Panax notoginseng and its components decreased hypertension via stimulation of endothelial-dependent vessel dilatation

Triterpenoid saponins from the roots of Panax notoginseng with protective effects against APAP-induced liver injury

Five previously undescribed protopanaxatriol-type saponins, notoginsenosides Ta-Te (1-5), together with eighteen known triterpenoid saponins (6-23) were isolated from the roots of Panax notoginseng. The structures of new compounds were determined by HRESIMS and NMR spectroscopic analyses and chemical methods. Compounds 1 and 2 were the first examples of ginsenosides featuring a 6-deoxy-β-d-glucose moiety from Panax species. Compounds 1-4, 7, 10, 12, 21-22 showed protective effects on L02 cells against the injury of acetaminophen (APAP). Among them, notoginsenoside R1 (12), ginsenoside Rg1 (21), and ginsenoside Re (22) were the most potent ones, with cell viabilities >80%. Moreover, compounds 12 and 22 remarkably alleviated APAP-induced liver injury in mice. These saponins are potential hepatoprotective agents.

Transcriptomics and metabolomics revealed the molecular basis of the color formation in the roots of Panax notoginseng

Panax notoginseng is a traditional Chinese medicine rich in many pharmacological components. The root of the 'Miaoxiang Sanqi No. 2' is yellow or greenish yellow, while a novel cultivar-'Wenyuan Ziqi No. 1' shows purple root and is thought to have high medicinal value. Little information is available about the anthocyanin biosynthesis in P. notoginseng root. In this study, we compared the 'Miaoxiang Sanqi No. 2' and 'Wenyuan Ziqi No. 1' in morphological, transcriptional and metabolic levels. The results showed that purple rich in the periderm, rhizome and phloem around cambium of the 'Wenyuan Ziqi No. 1' root and cyanidin 3-O-galactoside was the main anthocyanin causing purple. Moreover, 'Wenyuan Ziqi No. 1' highly accumulated in 155 metabolites, including flavones, phenylpropanoids and lipids. Transcriptome data showed that phenylpropanoid biosynthesis pathway genes are highly expressed in 'Wenyuan Ziqi No. 1'. Conjoint analysis showed that anthocyanin biosynthesis pathway substances were highly accumulated in 'Wenyuan Ziqi No. 1', and the expression level of structural genes involved in anthocyanin biosynthesis pathway was higher in 'Wenyuan Ziqi No. 1'. Meanwhile, eight R2R3-MYB genes that might be involved in anthocyanin biosynthesis were identified. The comprehensive analysis of two cultivars provides new insights into the understanding of root coloration in P. notoginseng.

Comparison of the components of fresh Panax notoginseng processed by different methods and their anti-anemia effects on cyclophosphamide-treated mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The traditional Chinese herb Panax notoginseng (PN) tonifies blood, and its main active ingredient is saponin. PN is processed by different methods, resulting in different compositions and effects.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To investigate changes in the microstructure and composition of fresh PN processed by different techniques and the anti-anemia effects on tumor-bearing BALB/c mice after chemotherapy with cyclophosphamide (CTX).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fresh PN was processed by hot-air drying (raw PN, RPN), steamed at 120 °C for 5 h (steamed PN, SPN), or fried at 130 °C, 160 °C, or 200 °C for 8 min (fried PN, FPN1, FPN2, or FPN3, respectively); then, the microstructures were compared with 3D optical microscopy, quasi-targeted metabolites were detected by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC‒MS/MS), and saponins were detected by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). An anemic mouse model was established by subcutaneous H22 cell injection and treatment with CTX. The antianemia effects of PN after processing via three methods were investigated by measuring peripheral blood parameters, performing HE staining and measuring cell proliferation via immunofluorescence.

RESULTS

3D optical profiling revealed that the surface roughness of the SPN and FPN was greater than that of the other materials. Quasi-targeted metabolomics revealed that SPN and FPN had more differentially abundant metabolites whose abundance increased, while SPN had greater amounts of terpenoids and flavones. Analysis of the composition and content of the targeted saponins revealed that the contents of rare saponins (ginsenoside Rh1, 20(S)-Rg3, 20(R)-Rg3, Rh4, Rk3, Rg5) were greater in the SPN. In animal experiments, the RBC, WBC, HGB and HCT levels in peripheral blood were increased by SPN and FPN. HE staining and immunofluorescence showed that H-SPN and M-FPN promoted bone marrow and spleen cell proliferation.

CONCLUSION

The microstructure and components of fresh PN differed after processing via different methods. SPN and FPN ameliorated CTX-induced anemia in mice, but the effects of PN processed by these two methods did not differ.

Panax notoginseng: panoramagram of phytochemical and pharmacological properties, biosynthesis, and regulation and production of ginsenosides

Panax notoginseng is a famous perennial herb widely used as material for medicine and health-care food. Due to its various therapeutic effects, research work on P. notoginseng has rapidly increased in recent years, urging a comprehensive review of research progress on this important medicinal plant. Here, we summarize the latest studies on the representative bioactive constituents of P. notoginseng and their multiple pharmacological effects, like cardiovascular protection, anti-tumor, and immunomodulatory activities. More importantly, we emphasize the biosynthesis and regulation of ginsenosides, which are the main bioactive ingredients of P. notoginseng. Key enzymes and transcription factors (TFs) involved in the biosynthesis of ginsenosides are reviewed, including diverse CYP450s, UGTs, bHLH, and ERF TFs. We also construct a transcriptional regulatory network based on multi-omics data and predicted candidate TFs mediating the biosynthesis of ginsenosides. Finally, the current three major biotechnological approaches for ginsenoside production are highlighted. This review covers advances in the past decades, providing insights into quality evaluation and perspectives for the rational utilization and development of P. notoginseng resources. Modern omics technologies facilitate the exploration of the molecular mechanisms of ginsenoside biosynthesis, which is crucial to the breeding of novel P. notoginseng varieties. The identification of functional enzymes for biosynthesizing ginsenosides will lead to the formulation of potential strategies for the efficient and large-scale production of specific ginsenosides.

Research advances in the therapy of metabolic syndrome

Metabolic syndrome refers to the pathological state of metabolic disorder of protein, fat, carbohydrate, and other substances in the human body. It is a syndrome composed of a group of complex metabolic disorders, whose pathogenesis includes multiple genetic and acquired entities falling under the category of insulin resistance and chronic low-grade inflammationand. It is a risk factor for increased prevalence and mortality from diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Cardiovascular diseases are the predominant cause of morbidity and mortality globally, thus it is imperative to investigate the impact of metabolic syndrome on alleviating this substantial disease burden. Despite the increasing number of scientists dedicating themselves to researching metabolic syndrome in recent decades, numerous aspects of this condition remain incompletely understood, leaving many questions unanswered. In this review, we present an epidemiological analysis of MetS, explore both traditional and novel pathogenesis, examine the pathophysiological repercussions of metabolic syndrome, summarize research advances, and elucidate the mechanisms underlying corresponding treatment approaches.

Effect of adjuvant therapy with compound danshen drip pill on inflammatory factors and cardiac function after percutaneous coronary intervention for acute myocardial infarction: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Objectives: The purpose of the study was to comprehensively evaluate efficacy and safety of CDDP in patients with AMI undergoing PCI. Methods: A computerised search was conducted on the CNKI, WF, VIP, CBM, PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases for RCTs of CDDP adjuvant therapy for AMI up to May 2023. STATA 17.0 was used to perform meta-analyses, sensitivity analyses, subgroup analyses, meta-regression, and publication bias assessments. TSA 0.9.5.10 Beta was used for trial sequential analysis (TSA). Evidence confidence of meta results was evaluated by GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation) according to the instructions. Results: The results of the meta-analysis showed that CDDP combined with conventional western treatment (CWT) was superior to CWT in increasing LVEF and TCER and decreasing LVEDD, hs-CRP, IL-6 and TNF-α. The quality of evidence for TCER was moderate, LVEF, LVEDD, IL-6, and TNF-α were low. The TSA results showed that the total number of samples collected in this study met the requirements for meta-analysis and excluded the possibility of false positives, further confirming the efficacy of CDDP for the treatment of AMI undergoing PCI. Conclusion: Adjuvant treatment of AMI with CDDP has shown exciting and safe benefits in improving cardiac function and reducing inflammatory response in patients with AMI undergoing PCI, but the quality of some of the included studies was poor, and the results should be interpreted with caution until further confirmation by well-designed RCTs. Systematic Review Registration: [https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/#recordDetails], identifier [CRD42023453293].

PnNAC2 promotes the biosynthesis of Panax notoginseng saponins and induces early flowering

KEY MESSAGE

PnNAC2 positively regulates saponin biosynthesis by binding the promoters of key biosynthetic genes, including PnSS, PnSE, and PnDS. PnNAC2 accelerates flowering through directly associating with the promoters of FT genes. NAC transcription factors play an important regulatory role in both terpenoid biosynthesis and flowering. Saponins with multiple pharmacological activities are recognized as the major active components of Panax notoginseng. The P. notoginseng flower is crucial for growth and used for medicinal and food purposes. However, the precise function of the P. notoginseng NAC transcription factor in the regulation of saponin biosynthesis and flowering remains largely unknown. Here, we conducted a comprehensive characterization of a specific NAC transcription factor, designated as PnNAC2, from P. notoginseng. PnNAC2 was identified as a nuclear-localized protein with transcription activator activity. The expression profile of PnNAC2 across various tissues mirrored the accumulation pattern of total saponins. Knockdown experiments of PnNAC2 in P. notoginseng calli revealed a significant reduction in saponin content and the expression level of pivotal saponin biosynthetic genes, including PnSS, PnSE, and PnDS. Subsequently, Y1H assays, dual-LUC assays, and electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSAs) demonstrated that PnNAC2 exhibits binding affinity to the promoters of PnSS, PnSE and PnDS, thereby activating their transcription. Additionally, an overexpression assay of PnNAC2 in Arabidopsis thaliana witnessed the acceleration of flowering and the induction of the FLOWERING LOCUS T (FT) gene expression. Furthermore, PnNAC2 demonstrated the ability to bind to the promoters of AtFT and PnFT genes, further activating their transcription. In summary, these results revealed that PnNAC2 acts as a multifunctional regulator, intricately involved in the modulation of triterpenoid saponin biosynthesis and flowering processes.

Ginsenoside Rg1, lights up the way for the potential prevention of Alzheimer's disease due to its therapeutic effects on the drug-controllable risk factors of Alzheimer's disease

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

In traditional Chinese medicine, Shen Nong, BenCao Jing, and Compendium of Materia Medica (Bencao Gangmu), Panax ginseng, and its prescriptions have been used for the treatment of dementia, depression, weight loss, Xiaoke disease (similar to diabetes), and vertigo. All these diseases are associated with the drug-controllable risk factors for Alzheimer's disease (AD), including depression, obesity, diabetes, and hypertension. Ginsenoside Rg1, one of the main active ingredients of P. ginseng and its congener Panax notoginseng, possesses therapeutic potentials against AD and associated diseases. This suggests that ginsenoside Rg1 might have the potential for AD prevention and treatment. Although the anti-AD effects of ginsenoside Rg1 have received more attention, a systematic review of its effects on depression, obesity, diabetes, and hypertension is not available.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

This systematic literature review comprehensively summarized existing literature on the therapeutic potentials of ginsenoside Rg1 in AD prevention for the propose of providing a foundation of future research aimed at enabling the use of such drugs in clinical practice.

METHODS

Information on ginsenoside Rg1 was collected from relevant published articles identified through a literature search in electronic scientific databases (PubMed, Science Direct, and Google Scholar). The keywords used were "Ginsenoside Rg1," "Panax ginseng," "Source," "Alzheimer's disease," "Brain disorders," "Depression," "Obesity," "Diabetes," and "Hypertension."

RESULTS

The monomer ginsenoside Rg1 can be relatively easily obtained and has therapeutic potentials against AD. In vitro and in vivo experiments have demonstrated the therapeutic potentials of ginsenoside Rg1 against the drug-controllable risk factors of AD including depression, obesity, diabetes, and hypertension. Thus, ginsenoside Rg1 alleviates diseases resulting from AD risk factors by regulating multiple targets and pathways.

CONCLUSIONS

Ginsenoside Rg1 has the potentials to prevent AD by alleviating depression, obesity, diabetes, and hypertension.

Panax notoginseng saponin alleviates pulmonary fibrosis in rats by modulating the renin-angiotensin system

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is a chronic, progressive, and often fatal interstitial lung disease. Traditional Chinese medicine formulations and their active ingredients have shown potential in the treatment of PF. Panax notoginseng saponin (PNS) is extracted from the widely used traditional Chinese medicinal herb Panax notoginseng (Burkill) F. H. Chen, exhibiting therapeutic effects in pulmonary diseases treatment.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to investigate the effects and elucidate possible potential mechanisms of PNS on bleomycin (BLM)-induced PF in rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

PF was induced in rats by intratracheal administration of bleomycin (BLM, 5 mg/kg). After disease model induction, the rats were treated with PNS (50, 100, or 200 mg/kg per day) or pirfenidone (PFD, 50 mg/kg per day) for 28 days. Lung function, histopathological changes, collagen deposition, and E- and N-cadherin levels in lung tissue were evaluated. The mechanism of action of PNS was investigated using tandem mass tag-based quantitative proteomics analysis. Immunohistochemistry, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and Western blot analysis were performed to verify the proteomic results.

RESULTS

PNS treatment improved lung function, ameliorated the BLM-induced increase in the lung coefficient, attenuated the degree of alveolar inflammation and fibrosis, and reduced the elevated collagen level in PF rats. PNS treatment also down-regulated the expression of N-cadherin while up-regulating the expression of E-cadherin. Proteomic and bioinformatic analyses revealed that the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) was closely related to the therapeutic effect of PNS. Immunohistochemistry, Western blot, and ELISA results indicated that PNS exerted its anti-fibrotic effect via regulation of the balance between the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE)-angiotensin (Ang)II-AngII receptor type 1 (AT1R) and ACE2-Ang(1-7)-MasR axes.

CONCLUSIONS

PNS ameliorates BLM-induced PF in rats by modulating the RAS homeostasis, and is a new potential therapeutic agent for PF.

Elucidation of the Molecular Mechanism of Compound Danshen Dripping Pills against Angina Pectoris based on Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking

BACKGROUND

Compound Danshen dripping pills (CDDP), a traditional Chinese medicine, has had an extensive application in the treatment of angina pectoris (AP) in China. However, research on the bioactive ingredients and underlying mechanisms of CDDP in AP remains unclear.

OBJECTIVE

In the present study, we explored the major chemical components and potential molecular mechanisms linked to the anti-angina effects of CDDP through the application of network pharmacology and molecular docking.

METHODS

The potential targets of active ingredients in CDDP were sourced from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database (TCMSP) and the Swiss Target Prediction Database (STPD). Additionally, targets related to angina pectoris (AP) were retrieved from various databases, including Gene Cards, DisGeNET, Dis Genet, the Drug Bank database (DBD), and the Therapeutic Target Database (TDD). Protein- protein interaction networks were also established, and core targets were identified based on their topological significance. GO enrichment analysis and KEGG pathway analysis were conducted using the R software. Interactions between active ingredients and potential targets selected through the above process were investigated through molecular docking.

RESULTS

Seventy-six active ingredients were selected with the following criteria: OB ≥ 30%, DL ≥ 0.18. 383 targets of CDDP and 1488 targets on AP were gathered, respectively. Afterwards, 194 common targets of CDDP and anti-AP targets were defined, of which 12 were core targets. GO enrichment analysis indicated that CDDP acted on AP by response to lipopolysaccharide, regulating the reactive oxygen species and metal ion metabolism, and epithelial cell proliferation. In addition, KEGG enrichment analysis indicated that the signaling pathways were notably enriched in lipid and atherosclerosis, fluid shear stress and atherosclerosis, IL-17 signaling pathway, EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance, PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, and TNF signaling pathway. Moreover, the molecular docking manifested excellent binding capacity between the active ingredients and targets on AP.

CONCLUSION

This study comprehensively illustrated the bioactive, potential targets, and molecular mechanisms of CDDP against AP, offering fresh perspectives into the molecular mechanisms of CDDP in preventing and treating AP.

Mechanism of Qingchang Suppository on repairing the intestinal mucosal barrier in ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a refractory inflammatory bowel disease, and the outcomes of conventional therapies of UC, including 5-aminosalicylic acid, glucocorticoids, immunosuppressants, and biological agents, are not satisfied with patients and physicians with regard to adverse reactions and financial burden. The abnormality of the intestinal mucosal barrier in the pathogenesis of UC was verified. Qingchang Suppository (QCS) is an herbal preparation and is effective in treating ulcerative proctitis. The mechanism of QCS and its active ingredients have not been concluded especially in mucosal healing. This review elucidated the potential mechanism of QCS from the intestinal mucosal barrier perspective to help exploring future QCS research directions.

Ginsenoside Rg1 ameliorates hypoxia-induced pulmonary arterial hypertension by inhibiting endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition and inflammation by regulating CCN1

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a chronic obstructive disease characterized by vascular remodeling. Studies have confirmed that ginsenoside Rg1 can improve pulmonary hypertension to a certain extent, but the potential mechanism by which it improves hypoxia-induced PAH remains unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the therapeutic effect of ginsenoside Rg1 on hypoxia-induced PAH. The results showed that hypoxia promoted inflammation, EndMT, and vascular remodeling, which were accompanied by decreased CCN1 levels and increased p-NFκB p65, TGF-β1, and p-Smad 2/3 levels. Treatment with ginsenoside Rg1, recombinant CCN1, BAY-11-7082, and SB-431542 could prevent hypoxia-induced vascular remodeling, reduce the expression of the hypoxia-induced inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-1β, inhibit the expression of the mesenchymal markers α-SMA and Vimentin and restore the expression of the endothelial markers CD31 and VE-cadherin to improve hypoxia-induced EndMT, which may be associated with the upregulation of CCN1 protein expression and downregulation of p-NFκB p65, TGF-β1, and p-Smad 2/3 in rats and cells. siRNA CCN1 transfection increased the expression of p-NFκB p65, TGF-β1, and p-Smad 2/3 and accelerated the occurrence and development of inflammation and EndMT after hypoxia. In summary, our study indicated that hypoxia-induced EndMT and inflammation play a role in hypoxic pulmonary hypertension (HPH). Ginsenoside Rg1 treatment could reverse hypoxia-induced EndMT and inflammation by regulating CCN1 and has potential value in the prevention and treatment of HPH.

Herb-drug interactions between Panax notoginseng or its biologically active compounds and therapeutic drugs: A comprehensive pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic review

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Herbs, along with the use of herb-drug interactions (HDIs) to combat diseases, are increasing in popularity worldwide. HDIs have two effects: favorable interactions that tend to improve therapeutic outcomes and/or minimize the toxic effects of drugs, and unfavorable interactions aggravating the condition of patients. Panax notoginseng (Burk.) F.H. Chen is a medicinal plant that has long been commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine to reduce swelling, relieve pain, clear blood stasis, and stop bleeding. Numerous studies have demonstrated the existence of intricate pharmacodynamic (PD) and pharmacokinetic (PK) interactions between P. notoginseng and conventional drugs. However, these HDIs have not been systematically summarized.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

To collect the available literature on the combined applications of P. notoginseng and drugs published from 2005 to 2022 and summarize the molecular mechanisms of interactions to circumvent the potential risks of combination therapy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This work was conducted by searching PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and CNKI databases. The search terms included "notoginseng", "Sanqi", "drug interaction," "synergy/synergistic", "combination/combine", "enzyme", "CYP", and "transporter".

RESULTS

P. notoginseng and its bioactive ingredients interact synergistically with numerous drugs, including anticancer, antiplatelet, and antimicrobial agents, to surmount drug resistance and side effects. This review elaborates on the molecular mechanisms of the PD processed involved. P. notoginseng shapes the PK processes of the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of other drugs by regulating metabolic enzymes and transporters, mainly cytochrome P450 enzymes and P-glycoprotein. This effect is a red flag for drugs with a narrow therapeutic window. Notably, amphipathic saponins in P. notoginseng act as auxiliary materials in drug delivery systems to enhance drug solubility and absorption and represent a new entry point for studying interactions.

CONCLUSION

This article provides a comprehensive overview of HDIs by analyzing the results of the in vivo and in vitro studies on P. notoginseng and its bioactive components. The knowledge presented here offers a scientific guideline for investigating the clinical importance of combination therapies. Physicians and patients need information on possible interactions between P. notoginseng and other drugs, and this review can help them make scientific predictions regarding the consequences of combination treatments.

Pharmacological properties and mechanisms of Notoginsenoside R1 in ischemia-reperfusion injury

Panax notoginseng is an ancient Chinese medicinal plant that has great clinical value in regulating cardiovascular disease in China. As a single component of panax notoginosides, notoginsenoside R1 (NGR1) belongs to the panaxatriol group. Many reports have demonstrated that NGR1 exerts multiple pharmacological effects in ischemic stroke, myocardial infarction, acute renal injury, and intestinal injury. Here, we outline the available reports on the pharmacological effects of NGR1 in ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury. We also discuss the chemistry, composition and molecular mechanism underlying the anti-I/R injury effects of NGR1. NGR1 had significant effects on reducing cerebral infarct size and neurological deficits in cerebral I/R injury, ameliorating the impaired mitochondrial morphology in myocardial I/R injury, decreasing kidney injury molecule-1 and neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin in renal I/R injury and attenuating jejunal mucosal epithelium injury in intestinal I/R injury. The various organ anti-I/R injury effects of NGR1 are mainly through the suppression of oxidative stress, apoptosis, inflammation, endoplasmic reticulum stress and promotion of angiogenesis and neurogenesis. These findings provide a reference basis for future research of NGR1 on I/R injury.

Biodistribution and pharmacokinetic evaluation of Korean Red Ginseng components using radioisotopes in a rat model

Background

Although many studies have evaluated the efficacy and pharmacokinetics of Korean Red Ginseng (KRG) components (Rg1, Rb1, Rg3, Rd, etc.), few have examined the in vivo pharmacokinetics of the radiolabeled components. This study investigated the pharmacokinetics of ginsenosides and their metabolite compound K (CK), 20(s)-protopanaxadiol (PPD), and 20(s)-protopanaxatriol (PPT) using radioisotopes in rat oral administration.

Methods

Sprague-Dawley rats were dosed orally once with 10 mg/kg of the tritium(3H) radiolabeled samples, and then the blood was collected from the tail vein after 0.25, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, 24, 48, 96, and 168 h. Radioactivity in the organs, feces, urine, and carcass was determined using a liquid scintillation counter (LSC) and a bio-imaging analyzer system (BAS).

Results and conclusion

After oral administration, as the ³H-labeled ginsenosides were converted to metabolites, C_max and half-life increased, and T_max decreased. Interestingly, Rb1 and CK showed similar values, and after a single oral administration of components, the cumulative excretion ratio of urine and feces was 88.9%-92.4%. Although most KRG components were excreted within 96-168 h of administration, small amounts of components were detected in almost all tissues and mainly distributed to the liver except for the digestive tract when observed through autoradiography. This study demonstrated that KRG components were distributed to various organs in the rats. Further studies could be conducted to prove the bioavailability and transmission of KRG components to confirm the mechanism of KRG efficacy.

The Synergistic Mechanism of Total Saponins and Flavonoids in Notoginseng-Safflower against Myocardial Infarction Using a Comprehensive Metabolomics Strategy

Notoginseng and safflower are commonly used traditional Chinese medicines for benefiting qi and activating blood circulation. A previous study by our group showed that the compatibility of the effective components of total saponins of notoginseng (NS) and total flavonoids of safflower (SF), named NS-SF, had a preventive effect on isoproterenol (ISO)-induced myocardial infarction (MI) in rats. However, the therapeutic effect on MI and the synergistic mechanism of NS-SF are still unclear. Therefore, integrated metabolomics, combined with immunohistochemistry and other pharmacological methods, was used to systematically research the therapeutic effect of NS-SF on MI rats and the synergistic mechanism of NS and SF. Compared to NS and SF, the results demonstrated that NS-SF exhibited a significantly better role in ameliorating myocardial damage, apoptosis, easing oxidative stress and anti-inflammation. NS-SF showed a more significant regulatory effect on metabolites involved in sphingolipid metabolism, glycine, serine, and threonine metabolism, primary bile acid biosynthesis, aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis, and tricarboxylic acid cycle, such as sphingosine, lysophosphatidylcholine (18:0), lysophosphatidylethanolamine (22:5/0:0), chenodeoxycholic acid, L-valine, glycine, and succinate, than NS or SF alone, indicating that NS and SF produced a synergistic effect on the treatment of MI. This study will provide a theoretical basis for the clinical development of NS-SF.

Panax notoginseng Suppresses Bone Morphogenetic Protein-2 Expression in EA.hy926 Endothelial Cells by Inhibiting the Noncanonical NF-κB and Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Pathways

Panax notoginseng (PN) exerts cardiovascular-disease-protective effects, but the effect of PN on reducing vascular calcification (VC) is unknown. Under the VC process, however, endothelial bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) signals connect endothelial and smooth muscle cells. To investigate the effects of PN water extract (PNWE) on BMP-2 expression, human EA.hy926 endothelial cells were pretreated with PNWE for 48 h, and BMP-2 expression was then induced using warfarin/β-glycerophosphate (W/BGP) for another 24 h. The expression of BMP-2, the degrees of oxidative stress and inflammation, and the activation of noncanonical NF-κB and Wnt/β-catenin signaling were analyzed. The results showed that the BMP-2 levels in EA.hy926 cells were reduced in the groups treated with 10, 50, or 100 μg/mL PNWE combined with W/BGP. PNWE combined with W/BGP significantly reduced thiobarbituric-acid-reactive substrate and reactive oxygen species levels as well as prostaglandin E2, IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α. PNWE (10, 50, and 100 μg/mL) reduced the p52 levels and p52/p100 protein ratio. Wnt and β-catenin protein expression was decreased in the groups treated with PNWE combined with W/BGP. These results showed that PNWE reduced BMP-2 expression in EA.hy926 cells by inhibiting the noncanonical NF-κB and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways.

Ginsenoside Rg1 ameliorates apoptosis, senescence and oxidative stress in ox‑LDL‑induced vascular endothelial cells via the AMPK/SIRT3/p53 signaling pathway

Coronary heart disease (CHD) mainly refers to coronary atherosclerotic heart disease and its pathogenesis is complex. Ginsenoside Rg1 (Rg1) has a wide range of pharmacological activities, such as antitumor effects, enhancing immunity and exerting protective effects on the vascular system. In the present study, the effect of Rg1 on vascular endothelial cells in CHD was investigated. Oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) was used to induce human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and cells were treated with 1, 5 or 10 µM Rg1. Cell Counting Kit-8 assay, TUNEL staining, western blot analysis of apoptosis-related proteins and senescence-related proteins, senescence-associated β-galactosidase staining, ELISA and other techniques including related kits of oxidative stress markers were used to detect the viability, apoptosis, oxidative stress, inflammatory cytokines including IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α and senescence of ox-LDL-induced HUVECs induced by Rg1. Western blot analysis was used to detect the expression levels of the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)/sirtuin 3 (SIRT3)/p53 signaling pathway-related proteins. In addition, the associated mechanism was further determined using the AMPK pathway inhibitor compound C (CC). Rg1 increased the viability, and inhibited the apoptosis, senescence, oxidative stress and inflammation of ox-LDL-induced HUVECs. Pretreatment with CC partially reversed the protective effect of Rg1 on ox-LDL-induced HUVECs. In conclusion, Rg1 ameliorated apoptosis, senescence and oxidative stress of ox-LDL-induced HUVECs, at least in part, via the AMPK/SIRT3/p53 signaling pathway.

The Potential of Dietary Bioactive Compounds against SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19-Induced Endothelial Dysfunction

COVID-19 is an endothelial disease. All the major comorbidities that increase the risk for severe SARS-CoV-2 infection and severe COVID-19 including old age, obesity, diabetes, hypertension, respiratory disease, compromised immune system, coronary artery disease or heart failure are associated with dysfunctional endothelium. Genetics and environmental factors (epigenetics) are major risk factors for endothelial dysfunction. Individuals with metabolic syndrome are at increased risk for severe SARS-CoV-2 infection and poor COVID-19 outcomes and higher risk of mortality. Old age is a non-modifiable risk factor. All other risk factors are modifiable. This review also identifies dietary risk factors for endothelial dysfunction. Potential dietary preventions that address endothelial dysfunction and its sequelae may have an important role in preventing SARS-CoV-2 infection severity and are key factors for future research to address. This review presents some dietary bioactives with demonstrated efficacy against dysfunctional endothelial cells. This review also covers dietary bioactives with efficacy against SARS-CoV-2 infection. Dietary bioactive compounds that prevent endothelial dysfunction and its sequelae, especially in the gastrointestinal tract, will result in more effective prevention of SARS-CoV-2 variant infection severity and are key factors for future food research to address.

Chinese Herbal Medicine Alleviates Myocardial Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury by Regulating Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress

Myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury is the main cause of increased mortality and disability in cardiovascular diseases. The injury involves many pathological processes, such as oxidative stress, calcium homeostasis imbalance, inflammation, and energy metabolism disorders, and these pathological stimuli can activate endoplasmic reticulum stress. In the early stage of ischemia, endoplasmic reticulum stress alleviates the injury as an adaptive survival response, but the long-term stress on endoplasmic reticulum amplifies oxidative stress, inflammation, and calcium overload to accelerate cell damage and apoptosis. Therefore, regulation of endoplasmic reticulum stress may be a mechanism to improve ischemia/reperfusion injury. Chinese herbal medicine has a long history of clinical application and unique advantages in the treatment of ischemic heart diseases. This review focuses on the effect of Chinese herbal medicine on myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury from the perspective of regulation of endoplasmic reticulum stress.

Preparation and in vitro and in vivo Evaluation Of Panax Notoginseng Saponins-loaded Nanoparticles Coated with Trimethyl Chitosan Derivatives

In this study, novel Panax notoginseng saponins (PNS)-loaded nanoparticles coated with the Trimethyl chitosan (TMC) derivatives TMC-VB₁₂ and TMC-Cys (PPTT-NPs) were developed to improve the oral absorption of the constituents. PPTT-NPs were prepared by the double emulsion method and showed different encapsulation effects on the major components, including Rg1, Rb1, and R1, in PNS. In vivo, the absorption rate constant and apparent absorption coefficient of PPTT-NPs were higher than PNS solution. These findings preliminarily proved that PPTT-NPs can promote intestinal absorption to a certain extent. The pharmacokinetic results indicated that the blood concentration and the area under the curve of Rg1 and Rb1 in the PPTT-NPs were higher than Xueshuantong capsules. The cell viability of PPTT-NPs was above 90% within 25-150 μg/mL. PPTT-NPs promoted the cellular uptake of PNS by receptor-mediated endocytosis. In summary, NPs coated with TMC-VB₁₂ and TMC-Cys can be used as promising drug delivery systems.

Xuesaitong injection treating acute myocardial infarction: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Although the incidence of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is decreasing, the mortality in AMI patients remains substantial. Traditional Chinese medicine has shown its role in the prevention and management of AMI. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the clinical efficacy of Xuesaitong injection (XST) for the treatment of AMI by a meta-analysis.

METHODS

A literature search was performed in 5 medical databases up to June 1, 2020. Randomized controlled trials involving XST combined with conventional treatment versus conventional treatment were included. A meta-analysis of clinical efficacy, left ventricular function and other objective parameters was performed to evaluate the effects of XST on AMI.

RESULTS

Five randomized controlled trials involving 539 participants were eventually included. Meta-analysis showed that the combination of XST and conventional treatment could achieve significantly better effect on improving clinical efficacy (risk ratio: 1.09 [1.01, 1.17]; P = .04), left ventricular ejection fraction (mean difference [MD]: 3.18 [1.69, 4.67]; P < .0001), hypersensitive C-reactive protein (MD: -2.58 [-5.04, -0.12]; P = .04), interleukin 6 (MD: -26.00 [-38.85, -13.16]; P < .0001), cardiac troponin T (MD: -15.85 [-18.09, -13.61]; P < .00001) and creatine kinase myocardial isoenzyme (MD: -73.06 [-79.74, -66.37]; P < .00001).

CONCLUSION

XST combined with conventional treatment can achieve better efficacy on clinical performance and some of the AMI related parameters. However the interpretation of the results should be cautious, due to the relatively low quality of included trials. More rigorously designed, large-scaled, randomized controlled trials are warranted to support its clinical use in the future.

QiShenYiQi ameliorates salt-induced hypertensive nephropathy by balancing ADRA1D and SIK1 expression in Dahl salt-sensitive rats

BACKGROUND

Hypertension is a leading risk factor for developing kidney disease. Current single-target antihypertensive drugs are not effective for hypertensive nephropathy, in part due to its less understood mechanism of pathogenesis. We recently showed that QiShenYiQi (QSYQ), a component-based cardiovascular Chinese medicine, is also effective for ischemic stroke. Given the important role of the brain-heart-kidney axis in blood pressure control, we hypothesized that QSYQ may contribute to blood pressure regulation and kidney protection in Dahl salt-sensitive hypertensive rats.

METHODS

The therapeutic effects of QSYQ on blood pressure and kidney injury in Dahl salt-sensitive rats fed with high salt for 9 weeks were evaluated by tail-cuff blood pressure monitoring, renal histopathological examination and biochemical indicators in urine and serum. RNA-seq was conducted to identify QSYQ regulated genes in hypertensive kidney, and RT-qPCR, immunohistochemistry, and Western blotting analysis were performed to verify the transcriptomics results and validate the purposed mechanisms.

RESULTS

QSYQ treatment significantly decreased blood pressure in Dahl salt-sensitive hypertensive rats, alleviated renal tissue damage, reduced renal interstitial fibrosis and collagen deposition, and improved renal physiological function. RNA-seq and subsequent bioinformatic analysis showed that the expression of ADRA1D and SIK1 genes were among the most prominently altered by QSYQ in salt-sensitive hypertensive rat kidney. RT-qPCR, immunohistochemistry and Western blotting results confirmed that the mRNA and protein expression levels of alpha-1D adrenergic receptor (ADRA1D) in the kidney tissue of the QSYQ-treated rats were markedly down-regulated, while the mRNA and protein levels of salt inducible kinase 1 (SIK1) were significantly increased.

CONCLUSION

QSYQ not only lowered blood pressure, but also alleviated renal damage via reducing the expression of ADRA1D and increasing the expression of SIK1 in the kidney of Dahl salt-sensitive hypertensive rats.

Tengdan Capsule Prevents Hypertensive Kidney Damage in SHR by Inhibiting Periostin-Mediated Renal Fibrosis

BACKGROUND: Hypertension-induced renal damage is a serious and complex condition that has not been effectively treated by conventional blood pressure-lowering drugs. Tengdan capsule (TDC) is a China FDA-approved compound herbal medicine for treating hypertension; however, its chemical basis and pharmacological efficacy have not been fully investigated in a preclinical setting.

METHODS: High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to identify and quantify the major chemical components of TDC extracted from ultrapure water. Adult spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and age/sex-matched Wistar Kyoto normotensive rats (WKY) were both treated with TDC, losartan, or saline for one month, and their blood pressure (BP) was monitored at the same time by tail-cuff BP system. Biochemical indexes such as urine creatinine (CRE) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) were determined. Kidney tissue sections were examined with (H&E), and Masson staining to evaluate the pathological effect of TDC on SHR’s kidneys. After TDC treatment, the differentially expressed proteins in the kidneys of SHR were identified by the TMT-based quantitative proteomics analysis, which may provide the targets and possible mechanisms of TDC action. In addition, Western blot analysis, RT-qPCR, and ELISA assays were carried out to further verify the proteomics findings. Finally, two different models involving in vitro renal injuries were established using human kidney HEK293 cells; and the molecular mechanism of TDC kidney protection was demonstrated.

RESULTS: Seven chemical compounds, namely Notoginsenoside R1, Ginsenoside RG1, Ginsenoside Re, Ginsenoside Rb1, Sodium Danshensu, Protocatechualdehyde, and Salvianolic acid B, were identified and quantified from the water-soluble extracts of TDC by HPLC. In vivo study using rats showed that TDC effectively reduced BP, BUN, and CRE levels and attenuated renal fibrosis in SHR, and ameliorated damage to the kidneys. Proteomics and subsequent bioinformatics analyses indicated that periostin-mediated inflammatory response and TGFβ/Smad signaling pathway proteins were closely related to the therapeutic effect of TDC in rat kidneys. Western blot analysis and RT-qPCR showed that TDC markedly downregulated the mRNA and protein expression of periostin in renal tissues compared to the untreated SHR. In addition, TGF-β and COL1A1 mRNA levels also decreased in SHR renal tissues following TDC treatment. In vitro studies showed that low to medium doses of TDC down-regulated the expression of periostin in the injury model of HEK293 cell. In addition, medium to high doses of TDC significantly inhibited collagen deposition in TGFβ1-induced HEK293 cell fibrosis.

CONCLUSIONS: Major components from the compound herbal medicine Tengdan Capsule are identified and quantified. TDC effectively lowers blood pressure and protects against renal damage caused by hypertension in SHR. Mechanistically, TDC blocks periostin by regulating the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway in the kidney, both in vivo and in vitro. Preventing periostin-mediated renal fibrosis and inflammation might be a promising strategy for treating a hypertensive renal injury.

Effectiveness and Safety of Hwangchil-Unripe Bokbunja Extract Mixture on Blood Pressure: A Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial

From 25% to 50% of adults are affected by prehypertension. Prehypertension increases the risk of hypertension and affects the heart and systemic vascular system. Food mixed tree essence of Dendropanax morbifera called Hwangchil in Korean and immature fruit of Rubus coreanus, called Bokbunja (HDR-2), have been studied for safety and effectiveness against prehypertension studies. This study was a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled multicenter clinical trial lasting 19 months from October 2017 to May 2019. The 88 subjects who enrolled in the study were divided into two groups. The treatment group was provided HDR-2 and the other group took a placebo. Both HDR-2 and placebo were in the form of capsules, and the dose was 900 mg per day. Subjects took HDR-2 or placebo capsules once a day for 8 weeks before dinner. The primary observational indicators were systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and the secondary observational indicators were mean arterial pressure (MAP), mean pulse pressure, pulse rate, angiotensin-converting enzyme activity, renin activity, aldosterone, and highly sensitive-C reactive protein. The number of measurements was three times: the first visit in the screening week, the second visit in 4 weeks, and the third visit was after 8 weeks. Significant study results showed that the SBP and MAP of the HDR-2 group after 8 weeks were lower than those of the placebo group. Adverse events were not significantly different between the two groups. In conclusion, these results suggest that HDR-2 may be a useful intervention for the management of prehypertension. The protocol was registered in the Korean Clinical Trial Registration system (http://cris.nih.go.kr; registration number: KCT0004300).

Ginsenosides in vascular remodeling: Cellular and molecular mechanisms of their therapeutic action

Evidence is mounting that abnormal vascular remodeling (VR) is a vital pathological event that precedes many cardiovascular diseases (CVD). This provides us with a new research perspective that VR can be a pivotal target for CVD treatment and prevention. However, the current drugs for treating CVD do not fundamentally reverse VR and repair vascular function. The reason may be that a complicated regulatory network is formed between the various signaling pathways involved in VR. Recently, ginsenoside, the main active substance of ginseng, has become increasingly the focus of many researchers for its multiple targets, multiple pathways, and few side effects. Several data have revealed that ginsenosides can improve VR caused by vasodilation dysfunction, abnormal vascular structure and blood pressure. This review is intended to discuss the therapeutic effects and mechanisms of ginsenosides in some diseases involved in VR. Besides, we herein also give a new and contradictory insight into intracellular and molecular signaling of ginsenosides in all kinds of vascular cells. Most importantly, we also discuss the feasibility of ginsenosides Rb1/Rg1/Rg3 in drug development by combining the pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of ginsenosides, and provide a pharmacological basis for the development of ginsenosides in clinical applications.

Comparative Analysis on Single- and Multiherb Strategies in Coronary Artery Atherosclerosis Therapy

Herbal medicine unswervingly serves human health by modernizing preparation and administration. Coronary artery atherosclerosis is a serious threat to human health and survival all over the world. Following experimental and clinical evidence, we collected four herbal treatments containing herbal strategy I (San Qi), II (Injectio Salvia Miltiorrhizae), III (Danhong injection), and IV (Taoren Honghua Jian granule) against coronary artery disease. In order to analyze their similarities and differences in controlling coronary artery atherosclerosis, we investigated each herb of four strategies and revealed that the number of active components and molecule targets is increasing with the herb category of herbal strategy. Nitric oxide-associated carbonate dehydratase activity and nitrogen metabolism are tacitly enriched by target corresponding genes with statistical significance in four strategies. The herbal strategy with multiherb not merely possesses more amounts and interactions of target proteins than the strategy with single-herb but also enlarges interaction partners of target proteins like PTPN11 and STAT3 in strategy II, III, and IV. Whereas single-herb also involves regulating network core proteins in consistent with compatibility, such as SRC and PIK3R1 that are mostly targeted by strategy I, III, and IV. Comparing the targets of the herbal strategies and three existing drugs (atenolol, pravastatin and propranolol) and the symbols of coronary artery atherosclerosis, we discovered that MAOA, HTR1A, and ABCG2 are overlapping in the three groups. Hence, our work enables people to better understand the connections and distinctions of single- and multiherb on the healing of coronary artery atherosclerosis.

High-level sustainable production of the characteristic protopanaxatriol-type saponins from Panax species in engineered Saccharomyces cerevisiae

The Chinese medicinal plant Panax notoginseng has been traditionally used to activate blood flow and circulation, and to prevent blood stasis. P. notoginseng contains protopanaxatriol (PPT)-type saponins as its main active compounds, thus distinguishing it from the other two famous Panax species, P. ginseng and P. quinquefolius. Ginsenoside Rg1 (Rg1), notoginsenoside R1 (NgR1), and notoginsenoside R2 (NgR2) are three major PPT-type saponins in P. notoginseng and possess potential cardiovascular protection activities. However, their use in medical applications has long been hampered by the lack of sustainable and low-cost industrial-scale preparation methods. In this study, a PPT-producing yeast chassis strain was designed and constructed based on a previously constructed and optimized protopanaxadiol (PPD)-producing Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain, and further optimized by systemically engineering and optimizing the expression level of its key P450 biopart. Rg1-producing yeast strains were constructed by introducing PgUGT71A53 and PgUGT71A54 into the PPT chassis strain. The fermentation titer of Rg1 reached 1.95 g/L. A group of UDP-glycosyltransferases (UGT) from P. notoginseng and P. ginseng were characterized, and were found to generate NgR1 and NgR2 by catalyzing the C₆-O-Glc xylosylation of Rg1 and Rh1, respectively. Using one of these UGTs, PgUGT94Q13, and the previously identified PgUGT71A53 and PgUGT71A54, the biosynthetic pathway to produce saponins NgR1 and NgR2 from PPT could be available. The NgR1 cell factory was further developed by introducing PgUGT94Q13 and a heterologous UDP-xylose biosynthetic pathway from Arabidopsis thaliana into the highest Rg1-producing cell factory. The NgR2-producing cell factory was constructed by introducing PgUGT71A54, PgUGT94Q13, and the UDP-xylose biosynthetic pathway into the PPT chassis. De novo production of NgR1 and NgR2 reached 1.62 g/L and 1.25 g/L, respectively. Beyond the realization of artificial production of the three valuable saponins Rg1, NgR1, and NgR2 from glucose, our work provides a green and sustainable platform for the efficient production of other PPT-type saponins in engineered yeast strains, and promotes the industrial application of PPT-type saponins as medicine and functional foods.

Effect of Spray Drying Conditions on Physical Properties of Panax notoginseng Saponin (PNS) Powder and the Intra-Batch Dissolution Variability of PNS Hydrophilic Matrix Tablet

Purpose

Understanding raw material variability and its impact on product quality are crucial for developing robust pharmaceutical processes. This work aimed to study the effects of spray drying conditions on properties of the spray dried Panax notoginseng saponin (PNS) powders as well as the subsequent intra-batch dissolution variability of PNS hydrophilic matrix tablets.

Methods

The Plackett-Burman design was applied to screen the critical process parameters (CPPs). Then, the Box-Behnken design was used to investigate the relationship between the CPPs and the physiochemical properties of spray dried PNS powders. The PNS hydrophilic matrix tablets containing 57% spray dried PNS powders were directly compressed. The partial least squares (PLS) regression was used to uncover the hidden multivariate relationships among the CPPs, intermediate powder properties, and tablet quality attributes.

Results

The identified CPPs were the feed concentration, the inlet air temperature, and the atomization pressure. It was found that the CPPs exerted little impact on chemical properties of spray dried PNS powders, but had significant impact on physical properties, such as particle size, specific surface area, bulk density, hygroscopicity, and inter-particle porosity, etc. Latent variable modeling results revealed that the high inlet air temperature of spray drying process could produce PNS powders with low moisture content and high hygroscopicity, which were beneficial to reduce the intra-batch dissolution variability of PNS hydrophilic matrix tablets. Finally, a design space of the spray drying process was built in order to ensure the dissolution consistency.

Conclusion

Our research provided a reference for improving the spray drying conditions in order to ensure the dissolution consistency of the PNS hydrophilic matrix tablet.

Notoginsenoside R1 attenuates breast cancer progression by targeting CCND2 and YBX3

Background:

Breast cancer (BC) is a common malignancy with highly female incidence. So far the function of notoginsenoside R1 (NGR1), the extract from Panax notoginseng, has not been clearly elucidated in BC.

Methods:

Optimal culture concentration and time of NGR1 were investigated by cell counting kit-8 assay. Cell proliferation ability was measured by colony formation assays. Transwell assay was used to detect the effect of NGR1 on cell migration and invasion. The apoptosis rate of cells between each group was measured by TUNEL assay.

Results:

NGR1 treatment has an inhibitory effect on proliferation, migration, invasion, and angiogenesis and a stimulating effect on cell cycle arrest and apoptosis of Michigan Cancer Foundation-7 (MCF-7) cells. The 50% growth inhibitory concentration for MCF-7 cells at 24 h was 148.9 mmol/L. The proportions of MCF-7 cells arrested in the G0/G1 phase were 36.94±6.78%, 45.06±5.60%, and 59.46±5.60% in the control group, 75, and 150 mmol/L groups, respectively. Furthermore, we revealed that NGR1 treatment attenuates BC progression by targeted downregulating CCND2 and YBX3 genes. Additionally, YBX3 activates phosphatidylinositol 3-phosphate kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt) signaling pathway by activating kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene, which is an activator of the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway.

Conclusion:

These results suggest that NGR1 can act as an efficacious drug candidate that targets the YBX3/PI3K/Akt axis in patients with BC.

The chromosome-level reference genome assembly for Panax notoginseng and insights into ginsenoside biosynthesis

Panax notoginseng, a perennial herb of the genus Panax in the family Araliaceae, has played an important role in clinical treatment in China for thousands of years because of its extensive pharmacological effects. Here, we report a high-quality reference genome of P. notoginseng, with a genome size up to 2.66 Gb and a contig N50 of 1.12 Mb, produced with third-generation PacBio sequencing technology. This is the first chromosome-level genome assembly for the genus Panax. Through genome evolution analysis, we explored phylogenetic and whole-genome duplication events and examined their impact on saponin biosynthesis. We performed a detailed transcriptional analysis of P. notoginseng and explored gene-level mechanisms that regulate the formation of characteristic tubercles. Next, we studied the biosynthesis and regulation of saponins at temporal and spatial levels. We combined multi-omics data to identify genes that encode key enzymes in the P. notoginseng terpenoid biosynthetic pathway. Finally, we identified five glycosyltransferase genes whose products catalyzed the formation of different ginsenosides in P. notoginseng. The genetic information obtained in this study provides a resource for further exploration of the growth characteristics, cultivation, breeding, and saponin biosynthesis of P. notoginseng.

Traditional uses, chemical diversity and biological activities of Panax L. (Araliaceae): A review

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Panax L. (Araliaceae) is globally-recognized plant resource suitable for the globalization of traditional Chinese medicines. It has traditionally been used as tonic agents in various ethnomedicinal systems of East Asia, especially in China. It is often used to regulate bodily functions and considered as adjuvant therapy for tumor, resuscitation of traumatic hemorrhagic shock, etc. AIM OF THIS REVIEW: This review systematically summarized the information on distributions, botanical characteristics, traditional uses, chemical components and biological activities of the genus Panax, in order to explore and exploit the therapeutic potential of this plant.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The available information about genus Panax was collected via the online search on Web of Science, Google Scholar, PubMed, Baidu Scholar, Science Direct, China National Knowledge Infrastructure and Springer search. The keywords used include Panax, saponin, secondary metabolites, chemical components, biological activity, pharmacology, traditional medicinal uses, safety and other related words. The Plant List (www.theplantlist.org) and Catalogue of Life: 2019 Annual Checklist (www.catalogueoflife.org/col/) databases were used to provide the scientific names, subspecies classification and distribution information of Panax.

RESULTS

Panax is widely assessed concerning its phytochemistry and biological activities. To date, at least 748 chemical compounds from genus Panax were isolated, including saponins, flavonoids, polysaccharides, steroids and phenols. Among them, triterpenoid saponins and polysaccharides were the representative active ingredients of Panax plants, which have been widely investigated. Modern pharmacological studies showed that these compounds exhibited a wide range of biological activities in vitro and in vivo including antineoplastic, anti-inflammatory, hepatorenal protective, neuroprotective, immunoregulatory, cardioprotective and antidiabetic activities. Many studies also confirmed that the mechanisms of organ-protective were closely related to molecular signaling pathways, the expression of related proteins and antioxidant reactions. To sum up, genus Panax has high medicinal and social value, deserving further investigation.

CONCLUSIONS

The genus Panax is very promising to be fully utilized in the development of nutraceutical and pharmaceutical products. However, there is a lack of in-depth studies on ethnomedicinal uses of Panax plants. In addition, further studies of single chemical component should be performed based on the diversity of chemical structure, significant biological activities and clinical application. If the bioactive molecules and multicomponent interactions are discovered, it will be of great significance to the clinical application of Panax plants. It is an urgent requirement to carry out detailed phytochemical, pharmacology and clinical research on Panax classical prescriptions for the establishment of modern medication guidelines. Exploring the molecular basis of herbal synergistic actions may provide a new understanding of the complex disease mechanisms and accelerate the process of pharmaceutical development.

Natural Drugs as a Treatment Strategy for Cardiovascular Disease through the Regulation of Oxidative Stress

Oxidative stress (OS) refers to the physiological imbalance between oxidative and antioxidative processes leading to increased oxidation, which then results in the inflammatory infiltration of neutrophils, increased protease secretion, and the production of a large number of oxidative intermediates. Oxidative stress is considered an important factor in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease (CVD). At present, active components of Chinese herbal medicines (CHMs) have been widely used for the treatment of CVD, including coronary heart disease and hypertension. Since the discovery of artemisinin for the treatment of malaria by Nobel laureate Youyou Tu, the therapeutic effects of active components of CHM on various diseases have been widely investigated by the medical community. It has been found that various active CHM components can regulate oxidative stress and the circulatory system, including ginsenoside, astragaloside, and resveratrol. This paper reviews advances in the use of active CHM components that modulate oxidative stress, suggesting potential drugs for the treatment of various CVDs.

Traditional Chinese medicine protects against hypertensive kidney injury in Dahl salt-sensitive rats by targeting transforming growth factor-β signaling pathway

This study investigated the therapeutic efficacy of Bu-Shen-Jiang-Ya decoction (BSJYD) on hypertensive renal damage to determine whether it regulates the expression of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)/SMADs signaling pathways, thereby relieving renal fibrosis in Dahl salt-sensitive (SS) rats. Dahl SS rats on a high-sodium diet were prospectively treated with BSJYD (n = 12) or valsartan (n = 12) for 8 weeks. The blood pressure (BP) of these rats was measured and their kidneys were subjected to biochemical analysis, including serum creatinine (Scr) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN); hematoxylin and eosin staining; Masson trichrome staining; real-time polymerase chain reaction; and western blot analysis. The primary outcome was that BSJYD significantly reduced BP, debased BUN, and Scr and ameliorated renal pathological changes. As underlying therapeutic mechanisms, BSJYD reduces TGFβ1 and Smad2/3 expression and suppresses renal fibrosis, as suggested by the decreased expression of connective tissue growth factor(CTGF). These data suggest that BSJYD acts as an optimal therapeutic agent for hypertensive renal damage by inhibiting the TGF-β/SMADs signaling pathway.

A Review of Medicinal Plants in Cardiovascular Disorders: Benefits and Risks

Many cultivated and wild plants are used for the management of various diseases, specifically renal and hepatic diseases and those of the immune and cardiovascular systems. In China, medicinal plants from ancient to modern history have been used in patients with angina pectoris, congestive heart failure (CHF), systolic hypertension, arrhythmia, and venous insufficiency for centuries. The latest increase in the fame of natural products and alternative medicine has revived interest in conventional remedies that have been consumed in the management of CVD. The cardio-protective properties of the various herbs are possibly due to their anti-oxidative, antihypercholesterolemic, anti-ischemic activities, and inhibition of platelet aggregation that reduce the risk of CVD. Ethno-pharmacological and biological properties of these plants are explored, based upon published scientific literature. Although a majority of medicinal plants having a biological mechanism that linked with CVD management, to date, published literature pertaining to their promising scientific properties are still poorly understood. Compared with synthetic medicines, alternative medicines do not need scientific studies before their formal approval from the government sector and due to this purpose; their safety, as well as efficacy, still remain elusive. Taken together, we addressed all accessible evidence on alternative medicines commonly consumed in CVD management. Our comprehensive analysis of the scientific literature indicated that many TCMs are available and valuable herbal medication would be the best alternative for the management of CVD as a complementary therapy. Furthermore, practitioners should always discuss possible benefits-risks of alternative medicines with patients so that they are aware of the consumption of alternative medications.

Notoginsenoside R1 attenuates sevoflurane-induced neurotoxicity

Background

Sevoflurane, a volatile anesthetic, is known to induce widespread neuronal degeneration and apoptosis. Recently, the stress-inducible protein sestrin 2 and adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) have been found to regulate the levels of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and suppress oxidative stress. Notoginsenoside R1 (NGR1), a saponin isolated from Panax notoginseng, has been shown to exert neuroprotective effects. The effects of NGR1 against neurotoxicity induced by sevoflurane were assessed.

Methods

Sprague-Dawley rat pups on postnatal day 7 (PD7) were exposed to sevoflurane (3%) anesthesia for 6 h. NGR1 at doses of 12.5, 25, or 50 mg/kg body weight was orally administered to pups from PD2 to PD7.

Results

Pretreatment with NGR1 attenuated sevoflurane-induced generation of ROS and reduced apoptotic cell counts. Western blotting revealed decreased cleaved caspase 3 and Bad and Bax pro-apoptotic protein expression. NGR1 substantially upregulated nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) expression along with increased heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and NAD(P)H quinone oxidoreductase-1 levels, suggesting Nrf2 signaling activation. Enhanced sestrin-2 and phosphorylated AMPK expression were noticed following NGR1 pretreatment.

Conclusion

This study revealed the neuroprotective effects of NGR1 through effective suppression of apoptosis and ROS via regulation of apoptotic proteins and activation of Nrf2/HO-1 and sestrin 2/AMPK signaling cascades.

Chinese Herbal Medicine Xueshuantong Enhances Cerebral Blood Flow and Improves Neural Functions in Alzheimer's Disease Mice

Reduced cerebral blood flow in Alzheimer's disease (AD) may occur in early AD, which contributes to the pathogenesis and/or pathological progression of AD. Reversing this deficit may have therapeutic potential. Certain traditional Chinese herbal medicines (e.g., Saponin and its major component Xueshuantong [XST]) increase blood flow in humans, but whether they could be effective in treating AD patients has not been tested. We found that systemic XST injection elevated cerebral blood flow in APP/PS1 transgenic mice using two-photon time-lapse imaging in the same microvessels before and after injection. Subchronic XST treatment led to improved spatial learning and memory and motor performance in the APP/PS1 mice, suggesting improved neural plasticity and functions. Two-photon time lapse imaging of the same plaques revealed a reduction in plaque size after XST treatment. In addition, western blots experiments showed that XST treatment led to reduced processing of amyloid-β protein precursor (AβPP) and enhanced clearance of amyloid-β (Aβ) without altering the total level of AβPP. We also found increased synapse density in the immediate vicinity of amyloid plaques, suggesting enhanced synaptic function. We conclude that targeting cerebral blood flow can be an effective strategy in treating AD.

Lancemaside A, a major triterpene saponin of Codonopsis lanceolata enhances regulation of nitric oxide synthesis via eNOS activation

Background

Many studies on the effect of saponin-rich Codonopsis lanceolata as a bioactive source for improving physical health have been performed. C. lanceolata contains triterpenoid saponins, including lancemasides. These saponins are known to be particularly involved in the regulation of blood pressure or hypertension. This study investigated whether lancemaside A (LA), a major triterpenoid saponin from C. lanceolata, regulates nitric oxide (NO) production via the activation of endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) in human umbilical vein endothelial cells.

Methods

Upon separation with petroleum ether, ethyl acetate, and n-butanol, LA was found to be abundant in the n-butanol-soluble portion. For further purification of LA, HPLC was performed to collect fraction, and LA was identified using analysis of LC/MSMS and ¹³C-NMR values. In in vitro, the effects of LA on NO release mechanism in HUVECs were investigated by Griess assay, quantitative real-time reverse-transcription PCR, and Western blotting.

Results

Our results showed that NO production was efficiently improved by treatment with LA in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, the LA treatment resulted in extensive recovery of the NO production suppressed by the eNOS inhibitor, L-NAME, compared with that in the control group. Additionally, the level of eNOS mRNA was increased by this treatment in a dose-dependent manner. These results suggested that LA is an inducer of NO synthesis via eNOS mRNA expression. Also, the study indicated that LA is involved in activating the PI3K/Akt/eNOS signaling pathway.

Conclusion

These results suggested that LA is an inducer of NO synthesis via eNOS mRNA expression. Also, the study indicated that LA is involved in activating the PI3K/Akt/eNOS signaling pathway. These findings suggest the value of using LA as a component of functional foods and natural pharmaceuticals.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12906-019-2516-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Mechanisms of action of Panax notoginseng ethanolic extract for its vasodilatory effects and partial characterization of vasoactive compounds

Panax notoginseng is the most valuable medicinal plant and has been used clinically for more than two thousand years to treat various diseases, including hypertension. Previous studies claimed that different isolated compounds from P. notoginseng are involved in different pathways for vasodilation. It is strongly believed that these vasodilating compounds might act synergistically in contributing vasodilatory effects via holistic signaling pathways. The present study aims to evaluate the vasodilatory effect and mechanism of action employed by the crude extract of P. notoginseng. The fingerprint of P. notoginseng was developed using tri-step FTIR and HPTLC. The contents of Rg1 and Rb1 in the active extract (PN95) were further quantified via HPTLC. The vasodilatory effect of PN95 was evaluated using an in vitro aortic ring model. The results showed that PN95 contains a high amount of Rg1 and Rb1, 25.9 and 13.6%, respectively. The vasodilatory effect of PN95 was elicited via the NO/sGC/cGMP and β₂-adrenergic receptors pathways. Furthermore, PN95 could manage vascular tone by regulating action potentials via potassium and both VOCC and IP₃R pathways. The results obtained fulfilled the expected outcome where the PN95 employed more signaling pathways than any of the single active compounds; hence, the holistic therapeutic effect could be achieved and would more easily translate to applications for the treatment of human diseases.

Qingchang Suppository Ameliorates Colonic Vascular Permeability in Dextran-Sulfate-Sodium-Induced Colitis

Ulcerative colitis (UC), with a long course and repeated attack, severely affects patient's life quality and increases economic burden all over the world. However, the concrete causes and mechanisms of UC are still unclear, but it is generally considered that many factors participate in this process. Qingchang Suppository (QCS) has been used in treating rectitis and colitis for about 30 years in Shanghai, China. Its satisfactory clinical effects have been proved. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect and mechanisms of QCS on colonic vascular endothelial barrier in dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis. The results indicated that increased vascular permeability (VP) appeared earlier than increased intestinal epithelial permeability (EP) in the process of DSS-induced colitis. QCS attenuated colonic tissue edema, vascular congestion and inflammatory cell infiltration. QCS inhibited the elevation of MPO, TNF-α, and IL-6 levels in colon tissues and alleviated the microvascular damage induced by DSS. QCS also improved colonic hypoxia and decreased the expression of VEGF, HIF-1α, and iNOS. These results revealed that QCS can reduce colonic VP and can improve vascular endothelial barrier function maybe by regulating the VEGF/HIF-1α signaling pathway.

Phytochemistry, pharmacology, and clinical use of Panax notoginseng flowers buds

Panax notoginseng is a well-known traditional Chinese medicine, and dried flower buds of P. notoginseng (FBP) have also been used as a medicine or tea for a long time. The pharmacological effects of FBP include antihypertensive, anticancer, hepatoprotective, and cardiovascular protective effects. The compounds in FBP include saponins, flavonoids, volatile oils, and polysaccharides. The total saponins are the principal bioactive components. In modern applications, FBP is used to treat hypertension and tinnitus. There have been many studies on FBP and its effects in recent years, and it has attracted much attention in the medical field. This review summarizes the chemical components, pharmacological action, and clinical uses of FBP comprehensively to provide the references of deeper studies.

The Signaling Pathways Involved in the Antiatherosclerotic Effects Produced by Chinese Herbal Medicines

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are considered to be the predominant cause of death in the world. Chinese herb medicines (CHMs) have been widely used for the treatment of CVDs in Asian countries for thousands of years. One reason of high efficacy of CHMs in treating CVDs is attributed to their inhibition in atherosclerosis (AS) development, a critical contributor to CVDs occurrence. Cumulative studies have demonstrated that CHMs alleviate atherogenesis via mediating pathophysiologic events involved in AS. However, there is deficiency in the summaries regarding antiatherogenic signal pathways regulated by CHMs. In this review, we focus on the signal cascades by which herb medicines and relevant extractives, derivatives, and patents improve proatherogenic processes including endothelium dysfunction, lipid accumulation, and inflammation. We mainly elaborate the CHMs-mediated signaling pathways in endothelial cells, macrophages, and vascular smooth muscle cells of each pathogenic event. Moreover, we briefly describe the other AS-related factors such as thrombosis, autophagy, immune response, and noncoding RNAs and effects of CHMs on them in the way of cascade regulation, which is helpful to further illustrate the molecular mechanisms of AS initiation and progression and discover newly effective agents for AS management.