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Liu T, Zheng D, Wang J, Li X, Yu S, Liu Z, Zheng F, Zhao C, Yang X, Wang Y. Dihydroartemisinin suppresses the susceptibility of Anopheles stephensi to Plasmodium yoelii by activating the Toll signaling pathway. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:414. [PMID: 39363238 PMCID: PMC11451267 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-024-06497-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 09/18/2024] [Indexed: 10/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Malaria is a serious public health concern. Artemisinin and its derivatives are first-line drugs for the treatment of Plasmodium falciparum malaria. In mammals, artemisinin exhibits potent anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory properties. However, it is unclear whether artemisinin plays a regulatory role in the innate immunity of mosquitoes, thereby affecting the development of Plasmodium in Anopheles when artemisinin and its metabolites enter mosquitoes. This study aims to determine the effect of dihydroartemisinin (DHA), a first-generation semisynthetic derivative of artemisinin, on innate immunity and malaria vector competence of Anopheles stephensi. METHODS Anopheles stephensi was fed Plasmodium-infected mice treated with DHA via gavage, Plasmodium-infected blood containing DHA in vitro, or DHA-containing sugar, followed by Plasmodium yoelii infection. The engorged female mosquitoes were separated and dissected 8 and 17 days after infection. Plasmodium oocysts and sporozoites were counted and compared between the control and DHA-treated groups. Additionally, total RNA and proteins were extracted from engorged mosquitoes 24 and 72 h post infection (hpi). Real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and western blotting were performed to detect the transcriptional levels and protein expression of immune molecules in mosquitoes. Finally, the Toll signaling pathway was inhibited via RNA interference and the infection density was analyzed to confirm the role of the Toll signaling pathway in the effect of DHA on the vector competence of mosquitoes. RESULTS DHA treatment via different approaches significantly reduced the number of Plasmodium oocysts and sporozoites in mosquitoes. The transcriptional levels of anti-Plasmodium immune genes (including TEP1, LRIM1, and APL1C), Toll pathway genes (including Tube, MyD88, and Rel1), and the effector defensin 1 were upregulated by DHA treatment at 24 and 72 hpi. TEP1 and Rel1 protein expression was significantly induced under DHA treatment. However, Rel1 knockdown in DHA-treated mosquitoes abrogated DHA-mediated refractoriness to Plasmodium infection. CONCLUSIONS DHA treatment effectively inhibited the development of P. yoelii in A. stephensi by upregulating mosquitoes' Toll signaling pathway, thereby influencing the susceptibility of Anopheles to Plasmodium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Liu
- Department of Tropical Medicine, College of Military Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University, No. 30 Gaotanyan St, Shapingba Dis, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Dan Zheng
- Department of Tropical Medicine, College of Military Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University, No. 30 Gaotanyan St, Shapingba Dis, Chongqing, 400038, China
- School of Public Health, The Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Tropical Medicine, College of Military Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University, No. 30 Gaotanyan St, Shapingba Dis, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Xin Li
- Department of Tropical Medicine, College of Military Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University, No. 30 Gaotanyan St, Shapingba Dis, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Shasha Yu
- Department of Tropical Medicine, College of Military Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University, No. 30 Gaotanyan St, Shapingba Dis, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Zhilong Liu
- Department of Tropical Medicine, College of Military Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University, No. 30 Gaotanyan St, Shapingba Dis, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Feifei Zheng
- Department of Tropical Medicine, College of Military Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University, No. 30 Gaotanyan St, Shapingba Dis, Chongqing, 400038, China
- School of Public Health, The Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, China
| | - Caizhi Zhao
- Department of Tropical Medicine, College of Military Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University, No. 30 Gaotanyan St, Shapingba Dis, Chongqing, 400038, China
- School of Public Health, The Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, China
| | - Xuesen Yang
- Department of Tropical Medicine, College of Military Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University, No. 30 Gaotanyan St, Shapingba Dis, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Tropical Medicine, College of Military Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University, No. 30 Gaotanyan St, Shapingba Dis, Chongqing, 400038, China.
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Villamizar-Monsalve MA, López-Abán J, Vicente B, Peláez R, Muro A. Current drug strategies for the treatment and control of schistosomiasis. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2024; 25:409-420. [PMID: 38511392 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2024.2333372] [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: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Schistosomiasis, one of the current Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) affects over 230 million people globally, with nearly 700 million at risk in more than 74 countries. Praziquantel (PZQ) has served as the primary treatment for the past four decades; however, its effectiveness is limited as it solely eliminates adult worms. In regions where infections are frequent, PZQ exhibits only temporary efficacy and has restricted potential to disrupt the prolonged transmission of the disease. AREAS COVERED A comprehensive exploration using the PubMed database was conducted to review current pharmacotherapy approaches for schistosomiasis. This review also encompasses recent research findings related to potential novel therapeutics and the repurposing of existing drugs. EXPERT OPINION Current schistosoma treatment strategies, primarily relying on PZQ, face challenges like temporary effectiveness and limited impact on disease transmission. Drug repurposing, due to economic constraints, is decisive for NTDs. Despite PZQ's efficacy, its failure to prevent reinfection highlights the need for complementary strategies, especially in regions with persistent environmental foci. Integrating therapies against diverse schistosome stages boosts efficacy and impedes resistance. Uncovering novel agents is essential to address resistance concerns in tackling this neglected tropical disease. Integrated strategies present a comprehensive approach to navigate the complex challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Alejandra Villamizar-Monsalve
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Group (e-INTRO), Biomedical Research Institute of Salamanca Research Centre for Tropical Diseases at the University of Salamanca (IBSAL-CIETUS), Salamanca, Spain
| | - Julio López-Abán
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Group (e-INTRO), Biomedical Research Institute of Salamanca Research Centre for Tropical Diseases at the University of Salamanca (IBSAL-CIETUS), Salamanca, Spain
| | - Belén Vicente
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Group (e-INTRO), Biomedical Research Institute of Salamanca Research Centre for Tropical Diseases at the University of Salamanca (IBSAL-CIETUS), Salamanca, Spain
| | - Rafael Peláez
- Organic and Pharmaceutical Chemistry Department, Biomedical Research Institute of Salamanca Research Centre for Tropical Diseases at the University of Salamanca (IBSAL-CIETUS), Salamanca, Spain
| | - Antonio Muro
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Group (e-INTRO), Biomedical Research Institute of Salamanca Research Centre for Tropical Diseases at the University of Salamanca (IBSAL-CIETUS), Salamanca, Spain
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Imhof D, Hänggeli KPA, De Sousa MCF, Vigneswaran A, Hofmann L, Amdouni Y, Boubaker G, Müller J, Hemphill A. Working towards the development of vaccines and chemotherapeutics against neosporosis-With all of its ups and downs-Looking ahead. ADVANCES IN PARASITOLOGY 2024; 124:91-154. [PMID: 38754928 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apar.2024.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Neospora caninum is an apicomplexan and obligatory intracellular parasite, which is the leading cause of reproductive failure in cattle and affects other farm and domestic animals, but also induces neuromuscular disease in dogs of all ages. In cattle, neosporosis is an important health problem, and has a considerable economic impact. To date there is no protective vaccine or chemotherapeutic treatment on the market. Immuno-prophylaxis has long been considered as the best control measure. Proteins involved in host cell interaction and invasion, as well as antigens mediating inflammatory responses have been the most frequently assessed vaccine targets. However, despite considerable efforts no effective vaccine has been introduced to the market to date. The development of effective compounds to limit the effects of vertical transmission of N. caninum tachyzoites has emerged as an alternative or addition to vaccination, provided suitable targets and safe and efficacious drugs can be identified. Additionally, the combination of both treatment strategies might be interesting to further increase protectivity against N. caninum infections and to decrease the duration of treatment and the risk of potential drug resistance. Well-established and standardized animal infection models are key factors for the evaluation of promising vaccine and compound candidates. The vast majority of experimental animal experiments concerning neosporosis have been performed in mice, although in recent years the numbers of experimental studies in cattle and sheep have increased. In this review, we discuss the recent findings concerning the progress in drug and vaccine development against N. caninum infections in mice and ruminants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dennis Imhof
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.
| | - Kai Pascal Alexander Hänggeli
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland; Graduate School for Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Maria Cristina Ferreira De Sousa
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland; Graduate School for Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Anitha Vigneswaran
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Larissa Hofmann
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Yosra Amdouni
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Ghalia Boubaker
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Joachim Müller
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Andrew Hemphill
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.
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Rathi K, Shukla M, Hassam M, Shrivastava R, Rawat V, Prakash Verma V. Recent advances in the synthesis and antimalarial activity of 1,2,4-trioxanes. Bioorg Chem 2024; 143:107043. [PMID: 38134523 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2023.107043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
The increasing resistance of various malarial parasite strains to drugs has made the production of a new, rapid-acting, and efficient antimalarial drug more necessary, as the demand for such drugs is growing rapidly. As a major global health concern, various methods have been implemented to address the problem of drug resistance, including the hybrid drug concept, combination therapy, the development of analogues of existing medicines, and the use of drug resistance reversal agents. Artemisinin and its derivatives are currently used against multidrug- resistant P. falciparum species. However, due to its natural origin, its use has been limited by its scarcity in natural resources. As a result, finding a substitute becomes more crucial, and the peroxide group in artemisinin, responsible for the drugs biological action in the form of 1,2,4-trioxane, may hold the key to resolving this issue. The literature suggests that 1,2,4-trioxanes have the potential to become an alternative to current malaria drugs, as highlighted in this review. This is why 1,2,4-trioxanes and their derivatives have been synthesized on a large scale worldwide, as they have shown promising antimalarial activity in vivo and in vitro against Plasmodium species. Consequently, the search for a more convenient, environment friendly, sustainable, efficient, and effective synthetic pathway for the synthesis of 1,2,4-trioxanes continues. The aim of this work is to provide a comprehensive analysis of the synthesis and mechanism of action of 1,2,4-trioxanes. This systematic review highlights the most recent summaries of derivatives of 1,2,4-trioxane compounds and dimers with potential antimalarial activity from January 1988 to 2023.
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Affiliation(s)
- Komal Rathi
- Department of Chemistry, Banasthali University, Banasthali Newai 304022, Rajasthan, India
| | - Monika Shukla
- Department of Chemistry, Banasthali University, Banasthali Newai 304022, Rajasthan, India
| | | | - Rahul Shrivastava
- Department of Chemistry, Manipal University Jaipur, Jaipur (Rajasthan), VPO- Dehmi-Kalan, Off Jaipur-Ajmer Express Way, Jaipur, Rajasthan 30300, India
| | - Varun Rawat
- School of Chemistry, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel.
| | - Ved Prakash Verma
- Department of Chemistry, Banasthali University, Banasthali Newai 304022, Rajasthan, India.
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Huang Y, Yang Y, Liu G, Xu M. New clinical application prospects of artemisinin and its derivatives: a scoping review. Infect Dis Poverty 2023; 12:115. [PMID: 38072951 PMCID: PMC10712159 DOI: 10.1186/s40249-023-01152-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent research has suggested that artemisinin and its derivatives may have therapeutic effects on parasites, viruses, tumors, inflammation and skin diseases. This study aimed to review clinical research on artemisinin and its derivatives except anti-malaria and explore possible priority areas for future development. METHODS Relevant articles in English and Chinese published before 28 October 2021 were reviewed. All articles were retrieved and obtained from databases including WanFang, PubMed/MEDLINE, the Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge International, Embase, OpenGrey, the Grey Literature Report, Grey Horizon, and ClinicalTrials.gov. Studies were selected for final inclusion based on predefined criteria. Information was then extracted and analyzed by region, disease, outcome, and time to identify relevant knowledge gaps. RESULTS Seventy-seven studies on anti-parasitic (35), anti-tumor (16), anti-inflammatory (12), anti-viral (8), and dermatological treatments (7) focused on the safety and efficacy of artemisinin and its derivatives. The anti-parasitic clinical research developed rapidly, with a large number of trials, rapid clinical progress, and multiple research topics. In contrast, anti-viral research was limited and mainly stayed in phase I clinical trials (37.50%). Most of the studies were conducted in Asia (60%), followed by Africa (27%), Europe (8%), and the Americas (5%). Anti-parasite and anti-inflammatory research were mainly distributed in less developed continents such as Asia and Africa, while cutting-edge research such as anti-tumor has attracted more attention in Europe and the United States. At the safety level, 58 articles mentioned the adverse reactions of artemisinin and its derivatives, with only one study showing a Grade 3 adverse event, while the other studies did not show any related adverse reactions or required discontinuation. Most studies have discovered therapeutic effects of artemisinin or its derivatives on anti-parasitic (27), anti-tumor (9), anti-inflammatory (9) and dermatological treatment (6). However, the efficacy of artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs) for parasitic diseases (non-malaria) is still controversial. CONCLUSIONS Recent clinical studies suggest that artemisinin and its derivatives may be safe and effective candidates for anti-tumor, anti-parasitic, anti-inflammatory and dermatological drugs. More phase II/III clinical trials of artemisinin and its derivatives on antiviral effects are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangmu Huang
- School of Public Health, Peking University, 38 Xue Yuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China.
- Institute for Global Health and Development, Peking University, 38 Xue Yuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China.
| | - Yang Yang
- School of Public Health, Peking University, 38 Xue Yuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Guangqi Liu
- Energy Saving and Environmental Protection and Occupational Safety and Health Research Institute, China Academy of Railway Sciences Co., Ltd, No. 2 Daliushu Road, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Ming Xu
- School of Public Health, Peking University, 38 Xue Yuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China
- Institute for Global Health and Development, Peking University, 38 Xue Yuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China
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Salim AA, Butler MS, Blaskovich MAT, Henderson IR, Capon RJ. Natural products as anthelmintics: safeguarding animal health. Nat Prod Rep 2023; 40:1754-1808. [PMID: 37555325 DOI: 10.1039/d3np00019b] [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: 08/10/2023]
Abstract
Covering literature to December 2022This review provides a comprehensive account of all natural products (500 compounds, including 17 semi-synthetic derivatives) described in the primary literature up to December 2022, reported to be capable of inhibiting the egg hatching, motility, larval development and/or the survival of helminths (i.e., nematodes, flukes and tapeworms). These parasitic worms infect and compromise the health and welfare, productivity and lives of commercial livestock (i.e., sheep, cattle, horses, pigs, poultry and fish), companion animals (i.e., dogs and cats) and other high value, endangered and/or exotic animals. Attention is given to chemical structures, as well as source organisms and anthelmintic properties, including the nature of bioassay target species, in vivo animal hosts, and measures of potency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela A Salim
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia, 4072.
| | - Mark S Butler
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia, 4072.
| | - Mark A T Blaskovich
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia, 4072.
| | - Ian R Henderson
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia, 4072.
| | - Robert J Capon
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia, 4072.
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Henke K, Ntovas S, Xourgia E, Exadaktylos AK, Klukowska-Rötzler J, Ziaka M. Who Let the Dogs Out? Unmasking the Neglected: A Semi-Systematic Review on the Enduring Impact of Toxocariasis, a Prevalent Zoonotic Infection. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6972. [PMID: 37947530 PMCID: PMC10649795 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20216972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Toxocariasis remains an important neglected parasitic infection representing one of the most common zoonotic infections caused by the parasite Toxocara canis or, less frequently, by Toxocara cati. The epidemiology of the disease is complex due to its transmission route by accidental ingestion of embryonated Toxocara eggs or larvae from tissues from domestic or wild paratenic hosts. Even though the World Health Organization and Centers for Disease Control classified toxocariasis amongst the top six parasitic infections of priority to public health, global epidemiological data regarding the relationship between seropositivity and toxocariasis is limited. Although the vast majority of the infected individuals remain asymptomatic or experience a mild disease, the infection is associated with important health and socioeconomic consequences, particularly in underprivileged, tropical, and subtropical areas. Toxocariasis is a disease with multiple clinical presentations, which are classified into five distinct forms: the classical visceral larva migrans, ocular toxocariasis, common toxocariasis, covert toxocariasis, and cerebral toxocariasis or neurotoxocariasis. Anthelmintic agents, for example, albendazole or mebendazole, are the recommended treatment, whereas a combination with topical or systemic corticosteroids for specific forms is suggested. Prevention strategies include educational programs, behavioral and hygienic changes, enhancement of the role of veterinarians, and anthelmintic regimens to control active infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrin Henke
- Department of Internal Medicine, Thun Hospital, Krankenhausstrasse 12, 3600 Thun, Switzerland;
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Inselspital, University Hospital, University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland; (S.N.); (A.K.E.); (J.K.-R.)
| | - Sotirios Ntovas
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Inselspital, University Hospital, University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland; (S.N.); (A.K.E.); (J.K.-R.)
- Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, lnselspital, University Hospital, University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Eleni Xourgia
- Department of Heart Surgery, lnselspital, University Hospital, University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland;
| | - Aristomenis K. Exadaktylos
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Inselspital, University Hospital, University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland; (S.N.); (A.K.E.); (J.K.-R.)
| | - Jolanta Klukowska-Rötzler
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Inselspital, University Hospital, University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland; (S.N.); (A.K.E.); (J.K.-R.)
| | - Mairi Ziaka
- Department of Internal Medicine, Thun Hospital, Krankenhausstrasse 12, 3600 Thun, Switzerland;
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Inselspital, University Hospital, University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland; (S.N.); (A.K.E.); (J.K.-R.)
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Xu W, Zou X, Zha Y, Zhang J, Bian H, Shen Z. Novel Bis-Artemisinin-Phloroglucinol hybrid molecules with dual anticancer and immunomodulatory Activities: Synthesis and evaluation. Bioorg Chem 2023; 139:106705. [PMID: 37406517 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2023.106705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
Bis-(10-deoxydihydroartemisinin)-phloroglucinol (9), has been synthesized in a one-step reaction and has demonstrated strong inhibition to cancer cell proliferation and immunosuppressive activity. The structure modification of the compound reduced its cytotoxicity, and among the analogs, bis-(10-deoxydihydroartemisinin)-phloroglucinol phenyl decanoate (16) showed significant reduction of ear swelling in a mouse model for DNFB-induced delayed-type hypersensitivity without observable toxicity in a dose-dependent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Xu
- School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 280 South Chongqing Road, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Xiaosu Zou
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1200 Cai Lun Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Yufeng Zha
- Yunnan Baiyao Group Co. Ltd., 3686 Yunnan Baiyao Street, Kunming 650200, China
| | - Jinghua Zhang
- School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 280 South Chongqing Road, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Hongzhu Bian
- Yunnan Baiyao Group Co. Ltd., 3686 Yunnan Baiyao Street, Kunming 650200, China
| | - Zhengwu Shen
- School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 280 South Chongqing Road, Shanghai 200025, China; School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1200 Cai Lun Road, Shanghai 201203, China.
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Ji H, Jin H, Li G, Jin L, Ren X, Lv Y, Wang Y. Artemisinin protects against cerebral ischemia and reperfusion injury via inhibiting the NF-κB pathway. Open Med (Wars) 2022; 17:871-881. [PMID: 35950034 PMCID: PMC9096231 DOI: 10.1515/med-2022-0435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2021] [Revised: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
This study investigated whether artemisinin (ART) exerts a neuroprotective effect against cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. Hypoxia-glucose deprivation and reoxygenation (OGD/R) of SH-SY5Y cells were used as the I/R injury model in vitro. Cell viability was determined using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release was measured. Cell apoptosis and apoptosis-associated protein expression were determined via flow cytometry and western blotting, respectively. The levels of glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, catalase, and malondialdehyde were determined. The secretion of tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-1β was measured using ELISA. The activation of the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) pathway was also determined. The indicated ART concentrations (0, 25, 50, 75, and 100 μM) had no significant effect on SH-SY5Y cell viability and LDH activity. ART promoted cell viability, reduced cell apoptosis, repressed cellular inflammation, and inhibited cellular oxidative stress and NF-κB signaling pathway in OGD/R-induced SH-SY5Y cells. In addition, all the protective effects of ART on OGD/R-induced SH-SY5Y cell injury were significantly reversed by an NF-κB agonist. In conclusion, ART protects neurons from OGD/R-induced damage in vitro by inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway. These results suggest that ART may be a potential agent for the treatment of cerebral I/R injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Ji
- Department of Basic Medicine, Qiqihar Medical University , Qiqihar , Heilongjiang 161006 , China
| | - Haifeng Jin
- Department of Basic Medicine, Qiqihar Medical University , Qiqihar , Heilongjiang 161006 , China
| | - Guangwei Li
- Department of Basic Medicine, Qiqihar Medical University , Qiqihar , Heilongjiang 161006 , China
| | - Li Jin
- Department of Basic Medicine, Qiqihar Medical University , Qiqihar , Heilongjiang 161006 , China
| | - Xiaoxu Ren
- Department of Basic Medicine, Qiqihar Medical University , Qiqihar , Heilongjiang 161006 , China
| | - Ying Lv
- Department of Basic Medicine, Qiqihar Medical University , Qiqihar , Heilongjiang 161006 , China
| | - Yuchun Wang
- College of Pharmacy, Qiqihar Medical University , Qiqihar , Heilongjiang 161006 , China
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Wang S, Ma Y, Wang W, Dai Y, Sun H, Li J, Wang S, Li F. Status and prospect of novel treatment options toward alveolar and cystic echinococcosis. Acta Trop 2022; 226:106252. [PMID: 34808118 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2021.106252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Revised: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Cystic echinococcosis (CE) and alveolar echinococcosis (AE) are the two most important global parasitic infectious diseases caused by species of Echinococcus granulosus and E. multilocularis, respectively. Although numerous trials have been performed in search of novel therapeutic options to curb the neglected zoonosis, no other nonsurgical options are currently available to replace the licensed anti echinococcal drugs albendazole (ABZ) and mebendazole (MBZ). A safer and more effective treatment plan for echinococcosis is therefore urgently needed to compensate for this therapeutic shortfall. Here, we present a review of the literature for state-of-the-art valuable anti-parasitic compounds and novel strategies that have proved effective against CE and AE, which includes details about the pharmaceutical type, practical approach, experimental plan, model application and protoscolecidal effects in vivo and in vitro. The content includes the current application of traditional clinical chemicals, the preparation of new compounds with various drug loadings, repurposing findings, combined programs, the prospects for Chinese herbal medicines, non-drug administrations and the exploration of target inhibitors based on open-source information for parasitic genes. Next the conventional experimental projects and pharmacodynamic evaluation methods are systematically summarized and evaluated. The demands to optimize the construction of the echinococcosis model and improve the dynamic monitoring method in vivo are also discussed given the shortcomings of in vivo models and monitoring methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sibo Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Yibo Ma
- Laboratory of Translational Medicine, School of Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832000, Xinjiang, China
| | - Weishan Wang
- Laboratory of Translational Medicine, School of Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832000, Xinjiang, China
| | - Yi Dai
- Laboratory of Translational Medicine, School of Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832000, Xinjiang, China
| | - Haohao Sun
- Laboratory of Translational Medicine, School of Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832000, Xinjiang, China
| | - Jing Li
- Laboratory of Translational Medicine, School of Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832000, Xinjiang, China
| | - Shan Wang
- Laboratory of Translational Medicine, School of Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832000, Xinjiang, China.
| | - Feng Li
- Department of Orthopedics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China.
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11
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The Regulatory Effects and the Signaling Pathways of Natural Bioactive Compounds on Ferroptosis. Foods 2021; 10:foods10122952. [PMID: 34945503 PMCID: PMC8700948 DOI: 10.3390/foods10122952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural bioactive compounds abundantly presented in foods and medicinal plants have recently received a remarkable attention because of their various biological activities and minimal toxicity. In recent years, many natural compounds appear to offer significant effects in the regulation of ferroptosis. Ferroptosis is the forefront of international scientific research which has been exponential growth since the term was coined. This type of regulated cell death is driven by iron-dependent phospholipid peroxidation. Recent studies have shown that numerous organ injuries and pathophysiological processes of many diseases are driven by ferroptosis, such as cancer, arteriosclerosis, neurodegenerative disease, diabetes, ischemia-reperfusion injury and acute renal failure. It is reported that the initiation and inhibition of ferroptosis plays a pivotal role in lipid peroxidation, organ damage, neurodegeneration and cancer growth and progression. Recently, many natural phytochemicals extracted from edible plants have been demonstrated to be novel ferroptosis regulators and have the potential to treat ferroptosis-related diseases. This review provides an updated overview on the role of natural bioactive compounds and the potential signaling pathways in the regulation of ferroptosis.
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12
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Peng Y, Ma Y, Bao Y, Liu Z, Chen L, Dai F, Li Z. Electrospun PLGA/SF/artemisinin composite nanofibrous membranes for wound dressing. Int J Biol Macromol 2021; 183:68-78. [PMID: 33892031 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2021.04.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2020] [Revised: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 04/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Combining biodegradable materials with natural plant components for wound dressing has been receiving significant attention. ART is a sesquiterpene lactone compound extracted from Artemisia annua L., possessing multiple pharmacological effects including antibacterial activity and anti-inflammatory property. Herein, the blended polylactic acid glycolic acid (PLGA)/silk fibroin (SF) membranes loaded with artemisinin (ART) are fabricated through electrospinning. With aid of SF, the fabricated membranes have a good sustained-release effect, and the accumulated ART release can reach 69% after three weeks. PLGA/SF/ART membranes exhibit favorable anti-inflammatory and cell compatibility in vitro evaluations. The in vivo experiment indicates that PLGA/SF/ART2 membranes can shorten the inflammation period and enhance skin regeneration in a full-thickness wound model through down-regulating the expressions of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β and TNF-α. To sum up, the fabricated PLGA/SF/ART2 composite membranes with anti-inflammatory properties can be a proposal wound dressing for chronic wound healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China; Chongqing Engineering Research Center of Biomaterial Fiber and Modern Textile, College of Sericulture, Textile and Biomass Science, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Yan Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China; Chongqing Engineering Research Center of Biomaterial Fiber and Modern Textile, College of Sericulture, Textile and Biomass Science, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Yu Bao
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China; Chongqing Engineering Research Center of Biomaterial Fiber and Modern Textile, College of Sericulture, Textile and Biomass Science, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Zulan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China; Chongqing Engineering Research Center of Biomaterial Fiber and Modern Textile, College of Sericulture, Textile and Biomass Science, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Li Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China; Chongqing Engineering Research Center of Biomaterial Fiber and Modern Textile, College of Sericulture, Textile and Biomass Science, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Fangyin Dai
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China; Key Laboratory for Sericulture Biology and Genetic Breeding, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China; Chongqing Engineering Research Center of Biomaterial Fiber and Modern Textile, College of Sericulture, Textile and Biomass Science, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China.
| | - Zhi Li
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China; Chongqing Engineering Research Center of Biomaterial Fiber and Modern Textile, College of Sericulture, Textile and Biomass Science, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China.
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Efferth T, Oesch F. The immunosuppressive activity of artemisinin-type drugs towards inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Med Res Rev 2021; 41:3023-3061. [PMID: 34288018 DOI: 10.1002/med.21842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2020] [Revised: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The sesquiterpene lactone artemisinin from Artemisia annua L. is well established for malaria therapy, but its bioactivity spectrum is much broader. In this review, we give a comprehensive and timely overview of the literature regarding the immunosuppressive activity of artemisinin-type compounds toward inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Numerous receptor-coupled signaling pathways are inhibited by artemisinins, including the receptors for interleukin-1 (IL-1), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), β3-integrin, or RANKL, toll-like receptors and growth factor receptors. Among the receptor-coupled signal transducers are extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase (ERK), c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase (PI3K), AKT serine/threonine kinase (AKT), mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)/extracellular signal regulated kinase (ERK) kinase (MEK), phospholipase C γ1 (PLCγ), and others. All these receptors and signal transduction molecules are known to contribute to the inhibition of the transcription factor nuclear factor κ B (NF-κB). Artemisinins may inhibit NF-κB by silencing these upstream pathways and/or by direct binding to NF-κB. Numerous NF-κB-regulated downstream genes are downregulated by artemisinin and its derivatives, for example, cytokines, chemokines, and immune receptors, which regulate immune cell differentiation, apoptosis genes, proliferation-regulating genes, signal transducers, and genes involved in antioxidant stress response. In addition to the prominent role of NF-κB, other transcription factors are also inhibited by artemisinins (mammalian target of rapamycin [mTOR], activating protein 1 [AP1]/FBJ murine osteosarcoma viral oncogene homologue [FOS]/JUN oncogenic transcription factor [JUN]), hypoxia-induced factor 1α (HIF-1α), nuclear factor of activated T cells c1 (NF-ATC1), Signal transducers and activators of transcription (STAT), NF E2-related factor-2 (NRF-2), retinoic-acid-receptor-related orphan nuclear receptor γ (ROR-γt), and forkhead box P-3 (FOXP-3). Many in vivo experiments in disease-relevant animal models demonstrate therapeutic efficacy of artemisinin-type drugs against rheumatic diseases (rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, lupus erythematosus, arthrosis, and gout), lung diseases (asthma, acute lung injury, and pulmonary fibrosis), neurological diseases (autoimmune encephalitis, Alzheimer's disease, and myasthenia gravis), skin diseases (dermatitis, rosacea, and psoriasis), inflammatory bowel disease, and other inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Randomized clinical trials should be conducted in the future to translate the plethora of preclinical results into clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Efferth
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Franz Oesch
- Oesch-Tox Toxicological Consulting and Expert Opinions, Ingelheim, Germany and Institute of Toxicology, Johannes Gutenberg University of Mainz, Mainz, Germany
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Meng Y, Ma N, Lyu H, Wong YK, Zhang X, Zhu Y, Gao P, Sun P, Song Y, Lin L, Wang J. Recent pharmacological advances in the repurposing of artemisinin drugs. Med Res Rev 2021; 41:3156-3181. [PMID: 34148245 DOI: 10.1002/med.21837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 02/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Artemisinins are a family of sesquiterpene lactones originally derived from the sweet wormwood (Artemisia annua). Beyond their well-characterized role as frontline antimalarial drugs, artemisinins have also received increased attention for other potential pharmaceutical effects, which include antiviral, antiparsitic, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer activities. With concerted efforts in further preclinical and clinical studies, artemisinin-based drugs have the potential to be viable treatments for a great variety of human diseases. Here, we provide a comprehensive update on recent reports of pharmacological actions and applications of artemisinins outside of their better-known antimalarial role and highlight their potential therapeutic viability for various diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuqing Meng
- Artemisinin Research Center and the Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Nan Ma
- Artemisinin Research Center and the Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Haining Lyu
- Artemisinin Research Center and the Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yin Kwan Wong
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Xing Zhang
- Artemisinin Research Center and the Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yongping Zhu
- Artemisinin Research Center and the Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Peng Gao
- Artemisinin Research Center and the Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Peng Sun
- Artemisinin Research Center and the Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yali Song
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Dongguan Maternal And Child Health Care Hospital, Southern Medical University, Dongguan, China
| | - Lizhu Lin
- Oncology Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jigang Wang
- Artemisinin Research Center and the Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.,Oncology Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Central People's Hospital of Zhanjiang, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, Ministry of Education, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, China
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15
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Zhao Y, Long Z, Liu Y, Luo M, Qiu Y, Idris NFB, Song A, Wang K, He G. Dihydroartemisinin Ameliorates Decreased Neuroplasticity-Associated Proteins and Excessive Neuronal Apoptosis in APP/PS1 Mice. Curr Alzheimer Res 2021; 17:916-925. [PMID: 33327914 DOI: 10.2174/1567205017666201215124746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Revised: 09/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alzheimer's disease (AD) is one of the worst neurodegenerative disorders worldwide, with extracellular senile plaques (SP), subsequent intracellular neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) and final neuron loss and synaptic dysfunction as the main pathological characteristics. Excessive apoptosis is the main cause of irreversible neuron loss. Thus, therapeutic intervention for these pathological features has been considered a promising strategy to treat or prevent AD. Dihydroartemisin (DHA) is a widely used first-line drug for malaria. Our previous study showed that DHA treatment significantly accelerated Aβ clearance, improved memory and cognitive deficits in vivo and restored autophagic flux both in vivo and in vitro. METHODS The present study intended to explore the neuroprotective effect of DHA on neuron loss in APP/PS1 double-transgenic mice and the underlying mechanisms involved. Transmission electron microscope (TEM) analysis showed that DHA significantly reduced the swollen endoplasmic reticulum (ER) in APP/PS1 mice. Western blot analysis indicated that DHA upregulated the level of NeuN, NeuroD, MAP2, and synaptophysin and promoted neurite outgrowth. Meanwhile, DHA greatly corrected the abnormal levels of Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and rescued the neuronal loss in the hippocampal CA1 area. Western blot analysis revealed that DHA notably down-regulated the protein expression of full length caspase-3, cleaved caspase-3 and Bax. In parallel, the expression of the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2 increased after oral DHA treatment. RESULTS Altogether, these results indicate that DHA protected AD mice from neuron loss via promoting the expression of BDNF and other neuroplasticity-associated proteins and suppressing the inhibition of neuronal apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yueyang Zhao
- Neuroscience Research Center, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Zhimin Long
- Neuroscience Research Center, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Yuanjie Liu
- Neuroscience Research Center, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Min Luo
- Department of Pathology, Suining Municipal Hospital of TCM, Suining City, Si Chuan Province, 629000, China
| | - Yu Qiu
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and Biomedical Sciences, Chongqing Municipal Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedical Engineering of Higher Education, College of Stomatology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 401147, China
| | - Nur F B Idris
- Neuroscience Research Center, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Aijia Song
- Laboratory of Medical Experiment Technology, Institute of Life Science, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Kejian Wang
- Neuroscience Research Center, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Guiqiong He
- Neuroscience Research Center, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
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16
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Traditional application and modern pharmacological research of Artemisia annua L. Pharmacol Ther 2020; 216:107650. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2020.107650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Revised: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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17
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Yang J, He Y, Li Y, Zhang X, Wong YK, Shen S, Zhong T, Zhang J, Liu Q, Wang J. Advances in the research on the targets of anti-malaria actions of artemisinin. Pharmacol Ther 2020; 216:107697. [PMID: 33035577 PMCID: PMC7537645 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2020.107697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2020] [Revised: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Malaria has been a global epidemic health threat since ancient times. It still claims roughly half a million lives every year in this century. Artemisinin and its derivatives, are frontline antimalarial drugs known for their efficacy and low toxicity. After decades of wide use, artemisinins remain our bulwark against malaria. Here, we review decades of efforts that aim to understand the mechanism of action (MOA) of artemisinins, which help explain the specificity and potency of this anti-malarial drug. We summarize the methods and approaches employed to unravel the MOA of artemisinin over the last three decades, showing how the development of advanced techniques can help provide mechanistic insights and resolve some long-standing questions in the field of artemisinin research. We also provide examples to illustrate how to better repurpose artemisinins for anti-cancer therapies by leveraging on MOA. These examples point out a practical direction to engineer artemisinin for broader applications beyond malaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Yang
- Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, Ministry of Education, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, China; Artemisinin Research Center, and Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yingke He
- Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, Ministry of Education, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, China; Department of Anaesthesiology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore
| | - Yinbao Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, JiangXi 341000, China
| | - Xing Zhang
- Artemisinin Research Center, and Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yin-Kwan Wong
- Artemisinin Research Center, and Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Shengnan Shen
- Artemisinin Research Center, and Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Tianyu Zhong
- Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, Ministry of Education, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, China; Laboratory Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, China.
| | - Jianbin Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Qian Liu
- Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, Ministry of Education, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, China.
| | - Jigang Wang
- Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, Ministry of Education, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, China; Artemisinin Research Center, and Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China; Central People's Hospital of Zhanjiang, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
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18
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Hui Y, Wang X, Yu Z, Fan X, Cui B, Zhao T, Mao L, Feng H, Lin L, Yu Q, Zhang J, Wang B, Chen X, Zhao X, Sun C. Scoparone as a therapeutic drug in liver diseases: Pharmacology, pharmacokinetics and molecular mechanisms of action. Pharmacol Res 2020; 160:105170. [DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.105170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Revised: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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19
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Septembre-Malaterre A, Lalarizo Rakoto M, Marodon C, Bedoui Y, Nakab J, Simon E, Hoarau L, Savriama S, Strasberg D, Guiraud P, Selambarom J, Gasque P. Artemisia annua, a Traditional Plant Brought to Light. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E4986. [PMID: 32679734 PMCID: PMC7404215 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21144986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Revised: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Traditional remedies have been used for thousand years for the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases, particularly in developing countries. Of growing interest, the plant Artemisia annua, known for its malarial properties, has been studied for its numerous biological activities including metabolic, anti-tumor, anti-microbial and immunomodulatory properties. Artemisia annua is very rich in secondary metabolites such as monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes and phenolic compounds, of which the biological properties have been extensively studied. The purpose of this review is to gather and describe the data concerning the main chemical components produced by Artemisia annua and to describe the state of the art about the biological activities reported for this plant and its compounds beyond malaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Axelle Septembre-Malaterre
- Unité de recherche Etudes Pharmaco-Immunologie (EPI), Université de La Réunion, CHU La Réunion site Félix Guyon, Allée des Topazes, CS11021, 97400 Saint Denis de La Réunion, France; (P.G.); (J.S.); (P.G.)
| | - Mahary Lalarizo Rakoto
- Faculté de Médecine, Université d’Antananarivo, Campus Universitaire Ambohitsaina, BP 375, Antananarivo 101, Madagascar;
| | - Claude Marodon
- APLAMEDOM Réunion, 1, rue Emile Hugot, Batiment B, Parc Technologique de Saint Denis, 97490 Sainte Clotilde, La Réunion, France; (C.M.); (J.N.); (E.S.); (L.H.)
| | - Yosra Bedoui
- INSERM, UMR 1188 Diabète athérothrombose Thérapies Réunion Océan Indien (DéTROI), Université de La Réunion, 97400 Saint Denis de La Réunion, France;
| | - Jessica Nakab
- APLAMEDOM Réunion, 1, rue Emile Hugot, Batiment B, Parc Technologique de Saint Denis, 97490 Sainte Clotilde, La Réunion, France; (C.M.); (J.N.); (E.S.); (L.H.)
| | - Elisabeth Simon
- APLAMEDOM Réunion, 1, rue Emile Hugot, Batiment B, Parc Technologique de Saint Denis, 97490 Sainte Clotilde, La Réunion, France; (C.M.); (J.N.); (E.S.); (L.H.)
| | - Ludovic Hoarau
- APLAMEDOM Réunion, 1, rue Emile Hugot, Batiment B, Parc Technologique de Saint Denis, 97490 Sainte Clotilde, La Réunion, France; (C.M.); (J.N.); (E.S.); (L.H.)
| | - Stephane Savriama
- EA929 Archéologie Industrielle, Histoire, Patrimoine/Géographie-Développement Environnement de la Caraïbe (AIHP-GEODE), Université des Antilles, Campus Schoelcher, BP7207, 97275 Schoelcher Cedex Martinique, France;
| | - Dominique Strasberg
- Unité Mixte de Recherche Peuplements Végétaux et Bio-agresseurs en Milieu Tropical (PVBMT), Pôle de Protection des Plantes, Université de La Réunion, 7 Chemin de l’IRAT, 97410 Saint-Pierre, La Réunion, France;
| | - Pascale Guiraud
- Unité de recherche Etudes Pharmaco-Immunologie (EPI), Université de La Réunion, CHU La Réunion site Félix Guyon, Allée des Topazes, CS11021, 97400 Saint Denis de La Réunion, France; (P.G.); (J.S.); (P.G.)
| | - Jimmy Selambarom
- Unité de recherche Etudes Pharmaco-Immunologie (EPI), Université de La Réunion, CHU La Réunion site Félix Guyon, Allée des Topazes, CS11021, 97400 Saint Denis de La Réunion, France; (P.G.); (J.S.); (P.G.)
| | - Philippe Gasque
- Unité de recherche Etudes Pharmaco-Immunologie (EPI), Université de La Réunion, CHU La Réunion site Félix Guyon, Allée des Topazes, CS11021, 97400 Saint Denis de La Réunion, France; (P.G.); (J.S.); (P.G.)
- Laboratoire d’immunologie clinique et expérimentale de la zone de l’océan indien (LICE-OI) CHU La Réunion site Félix Guyon, Allée des Topazes, CS11021, 97400 Saint Denis de La Réunion, France
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Zheng XY, Xu XJ, Liu YY, Xu YJ, Pan SX, Zeng XY, Yi Q, Xiao N, Lin LF. Age-standardized mortality, disability-adjusted life-years and healthy life expectancy in different cultural regions of Guangdong, China: a population-based study of 2005-2015. BMC Public Health 2020; 20:858. [PMID: 32503557 PMCID: PMC7275520 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-8420-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2019] [Accepted: 02/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Guangdong province is dominated by three cultural regions: Canton, Hakka and Hoklo. However, little is known about the disease burden within these regions, particularly because different population,environmental and socioeconomic risk factors might cause different patterns of mortality, disability-adjusted life-years (DALY), life expectancy and healthy life expectancy (HALE). We aimed to compare the patterns of disease burden in Canton, Hakka and Hoklo regions between 2005 and 2015. METHOD We calculated the mortality, YLL, YLD for 116 diseases for different cultural regions between 2005 and 2015. We calculated the DALYs for 116 causes as the sum of YLLs and YLDs. We estimated the life expectancy and HALE by using sex-specific mortality rates and YLDs for the three cultural regions. RESULTS With a respective reduction of 22.3, 15.8 and 17.8% in 2015 compared with 2005, the age-standardized DALY rates in 2015 was 19,988.0, 14,396.5 and 20,436.6 in Hakka, Canton and Hoklo region. Canton region had a significantly lower mortality and DALYs in most diseases, followed by Hoklo and Hakka regions. The life expectancy and HALE at birth were highest in Canton region in both 2005 and 2015, than in Hoklo and Hakka region. CONCLUSIONS Our findings call for improved public health care via the refinement of policy and effective measures for disease prevention. Understanding the environmental and culture-related risk factors of diseases in Hoklo and Hakka regions may help inform public health sectors to reduce the disease burden and the between-region inequality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue-Yan Zheng
- Institute of Non-Communicable Disease Control and Prevention, Guangdong Provincial Center for Disease Control And Prevention, 160 Qunxian Road, Panyu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiao-Jun Xu
- Institute of Non-Communicable Disease Control and Prevention, Guangdong Provincial Center for Disease Control And Prevention, 160 Qunxian Road, Panyu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yi-Yang Liu
- Institute of Non-Communicable Disease Control and Prevention, Guangdong Provincial Center for Disease Control And Prevention, 160 Qunxian Road, Panyu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yan-Jun Xu
- Institute of Non-Communicable Disease Control and Prevention, Guangdong Provincial Center for Disease Control And Prevention, 160 Qunxian Road, Panyu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Si-Xing Pan
- Institute of Non-Communicable Disease Control and Prevention, Guangdong Provincial Center for Disease Control And Prevention, 160 Qunxian Road, Panyu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xin-Ying Zeng
- National Center for Chronic and Non-Communicable Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Qian Yi
- Institute of Non-Communicable Disease Control and Prevention, Guangdong Provincial Center for Disease Control And Prevention, 160 Qunxian Road, Panyu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ni Xiao
- Institute of Non-Communicable Disease Control and Prevention, Guangdong Provincial Center for Disease Control And Prevention, 160 Qunxian Road, Panyu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Li-Feng Lin
- Institute of Non-Communicable Disease Control and Prevention, Guangdong Provincial Center for Disease Control And Prevention, 160 Qunxian Road, Panyu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
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21
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Fairweather I, Brennan GP, Hanna REB, Robinson MW, Skuce PJ. Drug resistance in liver flukes. Int J Parasitol Drugs Drug Resist 2020; 12:39-59. [PMID: 32179499 PMCID: PMC7078123 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2019.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2019] [Revised: 11/19/2019] [Accepted: 11/20/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Liver flukes include Fasciola hepatica, Fasciola gigantica, Clonorchis sinensis, Opisthorchis spp., Fascioloides magna, Gigantocotyle explanatum and Dicrocoelium spp. The two main species, F. hepatica and F. gigantica, are major parasites of livestock and infections result in huge economic losses. As with C. sinensis, Opisthorchis spp. and Dicrocoelium spp., they affect millions of people worldwide, causing severe health problems. Collectively, the group is referred to as the Food-Borne Trematodes and their true significance is now being more widely recognised. However, reports of resistance to triclabendazole (TCBZ), the most widely used anti-Fasciola drug, and to other current drugs are increasing. This is a worrying scenario. In this review, progress in understanding the mechanism(s) of resistance to TCBZ is discussed, focusing on tubulin mutations, altered drug uptake and changes in drug metabolism. There is much interest in the development of new drugs and drug combinations, the re-purposing of non-flukicidal drugs, and the development of new drug formulations and delivery systems; all this work will be reviewed. Sound farm management practices also need to be put in place, with effective treatment programmes, so that drugs can be used wisely and their efficacy conserved as much as is possible. This depends on reliable advice being given by veterinarians and other advisors. Accurate diagnosis and identification of drug-resistant fluke populations is central to effective control: to determine the actual extent of the problem and to determine how well or otherwise a treatment has worked; for research on establishing the mechanism of resistance (and identifying molecular markers of resistance); for informing treatment options; and for testing the efficacy of new drug candidates. Several diagnostic methods are available, but there are no recommended guidelines or standardised protocols in place and this is an issue that needs to be addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Fairweather
- School of Biological Sciences, The Queen's University of Belfast, 19 Chlorine Gardens, Belfast, BT9 5DL, UK.
| | - G P Brennan
- School of Biological Sciences, The Queen's University of Belfast, 19 Chlorine Gardens, Belfast, BT9 5DL, UK
| | - R E B Hanna
- Veterinary Sciences Division, Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI), Stormont, Belfast, BT4 3SD, UK
| | - M W Robinson
- School of Biological Sciences, The Queen's University of Belfast, 19 Chlorine Gardens, Belfast, BT9 5DL, UK
| | - P J Skuce
- Disease Control, Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Penicuik, Edinburgh, EH26 0PZ, UK
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22
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Ma L, Wang H, Wang J, Liu L, Zhang S, Bu M. Novel Steroidal 5α,8α-Endoperoxide Derivatives with Semicarbazone/Thiosemicarbazone Side-chain as Apoptotic Inducers through an Intrinsic Apoptosis Pathway: Design, Synthesis and Biological Studies. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25051209. [PMID: 32156024 PMCID: PMC7179397 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25051209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2020] [Revised: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
A series of novel steroidal 5α,8α-endoperoxide derivatives bearing semicarbazone (7a–g) or thiosemicarbazone (7h–k) side chain were designed, synthesized and evaluated for their cytotoxicities in four human cancer cell lines (HepG2, HCT-116, MCF-7, and A549) using the MTT assay in vitro. The results showed that compound 7j exhibited significant cytotoxic activity against HepG2 cells (IC50 = 3.52 μM), being more potent than ergosterol peroxide. Further cellular mechanism studies in HepG2 cells indicated that compound 7j triggered the mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis by decreasing mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), which was associated with up-regulation of Bax, down-regulation of Bcl-2, activation levels of the caspase cascade, and formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The above findings indicated that compound 7j may be used as a promising skeleton for antitumor agents with improved efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liwei Ma
- Research Institute of Medicine & Pharmacy, Qiqihar Medical University, Qiqihar 161006, China;
| | - Haijun Wang
- College of Pharmacy, Qiqihar Medical University, Qiqihar 161006, China; (H.W.); (J.W.); (L.L.)
| | - Jing Wang
- College of Pharmacy, Qiqihar Medical University, Qiqihar 161006, China; (H.W.); (J.W.); (L.L.)
| | - Lei Liu
- College of Pharmacy, Qiqihar Medical University, Qiqihar 161006, China; (H.W.); (J.W.); (L.L.)
| | - Song Zhang
- Basic Medical Science College, Qiqihar Medical University, Qiqihar 161006, China;
| | - Ming Bu
- College of Pharmacy, Qiqihar Medical University, Qiqihar 161006, China; (H.W.); (J.W.); (L.L.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-0452-266-3881
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Zhao Y, Long Z, Ding Y, Jiang T, Liu J, Li Y, Liu Y, Peng X, Wang K, Feng M, He G. Dihydroartemisinin Ameliorates Learning and Memory in Alzheimer's Disease Through Promoting Autophagosome-Lysosome Fusion and Autolysosomal Degradation for Aβ Clearance. Front Aging Neurosci 2020; 12:47. [PMID: 32210783 PMCID: PMC7067048 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2020.00047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2019] [Accepted: 02/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Dihydroartemisinin (DHA) is an active metabolite of sesquiterpene trioxane lactone extracted from Artemisia annua, which is used to treat malaria worldwide. DHA can activate autophagy, which is the main mechanism to remove the damaged cell components and recover the harmful or useless substances from eukaryotic cells and maintain cell viability through the autophagy lysosomal degradation system. Autophagy activation and autophagy flux correction are playing an important neuroprotective role in the central nervous system, as they accelerate the removal of toxic protein aggregates intracellularly and extracellularly to prevent neurodegenerative processes, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). In this study, we explored whether this mechanism can mediate the neuroprotective effect of DHA on the AD model in vitro and in vivo. Three months of DHA treatment improved the memory and cognitive impairment, reduced the deposition of amyloid β plaque, reduced the levels of Aβ40 and Aβ42, and ameliorated excessive neuron apoptosis in APP/PS1 mice brain. In addition, DHA treatment increased the level of LC3 II/I and decreased the expression of p62. After Bafilomycin A1 and Chloroquine (CQ) blocked the fusion of autophagy and lysosome, as well as the degradation of autolysosomes (ALs), DHA treatment increased the level of LC3 II/I and decreased the expression of p62. These results suggest that DHA treatment can correct autophagic flux, improve autophagy dysfunction, inhibit abnormal death of neurons, promote the clearance of amyloid-β peptide (Aβ) fibrils, and have a multi-target effect on the neuropathological process, memory and cognitive deficits of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yueyang Zhao
- Neuroscience Research Center, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhimin Long
- Neuroscience Research Center, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Department of Human Anatomy, Basic Medical School, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ya Ding
- Neuroscience Research Center, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Tingting Jiang
- Neuroscience Research Center, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jiajun Liu
- Neuroscience Research Center, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yimin Li
- Neuroscience Research Center, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yuanjie Liu
- Neuroscience Research Center, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Department of Human Anatomy, Basic Medical School, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xuehua Peng
- Wuhan Children's Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Kejian Wang
- Neuroscience Research Center, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Department of Human Anatomy, Basic Medical School, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Min Feng
- Neuroscience Research Center, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Guiqiong He
- Neuroscience Research Center, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Department of Human Anatomy, Basic Medical School, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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Fu W, Ma Y, Li L, Liu J, Fu L, Guo Y, Zhang Z, Li J, Jiang H. Artemether Regulates Metaflammation to Improve Glycolipid Metabolism in db/db Mice. Diabetes Metab Syndr Obes 2020; 13:1703-1713. [PMID: 32547132 PMCID: PMC7245603 DOI: 10.2147/dmso.s240786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Artemether, a commonly used artemisinin derivative, has been shown to possess potential antidiabetic activities. However, only limited information is available on the mechanisms of artemether in type 2 diabetes. Therefore, in this study, we examined some of the possible mechanisms of artemether (ATM) upon glycolipid metabolism in the db/db mouse model of diabetes. MATERIALS AND METHODS Male C57BL/KsJ-db/db and C57BL/KsJ-db/+ mice at 4 weeks of age were divided into four groups (N=6/group): (1) NC (normal control - db/+ mice, 1% methylcellulose, intragastric administration), (2) DM (diabetic model - db/db mice, 1% methylcellulose, intragastric administration), (3) ATM 100 (DM + 100 mg/kg of artemether) and (4) ATM 200 (DM + 200 mg/kg of artemether). A number of assays related to diabetes were then performed following a 4-week period of these treatments. RESULTS Artemether at both doses significantly reduced rates of weight gain and fasting blood glucose levels, improved islet function and insulin resistance and reduced serum lipid levels to varying degrees in db/db mice. Artemether exerted a positive effect on islet vacuolar degeneration and hepatic steatosis, and increased expressions of AMP-activated protein kinase, glucose transporter 4 and Insulin receptor β protein in the liver of these db/db mice. With the use of liver protein chip detection, we found that artemether significantly improved the immune microenvironment, down-regulated the expression of inflammatory factors and activated the cytokine-mediated signaling pathway through cytokine-cytokine receptor interactions. CONCLUSION Artemether may regulate glycolipid metabolism in db/db mice by improving the immune microenvironment. The results of this study provide important new information that can serve as the foundation for future research into the use of artemether as a means to improve glycolipid metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Fu
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital and Clinical Medicine College, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang471003, People’s Republic of China
- National Center for Clinical Research of Metabolic Diseases, Luoyang Center for Endocrinology and Metabolism, Luoyang471003, People’s Republic of China
- Diabetic Nephropathy Academician Workstation of Henan Province, Luoyang471003, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yujin Ma
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital and Clinical Medicine College, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang471003, People’s Republic of China
- National Center for Clinical Research of Metabolic Diseases, Luoyang Center for Endocrinology and Metabolism, Luoyang471003, People’s Republic of China
- Diabetic Nephropathy Academician Workstation of Henan Province, Luoyang471003, People’s Republic of China
| | - Liping Li
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital and Clinical Medicine College, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang471003, People’s Republic of China
- National Center for Clinical Research of Metabolic Diseases, Luoyang Center for Endocrinology and Metabolism, Luoyang471003, People’s Republic of China
- Diabetic Nephropathy Academician Workstation of Henan Province, Luoyang471003, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jie Liu
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital and Clinical Medicine College, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang471003, People’s Republic of China
- National Center for Clinical Research of Metabolic Diseases, Luoyang Center for Endocrinology and Metabolism, Luoyang471003, People’s Republic of China
- Diabetic Nephropathy Academician Workstation of Henan Province, Luoyang471003, People’s Republic of China
| | - Liujun Fu
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital and Clinical Medicine College, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang471003, People’s Republic of China
- National Center for Clinical Research of Metabolic Diseases, Luoyang Center for Endocrinology and Metabolism, Luoyang471003, People’s Republic of China
- Diabetic Nephropathy Academician Workstation of Henan Province, Luoyang471003, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yu Guo
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital and Clinical Medicine College, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang471003, People’s Republic of China
- National Center for Clinical Research of Metabolic Diseases, Luoyang Center for Endocrinology and Metabolism, Luoyang471003, People’s Republic of China
- Diabetic Nephropathy Academician Workstation of Henan Province, Luoyang471003, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhiyin Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital and Clinical Medicine College, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang471003, People’s Republic of China
- National Center for Clinical Research of Metabolic Diseases, Luoyang Center for Endocrinology and Metabolism, Luoyang471003, People’s Republic of China
- Diabetic Nephropathy Academician Workstation of Henan Province, Luoyang471003, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jiaxi Li
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital and Clinical Medicine College, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang471003, People’s Republic of China
- National Center for Clinical Research of Metabolic Diseases, Luoyang Center for Endocrinology and Metabolism, Luoyang471003, People’s Republic of China
- Diabetic Nephropathy Academician Workstation of Henan Province, Luoyang471003, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hongwei Jiang
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital and Clinical Medicine College, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang471003, People’s Republic of China
- National Center for Clinical Research of Metabolic Diseases, Luoyang Center for Endocrinology and Metabolism, Luoyang471003, People’s Republic of China
- Diabetic Nephropathy Academician Workstation of Henan Province, Luoyang471003, People’s Republic of China
- Correspondence: Hongwei Jiang Endocrinology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital and Clinical Medicine College, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang471003, People’s Republic of ChinaTel +86 13653880139 Email
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25
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Yang J, Li H, Wang Z, Yu L, Liu Q, Niu X, Xu T, Wang Z. Dihydroartemisinin inhibits multiplication of Brucella suis vaccine strain 2 in murine microglia BV2 cells via stimulation of caspase‑dependent apoptosis. Mol Med Rep 2019; 20:4067-4072. [PMID: 31545433 PMCID: PMC6797990 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2019.10672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2018] [Accepted: 07/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Brucellosis, caused by a facultative intracellular parasite Brucella species, is the most common bacterial zoonotic infection worldwide. Brucella can survive and proliferate in several phagocytic and non‑phagocytic cell types. Human brucellosis has similar clinical symptoms with systemic diseases, which may lead to delay of diagnosis and increasing of complications. Therefore, investigating the proliferation of Brucella in host cells is important to understand the pathogenesis of the disease. Dihydroartemisinin (DHA), a semi‑synthetic derivative of artemisinin, has been recommended by World Health Organization as an anti‑malarial drug. However, there have been few studies regarding its effectiveness against bacteria. In the present study, it was revealed that B. suis vaccine strain 2 (S2) grew in BV2 cells without significant cytotoxicity, and less than 20 µM DHA had no inhibitory effects on BV2 cells. Furthermore, DHA reduced B. suis S2 growth in BV2 cells, and increased the percentage of apoptosis and the expression of cleaved caspase‑3 in B. suis S2‑infected cells. Collectively, the present data indicated that DHA induced the caspase‑dependent apoptotic pathway to inhibit the intracellular B. suis S2 growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Yang
- Department of Neurology, The General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region 750004, P.R. China
| | - Haining Li
- Department of Neurology, The General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region 750004, P.R. China
| | - Zhao Wang
- Department of Neurology, The General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region 750004, P.R. China
| | - Liming Yu
- Department of Neurology, The General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region 750004, P.R. China
| | - Qiang Liu
- Department of Neurology, The General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region 750004, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoyan Niu
- Department of Neurology, The General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region 750004, P.R. China
| | - Ting Xu
- Department of Neurology, The General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region 750004, P.R. China
| | - Zhenhai Wang
- Department of Neurology, The General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region 750004, P.R. China
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26
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An Abies procera-derived tetracyclic triterpene containing a steroid-like nucleus core and a lactone side chain attenuates in vitro survival of both Fasciola hepatica and Schistosoma mansoni. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-DRUGS AND DRUG RESISTANCE 2018; 8:465-474. [PMID: 30399512 PMCID: PMC6216039 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2018.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2018] [Revised: 10/22/2018] [Accepted: 10/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Two economically and biomedically important platyhelminth species, Fasciola hepatica (liver fluke) and Schistosoma mansoni (blood fluke), are responsible for the neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) fasciolosis and schistosomiasis. Due to the absence of prophylactic vaccines, these NTDs are principally managed by the single class chemotherapies triclabendazole (F. hepatica) and praziquantel (S. mansoni). Unfortunately, liver fluke resistance to triclabendazole has been widely reported and blood fluke insensitivity/resistance to praziquantel has been observed in both laboratory settings as well as in endemic communities. Therefore, the identification of new anthelmintics is necessary for the sustainable control of these NTDs in both animal and human populations. Here, continuing our work with phytochemicals, we isolated ten triterpenoids from the mature bark of Abies species and assessed their anthelmintic activities against F. hepatica and S. mansoni larval and adult lifecycle stages. Full 1H and 13C NMR-mediated structural elucidation of the two most active triterpenoids revealed that a tetracyclic steroid-like nucleus core and a lactone side chain are associated with the observed anthelmintic effects. When compared to representative mammalian cell lines (MDBK and HepG2), the most potent triterpenoid (700015; anthelmintic EC50s range from 0.7 μM–15.6 μM) displayed anthelmintic selectivity (selectivity indices for F. hepatica: 13 for newly excysted juveniles, 46 for immature flukes, 2 for mature flukes; selectivity indices for S. mansoni: 14 for schistosomula, 9 for immature flukes, 4 for adult males and 3 for adult females) and induced severe disruption of surface membranes in both liver and blood flukes. S. mansoni egg production, a process responsible for pathology in schistosomiasis, was also severely inhibited by 700015. Together, our results describe the structural elucidation of a novel broad acting anthelmintic triterpenoid and support further investigations developing this compound into more potent analogues for the control of both fasciolosis and schistosomiasis. Abies species contain anthelmintic phytochemical triterpenoids. The triterpenoid 700015 affects larval, juvenile and adult fluke viabilities. 700015 is moderately selective against both fluke species.
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