Anti-inflammatory natural products modulate interleukins and their related signaling markers in inflammatory bowel disease: A systematic review

Tulipalin A suppressed the pro-inflammatory polarization of M1 macrophage and mitigated the acute lung injury in mice via interference DNA binding activity of NF-κB

Acute lung injury (ALI) is an inflammatory disorder accompanied by higher morbidity and mortality. The pathological mechanism of ALI has been reported to be associated with the release of inflammatory cytokines by macrophages. Sesquiterpene lactones (SLs) represent the principal anti-inflammatory components of many natural products. Tulipalin A is a natural small molecule and a conserved moiety in anti-inflammatory SLs. However, the anti-inflammatory potential of Tulipalin A has yet to be fully disclosed. The present study aims to investigate TulipalinA's anti-inflammatory activity and underlying mechanisms in vitro and in vivo. Tulipalin A suppressed inflammatory responses in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated bone marrow-derived primary macrophages and ameliorated LPS-induced ALI in mice. Mechanistically, Tulipalin A directly targets the NF-κB p65 and disrupts its DNA binding activity, thereby impeding the activation of NF-κB. Inhibition of NF-κB attenuated M1 polarization of macrophages, consequently suppressing the production of pro-inflammatory mediators and ameliorating the onset and progression of ALI. These findings suggest Tulipalin A's potential to mitigate inflammatory disorders like ALI via targeting NF-κB p65 and disrupting its DNA binding activity.

Demethylzeylasteral alleviates inflammation and colitis via dual suppression of NF-κB and STAT3/5 by targeting IKKα/β and JAK2

BACKGROUND

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a common inflammatory bowel disease and a risk factor of colorectal cancer. Demethylzeylasteral (DZT), a bioactive component mainly isolated from Tripterygium wilfordii, has been shown to inhibit inflammation and cancer. However, its anti-UC function and molecular mechanisms have not been well characterized. This study aims to explore the therapeutic effect and functional targets of demethylzeylasteral against UC.

METHODS

RT-qPCR, Western blot and ELISA were used to detect the generation of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines in murine macrophage cells. Luciferase reporter gene, Western blot, pull-down, CETSA, DARTS, and virtual docking were employed to detect the anti-inflammatory targets and molecular mechanisms of demethylzeylasteral. The anti-inflammatory and anti-colitis effects of demethylzeylasteral were further determined in DSS-challenged mice.

RESULTS

In vitro, demethylzeylasteral inhibited NO and PGE2 production by suppressing the mRNA and protein expression of iNOS and COX-2, and suppressed the mRNA expression of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, MCP-1, CXCL9, and CXCL10 in RAW264.7 macrophages stimulated by LPS/IFNγ. Furthermore, demethylzeylasteral was not only capable of inhibiting IKKα/β-NF-κB activation, but also able to block JAKs-STAT3/5 activation in LPS/INFγ-incubated RAW264.7 cells or DSS-exposed colon tissues of mice. Mechanistically, demethylzeylasteral was found to directly bind to IKKα/β and JAK2 kinases, leading to inactivation of pro-inflammatory signaling cascades and reduced generation of cytokines and chemokines. In vivo, oral administration of demethylzeylasteral significantly attenuated DSS-induced colitis, which was mainly manifested as mitigated symptoms of colitis, colonic mucosal barrier damage, and colonic inflammation.

CONCLUSION

We demonstrated that demethylzeylasteral alleviated UC pathology by blocking NF-κB and STAT3/5 pathways via targeting IKKα/β and JAK2 kinases, raising the possibility that demethylzeylasteral could act as a candidate for the treatment of UC.

Corn cob and corn silk-based ingredients possess bioaccessible and antioxidant phenolic compounds displaying anti-inflammatory effects in vitro

The poor disposal and lack of utilization of corn cob (CC) and corn silk (CS) generate environmental problems. This research aimed to develop CC and CS-based ingredients (1 : 1, 1 : 2, and 2 : 1 mixtures) and evaluate the in vitro gastrointestinal bioaccessibility of selected polyphenols and their anti-inflammatory effect. (+)-Catechin, gallic acid, and p-coumaric acid were detected (HPLC-DAD) at all digestion stages and are the major contributors to the observed antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects in vitro. Compounds from the digestible fractions of the ingredients contributed to up to 60% of membrane stability in vitro in human red blood cells, compared to Diclofenac® (82%). (+)-Catechin was the compound exhibiting the highest anti-inflammatory effect in silico against anti- and pro-inflammatory PGE2, PPARγ, and COX-2 proteins at two model pH levels of membrane stability (5.7 and 7.0). Results suggested that polyphenols from agricultural residues (CC and CS) manufactured as ingredients are bioaccessible and exhibit potential biological effects, and could be used as potential feasible food ingredients.

Advances in the study of artemisinin and its derivatives for the treatment of rheumatic skeletal disorders, autoimmune inflammatory diseases, and autoimmune disorders: a comprehensive review

Artemisinin and its derivatives are widely recognized as first-line treatments for malaria worldwide. Recent studies have demonstrated that artemisinin-based antimalarial drugs, such as artesunate, dihydroartemisinin, and artemether, not only possess excellent antimalarial properties but also exhibit antitumor, antifungal, and immunomodulatory effects. Researchers globally have synthesized artemisinin derivatives like SM735, SM905, and SM934, which offer advantages such as low toxicity, high bioavailability, and potential immunosuppressive properties. These compounds induce immunosuppression by inhibiting the activation of pathogenic T cells, suppressing B cell activation and antibody production, and enhancing the differentiation of regulatory T cells. This review summarized the mechanisms by which artemisinin and its analogs modulate excessive inflammation and immune responses in rheumatic and skeletal diseases, autoimmune inflammatory diseases, and autoimmune disorders, through pathways including TNF, Toll-like receptors, IL-6, RANKL, MAPK, PI3K/AKT/mTOR, JAK/STAT, and NRF2/GPX4. Notably, in the context of the NF-κB pathway, artemisinin not only inhibits NF-κB expression by disrupting upstream cascades and/or directly binding to NF-κB but also downregulates multiple downstream genes controlled by NF-κB, including inflammatory chemokines and their receptors. These downstream targets regulate various immune cell functions, apoptosis, proliferation, signal transduction, and antioxidant responses, ultimately intervening in systemic autoimmune diseases and autoimmune responses in organs such as the kidneys, nervous system, skin, liver, and biliary system by modulating immune dysregulation and inflammatory responses. Ongoing multicenter randomized clinical trials are investigating the effects of these compounds on rheumatic, inflammatory, and autoimmune diseases, with the aim of translating promising preclinical data into clinical applications.

Integrating ADMET, enrichment analysis, and molecular docking approach to elucidate the mechanism of Artemisia herba alba for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease-associated arthritis

Inflammatory Bowel Disease-Associated Arthritis (IBD-associated arthritis) poses a significant challenge, intertwining the complexities of both inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and arthritis, significantly compromising patient quality of life. While existing medications offer relief, these drugs often initiate adverse effects, necessitating the requirement for safer therapeutic alternatives. Artemisia herba-alba, a traditional medicinal plant known for its anti-inflammatory properties, emerges as a potential candidate. Our computational study focused on examining 20 bioactive compounds derived from A. herba-alba for potential treatment of IBD-associated arthritis. These compounds detected in A. herba-alba include camphor, alpha-thujone, eucalyptol, cis-chrysanthenyl acetate, vicenin-2, 4,5-di-O-caffeoylquinic acid, chlorogenic acid, hispidulin, isoschaftoside, isovitexin, patuletin-3-glucoside, vanillic acid, rutin, schaftoside, lopinavir, nelfinavir, quercetin, artemisinin, gallic acid, and cinnamic acid. Following rigorous analysis encompassing pharmacokinetics, toxicity profiles, and therapeutic targets, compounds with favorable, beneficial characteristics were identified. In addition, comparative analysis with disease-gene associations demonstrated the interconnectedness of inflammatory pathways across diseases. Molecular docking studies provided mechanistic insights indicating this natural plant components potential to modulate critical inflammatory pathways. Overall, our findings indicate that A. herba-alba-derived compounds may be considered as therapeutic agents for IBD-associated arthritis, warranting further experimental validation and clinical exploration.

Berberine alleviates ulcerative colitis by inhibiting inflammation through targeting IRGM1

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.

QingChang-XiaoPi decoction ameliorates intestinal inflammation of ulcerative colitis by regulating the pathogenicity of Th17 cells

BACKGROUND

QingChang-XiaoPi Decoction (QCXPY), a Chinese herbal prescription, has been employed in the treatment of ulcerative colitis (UC) in China. However, its molecular mechanism of action in UC remains unclear.

PURPOSE

To elucidate the therapeutic effects of QCXPY against UC and reveal its mechanism of action.

STUDY DESIGN

We conducted a single-arm observation to evaluate the clinical efficacy of QCXPY in patients with mild-to-moderate UC. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were established to ensure the eligibility of participants, with a focus on excluding patients with specific conditions or complications that could confound the results.

METHODS

The expression of inflammatory factors in patients' serum was detected using a Luminex assay. The main components of QCXPY were identified using UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS. Network pharmacology was employed to predict potential therapeutic targets and their mechanisms of action. The efficacy of QCXPY was evaluated using a dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced mouse model. Disease activity index (DAI), histopathological score, cytokine detection by ELISA, T-helper 17 (Th17) cell proportion by flow cytometry, expression of the IL-23/IL-17 axis, and changes in the levels of its downstream effectors were detected by immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, and western blotting.

RESULTS

QCXPY could alleviate the symptoms of diarrhea, abdominal pain, abdominal distension, and purulent stool in patients with mild-to-moderate UC. Moreover, it reduced the expression of IL-6, IL-17, and IL-23 in serum; alleviated DSS-induced experimental colitis in mice; reduced DAI, pathological scores, and the expressions of IL-6, IL-17, and IL-23 in colon tissue; and decreased the proportion of pathogenic Th17 cells and the expression of STAT3 and phospho-STAT3.

CONCLUSION

This study confirmed for the first time that QCXPY could alleviate intestinal symptoms, reduce the levels of serum inflammatory factors, and improve the quality of life of patients with mild-to-moderate UC. Its mechanism of action may involve reducing the secretion of inflammatory cytokines, moderating the pathogenicity of Th17 cells, and inhibiting STAT3 phosphorylation, thereby alleviating intestinal inflammation in UC.

Oral Anti-Inflammatory and Symbiotic Effects of Fermented Lingonberry Juice-Potential Benefits in IBD

Microbial dysbiosis may manifest as inflammation both orally and in the gastrointestinal tract. Altered oral and gut microbiota composition and decreased diversity have been shown in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and periodontal disease (PD). Recent studies have verified transmission of oral opportunistic microbes to the gut. Prebiotics, probiotics, or dietary interventions are suggested to alleviate IBD symptoms in addition to medicinal treatment. Lingonberries contain multiple bioactive molecules, phenolics, which have a broad spectrum of effects, including antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-proteolytic, and anti-cancer properties. An all-natural product, fermented lingonberry juice (FLJ), is discussed as a potential natural anti-inflammatory substance. FLJ has been shown in clinical human trials to promote the growth of oral lactobacilli, and inhibit growth of the opportunistic oral pathogens Candida, Streptococcus mutans, and periodontopathogens, and decrease inflammation, oral destructive proteolysis (aMMP-8), and dental microbial plaque load. Lactobacilli are probiotic and considered also beneficial for gut health. Considering the positive outcome of these oral studies and the fact that FLJ may be swallowed safely, it might be beneficial also for the gut mucosa by balancing the microbiota and reducing proteolytic inflammation.

Anti-Neuroinflammatory Effect of Ombuin from Rhamnus erythroxylon Pall. Leaves in LPS-Induced BV-2 Microglia by Targeting Src and Suppressing the PI3K-AKT/NF-κB Signaling Pathway

The leaves of Rhamnus erythroxylon Pall. are widely used as tea substitutes in northwest China for their fragrant aroma, anti-irritability, and digestion-enhancing properties. Ombuin, a main flavonoid compound found in the leaves, exhibited notable anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. However, its potential role in treating neuroinflammatory-related diseases remains unexplored. Thus, this study aims to evaluate the anti-neuroinflammatory effects of ombuin and to explore the underlying molecular mechanisms. According to our findings, ombuin dramatically reduced the release of interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), IL-1β, nitric oxide (NO), and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated BV-2 microglia. Further analysis, including transcriptomics, network pharmacology, molecular docking, and cellular heat transfer assays, revealed that Src was a direct target of ombuin. Western blot analysis showed that ombuin effectively suppressed Src phosphorylation and inhibited the downstream expressions of p-PI3K p85, p-AKT1, p-IKKα/β, p-IκBα, and nuclear factor κB (NF-κB). Meanwhile, the repression of Src significantly reversed the anti-neuroinflammatory activity of ombuin. Our results identified Src as a direct target of ombuin and implied that ombuin exerted an anti-neuroinflammatory effect by inhibiting Src phosphorylation and suppressing the activation of the PI3K-AKT and NF-κB pathways, which might provide an alternative therapeutic strategy for neurodegenerative diseases.

Construction of Cell Membrane Chromatography Screening Materials Based on Avi-Tag Fused G Protein-Coupled Receptors

Mas-related G protein-coupled receptor X2 (MrgprX2) plays a crucial role in anaphylactoid reactions and allergic diseases. Some antagonists with reasonable potency and selectivity have been reported. Cell membrane chromatography (CMC) is effective for discovering ligands. Protein-tag-based CMC models (e.g., SNAP tags and HALO tags) have enhanced performance but also increased nonspecific adsorption of small molecules. The Avi tag, a short peptide sequence, binds biotin specifically via BirA catalysis. Our study showed that 2-iminobiotin (IB) can be a BirA substrate, enabling the development of a new cell membrane stationary phase (CMSP) based on the chemical properties (modifying carboxyl silica gel and specifically labeling the Avi tag) of IB. First, we constructed the MrgprX2-Avi-tag HEK293T cell line. Next, we synthesized IB-modified silica gel (SiO2-IB) stepwise. Finally, we immobilized Avi-tagged MrgprX2 cell membranes on SiO2-IB under BirA catalysis. We characterized the developed CMSP and used it to establish a MrgprX2-Avi-tag/CMC-HPLC/MS two-dimensional screening platform, successfully screening vitexicarpin fromViticis Fructus extract via a 2D/CMC platform. In vitro and in vivo experiments confirmed that vitexicarpin targets the MrgprX2 receptor, demonstrating antiallergic effects. Our IB-Avi tag-based CMC approach effectively decreased nonspecific adsorption of the screening materials. The Avi-tag-based 2D/CMC platform is suitable for screening potential drug candidates.

Interactions between Dietary Antioxidants, Dietary Fiber and the Gut Microbiome: Their Putative Role in Inflammation and Cancer

The intricate relationship between the gastrointestinal (GI) microbiome and the progression of chronic non-communicable diseases underscores the significance of developing strategies to modulate the GI microbiota for promoting human health. The administration of probiotics and prebiotics represents a good strategy that enhances the population of beneficial bacteria in the intestinal lumen post-consumption, which has a positive impact on human health. In addition, dietary fibers serve as a significant energy source for bacteria inhabiting the cecum and colon. Research articles and reviews sourced from various global databases were systematically analyzed using specific phrases and keywords to investigate these relationships. There is a clear association between dietary fiber intake and improved colon function, gut motility, and reduced colorectal cancer (CRC) risk. Moreover, the state of health is reflected in the reciprocal and bidirectional relationships among food, dietary antioxidants, inflammation, and body composition. They are known for their antioxidant properties and their ability to inhibit angiogenesis, metastasis, and cell proliferation. Additionally, they promote cell survival, modulate immune and inflammatory responses, and inactivate pro-carcinogens. These actions collectively contribute to their role in cancer prevention. In different investigations, antioxidant supplements containing vitamins have been shown to lower the risk of specific cancer types. In contrast, some evidence suggests that taking antioxidant supplements can increase the risk of developing cancer. Ultimately, collaborative efforts among immunologists, clinicians, nutritionists, and dietitians are imperative for designing well-structured nutritional trials to corroborate the clinical efficacy of dietary therapy in managing inflammation and preventing carcinogenesis. This review seeks to explore the interrelationships among dietary antioxidants, dietary fiber, and the gut microbiome, with a particular focus on their potential implications in inflammation and cancer.

Artificial mucus layer formed in response to ROS for the oral treatment of inflammatory bowel disease

The artificial mucus layer, such as hydrogels, used to repair the damaged intestinal barrier, is a promising treatment for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). However, the currently reported hydrogel-based artificial barriers are administered via rectal injection, causing unnecessary discomfort to patients. Herein, we report an oral hydrogel precursor solution based on thiol-modified hyaluronic acid (HASH). Owing to the reactive oxygen species (ROS)-responsive gelling behavior, our precursor solution formed an artificial mucus coating over the inflamed regions of the intestines, blocking microbial invasion and reducing abnormally activated immune responses. Notably, HASH also modulated the gut microbiota, including increasing the diversity and enhancing the abundance of short-chain fatty acid-associated bacteria, which play a key role in gut homeostasis. We believe that the ROS-responsive artificial mucus layer is a promising strategy for the oral treatment of IBD.

Orally ingestible medication utilizing layered double hydroxide nanoparticles strengthened alginate and hyaluronic acid-based hydrogel bead for bowel disease management

In the treatment of bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis through oral administration, an effective drug delivery system targeting the colon is crucial for enhancing efficacy and minimizing side effects of therapeutic agents. This study focuses on the development of a novel nanocomposite hydrogel bead comprising a synergistic blend of biological macromolecules, namely sodium alginate (ALG) and hyaluronic acid (HA), reinforced with layered double hydroxide nanoparticles (LDHs) for the oral delivery of dual therapeutics. The synthesized hydrogel bead exhibits significantly enhanced gel strength and controllable release of methylprednisolone (MP) and curcumin (CUR), serving as an anti-inflammatory drug and a mucosal healing agent, compared to native ALG or ALG/HA hydrogel beads without LDHs. The physicochemical properties of the synthesized LDHs and hydrogel beads were characterized using various techniques, including scanning electron microscopy, zeta potential measurement, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. In vitro release studies of MP and CUR under simulated gastrointestinal tract (GIT) conditions demonstrate the superior controlled release property of the nanocomposite hydrogel bead, particularly in minimizing premature drug release in the upper GIT environment while sustaining release of over 82 % of drugs in the colonic environment. Thus, the modularly engineered carrier designed for oral colon targeting holds promise as a potential candidate for the treatment of ulcerative colitis.

Screening anti-anaphylactoid components in Polygonum cuspidatum via cell membrane chromatography with LC-MS targeting Mas-related G protein-coupled receptor X2

Mas-related G protein-coupled receptor X2 (MrgprX2) is acknowledged as a mast cell-specific receptor, playing a crucial role in orchestrating anaphylactoid responses through mast cell degranulation. It holds promise as a target for regulating allergic and inflammatory diseases mediated by mast cells. Polygonum cuspidatum (PC) has shown notable anti-anaphylactoid effects, while its pharmacologically active components remain unclear. In this study, we successfully utilized MrgprX2 high-expressing cell membrane chromatography (CMC), in conjunction with liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS), to identify active anti-anaphylactoid components in PC. Our study pinpointed polydatin, resveratrol, and emodin-8-O-β-d-glucoside as potential anti-anaphylactoid compounds in PC. Their anti-anaphylactoid activities were evaluated through β-aminohexosidase and histamine release assays, demonstrating a concentration-dependent inhibition for both β-aminohexosidase and histamine release. This approach, integrating MrgprX2 high-expression CMC with LC-MS, proves effective in screening potential anti-anaphylactoid ingredients in natural herbal medicines. The findings from this study illuminated the anti-anaphylactoid properties of specific components in PC and provided an efficient method for the drug development of natural products.

Effects of folate-chicory acid liposome on macrophage polarization and TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway in ulcerative colitis mouse

BACKGROUND

Chichoric acid (CA) is a major active ingredient found in chicory and Echinacea. As a derivative of caffeic acid, it has various pharmacological effects.

PURPOSE

Due to the unclear etiology and disease mechanisms, effective treatment methods for ulcerative colitis (UC) are currently lacking. The study investigated the therapeutic effects of the folate-chicory acid liposome on both LPS-induced macrophage inflammation models and dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced mouse UC models.

METHODS

Folate-chicory acid liposome was prepared using the double emulsion ultrasonic method with the aim of targeting folate receptors specifically expressed on macrophages. The study investigated the therapeutic effects of the folate-chicory acid liposome on both LPS-induced macrophage inflammation models and DSS -induced mouse UC models. Furthermore, the effects of the liposomes on macrophage polarization and their underlying mechanisms in UC were explored.

RESULTS

The average particle size of folate-chicory acid liposome was 120.4 ± 0.46 nm, with an encapsulation efficiency of 77.32 ± 3.19 %. The folate-chicory acid liposome could alleviate macrophage apoptosis induced by LPS, decrease the expression of inflammatory factors in macrophages, enhance the expression of anti-inflammatory factors, inhibit macrophage polarization towards the M1 phenotype, and mitigate cellular inflammation in vetro. In vivo test, folate-chicory acid liposome could attenuate clinical symptoms, increased colon length, reduced DAI scores, CMDI scores, and alleviated the severity of colonic histopathological damage in UC mice. Furthermore, it inhibited the polarization of macrophages towards the M1 phenotype in the colon and downregulated the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway, thereby ameliorating UC in mice.

CONCLUSION

Folate-chicory acid liposome exhibited a uniform particle size distribution and high encapsulation efficiency. It effectively treated UC mice by inhibiting the polarization of macrophages towards the M1 phenotype in the colon and downregulating the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway.

Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Artemisia argyi H. Fermented by Lactobacillus plantarum in the LPS-Induced RAW 264.7 Cells and DSS-Induced Colitis Model

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory disease caused by abnormal immune responses in the intestinal mucosa and gut microorganisms. Unlike other mugworts, Artemisia argyi H. (A. argyi H.) enhances antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer effects, but the improvement effects against gut inflammation have not yet been reported. Therefore, this study aimed to confirm the alleviation of the inflammatory state in the gut by A. argyi H. fermented with Lactobacillus plantarum (FAA), using lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW 264.7 cells and dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis models. In vitro, FAA (10, 50, 100, and 200 μg/mL) was pretreated into RAW 264.7 cells, followed with LPS (100 ng/mL), which induced the cell damage. Meanwhile, in vivo, FAA (100, 200 mg/kg/day) was orally administered into 6-week-old C57BL/6N mice for 3 weeks. During the last week of FAA administration, 2.5% DSS was used to induce colitis. The results showed that FAA reduced the production of nitric oxide (p < 0.0001), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-6 (p < 0.0001), and IL-1β (p < 0.0001) in the LPS-induced RAW 264.7 cells. Moreover, in the DSS-induced colitis model, FAA alleviated clinical symptoms (p < 0.001), inhibited the inflammatory state by reducing the production of TNF-α (p < 0.0001) and interferon-γ in intestinal immune cells (p < 0.0001), and strengthened the intestinal barrier by increasing the number of goblet cells (p < 0.0001). Furthermore, the anti-inflammatory effects were confirmed by the alleviation of histological damage (p < 0.001) and down-regulation of the expression of inflammatory proteins (TLR4, p < 0.0001; MyD88, p < 0.0001; Cox-2, p < 0.0001). These results suggest the potential of FAA as a dietary ingredient for preventing inflammation in the gut.

Comprehensive metabolome characterization and comparison between two sources of Dragon's blood by integrating liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry and chemometrics

Dragon's Blood (DB) serves as a precious Chinese medicine facilitating blood circulation and stasis dispersion. Daemonorops draco (D. draco; Qi-Lin-Jie) and Dracaena cochinchinensis (D. cochinchinenesis; Long-Xue-Jie) are two reputable plant sources for preparing DB. This work was designed to comprehensively characterize and compare the metabolome differences between D. draco and D. cochinchinenesis, by integrating liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry and untargeted metabolomics analysis. Offline two-dimensional liquid chromatography/ion mobility-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (2D-LC/IM-QTOF-MS), by utilizing a powerful hybrid scan approach, was elaborated for multicomponent characterization. Configuration of an XBridge Amide column and an HSS T3 column in offline mode exhibited high orthogonality (A0 0.80) in separating the complex components in DB. Particularly, the hybrid high-definition MSE-high definition data-dependent acquisition (HDMSE-HDDDA) in both positive and negative ion modes was applied for data acquisition. Streamlined intelligent data processing facilitated by the UNIFI™ (Waters) bioinformatics platform and searching against an in-house chemical library (recording 223 known compounds) enabled efficient structural elucidation. We could characterize 285 components, including 143 from D. draco and 174 from D. cochinchinensis. Holistic comparison of the metabolomes among 21 batches of DB samples by the untargeted metabolomics workflows unveiled 43 significantly differential components. Separately, four and three components were considered as the marker compounds for identifying D. draco and D. cochinchinenesis, respectively. Conclusively, the chemical composition and metabolomic differences of two DB resources were investigated by a dimension-enhanced analytical approach, with the results being beneficial to quality control and the differentiated clinical application of DB.