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Xiao Q, Huang J, Zhu X, Shi M, Chen L, Chen L, Liu X, Liu R, Zhong Y. Formononetin ameliorates dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis via enhancing antioxidant capacity, promoting tight junction protein expression and reshaping M1/M2 macrophage polarization balance. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 142:113174. [PMID: 39288627 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.113174] [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: 07/11/2024] [Revised: 08/30/2024] [Accepted: 09/11/2024] [Indexed: 09/19/2024]
Abstract
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a complex, refractory inflammatory bowel disease characterized impared intestinal mucosal barrier and imbalanced M1/M2 macrophage polarization mediating its progression. Formononetin (FN), a bioactive isoflavone with established anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, shows promise in mitigating UC, yet its therapeutic and underlying mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, colitis was induced in mice by administering 2.5% (w/v) dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) solution for 7 days. Oral (25, 50, and 100 mg/kg) FN for 10 days significantly ameliorated colitis symptoms in a dose-dependent manner, by mitigating body weight loss, reducing disease activity index (DAI), colonic weight, and colonic weight index, while enhancing survival rates and colonic length. Histological analysis revealed FN remarkably suppressed inflammatory damage in colonic tissues. Furthermore, FN modulated the expression of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines and enhanced antioxidant capacity. Notably, FN treatment significantly enhanced the expression of tight junction (TJ) proteins (claudin-1, ZO-1, occludin) at both protein and mRNA levels in the colon tissues, suggesting improved intestinal barrier function. Crucially, FN inhibited macrophage infiltration in colonic tissues and rebalanced M1/M2 macrophage polarization. While, macrophage depletion largely abrogated FN's protective effects against colitis, indicating a crucial role for macrophages in mediating FN's therapeutic response. Overall, FN effectively alleviated colitis primarily via modulating inflammatory cytokine expression, enhancing antioxidant capacity, upregulating TJs proteins expression, and remodeling M1/M2 macrophage polarization equilibrium. These findings suggest that FN could be the next candidate to unlocking UC's treatment challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiuping Xiao
- College of Pharmacy, Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330004, Jiangxi Province, China; Formula-Pattern Research Center, Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330004, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Jiaqi Huang
- Formula-Pattern Research Center, Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330004, Jiangxi Province, China; College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330004, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Xiyan Zhu
- Formula-Pattern Research Center, Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330004, Jiangxi Province, China; College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330004, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Min Shi
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330004, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Liling Chen
- Laboratory Animal Research Center for Science and Technology, Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330004, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Lai Chen
- Institute of Cancer Research, Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330004, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Xuan Liu
- Laboratory Animal Research Center for Science and Technology, Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330004, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Ronghua Liu
- College of Pharmacy, Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330004, Jiangxi Province, China.
| | - Youbao Zhong
- Formula-Pattern Research Center, Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330004, Jiangxi Province, China; College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330004, Jiangxi Province, China.
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2
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Zhou YL, Wu J, Wang HL, Feng WW, Peng F, Zhang RQ, Yan HL, Liu J, Tan YZ, Peng C. Fuzi lizhong pills alter microbial community compositions and metabolite profiles in ulcerative colitis rat with spleen-kidney yang deficiency syndrome. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 335:118645. [PMID: 39089661 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.118645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2024] [Revised: 07/06/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel condition that is frequently related with Spleen-Kidney Yang Deficiency Syndrome (SKYD) in Chinese medicine. Fuzi Lizhong Pill (FLZP), a traditional medicine for SKYD, has been utilized in China for generations, although the exact mechanism by which it treats UC is unknown. AIM OF THE STUDY The goal of this study is to further understand FLZP's therapeutic mechanism in SKYD-associated UC. MATERIALS AND METHODS To investigate the impact of FLZP on SKYD-associated UC, we used a comprehensive method that included serum metabolomics and gut microbiota profiling. The chemical composition of FLZP was determined using mass spectrometry. UC rats with SKYD were induced and treated with FLZP. Serum metabolomics and 16S rRNA microbial community analysis were used to evaluate FLZP's effects on endogenous metabolites and gut microbiota, respectively. Correlation analysis investigated the association between metabolites and intestinal flora. A metabolic pathway analysis was undertaken to discover putative FLZP action mechanisms. RESULTS FLZP contains 109 components, including liquiritin (584.8176 μg/g), benzoylaconine (16.3087 μg/g), benzoylhypaconine (31.9583), and hypaconitine (8.1160 μg/g). FLZP predominantly regulated seven metabolites and eight metabolic pathways involved in amino acid and nucleotide metabolism, with an emphasis on energy metabolism and gastrointestinal digestion. FLZP also influenced intestinal flora variety, increasing probiotic abundance while decreasing pathogenic bacteria prevalence. An integrated investigation identified associations between changes in certain gut flora and energy metabolism, specifically the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle. CONCLUSIONS FLZP successfully cures UC in SKYD rats by regulating amino acid and energy metabolism. Its positive effects may include altering microbiota composition and metabolite profiles in UC rats with SKYD. These findings shed light on FLZP's mode of action and its implications for UC management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yin-Lin Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Pharmacy College, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China; Pharmacy Department, Zigong Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, 643011, China
| | - Jing Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Pharmacy College, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Hong-Liang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Pharmacy College, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China; School of Basic Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Wu-Wen Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Pharmacy College, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Fu Peng
- Department of Pharmacology, Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China.
| | - Ruo-Qi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Pharmacy College, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Hong-Ling Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Pharmacy College, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Juan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Pharmacy College, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Yu-Zhu Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Pharmacy College, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China.
| | - Cheng Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Pharmacy College, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China.
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3
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Ji Z, Sun B, Yang T, Li X, Zhang Z, Bao M, Zhao L, Lou H, Li Y, Sun G, Huang J. Holistic quality assessment and monitoring of YiXinShu capsule based on three-dimensional fingerprints combined with quantitative analysis, antioxidant activity and chemometrics. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 335:118630. [PMID: 39053720 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.118630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2024] [Revised: 07/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE YiXinShu capsule (YXSC), originally from the classical TCM formula named "Sheng-Mai-San", has been extensively utilized in clinic for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases. However, there were few reports about the quality assessment of YXSCs both internationally and domestically. AIM OF THE STUDY The objective was to develop a multi-strategy platform incorporating systematic quantitative fingerprint analysis and antioxidant activity determination, with chemometric analysis and bivariate correlation analysis as the auxiliary approaches, to assess and monitor the quality of YXSCs. MATERIALS AND METHODS Firstly, according to the Chinese Pharmacopoeia (2020 edition), 12 key indicator components from seven herb medicines were quantified by HPLC method. Then, three-dimensional fingerprints comprising five-wavelength fusion fingerprint (FWF-FP), electrochemical fingerprint (EC-FP) and Differential Scanning Calorimetry fingerprint (DSC-FP) were established to assess and monitor YXSCs using systematically quantified fingerprint method (SQFM) and principal component analysis (PCA). Moreover, by integrating the analysis of the three-dimensional fingerprints, the quality of YXSCs from different batches was effectively screened. Finally, the antioxidant activity of this TCM was assessed through DPPH and ABTS methods, and the L-ascorbic acid equivalent antioxidant capacity (AEAC) values were compared to evaluate the antioxidant activities of the two methods. A Partial Least Squares (PLS) model was used to develop the spectrum-activity relationship between FWF-FP and AEAC, and a bivariate correlation analysis (BCA) was used to assess the correlation between FWF-FP and EC-FP. RESULTS The key indexes including tanshinone I, tol, toe, Atp, first exothermic peak, and second exothermic peak can differentiate between various batches of YXSCs based on their three-dimensional fingerprint profiles. The integration evaluation results from 42 batches of YXSCs were categorized into 2-5 grades, indicating good quality consistency across different batches. In vitro studies have indicated a significant antioxidant activity capacity of YXSCs. The PLS model revealed that 37 out of the 41 fingerprint peaks exhibited antioxidant activity. The overall trend of BCA was consistent with PLS model results. CONCLUSION This research presents a scientific and holistic strategy for the quality consistency evaluation of YXSCs, thereby offering an effective approach for the thorough evaluation of TCMs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengchao Ji
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First Hospital of Jilin University, 1 Xinmin Street, Changchun, Jilin Province, 130021, PR China
| | - Beihan Sun
- School of Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, 110016, PR China
| | - Ting Yang
- School of Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, 110016, PR China
| | - Xuan Li
- School of Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, 110016, PR China
| | - Zhenwei Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, 110016, PR China
| | - Mengfan Bao
- School of Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, 110016, PR China
| | - Liping Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, 110016, PR China
| | - Hongyin Lou
- School of Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, 110016, PR China
| | - Yanyan Li
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First Hospital of Jilin University, 1 Xinmin Street, Changchun, Jilin Province, 130021, PR China.
| | - Guoxiang Sun
- School of Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, 110016, PR China.
| | - Jing Huang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First Hospital of Jilin University, 1 Xinmin Street, Changchun, Jilin Province, 130021, PR China.
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Shen J, Zhao Y, Cui W. Astragalus mongholicus Bunge extract improves ulcerative colitis by promoting PLCB2 to inhibit colonic epithelial cell pyroptosis. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 334:118554. [PMID: 38992398 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.118554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2024] [Revised: 07/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Astragalus mongholicus Bunge (AM) and its active ingredients are mainly used for anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antioxidant, immune regulation, cardiovascular and nervous system protection, anti-cancer, anti-tumor and so on. AIM OF THE STUDY To explore the Astragalus mongholicus Bunge extract pharmacological mechanisms and biology processes which improves ulcerative colitis (UC). MATERIALS AND METHODS Dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced UC models in C57BL/6 mice were established, and the mice were treated with Astragalus mongholicus Bunge extract or salazosulfapyridine (SASP). DSS-induced mice- and human-derived colonic epithelial cell lines were used to reveal the inflammatory environment of UC. After treatment with Astragalus mongholicus Bunge extract, the expression of phospholipase C-β 2 (PLCB2) in the cells was detected by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), and cell proliferative activity was detected by cell counting kit 8 (CCK-8) assay. Finally, the levels of pyroptosis-related inflammatory factors in cell culture supernatants was detected by ELISA. RESULTS Treatment of UC mice with Astragalus mongholicus Bunge extract do significantly improved DAI scores and histopathological damage scores, and decreased the levels of Eotaxin, GCSF, KC, MCP-1, TNF-α, and IL-6. Besides, Astragalus mongholicus Bunge extract inhibited the expression of nucleotide-binding oligomerization segment-like receptor family 3 (NLRP3), cleaved Caspase-1, and GSDMD-N in the colonic tissues, and reduced the levels of inflammation-related factors IL-1β and IL-18 in serum and tissues. In vitro, Astragalus mongholicus Bunge extract partially reversed the DSS-induced reduction of PLCB2 expression in CP-M030 and NCM460, promoted cell proliferative activity, and reduced the levels of IL-1β and IL-18. CONCLUSIONS In DDS-induced UC mice, Astragalus mongholicus Bunge extract improves ulcerative colitis by inhibiting colonic epithelial cell pyroptosis through PLCB2 promotion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Shen
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Ningbo Medical Center Lihuili Hospital (Affiliated Lihuili Hospital of Ningbo University), China.
| | - Yibin Zhao
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Ningbo Medical Center Lihuili Hospital (Affiliated Lihuili Hospital of Ningbo University), China.
| | - Wei Cui
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Ningbo Medical Center Lihuili Hospital (Affiliated Lihuili Hospital of Ningbo University), China.
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Liang Y, Li Y, Lee C, Yu Z, Chen C, Liang C. Ulcerative colitis: molecular insights and intervention therapy. MOLECULAR BIOMEDICINE 2024; 5:42. [PMID: 39384730 PMCID: PMC11464740 DOI: 10.1186/s43556-024-00207-w] [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: 07/08/2024] [Accepted: 09/13/2024] [Indexed: 10/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease characterized by abdominal pain, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, and weight loss. The pathogenesis and treatment of UC remain key areas of research interest. Various factors, including genetic predisposition, immune dysregulation, and alterations in the gut microbiota, are believed to contribute to the pathogenesis of UC. Current treatments for UC include 5-aminosalicylic acids, corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, and biologics. However, study reported that the one-year clinical remission rate is only around 40%. It is necessary to prompt the exploration of new treatment modalities. Biologic therapies, such as anti-TNF-α monoclonal antibody and JAK inhibitor, primarily consist of small molecules targeting specific pathways, effectively inducing and maintaining remission. Given the significant role of the gut microbiota, research into intestinal microecologics, such as probiotics and prebiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) shows promising potential in UC treatment. Additionally, medicinal herbs, such as chili pepper and turmeric, used in complementary therapy have shown promising results in UC management. This article reviews recent findings on the mechanisms of UC, including genetic susceptibility, immune cell dynamics and cytokine regulation, and gut microbiota alterations. It also discusses current applications of biologic therapy, herbal therapy, microecologics, and FMT, along with their prospects and challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuqing Liang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
- Department of Geriatrics, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610072, China
| | - Yang Li
- Department of Respiratory, Sichuan Integrative Medicine Hospital, Chengdu, 610042, China
| | - Chehao Lee
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Ziwei Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, College of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Chongli Chen
- Department of Geriatrics, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610072, China.
| | - Chao Liang
- Department of Geriatrics, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610072, China.
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Wu XY, Dong QW, Zhang YB, Li JX, Zhang MQ, Zhang DQ, Cui YL. Cimicifuga heracleifolia Kom. attenuates ulcerative colitis through the PI3K/AKT/NF-κB signaling pathway. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024:118892. [PMID: 39395768 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.118892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2024] [Revised: 09/13/2024] [Accepted: 10/01/2024] [Indexed: 10/14/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Cimicifuga heracleifolia Kom. (C. heracleifolia) has demonstrated efficacy in treating gastrointestinal disorders, including splenasthenic diarrhea. Ulcerative colitis (UC), a chronic inflammatory bowel disease, shares similarities with splenasthenic diarrhea. However, the pharmacological effects of C. heracleifolia on UC and the underlying mechanisms remain unexplored. AIM OF THE STUDY The present study investigates the therapeutic potential and mechanisms of C. heracleifolia in UC. METHODS Initially, network pharmacology analysis, encompassing ingredient screening, target prediction, protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis, and enrichment analysis, was employed to predict the mechanisms of C. heracleifolia. The findings were further validated using transcriptomics and functional assays in a dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced UC model. Additionally, bioactive compounds were identified through surface plasmon resonance (SPR) analysis, molecular docking, and cell-based assays. RESULTS A total of 52 ingredients of C. heracleifolia were screened, and 32 key targets were identified within a PPI network comprising 285 potential therapeutic targets. Enrichment analysis indicated that the anti-UC effects of C. heracleifolia are mediated through immune response modulation and the inhibition of inflammatory signaling pathways. In vivo experiments showed that C. heracleifolia mitigated histological damage in the colon, reduced the expression of phosphorylated Akt1, nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) p65, and inhibitor of Kappa B kinase α/β (IKKα/β), suppressed the content of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and enhanced the expression of tight junction proteins. Moreover, cimigenoside, caffeic acid, and methyl caffeate were identified as the bioactive constituents responsible for the UC treatment effects of C. heracleifolia. CONCLUSIONS In summary, this study is the first to demonstrate that C. heracleifolia exerts therapeutic effects on UC by enhancing the intestinal mucosal barrier and inhibiting the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT/NF-κB signaling pathway. These findings offer valuable insights into the clinical application of C. heracleifolia for UC management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue-Yi Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, P. R. China
| | - Qin-Wei Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, P. R. China
| | - Yong-Bo Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, P. R. China
| | - Jia-Xin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, P. R. China
| | - Mei-Qing Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, P. R. China
| | - De-Qin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, P. R. China
| | - Yuan-Lu Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, P. R. China.
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Ma S, Wang Q, Wang H, Yang Q, Li C, Yu Y, Xie Y, Shi X, Wang S. Investigation of the mechanism of Bark of Ailanthus altissima in the treatment of ulcerative colitis based on network pharmacology and experimental verification. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024:118916. [PMID: 39393560 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.118916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2024] [Revised: 10/04/2024] [Accepted: 10/05/2024] [Indexed: 10/13/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE The bark of Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle (BAA), a widely used Chinese medicinal herb in traditional remedies for bowel disorders, has yet to be explored in the context of ulcerative colitis (UC), and its therapeutic mechanisms remain unclear. AIM OF THE STUDY This study integrated network pharmacology and experimental validation to investigate the effects and underlying mechanisms of BAA in treating UC. MATERIALS AND METHODS First, UPLC-MS/MS analysis was employed to identify the chemical constituents of BAA. Network pharmacology was then applied to analyze the potential mechanisms of BAA based on these identified compounds. Lastly, a dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced UC mouse model was utilized to assess BAA's therapeutic efficacy, with Western blotting performed to examine changes in protein expression within the key pathway influenced by BAA. RESULTS UPLC-MS/MS and SwissADME analysis identified 223 active compounds in BAA. Network pharmacology suggested that the PI3K/AKT pathway may serve as a primary mechanism by which BAA exerts its anti-UC effects. In the DSS-induced UC mouse model, BAA significantly mitigated colonic injury, reduced DAI scores, and promoted weight recovery in mice. Additionally, BAA downregulated pro-inflammatory cytokines, including TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6, thereby suppressing inflammatory responses in the colon. Western blot analysis further demonstrated that BAA primarily inhibited the PI3K/AKT pathway in UC mouse colon tissue. CONCLUSION This study highlights that BAA effectively reduces colonic inflammation and preserves intestinal mucosal integrity, likely through the inhibition of PI3K/AKT pathway activity, positioning it as a potential treatment for UC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanbo Ma
- The College of Life Science, Northwest University, 710069, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Qianru Wang
- The College of Life Science, Northwest University, 710069, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Haiqin Wang
- The College of Life Science, Northwest University, 710069, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Qian Yang
- Department of Chinese Materia Medica and Natural Medicines, Air Force Medical University, 710032, Xi'an Shaanxi, China
| | - Chengwen Li
- The College of Life Science, Northwest University, 710069, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yuanyuan Yu
- The College of Life Science, Northwest University, 710069, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yanhua Xie
- The College of Life Science, Northwest University, 710069, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xiaopeng Shi
- Department of Pharmacy, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, 710032, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Siwang Wang
- The College of Life Science, Northwest University, 710069, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.
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Meng G, Li P, Du X, Feng X, Qiu F. Berberine alleviates ulcerative colitis by inhibiting inflammation through targeting IRGM1. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 133:155909. [PMID: 39068762 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2024.155909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2024] [Revised: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 07/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Berberine (BBR), the main active component of Coptis chinensis Franch., has a variety of pharmacological effects, notably anti-inflammatory, which make it a potential treatment for ulcerative colitis (UC). Nevertheless, the specific target and the mode of action of BBR against UC are still unclear. PURPOSE Here, we aim to identify BBR's anti-inflammatory target and its mode of action in UC treatment. METHODS The therapeutic effects of BBR and Coptis chinensis Franch. extract were first assessed in UC mice. Then, stable isotope labeling using amino acids in cell culture-activity-based protein profiling (SILAC-ABPP) was applied to identify the anti-inflammatory target proteins of BBR in an inflammation model of RAW264.7 cells stimulated by LPS. Molecular docking, drug affinity responsive target stability (DARTS), molecular dynamics simulation, cellular thermal shift assay (CETSA), and biological layer interference (BLI) measurement were employed to study the interaction between BBR and its targets. Lentiviral transfection was used to knock down the target protein and investigate BBR's anti-inflammatory mechanism. RESULTS BBR and Coptis chinensis Franch. extracts both significantly alleviated UC in mice. SILAC-ABPP identified IRGM1 as BBR's anti-inflammatory target, with its overexpression reduced by BBR treatment in both RAW264.7 cell inflammation models stimulated by LPS and UC mice. BBR significantly reduced inflammatory cytokines in LPS-induced RAW264.7 cells by blocking the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway. Knockdown of IRGM1 weakened BBR's effects on cytokine expression and pathway regulation. CONCLUSION For the first time, IRGM1 was identified as the direct anti-inflammatory target of BBR. BBR has the potential to inhibit IRGM1 expression in vitro as well as in vivo. The molecular mechanism of BBR's anti-inflammatory activity was inhibiting the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway by targeting IRGM1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guibing Meng
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Therapeutic Substance of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Pengyan Li
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Therapeutic Substance of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Xuemei Du
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Therapeutic Substance of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Xinchi Feng
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Therapeutic Substance of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.
| | - Feng Qiu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Therapeutic Substance of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.
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Vashishth S, Ambasta RK, Kumar P. Deciphering the microbial map and its implications in the therapeutics of neurodegenerative disorder. Ageing Res Rev 2024; 100:102466. [PMID: 39197710 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2024.102466] [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: 07/31/2024] [Revised: 08/19/2024] [Accepted: 08/19/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024]
Abstract
Every facet of biological anthropology, including development, ageing, diseases, and even health maintenance, is influenced by gut microbiota's significant genetic and metabolic capabilities. With current advancements in sequencing technology and with new culture-independent approaches, researchers can surpass older correlative studies and develop mechanism-based studies on microbiome-host interactions. The microbiota-gut-brain axis (MGBA) regulates glial functioning, making it a possible target for the improvement of development and advancement of treatments for neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs). The gut-brain axis (GBA) is accountable for the reciprocal communication between the gastrointestinal and central nervous system, which plays an essential role in the regulation of physiological processes like controlling hunger, metabolism, and various gastrointestinal functions. Lately, studies have discovered the function of the gut microbiome for brain health-different microbiota through different pathways such as immunological, neurological and metabolic pathways. Additionally, we review the involvement of the neurotransmitters and the gut hormones related to gut microbiota. We also explore the MGBA in neurodegenerative disorders by focusing on metabolites. Further, targeting the blood-brain barrier (BBB), intestinal barrier, meninges, and peripheral immune system is investigated. Lastly, we discuss the therapeutics approach and evaluate the pre-clinical and clinical trial data regarding using prebiotics, probiotics, paraprobiotics, fecal microbiota transplantation, personalised medicine, and natural food bioactive in NDDs. A comprehensive study of the GBA will felicitate the creation of efficient therapeutic approaches for treating different NDDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shrutikirti Vashishth
- Molecular Neuroscience and Functional Genomics Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Delhi Technological University (Formerly DCE), Delhi 110042, India
| | - Rashmi K Ambasta
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, VUMC, Vanderbilt University, TN, USA
| | - Pravir Kumar
- Molecular Neuroscience and Functional Genomics Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Delhi Technological University (Formerly DCE), Delhi 110042, India.
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Huang Y, Wu Q, Li S, Lin X, Yang S, Zhu R, Fu C, Zhang Z. Harnessing nature's pharmacy: investigating natural compounds as novel therapeutics for ulcerative colitis. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1394124. [PMID: 39206263 PMCID: PMC11349575 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1394124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Backgrounds Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a form of chronic inflammatory bowel disease, and UC diagnosis rates continue to rise throughout the globe. The research and development of new drugs for the treatment of UC are urgent, and natural compounds are an important source. However, there is a lack of systematic summarization of natural compounds and their mechanisms for the treatment of UC. Methods We reviewed the literature in the databases below from their inception until July 2023: Web of Science, PubMed, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and Wanfang Data, to obtain information on the relationship between natural compounds and UC. Results The results showed that 279 natural compounds treat UC through four main mechanisms, including regulating gut microbiota and metabolites (Mechanism I), protecting the intestinal mucosal barrier (Mechanism II), regulating intestinal mucosal immune response (Mechanism III), as well as regulating other mechanisms (Mechanism Ⅳ) such as cellular autophagy modulation and ferroptosis inhibition. Of these, Mechanism III is regulated by all natural compounds. The 279 natural compounds, including 62 terpenoids, 57 alkaloids, 52 flavonoids, 26 phenols, 19 phenylpropanoids, 9 steroids, 9 saponins, 8 quinonoids, 6 vitamins, and 31 others, can effectively ameliorate UC. Of these, terpenoids, alkaloids, and flavonoids have the greatest potential for treating UC. It is noteworthy to highlight that a total of 54 natural compounds exhibit their therapeutic effects by modulating Mechanisms I, II, and III. Conclusion This review serves as a comprehensive resource for the pharmaceutical industry, researchers, and clinicians seeking novel therapeutic approaches to combat UC. Harnessing the therapeutic potential of these natural compounds may significantly contribute to the improvement of the quality of life of patients with UC and promotion of disease-modifying therapies in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- You Huang
- School of Pharmacy/School of Modern Chinese Medicine Industry, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Qiuhong Wu
- School of Pharmacy/School of Modern Chinese Medicine Industry, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Sha Li
- School of Pharmacy/School of Modern Chinese Medicine Industry, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Xia Lin
- School of Pharmacy/School of Modern Chinese Medicine Industry, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Shasha Yang
- School of Pharmacy/School of Modern Chinese Medicine Industry, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Rui Zhu
- School of Pharmacy/School of Modern Chinese Medicine Industry, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Chaomei Fu
- School of Pharmacy/School of Modern Chinese Medicine Industry, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhen Zhang
- School of Pharmacy/School of Modern Chinese Medicine Industry, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
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Zhao ZH, Dong YH, Jiang XQ, Wang J, Qin WL, Liu ZY, Zhang XQ, Wei YJ. Five commonly used traditional Chinese medicine formulas in the treatment of ulcerative colitis: A network meta-analysis. World J Clin Cases 2024; 12:5067-5082. [DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v12.i22.5067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/30/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Currently, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formulas are commonly being used as adjunctive therapy for ulcerative colitis in China. Network meta-analysis, a quantitative and comprehensive analytical method, can systematically compare the effects of different adjunctive treatment options for ulcerative colitis, providing scientific evidence for clinical decision-making.
AIM To evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of commonly used TCM for the treatment of ulcerative colitis (UC) in clinical practice through a network meta-analysis.
METHODS Clinical randomized controlled trials of these TCM formulas used for the adjuvant treatment of UC were searched from the establishment of the databases to July 1, 2022. Studies that met the inclusion criteria were screened and evaluated for literature quality and risk of bias according to the Cochrane 5.1 standard. The methodological quality of the studies was assessed using ReviewManager (RevMan) 5.4, and a funnel plot was constructed to test for publication bias. ADDIS 1.16 statistical software was used to perform statistical analysis of the treatment measures and derive the network relationship and ranking diagrams of the various intervention measures.
RESULTS A total of 64 randomized controlled trials involving 5456 patients with UC were included in this study. The adjuvant treatment of UC using five TCM formulations was able to improve the clinical outcome of the patients. Adjuvant treatment with Baitouweng decoction (BTWT) showed a significant effect [mean difference = 36.22, 95% confidence interval (CI): 7.63 to 65.76]. For the reduction of tumor necrosis factor in patients with UC, adjunctive therapy with BTWT (mean difference = −9.55, 95%CI: −17.89 to −1.41), Shenlingbaizhu powder [SLBZS; odds ratio (OR) = 0.19, 95%CI: 0.08 to 0.39], and Shaoyao decoction (OR = −23.02, 95%CI: −33.64 to −13.14) was effective. Shaoyao decoction was more effective than BTWT (OR = 0.12, 95%CI: 0.03 to 0.39), SLBZS (OR = 0.19, 95%CI: 0.08 to 0. 39), and Xi Lei powder (OR = 0.34, 95%CI: 0.13 to 0.81) in reducing tumor necrosis factor and the recurrence rate of UC.
CONCLUSION TCM combined with mesalazine is more effective than mesalazine alone in the treatment of UC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Hui Zhao
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 102488, China
| | - Yi-Hang Dong
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 102488, China
| | - Xin-Qi Jiang
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 102488, China
| | - Jing Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 102488, China
| | - Wan-Li Qin
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 102488, China
| | - Zhang-Yi Liu
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 102488, China
| | - Xiao-Qing Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 102488, China
| | - Yu-Jie Wei
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 102488, China
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Mao J, Tan L, Tian C, Wang W, Zou Y, Zhu Z, Li Y. Systematically investigate the mechanism underlying the therapeutic effect of Astragalus membranaceus in ulcerative colitis. Am J Med Sci 2024:S0002-9629(24)01355-7. [PMID: 39009282 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjms.2024.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2023] [Revised: 07/09/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Whether Astragalus membranaceus is an effective drug in treatment of ulcerative colitis (UC) and how it exhibit activity effect on UC is unclear. METHODS TCMSP, GeneCards, String, and DAVID database were used to screening target genes construct PPI network and performed for GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis respectively. Molecular docking and animal experiment were performed. The body weight and disease activity index (DAI) of mice were recorded. ELISA kits were used to detect the levels of CAT, SOD, MDA and IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α in the blood of mice. Western blot kits were utilized to measured the expressions of MAPK14, RB1, MAPK1, JUN, ATK1, and IL2 proteins. RESULTS The active components of Astragalus membranaceus mainly including 7-O-methylisomucronulatol, quercetin, kaempferol, formononetin and isrhamnetin. Astragalus membranaceus may inhibited the expression of TNF-α, IL-6, MDA, and promoted the expression of CAT, SOD, IL-10. The expression levels of MAPK14, RB1, MAPK1, JUN and ATK1 proteins were significantly decreased while IL2 protein increased administrated with Astragalus membranaceus. CONCLUSIONS Astragalus membranaceus is an effective drug in treatment of UC according to related to above targets that may exhibits the anti-UC effect via its antioxidant pathway and regulating the balance of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingxin Mao
- Department of Science and Technology Industry, Chongqing Medical and Pharmaceutical College, Chongqing 400030, China; College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Lihong Tan
- Department of Science and Technology Industry, Chongqing Medical and Pharmaceutical College, Chongqing 400030, China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of High Active Traditional Chinese Drug Delivery System, Chongqing Medical and Pharmaceutical College, Chongqing 400030, China
| | - Cheng Tian
- Department of Science and Technology Industry, Chongqing Medical and Pharmaceutical College, Chongqing 400030, China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of High Active Traditional Chinese Drug Delivery System, Chongqing Medical and Pharmaceutical College, Chongqing 400030, China
| | - Wenxiang Wang
- College of pharmacy, Chongqing Three Gorges Medical College, Chongqing 404120, China
| | - YanLin Zou
- College of pharmacy, Chongqing Three Gorges Medical College, Chongqing 404120, China
| | - Zhaojing Zhu
- Department of Science and Technology Industry, Chongqing Medical and Pharmaceutical College, Chongqing 400030, China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of High Active Traditional Chinese Drug Delivery System, Chongqing Medical and Pharmaceutical College, Chongqing 400030, China
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Science and Technology Industry, Chongqing Medical and Pharmaceutical College, Chongqing 400030, China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of High Active Traditional Chinese Drug Delivery System, Chongqing Medical and Pharmaceutical College, Chongqing 400030, China.
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Li J, Dan W, Zhang C, Liu N, Wang Y, Liu J, Zhang S. Exploration of Berberine Against Ulcerative Colitis via TLR4/NF-κB/HIF-1α Pathway by Bioinformatics and Experimental Validation. Drug Des Devel Ther 2024; 18:2847-2868. [PMID: 39006190 PMCID: PMC11246092 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s436359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study aimed to delineate the molecular processes underlying the therapeutic effects of berberine on UC by employing network pharmacology tactics, molecular docking, and dynamic simulations supported by empirical validations both in vivo and in vitro. Patients and Methods We systematically screened potential targets and relevant pathways affected by berberine for UC treatment from comprehensive databases, including GeneCards, DisGeNET, and GEO. Molecular docking and simulation protocols were used to assess the interaction stability between berberine and its principal targets. The predictions were validated using both a DSS-induced UC mouse model and a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated NCM460 cellular inflammation model. Results Network pharmacology analysis revealed the regulatory effect of the TLR4/NF-κB/HIF-1α pathway in the ameliorative action of berberine in UC. Docking and simulation studies predicted the high-affinity interactions of berberine with pivotal targets: TLR4, NF-κB, HIF-1α, and the HIF inhibitor KC7F2. Moreover, in vivo analyses demonstrated that berberine attenuates clinical severity, as reflected by decreased disease activity index (DAI) scores, reduced weight loss, and mitigated intestinal inflammation in DSS-challenged mice. These outcomes include suppression of the proinflammatory cytokines IL-6 and TNF-α and downregulation of TLR4/NF-κB/HIF-1α mRNA and protein levels. Correspondingly, in vitro findings indicate that berberine decreases cellular inflammatory injury and suppresses TLR4/NF-κB/HIF-1α signaling, with notable effectiveness similar to that of the HIF-1α inhibitor KC7F2. Conclusion Through network pharmacology analysis and experimental substantiation, this study confirmed that berberine enhances UC treatment outcomes by inhibiting the TLR4/NF-κB/HIF-1α axis, thereby mitigating inflammatory reactions and improving colonic pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jilei Li
- Digestive Disease Center, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100010, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wenchao Dan
- Department of Dermatology, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100010, People’s Republic of China
| | - Chenchen Zhang
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, People’s Republic of China
| | - Nian Liu
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yichong Wang
- Digestive Disease Center, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100010, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jixiang Liu
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shengsheng Zhang
- Digestive Disease Center, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100010, People’s Republic of China
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Bouhend A, Keddari S, Yahla I, Sadouki O, Bououdina M. Therapeutic Benefits of Tuna Oil by In Vitro and In Vivo Studies Using a Rat Model of Acetic Acid-Induced Ulcerative Colitis. Appl Biochem Biotechnol 2024; 196:3817-3843. [PMID: 37787891 DOI: 10.1007/s12010-023-04736-y] [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] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
Ulcerative colitis (UC), an inflammation of the colon lining, represents the main form of inflammatory bowel disease IBD. Nutritional therapy is extremely important in the management of ulcerative colitis. Fish oil contains long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, which have beneficial effects on health, including anti-inflammatory effects. This study aims to investigate the benefits of bluefin tuna oil extracted by the Soxhlet method in vitro by determining the anti-radical and anti-inflammatory activities and in vivo by evaluating the preventive and curative effects. The experiments were carried out using two doses of oil (100 and 260 mg/kg) and glutamine (400 and 1000 mg/kg) on the acetic acid-induced UC model. UC has been induced in Wistar rats by intrarectal administration of a single dose of 1 mL acetic acid (5% v/v in distilled water). The obtained results indicate that tuna oil and glutamine have a significant anti-free radical effect. Tuna oil has a marked anti-inflammatory power based on membrane stabilization and inhibiting protein denaturation. The reduction of various UC parameters, such as weight loss, disease activity score DAS, and colonic ulceration in rats pre-treated with tuna oil and glutamine, demonstrate that these treatments have a significant effect on UC. Total glutathione GSH, superoxide dismutase SOD, and catalase activities are significantly restored in the tuna oil and glutamine groups, while lipid peroxidation has been markedly reduced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abla Bouhend
- Laboratory of Bioeconomics, Food safety and Health, Faculty of Natural Sciences and Life, Abdelhamid Ibn Badis University of Mostaganem, 188, 27000, Mostaganem, BP, Algeria
| | - Soumia Keddari
- Laboratory of Bioeconomics, Food safety and Health, Faculty of Natural Sciences and Life, Abdelhamid Ibn Badis University of Mostaganem, 188, 27000, Mostaganem, BP, Algeria.
| | - Imen Yahla
- Laboratory of Beneficial Microorganisms, Functional Food and Health (LMBAFS), Faculty of Natural and Life Sciences, Abdelhamid Ibn Badis University, Mostaganem, Algeria
| | - Omar Sadouki
- Laboratory of Anapathology Histology, University Hospital Centre, Mostaganem, Algeria
| | - Mohamed Bououdina
- Department of Mathematics and Sciences, College of Humanities and Sciences, Prince Sultan University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
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Yu W, Li B, Chen L, Chen Q, Song Q, Jin X, Yin Y, Tong H, Xue L. Gigantol ameliorates DSS-induced colitis via suppressing β2 integrin mediated adhesion and chemotaxis of macrophage. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 328:118123. [PMID: 38554854 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.118123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2024] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Dendrobium, recognized as "Shihu" in traditional Chinese medicine, holds a rich history of medicinal utilization documented in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia. Ancient texts like "Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing" extol Dendrobium's virtues as a superior herbal medicine fortifying "Yin" and invigorating the five viscera. Dendrobium is extensively employed for the treatment of gastrointestinal inflammatory disorders, showcasing significant therapeutic efficacy, particularly against ulcerative colitis (UC), within the realm of Chinese ethnopharmacology. Dendrobium plays crucial pharmacological roles due to its rich content of polysaccharides, alkaloids, phenanthrenes, and bibenzyls. Gigantol, a prominent bibenzyl compound, stands out as one of the most vital active constituents within Dendrobium, the gigantol content of Dendrobium leaves can reach approximately 4.79 μg/g. Its significance lies in being recognized as a noteworthy anti-inflammatory compound derived from Dendrobium. AIM OF THE STUDY Given the pivotal role of gigantol as a primary active substance in Dendrobium, the therapeutic potential of gigantol for gastrointestinal diseases remains enigmatic. Our present investigation aimed to evaluate the therapeutic effects of gigantol on dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis and reveal its potential mechanism in countering UC activity. MATERIALS AND METHODS The protective efficacy of gigantol against colitis was assessed by examining the histopathological changes and conducting biochemical analyses of colon from DSS-challenged mice. Assessments focused on gigantol's impact on improving the intestinal epithelial barrier and its anti-inflammatory effects in colonic tissues of colitis mice. Investigative techniques included the exploration of the macrophage inflammatory signaling pathway via qPCR and Western blot analyses. In vitro studies scrutinized macrophage adhesion, migration, and chemotaxis utilizing transwell and Zigmond chambers. Furthermore, F-actin and Rac1 activation assays detailed cellular cytoskeletal remodeling. The potential therapeutic target of gigantol was identified and validated through protein binding analysis, competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), cellular thermal shift assay (CETSA), and drug affinity responsive target stability (DARTS) assay. The binding sites between gigantol and its target were predicted via molecular docking. RESULTS Gigantol ameliorated symptoms of DSS-induced colitis, rectified damage to the intestinal barrier, and suppressed the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines in colonic tissues. Intriguingly, gigantol significantly curtailed NF-κB signaling activation in the colons of DSS-induced colitis mice. Notably, gigantol impaired the β2 integrin-dependent adhesion and migratory capacity of RAW264.7 cells. Moreover, gigantol notably influenced the cytoskeleton remodeling of RAW264.7 cells by suppressing Vav1 phosphorylation and Rac1 activation. Mechanistically, gigantol interacted with β2 integrin, subsequently diminishing binding affinity with intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1). CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, these findings elucidate that gigantol ameliorates DSS-induced colitis by antagonizing β2 integrin-mediated macrophage adhesion, migration, and chemotaxis, thus it may impede macrophage recruitment and infiltration into colonic tissues. This study suggests that gigantol shows promise as a viable candidate for clinical colitis therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weilai Yu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325200, PR China
| | - Boyang Li
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Water Environment and Marine Biological Resources Protection, College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, 325000, PR China
| | - Luxi Chen
- Pediatric Emergency Observation Department, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325200, PR China
| | - Qiu Chen
- Department of Endocrinology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325200, PR China
| | - QingQing Song
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325200, PR China
| | - Xiaosheng Jin
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325200, PR China
| | - Yandan Yin
- Department of Pediatric Medicine, Taizhou Women and Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Taizhou, 325200, PR China
| | - Haibin Tong
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Water Environment and Marine Biological Resources Protection, College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, 325000, PR China; State Key Laboratory for Quality Ensurance and Sustainable Use of Dao-di Herbs, Beijing, 100700, PR China.
| | - Liwei Xue
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325200, PR China.
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Hu Y, Tang J, Xie Y, Xu W, Zhu W, Xia L, Fang J, Yu D, Liu J, Zheng Z, Zhou Q, Shou Q, Zhang W. Gegen Qinlian decoction ameliorates TNBS-induced ulcerative colitis by regulating Th2/Th1 and Tregs/Th17 cells balance, inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome activation and reshaping gut microbiota. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 328:117956. [PMID: 38428658 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.117956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Chinese herbal medicine Gegen Qinlian Decoction (GQD) has been clinically shown to be an effective treatment of ulcerative colitis (UC) in China. However, the underlying mechanism of GQD's anti-ulcerative colitis properties and its effect on gut microbiota still deserve further exploration. AIM OF THE STUDY This study observed the regulatory effects of GQD on Th2/Th1 and Tregs/Th17 cells balance, the NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) infammasome and gut microbiota in TNBS-induced UC in BALB/c mice. MATERIALS AND METHODS 61 main chemical compounds in the GQD were determined by UPLC-Q-TOF/MS. The UC BALB/c model was established by intrarectal administration of trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS), and GQD was orally administered at low and high dosages of 2.96 and 11.83 g/kg/day, respectively. The anti-inflammatory effects of GQD for ulcerative colitis were evaluated by survival rate, body weight, disease activity index (DAI) score, colonic weight and index, spleen index, hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining and histopathological scores. Flow cytometry was used to detect the percentage of CD4, Th1, Th2, Th17 and Tregs cells. The levels of Th1-/Th2-/Th17-/Tregs-related inflammatory cytokines and additional proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-18) were detected by CBA, ELISA, and RT-PCR. The expressions of GATA3, T-bet, NLRP3, Caspase-1, IL-Iβ, Occludin and Zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) on colon tissues were detected by Western blot and RT-PCR. Transcriptome sequencing was performed using colon tissue and 16S rRNA gene sequencing was performed on intestinal contents. Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) was employed to assess the contribution of intestinal microbiota and its correlation with CD4 T cells and the NLRP3 inflammasome. RESULTS GQD increased the survival rate of TNBS-induced UC in BALB/c mice, and significantly improved their body weight, DAI score, colonic weight and index, spleen index, and histological characteristics. The intestinal barrier dysfunction was repaired after GQD administration through promoting the expression of tight junction proteins (Occludin and ZO-1). GQD restored the balance of Th2/Th1 and Tregs/Th17 cells immune response of colitis mice, primarily inhibiting the increase in Th2/Th1 ratio and their transcription factor production (GATA3 and T-bet). Morever, GQD changed the secretion of Th1-/Th2-/Th17-/Tregs-related cytokines (IL-2, IL-12, IL-5, IL-13, IL-6, IL-10, and IL-17A) and reduced the expressions of IL-1β, IL-18. Transcriptome results suggested that GQD could also remodel the immune inflammatory response of colitis by inhibiting NOD-like receptor signaling pathway, and Western blot, immunohistochemistry and RT-PCR further revealed that GQD exerted anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the NLRP3 inflammasome, such as down-regulating the expression of NLRP3, Caspase-1 and IL-1β. More interestingly, GQD regulated gut microbiota dysbiosis, suppressed the overgrowth of conditional pathogenic gut bacteria like Helicobacter, Proteobacteria, and Mucispirillum, while the probiotic gut microbiota, such as Lactobacillus, Muribaculaceae, Ruminiclostridium_6, Akkermansia, and Ruminococcaceae_unclassified were increased. We further confirmed that GQD-treated gut microbiota was sufficient to relieve TNBS-induced colitis by FMT, involving the modulation of Th2/Th1 and Tregs/Th17 balance, inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome activation, and enhancement of colonic barrier function. CONCLUSIONS GQD might alleviate TNBS-induced UC via regulating Th2/Th1 and Tregs/Th17 cells Balance, inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome and reshaping gut microbiota, which may provide a novel strategy for patients with colitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingnan Hu
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Jingyi Tang
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Yongfeng Xie
- Department of Burn Plastic Surgery, Huai'an Hospital Affiliated to Xuzhou Medical University, Jiangsu, 223001, China
| | - Wenjun Xu
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Weihan Zhu
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Linying Xia
- Department of Orthopaedics, Zhoushan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Zhoushan, 316000, China
| | - Jintao Fang
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Dian Yu
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Jingjing Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Haining City Central Hospital, Jiaxing, 314408, China
| | - Zhipeng Zheng
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310005, China
| | - Qiujing Zhou
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310005, China
| | - Qiyang Shou
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310005, China.
| | - Wei Zhang
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China; The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310005, China.
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Ma L, Li M, Lv J, Yuan Q, Yin X, Lu W, Lin W, Wang P, Cui J, Lv Q, Liu J, Hu L. Design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of novel sesquiterpene lactone derivatives as PKM2 activators with potent anti-ulcerative colitis activities. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 272:116426. [PMID: 38718622 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116426] [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: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/27/2024]
Abstract
Pyruvate kinase isoform 2 (PKM2) is closely related to the regulation of Th17/Treg balance, which is considered to be an effective strategy for UC therapy. Parthenolide (PTL), a natural product, only possesses moderate PKM2-activating activity. Thus, five series of PTL derivatives are designed and synthesized to improve PKM2-activated activities and anti-UC abilities. Through detailed structure optimization, B4 demonstrates potent T-cell anti-proliferation activity (IC50 = 0.43 μM) and excellent PKM2-activated ability (AC50 = 0.144 μM). Subsequently, through mass spectrometry analysis, B4 is identified to interact with Cys423 of PKM2 via covalent-bond. Molecular docking and molecular dynamic simulation results reveal that the trifluoromethoxy of B4 forms a stronger hydrophobic interaction with Ala401, Pro402, and Ile403. In addition, B4 has a significant effect only on Th17 cell differentiation, thereby regulating the Th17/Treg balance. The effect of B4 on Th17/Treg imbalance can be attributed to inhibition of PKM2 dimer translocation and suppression of glucose metabolism. Finally, B4 can notably ameliorate the symptoms of dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis in mouse model in vivo. Thus, B4 is confirmed as a potent PKM2 activator, and has the potential to develop as a novel anti-UC agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingyu Ma
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Functional Substance of Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Mengting Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Functional Substance of Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Jiahao Lv
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Functional Substance of Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Qingxin Yuan
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Functional Substance of Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Xunkai Yin
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Functional Substance of Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Wenyu Lu
- School of Artificial Intelligence and Information Technology, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Weijiang Lin
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Functional Substance of Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Ping Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Functional Substance of Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Jian Cui
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Functional Substance of Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Qi Lv
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Functional Substance of Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China.
| | - Jian Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Functional Substance of Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China; School of Artificial Intelligence and Information Technology, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China.
| | - Lihong Hu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Functional Substance of Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China.
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Wang Y, Hao Y, Yuan L, Tian H, Sun X, Zhang Y. Ferroptosis: a new mechanism of traditional Chinese medicine for treating ulcerative colitis. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1379058. [PMID: 38895617 PMCID: PMC11184165 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1379058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Ulcerative colitis (UC), a subtype of inflammatory bowel disease, manifests with symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and mucopurulent, bloody stools. The pathogenesis of UC is not fully understood. At present, the incidence of UC has increased significantly around the world. Conventional therapeutic arsenals are relatively limited, with often poor efficacy and many adverse effects. In contrast, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) holds promise due to their notable effectiveness, reduced recurrence rates, and minimal side effects. In recent years, significant progress has been made in the basic research on TCM for UC treatment. It has been found that the inhibition of ferroptosis through the intervention of TCM can significantly promote intestinal mucosal healing and reverse UC. The mechanism of action involves multiple targets and pathways. Aim of the review This review summarizes the experimental studies on the targeted regulation of ferroptosis by TCM and its impact on UC in recent years, aiming to provide theoretical basis for the prevention, treatment, and further drug development for UC. Results Ferroptosis disrupts antioxidant mechanisms in intestinal epithelial cells, damages the intestinal mucosa, and participates in the pathological process of UC. TCM acts on various pathways such as Nrf2/HO-1 and GSH/GPX4, blocking the pathological progression of ferroptosis in intestinal epithelial cells, inhibiting pathological damage to the intestinal mucosa, and thereby alleviating UC. Conclusion The diverse array of TCM single herbs, extracts and herbal formulas facilitates selective and innovative research and development of new TCM methods for targeting UC treatment. Although progress has been made in studying TCM compound formulas, single herbs, and extracts, there are still many issues in clinical and basic experimental designs, necessitating further in-depth scientific exploration and research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingyi Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Yanwei Hao
- Department of Geriatrics, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Lingling Yuan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Huaie Tian
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Xuhui Sun
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
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Lv J, Fu Y, Ga Y, Han C, Fan Y, Wei Y, Hao S, Hao Z. Lianweng Granules Alleviate Intestinal Barrier Damage via the IL-6/STAT3/PI3K/AKT Signaling Pathway with Dampness-Heat Syndrome Diarrhea. Antioxidants (Basel) 2024; 13:661. [PMID: 38929100 PMCID: PMC11201218 DOI: 10.3390/antiox13060661] [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: 05/10/2024] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Dampness-heat syndrome diarrhea (DHSD) is a common clinical disease with a high prevalence but still has no satisfactory therapeutic medicine, so the search for a safe and effective drug candidate is ongoing. This study aims to explore the efficacy and mechanisms of Lianweng granules (LWG) in the treatment of DHSD and to identify the blood transport components of LWG. We assessed the efficacy of LWG in DHSD by various in vivo metrics such as body weight, disease activity index (DAI), histopathologic examination, intestinal barrier function, levels of inflammatory, apoptotic biomarkers, and oxidative stress. We identified the blood components of LWG using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS), and the resolved key components were used to explore the relevant targets. We next predicted the potential mechanisms of LWG in treating DHSD using network pharmacology and molecular docking based on the relevant targets. Finally, the mechanisms were validated in vivo using RT-qPCR, Western blotting, ELISA, and immunofluorescence and evaluated in vitro using Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8), small interfering RNA, cellular enthusiasm transfer assay (CETSA), and drug affinity response target stability (DARTS). Ninety-one pharmacodynamic components of LWG enter the bloodstream and exert possible therapeutic effects. In vivo, LWG treatment improved body weight, reduced colonic injury and DAI scores, lowered inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis markers, and partially restored intestinal barrier function in DHSD mice. Guided by network pharmacology and molecular docking, it is suggested that LWG may exert therapeutic effects by inhibiting IL-6/STAT3/PI3K/AKT signaling. LWG significantly decreased the expression of IL-6, p-STAT3, p-PI3K, p-AKT, and other proteins. These findings were supported by in vitro experiments, where CETSA, DARTS, and siRNA evidenced LWG's targeting of STAT3. LWG targeted STAT3 to inhibit inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis in the colon, thereby restoring the intestinal barrier function to some extent and exerting a therapeutic effect on DHSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianyu Lv
- Innovation Centre of Chinese Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China; (J.L.); (Y.F.); (Y.G.); (C.H.); (Y.F.); (Y.W.)
- Key Biology Laboratory of Chinese Veterinary Medicine, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Beijing 100193, China
- National Center of Technology Innovation for Medicinal Function of Food, National Food and Strategic Reserves Administration, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Yuchen Fu
- Innovation Centre of Chinese Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China; (J.L.); (Y.F.); (Y.G.); (C.H.); (Y.F.); (Y.W.)
- Key Biology Laboratory of Chinese Veterinary Medicine, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Beijing 100193, China
- National Center of Technology Innovation for Medicinal Function of Food, National Food and Strategic Reserves Administration, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Yu Ga
- Innovation Centre of Chinese Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China; (J.L.); (Y.F.); (Y.G.); (C.H.); (Y.F.); (Y.W.)
- Key Biology Laboratory of Chinese Veterinary Medicine, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Beijing 100193, China
- National Center of Technology Innovation for Medicinal Function of Food, National Food and Strategic Reserves Administration, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Chao Han
- Innovation Centre of Chinese Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China; (J.L.); (Y.F.); (Y.G.); (C.H.); (Y.F.); (Y.W.)
- Key Biology Laboratory of Chinese Veterinary Medicine, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Beijing 100193, China
- National Center of Technology Innovation for Medicinal Function of Food, National Food and Strategic Reserves Administration, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Yimeng Fan
- Innovation Centre of Chinese Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China; (J.L.); (Y.F.); (Y.G.); (C.H.); (Y.F.); (Y.W.)
- Key Biology Laboratory of Chinese Veterinary Medicine, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Beijing 100193, China
- National Center of Technology Innovation for Medicinal Function of Food, National Food and Strategic Reserves Administration, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Yuanyuan Wei
- Innovation Centre of Chinese Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China; (J.L.); (Y.F.); (Y.G.); (C.H.); (Y.F.); (Y.W.)
- Key Biology Laboratory of Chinese Veterinary Medicine, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Beijing 100193, China
- National Center of Technology Innovation for Medicinal Function of Food, National Food and Strategic Reserves Administration, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Sijia Hao
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot 010059, China;
| | - Zhihui Hao
- Innovation Centre of Chinese Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China; (J.L.); (Y.F.); (Y.G.); (C.H.); (Y.F.); (Y.W.)
- Key Biology Laboratory of Chinese Veterinary Medicine, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Beijing 100193, China
- National Center of Technology Innovation for Medicinal Function of Food, National Food and Strategic Reserves Administration, Beijing 100193, China
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Luo Y, Fu S, Liu Y, Kong S, Liao Q, Lin L, Li H. Banxia Xiexin decoction modulates gut microbiota and gut microbiota metabolism to alleviate DSS-induced ulcerative colitis. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 326:117990. [PMID: 38423412 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.117990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 02/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Banxia Xiexin decoction (BXD) is a classic traditional Chinese medicine prescription for treating ulcerative colitis (UC). However, its potential mechanism of action is still unclear. AIM OF THE STUDY Reveal the correlation between the beneficial impacts of BXD on UC and the composition of the gut microbiota. MATERIALS AND METHODS The major constituents of BXD were identified using the HPLC-DAD technique. An experimental model of UC was induced in male C57BL/6 mice by administering dextran sodium sulfate (DSS). A total of 48 mice were divided into different groups, including control, model, high-dose BXD treatment, medium-dose BXD treatment, low-dose BXD treatment, and a group treated with 5-amino acid salicylic acid (5-ASA). Body weight changes and disease activity index (DAI) scores were documented; colon length, colon index, spleen index, and thymus index scores were determined; myeloperoxidase (MPO) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) activities were assessed; and histological staining with hematoxylin-eosin and alcian blue/phosphate Schiff was performed. The immunofluorescence technique was employed to examine the presence of ZO-1 and occludin in the colon tissue. 16S rRNA sequencing was employed to assess the gut microbiota's diversity and metabolomics was utilized to examine alterations in metabolites within the gut microbiota. The impact of BXD on the gut microbiota was confirmed through fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT). RESULTS BXD exhibited a positive impact on UC mice, particularly in the high-dose BXD treatment group. The BXD group experienced weight recovery, decreased DAI scores, improved colon length, and restored of spleen and thymus index scores compared to the DSS group. Additionally, BXD alleviated colon damage and the inflammatory response while restoring intestinal barrier function. FMT in BXD-treated mice also showed therapeutic effects in UC mice. At the phylum level, the relative abundance of Desulfobacterota, Deferribacterota and Actinobacteriota increased; at the genus level, g__norank__f__Muribaculaceae, Dubosiella, Akkermansia, and Lactobacillus increased, whereas Faecalibaculum, Alloprevotella, Turicibacter, and g_Paraprevotella decreased. g__norank_f__Muribaculaceae was positively correlated with body weight and colon length and negatively with colon index scores, splenic index scores, and MPO levels; Alloprevotella was positively correlated with splenic index scores, histological scores, and TNF-α levels and negatively with thymus index scores and thymus index scores. Faecalibaculum was positively correlated with colon index scores and MPO levels. Metabolic investigations revealed 58 potential indicators, primarily associated with the metabolism of amino acids, purines, and lipids. Alloprevotella, g_Paraprevotella, and Bifidobacterium were strongly associated with metabolic pathways. CONCLUSION BXD showed beneficial therapeutic effects in UC mice. The mechanism may be by promoting the balance and variety of gut microbiota, as well as regulating the metabolism of amino acids, purines, and lipids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuting Luo
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China.
| | - Sai Fu
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China.
| | - Yuling Liu
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China.
| | - Shasha Kong
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China.
| | - Qian Liao
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China.
| | - Longfei Lin
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China.
| | - Hui Li
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China; Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine Health Industry, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Nanchang, 330000, China; Jiangxi Health Industry Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, 330000, China.
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21
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Tan YR, Shen SY, Li XY, Yi PF, Fu BD, Peng LY. Mogroside V reduced the excessive endoplasmic reticulum stress and mitigated the Ulcerative colitis induced by dextran sulfate sodium in mice. J Transl Med 2024; 22:488. [PMID: 38773576 PMCID: PMC11110204 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-05285-6] [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: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an idiopathic, chronic inflammatory condition of the colon, characterized by repeated attacks, a lack of effective treatment options, and significant physical and mental health complications for patients. The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is a vital intracellular organelle in maintaining cellular homeostasis. Endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) is induced when the body is exposed to adverse external stimuli. Numerous studies have shown that ERS-induced apoptosis plays a vital role in the pathogenesis of UC. Mogroside V (MV), an active ingredient of Monk fruit, has demonstrated excellent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. In this study, we investigated the therapeutic effects of MV on dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced UC and its potential mechanisms based on ERS. The results showed that MV exerted a protective effect against DSS-induced UC in mice as reflected by reduced DAI scores, increased colon length, reduced histological scores of the colon, and levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, as well as decreased intestinal permeability. In addition, the expression of ERS pathway including BIP, PERK, eIF2α, ATF4, CHOP, as well as the apoptosis-related protein including Caspase-12, Bcl-2 and Bax, was found to be elevated in UC. However, MV treatment significantly inhibited the UC and reversed the expression of inflammation signaling pathway including ERS and ERS-induced apoptosis. Additionally, the addition of tunicamycin (Tm), an ERS activator, significantly weakened the therapeutic effect of MV on UC in mice. These findings suggest that MV may be a therapeutic agent for the treatment of DSS-induced UC by inhibiting the activation of the ERS-apoptosis pathway, and may provide a novel avenue for the treatment of UC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue-Rong Tan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, No. 5333 Xi'an Road, Changchun, Jilin, 130062, China
| | - Si-Yang Shen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, No. 5333 Xi'an Road, Changchun, Jilin, 130062, China
| | - Xin-Yi Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, No. 5333 Xi'an Road, Changchun, Jilin, 130062, China
| | - Peng-Fei Yi
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, No. 5333 Xi'an Road, Changchun, Jilin, 130062, China
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Jilin University, No. 5333 Xi'an Road, Changchun, Jilin, 130062, China
| | - Ben-Dong Fu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, No. 5333 Xi'an Road, Changchun, Jilin, 130062, China.
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Jilin University, No. 5333 Xi'an Road, Changchun, Jilin, 130062, China.
| | - Lu-Yuan Peng
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, No. 5333 Xi'an Road, Changchun, Jilin, 130062, China.
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Jilin University, No. 5333 Xi'an Road, Changchun, Jilin, 130062, China.
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Zhang X, Zhou L, Qian X. The Mechanism of "Treating Different Diseases with the Same Treatment" by Qiangji Jianpi Decoction in Ankylosing Spondylitis Combined with Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Comprehensive Analysis of Multiple Methods. Gastroenterol Res Pract 2024; 2024:9709260. [PMID: 38808131 PMCID: PMC11132832 DOI: 10.1155/2024/9709260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are prevalent autoimmune disorders that often co-occur, posing significant treatment challenges. This investigation adopts a multidisciplinary strategy, integrating bioinformatics, network pharmacology, molecular docking, and Mendelian randomization, to elucidate the relationship between AS and IBD and to investigate the potential mechanisms of traditional Chinese medicine formulations, represented by Qiangji Jianpi (QJJP) decoction, in treating these comorbid conditions. Methods We utilized databases to pinpoint common targets among AS, IBD, and QJJP decoction's active compounds through intersection analysis. Through Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses, we mapped a network in Cytoscape, isolating critical targets. Molecular docking with AutoDock validated the affinity between targets and compounds. ROC analysis and dataset validation assessed diagnostic performance, while Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) offered pathway insights. Mendelian randomization explored the AS-IBD causal relationship. Results Screening identified 105 targets for QJJP decoction, 414 for AS, and 2420 for IBD, with 85 overlapping. These targets predominantly participate in organismal responses and DNA transcription factor binding, with a significant cellular presence in the endoplasmic reticulum and vesicle lumen. Molecular docking, facilitated by Cytoscape, confirmed IL1A, IFNG, TGFB1, and EDN1 as critical targets, with IFNG demonstrating diagnostic potential through GEO dataset validation. The integration of GSEA with network pharmacology highlighted the therapeutic significance of the relaxin, osteoclast differentiation, HIF-1, and AGE-RAGE signaling pathways in QJJP decoction's action. Mendelian randomization analysis indicated a positive causal relationship between IBD and AS, pinpointing rs2193041 as a key SNP influencing IFNG. Conclusion Based on the principle of "treating different diseases with the same method" in traditional Chinese medicine theory, we explored the intricate mechanisms through which QJJP decoction addresses AS and IBD comorbidity. Our research spotlighted the pivotal role of the IFNG gene. IFNG emerges not only as a key therapeutic target but also assumes significance as a potential diagnostic biomarker through its genetic underpinnings. This investigation establishes a solid base for subsequent experimental inquiries. Our findings introduce novel approaches for incorporating traditional Chinese medicine into the treatment of AS-IBD comorbidity, setting the stage for groundbreaking research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuhong Zhang
- Wuxi Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Wuxi, China
| | - Lamei Zhou
- Wuxi Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Wuxi, China
| | - Xian Qian
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
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Yang MJ, Zhang YN, Qiao Z, Xu RY, Chen SM, Hu P, Yu HL, Pan Y, Cao J. An investigation into the HIF-dependent intestinal barrier protective mechanism of Qingchang Wenzhong decoction in ulcerative colitis management. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 325:117807. [PMID: 38280661 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.117807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 01/29/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic, non-specific inflammatory disease affecting the colon and rectum with an etiology that remains elusive. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been widely used on long-term UC treatment to better maintain the efficacy than traditional aminosalicylic acid or glucocorticosteroids and to ease financial burden of patients. Qingchang Wenzhong Decoction (QCWZD) is a modern TCM decoction with established clinical efficacy but the mechanism of its protection on intestinal barrier function remains unclear. AIM OF THE STUDY Current findings highlight that the activation of the hypoxia inducible factor (HIF) pathway can facilitate the repair of intestinal epithelium barrier. This study is to investigate the protective effects of QCWZD and its HIF-targeted ingredients on hypoxia-dependent intestinal barrier. METHODS The mice model of UC was induced by dextran sulfate sodium (DSS). Disease activity index (DAI) and histopathology scores and colon length were used to measure the severity of colitis. The DAO activity in serum and protein expression of tight junction (TJ) proteins were detected to explore the function of intestinal barrier. The protein levels of HIF-1α and its downstream gene heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) were measured as well. HIF-targeted active ingredients in QCWZD were selected by network pharmacology and molecular docking. Protective effects of six constituents on HIF-related anti-oxidative and barrier protective pathway were evaluated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced HT29 and RAW264.7 cells, through the measurement of the production of ROS and mRNA level of pro-inflammatory cytokines. HIF-1α knockdown was carried out to explore the correlation of protection effects with HIF-related pathway of the active ingredients. RESULTS QCWZD effectively alleviated colitis induced by DSS and demonstrated a protective effect on intestinal barrier function by upregulating HIF-related pathways. Six specific ingredients in QCWZD, targeting HIF, successfully reduced the production of cellular ROS and proinflammatory cytokines in LPS-induced cells. It is noteworthy that the barrier protection provided by these molecules is intricately linked with the HIF-related pathway. CONCLUSIONS This study elucidates the HIF-related molecular mechanism of QCWZD in protecting the function of the epithelial barrier. Six compounds targeting the activation of the HIF-dependent pathway were demonstrated to unveil a novel therapeutic approach for managing UC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-Juan Yang
- School of pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 138 Xianlin Road, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Yi-Nuo Zhang
- School of pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 138 Xianlin Road, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Zhi Qiao
- School of pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 138 Xianlin Road, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Rui-Ying Xu
- School of pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 138 Xianlin Road, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Si-Min Chen
- School of pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 138 Xianlin Road, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Po Hu
- School of pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 138 Xianlin Road, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Hong-Li Yu
- School of pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 138 Xianlin Road, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Yang Pan
- School of pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 138 Xianlin Road, Nanjing, 210023, China.
| | - Jing Cao
- School of pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 138 Xianlin Road, Nanjing, 210023, China.
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Wu H, Jiang F, Yuan W, Zhao Y, Liu N, Miao X. Rauwolfia polysaccharide can inhibit the progress of ulcerative colitis through NOS2-mediated JAK2/STAT3 pathway. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0301660. [PMID: 38626146 PMCID: PMC11020939 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0301660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an inflammatory disease of the digestive tract. Rauwolfia polysaccharide (Rau) has therapeutic effects on colitis in mice, but its mechanism of action needs to be further clarified. In the study, we explored the effect of Rau on the UC cell model induced by Lipopolysaccharide (LPS). METHODS We constructed a UC cell model by stimulating HT-29 cells with LPS. Dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) was used to induce mice to construct an animal model of UC. Subsequently, we performed Rau administration on the UC cell model. Then, the therapeutic effect of Rau on UC cell model and was validated through methods such as Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK8), Muse, Quantitative real‑time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), Western blotting, and Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). RESULTS The results showed that Rau can promote the proliferation and inhibit the apoptosis of the HT-29 cells-induced by LPS. Moreover, we observed that Rau can inhibit the expression of NOS2/JAK2/STAT3 in LPS-induced HT-29 cells. To further explore the role of NOS2 in UC progression, we used siRNA technology to knock down NOS2 and search for its mechanism in UC. The results illustrated that NOS2 knockdown can promote proliferation and inhibit the apoptosis of LPS-induced HT-29 cells by JAK2/STAT3 pathway. In addition, in vitro and in vivo experiments, we observed that the activation of the JAK2/STAT3 pathway can inhibit the effect of Rau on DSS-induced UC model. CONCLUSION In short, Rauwolfia polysaccharide can inhibit the progress of ulcerative colitis through NOS2-mediated JAK2/STAT3 pathway. This study provides a theoretical clue for the treatment of UC by Rau.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haidong Wu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hainan General Hospital, Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Fan Jiang
- Medical Centre for Digestive Diseases, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Department of the Center of Gerontology, Hainan General Hospital, Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Wei Yuan
- Department of Emergency Surgery, Hainan General Hospital, Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Ye Zhao
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Ning Liu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Hainan General Hospital, Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Xinpu Miao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hainan General Hospital, Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
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Jia W, Yu S, Liu X, Le Q, He X, Yu L, He J, Yang L, Gao H. Ethanol Extract of Limonium bicolor Improves Dextran Sulfate Sodium-Induced Ulcerative Colitis by Alleviating Inflammation and Restoring Gut Microbiota Dysbiosis in Mice. Mar Drugs 2024; 22:175. [PMID: 38667792 PMCID: PMC11050939 DOI: 10.3390/md22040175] [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: 03/02/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a kind of inflammatory bowel condition characterized by inflammation within the mucous membrane, rectal bleeding, diarrhea, and pain experienced in the abdominal region. Existing medications for UC have limited treatment efficacy and primarily focus on symptom relief. Limonium bicolor (LB), an aquatic traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), exerts multi-targeted therapeutic effects with few side effects and is used to treat anemia and hemostasis. Nevertheless, the impact of LB on UC and its mechanism of action remain unclear. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate the anti-inflammatory effects and mechanism of action of ethanol extract of LB (LBE) in lipopolysaccharide-induced RAW 264.7 macrophages and dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced UC. The results showed that LBE suppressed the secretion of cytokines in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells in a dose-dependent manner. LBE had protective effects against DSS-induced colitis in mice, decreased the disease activity index (DAI) score, alleviated symptoms, increased colon length, and improved histological characteristics, thus having protective effects against DSS-induced colitis in mice. In addition, it reversed disturbances in the abundance of proteobacteria and probiotics such as Lactobacillus and Blautia in mice with DSS-induced UC. Based on the results of network pharmacology analysis, we identified four main compounds in LBE that are associated with five inflammatory genes (Ptgs2, Plg, Ppar-γ, F2, and Gpr35). These results improve comprehension of the biological activity and functionality of LB and may facilitate the development of LB-based compounds for the treatment of UC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Jia
- School of Traditional Chinese Materia Medica, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China; (W.J.); (S.Y.); (L.Y.)
- Technical Innovation Center for Utilization of Marine Biological Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen 361000, China; (Q.L.); (X.H.); (J.H.)
| | - Siyu Yu
- School of Traditional Chinese Materia Medica, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China; (W.J.); (S.Y.); (L.Y.)
- Technical Innovation Center for Utilization of Marine Biological Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen 361000, China; (Q.L.); (X.H.); (J.H.)
| | - Xi Liu
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology of Fujian Province, Department of Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361000, China;
| | - Qingqing Le
- Technical Innovation Center for Utilization of Marine Biological Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen 361000, China; (Q.L.); (X.H.); (J.H.)
| | - Xiwen He
- Technical Innovation Center for Utilization of Marine Biological Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen 361000, China; (Q.L.); (X.H.); (J.H.)
| | - Lutao Yu
- School of Traditional Chinese Materia Medica, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China; (W.J.); (S.Y.); (L.Y.)
- Technical Innovation Center for Utilization of Marine Biological Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen 361000, China; (Q.L.); (X.H.); (J.H.)
| | - Jianlin He
- Technical Innovation Center for Utilization of Marine Biological Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen 361000, China; (Q.L.); (X.H.); (J.H.)
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Island Monitoring and Ecological Development (Island Research Center, Ministry of Natural Resources), Fuzhou 350400, China
| | - Longhe Yang
- Technical Innovation Center for Utilization of Marine Biological Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen 361000, China; (Q.L.); (X.H.); (J.H.)
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Island Monitoring and Ecological Development (Island Research Center, Ministry of Natural Resources), Fuzhou 350400, China
| | - Huiyuan Gao
- School of Traditional Chinese Materia Medica, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China; (W.J.); (S.Y.); (L.Y.)
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Li H, Pu X, Lin Y, Yu X, Li J, Bo L, Wang H, Xu Y, Li X, Zheng D. Sijunzi decoction alleviates inflammation and intestinal epithelial barrier damage and modulates the gut microbiota in ulcerative colitis mice. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1360972. [PMID: 38650625 PMCID: PMC11033371 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1360972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Ethnopharmacological relevance As a representative classical prescription, Sijunzi decoction has powerful therapeutic effects on spleen-stomach qi insufficiency. Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic, diffuse, and non-specifically inflammatory disorder, the etiology of which still remains unclear. In the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) perspective, splenic asthenia is the primary cause of UC. Based on this, Sijunzi decoction has been extensively used in TCM clinical practice to alleviate UC in recent years. However, the pharmacological mechanism of Sijunzi decoction in modern medicine is still not completely clear, which limits its clinical application. Aim of the study The purpose of this study was to investigate the Sijunzi decoction's curative effect on acute UC mice and probe into its potential pharmacological mechanism. Materials and methods The UC mouse model was set up by freely ingesting a 3% dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) solution. The relieving role of Sijunzi decoction on UC in mice was analyzed by evaluating the changes in clinical parameters, colon morphology, histopathology, inflammatory factor content, intestinal epithelial barrier protein expression level, and gut microbiota balance state. Finally, multivariate statistical analysis was conducted to elucidate the relationship between inflammatory factors, intestinal epithelial barrier proteins, and gut microbiota. Results First, the research findings revealed that Sijunzi decoction could visibly ease the clinical manifestation of UC, lower the DAI score, and attenuate colonic damage. Moreover, Sijunzi decoction could also significantly inhibit IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α while increasing occludin and ZO-1 expression levels. Subsequently, further studies showed that Sijunzi decoction could remodel gut microbiota homeostasis. Sijunzi decoction was beneficial in regulating the levels of Alistipes, Akkermansia, Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group, and other bacteria. Finally, multivariate statistical analysis demonstrated that key gut microbes were closely associated with inflammatory factors and intestinal epithelial barrier proteins. Conclusion Sijunzi decoction can significantly prevent and treat UC. Its mechanism is strongly associated with the improvement of inflammation and intestinal epithelial barrier damage by regulating the gut microbiota.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hailun Li
- Department of Nephrology, Affiliated Huai’an Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Huai’an, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xing Pu
- Department of Nephrology, Affiliated Huai’an Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Huai’an, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yongtao Lin
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Jiangsu College of Nursing, Huai’an, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xinxin Yu
- Department of Nephrology, Affiliated Huai’an Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Huai’an, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Nephrology, Affiliated Huai’an Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Huai’an, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lin Bo
- Department of Nephrology, Affiliated Huai’an Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Huai’an, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hongwu Wang
- Department of Nephrology, Affiliated Huai’an Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Huai’an, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yong Xu
- Department of Nephrology, Affiliated Huai’an Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Huai’an, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiang Li
- Department of Nephrology, Affiliated Huai’an Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Huai’an, Jiangsu, China
| | - Donghui Zheng
- Department of Nephrology, Affiliated Huai’an Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Huai’an, Jiangsu, China
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Zhang Y, Li WW, Wang Y, Fan YW, Wang QY, Liu C, Jiang S, Shang EX, Duan JA. Investigation of the material basis and mechanism of Lizhong decoction in ameliorating ulcerative colitis based on spectrum-effect relationship and network pharmacology. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 323:117666. [PMID: 38159822 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.117666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Lizhong decoction (LZD), a classical herbal prescription recorded by Zhang Zhongjing in Treatise on Febrile and Miscellaneous Diseases, has been extensively used to treat ulcerative colitis (UC) in clinical practice for thousands of years. However, its material basis and underlying mechanism are not yet clear. AIM OF THE STUDY This study aims to explore the material basis and potential mechanism of LZD against UC based on the spectrum-effect relationship and network pharmacology. MATERIALS AND METHODS First, LZD was extracted by a systematic solvent extraction method into four parts. Ultra-high performance liquid chromatography tandem quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS) technique was used to identify the compounds from different polar parts, and dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis model was used to evaluate the efficacy of each fraction. Then, the spectrum-effect analyses of compounds and efficacy indicators were established via grey relational analysis (GRA), bivariate correlation analysis (BCA) and partial least squares regression (PLSR). Finally, the potential mechanism of LZD for UC therapy was explored by network pharmacology, and the results were further verified by molecular docking and reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). RESULTS 66 chemical components of LZD were identified by UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS technology. The pharmacodynamic results showed that extraction parts of LZD had different therapeutic effects on UC, among which ethyl acetate and n-butanol extracts had significant anti-colitis effects, which might be the main effective fractions of LZD. Furthermore, the spectrum-effect analyses indicated that 21 active ingredients such as liquiritin apioside, neolicuroside, formononetin, ginsenoside Rg1, 6-gingesulfonic acid, licoricesaponin A3, liquiritin, glycyrrhizic acid were the main material basis for LZD improving UC. Based on the above results, network pharmacology suggested that the amelioration of LZD on UC might be closely related to the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. Additionally, molecular docking technology and RT-qPCR further verified that LZD could markedly inhibit the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. CONCLUSION Overall, our study first identified the chemical compositions of LZD by using UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS. Furthermore, the material basis and potential mechanism of LZD in improving UC were comprehensively elucidated via spectrum-effect relationships, network pharmacology, molecular docking and experimental verification. The proposed strategy provided a systematic approach for exploring how herbal medicines worked. More importantly, it laid the solid foundation for further clinical application and rational development of LZD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Zhang
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 138 Xianlin Road, Nanjing, 210023, PR China
| | - Wen-Wen Li
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 138 Xianlin Road, Nanjing, 210023, PR China
| | - Yu Wang
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 138 Xianlin Road, Nanjing, 210023, PR China
| | - Yu-Wen Fan
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 138 Xianlin Road, Nanjing, 210023, PR China
| | - Qu-Yi Wang
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 138 Xianlin Road, Nanjing, 210023, PR China
| | - Chen Liu
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 138 Xianlin Road, Nanjing, 210023, PR China
| | - Shu Jiang
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 138 Xianlin Road, Nanjing, 210023, PR China.
| | - Er-Xin Shang
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 138 Xianlin Road, Nanjing, 210023, PR China
| | - Jin-Ao Duan
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 138 Xianlin Road, Nanjing, 210023, PR China.
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Zhang X, Gao X, Yi X, Yu H, Shao M, Li Y, Shen X. Multi-targeting inulin-based nanoparticles with cannabidiol for effective prevention of ulcerative colitis. Mater Today Bio 2024; 25:100965. [PMID: 38318477 PMCID: PMC10839446 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2024.100965] [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: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
The pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis (UC) is closely related to severe inflammation, damaged colonic mucosal barrier, increased oxidative stress and intestinal ecological imbalance. However, due to the nonspecific distribution and poor bioavailability of drugs, UC treatment is still a serious challenge. Here, a mitochondria/colon dual targeted nanoparticles based on redox response was developed to effectively alleviate UC. Cannabidiol nanoparticles (CBD NPs) with a particle size of 143.2 ± 3.11 nm were prepared by self-assembly using polymers (TPP-IN-LA) obtained by modifying inulin with (5-carboxypentyl) triphenyl phosphonium bromide (TPP) and α-lipoic acid (α-LA). Excitingly, the constructed CBD NPs showed excellent mitochondrial targeting, with a Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.76 at 12 h. The results of animal imaging in vivo showed that CBD NPs could be effectively accumulated in colon tissue. Not only that, CBD showed significant glutathione stimulated release in the presence of 10 mM glutathione at pH 7.4. The results of in vivo animal experiments showed that CBD NPs significantly ameliorated DSS-induced colonic inflammation by modulating the TLR4-NF-κB signaling pathway. Moreover, CBD NPs significantly improved the histological damage of colon in UC mice, increased the expression level of tight junction protein ZO-1, and effectively restored the intestinal mucosal barrier function and intestinal mucosal permeability. More importantly, CBD NPs significantly improved the species composition, abundance and amount of short chain fatty acids of intestinal flora in UC mice, thus effectively maintaining the balance of intestinal flora. The dual-targeted and glutathione-responsive nanoparticles prepared in this study provide a promising idea for achieving targeted delivery of CBD for effective treatment of UC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Zhang
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, China
- Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Functional Food of Hainan Province, Haikou, 570228, China
- Hainan Engineering Research Center of Aquatic Resources Efficient Utilization in South China Sea, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, China
| | - Xia Gao
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, China
- Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Functional Food of Hainan Province, Haikou, 570228, China
- Hainan Engineering Research Center of Aquatic Resources Efficient Utilization in South China Sea, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, China
| | - Xiangzhou Yi
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, China
- Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Functional Food of Hainan Province, Haikou, 570228, China
- Hainan Engineering Research Center of Aquatic Resources Efficient Utilization in South China Sea, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, China
| | - Hui Yu
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, China
- Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Functional Food of Hainan Province, Haikou, 570228, China
- Hainan Engineering Research Center of Aquatic Resources Efficient Utilization in South China Sea, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, China
| | - Mingyang Shao
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, China
- Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Functional Food of Hainan Province, Haikou, 570228, China
- Hainan Engineering Research Center of Aquatic Resources Efficient Utilization in South China Sea, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, China
| | - Yongcheng Li
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, China
- Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Functional Food of Hainan Province, Haikou, 570228, China
- Hainan Engineering Research Center of Aquatic Resources Efficient Utilization in South China Sea, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, China
| | - Xuanri Shen
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, China
- College of Food Science and Technology, Hainan Tropical Ocean University, Sanya, 572022, China
- Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Functional Food of Hainan Province, Haikou, 570228, China
- Hainan Engineering Research Center of Aquatic Resources Efficient Utilization in South China Sea, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, China
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Wang D, Wang Q, Wang Y, Li T, Tian M. Effects of acupuncture and moxibustion on ulcerative colitis: An overview of systematic reviews. Heliyon 2024; 10:e27524. [PMID: 38510004 PMCID: PMC10951544 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e27524] [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: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a gastrointestinal disease with an unknown etiology that severely affects patients' quality of life. Acupuncture and moxibustion therapies are effective in the treatment of UC, but existing systematic reviews (SRs) and meta-analyses (MAs) on this subject have variable methodological and outcome quality. Therefore, this study aimed to summarize and evaluate the evidence of existing SRs and MAs to provide more reliable evidence for clinical practice. Data were extracted from seven databases through systematic search and evaluated in terms of the methodological quality, reporting quality, risk of bias, and quality of evidence using the AMSTAR-2, PRISMA, ROBIS, and GRADE systems, respectively. Ten studies were finally included, and all of them showed many problems with the overall design and quality of outcomes. Because of the lack of high-quality evidence to support the findings from the existing studies, we should take this conclusion with caution and strictly implement the registration, design, and implementation of trials based on evidence to provide high-quality results in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Wang
- Department of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Gastroenterology, Third Affiliated Clinical Hospital to Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun 130117, Jilin, China
| | - Qi Wang
- College of Acupuncture and Massage, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun 130117, Jilin Province, China
| | - Yunhe Wang
- Department of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Gastroenterology, Third Affiliated Clinical Hospital to Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun 130117, Jilin, China
| | - Ting Li
- Department of Liver, Spleen and Stomach Diseases, The Affiliated Hospital to Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, Jilin, 130021, China
| | - Mi Tian
- Department of Liver, Spleen and Stomach Diseases, Jilin Province Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Changchun 130021, Jilin, China
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Tao Y, Wang L, Ye X, Qian X, Pan D, Dong X, Jiang Q, Hu P. Huang Qin decoction increases SLC6A4 expression and blocks the NFκB-mediated NLRP3/Caspase1/GSDMD pathway to disrupt colitis-associated carcinogenesis. Funct Integr Genomics 2024; 24:55. [PMID: 38467948 PMCID: PMC10927794 DOI: 10.1007/s10142-024-01334-x] [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: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
Huang Qin decoction (HQD) is a traditional Chinese medicine formula for treating colitis, but the effects and molecular mechanism of action of HQD in colitis-associated carcinogenesis (CAC) are still unclear. Therefore, we aimed to determine the beneficial effects of HQD on CAC in mice and to reveal the underlying mechanism involved. AOM/DSS was used to induce CAC in mice, and the effects of HQD on tumorigenesis in mice were examined (with mesalazine serving as a positive control). Mesalazine or HQD treatment alleviated body weight loss and decreased the disease activity index in mice induced by AOM/DSS. Mesalazine or HQD treatment also suppressed the shortening of colon tissue length, the number of tumors, and the infiltration of inflammatory cells. The genes targeted by HQD were predicted and verified, followed by knockout experiments. Elevated SLC6A4 and inhibited serotonin production and inflammation were observed in HQD-treated mice. HQD inhibited the NFκB and NLRP3/caspase1/GSDMD pathways. The therapeutic effect of HQD was diminished in SLC6A4-deficient AOM/DSS mice. Additionally, the downregulation of SLC6A4 mitigated the inhibitory effect of HQD-containing serum on MODE-K cell pyroptosis. Our findings suggest that SLC6A4 is a pivotal regulator of HQD-alleviated CAC via its modulation of the NLRP3/caspase1/GSDMD pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yili Tao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Changzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changzhou, 213000, Jiangsu, P.R. China
| | - Lai Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Changzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changzhou, 213000, Jiangsu, P.R. China
| | - Xiaofeng Ye
- Department of Gastroenterology, Changzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changzhou, 213000, Jiangsu, P.R. China
| | - Xin Qian
- Department of Gastroenterology, Changzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changzhou, 213000, Jiangsu, P.R. China
| | - Danye Pan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Changzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changzhou, 213000, Jiangsu, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoyu Dong
- Department of Gastroenterology, Changzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changzhou, 213000, Jiangsu, P.R. China
| | - Qian Jiang
- Digestive Disease Diagnosis and Treatment Center of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Changzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changzhou, 213000, Jiangsu, P.R. China
| | - Po Hu
- Department of Pulmonary Diseases, Changzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changzhou, 213000, Jiangsu, P.R. China.
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Li C, Huo D, Liu X, Yang H, Pang Y, Tang Q, Xing H, Shi Y, Chen X. Interpreting the chemical changes and therapeutic effect of Coptidis Rhizoma against ulcerative colitis before and after processing based on mathematical statistics and network pharmacology. PHYTOCHEMICAL ANALYSIS : PCA 2024; 35:271-287. [PMID: 37779218 DOI: 10.1002/pca.3287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Coptidis Rhizoma (CR) is one of the most frequently used herbs to treat ulcerative colitis (UC) and is often processed before usage. However, the composition changes and therapeutic effects of CR before and after processing in the treatment of UC are still unclear. OBJECTIVE The purpose of the study is to explore the chemical components and therapeutic effects of crude and processed CR. MATERIAL AND METHODS CR was processed according to the 2020 version of the Chinese Pharmacopoeia. The liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) and multivariate statistical analysis were used to screen the different compounds before and after processing. The network pharmacological prediction was carried out. The mechanism and therapeutic effects between crude and processed CR were verified by using dextran sulphate sodium-induced UC mice assay. RESULTS Ten compounds distinguish crude and processed CR based on multivariate statistical analysis. Network pharmacology predicts that the 10 compounds mainly play a role through TNF-α and IL-6 targets and PI3K/Akt and HIF-1 signalling pathways, and these results are verified by molecular biology experiments. For IL-6, IL-10 and TNF-α inflammatory factors, CR is not effective, while CR stir-fried with Evodiae Fructus (CRFE) and ginger juice (CRGJ) are. For PI3K/p-Akt, Cleaved caspase3, NF- κBp65 and HIF-1α signalling pathways, CR has therapeutic effects, while CRFE and CRGJ are significant. CONCLUSION Overall, CRFE and CRGJ show better effects in treating UC. The chemical changes of processing and the efficacy of processed CR are correlated, which provides a scientific basis for the clinical use of crude and processed CR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunxia Li
- State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Bingjing, China
| | - Dongna Huo
- State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiuxue Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Hongxia Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Yuqing Pang
- State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Qian Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Hong Xing
- State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Yumeng Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiaopeng Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- Haihe Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
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Rehman IU, Saleem M, Raza SA, Bashir S, Muhammad T, Asghar S, Qamar MU, Shah TA, Bin Jardan YA, Mekonnen AB, Bourhia M. Anti-ulcerative colitis effects of chemically characterized extracts from C alliandra haematocephala in acetic acid-induced ulcerative colitis. Front Chem 2024; 12:1291230. [PMID: 38476652 PMCID: PMC10927971 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2024.1291230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Ulcerative colitis is a chronic immune-mediated inflammatory bowel disease that involves inflammation and ulcers of the colon and rectum. To date, no definite cure for this disease is available. Objective: The objective of the current study was to assess the effect of Calliandra haematocephala on inflammatory mediators and oxidative stress markers for the exploration of its anti-ulcerative colitis activity in rat models of acetic acid-induced ulcerative colitis. Methods: Methanolic and n-hexane extracts of areal parts of the plant were prepared by cold extraction method. Phytochemical analysis of both extracts was performed by qualitative analysis, quantitative methods, and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Prednisone at 2 mg/kg dose and plant extracts at 250, 500, and 750 mg/kg doses were given to Wistar rats for 11 days, which were given acetic acid on 8th day through the trans-rectal route for the induction of ulcerative colitis. A comparison of treatment groups was done with a normal control group and a colitis control group. To evaluate the anti-ulcerative colitis activity of Calliandra haematocephala, different parameters such as colon macroscopic damage, ulcer index, oxidative stress markers, histopathological examination, and mRNA expression of pro and anti-inflammatory mediators were evaluated. mRNA expression analysis was carried out by reverse transcription quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Results: The phytochemical evaluation revealed polyphenols, flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, and sterols in both extracts of the plant. Results of the present study exhibited that both extracts attenuated the large bowel inflammation and prevented colon ulceration at all tested doses. Macroscopic damage and ulcer scoreswere significantly decreased by both extracts. Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and nitrite/nitrate concentrations in colon tissues were returned to normal levels while superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity was significantly improved by all doses. Histopathological examination exhibited that both extracts prevented the inflammatory changes, cellular infiltration, and colon thickening. Gene expression analysis by RT-qPCR revealed the downregulation of pro-inflammatory markers such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) whereas the anti-inflammatory cytokines including Interleukin-4 (IL-4) and Interleukin-10 (IL-10) were found to be upregulated in treated rats. Conclusion: It was concluded based on study outcomes that methanolic and n-hexane extracts of Calliandra haematocephala exhibited anti-ulcerative colitis activity through modulation of antioxidant defense mechanisms and the immune system. In this context, C. haematocephala can be considered as a potential therapeutic approach for cure of ulcerative colitis after bioassay-directed isolation of bioactive phytochemicals and clinical evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inaam Ur Rehman
- Punjab University College of Pharmacy, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Mohammad Saleem
- Punjab University College of Pharmacy, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Syed Atif Raza
- Punjab University College of Pharmacy, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Saher Bashir
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Taha Muhammad
- Shalamar Medical and Dental College, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Shahzad Asghar
- Department of Pharmacy, University of South Asia, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Usman Qamar
- Institute of Microbiology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Government College University Faisalabad, Faisalabad, Pakistan
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Tawaf Ali Shah
- College of Agriculture Engineering and Food Science, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo, China
| | - Yousef A. Bin Jardan
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Mohammed Bourhia
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Natural Resources Valorization, Faculty of Sciences of Agadir, Ibnou Zohr University, Agadir, Morocco
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Zhao M, Qiao C, Cui Z, Zhang W, Yang S, Zhu C, Du F, Ning T, Xie S, Liu S, Li P, Xu J, Zhu S. Moluodan promotes DSS-induced intestinal inflammation involving the reprogram of macrophage function and polarization. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 320:117393. [PMID: 37952735 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.117393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Moluodan (MLD) is a traditional Chinese medicine that is composed of 18 herbal medicines based on traditional Chinese medicine theory and practice. It has long been used in treating chronic gastritis and its components were traditionally used in dealing with intestinal inflammation. However, its specific pharmacological mechanism is still unclear. AIM OF THE STUDY The upper and lower digestive tract diseases are correlated. In clinical practice, some chronic gastritis patients are also accompanied by intestinal inflammation. Due to the unclear pharmacological mechanism of MLD and its effect on intestinal inflammation, there is doubt whether MLD is still suitable for this type of patient. Therefore, this study aims to elucidate the pharmacological mechanism of MLD and identify its effect in the mouse model of intestinal inflammation. MATERIALS AND METHODS Mice intestinal inflammation model was induced by 2.5% dextran sulfate sodium (DSS). The mice were given different concentrations of MLD via oral gavage (0.25, 0.5 g/kg b.w.). Pharmacodynamic indicators were assessed including body weight, colon length, disease activity index (DAI), bloody stool score, inflammatory factors, histological change, etc. RAW264.7 macrophage cells were used for in vitro experiments that illuminated the role of MLD in reprogramming macrophage function and polarization. RT-qPCR and western blots were performed to measure the mRNA and protein levels of macrophage polarization marker and effector molecules. The functions of polarized macrophages were tested using ROS detection probes, Edu assay and wound healing assay. RESULTS The administration of MLD exhibited obvious hemostatic effects, while unexpectedly accentuating various aspects of the DSS-induced intestinal inflammation in mice, including increased body weight loss and colon shortening, elevated disease activity index, and intensified colonic tissue damage. Additionally, MLD treatment induced more severe inflammatory cell infiltration and higher proinflammatory cytokines expression in colon tissue. Further results showed that MLD promoted M1 macrophage polarization and stimulated its proinflammatory cytokines expression, while only slightly affecting the function of M2 macrophage. Western blot analysis revealed that MLD induced the phosphorylation of AKT and NF-κB. The polarization of M1 macrophages induced by MLD was inhibited by either an Akt inhibitor or a NF-κB inhibitor. CONCLUSIONS Although MLD has an obvious hemostatic effect, it generally promoted the severity of DSS-induced colitis in mice by facilitating macrophage polarization toward the M1 phenotype through the AKT/NF-κB pathway. Our study suggested that MLD may not be suitable for colitis, especially during the acute inflammation stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengran Zhao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Disease, Beijing Digestive Disease Center, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Health, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Chen Qiao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Disease, Beijing Digestive Disease Center, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Health, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Zilu Cui
- Department of Gastroenterology, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Disease, Beijing Digestive Disease Center, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Health, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Wen Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Shuyue Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Disease, Beijing Digestive Disease Center, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Health, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Congmin Zhu
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Capital Medical University, Beijing Key Laboratory of Fundamental Research on Biomechanics in Clinical Application, Beijing, China
| | - Feng Du
- Department of Gastroenterology, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Disease, Beijing Digestive Disease Center, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Health, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Tingting Ning
- Department of Gastroenterology, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Disease, Beijing Digestive Disease Center, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Health, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Sian Xie
- Department of Gastroenterology, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Disease, Beijing Digestive Disease Center, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Health, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Si Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Disease, Beijing Digestive Disease Center, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Health, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Peng Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Disease, Beijing Digestive Disease Center, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Health, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Junxuan Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Disease, Beijing Digestive Disease Center, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Health, Beijing, 100050, China.
| | - Shengtao Zhu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Disease, Beijing Digestive Disease Center, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Health, Beijing, 100050, China.
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Zhang G, Han X, Xu T, Liu M, Chen G, Xie L, Xu H, Hua Y, Pang M, Hu C, Wu Y, Liu B, Zhou Y. Buyang Huanwu Decoction suppresses cardiac inflammation and fibrosis in mice after myocardial infarction through inhibition of the TLR4 signalling pathway. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 320:117388. [PMID: 37949329 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.117388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE It has been reported that cardiac inflammation and fibrosis participate in the development of heart failure (HF) following myocardial infarction (MI). Anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic treatments exhibit therapeutic efficacy in MI. Buyang Huanwu Decoction (BYHWD) has cardioprotective properties. However, whether BYHWD regulates cardiac inflammation and fibrosis in HF after MI, and the underlying mechanisms, are still unknown. AIM OF THE STUDY This study aimed to explore the effects and potential mechanisms of BYHWD on cardiac inflammation and fibrosis after MI. MATERIALS AND METHODS An MI model was constructed through ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) in mice. The cardioprotective effects of BYHWD were determined by echocardiography, Masson trichrome staining, wheat germ agglutinin (WGA) staining and haematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining. The effects of BYHWD on inflammation and fibrosis, and on the TLR4 signalling pathway, were explored through immunohistochemistry (IHC), Western blot (WB), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) in vivo. Next, the effects of BYHWD on primary cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) inflammation and collagen synthesis, and on the TLR4 signalling pathway, were detected using WB, immunofluorescence (IF) and qRT-PCR in vitro. In addition, the suppression and overexpression of TLR4 in CFs were further explored. RESULTS BYHWD dose-dependently reduced cardiac inflammation, fibrosis and ventricular dysfunction. The expression levels of collagen Ⅰ/Ⅲ, IL-1β and IL-18, as well as critical proteins in the TLR4 signalling pathway and the NLRP3 inflammasome, were suppressed by BYHWD in the in vivo experiment. BYHWD inhibited CFs inflammation and collagen synthesis, as well as critical proteins in the TLR4 signalling pathway and the NLRP3 inflammasome, in the in vitro experiment. TLR4 suppression mitigated these inhibitory effects of BYHWD while overexpression of TLR4 markedly reversed these inhibitory effects of BYHWD. CONCLUSION BYHWD exerts anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic effects in mice after MI, and suppresses CFs inflammation and collagen synthesis through suppression of the TLR4 signalling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guoyong Zhang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanfang Hospital (ZengCheng Branch), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China; School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Xin Han
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanfang Hospital (ZengCheng Branch), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China; School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Tong Xu
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanfang Hospital (ZengCheng Branch), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China; School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Min Liu
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Guanghong Chen
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanfang Hospital (ZengCheng Branch), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China; School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Lingpeng Xie
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China; Department of Hepatology, Cancer Center, Integrated Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510315, China
| | - Honglin Xu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China; Department of geratology, Affliated Dongguan Hospital, Southern Medical University (Dongguan People's Hospital), Dongguan, 523058, China
| | - Yue Hua
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Mingjie Pang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanfang Hospital (ZengCheng Branch), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China; School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Changlei Hu
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanfang Hospital (ZengCheng Branch), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China; School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Yuting Wu
- Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, 256603, China.
| | - Bin Liu
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, China.
| | - Yingchun Zhou
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanfang Hospital (ZengCheng Branch), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China; School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China.
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Guan Y, Tang G, Li L, Shu J, Zhao Y, Huang L, Tang J. Herbal medicine and gut microbiota: exploring untapped therapeutic potential in neurodegenerative disease management. Arch Pharm Res 2024; 47:146-164. [PMID: 38225532 PMCID: PMC10830735 DOI: 10.1007/s12272-023-01484-9] [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: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
The gut microbiota that exists in the human gastrointestinal tract is incredibly important for the maintenance of general health as it contributes to multiple aspects of host physiology. Recent research has revealed a dynamic connection between the gut microbiota and the central nervous system, that can influence neurodegenerative diseases (NDs). Indeed, imbalances in the gut microbiota, or dysbiosis, play a vital role in the pathogenesis and progression of human diseases, particularly NDs. Herbal medicine has been used for centuries to treat human diseases, including NDs. These compounds help to relieve symptoms and delay the progression of NDs by improving intestinal barrier function, reducing neuroinflammation, and modulating neurotransmitter production. Notably, herbal medicine can mitigate the progression of NDs by regulating the gut microbiota. Therefore, an in-depth understanding of the potential mechanisms by which herbal medicine regulates the gut microbiota in the treatment of NDs can help explain the pathogenesis of NDs from a novel perspective and propose novel therapeutic strategies for NDs. In this review, we investigate the potential neuroprotective effects of herbal medicine, focusing on its ability to regulate the gut microbiota and restore homeostasis. We also highlight the challenges and future research priorities of the integration of herbal medicine and modern medicine. As the global population ages, access to this information is becoming increasingly important for developing effective treatments for these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yueyue Guan
- Department of Brain Disease, Chongqing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing, 400021, China
| | - Guohua Tang
- Department of Brain Disease, Chongqing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing, 400021, China
| | - Lei Li
- Department of Anorectal Surgery, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610072, China
| | - Jianzhong Shu
- Department of Brain Disease, Chongqing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing, 400021, China
| | - Yuhua Zhao
- Department of Brain Disease, Chongqing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing, 400021, China
| | - Li Huang
- Department of Brain Disease, Chongqing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing, 400021, China.
| | - Jun Tang
- Department of Brain Disease, Chongqing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing, 400021, China.
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Liu K, Shi C, Yan C, Yin Y, Qiu L, He S, Chen W, Li G. Fufangxiaopi formula alleviates DSS-induced colitis in mice by inhibiting inflammatory reaction, protecting intestinal barrier and regulating intestinal microecology. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 319:117365. [PMID: 38380568 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.117365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Fufangxiaopi Formula (FF) is a modified form of Sishen Wan, traditionally used for treating diarrhea. The application of FF for treating ulcerative colitis (UC) has achieved desirable outcomes in clinical settings. However, the underlying mechanism of the effect of FF on UC is yet to be determined. AIM OF STUDY This study aimed to evaluate the protective effect and underlying mechanism of FF on mice with dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced colitis. MATERIALS AND METHODS In vivo, the efficacy of FF on the symptoms associated with DSS-induced colitis in mice was clarified by observing the body weight change, colon length, DAI score, and H&E staining. The release of inflammatory mediators in mouse colon tissues was detected by ELISA and MPO, and the contents of TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway and MAPK signaling pathway-related proteins, as well as intestinal barrier-related proteins, were detected in mouse colon tissues by western blot method. Changes in the content of barrier proteins in mouse colon tissues were detected by immunofluorescence. 16S rRNA sequencing and FMT were performed to clarify the effects of FF on intestinal flora. In vitro, the effect of FF-containing serum on LPS-induced inflammatory mediator release from RAW264.7 cells were detected by qRT-PCR. The contents of TLR4/NF The effects of FF-containing serum on B signaling pathway and MAPK signaling pathway related proteins in RAW264.7 cells and intestinal barrier related proteins in Caco-2 cells were detected by western blot. The effects of FF-containing serum on LPS-induced nuclear translocation of p65 protein in RAW264.7 cells and barrier-associated protein in Caco-2 cells were detected by immunofluorescence. RESULTS In vivo studies showed that FF could significantly alleviate the symptoms of UC, including reducing colon length, weight loss, clinical score, and colon tissue injury in mice. FF could significantly reduce the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines by suppressing the activation of the TLR4/NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways. Moreover, FF could protect the integrity of intestinal barriers by significantly increasing claudin-3, occludin, and ZO-1 expression levels. 16S rRNA sequencing and FMT elucidate that FF can alleviate symptoms associated with colitis in mice by interfering with intestinal flora. In vitro studies showed that FF drug-containing serum could significantly inhibit proinflammatory responses and attenuate the secretion of iNOS, IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6, and COX-2 by suppressing the activation of TLR4/NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways in RAW264.7 cells. Furthermore, FF could protect the Caco-2 cell epithelial barrier. CONCLUSION FF could alleviate DSS-induced colitis in mice by maintaining the intestinal barrier, inhibiting the activation of TLR4/NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways, reducing the release of proinflammatory factors, and regulating intestinal microecology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kunjian Liu
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, 130117, China
| | - Chong Shi
- Anorectal Department, First Affiliated Hospital of Changchun University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Chengqiu Yan
- Anorectal Department, First Affiliated Hospital of Changchun University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Yu Yin
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, 130117, China
| | - Li Qiu
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, 130117, China
| | - Shuangyan He
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, 130117, China
| | - Weijie Chen
- Office of Student Affairs, First Affiliated Hospital of Changchun University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Guofeng Li
- Anorectal Department, First Affiliated Hospital of Changchun University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changchun, 130021, China.
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Liu X, Ye M, He Y, Lai Q, Liu B, Zhang L. Investigation of Tongxie-Yaofang formula in treating ulcerative colitis based on network pharmacology via regulating MAPK/AKT signaling pathway. Aging (Albany NY) 2024; 16:1911-1924. [PMID: 38271090 PMCID: PMC10866423 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205467] [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: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a subtype of inflammatory bowel disease, which often leads to bloody diarrhea and abdominal pain. In this study, the function mechanism of Tongxie-Yaofang formula (TXYF) on UC was investigated. METHODS Action targets of TXYF were obtained by Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database (TCMSP) and Traditional Chinese Medicine Integrated Database (TCMID) databases. The targets of UC were screened in Gene Cards and Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM) databases. The network pharmacology of active ingredient targets was established via Cytoscape. RESULTS A total of 42 chemical components and 5806 disease targets were obtained. The GO functional analysis showed that biological processes such as oxidative stress and molecular response to bacteria, molecular function such as protein and nucleic acid binding activity were significantly enriched. The top 20 KEGG enriched signal pathways indicated that the targets were mainly linked with IL-17, TNF, HIF-1. Molecular docking results showed that naringenin had good binding activity between naringin and MAPK, albiflorin and SRC. The activity of MPO, the concentration of HIF-1, IL-17 and TNF-α were significantly decreased after TXYF treatment. The characteristics of UC such as crypt distortion, crypt atrophy, and increased basal plasmacytosis were also less observed with the treatment of TXYF. What's more, TXYF suppresses the phosphorylation of SRC, MAPK and AKT1 in UC. CONCLUSIONS TXYF showed treatment effect on UC through multiple components and multiple targets, which lays a foundation for further study of UC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinhong Liu
- Department of Proctology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330000, China
| | - Mao Ye
- Department of Proctology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330000, China
| | - Yinglin He
- Department of Proctology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330000, China
| | - Qin Lai
- Department of Proctology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330000, China
| | - Bo Liu
- Department of Proctology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330000, China
| | - Leichang Zhang
- Formula-Pattern Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330000, China
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Xu F, Yu P, Wu H, Liu M, Liu H, Zeng Q, Wu D, Wang X. Aqueous extract of Sargentodoxa cuneata alleviates ulcerative colitis and its associated liver injuries in mice through the modulation of intestinal flora and related metabolites. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1295822. [PMID: 38328432 PMCID: PMC10847537 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1295822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a refractory disease worldwide. Liver injury can be found clinically with UC, and now, it is found that gut dysbiosis is an important mechanism in the pathogenesis of UC. Sargentodoxa cuneata has been used as a traditional Chinese medicine and is commonly used clinically for the treatment of UC. The main objective of this study was to investigate the intrinsic mechanisms of Sargentodoxa cuneata in the treatment of UC and its associated liver injuries from the perspective of intestinal flora and related metabolites. Methods Ultra-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry was used to identify the components in the aqueous extract of Sargentodoxa cuneata (AESc). Mice with UC induced by dextran sulfate sodium were used to study the effects of AESc on UC and its associated liver injuries. Furthermore, 16S rRNA gene sequencing and analysis were performed on intestinal contents, and correlation analysis of intestinal flora with short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and organic acids was performed. Results A total of 114 compounds were identified in AESc. AESc improved disease activity index scores, liver index, and colon length in mice with UC and had a good protective effect on intestine and liver injuries. Moreover, the administration of AESc regulated gut microbiota dysbiosis and the levels of a few SCFAs and organic acids in mice with UC. In addition, the correlation analysis results showed that the Megamonas and Bifidobacterium were the key intestinal flora related to the levels of differential SCFAs and organic acids in mice with UC after AESc intervention. Conclusion AESc has a good protective effect on UC and UC related liver injuries. Modulation of the intestinal flora and its metabolites (SCFAs and a few organic acids) is an important pathway for AESc in the treatment of UC and also provides a rationale for the clinical use of Sargentodoxa cuneata in the treatment of UC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Xu
- Department of Pharmacy, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, China
| | - Piao Yu
- Department of Pharmacy, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, China
| | - Hongmei Wu
- Department of Pharmacy, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, China
| | - Mei Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, China
| | - Hongyun Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, China
| | - Qian Zeng
- Department of Pharmacy, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, China
| | - Dengli Wu
- Department of Pharmacy, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, China
| | - Xiangpei Wang
- School of Chinese Ethnic Medicine, Guizhou Minzu University, Guiyang, China
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Wang M, Fu R, Xu D, Chen Y, Yue S, Zhang S, Tang Y. Traditional Chinese Medicine: A promising strategy to regulate the imbalance of bacterial flora, impaired intestinal barrier and immune function attributed to ulcerative colitis through intestinal microecology. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 318:116879. [PMID: 37419224 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Globally, plant materials are widely used as an additional and alternative therapy for the treating of diverse diseases. Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic, recurrent and nonspecific inflammation of the bowel, referred to as "modern intractable disease" according to the World Health Organization. With the continuous development of theoretical research in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and the advantages of TCM in terms of low side effects, TCM has shown great progress in the research of treating UC. AIM OF THIS REVIEW This review aimed to explore the correlation between intestinal microbiota and UC, summarize research advances in TCM for treating UC, and discuss the mechanism of action of TCM remedies in regulating intestinal microbiota and repairing damaged intestinal barrier, which will provide a theoretical basis for future studies to elucidate the mechanism of TCM remedies based on gut microbiota and provide novel ideas for the clinical treatment of UC. METHODS We have collected and collated relevant articles from different scientific databases in recent years on the use of TCM in treating UC in relation to intestinal microecology. Based on the available studies, the therapeutic effects of TCM are analysed and the correlation between the pathogenesis of UC and intestinal microecology is explored. RESULTS TCM is used to further protect the intestinal epithelium and tight junctions, regulate immunity and intestinal flora by regulating intestinal microecology, thereby achieving the effect of treating UC. Additionally, TCM remedies can effectively increase the abundance of beneficial bacteria that produce short-chain fatty acids, decrease the abundance of pathogenic bacteria, restore the balance of intestinal microbiota, and indirectly alleviate intestinal mucosal immune barrier dysfunction and promote the repair of damaged colorectal mucosa. CONCLUSION Intestinal microbiota is closely related to UC pathogenesis. The alleviation of intestinal dysbiosis can be a potential novel therapeutic strategy for UC. TCM remedies can exert protective and therapeutic effects on UC through various mechanisms. Although intestinal microbiota can aid in the identification of different TCM syndromes types, further studies are needed using modern medical technology. This will improve the clinical therapeutic efficacy of TCM remedies in UC and promote the application of precision medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei Wang
- Key Laboratory of Shaanxi Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine for TCM Compatibility, State Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Characteristic Qin Medicine Resources (Cultivation), Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Fundamentals and New Drugs Research, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xi'an, 712046, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Ruijia Fu
- Key Laboratory of Shaanxi Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine for TCM Compatibility, State Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Characteristic Qin Medicine Resources (Cultivation), Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Fundamentals and New Drugs Research, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xi'an, 712046, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Dingqiao Xu
- Key Laboratory of Shaanxi Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine for TCM Compatibility, State Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Characteristic Qin Medicine Resources (Cultivation), Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Fundamentals and New Drugs Research, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xi'an, 712046, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Yanyan Chen
- Key Laboratory of Shaanxi Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine for TCM Compatibility, State Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Characteristic Qin Medicine Resources (Cultivation), Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Fundamentals and New Drugs Research, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xi'an, 712046, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Shijun Yue
- Key Laboratory of Shaanxi Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine for TCM Compatibility, State Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Characteristic Qin Medicine Resources (Cultivation), Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Fundamentals and New Drugs Research, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xi'an, 712046, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Sai Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Shaanxi Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine for TCM Compatibility, State Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Characteristic Qin Medicine Resources (Cultivation), Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Fundamentals and New Drugs Research, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xi'an, 712046, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Yuping Tang
- Key Laboratory of Shaanxi Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine for TCM Compatibility, State Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Characteristic Qin Medicine Resources (Cultivation), Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Fundamentals and New Drugs Research, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xi'an, 712046, Shaanxi Province, China.
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He YX, Li YY, Wu YQ, Ren LZ, Wang Y, Wang YM, Yu Y. Huanglian Ganjiang decoction alleviates ulcerative colitis by restoring gut barrier via APOC1-JNK/P38 MAPK signal pathway based on proteomic analysis. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 318:116994. [PMID: 37541400 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a kind of chronic intestinal inflammation accompanied with abdominal pain, diarrhea and hematochezia. Huanglian Ganjiang decoction (HGD) derived from "Beiji Qianjin Yao Fang" was used for UC patients clinically. However, the specific mechanism of HGD in treating UC remain unclear. AIM OF STUDY Our study devoted to demonstrating the therapeutic effect of HGD for colitis and clarifying the underlying mechanism. MATERIALS AND METHODS UPLC-MS was carried out to identify the ingredients of HGD. UC mice were induced by giving 3% dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) solution for one week and treated by HGD for another week. Body weight fluctuation, disease activity index (DAI), colon length and pathological change of colon tissues were observed to evaluate therapeutical effect of HGD. ELISA and qPCR were carried out to estimate the inflammatory state. Western blot, qPCR and immunofluorescence were used to access the expression of tight junction proteins. Tandem mass tag (TMT)-Based proteomics and network pharmacology was launched to screen and predict the potential targets and pathway regulated by HGD. RESULTS Based on the UPLC-MS/MS analysis, 100 components were identified in HGD. After 7-day treatment, HGD significantly alleviated colitis-associated symptoms including body weight loss, shorted colon, increase of DAI score, histopathologic lesions. HGD also reduced inflammatory cytokines IL-6 and IL-1β levels, increased the number of goblet cells and restored tight junction proteins Occludin, Claudin-1 in colon. Network pharmacology study predicted that tight junction and MAPK pathway might be affected by HGD in colitis mice. APOC1 was screened out as key target in HGD-treated mice using TMT-based proteomics study. Further Western blot results showed that HGD reduced expressions of APOC1, p-P38 and p-JNK. CONCLUSION HGD improves general symptoms of colitis mice at medium and high doses, which may be associated with restoring tight junction and intestinal barrier integrity and function through suppression of APOC1-JNK/P38 MAPK signal pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue-Xian He
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510006, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Yan-Yang Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510006, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Ye-Qun Wu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510006, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Ling-Zhi Ren
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510006, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Yi Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510006, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Yu-Mei Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510006, Guangdong Province, China.
| | - Yang Yu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510006, Guangdong Province, China.
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Yuan Y, Wang F, Liu X, Shuai B, Fan H. The Role of AMPK Signaling in Ulcerative Colitis. Drug Des Devel Ther 2023; 17:3855-3875. [PMID: 38170149 PMCID: PMC10759424 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s442154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic non-specific inflammatory bowel disease characterized by inflammation and ulcer formation of the intestinal mucosa. Due to its high recurrence rate, prolonged course, limited curative options, and significant impact on patients' quality of life, along with a notable potential for malignant transformation, UC is designated as a refractory global health challenge by the World Health Organization (WHO). The elucidation of the pathogenesis and therapeutic strategies for UC requires further in-depth investigation. AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) serves as a central regulator of cellular energy metabolic homeostasis. Emerging evidence indicates that interventions involving traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) components, as well as other pharmacological measures, exert beneficial effects on the intestinal mucosal inflammation and epithelial barrier dysfunction in UC by modulating AMPK signaling, thereby influencing biological processes such as cellular autophagy, apoptosis, inflammatory responses, macrophage polarization, and NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis. The role of AMPK in UC is of significant importance. This manuscript provides a comprehensive overview of the mechanisms through which AMPK is involved in UC, as well as a compilation of pharmacological agents capable of activating the AMPK signaling pathway within the context of UC. The primary objective is to facilitate a deeper comprehension of the pivotal role of AMPK in UC among researchers and clinical practitioners, thereby advancing the identification of novel therapeutic targets for interventions in UC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuyi Yuan
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430022, People’s Republic of China
| | - Fang Wang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Jingshan Union Hospital, Union Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Jingshan, Hubei, 431800, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xingxing Liu
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430022, People’s Republic of China
| | - Bo Shuai
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430022, People’s Republic of China
| | - Heng Fan
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430022, People’s Republic of China
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Qiu J, Xiao G, Yang M, Huang X, Cai D, Xie C, Chen Z, Bi X, Xu A. Integrated network pharmacology and metabolomics reveal the mechanisms of Jasminum elongatum in anti-ulcerative colitis. Sci Rep 2023; 13:22449. [PMID: 38105335 PMCID: PMC10725889 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-49792-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Jasminum elongatum (JE), an ethnic Chinese medicine, is widely used in the Lingnan region of China, because of its analgesic and antidiarrheal action, as well as its anti-inflammatory effects in gastrointestinal diseases. However, whether JE could against ulcerative colitis (UC) remains unclear. This research aims to reveal JE in treating UC and clarify the underlying mechanism. We used the 2.5% dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced UC mice (C57BL/6J) to evaluate the therapeutic effects of JE. Metabolomics of serum and network pharmacology were combined to draw target-metabolite pathways. Apart from that, the targets of associated pathways were confirmed, and the mechanism of action was made clear, using immunohistochemistry. The pharmacodynamic results, including disease activity index (DAI), histological evaluation, and inflammatory cytokines in colon tissues, demonstrated that JE significantly relieved the physiological and pathological symptoms of UC. Network pharmacology analysis indicated 25 core targets, such as TNF, IL-6, PTGS2 and RELA, and four key pathways, including the NF-κB signaling pathway and arachidonic acid metabolism pathway, which were the key connections between JE and UC. Metabolomics analysis identified 45 endogenous differential metabolites and 9 metabolic pathways by enrichment, with the arachidonic acid metabolism pathway being the main metabolism pathway, consistent with the prediction of network pharmacology. IκB, p65 and COX-2 were identified as key targets and this study demonstrated for the first time that JE reverses 2.5% DSS-induced UC in mice via the IκB/p65/COX-2/arachidonic acid pathway. This study reveals the complex mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effects of JE on UC and provides a new approach to identifying the underlying mechanisms of the pharmacological action of Chinese natural medicines such as JE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinyan Qiu
- School of the Fifth Clinical Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510405, China
| | - Guanlin Xiao
- Guangdong Province Engineering Technology Research Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Research and Development in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510095, China
| | - Minjuan Yang
- School of the Fifth Clinical Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510405, China
| | - Xuejun Huang
- Guangdong Province Engineering Technology Research Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Research and Development in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510095, China
| | - Dake Cai
- Guangdong Province Engineering Technology Research Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Research and Development in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510095, China
| | - Canhui Xie
- School of the Fifth Clinical Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510405, China
| | - Zhao Chen
- Guangdong Province Engineering Technology Research Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Research and Development in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510095, China
| | - Xiaoli Bi
- School of the Fifth Clinical Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510405, China.
- Guangdong Province Engineering Technology Research Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Research and Development in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510095, China.
| | - Aili Xu
- School of the Fifth Clinical Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510405, China.
- Guangdong Province Engineering Technology Research Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Research and Development in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510095, China.
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Dong WR, Li YY, Liu TT, Zhou G, Chen YX. Ethyl acetate extract of Terminalia chebula alleviates DSS-induced ulcerative colitis in C57BL/6 mice. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1229772. [PMID: 38152693 PMCID: PMC10751924 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1229772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: The Chinese pharmacopeia records Terminalia chebula as effective in treating prolonged diarrhea and dysentery, blood in the stool, and prolapse. Modern pharmacological research proves it has multiple pharmacological benefits, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective, and other properties. Objectives: This study aims to clarify the role of Terminalia chebula's ethyl acetate extract (TCEA) on ulcerative colitis (UC) induced by dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) in mice, as well as explore the potential mechanism of action. Materials and methods: The variation of different extracts of T. chebula was detected using the HPLC technique, and the main components in TCEA were identified. DSS was used to establish a mouse model to mimic the physiological state of UC in humans; the alleviating effect of TCEA and positive control 5-ASA on UC mice were evaluated by gavage treatment. Disease progression was assessed by monitoring the mouse's weight change and disease activity index (DAI). The changes in colon tissue were estimated by measuring colon length, HE, and AB-PAS staining and detecting oxidative stress parameters. The results draw from Western blot and real-time PCR showed the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB pathway may involve in the anti-inflammatory activity of TCEA. Furthermore, the gut flora sequencing technique was employed to monitor the differentiation of intestinal microbiota of mice induced by DSS and TCEA treatment. Results: TCEA significantly lowered DAI scores and inhibited the weight loss and colonic shortening induced by DSS. The colon histomorphology and oxidative stress levels were enhanced after TCEA treatment compared with DSS induced UC group. TCEA attenuated the inflammatory response by regulating TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB pathway activation. Intestinal flora sequencing showed that DSS and TCEA greatly impacted mice's composition and diversity of intestinal microorganisms. But TCEA increased the abundance of Bacteroidetes and decreased the abundance of Firmicutes and Proteobacteria compared with the DSS group, which contributed a lot to returning the intestinal flora to a balanced state. Conclusion: This study confirms the alleviating effect of TCEA on UC and provides new ideas for developing TCEA into a new drug to treat UC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Yu-Xin Chen
- Key Laboratory of Fermentation Engineering (Ministry of Education), Cooperative Innovation Center of Industrial Fermentation (Ministry of Education and Hubei Province), School of Biological Engineering and Food, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, China
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Zhang J, Deng J, Wang N, Wang P, Li J, Wang Y, Cui W, Liang F, Chen P, Wang J, Han F, Chan CP, Lyu A, Bian Z, Zhang X. Quality of reporting of integrative Chinese and Western medicine intervention in randomized controlled trials of ulcerative colitis: a review. Syst Rev 2023; 12:228. [PMID: 38062492 PMCID: PMC10704853 DOI: 10.1186/s13643-023-02402-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Integrative Chinese and Western medicine (ICWM) is commonly used for the treatment of ulcerative colitis (UC) in clinical practice. However, it is unclear whether the details of ICWM interventions, such as selection rationale, implementation design, and potential interactions, were adequately reported. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the quality of reporting in the ICWM interventional randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of UC and to identify the common problems if any. METHODS Through a search of 10 international electronic databases, we identified RCTs of UC with ICWM interventions published in English or Chinese from the inception date of each database up to 16 June 2023. Literature screening was strictly conducted based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria of the Population, Concept, and Context (PCC) framework. The general characteristics of the included studies were described. The quality of reporting was assessed according to three checklists, including the CONSORT (Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials) with 36 items (except for one item 1b about abstract), the CONSORT for Abstracts (17 items), and a self-designed ICWM-related checklist (27 items covering design rationale, intervention details, outcome assessments, and analysis). The reporting scores of RCTs published before and after 2010 were compared. RESULTS A total of 1458 eligible RCTs were included. For the reporting compliance, the median score (interquartile ranges) of the CONSORT (72 score in total), the CONSORT for Abstract (34 score), and ICWM-related (54 score) items was 21 (18-25), 13 (12-15), and 18 (15-21), respectively. Although the time period comparisons showed that reporting quality of included publications improved significantly after the CONSORT 2010 issued (P < 0.01), more than 50% of items were evaluated as poor quality (reporting rate < 65%) among each checklist, especially in the CONSORT for Abstract and ICWM-specific items. CONCLUSION Although CONSORT appears to have enhanced the reporting of RCTs in UC, the quality of ICWM specifics is variable and in need of improvement. Reporting guidelines of the ICWM recommendations should be developed to improve their quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jialing Zhang
- Hong Kong Chinese Medicine Clinical Study Centre, Chinese EQUATOR Centre, School of Chinese Medicine, Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (Hong Kong), Hong Kong Baptist University, HKSAR, China
- Centre for Chinese Herbal Medicine Drug Development, Hong Kong Baptist University, HKSAR, China
| | - Jiashuai Deng
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Nana Wang
- Hong Kong Chinese Medicine Clinical Study Centre, Chinese EQUATOR Centre, School of Chinese Medicine, Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (Hong Kong), Hong Kong Baptist University, HKSAR, China
| | - Ping Wang
- China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Xiyuan Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Ji Li
- Department of Pediatrics, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Guang'anmen Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yunhai Wang
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Wanting Cui
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Feng Liang
- Hong Kong Chinese Medicine Clinical Study Centre, Chinese EQUATOR Centre, School of Chinese Medicine, Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (Hong Kong), Hong Kong Baptist University, HKSAR, China
| | - Peijin Chen
- Hong Kong Chinese Medicine Clinical Study Centre, Chinese EQUATOR Centre, School of Chinese Medicine, Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (Hong Kong), Hong Kong Baptist University, HKSAR, China
| | - Juan Wang
- Hong Kong Chinese Medicine Clinical Study Centre, Chinese EQUATOR Centre, School of Chinese Medicine, Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (Hong Kong), Hong Kong Baptist University, HKSAR, China
| | - Fei Han
- Department of Pediatrics, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Guang'anmen Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Chun Pong Chan
- Department of Computer Science, Faculty of Science, Hong Kong Baptist University, HKSAR, China
| | - Aiping Lyu
- Hong Kong Chinese Medicine Clinical Study Centre, Chinese EQUATOR Centre, School of Chinese Medicine, Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (Hong Kong), Hong Kong Baptist University, HKSAR, China
| | - Zhaoxiang Bian
- Hong Kong Chinese Medicine Clinical Study Centre, Chinese EQUATOR Centre, School of Chinese Medicine, Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (Hong Kong), Hong Kong Baptist University, HKSAR, China.
- Centre for Chinese Herbal Medicine Drug Development, Hong Kong Baptist University, HKSAR, China.
| | - Xuan Zhang
- Hong Kong Chinese Medicine Clinical Study Centre, Chinese EQUATOR Centre, School of Chinese Medicine, Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (Hong Kong), Hong Kong Baptist University, HKSAR, China.
- Centre for Chinese Herbal Medicine Drug Development, Hong Kong Baptist University, HKSAR, China.
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Li S, Cai X, Chen L, Lin M, Zhu Z, Xiao H, Nie P, Chen Q, Yang X. Inhibition of hepatocellular carcinoma growth via modulation of the miR-221/SOX11 axis by curcumin and berberine. PeerJ 2023; 11:e16593. [PMID: 38084140 PMCID: PMC10710771 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.16593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a fatal malignancy that has limited treatment options. This study focused on the potential therapeutic effects of curcumin (CUR) and berberine (BBR) on the miR-221/SRY-box transcription factor 11 (SOX11) axis in HCC. We investigated the combined effects of CUR and BBR on HEPG2 and Huh7 cell survival and miR-221 expression using Cell Counting Kit-8 assays and RT-qPCR, respectively. Western blotting was used to detect changes in the apoptosis-related caspase-3/9 protein levels. We performed bioinformatics analysis and dual-luciferase assays and measured apoptotic protein levels to assess the role of the miR-221/SOX11 axis in mediating the effects of CUR-BBR. Both CUR and BBR suppressed HCC cell growth in a dose-dependent manner, with the most potent combined effect observed at a 2:1 ratio. CUR-BBR treatment significantly downregulated miR-221 expression, and miR-221 overexpression partially reversed the CUR-BBR-mediated decrease in cell survival. In addition, SOX11 was found to be a direct target of miR-221. CUR-BBR treatment upregulated SOX11 expression, and overexpression of SOX11 restored the inhibitory effects of CUR-BBR on cell growth, migration, and invasion and promoted apoptosis in the presence of miR-221. Furthermore, CUR-BBR activated pro-apoptotic proteins caspase-3/9 through the miR-221/SOX11 axis. The combined effect of CUR-BBR played an important role in inhibiting the growth of HCC cells. This combined effect was achieved by regulating the miR-221/SOX11 axis and activating the synthesis of pro-apoptotic proteins. Our findings highlight a promising combined therapeutic approach for HCC and underscore the importance of targeting the miR-221/SOX11 axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng Li
- Department of Internal Medicine, Fuzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Xiaoliang Cai
- Department of Internal Medicine, Fuzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Liang Chen
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fuzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Manbian Lin
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fuzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Ziqi Zhu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fuzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Huihuang Xiao
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fuzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Pingping Nie
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fuzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Quanwen Chen
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fuzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyu Yang
- Fuzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
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Luo ZY, Hu YX, Qiu CW, Chen WC, Li L, Chen FL, Liu CS. Coptidis Rhizoma processed with Evodia Rutaecarpa improves the effect on ulcerative colitis by increasing intestinal energy metabolites alpha-ketoglutarate and Lactobacillus reuteri. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 121:155115. [PMID: 37801896 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2023.155115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evodia Rutaecarpa-processed Coptidis Rhizoma (ECR) is a traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of ulcerative colitis (UC) in China. However, the mechanisms underlying the ECR processing are not elucidated. PURPOSE Coptidis Rhizoma (CR) regulates the gut microbiota in the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases. This study explored the mechanism of action of ECR before and after processing in UC in view of the regulation of gut microecology. STUDY DESIGN A preclinical experimental investigation was performed using a mouse model of UC to examine the regulatory effect of ECR and its mechanisms through gut microbiota analysis and metabolomic assays. METHODS Mice received 4% dextran sulfate sodium to establish a UC model and treated with ECR and CR. Colonic histopathology and inflammatory changes were observed. Gut microbiota was analyzed using 16 s rRNA sequencing. Transplants of Lactobacillus reuteri were used to explore the correlation between ECR processing and the gut microbiota. The expression of mucin-2, Lgr5, and PCNA in colonic epithelial cells was measured using immunofluorescence. Wnt3a and β-catenin levels were detected by western blotting. The metabolites in the colon tissue were analyzed using a targeted energy metabolomic assay. The effect of energy metabolite α-ketoglutarate (α-KG) on L. reuteri growth and UC were verified in mice. RESULTS ECR improved the effects on UC in mice compared to CR, including alleviating colonic injury and inflammation, and modulating gut microbiota by increasing L. reuteri level. L. reuteri dose-dependently alleviated colonic injury, increased mucin-2 level, and promoted colonic epithelial regeneration by increasing Lgr5 and PCNA expression. This was consistent with the results before and after ECR processing. L. reuteri promoted epithelial regeneration by upregulating Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Moreover, ECR increased metabolites levels (especially α-KG) to promote energy metabolism in the colon tissue compared to CR. α-KG treatment increased L. reuteri level and alleviated mucosal damage in UC mice. It promoted L. reuteri growth by increasing the energy metabolic status by enhancing α-KG dehydrogenase activity. CONCLUSION ECR processing improves the therapeutic effects of UC via the α-KG-L. reuteri-epithelial regeneration axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen-Ye Luo
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Pharmaceutics, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China; Guangdong Provincial Engineering Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Preparation Technology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Yin-Xia Hu
- Department of Gastroenterology, General Hospital of Southern Theater Command of People's Liberation Army (PLA), Guangzhou 510010, China
| | - Chuan-Wei Qiu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Pharmaceutics, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China; Guangdong Provincial Engineering Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Preparation Technology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Wei-Cong Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Pharmaceutics, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China; Guangdong Provincial Engineering Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Preparation Technology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Li Li
- Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Fei-Long Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Pharmaceutics, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China; Guangdong Provincial Engineering Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Preparation Technology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Chang-Shun Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Pharmaceutics, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China; Guangdong Provincial Engineering Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Preparation Technology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China.
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Wang X, Fu L, Cheng W, Chen J, Zhang H, Zhu H, Zhang C, Fu C, Hu Y, Zhang J. Oral administration of Huanglian-Houpo herbal nanoemulsion loading multiple phytochemicals for ulcerative colitis therapy in mice. Drug Deliv 2023; 30:2204207. [PMID: 37139554 DOI: 10.1080/10717544.2023.2204207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Abstract
How to achieve stable co-delivery of multiple phytochemicals is a common problem. This study focuses on the development, optimization and characterization of Huanglian-HouPo extract nanoemulsion (HLHPEN), with multiple components co-delivery, to enhance the anti-ulcerative colitis (UC) effects. The formulation of HLHPEN was optimized by pseudo-ternary phase diagram combined with Box-Behnken design. The physicochemical properties of HLHPEN were characterized, and its anti-UC activity was evaluated in DSS-induced UC mice model. Based on preparation process optimization, the herbal nanoemulsion HLHPEN was obtained, with the droplet size, PDI value, encapsulation efficiency (EE) for 6 phytochemicals (berberine, epiberberine, coptisine, bamatine, magnolol and honokiol) of 65.21 ± 0.82 nm, 0.182 ± 0.016, and 90.71 ± 0.21%, respectively. The TEM morphology of HLHPEN shows the nearly spheroidal shape of particles. The optimized HLHPEN showed a brownish yellow milky single-phase and optimal physical stability at 25 °C for 90 days. HLHPEN exhibited the good particle stability and gradual release of phytochemicals in SGF and SIF, to resist the destruction of simulated stomach and small intestine environment. Importantly, the oral administration of HLHPEN significantly restored the shrunk colon tissue length and reduced body weight, ameliorated DAI value and colon histological pathology, decreased the levels of inflammatory factors in DSS-induced UC mice model. These results demonstrated that HLHPEN had a significant therapeutic effect on DSS-induced UC mice, as a potential alternative UC therapeutic agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Pharmacy School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Li Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Pharmacy School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Weijian Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Pharmacy School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Jiamei Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Pharmacy School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Huan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Pharmacy School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Huanjun Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Pharmacy School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Chen Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Pharmacy School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Chaomei Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Pharmacy School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Yichen Hu
- Key Laboratory of Coarse Cereal Processing of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Chengdu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jinming Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Pharmacy School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
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Yu P, Xu F, Wu H, Wang X, Ding Q, Zhang M, Fang R, Qin P. Anti-Ulcerative Colitis Effects and Active Ingredients in Ethyl Acetate Extract from Decoction of Sargentodoxa cuneata. Molecules 2023; 28:7663. [PMID: 38005385 PMCID: PMC10675221 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28227663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an intractable disease prevalent worldwide. While ethyl acetate extract from decoction of Sargentodoxa cuneata (EAdSc) has potential anti-inflammatory activity, its effects on UC remain unknown. In this study, the constituent compounds discussed in the literature and identified by gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (GC-MS) were collected, and the blood-soluble components of EAdSc were identified by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. The network pharmacology analysis and molecular docking analysis were performed to explore the potential underlying mechanism and active ingredients of EAdSc against UC. Furthermore, mice with dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced UC were used to study the therapeutic effects and validate the mechanism of EAdSc against UC. A total of 53 compounds from EAdSc were identified in the literature and by GC-MS, and 22 blood-soluble EAdSc components were recognized. Network pharmacology analysis revealed that multiple inflammatory signaling pathways are involved in EAdSc's anti-UC activity. Furthermore, molecular docking analysis showed that the eleutheroside A, liriodendrin, epicatechin, 2-methoxy-4-vinylphenol, catechin, androsin, coumaroyltyramine, and catechol may be active against UC through the TLR4/NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway. EAdSc reduced the disease activity, macroscopic colon damage, and histological damage indices, as well as inhibiting DSS-induced spleen enlargement and colon shortening. In addition, EAdSc decreased the levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and IL-17, as well as the expression of TLR4, NF-κB p65, NLRP3, and Caspase-1 mRNA in colon tissues. These results provide insights into the anti-UC effects and underlying mechanisms of EAdSc and help elucidate the active ingredients of EAdSc in the treatment of UC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piao Yu
- Department of Pharmacy, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang 550025, China; (P.Y.); (H.W.); (Q.D.); (M.Z.); (R.F.); (P.Q.)
| | - Feng Xu
- Department of Pharmacy, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang 550025, China; (P.Y.); (H.W.); (Q.D.); (M.Z.); (R.F.); (P.Q.)
| | - Hongmei Wu
- Department of Pharmacy, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang 550025, China; (P.Y.); (H.W.); (Q.D.); (M.Z.); (R.F.); (P.Q.)
| | - Xiangpei Wang
- School of Chinese Ethnic Medicine, Guizhou Minzu University, Guiyang 550025, China;
| | - Qin Ding
- Department of Pharmacy, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang 550025, China; (P.Y.); (H.W.); (Q.D.); (M.Z.); (R.F.); (P.Q.)
| | - Mei Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang 550025, China; (P.Y.); (H.W.); (Q.D.); (M.Z.); (R.F.); (P.Q.)
| | - Rongze Fang
- Department of Pharmacy, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang 550025, China; (P.Y.); (H.W.); (Q.D.); (M.Z.); (R.F.); (P.Q.)
| | - Ping Qin
- Department of Pharmacy, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang 550025, China; (P.Y.); (H.W.); (Q.D.); (M.Z.); (R.F.); (P.Q.)
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Li Z, Wen Q, Pi J, Zhang D, Nie J, Wei W, Li W, Guo DA. An inulin-type fructan isolated from Serratula chinensis alleviated the dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis in mice through regulation of intestinal barrier and gut microbiota. Carbohydr Polym 2023; 320:121206. [PMID: 37659809 DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2023.121206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/04/2023]
Abstract
Herein, we aimed to explore the polysaccharide material basis of Serratula chinensis and establish its beneficial effects against colitis. A neutral polysaccharide (SCP) was extracted from S. chinensis in high yield using hot water. The molecular weights were calculated by HPSEC as Mw = 2928 Da, Mn = 2634 Da, and Mw/Mn = 1.11. FT-IR and 1D/2D-NMR spectroscopic analyses confirmed that SCP was an inulin-type fructan with α-D-Glcp-(1 → [1)-β-D-Fruf-(2]17) linkages. Treatment with SCP (200 or 400 mg/kg) alleviated dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced mouse colitis symptoms, including the loss of body weight, increase of disease activity index score, and shortening of colon length. Histopathological and immunofluorescence assessments revealed that SCP could reduce pathological damage to the colon, restore the number of goblet cells, increase the content of glycoproteins in goblet cells and mucins in crypts, and enhance the expression of tight junction proteins ZO-1 and occludin. In addition, metagenomic sequencing revealed that SCP could improve the dysbiosis of gut microbiomes and act on multiple microbial functions. Moreover, SCP treatment increased the content of colonic acetic acid and butanoic acid. Collectively, these results indicated that SCP could alleviate the DSS-induced colitis in mice through regulation of intestinal barrier and gut microbiota.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenwei Li
- Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhongshan 528400, China
| | - Qiuyi Wen
- Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhongshan 528400, China; College of Pharmacy, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, China
| | - Jiaju Pi
- Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhongshan 528400, China
| | - Daidi Zhang
- Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhongshan 528400, China
| | - Jinchun Nie
- Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhongshan 528400, China
| | - Wenlong Wei
- Shanghai Research Center for Modernization of Traditional Chinese Medicine, National Engineering Research Center for TCM Standardization Technology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Wei Li
- Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhongshan 528400, China
| | - De-An Guo
- Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhongshan 528400, China; Shanghai Research Center for Modernization of Traditional Chinese Medicine, National Engineering Research Center for TCM Standardization Technology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.
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50
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Li C, Gong L, Jiang Y, Huo X, Huang L, Lei H, Gu Y, Wang D, Guo D, Deng Y. Sanguisorba officinalis ethyl acetate extract attenuates ulcerative colitis through inhibiting PI3K-AKT/NF-κB/ STAT3 pathway uncovered by single-cell RNA sequencing. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 120:155052. [PMID: 37717310 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2023.155052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ulcerative colitis (UC) accounts for the untreatable illness nowadays. Bloody stools are the primary symptom of UC, and the first-line drugs used to treat UC are associated with several drawbacks and negative side effects. S. officinalis has long been used as a medicine to treat intestinal infections and bloody stools. However, what the precise molecular mechanism, the exact etiology, and the material basis of the disease remain unclear. PURPOSE This work aimed to comprehensively explore pharmacological effects as well as molecular mechanisms underlying the active fraction of S. officinalis, and to produce a comprehensive and brand-new guideline map of its chemical base and mechanism of action. METHODS First, different polarity S. officinalis extracts were orally administered to the DSS-induced UC model mice for the sake of investigating its active constituents. Using the UPLC-orbitrap high-resolution mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-Orbitrap-HRMS) technique, the most active S. officinalis (S. officinalis ethyl acetate fraction, SOEA) extract was characterized. Subsequently, the effectiveness of its active fraction on UC was evaluated through phenotypic observation (such as weight loss, colon length, and stool characteristics), and histological examination of pathological injuries, mRNA and protein expression. Cell profile, cell-cell interactions and molecular mechanisms of SOEA in different cell types of the colon tissue from UC mice were described using single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq). As a final step, the molecular mechanisms were validated by appropriate molecular biological methods. RESULTS For the first time, this study revealed the significant efficacy of SOEA in the treatment of UC. SOEA reduced DAI and body weight loss, recovered the colon length, and mitigated colonic pathological injuries along with mucosal barrier by promoting goblet cell proliferation. Following treatment with SOEA, inflammatory factors showed decreased mRNA and protein expression. SOEA restored the dynamic equilibrium of cell profile and cell-cell interactions in colon tissue. All of these results were attributed to the ability of SOEA to inhibit the PI3K-AKT/NF-κB/STATAT pathway. CONCLUSIONS By integrating the chemical information of SOEA derived from UPLC-Q-Orbitrap-HRMS with single-cell transcriptomic data extracted from scRNA-seq, this study demonstrates that SOEA exerts the therapeutic effect through suppressing PI3K-AKT/NF-B/STAT3 pathway to improve clinical symptoms, inflammatory response, mucosal barrier, and intercellular interactions in UC, and effectively eliminates the interference of cellular heterogeneity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Congcong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resource, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Leiqiang Gong
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resource, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Yu Jiang
- Department of Nursing, Sichuan Nursing Vocational College, Deyang 618000, China
| | - Xueyan Huo
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resource, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Lijun Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resource, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Haoran Lei
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resource, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Yucheng Gu
- Syngenta Limited, Jealott's Hill International Research Centre, Berkshire RG42 6EY, UK
| | - Dong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resource, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China.
| | - Dale Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resource, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China.
| | - Yun Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resource, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China.
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