered to five Wistar Kyoto rats (WKY group). Vascular function, pathological changes, and collagen deposition in the abdominal aorta were evaluated using animal ultrasound, hematoxylin and eosin and Masson staining, and immunohistochemistry. Isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantification (iTRAQ) was performed to identify differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) in the abdominal aorta, and Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses were performed. Cell Counting Kit-8 assays, phalloidin staining, transwell assays, and western-blotting were performed to explore the underlying mechanisms in primary isolated adventitial fibroblasts (AFs) stimulated with transforming growth factor-β 1 (TGF-β1) with or without QDG treatment. RESULTS Twelve compounds were identified from the total ion chromatogram fingerprint of QDG. In the SHR group, QDG treatment significantly attenuated the increased pulse wave velocity, aortic wall thickening, and abdominal aorta pathological changes and decreased Collagen I, Collagen III, and Fibronectin expression. The iTRAQ analysis identified 306 DEPs between SHR and WKY and 147 DEPs between QDG and SHR. GO and KEGG pathway analyses of the DEPs identified multiple pathways and functional processes involving vascular remodeling, including the TGF-β receptor signaling pathway. QDG treatment significantly attenuated the increased cell migration, actin cytoskeleton remodeling, and Collagen I, Collagen III, and Fibronectin expression in AFs stimulated with TGF-β1. QDG treatment significantly decreased TGF-β1 protein expression in abdominal aortic tissues in the SHR group and p-Smad2 and p-Smad3 protein expression in TGF-β1-stimulated AFs. CONCLUSIONS QDG treatment attenuated hypertension-induced vascular remodeling of the abdominal aorta and phenotypic transformation of adventitial fibroblasts, at least partly by suppressing TGF-β1/Smad2/3 signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meizhu Wu
- Clinical Research Institute, The Second Affiliated Hospital & Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Siyu Zhang
- Clinical Research Institute, The Second Affiliated Hospital & Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Wenqiang Zhang
- Clinical Research Institute, The Second Affiliated Hospital & Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Yuting Zhou
- Clinical Research Institute, The Second Affiliated Hospital & Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Zhi Guo
- Clinical Research Institute, The Second Affiliated Hospital & Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Yi Fang
- Clinical Research Institute, The Second Affiliated Hospital & Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Yanyan Yang
- Clinical Research Institute, The Second Affiliated Hospital & Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Innovation and Transformation Center, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Zhiqing Shen
- Clinical Research Institute, The Second Affiliated Hospital & Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Dawei Lian
- Clinical Research Institute, The Second Affiliated Hospital & Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Aling Shen
- Clinical Research Institute, The Second Affiliated Hospital & Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Innovation and Transformation Center, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
| | - Jun Peng
- Clinical Research Institute, The Second Affiliated Hospital & Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
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Zeng W, Zhang X, Lu Y, Wen Y, Xie Q, Yang X, He S, Guo Z, Li J, Shen A, Peng J. Neferine ameliorates hypertensive vascular remodeling modulating multiple signaling pathways in spontaneously hypertensive rats. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 158:114203. [PMID: 36916429 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.114203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2022] [Revised: 12/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neferine exhibits therapeutic effects on anti-hypertension. However, the effect of neferine on hypertensive vascular remodeling remains unexplored. Therefore, the current study was to investigate the effect of neferine on hypertensive vascular remodeling and its underlying mechanisms. METHODS Total 30 male spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) were divided randomly into five groups, including SHR, Neferine-L (2.5 mg/kg/day), Neferine-M (5 mg/kg/day), Neferine-H (10 mg/kg/day), and Valsartan (10 mg/kg/day) groups (n = 6 for each group). Wistar Kyoto (WKY) rats were set as control group (n = 6). Noninvasive blood pressure system, ultrasound, hematoxylin and eosin staining, masson trichrome staining were used to detect the blood pressure, pulse wave velocity (PWV), pathological changes and collagen content in abdominal aortas of SHRs. RNA-sequencing and immunohistochemistry(IHC) analyses were used to identify and verify the differentially expressed transcripts and activation of associated signaling pathways in SHRs. RESULTS Various concentrations of neferine or valsartan treatment substantially reduced the elevation of blood pressure, PWV, and abdominal aortic thickening of SHRs. RNA-sequencing and KEGG analyses recognized 441 differentially expressed transcripts and several enriched pathways (including PI3K/AKT and TGF-β/Smad2/3 signaling pathways) after neferine treatment. Masson trichromatic staining and IHC analysis demonstrated that neferine treatment decreased the collagen content and down-regulated the protein expression of PCNA, collagen I & III, and fibronectin, as well as p-PI3K, p-AKT, TGF-β1 and p-Smad2/3 in abdominal aortic tissues of SHRs. CONCLUSION Neferine treatment exhibits therapeutic effects on anti-hypertension and reduces vascular remodeling, as well as suppresses the abnormal activation of multiple signaling pathways, including PI3K/AKT and TGF-β1/Smad2/3 pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiquan Zeng
- Department of Orthopaedics, Affiliated Rehabilitation Hospital of Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350000, China; Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China
| | - Xiuli Zhang
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China
| | - Yao Lu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China
| | - Ying Wen
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China
| | - Qiurong Xie
- Department of Orthopaedics, Affiliated Rehabilitation Hospital of Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350000, China; Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China
| | - Xuan Yang
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China
| | - Shuyu He
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China
| | - Zhi Guo
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China
| | - Jiapeng Li
- Department of Physical Education, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China
| | - Aling Shen
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China.
| | - Jun Peng
- Department of Orthopaedics, Affiliated Rehabilitation Hospital of Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350000, China; Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China.
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10
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Long LZ, Chu JF, Qu H, Yang QN, Lu Y, Fu CG, Peng J, Chen KJ. Effects of Qingda granule on patients with grade 1 hypertension at low-medium risk: study protocol for a randomized, controlled, double-blind clinical trial. Trials 2023; 24:1. [PMID: 36588157 PMCID: PMC9806902 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-022-07006-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Numerous pre-clinical studies showed that Qingda granule (QDG) was effective in treating hypertension. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of QDG in reducing blood pressure among patients with grade 1 hypertension at low-medium risk. METHODS The study is designed as a randomized, multi-center, double-blinded, non-inferiority clinical trial. Five hundred fifty-two patients with grade 1 hypertension at low-medium risk from 13 hospitals will be recruited and randomly assigned to the QDG group (n = 276, treated with valsartan capsule simulation agent and QDG) or control group (n = 276, treated with valsartan capsule and QDG simulation agent). The treatment period will be 4 weeks and the follow-up period will last 4 weeks after treatment. Primary outcome will be a decreased value of systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure after treatment. And second outcome will include the decreased value of diastolic blood pressure and systolic blood pressure at the end of follow-up, the percentage of participants achieving normal blood pressure at the end of treatment and follow-up, the Hamilton Anxiety Scale and TCM syndrome scores at the end of treatment and follow-up, and levels of hypertensive hormones at end of treatment and follow-up. DISCUSSION This study will provide initial evidence regarding the clinical efficacy and safety of QDG in treating grade 1 hypertension at low-medium risk. TRIAL REGISTRATION Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR2000033890 . Registered on 15 June 2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin-zi Long
- grid.411504.50000 0004 1790 1622Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350112 China ,grid.410318.f0000 0004 0632 3409Department of Geriatrics, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100091 China
| | - Jian-feng Chu
- grid.411504.50000 0004 1790 1622Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350112 China ,grid.411504.50000 0004 1790 1622Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fu Zhou, China ,grid.411504.50000 0004 1790 1622 Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fu Zhou, China
| | - Hua Qu
- grid.410318.f0000 0004 0632 3409National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Cardiology, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China ,grid.410318.f0000 0004 0632 3409Department of Cardiovascular Disease Center, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100091 China
| | - Qiao-ning Yang
- grid.410318.f0000 0004 0632 3409National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Cardiology, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China ,grid.410318.f0000 0004 0632 3409Department of Cardiovascular Disease Center, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100091 China
| | - Yan Lu
- grid.411504.50000 0004 1790 1622Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350112 China
| | - Chang-geng Fu
- grid.410318.f0000 0004 0632 3409National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Cardiology, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China ,grid.410318.f0000 0004 0632 3409Department of Cardiovascular Disease Center, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100091 China
| | - Jun Peng
- grid.411504.50000 0004 1790 1622Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350112 China
| | - Ke-ji Chen
- grid.410318.f0000 0004 0632 3409National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Cardiology, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China ,grid.410318.f0000 0004 0632 3409Department of Cardiovascular Disease Center, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100091 China
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Qingda granule prevents obesity-induced hypertension and cardiac dysfunction by inhibiting adverse Akt signaling activation. Heliyon 2022; 8:e12099. [PMID: 36578425 PMCID: PMC9791312 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e12099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 10/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Obesity rates have rapidly increased worldwide and obesity-related diseases such as hypertension and cardiovascular diseases have become leading factors for global morbidity and mortality. Currently, there are no effective treatments that can prevent or reverse obesity long-term, and hence the prevention of obesity-related adverse effects such as hypertension is critical. Qingda granule (QDG) is a condensed Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) formula that has been used clinically for treating hypertension, however, its effectiveness in obesity-induced hypertension and cardiac dysfunction remains explored. Mouse models of obesity via long-term feeding of high-fat high-fructose diet (HFFD) were established to examine the effect and mechanism of QDG in protecting against obesity-induced hypertension and cardiac dysfunction. C57BL/6 mice were fed with either normal diet or HFFD over a period of 16 weeks and administered with either saline or QDG for assessment of obesity-induced blood pressure and cardiac function. QDG administration demonstrated robust anti-hypertensive effects and significantly attenuated HFFD-induced elevations in blood pressures. Moreover, QDG treatment also demonstrated robust cardioprotective effects during obesity-induced hypertension by markedly improving cardiac function and preventing cardiac hypertrophy. QDG protected against obesity-induced hypertension and cardiac dysfunction was due to its ability to prevent adverse chronic activation of Akt signaling pathway during long-term feeding of HFFD. Long-term usage of QDG treatments exhibited no observable side effects and also completely prevented obesity-induced organ damage, demonstrating the feasibility and safety of prolonged use. Our findings thus elucidated the role of QDG in preventing obesity-induced hypertension and cardiac hypertrophy via inhibiting adverse activation of Akt signaling activation. Therefore, our study provides the theoretical basis for the utilization of QDG as both a safe and effective drug in the therapeutic treatment of metabolic diseases such as obesity-induced hypertension.
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12
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Long L, Zhang X, Wen Y, Li J, Wei L, Cheng Y, Liu H, Chu J, Fang Y, Xie Q, Shen A, Peng J. Qingda Granule Attenuates Angiotensin II-Induced Renal Apoptosis and Activation of the p53 Pathway. Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:770863. [PMID: 35222007 PMCID: PMC8867011 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.770863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Qingda granules (QDG) exhibit antihypertension and multiple-target-organ protection. However, the therapeutic potential of QDG on hypertensive renal injury remains unknown. Therefore, the main objective of the current study is to explore the effects and underlying mechanisms of QDG treatment on renal injury in angiotensin (Ang) II-infused mice. Methods and results: Mice were infused with Ang II (500 ng/kg/min) or saline for 4 weeks with subcutaneously implanted osmotic pumps. After infusion, mice in the Ang II + QDG group were intragastrically administrated with QDG daily (1.145 g/kg/day), whereas the control group and Ang II group were intragastrically administrated with the same amount of double-distilled water. Blood pressure of the mice monitored using the CODA™ noninvasive blood pressure system revealed that QDG treatment significantly attenuated elevated blood pressure. Moreover, hematoxylin-eosin staining indicated that QDG treatment ameliorated Ang II-induced renal morphological changes, including glomerular sclerosis and atrophy, epithelial cell atrophy, and tubular dilatation. RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) identified 662 differentially expressed transcripts (DETs) in renal tissues of Ang II-infused mice, which were reversed after QDG treatment. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis based on DETs in both comparisons of Ang II vs. Control and Ang II + QDG vs. Ang II identified multiple enriched pathways, including apoptosis and p53 pathways. Consistently, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT) dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) staining and Annexin V staining revealed that QDG treatment significantly attenuated Ang II-induced cell apoptosis in renal tissues and cultured renal tubular epithelial cell lines (NRK-52E). Furthermore, western blot analysis indicated that Ang II infusion significantly upregulated the protein expression of p53, BCL2-associated X (BAX), cle-caspase-9, and cle-caspase-3, while downregulating the protein expression of BCL-2 in renal tissues, which were attenuated after QDG treatment. Conclusion: Collectively, QDG treatment significantly attenuated hypertensive renal injury, partially by attenuating renal apoptosis and suppressing p53 pathways, which might be the underlying mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linzi Long
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fuzhou, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fuzhou, China
| | - Xiuli Zhang
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fuzhou, China
| | - Ying Wen
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fuzhou, China
| | - Jiapeng Li
- Department of Physical Education, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Lihui Wei
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fuzhou, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fuzhou, China
| | - Ying Cheng
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fuzhou, China
| | - Huixin Liu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fuzhou, China
| | - Jianfeng Chu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fuzhou, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fuzhou, China
| | - Yi Fang
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fuzhou, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fuzhou, China
| | - Qiurong Xie
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fuzhou, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fuzhou, China
| | - Aling Shen
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fuzhou, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fuzhou, China
| | - Jun Peng
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fuzhou, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fuzhou, China
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Liu J, Dong Q, Du G, Wang J, An Y, Liu J, Su J, Xie H, Yin J. Identification of metabolites in plasma related to different biological activities of Panax ginseng and American ginseng. RAPID COMMUNICATIONS IN MASS SPECTROMETRY : RCM 2022; 36:e9219. [PMID: 34740284 DOI: 10.1002/rcm.9219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Revised: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE Panax ginseng (PG) and American ginseng (AMG) are both medicinal plants of the Panax genus in the Acanthopanax family. Although PG and AMG have similar components of ginsenosides, there are many differences of their bioactivities. In this study, the biochemical mechanisms of different bioactivities of PG and AMG were explored by researching the differential metabolites in plasma after administration of each of PG and AMG. METHODS In order to explore the material basis of differential bioactivities, two groups of mice were administrated orally with PG and AMG, and the method of metabolomics was used to identify the differential metabolites in plasma. Then network pharmacology was used based on the differential metabolites. Afterward, the metabolite-target-pathway network of PG and AMG was constructed; thus the pathways related to different bioactivities were analyzed. RESULTS Through principal component analysis and orthogonal projections to latent structures discriminant analysis, there were 10 differential metabolites identified in the PG group and 8 differential metabolites identified in the AMG group. Based on network pharmacology, the differential metabolites were classified and related to differential bioactivities of PG and AMG. In the PG group, there were 6 metabolites related to aphrodisiac effect and exciting the nervous system, and 5 metabolites associated with raised blood pressure. In the AMG group, 5 metabolites were classified as having the effect of inhibiting the nervous system, and 6 metabolites were related to antihypertensive effect. CONCLUSIONS This study explored the material basis of the differential biological activities between PG and AMG, which is significant for the research of PG and AMG use and to promote human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jihua Liu
- Department of Natural Product Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Qinghai Dong
- Department of Natural Product Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Guangguang Du
- Department of Natural Product Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jia Wang
- Department of Natural Product Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yang An
- Department of Natural Product Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jiayin Liu
- Department of Natural Product Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jun Su
- Department of Natural Product Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Hongliu Xie
- Department of Natural Product Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jianyuan Yin
- Department of Natural Product Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Jilin University, Changchun, China
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Wu M, Wu X, Cheng Y, Shen Z, Chen X, Xie Q, Chu J, Li J, Liu L, Wei L, Long L, Cai Q, Peng J, Shen A. Qingda Granule Attenuates Angiotensin II-Induced Blood Pressure and Inhibits Ca 2+/ERK Signaling Pathway. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:688877. [PMID: 34393778 PMCID: PMC8358933 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.688877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: As a well-known traditional Chinese medicine formula prescribed by academician Ke-ji Chen, Qingda granule (QDG) lowered the blood pressure of spontaneously hypertensive rats and attenuated hypertensive cardiac remodeling and inflammation. However, its functional role and underlying mechanisms on hypertensive vascular function remain largely unclear. This study aims to assess the effects of QDG treatment on Angiotensin II- (AngII-) induced hypertension and vascular function and explore its underlying mechanisms both in vitro and in vivo. Methods: In an in vivo study, 25 male C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into five groups, including Control, AngII, AngII + QDG-L, AngII + QDG-M, and AngII + QDG-H groups (n = 5 for each group). Mice in AngII and AngII + QDG-L/-M/-H groups were infused with AngII (500 ng/kg/min), while in the Control group, they were infused with saline. Mice in AngII + QDG were intragastrically given different concentrations of QDG (0.5725, 1.145, or 2.29 g/kg/day), while in Control and AngII groups, they were intragastrically given equal volumes of double distilled water for 2 weeks. Blood pressure was determined at 0, 1, and 2 weeks of treatment. Ultrasound was used to detect the pulse wave velocity (PWV) and HE staining to detect the pathological change of the abdominal aorta. RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) was performed to identify the differentially expressed transcripts (DETs) and related signaling pathways. IHC was used to detect the expression of p-ERK in the abdominal aorta. Primary isolated rat vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) were used to assess the cellular Ca2+ release and activation of the ERK pathway by confocal microscope and western blotting analysis, respectively. Results: QDG treatment significantly alleviated the elevated blood pressure, the PWV, and the thickness of the abdominal aorta in AngII-induced hypertensive mice. RNA-seq and KEGG analyses identified 1,505 DETs and multiple enriched pathways (including vascular contraction and calcium signaling pathway) after QDG treatment. Furthermore, confocal microscope showed that QDG treatment partially attenuated the increase of Ca2+ release with the stimulation of AngII in cultured VSMCs. In addition, IHC and western blotting indicated that QDG treatment also partially alleviated the increase of phospho-ERK levels in abdominal aorta tissues of mice and cultured VSMCs after the infusion or stimulation of AngII. Conclusion: QDG treatment attenuated the elevation of blood pressure, abdominal aorta dysfunction, pathological changes, Ca2+ release, and activation of the ERK signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meizhu Wu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Xiangyan Wu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Ying Cheng
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Zhiqing Shen
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Xiaoping Chen
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Qiurong Xie
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Jianfeng Chu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Jiapeng Li
- Department of Physical Education, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Liya Liu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Lihui Wei
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Linzi Long
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Department of Geriatrics, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Qiaoyan Cai
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Jun Peng
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Aling Shen
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
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15
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Yu J, Li W, Zhao L, Qiao Y, Yu J, Huang Q, Yang Y, Xiao X, Guo D. Quyu Shengxin capsule (QSC) inhibits Ang-II-induced abnormal proliferation of VSMCs by down-regulating TGF-β, VEGF, mTOR and JAK-STAT pathways. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 275:114112. [PMID: 33905820 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2021.114112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2021] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/03/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Quyu Shengxin capsule (QSC) is an herbal compound commonly used to treat blood stasis syndrome in China, and blood stasis syndrome is considered to be the root of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) in traditional Chinese medicine. However, the potential molecular mechanism of QSC is still unknown. AIM OF STUDY To study the therapeutic effect of QSC on the abnormal proliferation of VSMCs induced by Ang-II, and to explore its possible mechanism of action. MATERIALS AND METHODS Qualitative analysis and quality control of QSC through UPLC-MS/MS and UPLC. The rat thoracic aorta vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) were cultured in vitro, and then stimulated with Angiotensin Ⅱ (Ang-II) (10-7 mol/L) for 24 h to establish a cardiovascular cell model. The cells were then treated with different concentrations of QSC drug-containing serum or normal goat serum. MTT assay was used to detect the viability of VSMCs and abnormal cell proliferation. In order to analyze the possible signal transduction pathways, the content of various factors in the supernatant of VSMCs was screened and determined by means of the Luminex liquid suspension chip detection platform, and the phosphoprotein profile in VSMCs was screened by Phospho Explorer antibody array. RESULTS Compared with the model group, serum cell viability and inflammatory factor levels with QSC were significantly decreased (P < 0.001). In addition, the expression levels of TGF-β, VEGF, mTOR and JAK-STAT in the QSC-containing serum treatment group were significantly lower than those in the model group. QSC may regulate the pathological process of CVD by reducing the levels of inflammatory mediators and cytokines, and protecting VSMCs from the abnormal proliferation induced by Ang-II. CONCLUSION QSC inhibits Ang-II-induced abnormal proliferation of VSMCs, which is related to the down-regulation of TGF-β, VEGF, mTOR and JAK-STAT pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinjin Yu
- School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, PR China
| | - Weifeng Li
- School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, PR China.
| | - Lintao Zhao
- Shaanxi Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Xi'an, PR China
| | - Yuan Qiao
- Shaanxi Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Xi'an, PR China
| | - Jiabao Yu
- School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, PR China
| | - Qiuxia Huang
- School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, PR China
| | - Yajie Yang
- School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, PR China
| | - Xin Xiao
- School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, PR China
| | - Dong Guo
- Shaanxi Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Xi'an, PR China.
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16
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Xuan C, Xi YM, Zhang YD, Tao CH, Zhang LY, Cao WF. Yiqi Jiedu Huayu Decoction Alleviates Renal Injury in Rats With Diabetic Nephropathy by Promoting Autophagy. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:624404. [PMID: 33912044 PMCID: PMC8072057 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.624404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetic nephropathy (DN), a common microvascular complication of diabetes, is one of the main causes of end-stage renal failure (ESRD) and imposes a heavy medical burden on the world. Yiqi Jiedu Huayu decoction (YJHD) is a traditional Chinese medicine formula, which has been widely used in the treatment of DN and has achieved stable and reliable therapeutic effects. However, the mechanism of YJHD in the treatment of DN remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the mechanism of YJHD in the treatment of DN. Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into a normal control group, a diabetic group, an irbesartan group, and three groups receiving different doses of YJHD. Animal models were constructed using streptozotocin and then treated with YJHD for 12 consecutive weeks. Blood and urine samples were collected during this period, and metabolic and renal function was assessed. Pathological kidney injury was evaluated according to the kidney appearance, hematoxylin-eosin staining, Masson staining, periodic-acid Schiff staining, periodic-acid Schiff methenamine staining, and transmission electron microscopy. The expression levels of proteins and genes were detected by immunohistochemistry, western blotting, and real-time qPCR. Our results indicate that YJHD can effectively improve renal function and alleviate renal pathological injury, including mesangial matrix hyperplasia, basement membrane thickening, and fibrosis. In addition, YJHD exhibited podocyte protection by alleviating podocyte depletion and morphological damage, which may be key in improving renal function and reducing renal fibrosis. Further study revealed that YJHD upregulated the expression of the autophagy-related proteins LC3II and Beclin-1 while downregulating p62 expression, suggesting that YJHD can promote autophagy. In addition, we evaluated the activity of the mTOR pathway, the major signaling pathway regulating the level of autophagy, and the upstream PI3K/Akt and AMPK pathways. YJHD activated the AMPK pathway while inhibiting the PI3K/Akt and mTOR pathways, which may be crucial to its promotion of autophagy. In conclusion, our study shows that YJHD further inhibits the mTOR pathway and promotes autophagy by regulating the activity of the PI3K/Akt and AMPK pathways, thereby improving podocyte injury, protecting renal function, and reducing renal fibrosis. This study provides support for the application of and further research into YJHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Xuan
- Department of Combination of Chinese and Western Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Chongqing Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Prevention and Cure of Metabolic Diseases, Chongqing, China
| | - Yu-Meng Xi
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Prevention and Cure of Metabolic Diseases, Chongqing, China.,College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yu-Di Zhang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Prevention and Cure of Metabolic Diseases, Chongqing, China.,College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Chun-He Tao
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Prevention and Cure of Metabolic Diseases, Chongqing, China.,College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Lan-Yue Zhang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Prevention and Cure of Metabolic Diseases, Chongqing, China.,College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Wen-Fu Cao
- Department of Combination of Chinese and Western Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Chongqing Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Prevention and Cure of Metabolic Diseases, Chongqing, China.,College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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17
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Chen X, Long L, Cheng Y, Chu J, Shen Z, Liu L, Li J, Xie Q, Liu H, Wu M, Chen Y, Peng J, Shen A. Qingda granule attenuates cardiac fibrosis via suppression of the TGF-β1/Smad2/3 signaling pathway in vitro and in vivo. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 137:111318. [PMID: 33556875 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.111318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Revised: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiac fibrosis plays an important role in hypertension-related contractile dysfunction and heart failure. Qingda granule (QDG), derived from the Qingxuan Jiangya decoction, has been used clinically for more than 60 years to treat hypertension. However, the effect of QDG on hypertensive cardiac fibrosis remains largely unknown. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of QDG on cardiac fibrosis and explore the underlying mechanism in vivo and in vitro. For in vivo experiments, 30 male spontaneously hypertensive rats were randomly divided into groups that received no QDG or one of three doses (0.45, 0.9 or 1.8 g/kg/day). Positive-control animals received valsartan (VAL, 7.2 mg/kg/day). Treatments were administered by gavage for 10 weeks. All three doses of QDG and VAL led to significantly lower blood pressure than in SHR animals. Besides, all three doses of QDG and VAL attenuated pathological changes in SHR animals. However, only intermediate, high concentrations of QDG and VAL led to significantly lower left ventricle ejection fraction and left ventricle fractional shortening than in SHR animals. Therefore, the minimum and effective QDG dose (intermediate concentration of QDG) was selected for subsequent animal experiments in this study. Our results showed that intermediate concentration of QDG also significantly mitigated the increases in levels of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), collagen III, transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) and in the ratio of phospho-Smad2/3 to total Smad2/3 protein in cardiac tissue, based on immunohistochemistry, Western blotting, and Masson staining. For in vitro experiments, primary cardiac fibroblasts were stimulated with 100 nM angiotensin II in the presence or absence of QDG. And we tested different concentrations of QDG (3.125, 6.25, 12.5, 25, 50 μg/mL) in the cell viability experiment. Our results showed that 3.125, 6.25 and 12.5 μg/mL of QDG treatment for 24 h didn't affect the cell viability of cardiac fibroblasts. Consistently, QDG at 6.25 or 12.5 μg/mL significantly reduced cell viability and down-regulated α-SMA in primary cardiac fibroblasts were stimulated with 100 nM angiotensin II. Therefore, QDG at 12.5 μg/mL was chosen for the following cell experiment. Our results showed that QDG at 12.5 μg/mL alleviated the increase of PCNA, collagen Ⅲ, TGF-β1 expression, and the ratio of phospho-Smad2/3 to total Smad2/3 protein. Our studies in vitro and in vivo suggest that QDG reduces blood pressure and cardiac fibrosis as well as protecting cardiac function, and that it exerts these effects in part by suppressing TGF-β1/Smad2/3 signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoping Chen
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Linzi Long
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Department of Geriatrics, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100091, China
| | - Ying Cheng
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Jianfeng Chu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Zhiqing Shen
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Liya Liu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Jiapeng Li
- Department of Physical Education, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Qiurong Xie
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Huixin Liu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Meizhu Wu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Youqin Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Jun Peng
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
| | - Aling Shen
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
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18
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Cheng Y, Shen A, Wu X, Shen Z, Chen X, Li J, Liu L, Lin X, Wu M, Chen Y, Chu J, Peng J. Qingda granule attenuates angiotensin II-induced cardiac hypertrophy and apoptosis and modulates the PI3K/AKT pathway. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 133:111022. [PMID: 33378940 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2020.111022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Revised: 11/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Qingda granule (QDG), simplified from Qingxuan Jiangya Decoction, is a well-known traditional Chinese medicine formula that has been used for decades to treat hypertension. However, the cardioprotective effects of QDG on Ang II-induced hypertension remain unknown. This study aimed to investigate the effects of QDG on hypertension-induced cardiac hypertrophy and apoptosis, as well as explore its underlying mechanisms. Mice were infused with Ang II (500 ng/kg/min) or saline solution as control, then administered oral QDG (1.145 g/kg/day) or saline for two weeks. QDG treatment attenuated the elevation in blood pressure caused by Ang II, as well as the decreased left ventricle ejection fractions and fractional shortening. Moreover, QDG treatment significantly alleviated the Ang II-induced elevation of the ratio of heart weight to tibia length, as well as cardiac injury, hypertrophy, and apoptosis. In cultured H9C2 cells stimulated with Ang II, QDG partially reversed the increase in cell surface area and number of apoptotic cells, up-regulation of hypertrophy markers ANP and BNP, and activation of caspases-9 and -3. QDG also partially reversed Ang II-induced accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), depolarization of the mitochondrial membrane, release of cytochrome C, up-regulation of Bax, and decrease in levels of p-PI3K, p-AKT, and Bcl-2. These results suggest that QDG can significantly attenuate Ang II-induced hypertension, cardiac hypertrophy and apoptosis, and it may exert these effects in part by suppressing ROS production and activating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.
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MESH Headings
- Angiotensin II
- Animals
- Apoptosis/drug effects
- Blood Pressure/drug effects
- Cell Line
- Disease Models, Animal
- Drugs, Chinese Herbal/pharmacology
- Gene Expression Regulation
- Gene Regulatory Networks
- Hypertension/chemically induced
- Hypertension/enzymology
- Hypertension/physiopathology
- Hypertension/prevention & control
- Hypertrophy, Left Ventricular/chemically induced
- Hypertrophy, Left Ventricular/enzymology
- Hypertrophy, Left Ventricular/pathology
- Hypertrophy, Left Ventricular/prevention & control
- Male
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Myocytes, Cardiac/drug effects
- Myocytes, Cardiac/enzymology
- Myocytes, Cardiac/pathology
- Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase/metabolism
- Phosphorylation
- Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-akt/metabolism
- Rats
- Reactive Oxygen Species/metabolism
- Signal Transduction
- Mice
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Cheng
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
| | - Aling Shen
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
| | - Xiangyan Wu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
| | - Zhiqing Shen
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
| | - Xiaoping Chen
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
| | - Jiapeng Li
- Department of Physical Education, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
| | - Liya Liu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
| | - Xiaoying Lin
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
| | - Meizhu Wu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
| | - Youqin Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA.
| | - Jianfeng Chu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
| | - Jun Peng
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
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