Schisandra fruits for the management of drug-induced liver injury in China: A review

NLRP3/1-mediated pyroptosis: beneficial clues for the development of novel therapies for Alzheimer's disease

The inflammasome is a multiprotein complex involved in innate immunity that mediates the inflammatory response leading to pyroptosis, which is a lytic, inflammatory form of cell death. There is accumulating evidence that nucleotide-binding domain and leucine-rich repeat pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome-mediated microglial pyroptosis and NLRP1 inflammasome-mediated neuronal pyroptosis in the brain are closely associated with the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease. In this review, we summarize the possible pathogenic mechanisms of Alzheimer's disease, focusing on neuroinflammation. We also describe the structures of NLRP3 and NLRP1 and the role their activation plays in Alzheimer's disease. Finally, we examine the neuroprotective activity of small-molecule inhibitors, endogenous inhibitor proteins, microRNAs, and natural bioactive molecules that target NLRP3 and NLRP1, based on the rationale that inhibiting NLRP3 and NLRP1 inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis can be an effective therapeutic strategy for Alzheimer's disease.

Improvement of nucleotide content of Cordyceps tenuipes by Schisandra chinensis: fermentation process optimization and application prospects

Nucleotides are important components and the main indicators for judging Cordyceps quality. In this paper, the mixed fermentation process of Schisandra chinensis and Cordyceps tenuipes was systematically studied, and it was proposed that the fermentation products aqueous extract (S-ZAE) had antioxidant activity and anti-AChE ability. Herein, the results of a single factor showed that S. chinensis, yeast extract, inoculum amount, and pH had significant effects on nucleotide synthesis. The fermentation process optimization results were 3% glucose, 0.25% KH2PO4, 2.1% yeast extract, and S. chinensis 0.49% (m/v), the optimal fermentation conditions were 25℃, inoculum 5.8% (v/v), pH 3.8, 6 d. The yield of total nucleotides in the scale-up culture was 0.64 ± 0.027 mg/mL, which was 10.6 times higher than before optimization. S-ZAE has good antioxidant and anti-AChE activities (IC50 0.50 ± 0.050 mg/mL). This fermentation method has the advantage of industrialization, and its fermentation products have the potential to become good functional foods or natural therapeutic agents.

Progress in approved drugs from natural product resources

Natural products (NPs) have consistently played a pivotal role in pharmaceutical research, exerting profound impacts on the treatment of human diseases. A significant proportion of approved molecular entity drugs are either directly derived from NPs or indirectly through modifications of NPs. This review presents an overview of NP drugs recently approved in China, the United States, and other countries, spanning various disease categories, including cancers, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, central nervous system disorders, and infectious diseases. The article provides a succinct introduction to the origin, activity, development process, approval details, and mechanism of action of these NP drugs.

Exploring the effect of Wuzhi capsule on the pharmacokinetics of regorafenib and its main metabolites in rat plasma using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry

Regorafenib is a small-molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitor with severe hepatotoxicity. It undergoes metabolism mainly by CYP3A4 to generate active metabolites regorafenib-N-oxide (M2) and N-desmethyl-regorafenib-N-oxide (M5). Wuzhi capsule (WZC) is an herbal preparation derived from Schisandra sphenanthera and is potentially used to prevent regorafenib-induced hepatotoxicity. This study aims to explore the effect of WZC on the pharmacokinetics of regorafenib in rats. An efficient and sensitive liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry method was developed to quantitatively determine regorafenib and its main metabolites in rat plasma. The proposed method was applied to the pharmacokinetic study of regorafenib in rats, with or without WZC. Coadministration of regorafenib with WZC resulted in a prolonged mean residence time (MRT) of the parent drug but had no statistically significant difference in other pharmacokinetic parameters. While for the main metabolites of regorafenib, WZC decreased the area under the curve and maximum concentration (Cmax ), delayed the time to reach Cmax , and prolonged the MRT of M2 and M5. These results indicate that WZC delayed and inhibited the metabolism of regorafenib to M2 and M5 by suppressing CYP3A4. Our study provides implications for the rational use of the WZC-regorafenib combination in clinical practice.

Medicinal patterns of vines used in Chinese herbal medicine: a quantitative study

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The botanical characteristics of twinning, climbing vine plants conceptually take shape to interlink the meridians and collaterals system throughout the human body by expelling climatic evils (e.g., wind, dampness). Thus, vines have displayed great medicinal properties in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM).

AIM OF THE STUDY

Although some popular vine species have been intensively investigated, the comparable features and medicinal specifications among a vast collection of taxonomic groups based on data visualization methods are relatively lacking in attention. Moreover, the translatability of vines from ancient ethnomedical evidence to modern medical system has not been well established. This review tends to quantitatively summarize the strength of vines in healthcare from the perspectives of medicinal part, traditional function, clinical spectrum, phytochemistry divergence, pharmacological attributes, toxicity as well as the progress of proprietary drug development.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Medicinal vines were retrieved from databases of drug standards and curated catalogues. Synonyms of plant origin across different datasets were normalized by accepted scientific names in the World Flora Online. The distribution patterns and rank of plant origin, medicinal parts, traditional functions and target conditions, as well as the correlation between phytochemical composition and clinical applications were analyzed and visualized.

RESULTS

A total of 121 crude drugs from 36 families, 77 genera, 133 species of vines were obtained and analyzed. The Fabaceae, Menispermaceae and Rubiaceae were the highest ranked families of medicinal vines. Not surprisingly, stem was the most dominant medical part. Moreover, "eliminate wind" displayed a hub node in the traditional function co-occurrence network. In addition to joint impediment disorders, these vines particularly displayed a wide range of therapeutic modalities toward conditions from various organ systems. Chemotaxonomic properties-oriented phytochemical analysis was performed and the chemical diversity among medicinal vines complementarily determined a certain group of therapeutic domains. Particularly, the anti-inflammatory effect and antiarthritic effect were highlighted for treating rheumatic diseases. Using integral animal models and cultured cells, modern pharmacological actions of medicinal vines have been largely observed and validated according to their traditional ethnopharmacology. Furthermore, a small proportion of vine species are well-known toxic plants. Successful drug development pipelines in rheumatic, cardiovascular, liver, malignant and infectious diseases have offered the capacity to generate new treatment options that are being sought out from vine plants.

CONCLUSIONS

Medicinal vines are rich sources of Chinese Material Medica (CMM) and good fit for a variety of clinical manifestations beyond arthritis and rheumatic diseases. In addition to stem, other parts are also popular for both medicines and dietary supplements. Vine plants provide extensive biologically relevant chemical space for developing value-creating drugs. Thus, our analysis can be useful for further motivating and strengthening the preclinical and clinical research of vine-derived remedies.

Curcumin and analogues in mitigating liver injury and disease consequences: From molecular mechanisms to clinical perspectives

BACKGROUND

Liver injury is a prevalent global health concern, impacting a substantial number of individuals and leading to elevated mortality rates and socioeconomic burdens. Traditional primary treatment options encounter resource constraints and high costs, prompting exploration of alternative adjunct therapies, such as phytotherapy. Curcumin demonstrates significant therapeutic potential across various medical conditions, particularly emerging as a promising candidate for liver injury treatment.

PURPOSE

This study aims to provide current evidence maps of curcumin and its analogs in the context of liver injury, covering aspects of biosafety, toxicology, and clinical trials. Importantly, it seeks to summarize the intricate mechanisms modulated by curcumin.

METHODS

We conducted a comprehensive search of MEDLINE, Web of Science, and Embase up to July 2023. Titles and abstracts were reviewed to identify studies that met our eligibility criteria. The screening process involved three authors independently assessing the potential of curcumin mitigating liver injury and its disease consequences by reviewing titles, abstracts, and full texts.

RESULTS

Curcumin and its analogs have demonstrated low toxicity in vitro and in vivo. However, the limited bioavailability has hindered their advanced use in liver injury. This limitation can potentially be addressed by nano-curcumin and emerging drug delivery systems. Curcumin plays a role in alleviating liver injury by modulating the antioxidant system, as well as cellular and molecular pathways. The specific mechanisms involve multiple pathways, such as NF-κB, p38/MAPK, and JAK2/STAT3, and the pro-apoptosis Bcl-2/Bax/caspase-3 axis in damaged cells. Additionally, curcumin targets nutritional metabolism, regulating the substance in liver cells and tissues. The microenvironment associated with liver injury, like extracellular matrix and immune cells and factors, is also regulated by curcumin. Initial evaluation of curcumin and its analogs through 12 clinical trials demonstrates their potential application in liver injury.

CONCLUSION

Curcumin emerges as a promising phytomedicine for liver injury owing to its effectiveness in hepatoprotection and low toxicity profile. Nevertheless, in-depth investigations are warranted to unravel the complex mechanisms through which curcumin influences liver tissues and overall physiological milieu. Moreover, extensive clinical trials are essential to determine optimal curcumin dosage forms, maximizing its benefits and achieving favorable clinical outcomes.

Drug-induced liver injury and anti-hepatotoxic effect of herbal compounds: a metabolic mechanism perspective

BACKGROUND

Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is the most challenging and thought-provoking liver problem for hepatologists owing to unregulated medication usage in medical practices, nutritional supplements, and botanicals. Due to underreporting, analysis, and identification issues, clinically evaluated medication hepatotoxicity is prevalent yet hard to quantify.

PURPOSE

This review's primary objective is to thoroughly compare pharmaceutical drugs and herbal compounds that have undergone clinical trials, focusing on their metabolic mechanisms contributing to the onset of liver illnesses and their hepatoprotective effects.

METHODS

The data was gathered from several online sources, such as PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Web of Science, using appropriate keywords.

RESULTS

The prevalence of conventional and herbal medicine is rising. A comprehensive understanding of the metabolic mechanism is necessary to mitigate the hepatotoxicity induced by drugs and facilitate the incorporation or substitution of herbal medicine instead of pharmaceuticals. Moreover, pre-clinical pharmacological research has the potential to facilitate the development of natural products as therapeutic agents, displaying promising possibilities for their eventual clinical implementation.

CONCLUSIONS

Acetaminophen, isoniazid, rifampicin, diclofenac, and pyrogallol have been identified as the most often reported synthetic drugs that produce hepatotoxicity by oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, and fibrosis during the last several decades. Due to their ability to downregulate many factors (such as cytokines) and activate several enzyme/enzyme systems, herbal substances (such as Gingko biloba extract, curcumin, resveratrol, and silymarin) provide superior protection against harmful mechanisms which induce hepatotoxicity with fewer adverse effects than their synthetic counterparts.

Schisandrin treatment suppresses the proliferation, migration, invasion, and inflammatory responses of fibroblast-like synoviocytes from rheumatoid arthritis patients and attenuates synovial inflammation and joint destruction in CIA mice

BACKGROUND

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic autoimmune disease causing joint dysfunction. As disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) have poor efficacy in 20% to 25% of RA patients, additional novel RA medications are urgently needed. Schisandrin (SCH) has multiple therapeutic effects. However, whether SCH is effective against RA remains unknown.

PURPOSE

To investigate how SCH affects the abnormal behaviours of RA fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLSs) and further elucidate the underlying mechanism of SCH in RA FLSs and collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) mice.

METHODS

Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK8) assays were used to characterize cell viability. EdU assays were performed to assess cell proliferation. Annexin V-APC/PI assays were used to determine apoptosis. Transwell chamber assays were used to measure cell migration and invasion in vitro. RT-qPCR was used to assess proinflammatory cytokine and MMP mRNA expression. Western blotting was used to detect protein expression. RNA sequencing was performed to explore the potential downstream targets of SCH. CIA model mice were used to assess the treatment efficacy of SCH in vivo.

RESULTS

Treatments with SCH (50, 100, and 200 μΜ) inhibited RA FLSs proliferation, migration, invasion, and TNF-α-induced IL-6, IL-8, and CCL2 expression in a dose-dependent manner but did not affect RA FLSs viability or apoptosis. RNA sequencing and Reactome enrichment analysis indicated that SREBF1 might be the downstream target in SCH treatment. Furthermore, knockdown of SREBF1 exerted effects similar to those of SCH in inhibiting RA FLSs proliferation, migration, invasion, and TNF-α-induced expression of IL-6, IL-8, and CCL2. Both SCH treatment and SREBF1 knockdown decreased activation of the PI3K/AKT and NF-κB signalling pathways. Moreover, SCH ameliorated joint inflammation and cartilage and bone destruction in CIA model mice.

CONCLUSION

SCH controls the pathogenic behaviours of RA FLSs by targeting SREBF1-mediated activation of the PI3K/AKT and NF-κB signalling pathways. Our data suggest that SCH inhibits FLS-mediated synovial inflammation and joint damage and that SCH might have therapeutic potential for RA.

A Mixture of Fermented Schizandrae Fructus Pomace and Hoveniae Semen cum Fructus Extracts Synergistically Protects against Oxidative Stress-Mediated Liver Injury

Schizandrae Fructus (SF) and Hoveniae Semen cum Fructus (HSCF) have long been used as medicinal herbs for treating various diseases in Asian traditional medicine. In the current study, we investigated the protective effect of fermented SF pomace and HSCF extract 1:1 (w:w) combination mixture (MSH) against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced acute liver injury mice. After MSH (50-200 mg/kg) oral administration for 7 consecutive days, animals were injected intraperitoneally with CCl4 (0.5 mL/kg). Histopathological observation revealed that administration of MSH synergistically decreased the degeneration of hepatocytes and the infiltration of inflammatory cells induced by CCl4. Moreover, MSH administration reduced the activities of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and γ-glutamyl transpeptidase in serum, and mitigated apoptotic cell death in hepatic parenchyma. In addition, MSH alleviated CCl4-mediated lipid peroxidation by restoring endogenous antioxidants capacities including glutathione contents, superoxide dismutase, and catalase activities. In vitro assessments using tert-butyl hydroperoxide-induced oxidative stress in HepG2 cells revealed that MSH protects hepatocytes by lowering ROS generation and lipid peroxidation via upregulating the transcriptional activity of nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 and the expression of antioxidant genes. Furthermore, MSH synergistically attenuated the expression of proinflammatory cytokines in CCl4-injured liver and lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. Taken together, these findings suggest that MSH has the potential to prevent acute liver damage by effectively suppressing oxidative stress and inflammation.

Schisandrin C enhances cGAS-STING pathway activation and inhibits HBV replication

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Schisandra Chinensis (Turcz.) Baill. is a long-term used traditional Chinese medicine with the functions of tonifying the kidney and calming the heart, tonifying qi and engendering fluid. It can be used to treat insomnia and dreaminess, spermatorrhea, coughs, as well as liver and kidney deficiency of Yin or Yang Syndrome. Modern pharmacological studies have shown that Schisandra Chinensis regulates host immunity and exhibits anti-cancer, antiviral and liver-protecting effects. However, the specific mechanism by which Schisandra Chinensis modulates antiviral immunity is unknown.

AIM OF THE STUDY

We sought to explore the therapeutic effect of the active components of Schisandra Chinensis on anti-viral immunity and further investigate the underlying mechanism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Immunoblotting, quantitative real-time PCR, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, immunofluorescence, and immunoprecipitation were used to investigate the effect of schisandrin C (SC), one of the most abundant and biologically active components of Schisandra Chinensis, on the activation of cGAS-STING signaling pathway and the underlying mechanism. In addition, CMA-mediated STING activation and hydrodynamic injection-mediated HBV-replicating mouse model were used to investigate the effect of SC on the activation of STING signaling pathway and its antiviral effect in vivo.

RESULTS

SC promoted cGAS-STING pathway activation, accompanied by increased production of interferon β (IFN β) and downstream gene expression. Moreover, SC also exerted anti-HBV effects, reducing HBeAg, HBcAg, HBsAg, and HBV DNA levels in hydrodynamic injection-mediated HBV-replicating mouse model and elevating the production of IFN β and expression of interferon-stimulated genes (IFIT1, ISG15, and CXCL10). Mechanistically, SC could facilitate the interaction between TANK-binding kinase 1 (TBK1) and STING, which is important for IRF3 phosphorylation and production of IFN β.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study confirmed that SC enhances cGAS-STING pathway activation and inhibits HBV replication, as well as provides clues for chronic hepatitis B and other infectious diseases treated by SC.

Regorafenib inhibits EphA2 phosphorylation and leads to liver damage via the ERK/MDM2/p53 axis

The hepatotoxicity of regorafenib is one of the most noteworthy concerns for patients, however the mechanism is poorly understood. Hence, there is a lack of effective intervention strategies. Here, by comparing the target with sorafenib, we show that regorafenib-induced liver injury is mainly due to its nontherapeutic target Eph receptor A2 (EphA2). EphA2 deficiency attenuated liver damage and cell apoptosis under regorafenib treatment in male mice. Mechanistically, regorafenib inhibits EphA2 Ser897 phosphorylation and reduces ubiquitination of p53 by altering the intracellular localization of mouse double minute 2 (MDM2) by affecting the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)/MDM2 axis. Meanwhile, we found that schisandrin C, which can upregulate the phosphorylation of EphA2 at Ser897 also has protective effect against the toxicity in vivo. Collectively, our findings identify the inhibition of EphA2 Ser897 phosphorylation as a key cause of regorafenib-induced hepatotoxicity, and chemical activation of EphA2 Ser897 represents a potential therapeutic strategy to prevent regorafenib-induced hepatotoxicity.

Acetaminophen-induced liver injury: Molecular mechanism and treatments from natural products

Acetaminophen (APAP) is a widely used analgesic and antipyretic over-the-counter medicine worldwide. Hepatotoxicity caused by APAP overdose is one of the leading causes of acute liver failure (ALF) in the US and in some parts of Europe, limiting its clinical application. Excessive APAP metabolism depletes glutathione and increases N-acetyl-p-benzoquinoneimide (NAPQI) levels, leading to oxidative stress, DNA damage, and cell necrosis in the liver, which in turn leads to liver damage. Studies have shown that natural products such as polyphenols, terpenes, anthraquinones, and sulforaphane can activate the hepatocyte antioxidant defense system with Nrf2 as the core player, reduce oxidative stress damage, and protect the liver. As the key enzyme metabolizing APAP into NAPQI, cytochrome P450 enzymes are also considered to be intriguing target for the treatment of APAP-induced liver injury. Here, we systematically review the hepatoprotective activity and molecular mechanisms of the natural products that are found to counteract the hepatotoxicity caused by APAP, providing reference information for future preclinical and clinical trials of such natural products.

Schisandra B, a representative lignan from Schisandra chinensis, improves cisplatin-induced toxicity: An in vitro study

Schisandrin B (Scheme B) is the most abundant and active lignan monomer isolated from Schisandra chinensis. At present, most reports focus on its cardioprotective and hepatoprotective effects, however, the related reports on gastrointestinal protective effects are still limited. The study aims to evaluate the protective effect of Scheme B on cisplatin-induced rat intestinal crypt epithelial (IEC-6) cell injury and the possible molecular mechanisms. The results showed that Scheme B at 2.5, 5 and 10 μM could inhibit dose-dependently the reduction of cell activity induced by cisplatin exposure at 1 μM, decrease the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA), while increasing glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) to alleviate oxidative stress injury in IEC-6 cell lines. Meanwhile, Scheme B could relieve cisplatin-induced apoptosis by regulating PI3K/AKT and the downstream caspase signaling pathway. The results from flow cytometry analysis and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) staining also demonstrated the anti-apoptosis effect of Scheme B. Furthermore, Scheme B was found to reduce the inflammation associated with cell damage by evaluating the protein expressions of the nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathway. Importantly, Wnt/β-catenin, as a functional signaling pathway that drives intestinal self-recovery, was also in part regulated by Scheme B. In conclusion, Scheme B might alleviate cisplatin-induced IEC-6 cell damage by inhibiting oxidative stress, apoptosis, inflammation, and repairing intestinal barrier function. The present research provides a strong evidence that Scheme B may be a useful modulator in cisplatin-induced intestinal toxicity.

Combining the best of both worlds: radical-based divergent total synthesis

A mature science, combining the art of the total synthesis of complex natural structures and the practicality of delivering highly diverged lead compounds for biological screening, is the constant aim of the organic chemistry community. Delivering natural lead compounds became easier during the last two decades, with the evolution of green chemistry and the concepts of atom economy and protecting-group-free synthesis dominating the field of total synthesis. In this new era, total synthesis is moving towards natural efficacy by utilizing both the biosynthetic knowledge of divergent synthesis and the latest developments in radical chemistry. This contemporary review highlights recent total syntheses that incorporate the best of both worlds.

Natural Compounds as Integrative Therapy for Liver Protection against Inflammatory and Carcinogenic Mechanisms: From Induction to Molecular Biology Advancement

The liver is exposed to several harmful substances that bear the potential to cause excessive liver damage ranging from hepatitis and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease to extreme cases of liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Liver ailments have been effectively treated from very old times with Chinese medicinal herbal formulations and later also applied by controlled trials in Japan. However, these traditional practices have been hardly well characterized in the past till in the last decades when more qualified studies have been carried out. Modern advances have given rise to specific molecular targets which are specifically good candidates for affecting the intricate mechanisms that play a role at the molecular level. These therapeutic regimens that mainly affect the progression of the disease by inhibiting the gene expression levels or by blocking essential molecular pathways or releasing cytokines may prove to play a vital role in minimizing the tissue damage. This review, therefore, tries to throw light upon the variation in the therapies for the treatment of benign and malignant liver disease from ancient times to the current date. Nonetheless, clinical research exploring the effectiveness of herbal medicines in the treatment of benign chronic liver diseases as well as prevention and treatment of HCC is still warranted.

Acetaminophen induced hepatotoxicity: An overview of the promising protective effects of natural products and herbal formulations

BACKGROUND

The liver plays an important role in regulating the metabolic processes and is the most frequently targeted organ by toxic chemicals. Acetaminophen (APAP) is a well-known anti-allergic, anti-pyretic, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), which upon overdose leads to hepatotoxicity, the major adverse event of this over-the-counter drug.

PURPOSE

APAP overdose induced acute liver injury is the second most common cause that often requires liver transplantation worldwide, for which N-acetyl cysteine is the only synthetic drug clinically approved as an antidote. So, it was felt that there is a need for the novel therapeutic approach for the treatment of liver diseases with less adverse effects. This review provides detailed analysis of the different plant extracts; phytochemicals and herbal formulations for the amelioration of APAP-induced liver injury.

METHOD

The data was collected using different online resources including PubMed, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, Springer, and Web of Science using keywords given below.

RESULTS

Over the past decades various reports have revealed that plant-based approaches may be a better treatment choice for the APAP-induced hepatotoxicity in pre-clinical experimental conditions. Moreover, herbal compounds provide several advantages over the synthetic drugs with fewer side effects, easy availability and less cost for the treatment of life-threatening diseases.

CONCLUSION

The current review summarizes the hepatoprotective effects and therapeutic mechanisms of various plant extracts, active phytoconstituents and herbal formulations with potential application against APAP induced hepatotoxicity as the numbers of hepatoprotective natural products are more without clinical relativity. Further, pre-clinical pharmacological research will contribute to the designing of natural products as medicines with encouraging prospects for clinical application.

Schisandra chinensis essential oil attenuates acetaminophen-induced liver injury through alleviating oxidative stress and activating autophagy

CONTEXT

Schisandra chinensis (Turcz.) Baill. (Magnoliaceae) essential oil (SCEO) composition is rich in lignans that are believed to perform protective effects in the liver.

OBJECTIVE

This study investigates the effects of SCEO in the treatment of acetaminophen (APAP)-induced liver injury in mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

C57BL/6 mice (n = 56) were randomly divided into seven groups: normal; APAP (300 mg/kg); APAP plus bicyclol (200 mg/kg); APAP plus SCEO (0.25, 0.5, 1, 2 g/kg). Serum biochemical parameters for liver function, inflammatory factors, and antioxidant activities were determined. The protein expression levels of Nrf2, GCLC, GCLM, HO-1, p62, and LC3 were assessed by western blotting. Nrf2, GCLC, HO-1, p62, and LC3 mRNA were detected by real-time PCR.

RESULTS

Compared to APAP overdose, SCEO (2 g/kg) pre-treatment reduced the serum levels of AST (79.4%), ALT (84.6%), TNF-α (57.3%), and IL-6 (53.0%). In addition, SCEO (2 g/kg) markedly suppressed cytochrome P450 2E1 (CYP2E1) (15.4%) and attenuated the exhaustion of GSH (43.6%) and SOD (16.8%), and the accumulation of MDA (22.6%) in the liver, to inhibit the occurrence of oxidative stress. Moreover, hepatic tissues from our experiment revealed that SCEO pre-treatment mitigated liver injury caused by oxidative stress by increasing Nrf2, HO-1, and GCL. Additionally, SCEO activated autophagy, which upregulated hepatic LC3-II and decreased p62 in APAP overdose mice (p < 0.05).

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

Our evidence demonstrated that SCEO protects hepatocytes from APAP-induced liver injury in vivo and the findings will provide a reliable theoretical basis for developing novel therapeutics.

Identification, Molecular Cloning, and Functional Characterization of a Coniferyl Alcohol Acyltransferase Involved in the Biosynthesis of Dibenzocyclooctadiene Lignans in Schisandra chinensis

Schisandra chinensis owes its therapeutic efficacy to the dibenzocyclooctadiene lignans, which are limited to the Schisandraceae family and whose biosynthetic pathway has not been elucidated. Coniferyl alcohol is the synthetic precursor of various types of lignans and can be acetylated to form coniferyl acetate by coniferyl alcohol acyltransferase (CFAT), which belongs to the BAHD acyltransferase family. This catalytic reaction is important because it is the first committed step of the hypothetical biosynthetic pathway in which coniferyl alcohol gives rise to dibenzocyclooctadiene lignans. However, the gene encoding CFAT in S. chinensis has not been identified. In this study, firstly we identified 37 ScBAHD genes from the transcriptome datasets of S. chinensis. According to bioinformatics, phylogenetic, and expression profile analyses, 1 BAHD gene, named ScBAHD1, was cloned from S. chinensis. The heterologous expression in Escherichia coli and in vitro activity assays revealed that the recombinant enzyme of ScBAHD1 exhibits acetyltransferase activity with coniferyl alcohol and some other alcohol substrates by using acetyl-CoA as the acetyl donor, which indicates ScBAHD1 functions as ScCFAT. Subcellular localization analysis showed that ScCFAT is mainly located in the cytoplasm. In addition, we generated a three-dimensional (3D) structure of ScCFAT by homology modeling and explored the conformational interaction between protein and ligands by molecular docking simulations. Overall, this study identified the first enzyme with catalytic activity from the Schisandraceae family and laid foundations for future investigations to complete the biosynthetic pathway of dibenzocyclooctadiene lignans.

Research Progress of Pyroptosis in Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a disease characterized by insidious and progressive neurodegeneration, with clinical syndromes of memory and visuospatial skills damage. The pathogenic mechanism of AD is complex in which neural inflammation and neuron death play important roles. Pyroptosis, an inflammatory programmed cell death, has been reported to be involved in neuron death. Pyroptosis is executed by the protein family of gasdermins which punch pores on plasma membrane when activated by the upstream signals including the activation of NLRP3 and caspases, and subsequently triggers the inflammatory cascades featured by the release of interleukin (IL) -1β and IL-18. Herein, we summarized the current research on the roles of neuron pyroptosis in AD, aiming to provide a comprehensive view of the molecular mechanisms underlying AD pathogenesis and potential therapeutic targets for AD.

Influence of schisantherin A on the pharmacokinetics of lenvatinib in rats and its potential mechanism

BACKGROUND

Lenvatinib (LEN) is approved as first-line therapy for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Schisantherin A (STA) can exert hepatoprotective and anti-tumor effects. The clinical combination of LEN and STA is very common, especially for patients with advanced HCC, but the effect of STA on the pharmacokinetics of LEN is unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effects of STA on the pharmacokinetics of LEN in rats and explore its potential mechanism.

METHODS

Male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were orally administered different doses of STA or vehicle control for 7 consecutive days, and 1.2 mg/kg of LEN was given on day 7. The messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein expression levels in the intestines and liver were investigated by reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and western blot.

RESULTS

It was revealed that STA increased the oral bioavailability of LEN. The area under the curve from time 0 to infinity (AUC0-∞) and maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) of LEN after co-administration with STA (20 mg/kg) increased by 54.3% (3,396.73±989.35 vs. 5,240.03±815.49 µg/L/h) and 54.8% (490.64±124.20 vs. 759.66±152.75 µg/L), respectively. The clearance decreased from 0.38±0.12 to 0.23±0.04 L/h/kg, and the apparent volume of distribution (Vz) decreased from 10.83±3.19 to 6.35±1.38 L/kg in the presence of 20 mg/kg STA. In addition, the expression of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) mRNA and protein in the intestines was markedly decreased.

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed that STA increased the bioavailability of LEN, probably due to inhibition of P-gp in the intestine, thereby increasing systemic absorption of LEN. Thus, there is an interaction between the two drugs, and careful monitoring must be conducted when they are used in combination.

A comprehensive review of ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and pharmacokinetics of Schisandra chinensis (Turcz.) Baill. and Schisandra sphenanthera Rehd. et Wils

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Schisandra chinensis (called bei-wuweizi in Chinese, S. chinensis) and Schisandra sphenanthera (called nan-wuweizi in Chinese, S. sphenanthera) are two highly similar plants in the Magnoliaceae family. Their dried ripe fruits are commonly used as traditional Chinese medicine in the treatment of coughs, palpitation, spermatorrhea, and insomnia. They also are traditionally used as tonics in Russia, Japan, and Korea.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

S. chinensis and S. sphenanthera are similar in appearance, traditional applications, ingredient compositions, and therapeutic effects. This review, therefore, aims to provide a systematic insight into the botanical background, ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, quality control, and toxicology of S. chinensis and S. sphenanthera, and to explore and present the similarities and differences between S. chinensis and S. sphenanthera.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A comprehensive literature search regarding S. chinensis and S. sphenanthera was collected by using electronic databases including PubMed, SciFinder, Science Direct, Web of Science, CNKI, and the online ethnobotanical database.

RESULTS

In the 2020 Edition of Chinese Pharmacopoeia (ChP), there were 100 prescriptions containing S. chinensis, while only 11 contained S. sphenanthera. Totally, 306 and 238 compounds have been isolated and identified from S. chinensis and S. sphenanthera, respectively. Among these compounds, lignans, triterpenoids, essential oils, phenolic acid, flavonoids, phytosterols are the major composition. Through investigation of pharmacological activities, S. chinensis and S. sphenanthera have similar therapeutic effects including hepatoprotection, neuroprotection, cardioprotection, anticancer, antioxidation, anti-inflammation, and hypoglycemic effect. Besides, S. chinensis turns out to have more effects including reproductive regulation and immunomodulatory, antimicrobial, antitussive and antiasthmatic, anti-fatigue, antiarthritic, and bone remodeling effects. Both S. chinensis and S. sphenanthera have inhibitory effects on CYP3A and P-gp, which can mediate metabolism or efflux of substrates, and therefore interact with many drugs.

CONCLUSIONS

S. chinensis and S. sphenanthera have great similarities. Dibenzocyclooctadiene lignans are regarded to contribute to most of the bioactivities. Schisandrin A-C, schisandrol A-B, and schisantherin A, existing in both S. chinensis and S. sphenanthera but differing in the amount, are the main active components, which may contribute to the similarities and differences. Study corresponding to the traditional use is needed to reveal the deep connotation of the use of S. chinensis and S. sphenanthera as traditional Chinese medicine. In addition, a joint study of S. chinensis and S. sphenanthera can better show the difference between them, which can provide a reference for clinical application. It is worth mentioning that the inhibition of S. chinensis and S. sphenanthera on CYP3A and P-gp may lead to undesirable drug-drug interactions.

Schisandra sphenanthera: A Comprehensive Review of its Botany, Phytochemistry, Pharmacology, and Clinical Applications

Schisandra sphenanthera Rehd. et Wils (S. sphenanthera) is a single species of Schisandra genus, Magnoliaceae family, and it is a famous medicinal herb mostly growing in southern China, China Taiwan and Vietnam. S. sphenanthera is usually used for the treatments of hepatitis, Alzheimer's disease, renal transplantation, osteoporosis, and insomnia. In present studies, approximately 310 natural constituents have been isolated from S. sphenanthera, including lignans, triterpenes, volatile oils, and polysaccharides, which were mainly obtained from the fruits and stems of S. sphenanthera. Pharmocological studies have shown that the extracts and monomeric compounds of S. sphenanthera possessed wide-range bioactivities, such as antitumor, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, osteoblastic, immune regulation, neuroprotective, kidney protection, hepatoprotective, and antiviral activities. However, resource availability, quality control measures, in-depth in vivo pharmacological study, and clinical application are still insufficient and deserve further studies. This review systematically summarized literatures on the botany, phytochemistry, pharmacology, development utilization, and clinical application of S. sphenanthera, in hopes of provide a useful reference for researchers for further studies of this plant.

Schizandrin A ameliorates cognitive functions via modulating microglial polarisation in Alzheimer's disease mice

CONTEXT

Schizandrin A (Sch A) is a major phytochemical from Schisandra chinensis (Turcz.) Baill. (Schisandraceae), which exerts a neuroprotective effect in Alzheimer's disease (AD).

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the mechanism of Sch A in AD.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

AD group: APP/PS1 transgenic mice served as AD models; AD + SCH group: APP/PS1 received 2 mg/kg Sch A by intragastric administration; WT: C57BL/6 mice were used as control. For in vitro assay, mouse microglial BV2 cells were treated with 0.5 µg/mL lipopolysaccharide or combined with 10 μmol/L Sch A for 24 h. The cognitive function and apoptosis in the mice was estimated. Microglial polarisation in the mice and cells was analysed.

RESULTS

Sch A treatment effectively improved spatial learning and memory ability and suppressed apoptosis in the brain tissues of APP/PS1 mice. APP/PS1 mice exhibited an increase in the levels of Aβ1-42 (2367.9 ± 431.1 pg/mg) and Aβ1-40 (1753.3 ± 253.4 pg/mg), which was abolished by Sch A treatment. Moreover, Sch A treatment repressed the proportions of iNOS⁺/Iba-1⁺ cells and IL-6 expression, while enhanced the proportions of Arg-1⁺/Iba-1⁺ cells and IL-10 expression in APP/PS1 mice. In vitro, Sch A treatment reduced the proportions of CD16/32⁺ cells, iNOS expression and IL-6 levels (25.7 ± 5.3 pg/mL) repressed M1 polarisation, and enhanced the proportions of CD206 cells, Arg-1 expression and IL-10 levels (75.9 ± 12.8 pg/mL) in BV2 cells.

CONCLUSIONS

This research confirms the neuroprotective effect of Sch A in AD, suggesting that Sch A may become a potential anti-AD agent.

Saengmaeksan, a traditional herbal formulation consisting of Panax ginseng, ameliorates hyperuricemia by inhibiting xanthine oxidase activity and enhancing urate excretion in rats

Background

Saengmaeksan (SMS) is a traditional Korean medicine composed of three herbs, Panax ginseng, Schisandra chinensis, and Liriope platyphylla. SMS is used to treat respiratory and cardiovascular disorders. However, whether SMS exerts antihyperuricemic effects is unknown.

Methods

Effects of the SMS extract in water (SMS-W) and 30% ethanol (SMS-E) were studied in a rat model of potassium oxonate-induced hyperuricemia. Uric acid concentrations and xanthine oxidase (XO) activities were evaluated in the serum, urine, and hepatic tissue. Using renal histopathology to assess kidney function and uric acid excretion, we investigated serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen concentrations, as well as protein levels of renal urate transporter 1 (URAT1), glucose transporter 9 (GLUT9), and organic anion transporter 1 (OAT1). The effects of SMS on in vitro XO activity and uric acid uptake were also evaluated. The components of SMS were identified using Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography (UPLC).

Results

SMS-E reduced serum uric acid and creatinine concentrations, and elevated urine uric acid excretion. SMS-E lowered XO activities in both the serum and liver, and downregulated the expression of renal URAT1 and GLUT9 proteins. SMS-E reduced renal inflammation and IL-1β levels in both the serum and kidneys. SMS-E inhibited both in vitro XO activity and urate uptake in URAT1-expressing oocytes. Using UPLC, 25 ginsenosides were identified, all of which were present in higher levels in SMS-E than in SMS-W.

Conclusion

SMS-E exhibited antihyperuricemic effects by regulating XO activity and renal urate transporters, providing the first evidence of its applicability in the treatment of hyperuricemia and gout.

An Integrative Pharmacology Based Analysis of Refined Liuweiwuling Against Liver Injury: A Novel Component Combination and Hepaprotective Mechanism

Liver disease is a major cause of illness and death worldwide. In China, liver diseases, primarily alcoholic and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and viral hepatitis, affect approximately 300 million people, resulting in a major impact on the global burden of liver diseases. The use of Liuweiwuling (LWWL), a traditional Chinese medicine formula, approved by the Chinese Food and Drug Administration for decreasing aminotransferase levels induced by different liver diseases. Our previous study indicated a part of the material basis and mechanisms of LWWL in the treatment of hepatic fibrosis. However, knowledge of the materials and molecular mechanisms of LWWL in the treatment of liver diseases remains limited. Using pharmacokinetic and network pharmacology methods, this study demonstrated that the active components of LWWL were involved in the treatment mechanism against liver diseases and exerted anti-apoptosis and anti-inflammatory effects. Furthermore, esculetin, luteolin, schisandrin A and schisandrin B may play an important role by exerting anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective effects in vitro. Esculeti and luteolin dose-dependently inhibited H₂O₂-induced cell apoptosis, and luteolin also inhibited the NF-κB signaling pathway in bone marrow-derived macrophages. schisandrin A and B inhibited the release of ROS in acetaminophen (APAP)-induced acute liver injury in vitro. Moreover, LWWL active ingredients protect against APAP-induced acute liver injury in mice. The four active ingredients may inhibit oxidative stress or inflammation to exert hepatoprotective effect. In conclusion, our results showed that the novel component combination of LWWL can protect against APAP-induced acute liver injury by inhibiting cell apoptosis and exerting anti-inflammatory effects.

Study on the Hepatoprotection of Schisandra chinensis Caulis Polysaccharides in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Rats Based on Metabolomics

The aim of this study was to investigate the hepatoprotection of Schisandra chinensis Caulis polysaccharides (SCPs) in the nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) induced by high-fat diet (HFD) in rats. A total of 30 Wistar rats were randomly divided into the control group (CON), model group (MOD), and Schisandra chinensis caulis polysaccharide (SCP) group. Except for those in the CON group, the other rats were fed with high-fat diet for 4 weeks to establish an NAFLD model. From the 5th week, rats in the SCP group were given SCP solution (100 mg kg^-1) by gavage for 6 weeks, and those in the CON and MOD groups were given an equal volume of distilled water in the same way. Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels in serum, the malondialdehyde (MDA) level, glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities in the liver tissue were detected. The small molecular metabolites in the blood of rats were determined by the metabolomics method of ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole/electrostatic field orbitrap high-resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap-MS/MS) combined with multivariate analysis. The enrichment analysis and pathway analysis of the different metabolites were carried out. The therapeutic mechanism of SCP in NAFLD rats was verified by western blot. The results showed that the levels of AST, ALT, TG, TC, and LDL-C in the serum of rats in the SCP group were significantly lower, and the levels of HDL-C were significantly higher than those in the MOD group. The screening and analysis of the metabolic pathways showed that SCP could alleviate the development of NAFLD by regulating the expression of UDP-glucose pyrophosphorylase (UGP2), UDP-glucose 6-dehydrogenase (UGDH), acetyl CoA carboxylase (ACC), and fatty acid synthase (FAS) in the liver of NAFLD rats. This study may provide a theoretical basis for the development and utilization of SCP.

Sustained false-positive results for hepatitis A virus immunoglobulin M: A case report and literature review

Hepatitis A virus immunoglobulin M (HAV-IgM) is often used to diagnose acute hepatitis A virus (HAV) infection serologically. However, false-positive test results can interfere with the diagnosis. A 56-year-old woman was readmitted to the hospital owing to abnormal liver function tests for the last 18 months. She had been diagnosed with acute HAV and was hospitalized in isolation based on a positive HAV-IgM test 18 months ago. Regular follow-up after discharge showed abnormal liver function and an elevated level of antinuclear antibodies and immunoglobulin G. For the last 15 days, the patient had fatigue, decreased appetite, and yellow urine, signaling recrudescence. Liver function tests were also abnormal. Liver biopsy revealed histological changes consistent with typical autoimmune hepatitis. After 2 months of methylprednisolone treatment, liver function returned to normal, and HAV-IgM turned negative. The diagnosis of acute HAV in nonendemic areas requires a comprehensive analysis of epidemic history, clinical characteristics, etiology, etc.

Hugan tablets for the treatment of RUCAM based drug-induced liver injury: a propensity score matching analysis using a nationwide database

BACKGROUND

Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is a major clinical challenge with no specific therapeutic drugs available. It is crucial to develop new agents to improve the clinical outcome of patients with DILI. This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of Hugan tablets in DILI patients using a nationwide database.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We analyzed the clinical data of DILI patients from a nationwide DILI database (www.hepatox.org). Patients who received oral Hugan tablets for DILI were defined as the Hugan group, and those who received no treatment for DILI were defined as the control group.

RESULTS

There were 111 cases in the Hugan group and 512 cases in the control group. One-to-one propensity score matching created 111 matched pairs. The normalization rates of alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase in the Hugan group were significantly higher than those in the control group (50.45% vs. 26.13%, p ≤ .0002 and 67.57% vs. 41.75%, p ≤ .0001). There were no differences in the incidence of renal function impairment or blood abnormality between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Hugan tablets are safe and effective in DILI treatment. Large-scale randomized controlled studies are needed to explore the effects of Hugan tablets on DILI induced by different offending drugs.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The study protocol was posted on ClinicalTrials.gov with NCT number: NCT02407964.

Therapeutic Effects of Natural Compounds and Small Molecule Inhibitors Targeting Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress in Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common neurodegenerative disease, characterized by progressive cognitive impairment and memory loss. So far, the pathogenesis of AD has not been fully understood. Research have shown that endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and unfolded protein response (UPR) participate in the occurrence and development of AD. Furthermore, various studies, both in vivo and in vitro, have shown that targeting ER stress and ER stress-mediated apoptosis contribute to the recovery of AD. Thus, targeting ER stress and ER stress-mediated apoptosis may be effective for treating AD. In this review, the molecular mechanism of ER stress and ER stress-mediated apoptosis, as well as the therapeutic effects of some natural compounds and small molecule inhibitors targeting ER stress and ER stress-mediated apoptosis in AD will be introduced.

Protective Property of Scutellarin Against Liver Injury Induced by Carbon Tetrachloride in Mice

Liver injury is a clinical disorder caused by toxins, drugs, and alcohol stimulation without effective therapeutic approaches thus far. Scutellarin (SCU), isolated from the edible herb Erigeron breviscapus (Vant.) Hand. -Mazz. showed potential hepatoprotective effects, but the mechanisms remain unknown. In this study, transcriptomics combined with nontargeted metabolomics and 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing were performed to elucidate the functional mechanisms of SCU in carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄)–induced liver injury in mice. The results showed that SCU exerted potential hepatoprotective effects against CCl₄-induced liver injury by repressing CYP2E1 and IκBα/NF-κB signaling pathways, modulating the gut microbiota (especially enriching Lactobacillus), and regulating the endogenous metabolites involved in lipid metabolism and bile acid homeostasis. SCU originates from a functional food that appears to be a promising agent to guard against liver injury.

Effects of Syo-seiryu-to and Its Constituent Crude Drugs on Phorbol Ester-Induced Up-Regulation of IL-33 and Histamine H1 Receptor mRNAs in Swiss 3T3 and HeLa Cells

Syo-seiryu-to (SST) is a traditional herbal medicine that has been used clinically to treat allergic rhinitis (AR) in Japan. SST improves acute symptoms, such as sneezing and rhinorrhea, as well as chronic symptoms, such as nasal obstruction, in patients with AR. However, its therapeutic mechanisms remain unknown. We examined the effects of SST and eight constituent crude drugs on phorbol 12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA)-induced gene up-regulation of IL-33 and histamine H1 receptor (H1R), which are responsible for the pathogenesis of AR. We found that SST and its crude drugs, except for Pinellia tuber, significantly and dose-dependently suppressed PMA-induced both IL-33 and H1R mRNA up-regulation in vitro. The half-maximal inhibitory concentration values of the seven crude drugs to inhibit PMA-induced IL-33 mRNA up-regulation were correlated with those related to H1R mRNA up-regulation, suggesting that they act on a common signal molecule. These results suggest that SST improves nasal congestion that is induced by IL-33-related eosinophil infiltration and inhibits sneezing and rhinorrhea that are induced by H1R-mediated histamine signaling in the nasal mucosa of AR patients through its inhibition of a common molecule in the gene expression pathways of IL-33 and H1R. The results could explain the advantages of traditional herbal medicine, in which mixing various crude drugs not only acts on a common target to enhance its pharmacological action, similar to the effect of a high concentration of a single crude extract but also has the benefit of reducing the side effects of each crude drug.

Wuzhi capsule increased systemic exposure to methotrexate by inhibiting the expression of OAT1/3 and P-gp

Background

Methotrexate (MTX) is an important anticancer agent and immunosuppressant with a narrow therapeutic window. Wuzhi capsule (WZC) is an extract of Schisandra which is widely used to treat liver diseases. Co-administration of MTX and WZC is common in the clinical setting, but research on the interaction between WZC and MTX is limited. This study aimed to investigate the effects of WZC on the pharmacokinetics of MTX in rats and to explore the role of membrane transport proteins OAT1/3 and P-gp in the interaction of these drugs.

Methods

Plasma MTX concentration was detected by ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometer (UPLC-MS/MS), and the messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein expression of OAT1/3 and P-gp was evaluated by reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and western blotting analyses, respectively.

Results

The study results revealed that co-administration of WZC decreased the CL_z/F and V_z/F of MTX, increased the C_max and area under the curve [(AUC)_{0–24 h}] of MTX, and inhibited OAT1/3 expression in the kidney and P-gp expression in the small intestine.

Conclusions

The findings suggested that there is a drug interaction between WZC and MTX and that OAT1/3 in the kidney and P-gp in the small intestine may be the main targets mediating the drug interaction, and attention should be paid when they are used in combination.

Protective effects and possible mechanisms of Centella asiatica (L.) urban extract against acute and chronic liver injury: Evidence from in vivo and in vitro studies

Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) has become a significant health care problem worldwide. Centella asiatica (L.) urban was traditionally used to prevent or treat various diseases, yet whether it works on hepatic injury remains unclear. In this study, multiple experimental models with different damage degrees and types of liver injury have been established to evaluate the hepatoprotective effects of an n-butanol extract of Centella asiatica (CA-BU). Our results revealed that CA-BU improved hepatocyte L02 cells survival from H2 O2 -induced oxidative damage in a concentration-dependent manner. We further verified the hepatoprotective effects of CA-BU in mice models of acetaminophen-induced acute liver injury (one of the most common DILIs clinically) and CCl4 -induced acute chemical liver injury, and a rat model of chronic alcoholic steatohepatitis. Furthermore, network pharmacology approaches were performed to explore the underlying mechanisms, and we predicted AKT1, EGFR, VEGFA, and STAT3 as the potential therapeutic targets. In follow-up studies, we will focus on targets verification and provide a deeper insight into the mechanisms of CA-BU against liver damage. Finally, we hope that these findings will provide new ideas and insights for the treatment of acute or chronic liver injury in the clinic.

Anwulignan is a novel JAK1 inhibitor that suppresses non-small cell lung cancer growth

Anwulignan is a monomer compound derived from Schisandra sphenanthera lignans. It has been reported to possess a spectrum of pharmacological activities, including anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, anticancer and hepatoprotective properties. However, its anticancer capacity and molecular mechanism(s) against non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) have not been fully elucidated. Anwulignan significantly inhibited cell growth and increased G1-phase cell cycle arrest in NSCLC cells. Anwulignan strongly attenuates the JAK1/STAT3 signalling pathway by directly targeting JAK1 protein kinase activity in vitro. The anticancer activity by Anwulignan is dependent upon the JAK1 protein expression. Remarkably, Anwulignan strongly inhibited tumour growth in vivo. In conclusion, Anwulignan is a novel JAK1 inhibitor that may have therapeutic implications for NSCLC management.

A Comparative Pharmacokinetic Study of Schisandrol B After Oral Administration of Schisandrol B Monomer and Schisandra chinensis Extract

Background:

Schisandra chinensis Turcz. (Baill.) is a perennial deciduous woody vine plant, which is beneficial to all systems of the body.

Objective:

The goals of the present study were to compare the pharmacokinetics of schisandrol B in rats after the oral administration of schisandrol B monomer (10 mg/kg) and S. chinensis extract (equivalent to 10 mg/kg schisandrol B) and to explore interactions among the components in S. chinensis extract.

Methods:

Twelve Sprague-Dawley rats of SPF grade were randomly divided into the monomer and S.chinensis extract groups. Plasma samples were extracted with methyl tert-butyl ether, and chromatographic separation was performed on an Agilent ZORBAX Eclipse XDB-C18 (4.6 × 150 mm, 5 μm) column with the mobile phase consisting of methanol (containing 0.1% formic acid)-water (containing 0.1% formic acid and 5 mmol ammonium acetate). This analysis was achieved by multiple reaction monitoring modes in an electrospray interface.

Results:

The seven lignans had a good linear relationship within the determination range (r>0.9950); the intra- and inter-day precision was <12.08% and accuracy was 88.64%-111.61%. The pharmacokinetic parameters (T1/2, Tmax, MRT0-∞, CL, AUC0-t, and AUC0-∞) of schisandrol B showed significant differences between the two groups (P<0.05).

Conclusion:

The validated method has been successfully applied to the pharmacokinetics of schisandrin, schisandrol B, schisandrin A, schisandrin B, schisandrin C, schisanhenol, and schisantherin A. The pharmacokinetic differences indicate that other components in the extract may increase the absorption of schisandrol B, decrease the rate of elimination, and improve the bioavailability of schisandrol B.

Mimicking oxidative radical cyclizations of lignan biosynthesis using redox-neutral photocatalysis

Oxidative cyclizations create many unique chemical structures that are characteristic of biologically active natural products. Many of these reactions are catalysed by 'non-canonical' or 'thwarted' iron oxygenases and appear to involve long-lived radicals. Mimicking these biosynthetic transformations with chemical equivalents has been a long-standing goal of synthetic chemists but the fleeting nature of radicals, particularly under oxidizing conditions, makes this challenging. Here we use redox-neutral photocatalysis to generate radicals that are likely to be involved in the biosynthesis of lignan natural products. We present the total syntheses of highly oxidized dibenzocyclooctadienes, which feature densely fused, polycyclic frameworks that originate from a common radical progenitor. We show that multiple factors control the fate of the proposed biosynthetic radicals, as they select between 5- or 11-membered ring cyclizations and a number of different terminating events. Our syntheses create new opportunities to explore the medicinal properties of these natural products, while shedding light on their biosynthetic origin.

The involvement of NLRP3 inflammasome in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is one of the most common neurodegenerative diseases, and it is characterised by progressive deterioration in cognitive and memory abilities, which can severely influence the elderly population's daily living abilities. Although researchers have made great efforts in the field of AD, there are still no well-established strategies to prevent and treat this disease. Therefore, better clarification of the molecular mechanisms associated with the onset and progression of AD is critical to provide a theoretical basis for the establishment of novel preventive and therapeutic strategies. Currently, it is generally believed that neuroinflammation plays a key role in the pathogenesis of AD. Inflammasome, a multiprotein complex, is involved in the innate immune system, and it can mediate inflammatory responses and pyroptosis, which lead to neurodegeneration. Among the various types of inflammasomes, the NLRP3 inflammasome is the most characterised in neurodegenerative diseases, especially in AD. The activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome causes the generation of caspase-1-mediated interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-18 in microglia cells, where neuroinflammation is involved in the development and progression of AD. Thus, the NLRP3 inflammasome is likely to be a crucial therapeutic molecular target for AD via regulating neuroinflammation. In this review, we summarise the current knowledge on the role and regulatory mechanisms of the NLRP3 inflammasome in the pathogenic mechanisms of AD. We also focus on a series of potential therapeutic treatments targeting NLRP3 inflammasome for AD. Further clarification of the regulatory mechanisms of the NLRP3 inflammasome in AD may provide more useful clues to develop novel AD treatment strategies.

Extract of Schisandra chinensis fruit protects against metabolic dysfunction in high-fat diet induced obese mice via FXR activation

Schisandra chinensis fruit has been shown to restore carbohydrate- and lipid-metabolic disorders and has anti-hepatotoxicity and anti-hepatitis activities. However, the molecular targets mediating the pharmacological properties of S. chinensis fruit have not been clarified. Here, we assayed the effects of S. chinensis fruit ethanol extract (SCE) on farnesoid X receptor (FXR) transactivity. The pharmacological effects of SCE (1 g/100 g diet) were assessed in high-fat diet (HFD)-fed C57BL/6 mice and ob/ob mice. The FXR and Fgf15 signalling pathways were evaluated by FXR silencing, ELISA, Western blot and RT-PCR analyses. The results showed that SCE treatment increased FXR transcription activity and improved obesity, hypercholesteremia and fatty liver in HFD-fed mice, while it had limited effects on ob/ob mice. Our study suggests that SCE treatment may improve HFD-induced metabolic disorders through pharmacological activation of FXR/Fgf15 signalling, and such beneficial effects of SCE may require leptin participation.

Anwulignan Alleviates Carbon Tetrachloride-Induced Acute Liver Injury in Mice

Acute liver injury is a serious threat to human health. Complementary therapy including a traditional Chinese herb has been used for the prevention and treatment of liver injuries. Schisandrae sphenantherae fructus (Schisandra) is the mature dry fruit of Schisandra sphenanthera Rehd. et Wils. Wuzhi capsule, a preparation containing Schisandra and its main component anwulignan, is used to treat hepatitis and hepatic insufficiency caused by viruses and drugs in the clinic. However, to date, there has been little study to reveal the effect of anwulignan in the protection of the liver. Therefore, in this study, we hypothesized that anwulignan could protect carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced acute liver injury in mice. Anwulignan was shown to reduce significantly the liver index, decrease liver histopathological injury, decrease the serum level of aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase, increase the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase, reduce liver malondialdehyde content, and downregulate the expression levels of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β, and tumor necrosis factor-α in the liver tissue, as well as the protein expression levels of receptor-interacting serine/threonine-protein kinase 1 (RIPK1), RIPK3, and phosphorylated mixed lineage kinase domain-like protein. All these results suggest that anwulignan can alleviate the CCl4-induced acute liver injury in mice, which may be related to its antioxidant, anti-inflammation, and inhibition of liver cell necroptosis effects.

Schisandrin ameliorates cognitive deficits, endoplasmic reticulum stress and neuroinflammation in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced Alzheimer's disease rats

Schisandrin, an active component extracted from Schisandra chinensis (Turcz.) Baill has been reported to alleviate the cognitive impairment in neurodegenerative disorder like Alzheimer’s disease (AD). However, the mechanism by which schisandrin regulates the cognitive decline is still unclear. In our study, intracerebroventricular injection of streptozotocin (STZ) was employed to establish AD model in male Wistar rats, and indicated dose of schisandrin was further administered. The Morris water maze test was performed to evaluate the ability of learning and memory in rats with schisandrin treatment. The results indicated that schisandrin improved the capacity of cognition in STZ-induced rats. The contents of pro-inflammatory cytokines in brain tissue were determined by ELISA, and the expressions of these cytokines were assessed by western-blot and immunohistochemistry. The results showed that treatment of schisandrin significantly reduced the production of inflammation mediators including tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β and interleukin-6. Further study suggested a remarkable decrease in the expressions of ER stress maker proteins like C/EBP-homologous protein, glucose-regulated protein 78 and cleaved caspase-12 in the presence of schisandrin, meanwhile the up-regulation of sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) was also observed in the same group. Additionally, the results of western-blot and EMSA demonstrated that schisandrin inhibited NF-κB signaling in the brain of STZ-induced rats. In conclusion, schisandrin ameliorated STZ-induced cognitive dysfunction, ER stress and neuroinflammation which may be associated with up-regulation of SIRT1. Our study provides novel mechanisms for the neuroprotective effect of schisandrin in AD treatment.

Anti-fatigue effect of anwulignan via the NRF2 and PGC-1α signaling pathway in mice

OBJECTIVE

To examine the anti-fatigue function of anwulignan from Schisandra and its underlying mechanism.

METHODS

After an excessive fatigue mouse model was created, anwulignan was administered to the mice, and its effect on exercise tolerance was studied by the weight-bearing swimming test, rotarod test, grip strength test, and tail suspension test. The biochemical indicators closely related to fatigue, including blood urea nitrogen (BUN), lactic acid (LD), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and creatine kinase (CK) in the serum; liver glycogen (LG) in the liver tissue; muscle glycogen (MG); inorganic phosphate (Pi) and Annexin V in the gastrocnemius; superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities; malondialdehyde (MDA), catalase (CAT), and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS); and the 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) content in both serum and the gastrocnemius were detected. Morphological changes were also observed. The anti-fatigue-related proteins of the NRF2/ARE, Bcl2, and PGC-1α pathways in the gastrocnemius of the mice were detected by western blot.

RESULTS

Anwulignan significantly increased the exercise tolerance by decreasing BUN, LD, LDH, CK, Pi, MDA, TBARS, 8-OHdG, ROS, and Annexin V levels and increasing LG, MG, SOD, CAT, and GSH-Px levels, significantly upregulated the expression of NRF2 and Bcl2 proteins, which are anti-oxidation and anti-apoptosis regulators, and also activated the p38MAPK-PGC-1α pathway.

CONCLUSION

Anwulignan can increase exercise tolerance and relieve fatigue in an excessive fatigue mouse model. The underlying mechanism may be through its regulatory effect on the NRF2 and PGC-1α signaling pathway. This study will provide scientific data for anwulignan to be developed as a novel and efficient component in anti-oxidant or anti-fatigue health food.

Systematic Elucidation of the Potential Mechanism of Erzhi Pill against Drug-Induced Liver Injury via Network Pharmacology Approach

Objective

The purpose of this work was to investigate the bioactive compounds, core genes, and pharmacological mechanisms and to provide a further research orientation of Erzhi pill (EZP) on drug-induced liver injury (DILI).

Methods

At first, we collected information of bioactive compounds of EZP from Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform (TCMSP) and previous studies. And then, the targets related to bioactive compounds and DILI were obtained from 4 public databases. At last, Cytoscape was used to establish a visual network. Moreover, Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses and network analysis were performed to investigate potential mechanism of EZP against DILI.

Results

A total of 23 bioactive compounds and 89 major proteins of EZP were screened out as potential players against DILI. Association for bioactive compounds, core targets, and related pathways was analyzed, implying that core targets related to these pathways are ALB, AKT1, MAPK1, EGFR, SRC, MAPK8, IGF1, CASP3, HSP90AA1, and MMP9, and potential mechanisms of EZP acting on DILI are closely related to negative regulation of apoptosis process, improvement of lipid metabolism, and positive regulation of liver regeneration process.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated the multicompound, multitarget, and multichannel characteristics of EZP, which provided a novel approach for further research the mechanism of EZP in the treatment of DILI.

Lignans from Schisandra sphenanthera protect against lithocholic acid-induced cholestasis by pregnane X receptor activation in mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Cholestasis is a clinical syndrome caused by toxic bile acid retention that will lead to serious liver diseases. Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) and obeticholic acid (OCA) are the only two FDA-approved drugs for its treatment. Thus, there is a clear need to develop new therapeutic approaches for cholestasis. Here, anti-cholestasis effects of the lignans from a traditional Chinese herbal medicine, Schisandra sphenanthera, were investigated as well as the involved mechanisms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Adult male C57BL/6J mice were randomly divided into 9 groups including the control group, LCA group, LCA with specific lignan treatment of Schisandrin A (SinA), Schisandrin B (SinB), Schisandrin C (SinC), Schisandrol A (SolA), Schisandrol B (SolB), Schisantherin A (StnA) and Schisantherin B (StnB), respectively. Mice were treated with each drug (qd) for 7 days, while the administration of lithocholic acid (LCA) (bid) was launched from the 4th day. Twelve hours after the last LCA injection, mice were sacrificed and samples were collected. Serum biochemical measurement and histological analysis were conducted. Metabolomics analysis of serum, liver, intestine and feces were performed to study the metabolic profile of bile acids. RT-qPCR and Western blot analysis were conducted to determine the hepatic expression of genes and proteins related to bile acid homeostasis. Dual-luciferase reporter gene assay was performed to investigate the transactivation effect of lignans on human pregnane X receptor (hPXR). RT-qPCR analysis was used to detect induction effects of lignans on hPXR-targeted genes in HepG2 cells.

RESULTS

Lignans including SinA, SinB, SinC, SolA, SolB, StnA, StnB were found to significantly protect against LCA-induced intrahepatic cholestasis, as evidenced by significant decrease in liver necrosis, serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity. More importantly, serum total bile acids (TBA) and total bilirubin (Tbili) were also significantly reduced. Metabolomics analysis revealed these lignans accelerated the metabolism of bile acids and increased the bile acid efflux from liver into the intestine or feces. Gene analysis revealed these lignans induced the hepatic expressions of PXR-target genes such as Cyp3a11 and Ugt1a1. Luciferase reporter gene assays illustrated that these bioactive lignans can activate hPXR. Additionally, they can all upregulate hPXR-regulate genes such as CYP3A4, UGT1A1 and OATP2.

CONCLUSION

These results clearly demonstrated the lignans from Schisandra sphenanthera exert hepatoprotective effects against LCA-induced cholestasis by activation of PXR. These lignans may provide an effective approach for the prevention and treatment of cholestatic liver injury.