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Ito H, Ito M. Recent trends in ginseng research. J Nat Med 2024; 78:455-466. [PMID: 38512649 DOI: 10.1007/s11418-024-01792-4] [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: 01/28/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Ginseng, the dried root of Panax ginseng, contains ginsenosides and has long been used in Korea, China, and Japan to treat various symptoms. Many studies on the utility of ginseng have been conducted and in this paper we investigate recent trends in ginseng research. P. ginseng studies were collected from scientific databases (PubMed, Web of Science, and SciFindern) using the keywords "Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer", "ginsenosides", "genetic diversity", "biosynthesis", "cultivation", and "pharmacology". We identified 1208 studies up to and including September 2023: 549 studies on pharmacology, 262 studies on chemical components, 131 studies on molecular biology, 58 studies on cultivation, 71 studies on tissue culture, 28 studies on clinical trials, 123 reviews, and 49 studies in other fields. Many researchers focused on the characteristic ginseng component ginsenoside to elucidate the mechanism of ginseng's pharmacological action, the relationship between component patterns and cultivation areas and conditions, and gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Honoka Ito
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyoto University, 46-29 Yoshida-Shimo-Adachi-Cho, Sakyo-Ku, Kyoto, 606-8501, Japan
| | - Michiho Ito
- National Institute of Health Sciences, 3-25-26 Tonomachi, Kawasaki-Ku, Kawasaki City, Kanagawa, 210-9501, Japan.
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Yang F, Zhang K, Dai X, Jiang W. Preliminary Exploration of Potential Active Ingredients and Molecular Mechanisms of Yanggan Yishui Granules for Treating Hypertensive Nephropathy Using UPLC-Q-TOF/MS Coupled with Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking Strategy. JOURNAL OF ANALYTICAL METHODS IN CHEMISTRY 2024; 2024:7967999. [PMID: 38766523 PMCID: PMC11101260 DOI: 10.1155/2024/7967999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Hypertensive nephropathy (HN) is a prevalent complication of hypertension and stands as the second primary reason for end-stage renal disease. Research in clinical settings has revealed that Yanggan Yishui Granule (YGYSG) has significant therapeutic effects on HN. However, the material basis and action mechanisms of YGYSG against HN remain unclear. Consequently, this study utilized a comprehensive method integrating ultraperformance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF/MS), network pharmacology, and molecular docking to delineate the active ingredients and potential therapeutic mechanisms of YGYSG for treating HN. Firstly, sixty distinct components were recognized in total as potential active ingredients in YGYSG by UPLC-Q-TOF/MS. Subsequently, the mechanisms of YGYSG against HN were revealed for the first time using network pharmacology. 23 ingredients played key roles in the complete network and were the key active ingredients, which could affect the renin-angiotensin system, fluid shear stress and atherosclerosis, HIF-1 signaling pathway, and AGE-RAGE signaling pathway in diabetic complications by regulating 29 key targets such as TNF, IL6, ALB, EGFR, ACE, and MMP2. YGYSG could treat HN through the suppression of inflammatory response and oxidative stress, attenuating the proliferation of renal vascular smooth muscle cells, lessening glomerular capillary systolic pressure, and ameliorating renal dysfunction and vascular damage through the aforementioned targets and pathways. Molecular docking results revealed that most key active ingredients exhibited a high affinity for binding to the key targets. This study pioneers in clarifying the bioactive compounds and molecular mechanisms of YGYSG against HN and offers scientific reference into the clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Yang
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, China
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui 230000, China
| | - Kailun Zhang
- College of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui 230000, China
| | - Xiaohua Dai
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui 230000, China
| | - Weimin Jiang
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, China
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Balasubramaniam M, Sapuan S, Hashim IF, Ismail NI, Yaakop AS, Kamaruzaman NA, Ahmad Mokhtar AM. The properties and mechanism of action of plant immunomodulators in regulation of immune response - A narrative review focusing on Curcuma longa L. , Panax ginseng C. A. Meyer and Moringa oleifera Lam. Heliyon 2024; 10:e28261. [PMID: 38586374 PMCID: PMC10998053 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e28261] [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: 08/19/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Herbal treatments have been utilized for millennia to cure a variety of ailments. There are over 20, 000 herbal remedies available to treat cancer and other disease in humans. In Ayurveda, traditional plants having revitalizing and nourishing characteristics are known as "Rasayanas." They have anti-inflammatory, anticancer, anti-microbicidal, antiviral, and immunomodulatory effects on the immune system. Immunomodulation is a mechanism through which the body stimulates, suppresses, or boosts the immune system to maintain homeostasis. Plant-derived immunomodulators are typically phytocompounds, including carbohydrates, phenolics, lipids, alkaloids, terpenoids, organosulfur, and nitrogen-containing chemicals. Immunomodulation activity of phytocompounds from traditional plants is primarily mediated through macrophage activation, phagocytosis stimulation, peritoneal macrophage stimulation, lymphoid cell stimulation, and suppression or enhancement of specific and non-specific cellular immune systems via numerous signalling pathways. Despite extensive research, the precise mechanism of immunomodulation of most traditional plants has not yet been fully elucidated, justifying the need for further experimentation. Therefore, this review describes the immunomodulatory agents from traditional plants such as Curcuma longa L., Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer, and Moringa oleifera Lam, further highlighting the common molecular targets and immunomodulatory mechanism involved in eradicating diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muggunna Balasubramaniam
- Small G protein Research Group, Bioprocess Technology Division, School of Industrial Technology, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800 Gelugor, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Sarah Sapuan
- Department of Toxicology, Advanced Medical and Dental Institute, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 13200 Kepala Batas, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Ilie Fadzilah Hashim
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Advanced Medical and Dental Institute, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 13200 Kepala Batas, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Nurul Izza Ismail
- School of Biological Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800 Gelugor, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Amira Suriaty Yaakop
- School of Biological Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800 Gelugor, Penang, Malaysia
| | | | - Ana Masara Ahmad Mokhtar
- Small G protein Research Group, Bioprocess Technology Division, School of Industrial Technology, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800 Gelugor, Penang, Malaysia
- Green Biopolymer Coating and Packaging Centre, School of Industrial Technology, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800 Gelugor, Penang, Malaysia
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Wijesekara T, Luo J, Xu B. Critical review on anti-inflammation effects of saponins and their molecular mechanisms. Phytother Res 2024; 38:2007-2022. [PMID: 38372176 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.8164] [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: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
This review highlights the increasing interest in one of the natural compounds called saponins, for their potential therapeutic applications in addressing inflammation which is a key factor in various chronic diseases. It delves into the molecular mechanisms responsible for the anti-inflammatory effects of these amphiphilic compounds, prevalent in plant-based foods and marine organisms. Their structures vary with soap-like properties influencing historical uses in traditional medicine and sparking renewed scientific interest. Recent research focuses on their potential in chronic inflammatory diseases, unveiling molecular actions such as NF-κB and MAPK pathway regulation and COX/LOX enzyme inhibition. Saponin-containing sources like Panax ginseng and soybeans suggest novel anti-inflammatory therapies. The review explores their emerging role in shaping the gut microbiome, influencing composition and activity, and contributing to anti-inflammatory effects. Specific examples, such as Panax notoginseng and Gynostemma pentaphyllum, illustrate the intricate relationship between saponins, the gut microbiome, and their collective impact on immune regulation and metabolic health. Despite promising findings, the review emphasizes the need for further research to comprehend the mechanisms behind anti-inflammatory effects and their interactions with the gut microbiome, underscoring the crucial role of a balanced gut microbiome for optimal health and positioning saponins as potential dietary interventions for managing chronic inflammatory conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tharuka Wijesekara
- Food Science and Technology Program, Department of Life Sciences, BNU-HKBU United International College, Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
- Department of Food Science and Technology, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
| | - Jinhai Luo
- Food Science and Technology Program, Department of Life Sciences, BNU-HKBU United International College, Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Baojun Xu
- Food Science and Technology Program, Department of Life Sciences, BNU-HKBU United International College, Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
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Fang S, Zhang B, Xiang W, Zheng L, Wang X, Li S, Zhang T, Feng D, Gong Y, Wu J, Yuan J, Wu Y, Zhu Y, Liu E, Ni Z. Natural products in osteoarthritis treatment: bridging basic research to clinical applications. Chin Med 2024; 19:25. [PMID: 38360724 PMCID: PMC10870578 DOI: 10.1186/s13020-024-00899-w] [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: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most prevalent degenerative musculoskeletal disease, severely impacting the function of patients and potentially leading to disability, especially among the elderly population. Natural products (NPs), obtained from components or metabolites of plants, animals, microorganisms etc., have gained significant attention as important conservative treatments for various diseases. Recently, NPs have been well studied in preclinical and clinical researches, showing promising potential in the treatment of OA. In this review, we summed up the main signaling pathways affected by NPs in OA treatment, including NF-κB, MAPKs, PI3K/AKT, SIRT1, and other pathways, which are related to inflammation, anabolism and catabolism, and cell death. In addition, we described the therapeutic effects of NPs in different OA animal models and the current clinical studies in OA patients. At last, we discussed the potential research directions including in-depth analysis of the mechanisms and new application strategies of NPs for the OA treatment, so as to promote the basic research and clinical transformation in the future. We hope that this review may allow us to get a better understanding about the potential bioeffects and mechanisms of NPs in OA therapy, and ultimately improve the effectiveness of NPs-based clinical conservative treatment for OA patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shunzheng Fang
- School of Pharmacy, Medicinal Basic Research Innovation Center of Chronic Kidney Disease, Ministry of Education, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, China
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400022, China
| | - Bin Zhang
- Department of Wound Repair and Rehabilitation Medicine, Center of Bone Metabolism and Repair, Laboratory for Prevention and Rehabilitation of Training Injuries, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Trauma Center, Research Institute of Surgery, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400022, China
- Rehabilitation Center, Key Specialty of Neck and Low Back Pain Rehabilitation, Strategic Support Force Xingcheng Special Duty Sanatorium, Liaoning, 125100, China
| | - Wei Xiang
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400022, China
| | - Liujie Zheng
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The Fourth Hospital of Wuhan, Wuhan, 430000, Hubei, China
| | - Xiaodong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400022, China
| | - Song Li
- Department of Wound Repair and Rehabilitation Medicine, Center of Bone Metabolism and Repair, Laboratory for Prevention and Rehabilitation of Training Injuries, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Trauma Center, Research Institute of Surgery, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400022, China
| | - Tongyi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400022, China
| | - Daibo Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400022, China
| | - Yunquan Gong
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400022, China
| | - Jinhui Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400022, China
| | - Jing Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400022, China
| | - Yaran Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400022, China
| | - Yizhen Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400022, China
| | - Enli Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Medicinal Basic Research Innovation Center of Chronic Kidney Disease, Ministry of Education, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, China.
| | - Zhenhong Ni
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400022, 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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Li CJ, Zhai RR, Zhu XY, Guo ZF, Yang H. Discovery of effective combination from Renshen-Fuzi herbal pair against heart failure by spectrum-effect relationship analysis and zebrafish models. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 317:116832. [PMID: 37352946 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116832] [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: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Traditional herbal pair Ginseng Radix et Rhizoma (roots and rhizomes of Panax ginseng C.A. Mey, Renshen in Chinese) and Aconiti Lateralis Radix Praeparata (lateral roots of Aconitum carmichaelii Debeaux, Fuzi in Chinese), composition of two traditional Chinese medicinal herbs, has been widely used in traditional Chinese medicine formula, in which Shenfu decoction has been used clinically in China for the treatment of heart failure at present. AIM OF THE STUDY Although the ginsenosides and aconite alkaloids have been proven as the essential bioactive components in Renshen-Fuzi herbal pair, the exact composition of effective components to combat heart failure are still unclear. Therefore, spectrum-effect relationship analysis was performed to reveal its effective combination for anti-heart failure effect. MATERIALS AND METHODS Firstly, the chemical constituents of Renshen-Fuzi herbal pair were identified using ultra high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-QTOF MS). The 39 major compounds in Renshen-Fuzi with five different compatibility ratios were simultaneously quantified using ultra high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with triple quadrupole tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-QQQ MS/MS). Subsequently, zebrafish models induced by verapamil hydrochloride were constructed and four heart failure-related indexes were selected for pharmacodynamic evaluation of Renshen-Fuzi. To analyze the spectrum-effect relationships, partial least squares regression (PLSR) models were established among the contents of 39 compounds in Renshen-Fuzi with each pharmacodynamic index. According to the contribution of each compound to the whole efficacy, 12 compounds were finally screened out as the effective combination. RESULTS A total of 157 chemical compounds of Renshen-Fuzi herbal pair were identified, in which 39 components were simultaneously determined. The pharmacological effects indicated that Renshen-Fuzi with 1:2 ratio exhibited the best effect based on zebrafish model, which could improve cardiac output and blood flow velocity and inhibit pericardial enlargement and venous blood stasis significantly. A combination of 9 ginsenosides and 3 aconite alkaloids based on a component-efficacy modeling by PLSR was screened, and exerted approximately equivalent pharmacological effects compared with Renshen-Fuzi herbal pair. CONCLUSIONS Our findings elucidated the effective combination of Renshen-Fuzi herbal pair that has been used in clinic for the treatment of heart failure, which could also promote the pharmacological research and quality control of their formula such as Shenfu decoction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chu-Jun Li
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Rong-Rong Zhai
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Xiao-Yu Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Zi-Fan Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Hua Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
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Xu H, Miao H, Chen G, Zhang G, Hua Y, Wu Y, Xu T, Han X, Hu C, Pang M, Tan L, Liu B, Zhou Y. 20(S)-ginsenoside Rg3 exerts anti-fibrotic effect after myocardial infarction by alleviation of fibroblasts proliferation and collagen deposition through TGFBR1 signaling pathways. J Ginseng Res 2023; 47:743-754. [PMID: 38107395 PMCID: PMC10721484 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgr.2023.06.007] [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: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Myocardial fibrosis post-myocardial infarction (MI) can induce maladaptive cardiac remodeling as well as heart failure. Although 20(S)-ginsenoside Rg3 (Rg3) has been applied to cardiovascular diseases, its efficacy and specific molecular mechanism in myocardial fibrosis are largely unknown. Herein, we aimed to explore whether TGFBR1 signaling was involved in Rg3's anti-fibrotic effect post-MI. Methods Left anterior descending (LAD) coronary artery ligation-induced MI mice and TGF-β1-stimulated primary cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) were adopted. Echocardiography, hematoxlin-eosin and Masson staining, Western-blot and immunohistochemistry, CCK8 and Edu were used to study the effects of Rg3 on myocardial fibrosis and TGFBR1 signaling. The combination mechanism of Rg3 and TGFBR1 was explored by surface plasmon resonance imaging (SPRi). Moreover, myocardial Tgfbr1-deficient mice and TGFBR1 adenovirus were adopted to confirm the pharmacological mechanism of Rg3. Results In vivo experiments, Rg3 ameliorated myocardial fibrosis and hypertrophy and enhanced cardiac function. Rg3-TGFBR1 had the 1.78 × 10-7 M equilibrium dissociation constant based on SPRi analysis, and Rg3 inhibited the activation of TGFBR1/Smads signaling dose-dependently. Cardiac-specific Tgfbr1 knockdown abolished Rg3's protection against myocardial fibrosis post-MI. In addition, Rg3 down-regulated the TGF-β1-mediated CFs growth together with collagen production in vitro through TGFBR1 signaling. Moreover, TGFBR1 adenovirus partially blocked the inhibitory effect of Rg3. Conclusion Rg3 improves myocardial fibrosis and cardiac function through suppressing CFs proliferation along with collagen deposition by inactivation of TGFBR1 pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Honglin Xu
- Department of Geratology, Affiliated Dongguan Hospital, Southern Medical University (Dongguan People's Hospital), Dongguan, China
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanfang Hospital (ZengCheng Branch), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Haifeng Miao
- Department of Geratology, Affiliated Dongguan Hospital, Southern Medical University (Dongguan People's Hospital), Dongguan, China
| | - Guanghong Chen
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanfang Hospital (ZengCheng Branch), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guoyong Zhang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanfang Hospital (ZengCheng Branch), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yue Hua
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanfang Hospital (ZengCheng Branch), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuting Wu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanfang Hospital (ZengCheng Branch), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tong Xu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanfang Hospital (ZengCheng Branch), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xin Han
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanfang Hospital (ZengCheng Branch), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Changlei Hu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanfang Hospital (ZengCheng Branch), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Mingjie Pang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanfang Hospital (ZengCheng Branch), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Leyi Tan
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bin Liu
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yingchun Zhou
- Department of Geratology, Affiliated Dongguan Hospital, Southern Medical University (Dongguan People's Hospital), Dongguan, China
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanfang Hospital (ZengCheng Branch), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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9
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Wang L, Zhang Y, Song Z, Liu Q, Fan D, Song X. Ginsenosides: a potential natural medicine to protect the lungs from lung cancer and inflammatory lung disease. Food Funct 2023; 14:9137-9166. [PMID: 37801293 DOI: 10.1039/d3fo02482b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
Lung cancer is the malignancy with the highest morbidity and mortality. Additionally, pulmonary inflammatory diseases, such as pneumonia, acute lung injury, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and pulmonary fibrosis (PF), also have high mortality rates and can promote the development and progression of lung cancer. Unfortunately, available treatments for them are limited, so it is critical to search for effective drugs and treatment strategies to protect the lungs. Ginsenosides, the main active components of ginseng, have been shown to have anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory activities. In this paper, we focus on the beneficial effects of ginsenosides on lung diseases and their molecular mechanisms. Firstly, the molecular mechanism of ginsenosides against lung cancer was summarized in detail, mainly from the points of view of proliferation, apoptosis, autophagy, angiogenesis, metastasis, drug resistance and immunity. In in vivo and in vitro lung cancer models, ginsenosides Rg3, Rh2 and CK were reported to have strong anti-lung cancer effects. Then, in the models of pneumonia and acute lung injury, the protective effect of Rb1 was particularly remarkable, followed by Rg3 and Rg1, and its molecular mechanism was mainly associated with targeting NF-κB, Nrf2, MAPK and PI3K/Akt pathways to alleviate inflammation, oxidative stress and apoptosis. Additionally, ginsenosides may also have a potential health-promoting effect in the improvement of COPD, asthma and PF. Furthermore, to overcome the low bioavailability of CK and Rh2, the development of nanoparticles, micelles, liposomes and other nanomedicine delivery systems can significantly improve the efficacy of targeted lung cancer treatment. To conclude, ginsenosides can be used as both anti-lung cancer and lung protective agents or adjuvants and have great potential for future clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lina Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Northwest University, 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, 710069, China.
| | - Yanxin Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Northwest University, 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, 710069, China.
| | - Zhimin Song
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Northwest University, 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, 710069, China.
| | - Qingchao Liu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Northwest University, 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, 710069, China.
| | - Daidi Fan
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Degradable Biomedical Materials, School of Chemical Engineering, Northwest University, 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an 710069, China.
- Shaanxi R&D Center of Biomaterials and Fermentation Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering, Northwest University, 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an 710069, China
- Biotechnology & Biomedicine Research Institute, Northwest University, 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an 710069, China
| | - Xiaoping Song
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Northwest University, 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, 710069, China.
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10
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Chen J, Huang L, Liao X. Protective effects of ginseng and ginsenosides in the development of osteoarthritis (Review). Exp Ther Med 2023; 26:465. [PMID: 37664679 PMCID: PMC10468808 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2023.12164] [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: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic inflammatory joint disease. Traditional chinese medicine provides a resource for drug screening for OA treatment. Ginseng and the associated bioactive compound, ginsenosides, may reduce inflammation, which is considered a risk factor for the development of OA. Specifically, ginsenosides may exhibit anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative stress activities, and inhibit extracellular matrix degradation by suppressing the NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways. Notably, specific ginsenosides, such as compound K and Rk1, may physically interact with IκB kinase and inhibit the associated phosphorylation. Thus, ginsenosides exhibit potential as therapeutic candidates in the management of OA. However, the low water solubility limits the clinical applications of ginsenosides. Numerous effective strategies have been explored to improve bioavailability; however, further investigations are still required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jincai Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi 341000, P.R. China
| | - Lin Huang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ganzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ganzhou, Jiangxi 341000, P.R. China
| | - Xiaofei Liao
- Department of Pharmacy, Ganzhou People's Hospital, Ganzhou, Jiangxi 341000, P.R. China
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11
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Cheng-yuan W, Jian-gang D. Research progress on the prevention and treatment of hyperuricemia by medicinal and edible plants and its bioactive components. Front Nutr 2023; 10:1186161. [PMID: 37377486 PMCID: PMC10291132 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2023.1186161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Hyperuricemia is another common metabolic disease, which is considered to be closely related to the development of many chronic diseases, in addition to the "three highs." Currently, although drugs show positive therapeutic effects, they have been shown to produce side effects that can damage the body. There is growing evidence that medicinal and edible plants and their bioactive components have a significant effect on hyperuricemia. In this paper, we review common medicinal and edible plants with uric acid-lowering effects and summarize the uric acid-lowering mechanisms of different bioactive components. Specifically, the bioactive components are divided into five categories: flavonoids, phenolic acids, alkaloids, polysaccharides, and saponins. These active substances exhibit positive uric acid-lowering effects by inhibiting uric acid production, promoting uric acid excretion, and improving inflammation. Overall, this review examines the potential role of medicinal and edible plants and their bioactive components as a means of combating hyperuricemia, with the hope of providing some reference value for the treatment of hyperuricemia.
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Hu L, Luo J, Wen G, Sun L, Liu W, Hu H, Li J, Wang L, Su W, Lin L. Identification of the active compounds in the Yi-Fei-San-Jie formula using a comprehensive strategy based on cell extraction/UPLC-MS/MS, network pharmacology, and molecular biology techniques. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 115:154843. [PMID: 37149966 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2023.154843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chinese herbal formulae has multiple active constituents and targets, and the good clinical response is encouraging more scientists to explore the bio-active ingredients in such complex systems. Yi-Fei-San-Jie formula (YFSJF) is commonly used to treat patients with lung cancer in South China; however, its bio-active ingredients remain unknown. PURPOSE We investigated the bio-active ingredients of the YFSJF using a novel comprehensive strategy. METHODS A549 cell extraction coupled with ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) was used for the screening of potential bio-active ingredients. Network pharmacology approach and molecular dynamics simulation were performed for the screening of targets. Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) assay and molecular biology techniques were used to verify the targets. RESULTS Nine A549 cell membrane-binding compounds were identified through cell extraction/UPLC-MS/MS. Five compounds, namely ginsenoside Ro, ginsenoside Rb1, ginsenoside Rc, peimisine, and peimine were cytotoxic to A549 cells, and they were considered the bio-active ingredients of the YFSJF in vitro. Network pharmacology analysis revealed that TGFBR2 is the key target and the TGFβ pathway is the key pathway targeted by YFSJF in non-small cell lung cancer. Peimisine showed an affinity to TGFBR2 using molecular docking and dynamic stimulation, which was confirmed using surface plasmon resonance spectroscopy. The molecular biology-based analysis further confirmed that peimisine targets TGFBR2 and can reverse A549 epithelial-mesenchymal transition by inhibiting the TGFβ pathway. CONCLUSION Taken together, cell extraction/UPLC-MS/MS, network pharmacology, and molecular biology-based analysis comprise a feasible strategy to explore active ingredients in YFSJF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leihao Hu
- School of the First Clinical Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, China; Oncology Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510402, China
| | - Jiamin Luo
- School of the First Clinical Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, China
| | - Guiqing Wen
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, China
| | - Lingling Sun
- Oncology Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510402, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Lingnan Medical Research Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, China
| | - Hao Hu
- Oncology Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510402, China
| | - Jing Li
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410000, China
| | - Lisheng Wang
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, China.
| | - Weiwei Su
- Guangdong Engineering & Technology Research Center for Quality and Efficacy Reevaluation of Post-Market Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Plant Resources, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510275, China.
| | - Lizhu Lin
- Oncology Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510402, China.
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Song J, Lee Y. Protective role of Ginseng in endomertriosis during covid-19. J Ginseng Res 2023; 47:169-172. [PMID: 35971392 PMCID: PMC9365513 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgr.2022.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID) pandemic began in December 2019. Many countries have implemented restrictions such as mandatory mask wearing and social distancing. These measures have caused diverse and complex health problems, particularly in women's health, anxiety, and depression. This review examines an alternative approach to the treatment of endometriosis during the COVID pandemic. The efficacy of ginseng with anti-inflammatory activity and ability to relieve or prevent symptoms of endometriosis is discussed and reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - YoungJoo Lee
- Corresponding author. Department of Integrative Bioscience and Biotechnology, College of Life Science, Sejong University, Kwangjingu, Seoul, 05006, Republic of Korea
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Cai M, Xu YC, Deng B, Chen JB, Chen TF, Zeng KF, Chen S, Deng SH, Tan ZB, Ding WJ, Zhang SW, Liu B, Zhang JZ. Radix Glycyrrhizae extract and licochalcone a exert an anti-inflammatory action by direct suppression of toll like receptor 4. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 302:115869. [PMID: 36309116 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2022.115869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Radix Glycyrrhizae (GL), a herbal medicine that is widely available, has shown advantages for a variety of inflammatory diseases. Toll like receptor 4 (TLR4) pathway has been shown to play a key role in the progression of inflammation. AIM OF THE STUDY The purpose of this study was to investigate the involvement of TLR4 in the anti-inflammatory mechanism of GL extract and its active constituent on acute lung injury (ALI). MATERIALS AND METHODS A model of inflammation produced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was established in C57BL/6 mice and macrophages derived from THP-1. To screen the active components of GL, molecular docking was used. Molecular dynamics and surface plasmon resonance imaging (SPRi) were used to study the interaction of a specific drug with the TLR4-MD2 complex. TLR4 was overexpressed by adenovirus to confirm TLR4 involvement in the anti-inflammatory activities of GL and the chosen chemical. RESULTS We observed that GL extract significantly reduced both LPS-induced ALI and the production of pro-inflammatory factors including TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β. Additionally, GL inhibited the binding of Alexa 488-labeled LPS (LPS-488) to the membrane of THP-1 derived macrophages. GL drastically reduce on the expression of TLR4 and the activation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and nuclear factor-B (NF-κB). Furthermore, molecular docking revealed that Licochalcone A (LicoA) docked into the LPS binding site of TLR4-MD2 complex. MD2-LicoA binding conformation was found to be stable using molecular dynamic simulations. SPRi indicated that LicoA bound to TLR4-MD2 recombinant protein with a KD of 3.87 × 10-7 M. LicoA dose-dependently reduced LPS-488 binding to the cell membrane. LicoA was found to significantly inhibit LPS-induced lung damage and inflammation. Furthermore, LicoA inhibited TLR4 expression, MAPK and NF-κB activation in a dose-dependent manner. The inhibitory effects of GL and LicoA on LPS-induced inflammation and TLR4 signaling activation were partly eliminated by TLR4 overexpression. CONCLUSION Our findings imply that GL and LicoA exert inhibitory effects on inflammation by targeting the TLR4 directly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Cai
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Institute of Integration of Traditional and Western Medicine of Guangzhou Medical University, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, China; Guangzhou Emergency Medical Command Center, Guangzhou, 510030, China.
| | - You-Cai Xu
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Institute of Integration of Traditional and Western Medicine of Guangzhou Medical University, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, China.
| | - Bo Deng
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Institute of Integration of Traditional and Western Medicine of Guangzhou Medical University, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, China.
| | - Jun-Bang Chen
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Institute of Integration of Traditional and Western Medicine of Guangzhou Medical University, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, China.
| | - Ting-Fang Chen
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Institute of Integration of Traditional and Western Medicine of Guangzhou Medical University, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, China.
| | - Ke-Feng Zeng
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Institute of Integration of Traditional and Western Medicine of Guangzhou Medical University, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, China.
| | - Si Chen
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Institute of Integration of Traditional and Western Medicine of Guangzhou Medical University, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, China.
| | - Sui-Hui Deng
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Institute of Integration of Traditional and Western Medicine of Guangzhou Medical University, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, China.
| | - Zhang-Bin Tan
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Institute of Integration of Traditional and Western Medicine of Guangzhou Medical University, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, China.
| | - Wen-Jun Ding
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Institute of Integration of Traditional and Western Medicine of Guangzhou Medical University, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, China.
| | - Shuang-Wei Zhang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Institute of Integration of Traditional and Western Medicine of Guangzhou Medical University, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, China.
| | - Bin Liu
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Institute of Integration of Traditional and Western Medicine of Guangzhou Medical University, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, China.
| | - Jing-Zhi Zhang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Institute of Integration of Traditional and Western Medicine of Guangzhou Medical University, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, China.
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Mieres-Castro D, Mora-Poblete F. Saponins: Research Progress and Their Potential Role in the Post-COVID-19 Pandemic Era. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15020348. [PMID: 36839670 PMCID: PMC9964560 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15020348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
In the post-COVID-19 pandemic era, the new global situation and the limited therapeutic management of the disease make it necessary to take urgent measures in more effective therapies and drug development in order to counteract the negative global impacts caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and its new infectious variants. In this context, plant-derived saponins-glycoside-type compounds constituted from a triterpene or steroidal aglycone and one or more sugar residues-may offer fewer side effects and promising beneficial pharmacological activities. This can then be used for the development of potential therapeutic agents against COVID-19, either as a therapy or as a complement to conventional pharmacological strategies for the treatment of the disease and its prevention. The main objective of this review was to examine the primary and current evidence in regard to the therapeutic potential of plant-derived saponins against the COVID-19 disease. Further, the aim was to also focus on those studies that highlight the potential use of saponins as a treatment against SARS-CoV-2. Saponins are antiviral agents that inhibit different pharmacological targets of the virus, as well as exhibit anti-inflammatory and antithrombotic activity in relieving symptoms and clinical complications related to the disease. In addition, saponins also possess immunostimulatory effects, which improve the efficacy and safety of vaccines for prolonging immunogenicity against SARS-CoV-2 and its infectious variants.
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Cho YK, Kim JE, Lee J. Korean Red Ginseng slows coreceptor switch in HIV-1 infected patients. J Ginseng Res 2023; 47:117-122. [PMID: 36644395 PMCID: PMC9834003 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgr.2022.06.003] [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: 05/23/2022] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) that binds to the coreceptor CCR5 (R5 viruses) can evolve into viruses that bind to the coreceptor CXCR4 (X4 viruses), with high viral replication rates governing this coreceptor switch. Korean Red Ginseng (KRG) treatment of HIV-1 infected patients has been found to slow the depletion of CD4+ T cells. This study assessed whether the KRG-associated slow depletion of CD4+ T cells was associated with coreceptor switching. Methods This study included 146 HIV-1-infected patients naïve to antiretroviral therapy (ART) and seven patients receiving ART. A total of 540 blood samples were obtained from these patients over 122 ± 129 months. Their env genes were amplified by nested PCR or RT-PCR and subjected to direct sequencing. Tropism was determined with a 10% false positive rate (FPR) cutoff. Results Of the 146 patients naïve to ART, 102 were KRG-naïve, and 44 had been treated with KRG. Evaluation of initial samples showed that coreceptor switch had occurred in 19 patients, later occurring in 38 additional patients. There was a significant correlation between the amount of KRG and FPR. Based on initial samples, the R5 maintenance period was extended 2.35-fold, with the coreceptor switch being delayed 2.42-fold in KRG-treated compared with KRG-naïve patients. The coreceptor switch occurred in 85% of a homogeneous cohort. The proportion of patients who maintained R5 for ≥10 years was significantly higher in long-term slow progressors than in typical progressors. Conclusion KRG therapy extends R5 maintenance period by increasing FPR, thereby slowing the coreceptor switch.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young-Keol Cho
- Corresponding author. Department of Microbiology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, 88 Olympic-ro 43-gil, Songpa-gu, Seoul, 05505, Republic of Korea.
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Ginsenoside Rk3 Inhibits the Extramedullary Infiltration of Acute Monocytic Leukemia Cell via miR-3677-5p/CXCL12 Axis. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2022; 2022:3065464. [PMID: 36569343 PMCID: PMC9788880 DOI: 10.1155/2022/3065464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Background Acute monocytic leukemia belongs to type M5 of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) classified by FAB, which appears a high incidence of extramedullary infiltration (EMI) and poor prognosis. In this study, we observed the inhibitory effect of ginsenoside Rk3 on the EMI of monocytic leukemia cells and initially explored its related mechanism of targeting the miR-3677-5p/CXCL12 axis. Methods The MTT assay and colony formation assay were used to detect the inhibitory effect of Rk3 on proliferation. Both cellular migration and invasion were observed by the Transwell assay. The expression levels of miR-3677-5p, CXCL12, and CXCR4 were detected by RT-qPCR and Western blot, as well as overexpression of miR-3677-5p by transfected with lentivirus and detection of a dual luciferase reporter gene. The expression of MMP2 and TIMP2 was detected by immunofluorescence. Results Rk3 effectively inhibits the proliferation, migration, and invasion associated with EMI of leukemia. The leukemia cells of M5 patients with EMI showed low expression of miR-3677-5p but high expression of the mRNA of CXCL12 and CXCR4. Overexpression of miR-3677-5p or intervention of CXCL12 effectively inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion of SHI-1 cells. The luciferase assay showed that CXCL12 was the downstream target gene of miR-3677-5p. After overexpression of miR-3677-5p or intervention of CXCL12 in combination with Rk3, the inhibitory effect on the proliferation, migration, and invasion of SHI-1 cells was more obvious. Importantly, Rk3 significantly regulated the expression levels of miR-3677-5p, CXCL12, CXCR4, and EMI-related functional proteins including MMP2 and TIMP2. Overexpression of miR-3677-5p or intervention of CXCL12 also regulated the expression of MMP2 and TIMP2. Conclusions The leukemia cells of M5 patients with EMI appeared to have low expression of miR-3677-5p and high expression of the mRNA of CXCL12 and CXCR4, which may be used as indicators of EMI and poor prognosis. Rk3 is effective in inhibiting the EMI of SHI-1 cells by targeting the miR-3677-5p/CXCL12 axis.
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Peng X, Tang F, Yang Y, Li T, Hu X, Li S, Wu W, He K. Bidirectional effects and mechanisms of traditional Chinese medicine. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 298:115578. [PMID: 35917892 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2022.115578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE The bidirectional property of traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) was recorded in the classic work Medicine Origin (Yi Xue Qi Yuan) as early as the Jin and Yuan dynasties of ancient China. Since then, this imperative theory has been applied to guide the clinical application of TCMs. Studies have been performed to investigate this phenomenon only over the last three decades. A limited number of reviews on the bidirectional role of TCMs have been published, and almost all current studies are published in the Chinese language. AIM OF THE REVIEW The aim of this review is to provide the first comprehensive evidence regarding the bidirectional effects and the underlying mechanisms of TCMs and their active compounds. MATERIALS AND METHODS Information relevant to opposing pharmacological activities or opposing properties exerted by TCM prescriptions, herbal medicines, and their active compound, as well as their mechanisms was summarized by searching Chinese and English databases, including the Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wan Fang Data, Chinese Scientific Journal Database (VIP), Google Scholar, PubMed, Web of Science, Science Direct, and Wiley Online Library. RESULTS Although the bidirectional regulation of TCMs has been applied in the clinic since ancient times in China, only limited reviews have been published in Chinese. The existing data showed that bidirectional effects can be found in TCM prescriptions, herbal medicines, and pure active compounds. Additionally, the bidirectional role of TCMs was primarily reported in the modulation of immune function, blood circulation and hemostasis, gastrointestinal motility, the central nervous system and blood pressure. This may because the therapeutic outcomes of these disorders are more obvious than those of other complicated diseases. Intriguingly, some herbal medicines have multiple bidirectional activities; for instance, Panax ginseng C. A. Meyer showed bidirectional regulation of immune function and the central nervous system; Astragalus membranaceus can bidirectionally regulate blood pressure and immune function; and Rheum officinale Baill exerts bidirectional effects on blood circulation and hemostasis, gastrointestinal motility and immune function. The mechanisms underlying the bidirectional effects of TCMs are largely attributed to the complexity of herbal constituents, dosage differences, the processing of herbal medicine, and compatibility of medicines, the physiological conditions of patients and adaptogenic effects. CONCLUSION Uncovering the bidirectional effects and mechanisms of TCMs is of great importance for both scientific research and clinical applications. This review may help to facilitate the recognition of the bidirectional role of TCMs, to explain some seemingly-opposite phenomena in the pharmacological study of herbal medicines and to provide guidance for TCM practitioners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaonian Peng
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Dong Medicine, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Synthetic Biology of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua, 418000, Hunan, China.
| | - Fang Tang
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Dong Medicine, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua, 418000, Hunan, China.
| | - Yong Yang
- School of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, 410208, Hunan, China.
| | - Tiandan Li
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Dong Medicine, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Synthetic Biology of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua, 418000, Hunan, China.
| | - Xiaochao Hu
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Dong Medicine, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Synthetic Biology of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua, 418000, Hunan, China.
| | - Sha Li
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Dong Medicine, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Synthetic Biology of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua, 418000, Hunan, China.
| | - Weihua Wu
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Dong Medicine, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Synthetic Biology of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua, 418000, Hunan, China.
| | - Kai He
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Dong Medicine, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Synthetic Biology of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua, 418000, Hunan, China.
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19
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Yu GR, Lim DW, Karunarathne WAHM, Kim GY, Kim H, Kim JE, Park WH. A non-polar fraction of Saponaria officinalis L. acted as a TLR4/MD2 complex antagonist and inhibited TLR4/MyD88 signaling in vitro and in vivo. FASEB J 2022; 36:e22387. [PMID: 35696068 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202200018rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Targeting Toll-like receptor 4/myeloid differentiation factor 2 (TLR4/MD2) signaling is regarded as a potential strategy for treating inflammatory diseases. Saponaria officinalis L. is rich in saponin, which include quillaic acid, gypsogenin, saponarin, and hederagenin. We evaluated the pharmacological activity of a Saponaria officinalis extract in THP-1 derived macrophages and RAW264.7 macrophages. TLR4/MyD88 complex formation and downstream signals were investigated by co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP). In silico docking simulation was conducted to predict binding scores and perform 3D modeling of saponarin-TLR4/MD2 complex. A hexane fraction of Saponaria officinalis (SH) and fr.1 (a sub-fraction 1 of SH) inhibited mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling, nuclear factor kappa b (NF-κB) activity, cytokine production, and the expressions of marker genes specific for M1 polarization. The inhibitory effects of fr.1 and saponarin on TLR4/MyD88 complex formation were observed by western blotting TLR4 co-immunoprecipitated proteins. Saponarin and fr.1 markedly attenuated LPS-induced inflammatory cytokines, thus reducing mortality and morphological abnormality in zebrafish larvae. Finally, docking simulation revealed that saponarin can directly interact with TLR4/MD2 complex to inhibit downstream signalings. Our findings suggest that saponarin reduces downstream inflammatory response by disrupting TLR4/MD2 complex and blocking MyD88-dependent inflammatory signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ga-Ram Yu
- Department of Diagnostics, College of Korean Medicine, Dongguk University, Goyang, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong-Woo Lim
- Department of Diagnostics, College of Korean Medicine, Dongguk University, Goyang, Republic of Korea.,Department of Pathology, College of Korean Medicine, Dongguk University, Goyang, Republic of Korea.,Institute of Korean Medicine, Dongguk University, Goyang, Republic of Korea
| | | | - Gi-Young Kim
- Department of Marine Life Science, Jeju National University, Jeju, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyuck Kim
- Department of Diagnostics, College of Korean Medicine, Dongguk University, Goyang, Republic of Korea.,Institute of Korean Medicine, Dongguk University, Goyang, Republic of Korea
| | - Jai-Eun Kim
- Department of Pathology, College of Korean Medicine, Dongguk University, Goyang, Republic of Korea
| | - Won-Hwan Park
- Department of Diagnostics, College of Korean Medicine, Dongguk University, Goyang, Republic of Korea
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Yang F, Li J, Lan Y, Lei Y, Zeng F, Huang X, Luo X, Liu R. Potential application of ginseng in sepsis. J Ginseng Res 2022; 47:353-358. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jgr.2022.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
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21
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Tsibranska S, Ivanova A, Tcholakova S, Denkov N. Structure and Undulations of Escin Adsorption Layer at Water Surface Studied by Molecular Dynamics. Molecules 2021; 26:6856. [PMID: 34833947 PMCID: PMC8618613 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26226856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The saponin escin, extracted from horse chestnut seeds, forms adsorption layers with high viscoelasticity and low gas permeability. Upon deformation, escin adsorption layers often feature surface wrinkles with characteristic wavelength. In previous studies, we investigated the origin of this behavior and found that the substantial surface elasticity of escin layers may be related to a specific combination of short-, medium-, and long-range attractive forces, leading to tight molecular packing in the layers. In the current study, we performed atomistic molecular dynamics simulations of 441 escin molecules in a dense adsorption layer with an area per molecule of 0.49 nm2. We found that the surfactant molecules are less submerged in water and adopt a more upright position when compared to the characteristics determined in our previous simulations with much smaller molecular models. The number of neighbouring molecules and their local orientation, however, remain similar in the different-size models. To maintain their preferred mutual orientation, the escin molecules segregate into well-ordered domains and spontaneously form wrinkled layers. The same specific interactions (H-bonds, dipole-dipole attraction, and intermediate strong attraction) define the complex internal structure and the undulations of the layers. The analysis of the layer properties reveals a characteristic wrinkle wavelength related to the surface lateral dimensions, in qualitative agreement with the phenomenological description of thin elastic sheets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonya Tsibranska
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Faculty of Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Sofia, 1164 Sofia, Bulgaria; (S.T.); (S.T.); (N.D.)
| | - Anela Ivanova
- Department of Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Sofia, 1164 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Slavka Tcholakova
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Faculty of Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Sofia, 1164 Sofia, Bulgaria; (S.T.); (S.T.); (N.D.)
| | - Nikolai Denkov
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Faculty of Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Sofia, 1164 Sofia, Bulgaria; (S.T.); (S.T.); (N.D.)
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