1
|
Wang S, Chen B, Du R, Zhong M, Zhang C, Jin X, Cui X, Zhou Y, Kang Q, Xu H, Li Y, Wu Q, Tong G, Luo L. An herbal formulation "Shugan Xiaozhi decoction" ameliorates methionine/choline deficiency-induced nonalcoholic steatohepatitis through regulating inflammation and apoptosis-related pathways. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 329:118127. [PMID: 38583728 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.118127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2023] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Shugan Xiaozhi (SGXZ) decoction is a traditional Chinese medicine used for treating nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). It has been used clinically for over 20 years and proved to be effective; however, the molecular mechanism underlying the effects of SGXZ decoction remains unclear. AIM OF THE STUDY We analyzed the chemical components, core targets, and molecular mechanisms of SGXZ decoction to improve NASH through network pharmacology and in vivo experiments. MATERIALS AND METHODS The chemical components, core targets, and related signaling pathways of SGXZ decoction intervention in NASH were predicted using network pharmacology. Molecular docking was performed to verify chemical components and their core targets. The results were validated in the NASH model treated with SGXZ decoction. Mouse liver function was assessed by measuring ALT and AST levels. TC and TG levels were determined to evaluate lipid metabolism, and lipid deposition was assessed via oil red O staining. Mouse liver damage was determined via microscopy following hematoxylin and eosin staining. Liver fibrosis was assessed via Masson staining. Western blot (WB) and immunohistochemical (IHC) analyses were performed to detect inflammation and the expression of apoptosis-related proteins, including IL-1β, IL-6, IL-18, TNF-α, MCP1, p53, FAS, Caspase-8, Caspase-3, Caspase-9, Bax, Bid, Cytochrome c, Bcl-2, and Bcl-XL. In addition, WB and IHC were used to assess protein expression associated with the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB pathway. RESULTS Quercetin, luteolin, kaempferol, naringenin, and nobiletin in SGXZ decoction were effective chemical components in improving NASH, and TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β were the major core targets. Molecular docking indicated that these chemical components and major core targets might interact. KEGG pathway analysis showed that the pathways affected by SGXZ decoction, primarily including apoptosis and TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathways, interfere with NASH. In vivo experiments indicated that SGXZ decoction considerably ameliorated liver damage, fibrosis, and lipid metabolism disorder in MCD-induced NASH mouse models. In addition, WB and IHC verified the underlying molecular mechanisms of SGXZ decoction as predicted via network pharmacology. SGXZ decoction inhibited the activation of apoptosis-related pathways in MCD-induced NASH mice. Moreover, SGXZ decoction suppressed the activation of TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB pathway in MCD-induced NASH mice. CONCLUSION SGXZ decoction can treat NASH through multiple targets and pathways. These findings provide new insights into the effective treatment of NASH using SGXZ decoction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Wang
- Department of Hepatology, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China; Faculty of Chinese Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Avenida Wai Long, Taipa, Macau, 999078, China; Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Liver Diseases of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China
| | - Bohao Chen
- Department of Hepatology, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China; Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Liver Diseases of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China; Department of Hepatology, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China
| | - Ruili Du
- Department of Hepatology, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China; Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Liver Diseases of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China; Department of Hepatology, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China
| | - Mei Zhong
- Department of Hepatology, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China; Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Liver Diseases of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China; Department of Hepatology, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China
| | - Chunmei Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Science of Luoyang Polytechnic, No. 6 Keji Avenue, Yibin District, Henan, 471099, China
| | - Xiaoming Jin
- Department of Nephrology, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China
| | - Xiang Cui
- Ankang Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Ankang, 725000, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yuhang Zhou
- Department of Hepatology, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China; Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Liver Diseases of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China; Department of Hepatology, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China
| | - Qinyang Kang
- Department of Hepatology, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China; Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Liver Diseases of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China
| | - Hang Xu
- Department of Hepatology, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China; Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Liver Diseases of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China
| | - Yuting Li
- Department of Hepatology, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China; Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Liver Diseases of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China
| | - Qibiao Wu
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Avenida Wai Long, Taipa, Macau, 999078, China.
| | - Guangdong Tong
- Department of Hepatology, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China; Faculty of Chinese Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Avenida Wai Long, Taipa, Macau, 999078, China; Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Liver Diseases of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China; Department of Hepatology, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China.
| | - Lidan Luo
- Department of Hepatology, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China; Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Liver Diseases of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.15, Yingchun Road, Luohu District, Guangdong, 518033, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Liang S, Lin J, Xiao M, Shi T, Song Y, Zhang T, Zhou X, Li R, Zhao X, Yang Z, Ti H. Effect of Haoqin Qingdan Tang on influenza A virus through the Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) pathway. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 129:155680. [PMID: 38728923 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2024.155680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Influenza, a viral respiratory illness, leads to seasonal epidemics and occasional pandemics. Given the rising resistance and adverse reactions associated with anti-influenza drugs, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) emerges as a promising approach to counteract the influenza virus. Specifically, Haoqin Qingdan Tang (HQQDT), a TCM formula, has been employed as an adjuvant treatment for influenza in China. However, the active compounds and underlying mechanisms of HQQDT remain unknown. AIM The aim of this study was to investigate HQQDT's antiviral and anti-inflammatory activities in both in vivo and in vitro, and further reveal its active ingredients and mechanism. METHODS In vivo and in vitro experiments were conducted to verify the antiviral and anti-inflammatory activities of HQQDT. Subsequently, the active ingredients and mechanism of HQQDT were explored through combining high performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-Q-TOF-MS) analysis and network pharmacology. Finally, the examinations of cell cytokines and signaling pathways aimed to elucidate the predicted mechanisms. RESULTS The results indicated that HQQDT exhibited inhibitory effects on influenza viruses A/PR/8/34 (H1N1), A/HK/1/68 (H3N2), and A/California/4/2009 (H1N1) in vitro. Furthermore, HQQDT enhanced the survival rate of influenza-infected mice, reduced the lung index and lung virus titer, and mitigated lung tissue damage in vivo. The proinflammatory cytokine expression levels upon influenza virus infection in PR8-induced A549 cells or mice were suppressed by HQQDT, including IL-6, IL-1β, CCL2, CCL4, IP-10, interferon β1 (IFN-β1), the interferon regulatory factor 3 (IRF3), and hemagglutinin (HA). Twenty-two active components of HQQDT against influenza were identified using HPLC-Q-TOF-MS analysis. Based on network pharmacological predictions, the JAK/STAT signaling pathway is considered the most relevant for HQQDT's action against influenza. Finally, western blot assays revealed that HQQDT regulated the protein level of the JAK/STAT signaling pathway in PR8-infected A549 cells and lung tissue. CONCLUSION These findings verified the antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects of HQQDT through JAK-STAT signaling pathway in influenza infections, laying the foundation for its further development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shiyun Liang
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Jieling Lin
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Mengjie Xiao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Measurement and Emergency Test Technology, Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center for Ambient Mass Spectrometry, Institute of Analysis, Guangdong Academy of Sciences(China National Analytical Center, Guangzhou, Guangzhou, 510070, China
| | - Tongmei Shi
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Yu Song
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Measurement and Emergency Test Technology, Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center for Ambient Mass Spectrometry, Institute of Analysis, Guangdong Academy of Sciences(China National Analytical Center, Guangzhou, Guangzhou, 510070, China
| | - Tianbo Zhang
- Stanford Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Xi Zhou
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Measurement and Emergency Test Technology, Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center for Ambient Mass Spectrometry, Institute of Analysis, Guangdong Academy of Sciences(China National Analytical Center, Guangzhou, Guangzhou, 510070, China
| | - Runfeng Li
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, China
| | - Xin Zhao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Measurement and Emergency Test Technology, Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center for Ambient Mass Spectrometry, Institute of Analysis, Guangdong Academy of Sciences(China National Analytical Center, Guangzhou, Guangzhou, 510070, China
| | - Zifeng Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, China; Guangzhou Laboratory, Guangzhou, 510000, China; Guangzhou Key Laboratory for Clinical Rapid Diagnosis and Early Warning of Infectious Diseases, Guangzhou, 510000, China; State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macau, 519020, China.
| | - Huihui Ti
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, 510006, China; Guangdong Province Precise Medicine Big Date of Traditional Chinese Medicine EngineeringTechnology Research Center, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, 510006, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Duan X, Wang N, Peng D. Application of network pharmacology in synergistic action of Chinese herbal compounds. Theory Biosci 2024:10.1007/s12064-024-00419-2. [PMID: 38888845 DOI: 10.1007/s12064-024-00419-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Herbal medicines are frequently blended in the form of multi-drug combinations primarily based on the precept of medicinal compatibility, to achieve the purpose of treating diseases. However, due to the lack of appropriate techniques and the multi-component and multi-target nature of Chinese medicine compounding, it is tough to explain how the drugs interact with each other. As a rising discipline, cyber pharmacology has formed a new approach characterized by using holistic and systematic "network targets" via the cross-fertilization of computer technology, bioinformatics, and different multidisciplinary disciplines. It can broadly screen the active ingredients of traditional Chinese medicine, enhance the effective utilization of drugs, and elucidate the mechanism of drug action. We will overview the principles of Chinese medicine compounding and dispensing, the research methods of network pharmacology, and the software of network pharmacology in the lookup of compounded Chinese medicines, aiming to supply thoughts for the better application of network pharmacology in the research of Chinese medicines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xianchun Duan
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine (Anhui University of Chinese Medicine), Ministry of Education, Hefei, 230038, People's Republic of China
| | - Ni Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Daiyin Peng
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China.
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine (Anhui University of Chinese Medicine), Ministry of Education, Hefei, 230038, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Guo Q, Ji J, Chen F, Shi J, Liu H, Zhu C. Effect of black cloth ointment on hypertrophic scar formation: An investigation using integrated network pharmacology and animal assay. Skin Res Technol 2024; 30:e13791. [PMID: 38895902 PMCID: PMC11187852 DOI: 10.1111/srt.13791] [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: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 05/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hypertrophic scars (HS) are a common disfiguring condition in daily clinical encounters which brings a lot of anxieties and concerns to patients, but the treatment options of HS are limited. Black cloth ointment (BCO), as a cosmetic ointment applicable to facial scars, has shown promising therapeutic effects for facial scarring. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying its therapeutic effects remain unclear. MATERIAL AND METHODS Network pharmacology was first applied to analyze the major active components of BCO and the related signaling pathways. Subsequently, rabbit ear scar model was successfully established to determine the pharmacological effects of BCO and its active component β-elemene on HS. Finally, the molecular mechanism of BCO and β-elemene was analyzed by Western blot. RESULTS Through the network pharmacology, it showed that β-elemene was the main active ingredient of BCO, and it could significantly improve the pathological structure of HS and reduce collagen deposition. BCO and β-elemene could increase the expression of ER stress-related markers and promote the increase of apoptotic proteins in the Western blot experiment and induce the apoptosis of myofibroblasts. CONCLUSIONS Our findings indicate that the material basis for the scar-improving effects of the BCO is β-elemene, and cellular apoptosis is the key mechanism through which the BCO and β-elemene exert their effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qin Guo
- Department of DermatologyAffiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese MedicineNanjingChina
| | - Jin Ji
- Department of DermatologyAffiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese MedicineNanjingChina
| | - Fang Chen
- Department of DermatologyAffiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese MedicineNanjingChina
| | - Jianxin Shi
- Department of DermatologyAffiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese MedicineNanjingChina
| | - Huaxu Liu
- Hospital for Skin DiseasesShandong First Medical UniversityJinanChina
| | - Changle Zhu
- Department of PathologyAffiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese MedicineNanjingChina
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Liang Y, Wang F, Song Y, Tang C, Wu R, Feng Q, Han M, Li Y, Chen W, Zhang J, Jiang M, Wang Z. LC-MS based metabonomics study on protective mechanism of ESWW in cerebral ischemia via CYTC/Apaf-1/NDRG4 pathway. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 128:155543. [PMID: 38657364 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2024.155543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ershiwuwei Zhenzhu pills was originally recorded in the Tibetan medical book Si Bu Yi Dian in the 8th century AD and is now included in the Pharmacopoeia of the People's Republic of China (2020). The pills can calm the nerves and open the mind as well as treat cerebral ischemia reperfusion injury, stroke, hemiplegia. However, its quality standards have not yet been established, and the therapeutic effect on cerebral ischemia by regulating the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway has not been elucidated. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS LC-MS was used to establish quality standards for Ershiwuwei Zhenzhu pills. Metabonomics, molecular docking, neuroethology, cerebral infarction ratio, pathological detection of diencephalon, cortex, and hippocampus, and molecular biology techniques were used to reveal the mechanism of the pills in regulating the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway to treat cerebral ischemia. RESULTS The contents of 20 chemical components in Ershiwuwei Zhenzhu pills from 12 batches and 8 manufacturers was determined for the first time. Eleven differential metabolites and three metabolic pathways, namely, fructose and mannose metabolism, glycerophospholipid metabolism, and purine metabolism, were identified by metabonomics. The pills improved the neuroethology abnormalities of MCAO rats and the pathological damage in the diencephalon and decreased the ratio of cerebral infarction. It also significantly reduced the mRNA expression of AIF, Apaf-1, cleared caspase8, CytC, and P53 mRNA in the brain tissue and the protein expression of Apaf-1 and CYTC and increased the protein expression of NDRG4. CONCLUSION In vitro quantitative analysis of the in vitro chemical components of Ershiwuwei Zhenzhu pills has laid the foundation for improving its quality control. The potential mechanism of the pills in treating cerebral ischemia may be related to the Apaf-1/CYTC/NDRG4 apoptosis pathway. This work provides guidance for clinical drug use for patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan Liang
- College of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 611137, China; State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Fangjie Wang
- College of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 611137, China; State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Yinglian Song
- College of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 611137, China; State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Ce Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China; College of Ethnomedicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 611137, China
| | - Ruixia Wu
- College of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 611137, China; State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Qiaoqiao Feng
- College of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 611137, China; State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Mengtian Han
- College of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 611137, China; State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Yi Li
- College of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 611137, China; State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Wanyue Chen
- College of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 611137, China; State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Jingwen Zhang
- College of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 611137, China; State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China; College of Ethnomedicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 611137, China
| | - Miao Jiang
- College of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 611137, China; State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China.
| | - Zhang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China; College of Ethnomedicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 611137, China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Zhao X, Su H, Chen H, Tang X, Li W, Huang A, Fang G, Chen Q, Luo Y, Pang Y. Integrated serum pharmacochemistry and network pharmacology to explore the mechanism of Yi-Shan-Hong formula in alleviating chronic liver injury. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 128:155439. [PMID: 38537438 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2024.155439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 01/27/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic liver injury (CLI) is a complex condition that requires effective therapeutic interventions. The Yi-Shan-Hong (YSH) formula is an empirically derived remedy that has shown effectiveness and safety in the management of chronic liver damage. However, the bioactive components and multifaceted mechanisms of YSH remain inadequately understood. PURPOSE To examine the bioactive compounds and functional processes that contribute to the therapeutic benefits of YSH against CLI. METHODS Serum pharmacochemistry and network pharmacology were employed to identify active compounds and possible targets of YSH in CLI. In addition, YSH was also given in three doses to d-(+)-galactosamine hydrochloride (D-GalN) -induced CLI rats to test its therapeutic efficacy. RESULTS The analysis of serum samples successfully detected 25 compounds from YSH. Searches on the databases resulted in 277 genes as being correlated with chemicals in YSH, and 397 genes associated with CLI. In vivo experiments revealed that YSH displayed a notable therapeutic impact on liver injury caused by d-GalN. This was evidenced by enhanced liver function and histopathological improvements, reduced oxidative stress response, proinflammatory factors, and fibrosis levels. Importantly, no discernible adverse effects were observed. Furthermore, the administration of YSH treatment reversed the activation of AKT phosphorylation caused by d-GalN, aligning with the findings of the network pharmacology study. CONCLUSION These findings provide preclinical evidence of YSH's therapeutic value in CLI and highlight its hepatoprotective action via the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinyi Zhao
- College of Zhuang Medicine, Guangxi Zhuang Yao Medicine Center of Engineering and Technology, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning 530200, China
| | - Hua Su
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Guangxi Institute of Chinese Medicine & Pharmaceutical Science, Nanning 530022, China
| | - Haiyan Chen
- College of Zhuang Medicine, Guangxi Zhuang Yao Medicine Center of Engineering and Technology, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning 530200, China
| | - Xiusong Tang
- College of Zhuang Medicine, Guangxi Zhuang Yao Medicine Center of Engineering and Technology, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning 530200, China
| | - Wenling Li
- College of Zhuang Medicine, Guangxi Zhuang Yao Medicine Center of Engineering and Technology, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning 530200, China
| | - An Huang
- College of Zhuang Medicine, Guangxi Zhuang Yao Medicine Center of Engineering and Technology, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning 530200, China
| | - Gang Fang
- College of Zhuang Medicine, Guangxi Zhuang Yao Medicine Center of Engineering and Technology, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning 530200, China
| | - Qing Chen
- College of Zhuang Medicine, Guangxi Zhuang Yao Medicine Center of Engineering and Technology, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning 530200, China.
| | - Yudong Luo
- Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine Bainianle Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., Nanning 530023, China.
| | - Yuzhou Pang
- College of Zhuang Medicine, Guangxi Zhuang Yao Medicine Center of Engineering and Technology, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning 530200, China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Mi Y, Liang Y, Liu Y, Bai Z, Li N, Tan S, Hou Y. Integrated network pharmacology and experimental validation-based approach to reveal the underlying mechanisms and key material basis of Jinhua Qinggan granules against acute lung injury. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 326:117920. [PMID: 38373663 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.117920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Jinhua Qinggan granules (JHQG), the traditional Chinese formula come into the market in 2016, has been proved clinically effective against coronavirus disease. Acute lung injury (ALI) is a major complication of respiratory infection such as coronavirus and influenza virus, with a high clinical fatality rate. Macrophage activation-induced inflammatory response plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of ALI. However, the participation of inflammatory response in the efficacy of JHQG and its material basis against ALI is still unknown. AIM OF THE STUDY The research aims to investigate the inflammatory response-involved efficacy of JHQG on ALI, explore the "ingredient-target-pathway" mechanisms, and searching for key material basis of JHQG by integrated network pharmacology and experimental validation-based approach. MATERIALS AND METHODS Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced ALI mice was established to assess the protective impact of JHQG. Network pharmacology was utilized to identify potential targets of JHQG and investigate its action mechanisms related to inflammatory response in treating ALI. The therapeutic effect and mechanism of the primary active ingredient in JHQG was verified through high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and a combination of wet experiments. RESULTS JHQG remarkably alleviated lung damage in mice model via suppressing macrophage activation, and inhibiting pro-inflammatory mediator level, p-ERK and p-STAT3 expression, TLR4/NF-κB activation. Network pharmacology combined with HPLC found luteolin is the main effective component of JHQG, and it could interact with TLR4/MD2 complex, further exerting the anti-inflammatory property and the protective role against ALI. CONCLUSIONS In summary, our finding clarified the underlying mechanisms and material basis of JHQG therapy for ALI by integrated network pharmacology and experimental validation-based strategy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan Mi
- Key Laboratory of Bioresource Research and Development of Liaoning Province, College of Life and Health Sciences, National Frontiers Science Center for Industrial Intelligence and Systems Optimization, Key Laboratory of Data Analytics and Optimization for Smart Industry, Ministry of Education, Northeastern University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yusheng Liang
- Key Laboratory of Bioresource Research and Development of Liaoning Province, College of Life and Health Sciences, National Frontiers Science Center for Industrial Intelligence and Systems Optimization, Key Laboratory of Data Analytics and Optimization for Smart Industry, Ministry of Education, Northeastern University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yeshu Liu
- Key Laboratory of Bioresource Research and Development of Liaoning Province, College of Life and Health Sciences, National Frontiers Science Center for Industrial Intelligence and Systems Optimization, Key Laboratory of Data Analytics and Optimization for Smart Industry, Ministry of Education, Northeastern University, Shenyang, China
| | - Zisong Bai
- Key Laboratory of Bioresource Research and Development of Liaoning Province, College of Life and Health Sciences, National Frontiers Science Center for Industrial Intelligence and Systems Optimization, Key Laboratory of Data Analytics and Optimization for Smart Industry, Ministry of Education, Northeastern University, Shenyang, China; School of Traditional Chinese Materia Medica, Key Laboratory of Innovative Traditional Chinese Medicine for Major Chronic Diseases of Liaoning Province, Key Laboratory for TCM Material Basis Study and Innovative Drug Development of Shenyang City, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Ning Li
- School of Traditional Chinese Materia Medica, Key Laboratory of Innovative Traditional Chinese Medicine for Major Chronic Diseases of Liaoning Province, Key Laboratory for TCM Material Basis Study and Innovative Drug Development of Shenyang City, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Shaowen Tan
- Key Laboratory of Bioresource Research and Development of Liaoning Province, College of Life and Health Sciences, National Frontiers Science Center for Industrial Intelligence and Systems Optimization, Key Laboratory of Data Analytics and Optimization for Smart Industry, Ministry of Education, Northeastern University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yue Hou
- Key Laboratory of Bioresource Research and Development of Liaoning Province, College of Life and Health Sciences, National Frontiers Science Center for Industrial Intelligence and Systems Optimization, Key Laboratory of Data Analytics and Optimization for Smart Industry, Ministry of Education, Northeastern University, Shenyang, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Long Q, Li T, Zhu Q, He L, Zhao B. SuanZaoRen decoction alleviates neuronal loss, synaptic damage and ferroptosis of AD via activating DJ-1/Nrf2 signaling pathway. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 323:117679. [PMID: 38160863 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.117679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2023] [Revised: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE SuanZaoRen Decoction (SZRD), a famous herbal prescription, and has been widely proven to have positive therapeutic effects on insomnia, depression and Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, the anti-AD molecular mechanism of SZRD remains to be further investigated. AIM OF THE STUDY To elucidate the molecular mechanism of SZRD's improvement in AD's neuronal loss, synaptic damage and ferroptosis by regulating DJ-1/Nrf2 signaling pathway. MATERIALS AND METHODS LC-MS/MS was used to detect the active ingredients from SZRD. APP/PS1 mice was treated with SZRD and a ferroptosis inhibitor (Liproxstatin-1), respectively. Upon the completion of behavioral tests, Nissl staining, FJB staining, Golgi staining, immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry, and transmission electron microscopy were preformed to evaluate the effects of SZRD on neuronal loss, synaptic damage, Aβ deposition. Iron staining, transmission electron microscopy, and iron assay kit was performed to estimate the effects of SZRD on ferroptosis. SOD kit, MDA kit, GSH kit, and GSH/GSSG kit were utilized to measure the oxidative stress levels in the hippocampus. The protein expression of TfR1, FTH1, FTL, FPN1, DJ-1, Nrf2, GPX4, SLC7A11, and ACSL4 were detected by Western blot. RESULTS A total of 16 active ingredients were identified from SZRD extract. SZRD SZRD significantly alleviated learning and memory impairment in APP/PS1 mice. SZRD improved the hippocampal neuronal loss and degenerated neurons in APP/PS1 mice via inhibiting the Aβ deposit. SZRD mitigated the hippocampal synaptic damage in APP/PS1 mice. SZRD inhibited iron accumulation, and alleviated the oxidative stress level in the hippocampus of APP/PS1 mice. Meanwhile, SZRD could up-regulate the protein expression level of FPN1, DJ-1, Nrf2, GPX4 and SLC7A11 in the hippocampus, and inhibit TfR1, FTH1, FTL, and ACSL4 protein expression. CONCLUSION SZRD alleviated neuronal loss, synaptic damage and ferroptosis in AD via activating DJ-1/Nrf2 signaling pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qinghua Long
- Health Medical Center, Hubei Minzu University, Enshi, 445000, China; Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Occurrence and Intervention of Rheumatic Disease, Hubei Minzu University, Enshi, 445000, China
| | - Tong Li
- Health Medical Center, Hubei Minzu University, Enshi, 445000, China
| | - Qihang Zhu
- Health Medical Center, Hubei Minzu University, Enshi, 445000, China; Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Occurrence and Intervention of Rheumatic Disease, Hubei Minzu University, Enshi, 445000, China
| | - Liling He
- Health Medical Center, Hubei Minzu University, Enshi, 445000, China.
| | - Binbin Zhao
- Basic Medicine College, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, 430065, China; Engineering Research Center of TCM Protection Technology and New Product Development for the Elderly Brain Health, Ministry of Education, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, 430065, China; Hubei Shizhen Laboratory, Wuhan, 430065, China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Zhang Y, Wang T, Song Y, Chen M, Hou B, Yao B, Ma K, Song Y, Wang S, Zhang D, Liang J, Wei C. Mechanism of Bazi Bushen capsule in delaying the senescence of mesenchymal stem cells based on network pharmacology and experimental validation. Heliyon 2024; 10:e27646. [PMID: 38509951 PMCID: PMC10950659 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e27646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Ageing is becoming an increasingly serious problem; therefore, there is an urgent need to find safe and effective anti-ageing drugs. Aims To investigate the effects of Bazi Bushen capsule (BZBS) on the senescence of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and explore its mechanism of action. Methods Network pharmacology was used to predict the targets of BZBS in delaying senescence in MSCs. For in vitro studies, MSCs were treated with D-gal, BZBS, and NMN, and cell viability, cell senescence, stemness-related genes, and cell cycle were studied using cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay, SA-β-galactosidase (SA-β-gal) staining, Quantitative Real-Time PCR (qPCR) and flow cytometry (FCM), respectively. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alizarin red, and oil red staining were used to determine the osteogenic and lipid differentiation abilities of MSCs. Finally, the expression of senescence-related genes and cyclin-related factors was detected by qPCR and western blotting. Results Network pharmacological analysis suggested that BZBS delayed cell senescence by interfering in the cell cycle. Our in vitro studies suggested that BZBS could significantly increase cell viability (P < 0.01), decrease the quantity of β-galactosidase+ cells (P < 0.01), downregulate p16 and p21 (P < 0.05, P < 0.01), improve adipogenic and osteogenic differentiation, and upregulate Nanog, OCT4 and SOX2 genes (P < 0.05, P < 0.01) in senescent MSCs. Moreover, BZBS significantly reduced the proportion of senescent MSCs in the G0/G1 phase (P < 0.01) and enhanced the expression of CDK4, Cyclin D1, and E2F1 (P < 0.05, P < 0.01, respectively). Upon treatment with HY-50767A, a CDK4 inhibitor, the upregulation of E2F1 was no longer observed in the BZBS group. Conclusions BZBS can protect MSCs against D-gal-induced senescence, which may be associated with cell cycle regulation via the Cyclin D1/CDK4/E2F1 signalling pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yaping Zhang
- Graduate School, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, 050091, China
| | - Tongxing Wang
- National Key Laboratory for Innovation and Transformation of Luobing Theory, Shijiazhuang, 050035, China
- High-level TCM Key Disciplines of National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine—Luobing Theory, Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, 050035, China
- Key Laboratory of State Administration of TCM (Cardio-Cerebral Vessel Collateral Disease), Shijiazhuang, 050035, China
| | - Yanfei Song
- National Key Laboratory for Innovation and Transformation of Luobing Theory, Shijiazhuang, 050035, China
- High-level TCM Key Disciplines of National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine—Luobing Theory, Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, 050035, China
- Shijiazhuang Compound Traditional Chinese Medicine Technology Innovation Center, Shijiazhuang, 050035, China
| | - Meng Chen
- National Key Laboratory for Innovation and Transformation of Luobing Theory, Shijiazhuang, 050035, China
- High-level TCM Key Disciplines of National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine—Luobing Theory, Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, 050035, China
- Shijiazhuang Compound Traditional Chinese Medicine Technology Innovation Center, Shijiazhuang, 050035, China
| | - Bin Hou
- National Key Laboratory for Innovation and Transformation of Luobing Theory, Shijiazhuang, 050035, China
- High-level TCM Key Disciplines of National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine—Luobing Theory, Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, 050035, China
| | - Bing Yao
- National Key Laboratory for Innovation and Transformation of Luobing Theory, Shijiazhuang, 050035, China
- High-level TCM Key Disciplines of National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine—Luobing Theory, Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, 050035, China
- Shijiazhuang Compound Traditional Chinese Medicine Technology Innovation Center, Shijiazhuang, 050035, China
| | - Kun Ma
- National Key Laboratory for Innovation and Transformation of Luobing Theory, Shijiazhuang, 050035, China
- High-level TCM Key Disciplines of National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine—Luobing Theory, Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, 050035, China
- Hebei Clinical Research Center of Cardiovascular Disease of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, 050035, China
| | - Yahui Song
- National Key Laboratory for Innovation and Transformation of Luobing Theory, Shijiazhuang, 050035, China
- High-level TCM Key Disciplines of National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine—Luobing Theory, Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, 050035, China
| | - Siwei Wang
- Graduate School, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, 050091, China
- National Key Laboratory for Innovation and Transformation of Luobing Theory, Shijiazhuang, 050035, China
- High-level TCM Key Disciplines of National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine—Luobing Theory, Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, 050035, China
| | - Dan Zhang
- Graduate School, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, 050091, China
- National Key Laboratory for Innovation and Transformation of Luobing Theory, Shijiazhuang, 050035, China
- High-level TCM Key Disciplines of National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine—Luobing Theory, Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, 050035, China
| | - Junqing Liang
- National Key Laboratory for Innovation and Transformation of Luobing Theory, Shijiazhuang, 050035, China
- High-level TCM Key Disciplines of National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine—Luobing Theory, Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, 050035, China
| | - Cong Wei
- Graduate School, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, 050091, China
- National Key Laboratory for Innovation and Transformation of Luobing Theory, Shijiazhuang, 050035, China
- High-level TCM Key Disciplines of National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine—Luobing Theory, Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, 050035, China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Wu Y, Fang Y, Li Y, Au R, Cheng C, Li W, Xu F, Cui Y, Zhu L, Shen H. A network pharmacology approach and experimental validation to investigate the anticancer mechanism of Qi-Qin-Hu-Chang formula against colitis-associated colorectal cancer through induction of apoptosis via JNK/p38 MAPK signaling pathway. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 319:117323. [PMID: 37852337 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.117323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE The Qi-Qin-Hu-Chang Formula (QQHCF) is a traditional Chinese medicine prescription that is clinically used at the Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine for the treatment of colitis-associated colorectal cancer (CAC). AIM OF THE STUDY To evaluate the potential therapeutic effects of QQHCF on a CAC mouse model and investigate its underlying mechanisms using network pharmacology and experimental validation. MATERIALS AND METHODS The active components and potential targets of QQHCF were obtained from Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology (TCMSP) and herb-ingredient-targets gene network were constructed by Cytoscape 3.9.2. Target genes of CAC were obtained from GeneCards, Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man, and DrugBank database. The drug disease target protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed and the core targets were visualized and identified using Cytoscape. The Metascape database was used for GO and KEGG enrichment analysis. UHPLC-MS/MS was used to further identify the active compounds in QQHCF. Subsequently, the therapeutic effects and potential mechanism of QQHCF against CAC were investigated in AOM/DSS-induced CAC mouse in vivo, and HT-29 and HCT116 cells in vitro. Finally, interactions between JNK, p38, and active ingredients were assessed by molecular docking. RESULTS A total of 176 active compounds, 273 potential therapeutic targets, and 2460 CAC-related target genes were obtained. The number of common targets between QQHCF and CAC were 165. KEGG pathway analysis indicated that the MAPK signaling pathway was closely associated with CAC, which may be the potential mechanism of QQHCF against CAC. Network pharmacology and UHPLC-MS/MS analyses showed that the active compounds of QQHCF included quercetin, kaempferol, luteolin, wogonin, oxymatrine, lupanine, and baicalin. Animal experiments demonstrated that QQHCF reduced tumor load, number, and size in AOM/DSS-treated mice, and induced apoptosis in colon tissue. In vitro experiments further showed that QQHCF induced apoptosis and inhibited cell viability, migration, and invasion in HCT116 and HT-29 cells. Notably, QQHCF activated the JNK/p38 MAPK signaling pathway both in vivo and in vitro. Molecular docking analysis revealed an ability for the main components of QQHCF and JNK/p38 to bind. CONCLUSION The present study demonstrated that QQHCF could ameliorate AOM/DSS-induced CAC in mice by activating the JNK/p38 MAPK signaling pathway. These results have important implications for the development of effective treatment strategies for CAC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuguang Wu
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210029, China; The First School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Yulai Fang
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Yanan Li
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210029, China; The First School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Ryan Au
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210029, China; The First School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China; Academy of Chinese Culture and Health Sciences, Oakland, CA, 94612, USA
| | - Cheng Cheng
- School of Health Preservation and Rehabilitation, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, China
| | - Weiyang Li
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210029, China; The First School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Feng Xu
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210029, China; The First School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Yuan Cui
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210029, China; The First School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Lei Zhu
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210029, China.
| | - Hong Shen
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210029, China.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Chen R, Song C, Qiu J, Su Q, Wang X, Deng G, Cheng K, Chen X, Xiang W, Liu T, Chen X, Wu J. Exploring the potential mechanism of Taohong Siwu decoction in the treatment of avascular necrosis of the femoral head based on network pharmacology and molecular docking. Medicine (Baltimore) 2023; 102:e35312. [PMID: 38115279 PMCID: PMC10727545 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000035312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Based on network pharmacology and molecular docking, this study seeks to investigate the mechanism of Taohong Siwu decoction (THSWD) in the treatment of avascular necrosis of the femoral head (AVNFH). The Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology database was used in this investigation to obtain the active ingredients and related targets for each pharmaceutical constituent in THSWD. To find disease-related targets, the terms "avascular necrosis of the femoral head," "necrosis of the femoral head," "steroid-induced necrosis of the femoral head," "osteonecrosis," and "avascular necrosis of the bone" were searched in the databases DisGeNET, GeneCards, Comparative Toxicogenomics Database, and MalaCards. Following the identification of the overlap targets of THSWD and AVNFH, enrichment analysis using gene ontology, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes, Reactome, and WikiPathways was conducted. The "THSWD-drug-active compound-intersection gene-hub gene-AVNFH" network and protein-protein interaction network were built using Cytoscape 3.9.1 and string, and CytoHubba was used to screen hub genes. The binding activities of hub gene targets and key components were confirmed by molecular docking. 152 prospective therapeutic gene targets were found in the bioinformatics study of ONFH treated with THSWD, including 38 major gene targets and 10 hub gene targets. The enrichment analysis of 38 key therapeutic targets showed that the biological process of gene ontology analysis mainly involved cytokine-mediated signaling pathway, angiogenesis, cellular response to reactive oxygen species, death-inducing signaling complex. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes signaling pathway mainly involves TNF signaling pathway, IL-17 signaling pathway, and the Recactome pathway mainly involves Signaling by Interleukins, Apoptosis, and Intrinsic Pathway for Apoptosis. WikiPathways signaling pathway mainly involves TNF-related weak inducer of apoptosis signaling pathway, IL-18 signaling pathway. According to the findings of enrichment analysis, THSWD cured AVNFH by regulating angiogenesis, cellular hypoxia, inflammation, senescence, apoptosis, cytokines, and cellular proliferation through the aforementioned targets and signaling pathways. The primary component of THSWD exhibits a strong binding force with the key protein of AVNFH. This study sheds new light on the biological mechanism of THSWD in treating AVNFH by revealing the multi-component, multi-target, and multi-pathway features and molecular docking mechanism of THSWD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rui Chen
- Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology (Trauma and Bone-Setting), The Affiliated Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Chao Song
- Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology (Trauma and Bone-Setting), The Affiliated Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Junjie Qiu
- Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology (Trauma and Bone-Setting), The Affiliated Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Qifan Su
- Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology (Trauma and Bone-Setting), The Affiliated Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Xiaoqiang Wang
- Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology (Trauma and Bone-Setting), The Affiliated Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Guanghui Deng
- Department of Orthopedics, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Kang Cheng
- Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology (Trauma and Bone-Setting), The Affiliated Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Xiaoyu Chen
- Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology (Trauma and Bone-Setting), The Affiliated Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Wei Xiang
- Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology (Trauma and Bone-Setting), The Affiliated Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Tao Liu
- Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology (Trauma and Bone-Setting), The Affiliated Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Xiaojun Chen
- Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology (Trauma and Bone-Setting), The Affiliated Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Jiaqi Wu
- Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology (Trauma and Bone-Setting), The Affiliated Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Sun Q, Jin H, Li W, Tong P, Yuan W. Study of the curative effect of Zhang's Xibi formula and its underlying mechanism involving inhibition of inflammatory responses and delay of knee osteoarthritis. J Orthop Surg Res 2023; 18:963. [PMID: 38098028 PMCID: PMC10722826 DOI: 10.1186/s13018-023-04453-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To verify the clinical efficacy of Zhang's Xibi formula (ZSXBF) and explain the mechanism underlying its therapeutic effect. METHODS Preliminary elucidation of the clinical efficacy of ZSXBF in treating KOA in self-control studies, exploration of its mechanism of action with network pharmacology methods, and validation in animal experiments. RESULTS In clinical studies, ZSXBF administration effectively improved patient quality of life and reduce pain. Network pharmacology was used to explore the possible mechanisms underlying its treatment effect, and after verification in clinical experience and animal experiments, it was found that ZSXBF regulated the expression of immune-related proteins such as IL-17, ERK1, and TP53 in mouse knee joints. CONCLUSION ZSXBF, which is a traditional Chinese medicine compound that is used to clear heat and detoxify, can effectively improve the clinical symptoms of KOA patients, and its underlying mechanism includes the regulation of human immune-related proteins.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qi Sun
- Institute of Orthopedics and Traumatology of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine), Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
- Fuyang TCM Hospital of Orthopedics Affiliated to Zhejiang, Chinese Medical University (Hangzhou Fuyang Hospital of Orthopedics of Traditional Chinese Medicine), Hangzhou, China
- Department of Orthopedic, Luoyang Orthopedic Hospital of Henan Province, Luoyang, China
| | - Hongting Jin
- Institute of Orthopedics and Traumatology of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine), Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wuyin Li
- Department of Orthopedic, Luoyang Orthopedic Hospital of Henan Province, Luoyang, China
| | - Peijian Tong
- Institute of Orthopedics and Traumatology of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine), Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wenhua Yuan
- Institute of Orthopedics and Traumatology of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine), Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Chen L, Yu T, Zhai Y, Nie H, Li X, Ding Y. Luteolin Enhances Transepithelial Sodium Transport in the Lung Alveolar Model: Integrating Network Pharmacology and Mechanism Study. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10122. [PMID: 37373270 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241210122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Luteolin (Lut), a natural flavonoid compound existing in Perilla frutescens (L.) Britton, has been proven to play a protective role in the following biological aspects: inflammatory, viral, oxidant, and tumor-related. Lut can alleviate acute lung injury (ALI), manifested mainly by preventing the accumulation of inflammation-rich edematous fluid, while the protective actions of Lut on transepithelial ion transport in ALI were seldom researched. We found that Lut could improve the lung appearance/pathological structure in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced mouse ALI models and reduce the wet/dry weight ratio, bronchoalveolar protein, and inflammatory cytokines. Meanwhile, Lut upregulated the expression level of the epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) in both the primary alveolar epithelial type 2 (AT2) cells and three-dimensional (3D) alveolar epithelial organoid model that recapitulated essential structural and functional aspects of the lung. Finally, by analyzing the 84 interaction genes between Lut and ALI/acute respiratory distress syndrome using GO and KEGG enrichment of network pharmacology, we found that the JAK/STAT signaling pathway might be involved in the network. Experimental data by knocking down STAT3 proved that Lut could reduce the phosphorylation of JAK/STAT and enhance the level of SOCS3, which abrogated the inhibition of ENaC expression induced by LPS accordingly. The evidence supported that Lut could attenuate inflammation-related ALI by enhancing transepithelial sodium transport, at least partially, via the JAK/STAT pathway, which may offer a promising therapeutic strategy for edematous lung diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lei Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Tong Yu
- Department of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, College of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Yiman Zhai
- Department of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, College of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Hongguang Nie
- Department of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, College of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Xin Li
- Department of Chemistry, School of Forensic Medicine, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
- Liaoning Province Key Laboratory of Forensic Bio-Evidence Sciences, Shenyang 110122, China
- Center of Forensic Investigation, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Yan Ding
- Department of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, College of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Xing N, Qin J, Ren D, Du Q, Li Y, Mi J, Zhang F, Ai L, Zhang S, Zhang Y, Wang S. Integrating UPLC-Q-Exactive Orbitrap/MS, network pharmacology and experimental validation to reveal the potential mechanism of Tibetan medicine Rhodiola granules in improving myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 314:116572. [PMID: 37201662 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY RELEVANCE Rhodiola granules (RG) is a traditional Tibetan medicine prescription that can be used to improve the symptoms of ischemia and hypoxia in cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. However, there is no report on its use to improve myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury, and its potential active ingredients and mechanism against myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury remain unclear. AIM OF THE STUDY This study aimed to reveal the potential bioactive components and underlying pharmacological mechanisms of RG in improving myocardial I/R injury through a comprehensive strategy. MATERIALS AND METHODS UPLC-Q-Exactive Orbitrap/MS technology was used to analyze the chemical components of RG, the potential bioactive components and targets were tracked and predicted by the SwissADME and SwissTargetPrediction databases, and the core targets were predicted through the PPI network, as well the functions and pathways were determined by GO and KEGG analysis. In addition, the molecular docking and ligation of the anterior descending coronary artery-induced rat I/R models were experimentally validated. RESULTS A total of 37 ingredients were detected from RG, including nine flavones, ten flavonoid glycosides, one glycoside, eight organic acids, four amides, two nucleosides, one amino acid, and two other components. Among them, 15 chemical components, such as salidroside, morin, diosmetin, and gallic acid were identified as key active compounds. Ten core targets, including AKT1, VEGF, PTGS2, and STAT3, were discovered through the analysis of the PPI network constructed from 124 common potential targets. These possible targets were involved in the regulation of oxidative stress and HIF-1/VEGF/PI3K-Akt signaling pathways. Furthermore, molecular docking confirmed that the potential bioactive compounds in RG have good potential binding abilities to AKT1, VEGFA, PTGS2, STAT3, and HIF-1α proteins. Then, the animal experiments showed that RG could significantly improve the cardiac function of I/R rats, reduce the size of myocardial infarction, improve the myocardial structure, and reduce the degree of myocardial fibrosis, inflammatory cell infiltration, and myocardial cell apoptosis rate in I/R rats. In addition, we also found that RG could decrease the concentration of AGE, Ox-LDL, MDA, MPO, XOD, SDH, Ca2+, and ROS, and increase the concentration of Trx, TrxR1, SOD, T-AOC, NO, ATP, Na+k+-ATPase, Ca2+-ATPase, and CCO. Moreover, RG could significantly down-regulate the expressions of Bax, Cleaved-caspase3, HIF-1α, and PTGS2, as well up-regulate the expressions of Bcl-2, VEGFA, p-AKT1, and p-STAT3. CONCLUSION In summary, we revealed for the first time the potential active ingredients and mechanisms of RG for myocardial I/R injury therapy through a comprehensive research strategy. RG may synergistically improve myocardial I/R injury through anti-inflammatory, regulating energy metabolism, and oxidative stress, improving I/R-induced myocardial apoptosis, which may be related to the HIF-1/VEGF/PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. Our study provides new insights into the clinical application of RG and also provides a reference for the development and mechanism research of other Tibetan medicine compound preparations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nan Xing
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Jing Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Ethnic Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Dongsheng Ren
- Tibet Rhodiola Pharmaceutical Holding Co. Ltd, Lasa, China
| | - Qinyun Du
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuying Li
- Tibet Rhodiola Pharmaceutical Holding Co. Ltd, Lasa, China
| | - Jiao Mi
- Tibet Rhodiola Pharmaceutical Holding Co. Ltd, Lasa, China
| | - Fengming Zhang
- Tibet Rhodiola Pharmaceutical Holding Co. Ltd, Lasa, China
| | - Li Ai
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Ethnic Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Sanyin Zhang
- Innovative Institute of Chinese Medicine and Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Research Institute of Integrated TCM & Western Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China.
| | - Yi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Ethnic Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China.
| | - Shaohui Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Ethnic Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China.
| |
Collapse
|