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Liang X, Wei Y, Hou X, Guo Q, Liang H, Zeng K, Tu P, Zhang Q. Triterpenoids from Uncaria macrophylla as ferroptosis inhibitors. PHYTOCHEMISTRY 2023; 206:113530. [PMID: 36455653 DOI: 10.1016/j.phytochem.2022.113530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Seven undescribed triterpenoids were obtained from the ethanol extract of the dried stems of Uncaria macrophylla Wall. (Rubiaceae).All of the isolates were urs-28-oic acid or olean-28-oic acid skeletons, including three triterpenoids with rare 3β,23-(1R-4-hydroxy-butyl-1,1-dioxy) or 23-(2R-tetrahydrofuran-2-oxy) substituents. Five triterpenoids showed promising inhibitory activity against erastin-induced ferroptosis in PC12 cells, while 3β,6α,23-trihydroxy-olean-12-en-28-oic acid was the most significant inhibitor to resist ferroptosis by activating the Nrf2/SLC7A11/GPx4 axis with an EC50 value of 4.2 ± 0.7 μM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaomin Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs and Department of Natural Medicines, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Yuding Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs and Department of Natural Medicines, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Xingzi Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs and Department of Natural Medicines, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Qiang Guo
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Hong Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs and Department of Natural Medicines, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Kewu Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs and Department of Natural Medicines, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Pengfei Tu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs and Department of Natural Medicines, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Qingying Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs and Department of Natural Medicines, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China.
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Gao L, Zhang Z, Wu W, Deng Y, Zhi H, Long H, Lei M, Hou J, Wu W, Guo DA. Quantitative imaging of natural products in fine brain regions using desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry imaging (DESI-MSI): Uncaria alkaloids as a case study. Anal Bioanal Chem 2022; 414:4999-5007. [PMID: 35639139 DOI: 10.1007/s00216-022-04130-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Revised: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Uncaria species (Rubiaceae) are used as traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) to treat central nervous system (CNS) diseases, and monoterpene indole alkaloids are the main bioactive constituents. Localization and quantification of CNS drugs in fine brain regions are important to provide insights into their pharmacodynamics, for which quantitative mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) has emerged as a powerful technique. A systematic study of the quantitative imaging of seven Uncaria alkaloids in rat brains using desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry imaging (DESI-MSI) was presented. The distribution of the alkaloids in thirteen brain regions was quantified successfully using the calibration curves generated by a modified on-tissue approach. The distribution trend of different Uncaria alkaloids in the rat brain was listed as monoterpene indole alkaloids > monoterpene oxindole alkaloids, R-configuration epimers > S-configuration epimers. Particularly, Uncaria alkaloids were detected directly in the pineal gland for the first time and their enrichment phenomenon in this region had an instructive significance in future pharmacodynamic studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Gao
- Shanghai Research Center for Modernization of Traditional Chinese Medicine, National Engineering Laboratory for TCM Standardization Technology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Zijia Zhang
- Shanghai Research Center for Modernization of Traditional Chinese Medicine, National Engineering Laboratory for TCM Standardization Technology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Wenyong Wu
- Shanghai Research Center for Modernization of Traditional Chinese Medicine, National Engineering Laboratory for TCM Standardization Technology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China.,School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Yanping Deng
- Shanghai Research Center for Modernization of Traditional Chinese Medicine, National Engineering Laboratory for TCM Standardization Technology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Haijuan Zhi
- Shanghai Research Center for Modernization of Traditional Chinese Medicine, National Engineering Laboratory for TCM Standardization Technology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Huali Long
- Shanghai Research Center for Modernization of Traditional Chinese Medicine, National Engineering Laboratory for TCM Standardization Technology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Min Lei
- Shanghai Research Center for Modernization of Traditional Chinese Medicine, National Engineering Laboratory for TCM Standardization Technology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Jinjun Hou
- Shanghai Research Center for Modernization of Traditional Chinese Medicine, National Engineering Laboratory for TCM Standardization Technology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Wanying Wu
- Shanghai Research Center for Modernization of Traditional Chinese Medicine, National Engineering Laboratory for TCM Standardization Technology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China. .,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
| | - De-An Guo
- Shanghai Research Center for Modernization of Traditional Chinese Medicine, National Engineering Laboratory for TCM Standardization Technology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
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3
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An updated review on the antimicrobial and pharmacological properties of the genus Uncaria (Rubiaceae). J Herb Med 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hermed.2022.100573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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4
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Li Z, Shi H, Li Y, Wang W, Li Z, Chen B, Nie D. Isorhynchophylline ameliorates the progression of osteoarthritis by inhibiting the NF-κB pathway. Eur J Pharmacol 2022; 924:174971. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2022.174971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2021] [Revised: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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Xu QQ, Shaw PC, Hu Z, Yang W, Ip SP, Xian YF, Lin ZX. Comparison of the chemical constituents and anti-Alzheimer's disease effects of Uncaria rhynchophylla and Uncaria tomentosa. Chin Med 2021; 16:110. [PMID: 34706756 PMCID: PMC8555092 DOI: 10.1186/s13020-021-00514-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Uncaria tomentosa, which has similar chemical constituents with Uncaria rhynchophylla, has been reported to alleviate cognitive impairments in Alzheimer's disease (AD) animal models. This study aimed to compare the chemical constituents and anti-AD effect of the ethanol extracts of U. tomentosa (UTE) and U. rhynchophylla (URE). METHODS The high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to compare the chemical constituents of UTE and URE. Streptozotocin (STZ) was intracerebroventricularly (ICV) injected into adult male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats to establish AD model. UTE (400 mg/kg) or URE (400 mg/kg) was administrated intragastrically once daily to the rats for 6 consecutive weeks. Morris water maze (MWM) test was conducted to assess the neurological functions in the STZ-induced AD rats. The brain tissues of the rats were harvested for further biochemical assay. RESULTS The MWM test results showed both UTE and URE could significantly improve the learning and memory impairments induced by STZ in rats. Both UTE and URE could significantly inhibit the hyperphosphorylation of tau protein, reduce the elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α), enhance activities of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT and GPx) and increase the protein expression of HO-1. In addition, UTE could decrease the malondialdehyde (MDA) level. Furthermore, both UTE and URE significantly enhanced Akt activation, down regulated the activation of glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK-3β), and induced the nuclear translocation of Nrf2 in the STZ-induced AD rats. CONCLUSIONS UTE and URE contained similar chemical constituents. We found for the first time that both of them could ameliorate cognitive deficits in the STZ-induced AD rats. The underlying molecular mechanism involve suppression of tau hyperphosphorylation, anti-oxidant and anti-neuroinflammation via modulating Akt (Ser473)/GSK3β (Ser9)-mediated Nrf2 activation. These findings amply implicate that both of UTE and URE are worthy of being developed clinically into pharmaceutical treatment for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing-Qing Xu
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong SAR, People’s Republic of China
| | - Pang Chui Shaw
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong SAR, People’s Republic of China
- Li Dak Sum Yip Yio Chin R&D Centre for Chinese Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong SAR, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhen Hu
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong SAR, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wen Yang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong SAR, People’s Republic of China
| | - Siu-Po Ip
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong SAR, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yan-Fang Xian
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong SAR, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhi-Xiu Lin
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong SAR, People’s Republic of China
- Li Dak Sum Yip Yio Chin R&D Centre for Chinese Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong SAR, People’s Republic of China
- Hong Kong Institute of Integrative Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong SAR, People’s Republic of China
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Kushida H, Matsumoto T, Ikarashi Y. Properties, Pharmacology, and Pharmacokinetics of Active Indole and Oxindole Alkaloids in Uncaria Hook. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:688670. [PMID: 34335255 PMCID: PMC8317223 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.688670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Uncaria Hook (UH) is a dry stem with hook of Ucaria plant and is contained in Traditional Japanese and Chinese medicine such as yokukansan, yokukansankachimpihange, chotosan, Gouteng-Baitouweng, and Tianma-Gouteng Yin. UH contains active indole and oxindole alkaloids and has the therapeutic effects on ailments of the cardiovascular and central nervous systems. The recent advances of analytical technology led to reports of detailed pharmacokinetics of UH alkaloids. These observations of pharmacokinetics are extremely important for understanding the treatment’s pharmacological activity, efficacy, and safety. This review describes properties, pharmacology, and the recently accumulated pharmacokinetic findings of UH alkaloids, and discusses challenges and future prospects. UH contains major indole and oxindole alkaloids such as corynoxeine, isocorynoxeine, rhynchophylline, isorhynchophylline, hirsuteine, hirsutine, and geissoschizine methyl ether (GM). These alkaloids exert neuroprotective effects against Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and depression, and the mechanisms of these effects include anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuromodulatory activities. Among the UH alkaloids, GM exhibits comparatively potent pharmacological activity (e.g., agonist activity at 5-HT1A receptors). UH alkaloids are absorbed into the blood circulation and rapidly eliminated when orally administered. UH alkaloids are predominantly metabolized by Cytochrome P450 (CYP) and converted into various metabolites, including oxidized and demethylated forms. Regarding GM metabolism by CYPs, a gender-dependent difference is observed in rats but not in humans. Several alkaloids are detected in the brain after passing through the blood–brain barrier in rats upon orally administered. GM is uniformly distributed in the brain and binds to various channels and receptors such as the 5-HT receptor. By reviewing the pharmacokinetics of UH alkaloids, challenges were found, such as differences in pharmacokinetics between pure drug and crude drug products administration, food-influenced absorption, metabolite excretion profile, and intestinal tissue metabolism of UH alkaloids. This review will provide readers with a better understanding of the pharmacokinetics of UH alkaloids and their future challenges, and will be helpful for further research on UH alkaloids and crude drug products containing UH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hirotaka Kushida
- Tsumura Kampo Research Laboratories, Kampo Research & Development Division, Tsumura & Co., Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Takashi Matsumoto
- Tsumura Kampo Research Laboratories, Kampo Research & Development Division, Tsumura & Co., Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Yasushi Ikarashi
- Tsumura Kampo Research Laboratories, Kampo Research & Development Division, Tsumura & Co., Ibaraki, Japan
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Cognitive Dysfunction in a Mouse Model of Cerebral Ischemia Influences Salivary Metabolomics. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10081698. [PMID: 33920851 PMCID: PMC8071145 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10081698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Revised: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Vascular dementia, caused by cerebrovascular disease, is associated with cognitive impairment and reduced hippocampal metabolite levels. Specifically, cognitive impairment can be induced by decreased hippocampal brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression. The development of low or non-invasive biomarkers to characterize these diseases is an urgent task. Disturbance of metabolic pathways has been frequently observed in cognitive impairment, and salivary molecules also showed the potentials to reflect cognitive impairment. Therefore, we evaluated salivary metabolic profiles associated with altered hippocampal BDNF expression levels in a cerebral ischemia mouse model using metabolomic analyses. The effect of tacrine (a cholinesterase inhibitor) administration was also examined. The arteries of ICR mice were occluded with aneurysm clips to generate the cerebral ischemia model. Learning and memory performance was assessed using the elevated plus maze (EPM) test. Hippocampal and blood BDNF levels were quantified using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Glutamate decarboxylase 1 (GAD1) mRNA expression, is associated with cognitive impairment, was quantified by a real-time polymerase chain reaction. The EPM test revealed impaired spatial working memory in the cerebral ischemia mouse model; tacrine administration ameliorated this memory impairment. Cerebral ischemia suppressed GAD1 expression by decreasing hippocampal BDNF expression. In total, seven salivary metabolites, such as trimethylamine N-oxide and putrescine, were changed by cognitive impairment and tacrine administration. Our data suggest that salivary metabolite patterns were associated with cognitive function.
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Yang W, Ip SP, Liu L, Xian YF, Lin ZX. Uncaria rhynchophylla and its Major Constituents on Central Nervous System: A Review on Their Pharmacological Actions. Curr Vasc Pharmacol 2020; 18:346-357. [PMID: 31272356 DOI: 10.2174/1570161117666190704092841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2019] [Revised: 04/29/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Uncaria rhynchophylla (Miq.) Jacks (Rubinaceae), a common herbal medicine known as Gou-teng in Chinese, is commonly used in Chinese medicine practice for the treatment of convulsions, hypertension, epilepsy, eclampsia and other cerebral diseases. The major active components of U. rhynchophylla are alkaloids, terpenoids and flavonoids. The protective effects of U. rhynchophylla and its major components on central nervous system (CNS) have become a focus of research in recent decades. OBJECTIVE The study aimed to systematically summarize the pharmacological activities of U. rhynchophylla and its major components on the CNS. METHODS This review summarized the experimental findings from our laboratories, together with other literature data obtained through a comprehensive search of databases including the Pubmed and the Web of Science. RESULTS U. rhynchophylla and its major components such as rhynchophylline and isorhynchophylline have been shown to have neuroprotective effects on Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, depression, cerebral ischaemia through a number of mechanisms including anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory actions and regulation on neurotransmitters. CONCLUSION U. rhynchophylla and its major components have multiple beneficial pharmacological effects on CNS. Further studies on U. rhynchophylla and its major components are warranted to fully illustrate the underlying molecular mechanisms, pharmacokinetics, and toxicological profiles of these naturally occurring compounds and their potential for clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Yang
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Chinese Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Siu-Po Ip
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Chinese Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.,Brain Research Centre, School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ling Liu
- Basic Medical College, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Yan-Fang Xian
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Chinese Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.,Brain Research Centre, School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Zhi-Xiu Lin
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Chinese Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.,Brain Research Centre, School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.,Hong Kong Institute of Integrative Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Guo Q, Si X, Shi Y, Yang H, Liu X, Liang H, Tu P, Zhang Q. Glucoconjugated Monoterpene Indole Alkaloids from Uncaria rhynchophylla. JOURNAL OF NATURAL PRODUCTS 2019; 82:3288-3301. [PMID: 31804070 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jnatprod.9b00490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Twenty-six glucoconjugated monoterpene indole alkaloids, including 12 new compounds, rhynchophyllosides A-L (1-12), and 14 known ones, 13-26, were obtained from the hook-bearing stems of Uncaria rhynchophylla (Miq.) Miq. ex Havil. Their structures were unambiguously elucidated by analyses of UV, MS, NMR, ECD, and single-crystal X-ray diffraction data. The ESI-MSn behavior of the new glucoalkaloids was also elucidated. Although comprising the same glucosyl moiety, the aglycone skeletons and glucosidic numbers and linkage varied greatly, implying the diversity in biosynthetic pathways. This is the first report of such structurally diverse glucoconjugated monoterpene indole alkaloids from U. rhynchophylla. Compound 1 represents a new subtype of oxindole alkaloid with a seven-membered D-ring, 10 is a rare monoterpene indole alkaloid with the glucosyl moiety located at C-9, 4 and 5 are the first two oxindole alkaloid diglycosides, and 11 and 12 represent the first two examples of alkaloids with a quinolone nucleus from the genus Uncaria. Compound 10 exhibited moderate acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitory activity with an IC50 value of 10.5 μM. Molecular docking was performed to explore the binding mode of inhibitor 10 at the active site of AChE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs and Department of Natural Medicines, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences , Peking University Health Science Center , Beijing 100191 , People's Republic of China
| | - Xiali Si
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs and Department of Natural Medicines, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences , Peking University Health Science Center , Beijing 100191 , People's Republic of China
| | - Yuntao Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs and Department of Natural Medicines, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences , Peking University Health Science Center , Beijing 100191 , People's Republic of China
| | - Hongshuai Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs and Department of Natural Medicines, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences , Peking University Health Science Center , Beijing 100191 , People's Republic of China
| | - Xinyu Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs and Department of Natural Medicines, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences , Peking University Health Science Center , Beijing 100191 , People's Republic of China
| | - Hong Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs and Department of Natural Medicines, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences , Peking University Health Science Center , Beijing 100191 , People's Republic of China
| | - Pengfei Tu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs and Department of Natural Medicines, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences , Peking University Health Science Center , Beijing 100191 , People's Republic of China
| | - Qingying Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs and Department of Natural Medicines, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences , Peking University Health Science Center , Beijing 100191 , People's Republic of China
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Brandt A, Joop G, Vilcinskas A. Tribolium castaneum as a whole-animal screening system for the detection and characterization of neuroprotective substances. ARCHIVES OF INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2019; 100:e21532. [PMID: 30653719 DOI: 10.1002/arch.21532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a movement disorder caused by the progressive loss of dopaminergic neurons. Natural antioxidants and plant extracts with neuroprotective properties offer a promising new therapeutic approach for PD patients, but a suitable large-scale screening system is required for their discovery and preclinical analysis. Here we used the red flour beetle (Tribolium castaneum ) as a whole-animal screening system for the detection and characterization of neuroprotective substances. Paraquat was added to the diet of adult beetles to induce PD-like symptoms, which were quantified using a novel positive geotaxis behavioral assay. These paraquat-induced behavioral changes were reduced in beetles fed on diets supplemented with l-dihydroxyphenylalanine, ascorbic acid, curcumin, hempseed flour, or the Chinese herb gou-teng. T. castaneum is, therefore, a valuable model for the screening of neuroprotective substances in chemical libraries and plant extracts and could be developed as a model for the preclinical testing of therapeutic candidates for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, such as PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annely Brandt
- Department of Bioresources, Fraunhofer Institute of Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology, Giessen, Germany
- LLH-Bee Institute Kirchhain, Kirchhain, Germany
| | - Gerrit Joop
- Institute for Insect Biotechnology, Justus-Liebig-University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Andreas Vilcinskas
- Department of Bioresources, Fraunhofer Institute of Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology, Giessen, Germany
- Institute for Insect Biotechnology, Justus-Liebig-University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany
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Li HQ, Ip SP, Zheng GQ, Xian YF, Lin ZX. Isorhynchophylline alleviates learning and memory impairments induced by aluminum chloride in mice. Chin Med 2018; 13:29. [PMID: 29946349 PMCID: PMC6000983 DOI: 10.1186/s13020-018-0187-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2018] [Accepted: 06/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To evaluate the effect of Isorhynchophylline (IRN) on the learning and memory impairments induced by aluminum chloride (AlCl3) in mice. METHODS Fifty male Balb-c mice (4-month-old) were randomly divided into five groups: control, AlCl3 plus vehicle, AlCl3 plus IRN (20 mg/kg), AlCl3 plus IRN (40 mg/kg) and AlCl3 plus donepezil (5 mg/kg). Learning and memory impairments were induced in mice by subcutaneously injecting with AlCl3 (50 mg/kg) once a day for 8 consecutive weeks. At the same time, mice were intragastrically given vehicle or IRN (20 and 40 mg/kg) or donepezil (5 mg/kg) 30 min before each AlCl3 injection. The spatial learning and memory function was assessed using radial arm maze. After sacrificed, the parameters of oxidative stress and cholinergic system in the brain tissues were examined with ELISA kits. Moreover, the expression of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathway was analyzed with western blotting. RESULTS The results showed that treatment with IRN could significantly ameliorate the cognitive deficits induced by AlCl3 in mice. In addition, treatment with IRN was found to reduce the level of malondialdehyde, enhance the activities of superoxide dismutases and catalase, increase the level of glutathione, and markedly inhibit the activity of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) in the brain tissues of the AlCl3-treated mice. Moreover, IRN significantly suppressed the phosphorylation of NF-κB p65 and IκBα in the brain tissues of AlCl3-treated mice. However, IRN did not show significant effect on the activity of butyrylcholinesterase. CONCLUSION Our findings demonstrated for the first time that IRN could alleviate learning and memory impairments induced by AlCl3 in mice. The neuroprotective effect of IRN against AlCl3-induced AD is probably mediated, at least in part, through inhibiting the AChE activity and reducing the oxidative damage of brain tissue via suppress the NF-κB signaling pathway. These results contributed to a better understanding of the in vivo anti-AD mechanism of IRN. It was concluded that IRN could protect the learning and memory function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Qin Li
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR People’s Republic of China
| | - Siu-Po Ip
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR People’s Republic of China
- Brain Research Centre, School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR People’s Republic of China
| | - Guo-Qing Zheng
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province People’s Republic of China
| | - Yan-Fang Xian
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR People’s Republic of China
- Brain Research Centre, School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhi-Xiu Lin
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR People’s Republic of China
- Brain Research Centre, School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR People’s Republic of China
- Institute of Integrative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR People’s Republic of China
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Guo S, Zhang S, Liu L, Yang P, Dang X, Wei H, Hu N, Shi L, Zhang Y. Pinelliae Rhizoma Praeparatum Involved in the Regulation of Bile Acids Metabolism in Hepatic Injury. Biol Pharm Bull 2018; 41:869-876. [PMID: 29618704 DOI: 10.1248/bpb.b17-00972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Pinelliae Rhizoma Praeparatum (PRP) as traditional Chinese medicine had been used for hepatic diseases in combinative forms. However, the effect of PRP was not clear when used alone. So to explore the hepatoprotective/hepatotoxin of PRP is necessary. The activities of PRP were investigated in acetaminophen-induced hepatic injury mice. Liver function markers, hepatic oxidative stress markers were evaluated. Bile acids metabolic transports and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) were detected. As a drug for the treatment of liver diseases, PRP slightly restored the parameters towards normal in model mice only in low dosage, and also had no antioxidant activity and regulate Nrf2. Cholestasis was significantly elevated in model mice when pretreatment with routine or high dosage of PRP, but had no effect on normal mice. Bile salt export pump (Bsep) and multidrug resistance-associated protein 2 (Mrp2) in model mice were markedly increased when pretreatment with low dose PRP, but significantly decreased when pretreatment in routine or high dosage. Mrp3 was significantly induced in model mice after pretreatment of PRP. But the adjustment effect to bile acids transporters by PRP was not significant in normal mice. These results reveal that PRP has the different effects on bile acids transporter in hepatic injury mice, and therefore, the dosage of PRP need to be paid attention to when it is used in clinical hepatic injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shun Guo
- Department of Pharmacy, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University
| | - Song Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University
| | - Linna Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University
| | - Peng Yang
- Department of Pharmacy, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University
| | - Xueliang Dang
- Department of Pharmacy, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University
| | - Huamei Wei
- Department of Pharmacy, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University
| | - Na Hu
- Department of Pharmacy, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University
| | - Lei Shi
- Department of Pharmacy, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University
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Quantitative Analysis and Biological Efficacies regarding the Neuroprotective and Antineuroinflammatory Actions of the Herbal Formula Jodeungsan in HT22 Hippocampal Cells and BV-2 Microglia. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2017; 2017:6360836. [PMID: 29391873 PMCID: PMC5748148 DOI: 10.1155/2017/6360836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2017] [Revised: 09/07/2017] [Accepted: 10/16/2017] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Jodeungsan (JDS) is a traditional herbal formula that comprises seven medicinal herbs and is broadly utilized to treat hypertension, dementia, and headache. However, the effects of JDS and its herbal components on neurodegenerative diseases have not been reported. We examined the inhibitory effects of JDS and its seven components on neuronal cell death and inflammation using HT22 hippocampal cells and BV-2 microglia, respectively. Among its seven herbal components, Uncaria sinensis (US), Chrysanthemum morifolium (CM), Zingiber officinale (ZO), Pinellia ternata (PT), Citrus unshiu (CU), and Poria cocos (PC) exhibited significant neuroprotective effects in HT22 cells. In BV-2 cells, JDS significantly suppressed the production of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6), indicating the antineuroinflammatory activity of JDS. In addition, the herbal extracts from ZO, Panax ginseng (PG), PT, CU, and PC exhibited inhibitory effects on the inflammatory response in microglia. These data imply that the JDS effect on neurodegeneration occurs via coordination among its seven components. To establish a quality control for JDS, a simultaneous analysis using five standard compounds identified hesperidin (37.892 ± 1.228 mg/g) as the most abundant phytochemical of JDS. Further investigation of the combinatorial activities of two or more standard compounds will be necessary to verify their antineurodegenerative regulatory mechanisms.
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Imai H, Takeshima N, Oda H, Chen P, Sawada E, Furukawa TA. Choto-san versus placebo for patients with dementia: systematic review and meta-analysis. Psychogeriatrics 2017; 17:466-478. [PMID: 28589702 DOI: 10.1111/psyg.12275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2017] [Revised: 03/12/2017] [Accepted: 03/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Choto-san is a traditional medicine used for hypertension and headaches in Japan and China. Some studies have shown its effectiveness in the treatment of dementia. The present review aimed to assess the effectiveness and acceptability of Choto-san in the treatment of adults with cognitive impairment. METHODS We included randomized controlled trials comparing Choto-san with placebo for patients with dementia or mild cognitive impairment. RESULTS Three randomized controlled trials evaluating 219 participants were included. Two were studies on vascular dementia, and the other was on Alzheimer's dementia. There was no difference between Choto-san and placebo in terms of short-term dichotomous judgement of improvement, but Choto-san was more effective than placebo in terms of short-term improvement of cognitive function as measured by continuous outcomes. Also, dropouts judged it to be acceptable. However, the results were imprecise and/or heterogeneous. The number of participants included in the analysis was small (n = 199 in the primary analysis) and sometimes inconsistent, as indicated by the large I 2 (72% in the primary analysis). CONCLUSION Low-quality evidence was suggestive of Choto-san's efficacy for vascular dementia, but the present results may be overestimated. Studies with a larger sample size and conducted over longer periods should be performed. Regardless, Choto-san can be one of the choices for the treatment of vascular dementia as it is well tolerated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hissei Imai
- Health Promotion and Behaviour, Graduate School of Medicine/Public Health, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Nozomi Takeshima
- Health Promotion and Behaviour, Graduate School of Medicine/Public Health, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Haruhiko Oda
- Hyogo Brain and Heart Center, The Institute for Aging Brain and Cognitive Disorders, Himeji, Japan
| | | | - Etsuko Sawada
- Education and Culture, Hokusho University, Ebetsu, Japan
| | - Toshiaki A Furukawa
- Health Promotion and Behaviour, Graduate School of Medicine/Public Health, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
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15
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Components of Goutengsan in Rat Plasma by Microdialysis Sampling and Its Protection on A β1-42-Induced PC12 Cells Injury. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2017; 2017:7593027. [PMID: 28348625 PMCID: PMC5352969 DOI: 10.1155/2017/7593027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2015] [Revised: 02/20/2016] [Accepted: 05/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Goutengsan, a Chinese herbal formula, potential protection on Alzheimer's disease (AD) has been less reported. In current study, we investigated the protection of Goutengsan on Aβ1–42-induced pheochromocytoma-derived cells (PC12). Furthermore, the components from Goutengsan in rat plasma were identified by microdialysis (MD) for in vivo sampling. Meanwhile, the protection of components identified was also verified. At last, we found that Goutengsan has a potential protective effect on Aβ1–42-induced PC12 cells via reducing cells damage and increasing cells vitality as well as six components (pachymic acid, liquiritin, rhynchophylline, isorhynchophylline, corynoxeine, and isocorynoxeine) which may be effective components. This study helps to understand the treatment of Goutengsan for AD and would facilitate the clinical and further studies for this formula.
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Kim NY, Lee HY. Enhancement of Cognitive Functions by Aronia melanocarpa Elliot Through an Intermittent Ultrasonication Extraction Process. J Med Food 2016; 19:245-52. [DOI: 10.1089/jmf.2015.3519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Nam Young Kim
- Department of Medical Biomaterials Engineering, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeon Yong Lee
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, Seowon University, Chungju, Republic of Korea
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17
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Wei M, Chen L, Liu J, Zhao J, Liu W, Feng F. Protective effects of a Chotosan Fraction and its active components on β-amyloid-induced neurotoxicity. Neurosci Lett 2016; 617:143-9. [PMID: 26876445 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2016.02.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2015] [Revised: 01/08/2016] [Accepted: 02/09/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Chotosan (CTS) is a traditional Kampo prescription used to treat chronic headache and hypertension. Recent clinical studies demonstrated that CTS has ameliorative effects on dementia. This study aims to identify the anti-Alzheimer components in CTS. β-amyloid (Aβ) is considered to play a central role in the pathophysiology of Alzheimer's disease. CTS-E, a fraction of CTS, showed significant protective effects on Aβ-induced neurotoxicity. High-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry was used for the qualitative analysis of it. Among the identified constituents, neuroprotective effects against Aβ(25-35)-induced neurotoxicity of 10 major compounds were tested by MTT assay. Their inhibitory action on Aβ(1-42) self-induced aggregation was measured by Thioflavin T-binding assay. The results showed that caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid, 1,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid, 3,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid and 4,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid had significant neuroprotective effects on Aβ(25-35)-induced neurotoxicity. Besides these phenolic acids, nobiletin and hesperidin could also inhibit Aβ(1-42) self-induced aggregation. In conclusion, the neuroprotective fraction, CTS-E, could protect PC12 cells from Aβ-induced neurotoxicity. Anti-oxidative effects may at least partly mediate the neuroprotective effects of it. Phenolic acids from Chrysanthemi Flos and flavonoids from Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium might be the effective constituents in CTS-E.
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Affiliation(s)
- Menglin Wei
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Lei Chen
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Functional Materials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Jiazhuo Liu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Jiaojiao Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Functional Materials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Wenyuan Liu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing 210009, China; Key Laboratory of Drug Quality Control and Pharmacovigilance, Ministry of Education, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing 210009, China.
| | - Feng Feng
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Functional Materials, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China.
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18
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Zhang Y, Sun J, Zhu S, Xu T, Lu J, Han H, Zhou C, Yan J. The role of rhynchophylline in alleviating early brain injury following subarachnoid hemorrhage in rats. Brain Res 2015; 1631:92-100. [PMID: 26631843 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2015.11.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2015] [Revised: 11/20/2015] [Accepted: 11/21/2015] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Rhynchophylline (Rhy) has been demonstrated protective effects on some neurological diseases. However, the roles of Rhy in the subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) are still to be cleared. In the present study, the effects of Rhy on attenuation of early brain injury (EBI) after SAH have been evaluated. The adult male Sprague-Dawley rats (280-300g) were used to establish the SAH models using endovascular perforation method. Rhy was administered by intraperitoneal injection immediately following SAH. Brain edema was assessed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at 24h after SAH. Neurological deficits, brain water content, malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration, myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity and reactive oxygen species (ROS) content in hippocampus were also evaluated. Immunofluorescence and western blot were used to explore the underlying protective mechanism of Rhy. The results showed that, following 10mg/kg Rhy treatment, the brain edema and neurological deficits, and blood-brain barrier (BBB) disruption were significantly attenuated at 24h after SAH. Additionally, in hippocampus, MDA concentration, MPO activity and ROS content were markedly decreased. Meanwhile, the levels of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and NAD(P)H quinone oxidoreductase (NQO-1) were increased, while the expressions of p-p53, cleaved-caspase-3 and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were significantly decreased. Our results indicated that Rhy could attenuate early brain injury by reducing inflammation and apoptosis in hippocampus after SAH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zhang
- Department of Anatomy and Histology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Juan Sun
- Department of Anatomy and Histology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Shijie Zhu
- Department of Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, GuiYang College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, China
| | - Ting Xu
- Department of Anatomy and Histology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Jianfei Lu
- Department of Anatomy and Histology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Hongbin Han
- Department of Radiology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China; Beijing Key Lab of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technology, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Changman Zhou
- Department of Anatomy and Histology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Junhao Yan
- Department of Anatomy and Histology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, China; Beijing Key Lab of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technology, Beijing 100191, China.
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Zhang Q, Zhao JJ, Xu J, Feng F, Qu W. Medicinal uses, phytochemistry and pharmacology of the genus Uncaria. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2015; 173:48-80. [PMID: 26091967 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2015.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2014] [Revised: 05/31/2015] [Accepted: 06/05/2015] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE The genus Uncaria belongs to the family Rubiaceae, which mainly distributed in tropical regions, such as Southeast Asia, Africa and Southeast America. Their leaves and hooks have long been thought to have healing powers and are already being tested as a treatment for asthma, cancer, cirrhosis, diabetes, hypertension, stroke and rheumatism. The present review aims to provide systematically reorganized information on the ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry and pharmacology of the genus Uncaria to support for further therapeutic potential of this genus. To better understanding this genus, information on the stereo-chemistry and structure-activity relationships in indole alkaloids is also represented. MATERIAL AND METHODS The literature study of this review is based on various databases search (SCIFinder, Science Direct, CNKI, Wiley online library, Spring Link, Web of Science, PubMed, Wanfang Data, Medalink, Google scholar, ACS, Tropicos, Council of Heads of Australasian Herbaria, The New York Botanical Garden, African Plants Database at Genera Botanical Garden, The Plant List and SEINet) and library search for Biological Abstract and some local books on ethnopharmacology. RESULTS 19 species of the genus Uncaria are found to be important folk medicines in China, Malaysia, Phillippines, Africa and Southeast America, etc, and have been served for the treatment of asthma, rheumatism, hyperpyrexia, hypertension and headaches, etc. More than 200 compounds have been isolated from Uncaria, including indole alkaloids, triterpenes, flavonoids, phenols, phenylpropanoids, etc. As characteristic constituents, indole alkaloids have been considered as main efficacy component for hypertension, epilepsy, depressant, Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease. In addition, pharmacokinetic and metabolism investigation reveal that the indole alkaloids are likely to be absorbed, metabolized and excreted at early time points. Moreover, the specific inhibition of CYP isozymes can regulate their hydroxylation metabolites at C-10 and C-11. CONCLUSION Preliminary investigations on pharmacological properties of the Uncaria species have enlightened their efficacious remedy for hypertension, asthma, cancer, diabetes, rheumatism and neurodegenerative diseases. To ensure the safety and effectiveness in clinical application, research on bioactive compounds, pharmacological mechanisms and toxicity of the genus Uncaria as well as the stereo-chemistry and structure-activity relationships of indole alkaloids seem very important.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Zhang
- Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Jiao Jiao Zhao
- Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Jian Xu
- Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Feng Feng
- Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
| | - Wei Qu
- Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
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20
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Kim HN, Jang JY, Choi BT. A single fraction from Uncaria sinensis exerts neuroprotective effects against glutamate-induced neurotoxicity in primary cultured cortical neurons. Anat Cell Biol 2015; 48:95-103. [PMID: 26140220 PMCID: PMC4488647 DOI: 10.5115/acb.2015.48.2.95] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2014] [Revised: 01/13/2015] [Accepted: 02/17/2015] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
We identified a neuroprotective single fraction among 62 ones of hexane extract from Uncaria sinensis (JGH43IA) and investigated its effects and mechanisms in primary cortical neurons. Pretreatment with JGH43IA showed a significantly increase cell viability in a dose-dependent manner with a decrease in the lactate dehydrogenase release. When we performed morphological assay and flow cytometry to determination of the type of cell death, pretreatment with JGH43IA showed a significant reduction of glutamate-induced apoptotic cell death. Then we explored the downstream signaling pathways of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) with calpain activation to elucidate possible pathways of neuroprotection by JGH43IA. Pretreatment with JGH43IA exhibited a significant attenuation of NMDAR GluN2B subunit activation and a decrease in active form of calpain 1 leading to subsequent cleavage of striatal-enriched protein tyrosine phosphatase (STEP). In addition, pretreatment with JGH43IA showed a marked increase of cAMP responsive element binding protein. These results suggest that JGH43IA may have neuroprotective effects through down-regulation of NMDAR GluN2B subunit and calpain 1 activation, and subsequent alleviation of STEP cleavage. This single fraction from U. sinensis might be a useful therapeutic agent for brain disorder associated with glutamate injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ha Neui Kim
- Department of Korean Medicine, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Korea
| | - Ji Yeon Jang
- Division of Meridian and Structural Medicine, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Korea
| | - Byung Tae Choi
- Department of Korean Medicine, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Korea. ; Division of Meridian and Structural Medicine, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Korea
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21
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Frequency and co-prescription pattern of Chinese herbal products for hypertension in Taiwan: a Cohort study. Altern Ther Health Med 2015; 15:163. [PMID: 26048045 PMCID: PMC4457084 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-015-0690-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2014] [Accepted: 05/21/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chinese herbal products (CHPs) have been frequently used among patients with chronic diseases including hypertension; however, the co-prescription pattern of herbal formulae and single herbs remain uncharacterized. Thus, this large-scale pharmacoepidemiological study evaluated the frequency and co-prescription pattern of CHPs for treating hypertension in Taiwan from 2003 to 2009. METHODS The database of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) outpatient claims was obtained from the National Health Insurance in Taiwan. Patients with hypertension during study period were defined according to diagnostic codes in the International Classification of Disease Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification. The frequencies and percentages of herbal formula and single herb prescriptions for hypertension were analyzed. We also applied association rules to evaluate the CHPs co-prescription patterns. RESULTS The hypertension cohort included 154,083 patients, 123,240 patients of which (approximately 80 %) had used TCM at least once. In total, 81,582 visits involving CHP prescriptions were hypertension related; Tian-Ma-Gou-Teng-Yin and Dan Shen (Radix Salvia Miltiorrhizae) were the most frequently prescribed herbal formula and single herb, respectively, for treating hypertension. CONCLUSIONS This study elucidated the utilization pattern of CHPs for treating hypertension. Future studies on the efficacy and safety of these CHPs and on drug-herb interactions are warranted.
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Ahmad R, Salim F. Oxindole Alkaloids of Uncaria (Rubiaceae, Subfamily Cinchonoideae). STUDIES IN NATURAL PRODUCTS CHEMISTRY 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-444-63473-3.00012-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Nalivaeva NN, Belyaev ND, Kerridge C, Turner AJ. Amyloid-clearing proteins and their epigenetic regulation as a therapeutic target in Alzheimer's disease. Front Aging Neurosci 2014; 6:235. [PMID: 25278875 PMCID: PMC4166351 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2014.00235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2014] [Accepted: 08/18/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Abnormal elevation of amyloid β-peptide (Aβ) levels in the brain is the primary trigger for neuronal cell death specific to Alzheimer’s disease (AD). It is now evident that Aβ levels in the brain are manipulable due to a dynamic equilibrium between its production from the amyloid precursor protein (APP) and removal by amyloid clearance proteins. Clearance can be either enzymic or non-enzymic (binding/transport proteins). Intriguingly several of the main amyloid-degrading enzymes (ADEs) are members of the M13 peptidase family (neprilysin (NEP), NEP2 and the endothelin converting enzymes (ECE-1 and -2)). A distinct metallopeptidase, insulin-degrading enzyme (IDE), also contributes to Aβ degradation in the brain. The ADE family currently embraces more than 20 members, both membrane-bound and soluble, and of differing cellular locations. NEP plays an important role in brain function terminating neuropeptide signals. Its decrease in specific brain areas with age or after hypoxia, ischaemia or stroke contribute significantly to the development of AD pathology. The recently discovered mechanism of epigenetic regulation of NEP (and other genes) by the APP intracellular domain (AICD) and its dependence on the cell type and APP isoform expression suggest possibilities for selective manipulation of NEP gene expression in neuronal cells. We have also observed that another amyloid-clearing protein, namely transthyretin (TTR), is also regulated in the neuronal cell by a mechanism similar to NEP. Dependence of amyloid clearance proteins on histone deacetylases and the ability of HDAC inhibitors to up-regulate their expression in the brain opens new avenues for developing preventive strategies in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia N Nalivaeva
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds Leed, UK ; I.M.Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Nikolai D Belyaev
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds Leed, UK
| | - Caroline Kerridge
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds Leed, UK ; Neurodegeneration DHT, Lilly, Erl Wood Manor Windlesham, Surrey, UK
| | - Anthony J Turner
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds Leed, UK
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24
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He Y, Zeng SY, Zhou SW, Qian GS, Peng K, Mo ZX, Zhou JY. Effects of rhynchophylline on GluN1 and GluN2B expressions in primary cultured hippocampal neurons. Fitoterapia 2014; 98:166-73. [PMID: 25110195 DOI: 10.1016/j.fitote.2014.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2014] [Revised: 07/28/2014] [Accepted: 08/01/2014] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor subunits GluN1 and GluN2B in hippocampal neurons play key roles in anxiety. Our previous studies show that rhynchophylline, an active component of the Uncaria species, down-regulates GluN2B expression in the hippocampal CA1 area of amphetamine-induced rat. The effects of rhynchophylline on expressions of GluN1 and GluN2B in primary hippocampal neurons in neonatal rats in vitro were investigated. Neonatal hippocampal neurons were cultured with neurobasal-A medium. After incubation for 6h or 48 h with rhynchophylline (non-competitive NMDAR antagonist) and MK-801 (non-competitive NMDAR antagonist with anxiolytic effect, as the control drug) from day 6, neuron toxicity, mRNA and protein expressions of GluN1 and GluN2B were analyzed. GluN1 is mainly distributed on neuronal axons and dendritic trunks, cytoplasm and cell membrane near axons and dendrites. GluN2B is mainly distributed on the membrane, dendrites, and axon membranes. GluN1 and GluN2B are codistributed on dendritic trunks and dendritic spines. After 48 h incubation, a lower concentration of rhynchophylline (lower than 400 μmol/L) and MK-801 (lower than 200 μmol/L) have no toxicity on neonatal hippocampal neurons. Rhynchophylline up-regulated GluN1 mRNA expression at 6h and mRNA and protein expressions at 48h, but down-regulated GluN2B mRNA and protein expressions at 48 h. However, GluN1 and GluN2B mRNA expressions were down-regulated at 6h, and mRNA and protein expressions were both up-regulated by MK-801 at 48h. These findings show that rhynchophylline reciprocally regulates GluN1 and GluN2B expressions in hippocampal neurons, indicating a potential anxiolytic property for rhynchophylline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan He
- National Drug Clinical Trial Institution, Xinqiao Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400037, PR China; College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangdong, Guangzhou 510515, PR China
| | - Sheng-Ya Zeng
- National Drug Clinical Trial Institution, Xinqiao Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400037, PR China
| | - Shi-Wen Zhou
- National Drug Clinical Trial Institution, Xinqiao Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400037, PR China
| | - Gui-Sheng Qian
- Institute of Respiratory Diseases, Xinqiao Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400037, PR China
| | - Kang Peng
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangdong, Guangzhou 510515, PR China
| | - Zhi-Xian Mo
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangdong, Guangzhou 510515, PR China
| | - Ji-Yin Zhou
- National Drug Clinical Trial Institution, Xinqiao Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400037, PR China.
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Wu C, Zhang J, Zhao Y, Chen J, Liu Y. Chinese herbal medicine bushen qinggan formula for blood pressure variability and endothelial injury in hypertensive patients: a randomized controlled pilot clinical trial. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2014; 2014:804171. [PMID: 25028590 PMCID: PMC4083601 DOI: 10.1155/2014/804171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2014] [Revised: 03/12/2014] [Accepted: 03/12/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background. Blood pressure variability (BPV) independent of average blood pressure is related to cardiovascular damage. Meanwhile, BPV is also associated with measures of endothelial injury. Decoction, a traditional used form of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is inconvenient to prepare, carry, and store. Dispensing granules is now developing as an alternative to decoction, but the evidence supporting its clinical efficacy the same as decoction remains unclear. Objective. To examine the therapeutic effects on mean blood pressure (MBP), blood pressure variability, and endothelial function by giving Bushen Qinggan Formula, a compound Chinese Herbal Medicine and also to evaluate the difference in efficacy between decoction and granule. Methods. A total of 150 patients with hypertension were enrolled and randomly assigned to receive the placebo, Bushen Qinggan decoction, or Bushen Qinggan granule in addition to the standard medications (amlodipine-5 mg/d) for the treatment of essential hypertension (EH). The outcome was the reduction in the MBP and BPV and also included changes in the endothelial markers including endothelin-1 (ET-1) and nitric oxide (NO) after 8 weeks of treatment. Results. Compared with the control group, the Bushen Qinggan decoction and granule groups had significant improvement (P < 0.01) in BPV and endothelial founction. The level of BPV and endothelial function between decoction and granule group had no significant difference (P > 0.05). Conclusion. Based on the standard treatment, Bushen Qinggan Formula further improved BPV and endothelial function. The efficacy of Bushen Qinggan decoction and granule is similar in improving BPV and endothelial function. However, no significant antihypertensive effects could be demonstrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunxiao Wu
- Cardiovascular Diseases Center, Xiyuan Hospital of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100091, China
- China Heart Institute of Chinese Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100091, China
| | - Jingchun Zhang
- Cardiovascular Diseases Center, Xiyuan Hospital of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100091, China
- China Heart Institute of Chinese Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100091, China
| | - Yingke Zhao
- Cardiovascular Diseases Center, Xiyuan Hospital of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100091, China
- China Heart Institute of Chinese Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100091, China
| | - Jing Chen
- Cardiovascular Diseases Center, Xiyuan Hospital of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100091, China
- China Heart Institute of Chinese Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100091, China
| | - Yue Liu
- Cardiovascular Diseases Center, Xiyuan Hospital of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100091, China
- China Heart Institute of Chinese Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100091, China
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Jang JY, Choi YW, Kim HN, Kim YR, Hong JW, Bae DW, Park SJ, Shin HK, Choi BT. Neuroprotective effects of a novel single compound 1-methoxyoctadecan-1-ol isolated from Uncaria sinensis in primary cortical neurons and a photothrombotic ischemia model. PLoS One 2014; 9:e85322. [PMID: 24416390 PMCID: PMC3885700 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0085322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2013] [Accepted: 11/25/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
We identified a novel neuroprotective compound, 1-methoxyoctadecan-1-ol, from Uncaria sinensis (Oliv.) Havil and investigated its effects and mechanisms in primary cortical neurons and in a photothrombotic ischemic model. In primary rat cortical neurons against glutamate-induced neurotoxicity, pretreatment with 1-methoxyoctadecan-1-ol resulted in significantly reduced neuronal death in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, treatment with 1-methoxyoctadecan-1-ol resulted in decreased neuronal apoptotic death, as assessed by nuclear morphological approaches. To clarify the neuroprotective mechanism of 1-methoxyoctadecan-1-ol, we explored the downstream signaling pathways of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) with calpain activation. Treatment with glutamate leads to early activation of NMDAR, which in turn leads to calpain-mediated cleavage of striatal-enriched protein tyrosine phosphatase (STEP) and subsequent activation of p38 mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK). However, pretreatment with 1-methoxyoctadecan-1-ol resulted in significantly attenuated activation of GluN2B-NMDAR and a decrease in calpain-mediated STEP cleavage, leading to subsequent attenuation of p38 MAPK activation. We confirmed the critical role of p38 MAPK in neuroprotective effects of 1-methoxyoctadecan-1-ol using specific inhibitor SB203580. In the photothrombotic ischemic injury in mice, treatment with 1-methoxyoctadecan-1-ol resulted in significantly reduced infarct volume, edema size, and improved neurological function. 1-methoxyoctadecan-1-ol effectively prevents cerebral ischemic damage through down-regulation of calpain-mediated STEP cleavage and activation of p38 MAPK. These results suggest that 1-methoxyoctadecan-1-ol showed neuroprotective effects through down-regulation of calpain-mediated STEP cleavage with activation of GluN2B-NMDAR, and subsequent alleviation of p38 MAPK activation. In addition, 1-methoxyoctadecan-1-ol might be a useful therapeutic agent for brain disorder such as ischemic stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Yeon Jang
- Division of Meridian and Structural Medicine, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Gyeongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Whan Choi
- Department of Horticultural Bioscience, College of Natural Resource and Life Science, Pusan National University, Miryang, Gyeongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Ha Neui Kim
- Department of Korean Medical Science, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Gyeongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Yu Ri Kim
- Department of Korean Medical Science, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Gyeongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Woo Hong
- Division of Clinical Medicine 1, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Gyeongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong Won Bae
- Central Instrument Facility, Biomaterial Analytical Lab., Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Gyeongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Se Jin Park
- Department of Horticultural Bioscience, College of Natural Resource and Life Science, Pusan National University, Miryang, Gyeongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Hwa Kyoung Shin
- Division of Meridian and Structural Medicine, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Gyeongnam, Republic of Korea
- * E-mail: (BTC); (HKS)
| | - Byung Tae Choi
- Division of Meridian and Structural Medicine, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Gyeongnam, Republic of Korea
- Department of Korean Medical Science, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Gyeongnam, Republic of Korea
- * E-mail: (BTC); (HKS)
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Biologically Active Compounds from the Genus Uncaria (Rubiaceae). STUDIES IN NATURAL PRODUCTS CHEMISTRY 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-444-63430-6.00013-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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The ethnobotanical, phytochemical and pharmacological profile of the genus Pinellia. Fitoterapia 2013; 93:1-17. [PMID: 24370664 DOI: 10.1016/j.fitote.2013.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2013] [Revised: 12/09/2013] [Accepted: 12/16/2013] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The genus Pinellia (Araceae), consisting of nine species, is mainly distributed in Eastern Asia. In traditional medicine, some Pinellia species have long been used for the treatment of various ailments, such as cough, vomiting, inflammation, epilepsy, cervical cancer and traumatic injury. Pharmacological studies revealed that Pinellia species possess a wide range of biological activities including cytotoxic, anti-tumor, antiemetic, insecticidal, antitussive, antimicrobial and anticonvulsant activities. However, some species also showed significant toxicity such as reproductive toxicity, mucosal irritation and hepatotoxicity. Most of these bioactivities and toxicity can be explained by the presence of various alkaloids and lectins. This review summarizes the ethnopharmacological uses, phytochemical constituents, pharmacological activities and toxicity of Pinellia species.
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Zhao Q, Niu Y, Matsumoto K, Tsuneyama K, Tanaka K, Miyata T, Yokozawa T. Chotosan ameliorates cognitive and emotional deficits in an animal model of type 2 diabetes: possible involvement of cholinergic and VEGF/PDGF mechanisms in the brain. Altern Ther Health Med 2012; 12:188. [PMID: 23082896 PMCID: PMC3564934 DOI: 10.1186/1472-6882-12-188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2012] [Accepted: 10/18/2012] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diabetes is one of the risk factors for cognitive deficits such as Alzheimer's disease. To obtain a better understanding of the anti-dementia effect of chotosan (CTS), a Kampo formula, we investigated its effects on cognitive and emotional deficits of type 2 diabetic db/db mice and putative mechanism(s) underlying the effects. METHODS Seven-week-old db/db mice received daily administration of CTS (375 - 750 mg/kg, p.o.) and the reference drug tacrine (THA: 2.5 mg/kg, i.p.) during an experimental period of 7 weeks. From the age of 9-week-old, the animals underwent the novel object recognition test, the modified Y-maze test, and the water maze test to elucidate cognitive performance and the elevated plus maze test to elucidate anxiety-related behavior. After completing behavioral studies, Western blotting and immunohistochemical studies were conducted. RESULTS Compared with age-matched non-diabetic control strain (m/m) mice, db/db mice exhibited impaired cognitive performance and an increased level of anxiety. CTS ameliorated cognitive and emotional deficits of db/db mice, whereas THA improved only cognitive performance. The phosphorylated levels of Akt and PKCα in the hippocampus were significantly lower and higher, respectively, in db/db mice than in m/m mice. Expression levels of the hippocampal cholinergic marker proteins and the number of the septal cholinergic neurons were also reduced in db/db mice compared with those in m/m mice. Moreover, the db/db mice had significantly reduced levels of vasculogenesis/angiogenesis factors, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), VEGF receptor type 2, platelet-derived growth factor-B, and PDGF receptor β, in the hippocampus. CTS and THA treatment reversed these neurochemical and histological alterations caused by diabetes. CONCLUSION These results suggest that CTS ameliorates diabetes-induced cognitive deficits by protecting central cholinergic and VEGF/PDGF systems via Akt signaling pathway and that CTS exhibits the anxiolytic effect via neuronal mechanism(s) independent of cholinergic or VEGF/PDGF systems in db/db mice.
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Zhou JY, Zhou SW. Isorhynchophylline: A plant alkaloid with therapeutic potential for cardiovascular and central nervous system diseases. Fitoterapia 2012; 83:617-26. [PMID: 22406453 DOI: 10.1016/j.fitote.2012.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2011] [Revised: 02/20/2012] [Accepted: 02/22/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Uncaria species (Gouteng in Chinese) have been used as a plant medicine to treat ailments of cardiovascular and central nervous systems. As the main alkaloid constituent of Uncaria species, isorhynchophylline has drawn extensive attention toward antihypertensive and neuroprotective activities in recent years. Isorhynchophylline mainly acts on cardiovascular and central nervous systems diseases including hypertension, brachycardia, arrhythmia, and sedation, vascular dementia, and amnesia. Isorhynchophylline also has effects on anticoagulation, inhibition vascular smooth muscle cell apoptosis and proliferation, anti-multidrug resistant of lung cells, anti-endotoxemic, and antispasmodic. The active mechanisms are related to modulation on calcium ion channel, protection neural and neuroglial cells against β-amyloid(25-35)-induced neurotoxicity and via inducing autophagy. As a candidate drug of several cardiovascular and central nervous systems diseases, isorhynchophylline will attract scientists to pursue the potential related pharmacological effects and its mechanism with new technologies. But relatively few clinical application of isorhynchophylline has been conducted on its pharmacological activities. It requires more in vivo validations and further investigations of antihypertensive and neuroprotective mechanisms of isorhynchophylline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Yin Zhou
- Base for Drug Clinical Trial, Xinqiao Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400037, China
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Song Y, Qu R, Zhu S, Zhang R, Ma S. Rhynchophylline attenuates LPS-induced pro-inflammatory responses through down-regulation of MAPK/NF-κB signaling pathways in primary microglia. Phytother Res 2012; 26:1528-33. [PMID: 22322985 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.4614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2011] [Accepted: 01/09/2012] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Excessive activation of microglial cells has been implicated in various types of neuroinflammation. Suppression of microglial activation would have therapeutic benefits, leading to the alleviation of the progression of neurodegeneration. In this study, the inhibitory effects of rhynchophylline (RIN), a tetracyclic oxindole alkaloid component isolated from Uncaria rhynchophylla (Miq.) Jacks., on the production of pro-inflammatory mediators were investigated in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated microglia. The results showed that RIN markedly reduced the production of nitric oxide (NO), prostaglandins E(2) (PGE(2) ), monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP-1), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) in LPS-activated microglia. The mRNA expression levels of iNOS and COX-2 were also depressed by RIN in a concentration-dependent manner. Further studies revealed that RIN blocked IκBα phosphorylation and degradation, inhibited the phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs). In summary, these data suggest that RIN suppresses inflammatory responses of microglia and may act as a potential therapeutic agent for various neurodegenerative diseases involving neuroinflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Song
- Department of Pharmacology of Chinese Materia Medica, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, PR China
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Protective Effect of Isorhynchophylline Against β-Amyloid-Induced Neurotoxicity in PC12 Cells. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2011; 32:353-60. [DOI: 10.1007/s10571-011-9763-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2011] [Accepted: 10/10/2011] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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33
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Iwanaga K, Yoneda S, Hamahata Y, Miyazaki M, Shibano M, Taniguchi M, Baba K, Kakemi M. Inhibitory Effects of Furanocoumarin Derivatives in Kampo Extract Medicines on P-Glycoprotein at the Blood-Brain Barrier. Biol Pharm Bull 2011; 34:1246-51. [DOI: 10.1248/bpb.34.1246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kazunori Iwanaga
- Division of Pharmaceutics, Osaka University of Pharmaceutical Sciences
| | - Shinji Yoneda
- Division of Pharmaceutics, Osaka University of Pharmaceutical Sciences
| | - Yukimi Hamahata
- Division of Pharmaceutics, Osaka University of Pharmaceutical Sciences
| | - Makoto Miyazaki
- Division of Pharmaceutics, Osaka University of Pharmaceutical Sciences
| | - Makio Shibano
- Division of Pharmacognosy, Osaka University of Pharmaceutical Sciences
| | | | - Kimiye Baba
- Division of Pharmacognosy, Osaka University of Pharmaceutical Sciences
| | - Masawo Kakemi
- Division of Pharmaceutics, Osaka University of Pharmaceutical Sciences
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Iwanaga K, Hayashi M, Hamahata Y, Miyazaki M, Shibano M, Taniguchi M, Baba K, Kakemi M. Furanocoumarin derivatives in Kampo extract medicines inhibit cytochrome P450 3A4 and P-glycoprotein. Drug Metab Dispos 2010; 38:1286-94. [PMID: 20463004 DOI: 10.1124/dmd.110.032847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Furanocoumarins in grapefruit are known to show inhibitory effects against P-glycoprotein (P-gp) and CYP3A4 in intestinal epithelial cells; however, furanocoumarin derivatives are widely contained in the plants of Rutaceae and Umbelliferae families, which are used as components of Kampo extract medicines. In this study, we investigated the inhibitory effects of 12 furanocoumarins extracted from plants in the Umbelliferae family against P-gp and CYP3A4 activity. Furthermore, we studied their inhibitory effect on P-gp when furanocoumarins are used as Kampo extract medicine rather than as an isolated single compound. From screening of the CYP3A4 inhibitory effect, notopterol and rivulobirin A, the only dimer types of furanocoumarin, were found to be potent inhibitors of CYP3A4. On the other hand, byakangelicol and rivulobirin A showed strong P-gp inhibition from the screening of P-gp inhibitor evaluated by quinidine permeation through the Caco-2 monolayer; however, the chemical structural relationship of furanocoumarins between P-gp and CYP3A4 inhibitory effects could not be obtained. We also investigated the effect of these furanocoumarins on the transport of digoxin through the Caco-2 monolayer. The inhibitory effect of rivulobirin A was more potent than that of byakangelicol. Application of either Senkyu-cha-cho-san or Sokei-kakketsu-to, which are composed of herbal remedies in the Umbelliferae group, significantly decreased the efflux ratio of digoxin. In conclusion, it was found that some furanocoumarins extracted from the plants in the Umbelliferae family strongly inhibited P-gp and CYP3A4. Kampo extract medicines containing herbal remedies belonging to the Umbelliferae family may cause a drug-drug interaction with P-gp or a CYP3A4 substrate drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazunori Iwanaga
- Division of Pharmaceutics, Osaka University of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Takatsuki-city, Osaka, Japan.
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Zhang F, Sun AS, Yu LM, Wu Q, Gong QH. Effects of isorhynchophylline on angiotensin II-induced proliferation in rat vascular smooth muscle cells. J Pharm Pharmacol 2010. [DOI: 10.1211/jpp.60.12.0014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
Proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) is a crucial event in cardiovascular diseases. Isorhynchophylline, an alkaloid from a traditional Chinese medicine Gambirplant, has been used to treat cardiovascular diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of isorhynchophylline on angiotensin II (Ang II)-induced proliferation of rat VSMCs. VSMCs were isolated from rat artery and cultured for 14 days before experimentation. The effect of isorhynchophylline on Ang II-induced proliferation was evaluated by cell number, MTT assay and flow cytometry, and nitric oxide (NO) content and activity of NO synthase (NOS) were measured. The expression of proto-oncogene c-fos, osteopontin (OPN) and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) mRNAs was measured by real-time RT-PCR. VSMC cultures were verified by morphology and immunostaining with α-smooth muscle actin. Isorhynchophylline (0.1–10.0 μM) was not toxic to VSMCs, but markedly decreased Ang II (1.0 μm)-enhanced cell number and MTT intensity, and blocked cell transition from G0/G1 to S phase. Furthermore, isorhynchophylline increased the NO content and NOS activity, and suppressed Ang II-induced over-expression of c-fos, OPN and PCNA. Thus, isorhynchophylline was effective against Ang-II induced cell proliferation, an effect that appears to be due, at least in part, to increased NO production, regulation of the cell cycle, and depressed expression of c-fos, OPN and PCNA related to VMSC proliferation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, Zunyi Medical College, Zunyi, 563000, China
| | - An-Sheng Sun
- Department of Pharmacology, Zunyi Medical College, Zunyi, 563000, China
| | - Li-Mei Yu
- Department of Pharmacology, Zunyi Medical College, Zunyi, 563000, China
| | - Qin Wu
- Department of Pharmacology, Zunyi Medical College, Zunyi, 563000, China
| | - Qi-Hai Gong
- Department of Pharmacology, Zunyi Medical College, Zunyi, 563000, China
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Yuan D, Ma B, Yang JY, Xie YY, Wang L, Zhang LJ, Kano Y, Wu CF. Anti-inflammatory effects of rhynchophylline and isorhynchophylline in mouse N9 microglial cells and the molecular mechanism. Int Immunopharmacol 2009; 9:1549-54. [PMID: 19781666 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2009.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2009] [Revised: 09/04/2009] [Accepted: 09/15/2009] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Excessive production of nitric oxide (NO) and proinflammatory cytokines from activated microglia contributes to human neurodegenerative disorders. Our previous study demonstrated the potent inhibition of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced NO production in rat primary microglial cells by rhynchophylline (RIN) and isorhynchophylline (IRN), a pair of isomeric alkaloids of Uncaria rhynchophylla (Miq.) Jacks. that has been used in China for centuries as a "cognitive enhancer" as well as to treat strokes. We further investigated whether RIN and IRN effectively suppress release of proinflammatory cytokines in LPS-activated microglial cells and the underling molecular mechanism for the inhibition of microglial activation. RIN and IRN concentration-dependently attenuated LPS-induced production of proinflammatory cytokines such as TNF-alpha and IL-1beta as well as NO in mouse N9 microglial cells, with IRN showing more potent inhibition of microglial activation. The western blotting analysis indicated that the potential molecular mechanism for RIN or IRN-mediated attenuation was implicated in suppressions of iNOS protein level, phosphorylation of ERK and p38 MAPKs, and degradation of IkappaBalpha. In addition, the differential regulation of the three signaling pathways by two isomers was shown. Our results suggest that RIN and IRN may be effective therapeutic candidates for use in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases accompanied by microglial activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Yuan
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Rd., Shenyang, 110016, China
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May BH, Lit M, Xue CCL, Yang AWH, Zhang AL, Owens MD, Head R, Cobiac L, Li CG, Hugel H, Story DF. Herbal medicine for dementia: a systematic review. Phytother Res 2009; 23:447-59. [DOI: 10.1002/ptr.2656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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38
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Obi R, Tohda M, Zhao Q, Obi N, Hori H, Murakami Y, Goto H, Shimada Y, Ochiai H, Matsumoto K. Chotosan enhances macrophage colony-stimulating factor mRNA expression in the ischemic rat brain and C6Bu-1 glioma cells. Biol Pharm Bull 2008; 30:2250-6. [PMID: 18057707 DOI: 10.1248/bpb.30.2250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Macrophage colony stimulating factor (M-CSF) is a cytokine which has been recently reported to have a neuroprotective effect on ischemic rat brain. In this study, we investigated the effect of chotosan, an oriental medicine, which has been clinically demonstrated to be effective for the treatment of vascular dementia, on M-CSF gene expression in rats with permanent occlusion of bilateral common carotid arteries (P2VO) in vivo and in a C6Bu-1 glioma cell line in vitro. The expression level of M-CSF mRNA in the cerebral cortices of P2VO rats was significantly higher than that in the cerebral cortices of sham-operated animals. Repeated treatment of P2VO rats with chotosan (75 mg/kg per day) for 4 d after P2VO significantly increased the expression level of M-CSF mRNA in the cortex but it had no effect on the expression of beta-actin, granulocyte colony stimulating factor (G-CSF), granulocyte/macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF) mRNAs. Moreover, the present in vitro studies revealed that chotosan treatment (10-100 mug/ml) of C6Bu-1 glioma cells dose-dependently enhanced M-CSF mRNA expression without affecting the expression of G-CSF, GM-CSF, and inducible nitric oxide synthase mRNAs. The effect of chotosan was reversed by Ro 31-8220 (1 muM), a selective protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitor, but not by H-89 (10 muM), a selective protein kinase A (PKA) inhibitor. These findings suggest that the upregulatory effect of chotosan on M-CSF mRNA expression involves PKC and may play an important role in the anti-vascular dementia action of this formula.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryosuke Obi
- Department of Japanese Oriental Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toyama, Sugitani 2630, Toyama 930-0194, Japan
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Zhao Q, Murakami Y, Tohda M, Obi R, Shimada Y, Matsumoto K. Chotosan, a kampo formula, ameliorates chronic cerebral hypoperfusion-induced deficits in object recognition behaviors and central cholinergic systems in mice. J Pharmacol Sci 2007; 103:360-73. [PMID: 17409635 DOI: 10.1254/jphs.fp0061457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
We previously demonstrated that the Kampo formula chotosan (CTS) ameliorated spatial cognitive impairment via central cholinergic systems in a chronic cerebral hypoperfusion (P2VO) mouse model. In this study, the object discrimination tasks were used to determine if the ameliorative effects of CTS on P2VO-induced cognitive deficits are a characteristic pharmacological profile of this formula, with the aim of clarifying the mechanisms by which CTS enhances central cholinergic function in P2VO mice. The cholinesterase inhibitor tacrine (THA) and Kampo formula saikokeishito (SKT) were used as controls. P2VO impaired object discrimination performance in the object recognition, location, and context tests. Daily administration of CTS (750 mg/kg, p.o.) and THA (2.5 mg/kg, i.p.) improved the object discrimination deficits, whereas SKT (750 mg/kg, p.o.) did not. In ex vivo assays, tacrine but not CTS or SKT inhibited cortical cholinesterase activity. P2VO reduced the mRNA expression of m(3) and m(5) muscarinic receptors and choline acetyltransferase but not that of other muscarinic receptor subtypes in the cerebral cortex. Daily administration of CTS and THA but not SKT reversed these expression changes. These results suggest that CTS and THA improve P2VO-induced cognitive impairment by normalizing the deficit of central cholinergic systems and that the beneficial effect on P2VO-induced cognitive deficits is a distinctive pharmacological characteristic of CTS.
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MESH Headings
- Acetylcholinesterase/genetics
- Actins/genetics
- Animals
- Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal/pharmacology
- Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal/therapeutic use
- Brain Ischemia/complications
- Cerebral Cortex/drug effects
- Cerebral Cortex/metabolism
- Cerebrovascular Circulation/drug effects
- Choline O-Acetyltransferase/genetics
- Cholinergic Fibers/drug effects
- Cholinergic Fibers/pathology
- Cholinesterase Inhibitors/pharmacology
- Chronic Disease
- Cognition Disorders/etiology
- Cognition Disorders/prevention & control
- Discrimination, Psychological/drug effects
- Drugs, Chinese Herbal/pharmacology
- Exploratory Behavior/drug effects
- Male
- Medicine, Kampo
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred ICR
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- Receptors, Muscarinic/genetics
- Recognition, Psychology/drug effects
- Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction
- Tacrine/pharmacology
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Zhao
- Division of Medicinal Pharmacology, Institute of Natural Medicine, University of Toyama, Sugitani, Japan
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Zhao Q, Murakami Y, Tohda M, Watanabe H, Matsumoto K. Preventive effect of chotosan, a Kampo medicine, on transient ischemia-induced learning deficit is mediated by stimulation of muscarinic M1 but not nicotinic receptor. Biol Pharm Bull 2006; 28:1873-8. [PMID: 16204938 DOI: 10.1248/bpb.28.1873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
We have previously shown using a water maze task that transient 2 vessel occlusion (T2VO) induced learning deficit in mice and that the deficit was prevented by pre-treatment of mice with chotosan, a Kampo prescription. In this study, we investigated the mechanism underlying the preventive effect of chotosan on T2VO-induced learning deficit. Chotosan administration 1 h before T2VO operation prevented learning impairment. The extract of Uncaria, a major constituent of chotosan, also had a protective effect on learning impairment in T2VO mice, whereas Uncaria-free chotosan had no beneficial effect on maze performance of T2VO mice. The ameliorative effect of chotosan was blocked by pirenzepine, a muscarinic M1 antagonist, but not by mecamylamine, a nicotinic receptor antagonist. Acetylcholine (ACh) content in the hippocampus of T2VO mice was significantly lower than that in the hippocampus of sham-operated control mice. Chotosan and Uncaria administration attenuated T2VO-induced reduction of ACh levels in the brain. These results suggest that the preventive effect of chotosan on transient ischemia-induced learning impairment is mainly attributable to the effect of Uncaria and that the ameliorative effect is mediated by stimulation of muscarinic M1 receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Zhao
- Division of Medicinal Pharmacology, Institute of Natural Medicine, Toyama Medical and Pharmaceutical University; 2630 Sugitani, Toyama 930-0194, Japan
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41
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Weecharangsan W, Opanasopit P, Sukma M, Ngawhirunpat T, Sotanaphun U, Siripong P. Antioxidative and neuroprotective activities of extracts from the fruit hull of mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana Linn.). Med Princ Pract 2006; 15:281-7. [PMID: 16763395 DOI: 10.1159/000092991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2005] [Accepted: 10/20/2005] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to investigate the antioxidative and neuroprotective activities of various extracts from the fruit hull of mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana Linn., GM). MATERIALS AND METHODS Four extracts: water, 50% ethanol, 95% ethanol and ethyl acetate, were used. The antioxidative activity was evaluated using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl free-radical scavenging assay at extract concentrations of 1, 10, 50 and 100 microg/ml. Based on the free radical scavenging activity of the extracts, two (water and 50% ethanol) were selected for their protective activity in NG108-15 neuroblastoma cells against H(2)O(2)-induced oxidative stress and for cell viability using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. RESULTS All extracts exhibited antioxidative activity. The water and 50% ethanol extracts showed high free-radical scavenging activity with IC(50) values of 34.98 +/- 2.24 and 30.76 +/- 1.66 microg/ml, respectively. Both water and 50% ethanol extracts exhibited neuroprotective activity on NG108-15 cells. The highest activity was observed at the concentration of 50 microg/ml for both the water and 50% ethanol extracts. For cytotoxicity test, none of the extracts was toxic to the cells except at the high concentration of 100 microg/ml. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that the water and 50% ethanol extracts from the fruit hull of GM may be potent neuroprotectants.
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Murakami Y, Zhao Q, Harada K, Tohda M, Watanabe H, Matsumoto K. Choto-san, a Kampo formula, improves chronic cerebral hypoperfusion-induced spatial learning deficit via stimulation of muscarinic M1 receptor. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2005; 81:616-25. [PMID: 15936808 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2005.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2004] [Revised: 04/25/2005] [Accepted: 05/03/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
A recent double-blind and placebo-controlled study demonstrated a beneficial effect of Choto-san, a Kampo (traditional medicine of Japan) formula, on cognitive impairment in patients with vascular dementia. However, the neuronal mechanism underlying the therapeutic effects of this formula remains to be clarified. Using a chronic cerebral hypoperfusion model, we investigated the effect of Choto-san on cognitive dysfunction in mice to clarify its mechanism of actions. Chronic cerebral hypoperfusion was induced by permanent occlusion of both the common carotid arteries (2VO). Choto-san and Uncaria, a major constituent of Choto-san, caused an improvement in 2VO-induced learning deficits, whereas Uncaria-free Choto-san did not. The effects of Choto-san and Uncaria were blocked by pirenzepine, a selective muscarinic M1 antagonist. In a tube-dominance test, 2VO induced increased rates of assertive behavior in mice. 2VO mice administered Choto-san showed significantly reduced rates of assertive behavior compared to vehicle-treated controls, whereas Uncaria-free Choto-san and Uncaria had little effect on 2VO-induced assertive behavior. 2VO caused a significant decrease in the level of acetylcholine (ACh) contents in the brain, and the daily administration of Choto-san or Uncaria raised the ACh level to that in the sham-operated controls. These results suggest that Choto-san has an ameliorating effect on the spatial memory deficit caused by chronic hypoperfusion, and that the effect is mainly attributable to Uncaria. Moreover, it was suggested that the effects of Choto-san and Uncaria are at least partly mediated by stimulation of the muscarinic M1 receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yukihisa Murakami
- Division of Medicinal Pharmacology, Institute of Natural Medicine, Toyama Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Japan
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Hayashi H, Tohda M, Watanabe H, Murakami Y, Matsumoto K. The effects of Choto-san on the mRNA expression of Alzheimer's disease related factors in the permanent ischemic rat brain. Biol Pharm Bull 2005; 28:744-6. [PMID: 15802822 DOI: 10.1248/bpb.28.744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Choto-san is a Kampo medicines that has been used clinically for the treatment of dementia. We measured the mRNA expressions of some factors related to Alzheimer's disease in a dementia model rat brain. The expressions of beta-amyloid precursor protein, gamma-secretase, alpha7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor, neprilysin, and insulin degrading enzyme (IDE) were significantly increased on day 4 after permanent occlusion of the bilateral common carotid arteries (2VO). Choto-san inhibited the enhancement of IDE expression caused by 2VO, although it failed to show any effects on the expressions of the other molecules. These results suggest that Choto-san may produce a state in which it is not necessary to induce IDE expression to demonstrate the anti-dementia effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hisae Hayashi
- Division of Medicinal Pharmacology, Institute of Natural Medicine, Toyama Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Japan
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44
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Hou WC, Lin RD, Chen CT, Lee MH. Monoamine oxidase B (MAO-B) inhibition by active principles from Uncaria rhynchophylla. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2005; 100:216-20. [PMID: 15890481 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2005.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2004] [Revised: 01/18/2005] [Accepted: 03/26/2005] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Attenuation of monoamine oxidase B (MAO-B) activity may provide protection against oxidative neurodegeneration. For this reason, inhibition of MAO-B activity is used as part of the treatment of Parkinson's and Alzheimer's patients. The hook of Uncaria rhynchophylla (Miq.) Jacks. (Rubiaceae) is a traditional Chinese herbal drug that is generally used to treat convulsive disorders. In this study, the fractionation and purification of Uncaria rhynchophylla extracts using a bioguided assay isolated two known compounds, (+)-catechin and (-)-epicatechin. The compounds inhibited MAO-B, as measured by an assay of rat brain MAO-B separated by electrophoresis on a 7.5% native polyacrylamide gel. The IC(50) values of (+)-catechin and (-)-epicatechin were 88.6 and 58.9 microM, respectively, and inhibition occurred in a dose-dependent manner, as measured by the fluorescence method. The Lineweaver-Burk plot revealed K(i) values for (+)-catechin and (-)-epicatechin of 74 and 21 microM, respectively. This suggests that these two compounds, isolated here for the first time from Uncaria rhynchophylla, might be able to protect against neurodegeneration in vitro, and, therefore, the molecular mechanism deserves further study. This finding may also increase interest in the health benefits of Uncaria rhynchophylla.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Chi Hou
- Graduate Institute of Pharmacognosy, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wu-Hsing Street, Taipei 110, Taiwan
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45
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Hussein G, Nakamura M, Zhao Q, Iguchi T, Goto H, Sankawa U, Watanabe H. Antihypertensive and neuroprotective effects of astaxanthin in experimental animals. Biol Pharm Bull 2005; 28:47-52. [PMID: 15635162 DOI: 10.1248/bpb.28.47] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Astaxanthin is a natural antioxidant carotenoid that occurs in a wide variety of living organisms. We investigated, for the first time, antihypertensive effects of astaxanthin (ASX-O) in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). Oral administration of ASX-O for 14 d induced a significant reduction in the arterial blood pressure (BP) in SHR but not in normotensive Wistar Kyoto (WKY) strain. The long-term administration of ASX-O (50 mg/kg) for 5 weeks in stroke prone SHR (SHR-SP) induced a significant reduction in the BP. It also delayed the incidence of stroke in the SHR-SP. To investigate the action mechanism of ASX-O, the effects on PGF(2alpha)-induced contractions of rat aorta treated with NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) were studied in vitro. ASX-O (1 to 10 microM) induced vasorelaxation mediated by nitric oxide (NO). The results suggest that the antihypertensive effect of ASX-O may be due to a NO-related mechanism. ASX-O also showed significant neuroprotective effects in ischemic mice, presumably due to its antioxidant potential. Pretreatment of the mice with ASX-O significantly shortened the latency of escaping onto the platform in the Morris water maze learning performance test. In conclusion, these results indicate that astaxanthin can exert beneficial effects in protection against hypertension and stroke and in improving memory in vascular dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghazi Hussein
- International Research Center for Traditional Medicine, Toyama Prefecture, Japan.
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Zhang ZJ. Therapeutic effects of herbal extracts and constituents in animal models of psychiatric disorders. Life Sci 2004; 75:1659-99. [PMID: 15268969 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2004.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 210] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2003] [Accepted: 04/07/2004] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
A search for novel pharmacotherapy from medicinal plants for psychiatric illnesses has progressed significantly in the past decade. This is reflected in the large number of herbal preparations for which psychotherapeutic potential has been evaluated in a variety of animal models. The objective of this review is to provide an overview of herbal extracts and constituents that have significant therapeutic effects in animal models of psychiatric illnesses. Eighty five individual herbs reviewed were classified as anxiolytic, antidepressant, neuroleptic, antidementia, or anti-substance abuse herbs. The full scientific name of each herb, herbal part used, active constituent, extract, dose range and route, animal model, possible mechanisms of action, and pertinent references are presented via synoptic tables. The herbal mixtures were also mentioned. A considerable number of herbal constituents whose behavioral effects and pharmacological actions have been well characterized may be good candidates for further investigations that may ultimately result in clinical use. The investigation of a large portion of the herbal extracts and herbal mixtures is in its infancy. Herbal remedies that have demonstrable psychotherapeutic activities have provided a potential to psychiatric pharmaceuticals and deserve increased attention in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhang-Jin Zhang
- Department of Psychiatry, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA.
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Ha KT, Lee TK, Kwak KH, Kim JK, Kim DI, Choi DY, Kim CH. Inhibitory effect of Cho-Deung-San on human aortic smooth muscle cell migration induced by TNF-α through inhibition of matrix metalloproteinase-2 and -9 activity. Vascul Pharmacol 2004; 41:83-90. [PMID: 15380733 DOI: 10.1016/j.vph.2004.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2004] [Revised: 05/12/2004] [Accepted: 05/12/2004] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The migration and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) production of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) may play a key role in the development of atherosclerosis. A Korean traditional herbal formulation, Cho-Deung-San (CDS), which is composed of 11 herbal ingredients, has been used to treat vascular diseases for many centuries. In this study, we investigated the inhibitory effect of CDS on tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha)-induced human aortic smooth muscle cells (HASMC) migration and MMP-2 and -9 activity. The cytotoxocity of CDS on HASMC was very low (IC(50)>500 microg/ml) as measured by the XTT assay method. The Matrigel migration assay showed that CDS effectively inhibited the TNF-alpha-induced migration of HASMC as compared with the control group in a dose-dependent manner (IC(50)=85 microg/ml). To explain this inhibitory effect, the extracts prepared from CDS and its herbal ingredients were assayed for gelatin zymography. The results showed that CDS inhibited MMP-2 and -9 activity (IC(50)=180 and 75 microg/ml, respectively). Among the herbal ingredients of CDS, the hooks and stems of Uncaria sinensis (Oliv.) Havil (UR) has shown significant inhibition against MMP-2 and -9 activity. In addition, the inhibitory effect of UR against gelatinolytic activity of MMP-2 and -9 was higher than that of catechin and lower than that of epigallocatechin gallate. These results suggest that CDS could be used as potential antiatherosclerotic agent, and UR is major component of CDS for antimigration in TNF-alpha treated HASMC.
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MESH Headings
- Aorta/pathology
- Catechin/chemistry
- Catechin/classification
- Catechin/pharmacology
- Cell Movement/drug effects
- Cell Proliferation/drug effects
- Cell Survival/drug effects
- Cell Survival/physiology
- Cells, Cultured
- Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
- Drug Evaluation, Preclinical/methods
- Gene Expression/drug effects
- Gene Expression/genetics
- Herbal Medicine
- Humans
- Korea
- Medicine, East Asian Traditional
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/drug effects
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/pathology
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/physiology
- Plant Extracts/chemistry
- Plant Extracts/pharmacology
- Plant Stems
- Plants, Medicinal/chemistry
- Rhizome
- Tetrazolium Salts
- Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinase-2/antagonists & inhibitors
- Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinase-2/genetics
- Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha/antagonists & inhibitors
- Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha/pharmacology
- Uncaria/chemistry
- Uncaria/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Ki-Tae Ha
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Pathology and Gynecology, College of Oriental Medicine, Dongguk University and National Research Laboratory for Glycobiology, Sukjang-Dong 707, Kyungju City, Kyungbuk 780-714, South Korea
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48
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Kim JH, Chung JY, Lee YJ, Park S, Kim JH, Hahm DH, Lee HJ, Shim I. Effects of Methanol Extract of Uncariae Ramulus et Uncus on Ibotenic Acid-Induced Amnesia in the Rat. J Pharmacol Sci 2004; 96:314-23. [PMID: 15557736 DOI: 10.1254/jphs.fp0040179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
In the present study, we investigated the effects of Uncariae Ramulus et Uncus (UR) on learning and memory in the Morris water maze task and the central cholinergic system of rats with excitotoxic medial septum (MS) lesion. In the water maze test, the animals were trained to find a platform in a fixed position during 6 days and then received a 60-s probe trial in which the platform was removed from the pool on the 7th day. Ibotenic lesion of the MS showed impaired performance of the maze test and severe cell losses in the septohippocampal cholinergic system (SHC), as indicated by decreased choline acetyltransferase-immunoreactivity and acetylcholinesterase-reactivity in the hippocampus. Daily administrations of UR (100 mg/kg, i.p.) for 21 consecutive days produced significant reversals of ibotenic acid-induced deficit in learning and memory. These treatments also reduced the loss of cholinergic immunoreactivity in the hippocampus induced by ibotenic acid. These results demonstrated that impairments of spatial learning and memory may be attributable to degeneration of SHC neurons and that UR ameliorated learning and memory deficits partly through neuroprotective effects on the central acetylcholine system. Our studies suggest that UR may be useful in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Hyun Kim
- Graduate School of East-West Medical Science, College of Oriental Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Yongin-shi, Kyungki-do, Korea
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