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Yan Q, Xing Q, Liu Z, Zou Y, Liu X, Xia H. The phytochemical and pharmacological profile of dandelion. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 179:117334. [PMID: 39180794 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.117334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2024] [Revised: 08/04/2024] [Accepted: 08/21/2024] [Indexed: 08/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Dandelion (Taraxacum genus), a perennial herb belonging to the Asteraceae family is widely distributed in hillside grasslands, roadsides, fields, and river beaches in middle and low-altitude areas. It has a long history of traditional Chinese medicine usage as a heat-clearing and detoxifying agent, often consumed as tea or vegetable. Multiple pharmacological studies have demonstrated the antiviral, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, immune-regulating, antioxidant, anti-tumor, and other effects of the Taraxacum genus. Bioactive compounds associated with these effects include triterpenes and their saponins, phenolic acids, sterols and their glycosides, flavonoids, organic acids, volatile oils, and saccharides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingzi Yan
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Xiangtan Central Hospital, Xiangtan, China.
| | - Qichang Xing
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Xiangtan Central Hospital, Xiangtan, China.
| | - Zheng Liu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Xiangtan Central Hospital, Xiangtan, China.
| | - Yang Zou
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Xiangtan Central Hospital, Xiangtan, China.
| | - Xiang Liu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Xiangtan Central Hospital, Xiangtan, China.
| | - Hong Xia
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Hunan University, Changsha, China.
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Yan KX, Ge BJ, Sang R, Zhao P, Liu XM, Yu MH, Liu XT, Qiu Q, Zhang XM. Taraxasterol attenuates zearalenone-induced kidney damage in mice by modulating oxidative stress and endoplasmic reticulum stress. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 285:117093. [PMID: 39317070 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.117093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2024] [Revised: 09/14/2024] [Accepted: 09/20/2024] [Indexed: 09/26/2024]
Abstract
Taraxasterol is one of the bioactive ingredients from traditional Chinese herb Taraxacum, which exhibits multiple pharmacological activities and protective effects. However, the underlying influence and mechanism of its use against kidney damage caused from zearalenone (ZEA) remain unexplored. The ZEA-induced kidney damage model of mice was established by feeding diets containing ZEA (2 mg/kg), and taraxasterol (5 and 10 mg/kg) was administered by gavage for 28 days. Results demonstrated taraxasterol increased average daily gain (ADG) and average daily feed intake (ADFI), reduced feed-to-gain ratio (F/G) and kidney index of mice induced by ZEA. Taraxasterol alleviated histopathological changes of kidney, reduced ZEA residue and the levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN), uric acid (UA), and creatinine (CRE). Concurrently, taraxasterol reduced the contents of oxidative stress indicator reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA), and increased the activities of antioxidant enzymes catalase (CAT), total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px). Further, taraxasterol up-regulated the mRNA and protein expression of nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), GSH-Px, NAD(P)H quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1), and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), and down-regulated the mRNA and protein expression of KELCH like ECH associated protein (Keap1) in Nrf2/Keap1 pathway. Taraxasterol down-regulated the mRNA and protein expression of immunoglobulin binding protein (Bip), C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP), Bcl-2 associated X (Bax), cysteine protease (Caspase)-12, and Caspase-3, and up-regulated B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) expression in endoplasmic reticulum stress pathway. This study suggests that taraxasterol attenuates ZEA-induced mouse kidney damage through the modulation of Nrf2/Keapl pathway to play antioxidant role and endoplasmic reticulum stress pathway to enhance anti-apoptotic ability. It will provide a basis for taraxasterol as a potential drug to prevent and treat ZEA-induced kidney damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke-Xin Yan
- Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines of Changbai Mountain, Ministry of Education, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Gongyuan Street, Yanji, Jilin 133000, China.
| | - Bing-Jie Ge
- College of Agriculture, Yanbian University, Gongyuan Street, Yanji, Jilin 133000, China.
| | - Rui Sang
- College of Agriculture, Yanbian University, Gongyuan Street, Yanji, Jilin 133000, China.
| | - Peng Zhao
- College of Agriculture, Yanbian University, Gongyuan Street, Yanji, Jilin 133000, China.
| | - Xin-Man Liu
- College of Agriculture, Yanbian University, Gongyuan Street, Yanji, Jilin 133000, China.
| | - Ming-Hong Yu
- College of Agriculture, Yanbian University, Gongyuan Street, Yanji, Jilin 133000, China.
| | - Xiao-Tong Liu
- College of Agriculture, Yanbian University, Gongyuan Street, Yanji, Jilin 133000, China.
| | - Qian Qiu
- College of Agriculture, Yanbian University, Gongyuan Street, Yanji, Jilin 133000, China.
| | - Xue-Mei Zhang
- College of Agriculture, Yanbian University, Gongyuan Street, Yanji, Jilin 133000, China.
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Lin W, Gu B, Gu Y, Zhao R, Huang Y, Fan R, Rong W, Liu Z. Taraxasterol protects against acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity by reducing liver inflammatory response and ameliorating oxidative stress in mice. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 138:112580. [PMID: 38943970 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/01/2024]
Abstract
Acute liver failure is mainly caused by the overdose of acetaminophen (APAP) globally. The traditional Chinese medicinal (TCM) herb, Taraxacum, contains Taraxasterol (TAX) as one of the active components. It is a pentacyclic-triterpene compound isolated from this herb. Present work aimed to investigate the in vitro and in vivo protection effect of TAX in APAP-induced acute liver injury, and determine the potential regulatory mechamisms. The liver injury caused by APAP is attenuated by TAX, as shown by the alleviated pathological changes of mice liver and the reduced serological indexes. TAX evidently controlled the oxidative stress and liver inflammation in mice liver. In vitro studies found that TAX reversed the decrease in LO2 cell viability induced by APAP, and protected LO2 cells from APAP-induced injury. In addition, TAX reduced the secretion of inflammatory factors in RAW264.7 macrophages as induced via APAP. Besides, TAX inhibited oxidative stress in LO2 cells induced by APAP in vitro. Noteworthy, TAX enhanced protein and mRNA expressions of Nrf2 in vivo, and knockdown of Nrf2 by using adeno-associated virus (AAV)-Nrf2-KO attenuated inhibitory impact of TAX in acute liver injury induced by APAP. Also, AAV-NRF2-KO weakened the inhibitory impact of TAX against APAP-triggered liver inflammation and oxidative stress of mice liver. Moreover, TAX activated the Nrf2 signaling in APAP-induced LO2 cells, as shown by the increased nuclear Nrf2 expression together with downstream HO-1 expression in vitro. Inhibition of Nrf2 by using ML-385, anNrf2inhibitor, weakened the inhibitory effect of TAX against APAP-induced oxidative stress and cell injury in LO2 cells. Moreover, inhibition of Nrf2 attenuated anti-inflammatory effect of TAX for APAP-induced RAW264.7 cells. Collectively, TAX could protect against APAP-triggered hepatotoxicitythrough suppression of liver oxidative stress and inflammatory response in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiling Lin
- School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong 226019, China
| | - Bangjie Gu
- School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong 226019, China
| | - Yuanyuan Gu
- School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong 226019, China
| | - Rui Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong 226019, China
| | - Yumeng Huang
- School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong 226019, China
| | - Rui Fan
- School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong 226019, China
| | - Weihao Rong
- Department of Orthopedics, Nanjing Lishui District Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 211299, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Zhaoguo Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong 226019, China.
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Ding X, Fan S. Purple sweet potato polysaccharide ameliorates concanavalin A-induced hepatic injury by inhibiting inflammation and oxidative stress. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 129:155652. [PMID: 38663118 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2024.155652] [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: 01/04/2024] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a prevalent liver disease that can potentially lead to hepatic fibrosis and cirrhosis. The prolonged administration of immunosuppressive medications carries significant risks for patients. Purple sweet potato polysaccharide (PSPP), a macromolecule stored in root tubers, exhibits anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, immune-enhancing, and intestinal flora-regulating properties. Nevertheless, investigation into the role and potential mechanisms of PSPP in AIH remains notably scarce. PURPOSE Our aim was to explore the possible protective impacts of PSPP against concanavalin A (Con A)-induced liver injury in mice. METHODS Polysaccharide was isolated from purple sweet potato tubers using water extraction and alcohol precipitation, followed by purification through DEAE-52 cellulose column chromatography and Sephadex G-100 column chromatography. A highly purified component was obtained, and its monosaccharide composition was characterized by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Mouse and cellular models induced by Con A were set up to investigate the impacts of PSPP on hepatic histopathology, apoptosis, as well as inflammation- and oxidative stress-related proteins in response to PSPP treatment. RESULTS The administration of PSPP significantly reduced hepatic pathological damage, suppressed elevation of ALT and AST levels, and attenuated hepatic apoptosis in Con A-exposed mice. PSPP was found to mitigate Con A-induced inflammation by suppressing the TLR4-P2X7R/NLRP3 signaling pathway in mice. Furthermore, PSPP alleviated Con A-induced oxidative stress by activating the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway in mice. Additionally, PSPP demonstrated the ability to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in RAW264.7 cells induced by Con A in vitro. CONCLUSION PSPP has the potential to ameliorate hepatic inflammation via the TLR4-P2X7R/NLRP3 pathway and inhibit hepatic oxidative stress through the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway during the progression of Con A-induced hepatic injury. The results of this study have unveiled the potential hepatoprotective properties of purple sweet potato and its medicinal value for humans. Moreover, this study serves as a valuable reference, highlighting the potential of PSPP-1 as a drug candidate for the treatment of immune liver injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Ding
- School of Life Sciences, Jiangsu Normal University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Shaohua Fan
- School of Life Sciences, Jiangsu Normal University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China.
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Zhang N, Han Z, Zhang R, Liu L, Gao Y, Li J, Yan M. Ganoderma lucidum Polysaccharides Ameliorate Acetaminophen-Induced Acute Liver Injury by Inhibiting Oxidative Stress and Apoptosis along the Nrf2 Pathway. Nutrients 2024; 16:1859. [PMID: 38931214 PMCID: PMC11206445 DOI: 10.3390/nu16121859] [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: 05/16/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The excessive employment of acetaminophen (APAP) is capable of generating oxidative stress and apoptosis, which ultimately result in acute liver injury (ALI). Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharides (GLPs) exhibit hepatoprotective activity, yet the protective impact and potential mechanism of GLPs in relation to APAP-induced ALI remain ambiguous. The intention of this research was to scrutinize the effect of GLPs on APAP-induced ALI and to shed light on their potential mechanism. The results demonstrated that GLPs were capable of notably alleviating the oxidative stress triggered by APAP, as shown through a significant drop in the liver index, the activities of serum ALT and AST, and the amounts of ROS and MDA in liver tissue, along with an increase in the levels of SOD, GSH, and GSH-Px. Within these, the hepatoprotective activity at the high dose was the most conspicuous, and its therapeutic efficacy surpassed that of the positive drug (bifendate). The results of histopathological staining (HE) and apoptosis staining (TUNEL) indicated that GLPs could remarkably inhibit the necrosis of hepatocytes, the permeation of inflammatory cells, and the occurrence of apoptosis induced by APAP. Moreover, Western blot analysis manifested that GLPs enhanced the manifestation of Nrf2 and its subsequent HO-1, GCLC, and NQO1 proteins within the Nrf2 pathway. The results of qPCR also indicated that GLPs augmented the expression of antioxidant genes Nrf2, HO-1, GCLC, and NQO1. The results reveal that GLPs are able to set off the Nrf2 signaling path and attenuate ALI-related oxidative stress and apoptosis, which is a potential natural medicine for the therapy of APAP-induced liver injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Zhang
- Institute of Special Animal and Plant Sciences of Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun 130112, China; (N.Z.); (L.L.); (Y.G.); (J.L.)
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicinal Materials, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China; (Z.H.); (R.Z.)
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicinal Materials Cultivation and Propagation, Changchun 130112, China
| | - Zhongming Han
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicinal Materials, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China; (Z.H.); (R.Z.)
| | - Rui Zhang
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicinal Materials, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China; (Z.H.); (R.Z.)
| | - Linling Liu
- Institute of Special Animal and Plant Sciences of Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun 130112, China; (N.Z.); (L.L.); (Y.G.); (J.L.)
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicinal Materials Cultivation and Propagation, Changchun 130112, China
| | - Yanliang Gao
- Institute of Special Animal and Plant Sciences of Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun 130112, China; (N.Z.); (L.L.); (Y.G.); (J.L.)
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicinal Materials Cultivation and Propagation, Changchun 130112, China
| | - Jintao Li
- Institute of Special Animal and Plant Sciences of Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun 130112, China; (N.Z.); (L.L.); (Y.G.); (J.L.)
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicinal Materials Cultivation and Propagation, Changchun 130112, China
| | - Meixia Yan
- Institute of Special Animal and Plant Sciences of Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun 130112, China; (N.Z.); (L.L.); (Y.G.); (J.L.)
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicinal Materials Cultivation and Propagation, Changchun 130112, China
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Xiong L, Lin K, He T, Liu X, Yuan R, Li X, Zhang J. A novel approach combining network pharmacology and experimental validation to study the protective effect of ginsenoside Rb1 against cantharidin-induced hepatotoxicity in mice. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol 2024; 134:737-749. [PMID: 38477401 DOI: 10.1111/bcpt.13999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/17/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
Cantharidin (CTD) is a widely used anticancer compound, but its clinical use is mainly limited due to hepatotoxicity. Ginsenoside Rb1 (GRb1) shows potential hepatoprotective effects. Nonetheless, the protective effect and underlying mechanism of GRb1 against CTD-induced hepatotoxicity in mice have not been investigated. This study aims to elucidate the effect and mechanism of GRb1 on CTD-induced hepatotoxicity using network pharmacology and in vivo experiments. Network pharmacology studies have shown that 263 targets were the main mechanisms by which GRb1 alleviates CTD-induced hepatotoxicity. KEGG enrichment analysis revealed that 75 hub genes were mainly enriched in TNF, IL-17 and apoptosis signalling pathways. Molecular docking analysis showed that GRb1 exhibited high affinity with Akt1, Tnf, Il6, Bcl2 and Caspase3. In addition, results from animal studies demonstrated that GRb1 could ameliorate CTD-induced hepatotoxicity by inhibiting protein expression of Caspase-3, Caspase-8, Bcl-2/Bax, GRP78, ATF6, ATF4, CHOP, IRE1α and PERK. This research revealed the mechanism of GRb1 against CTD-induced hepatotoxicity by inhibiting apoptosis and endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) and it may provide a scientific rationale for the potential use of GRb1 in the treatment of hepatotoxicity induced by CTD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijuan Xiong
- School of Pharmacy and Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology Ministry Education, Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Kexin Lin
- School of Basic Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Tianmu He
- School of Basic Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Xingyan Liu
- School of Pharmacy and Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology Ministry Education, Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Rui Yuan
- School of Pharmacy and Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology Ministry Education, Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Xiaofei Li
- School of Basic Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Jianyong Zhang
- School of Pharmacy and Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology Ministry Education, Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
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He J, Chen L, Wang P, Cen B, Li J, Wei Y, Yao X, Xu Z. Network pharmacology and experimental validation of effects of total saponins extracted from Abrus cantoniensis Hance on acetaminophen-induced liver injury. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 324:117740. [PMID: 38219885 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.117740] [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: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 01/07/2024] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Abrus cantoniensis Hance (AC), an abrus cantoniensis herb, is a Chinese medicinal herb used for the treatment of hepatitis. Total saponins extracted from AC (ACS) are a compound of triterpenoid saponins, which have protective properties against both chemical and immunological liver injuries. Nevertheless, ACS has not been proven to have an influence on drug-induced liver injury (DILI). AIM OF THE STUDY This study used network pharmacology and experiments to investigate the effects of ACS on acetaminophen (APAP)-induced liver injury. MATERIALS AND METHODS The targets associated with ACS and DILI were obtained from online databases. Cytoscape software was utilized to construct a "compound-target" network. In addition, Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses were used to analyze the related signaling pathways impacted by ACS. AutoDock Vina was utilized to evaluate the binding affinity between bioactive compounds and the key targets. To validate the findings of network pharmacology, in vitro and in vivo experiments were conducted. Cell viability assay, transaminase activity detection, immunofluorescence assay, immunohistochemistry staining, RT-qPCR, and western blotting were utilized to explore the effects of ACS. RESULTS 25 active compounds and 217 targets of ACS were screened, of which 94 common targets were considered as potential targets for ACS treating APAP-induced liver injury. GO and KEGG analyses showed that the effects of ACS exert their effects on liver injury through suppressing inflammatory response, oxidative stress, and apoptosis. Molecular docking results demonstrated that core active compounds of ACS were successfully docked to core targets such as CASP3, BCL2L1, MAPK8, MAPK14, PTGS2, and NOS2. In vitro experiments showed that ACS effectively attenuated APAP-induced damage through suppressing transaminase activity and attenuating apoptosis. Furthermore, in vivo studies demonstrated that ACS alleviated pathological changes in APAP-treated mice and attenuated inflammatory response. Additionally, ACS downregulated the expression of iNOS, COX2, and Caspase-3, and upregulated the expression of Bcl-2. ACS also suppressed the MAPK signaling pathway. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrated that ACS is a hepatoprotective drug through the combination of network pharmacology and in vitro and in vivo experiments. The findings reveal that ACS effectively attenuate APAP-induced oxidative stress, apoptosis, and inflammation through inhibiting the MAPK signaling pathway. Consequently, this research offers novel evidence supporting the potential preventive efficacy of ACS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiali He
- Clinical Pharmacy Center, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China; National Medical Products Administration Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Drug Metabolism & Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Leping Chen
- Clinical Pharmacy Center, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China; Department of Pharmacy, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Ping Wang
- Clinical Pharmacy Center, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China; National Medical Products Administration Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Drug Metabolism & Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Bohong Cen
- Clinical Pharmacy Center, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China; National Medical Products Administration Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Drug Metabolism & Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Jinxia Li
- Clinical Pharmacy Center, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China; National Medical Products Administration Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Drug Metabolism & Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Yerong Wei
- Clinical Pharmacy Center, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China; National Medical Products Administration Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Drug Metabolism & Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Xiangcao Yao
- Clinical Pharmacy Center, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China; National Medical Products Administration Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Drug Metabolism & Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China.
| | - Zhongyuan Xu
- Clinical Pharmacy Center, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China; National Medical Products Administration Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Drug Metabolism & Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China.
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Ge B, Yan K, Sang R, Wang W, Liu X, Yu M, Liu X, Qiu Q, Zhang X. Integrated network toxicology, molecular docking, and in vivo experiments to elucidate molecular mechanism of aflatoxin B1 hepatotoxicity. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 275:116278. [PMID: 38564860 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116278] [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: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Due to the rise in temperature and sea level caused by climate change, the detection rate of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) in food crops has increased dramatically, and the frequency and severity of aflatoxicosis in humans and animals are also increasing. AFB1 has strong hepatotoxicity, causing severe liver damage and even cancer. However, the mechanism of AFB1 hepatotoxicity remains unclear. By integrating network toxicology, molecular docking and in vivo experiments, this research was designed to explore the potential hepatotoxicity mechanisms of AFB1. Thirty-three intersection targets for AFB1-induced liver damage were identified using online databases. PI3K/AKT1, MAPK, FOXO1 signaling pathways, and apoptosis were significantly enriched. In addition, the proteins of ALB, AKT1, PIK3CG, MAPK8, HSP90AA1, PPARA, MAPK1, EGFR, FOXO1, and IGF1 exhibited good affinity with AFB1. In vivo experiments, significant pathological changes occurred in the liver of mice. AFB1 induction increased the expression levels of EGFR, ERK, and FOXO1, and decreased the expression levsls of PI3K and AKT1. Moreover, AFB1 treatment caused an increase in Caspase3 expression, and a decrease in Bcl2/Bax ratio. By combining network toxicology with in vivo experiments, this study confirms for the first time that AFB1 promotes the FOXO1 signaling pathway by inactivating PI3K/AKT1 and activating EGFR/ERK signaling pathways, hence aggravating hepatocyte apoptosis. This research provides new strategies for studying the toxicity of environmental pollutants and new possible targets for the development of hepatoprotective drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingjie Ge
- Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines of Changbai Mountain, Ministry of Education, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Gongyuan Street, Yanji, Jilin 133002, PR China
| | - Kexin Yan
- Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines of Changbai Mountain, Ministry of Education, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Gongyuan Street, Yanji, Jilin 133002, PR China
| | - Rui Sang
- Agricultural College of Yanbian University, Gongyuan Street, Yanji, Jilin 133002, PR China
| | - Wei Wang
- Agricultural College of Yanbian University, Gongyuan Street, Yanji, Jilin 133002, PR China
| | - Xinman Liu
- Agricultural College of Yanbian University, Gongyuan Street, Yanji, Jilin 133002, PR China
| | - Minghong Yu
- Agricultural College of Yanbian University, Gongyuan Street, Yanji, Jilin 133002, PR China
| | - Xiaotong Liu
- Agricultural College of Yanbian University, Gongyuan Street, Yanji, Jilin 133002, PR China
| | - Qian Qiu
- Agricultural College of Yanbian University, Gongyuan Street, Yanji, Jilin 133002, PR China
| | - Xuemei Zhang
- Agricultural College of Yanbian University, Gongyuan Street, Yanji, Jilin 133002, PR China.
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Dong Z, Liu Z, Xu Y, Tan B, Sun W, Ai Q, Yang Z, Zeng J. Potential for the development of Taraxacum mongolicum aqueous extract as a phytogenic feed additive for poultry. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1354040. [PMID: 38529273 PMCID: PMC10961442 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1354040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Taraxacum mongolicum (TM) is a kind of medicinal and edible homologous plant which is included in the catalogue of feed raw materials in China. It is rich in polyphenols, flavonoids, polysaccharides and other active substances, and shows many benefits to livestock, poultry and aquatic products. The study aimed to assess the potential of TM aqueous extract (TMAE) as a substitute for poultry AGPs. Methods A total of 240 one-day-old Arbor Acker broilers were randomly assigned to four groups and fed a basal diet (Con) supplemented with 500, 1000, and 2000 mg/kg TMAE (Low, Medium, and High groups). The growth performance of the broilers was measured on day 21 and day 42. At the end of the trial, the researchers measured slaughter performance and collected serum, liver, spleen, ileum, and intestinal contents to investigate the effects of TMAE on serum biochemistry, antioxidant capacity, immune function, organ coefficient, intestinal morphology, flora composition, and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). Results The results showed that broilers treated with TMAE had a significantly higher average daily gain from 22 to 42 days old compared to the Con group. Various doses of TMAE resulted in different levels of improvement in serum chemistry. High doses increased serum alkaline phosphatase and decreased creatinine. TMAE also increased the antioxidant capacity of serum, liver, and ileum in broilers. Additionally, middle and high doses of TMAE enhanced the innate immune function of the liver (IL-10) and ileum (Occludin) in broilers. Compared to the control group, the TMAE treatment group exhibited an increase in the ratio of villi length to villi crypt in the duodenum. TMAE increased the abundance of beneficial bacteria, such as Alistipes and Lactobacillus, while reducing the accumulation of harmful bacteria, such as Colidextracter and Sellimonas. The cecum's SCFAs content increased with a medium dose of TMAE. Supplementing broiler diets with TMAE at varying doses enhanced growth performance and overall health. The most significant benefits were observed at a dose of 1000 mg/kg, including improved serum biochemical parameters, intestinal morphology, antioxidant capacity of the liver and ileum, immune function of the liver and ileum, and increased SCFAs content. Lactobacillus aviarius, norank_f_norank_o__Clostridia_UCG-014, and Flavonifractor are potentially dominant members of the intestinal microflora. Conclusion In conclusion, TMAE is a promising poultry feed additive and 1000 mg/kg is an effective reference dose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Dong
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Province Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China
| | - Zhiqin Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Province Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China
| | - Yufeng Xu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Province Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China
| | - Bin Tan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Province Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China
| | - Wenqing Sun
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Province Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China
| | - Qin Ai
- DHN Business Division, Wens Foodstuff Group Co., Ltd., Zhaoqing, China
| | - Zihui Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Province Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China
| | - Jianguo Zeng
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Province Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China
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Wang Q, Zhang R, He Y, Mao G, Kong Z. Taraxasterol enhanced bladder cancer cells radiosensitivity via inhibiting the COX-2/PGE2/JAK2/STAT3/MMP pathway. Int J Radiat Biol 2024; 100:791-801. [PMID: 38442139 DOI: 10.1080/09553002.2024.2324475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Radiotherapy with bladder preservation is highly acceptable among patients bearing bladder cancer (BCa), but the occurrence of secondary tolerance (ARR) during treatment is one of the important reasons for the failure of clinical radiotherapy. COX-2 has been frequently reported to be highly expressed and associated with radio-resistance in various cancers. In this study, the feasibility of Taraxasterol (Tara) as a radiosensitizer was investigated, and the target effect of Tara on COX-2 and its underlying mechanism were explored. METHODS AND MATERIALS The toxicity of Tara toward BCa cells was detected with the MTT method and cells in response to IR or Tara + IR were compared by clone formation assay. Next, a small RNA interference system (siRNA) was employed to decrease endogenous COX-2 expression in BCa cells, and the stem cell-like features and motion abilities of BCa cells under different treatments were investigated using microsphere formation and transwell chamber assay, respectively. Meanwhile, the expression of a series of inflammation-related molecules and stem cell characteristic molecules was determined by qRT-PCR, western blot and ELISA method. In vivo studies, BCa cells were subcutaneously injected into the right flank of each male mouse. Those mice were then grouped and exposed to different treatment: Tara, IR, IR + Tara and untreated control. The volumes of each tumor were measured every two days and target proteins were detected with immunohistochemical (IHC) staining. RESULTS The results show that COX-2 decline, due to COX-2 knocking-down or Tara treatment, could greatly enhance BCa cells' radiosensitivity and significantly decrease their migration, invasion and microsphere formation abilities, companied with the reduce of JAK2, phos-STAT3, MMP2 and MMP9 expression. However, Tara could not further reduce the expression of an above molecule of cells in COX-2-deficient BCa cells. Correspondingly, Tara treatment could not further enhance those siCOX-2 BCa cells response to IR. CONCLUSIONS Our data support that Tara can improve the radiosensitivity of BCa cells by targeting COX-2/PGE2. The mechanism may involve regulating STAT3 phosphorylation, DNA damage response protein activation, and expression of MMP2/MMP9.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quanxin Wang
- Department of Radiobiology, Institute of Radiation Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ruiqi Zhang
- Department of Radiobiology, Institute of Radiation Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yijun He
- Department of Radiobiology, Institute of Radiation Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Guangmin Mao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Longhua Hospital Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhaolu Kong
- Department of Radiobiology, Institute of Radiation Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Zhang Y, BinShaari R, Nawi MABA, Bin Hassan A, Cui C. Pharmacological Action and Research Progress of Taraxasterol. Curr Pharm Biotechnol 2024; 25:1767-1777. [PMID: 38178677 DOI: 10.2174/0113892010276692231220103636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
Primarily sourced from Asteraceae family herbs such as the Dandelion, Taraxasterol is a pentacyclic triterpenoid lauded for its extensive biological functionalities. Its therapeutic potency is demonstrated in various disease models, encompassing enteritis, arthritis, acute hepatic injury, and pneumonia. Scientific literature underscores its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antineoplastic attributes. The primary aim of this study is to thoroughly explore the diseasemodulating mechanisms and effects of taraxasterol. We endeavor to provide an exhaustive review of the experimental subjects, intervention components, distinct action modalities, contributing factors, and protein pathway expressions associated with taraxasterol, systematically represented via diagrams and tables. Such a schematic representation encourages a continued academic dialogue concerning taraxasterol's pharmacological characteristics. This review is envisioned as a practical guide for the selection of experimental subjects and methodologies in prospective research. It is intended to further illuminate taraxasterol's pharmacodynamics, thereby offering theoretical and empirical justification for its clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhang
- School of dental sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Health Campus, Kelantan, Malaysia
- Qilu Medical University, Zibo, China
| | - Ramizu BinShaari
- School of Dental Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Health Campus, Kelantan, Malaysia
| | | | - Akram Bin Hassan
- School of dental sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Health Campus, Kelantan, Malaysia
| | - Caiyun Cui
- Department of Stomatology, Affiliated Hospital of Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou, China
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