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Tang Y, Zhu Z, Li M, Gao L, Wu X, Chen J, Zhang Y, Zhao H, Xiao Z. Lycorine relieves the CCl 4-induced liver fibrosis mainly via the JAK2/STAT3 and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2024:117017. [PMID: 38925513 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2024.117017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis, a progressive process of fibrous scarring, results from the accumulation of extracellular matrix proteins (ECM). If left untreated, it often progresses to diseases such as cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Lycorine, a natural alkaloid derived from medicinal plants, has shown diverse bioactivities by targeting JAK2/STAT3 signaling, but its pharmacological effects and potential molecular mechanisms in liver fibrosis remains largely unexplored. The purpose of this study is to elucidate the pharmacological activity and molecular mechanism of lycorine in anti-hepatic fibrosis. Findings indicate that lycorine significantly inhibited hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) activation by reducing the expression of α-SMA and collagen-1. In vivo, lycorine treatment alleviated carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) -induced mice liver fibrosis, improving liver function, decreasing ECM deposition, and inhibiting fibrosis-related markers' expression. Mechanistically, it was found that lycorine exerts protective activity through the JAK2/STAT3 and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways, as evidenced by transcriptome sequencing technology and small molecule inhibitors. These results underscore lycorine's potential as a therapeutic drug for liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Tang
- Affiliated Yueqing Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325600, China; Chemical Biology Research Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China
| | - Zaisheng Zhu
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China.
| | - Mengying Li
- Chemical Biology Research Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China
| | - Lijiao Gao
- Chemical Biology Research Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China
| | - Xinyi Wu
- Chemical Biology Research Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China
| | - Jingyi Chen
- Chemical Biology Research Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China
| | - Yali Zhang
- Affiliated Yueqing Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325600, China; Chemical Biology Research Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China.
| | - Haiyang Zhao
- Institute of Life Sciences, Biomedical Collaborative Innovation Center of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China.
| | - Zhongxiang Xiao
- Affiliated Yueqing Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325600, China.
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Guan H, Yang X, Yang M, Wang H. Targeting MAPK14 in microglial cells: neuroimmune implications of Panax ginseng in post-stroke inflammation. J Pharm Pharmacol 2024:rgae067. [PMID: 38902954 DOI: 10.1093/jpp/rgae067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
AIM This study investigates the molecular mechanisms through which Panax ginseng and Panax notoginseng saponin (PNS) mitigate neuroinflammatory damage and promote neural repair postischemic stroke, utilizing bioinformatics, and experimental approaches. BACKGROUND Cerebral infarction significantly contributes to disability worldwide, with chronic neuroinflammation worsening cognitive impairments and leading to neurodegenerative diseases. Addressing neuroimmune interactions is crucial for slowing disease progression and enhancing patient recovery, highlighting the need for advanced research in neuroimmune regulatory mechanisms and therapeutic strategies. OBJECTIVE To elucidate the effects of the traditional Chinese medicine components Panax ginseng and PNS on neuroinflammatory damage following ischemic stroke, focusing on the molecular pathways involved in mitigating inflammation and facilitating neural repair. METHODS The study employs single-cell sequencing and transcriptomic analysis to investigate gene expression changes associated with cerebral infarction. Gene set enrichment analysis and weighted gene co-expression network analysis are used to identify key molecular markers and core genes. Furthermore, pharmacological profiling, including functional assays, assesses the impact of Ginsenoside-Rc, a PNS derivative, on microglial cell viability, cytokine production, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels. RESULTS Our analysis revealed that MAPK14 is a critical mediator in the neuroinflammatory response to ischemic stroke. Ginsenoside-Rc potentially targets and modulates MAPK14 activity to suppress inflammation. Experimental validation showed that Ginsenoside-Rc treatment, combined with MAPK14 silencing, significantly alters MAPK14 expression and mitigates neuroinflammatory damage, evidenced by reduced microglial cell death, inflammatory factor secretion, and ROS production. CONCLUSION Ginsenoside-Rc's modulation of MAPK14 offers a promising therapeutic strategy for reducing neuroinflammation and potentially improving cognitive recovery post-ischemic stroke. This supports the therapeutic application of the traditional Chinese medicine Sanqi in ischemic stroke care, providing a theoretical and experimental foundation for its use. OTHERS Future work will focus on extending these findings through clinical trials to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Ginsenoside-Rc in human subjects, aiming to translate these promising preclinical results into practical therapeutic interventions for ischemic stroke recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongxu Guan
- Department of Neurology, Second Affiliated Hospital, Shandong First Medical University, Tai'an 271000, China
| | - Xiaoting Yang
- Taishan Nursing Vocational College, Tai'an 271000, China
| | - Mingfeng Yang
- Key Laboratory of Cerebral Microcirculation in Shandong First Medical University, Tai'an, Shandong 271000, China
| | - Haitao Wang
- Department of Neurology, Second Affiliated Hospital, Shandong First Medical University, Tai'an 271000, China
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Li H, Wang YG, Chen TF, Gao YH, Song L, Yang YF, Gao Y, Huo W, Zhang GP. Panax notoginseng saponin alleviates pulmonary fibrosis in rats by modulating the renin-angiotensin system. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 318:116979. [PMID: 37532070 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is a chronic, progressive, and often fatal interstitial lung disease. Traditional Chinese medicine formulations and their active ingredients have shown potential in the treatment of PF. Panax notoginseng saponin (PNS) is extracted from the widely used traditional Chinese medicinal herb Panax notoginseng (Burkill) F. H. Chen, exhibiting therapeutic effects in pulmonary diseases treatment. AIM OF THE STUDY This study aimed to investigate the effects and elucidate possible potential mechanisms of PNS on bleomycin (BLM)-induced PF in rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS PF was induced in rats by intratracheal administration of bleomycin (BLM, 5 mg/kg). After disease model induction, the rats were treated with PNS (50, 100, or 200 mg/kg per day) or pirfenidone (PFD, 50 mg/kg per day) for 28 days. Lung function, histopathological changes, collagen deposition, and E- and N-cadherin levels in lung tissue were evaluated. The mechanism of action of PNS was investigated using tandem mass tag-based quantitative proteomics analysis. Immunohistochemistry, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and Western blot analysis were performed to verify the proteomic results. RESULTS PNS treatment improved lung function, ameliorated the BLM-induced increase in the lung coefficient, attenuated the degree of alveolar inflammation and fibrosis, and reduced the elevated collagen level in PF rats. PNS treatment also down-regulated the expression of N-cadherin while up-regulating the expression of E-cadherin. Proteomic and bioinformatic analyses revealed that the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) was closely related to the therapeutic effect of PNS. Immunohistochemistry, Western blot, and ELISA results indicated that PNS exerted its anti-fibrotic effect via regulation of the balance between the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE)-angiotensin (Ang)II-AngII receptor type 1 (AT1R) and ACE2-Ang(1-7)-MasR axes. CONCLUSIONS PNS ameliorates BLM-induced PF in rats by modulating the RAS homeostasis, and is a new potential therapeutic agent for PF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Li
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100007, China.
| | - Yu-Guang Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, 100850, China.
| | - Teng-Fei Chen
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100007, China.
| | - Yun-Hang Gao
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100007, China.
| | - Ling Song
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100007, China.
| | - Yi-Fei Yang
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100007, China.
| | - Yue Gao
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, 100850, China.
| | - Wang Huo
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Sixth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100048, China.
| | - Guang-Ping Zhang
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100007, China.
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Li Y, Hu Q, Wang B. Effects of Apelin on the fibrosis of retinal tissues and Müller cells in diabetes retinopathy through the JAK2/STAT3 signalling pathway. Autoimmunity 2023; 56:2259129. [PMID: 37771168 DOI: 10.1080/08916934.2023.2259129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
Retinal fibrosis was a key characteristic of diabetes retinopathy (DR). Apelin was found to be a candidate for tissue fibrosis. Nevertheless, the role of Apelin in the Müller cells in DR remains unclear. This study identified the function and mechanism of Apelin in Müller cells and the fibrosis of retinal tissue. Western blot was carried out to detect the Apelin, GFAP, Collagen I, α-SMA, JAK2 and STAT3 protein levels. Masson staining was performed to display the histopathological changes in retinal tissue of diabetic mellitus (DM) rats. The immunofluorescence staining was conducted to evaluate the Apelin levels in the retinal tissue. The levels of GFAP, Collagen I and α-SMA in the retinal tissue of DM rats was visualised by the immunohistochemistry staining. The results showed that Apelin, GFAP, Collagen I andα-SMA expression was prominently elevated in the retinal tissue of DM rats and high glucose (HG)-exposed Müller cells. The results of Masson staining showed that the epiretinal fibrotic membrane was observed in DM rats. Apelin knockdown declined the GFAP, Collagen I andα-SMA levels. Besides, the protein levels of p-JAK2 and p-STAT3 were elevated in the HG-treated Müller cells, while Apelin knockdown declined them. FLLL32 treatment neutralised the role of Apelin. In conclusion, Apelin facilitated the fibrogenic activity of Müller cells through activating the JAK2/STAT3 signalling pathway, and thus inducing the retinal fibrosis in DR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Li
- Xiamen Eye Center, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Qinrui Hu
- Xiamen Eye Center, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Bin Wang
- Xiamen Eye Center, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
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Li H, Zhao C, Muhetaer G, Guo L, Yao K, Zhang G, Ji Y, Xing S, Zhou J, Huang X. Integrated RNA-sequencing and network pharmacology approach reveals the protection of Yiqi Huoxue formula against idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis by interfering with core transcription factors. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 104:154301. [PMID: 35792448 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2022.154301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a refractory disease. Therefore, developing effective therapies for IPF is the need of the hour. PURPOSE Yiqi Huoxue Formula (YQHX) is an herbal formula comprising three herbal medicines: Ligusticum chuanxiong Hort. (Chuanxiong Rhizoma, CR), Panax notoginseng (Burk.) F. H. Chen (Notoginseng Radix Et Rhizoma, NR) and Panax ginseng C. A. Mey. (Ginseng Radix Et Rhizoma, GR). This study aims to determine the anti-pulmonary fibrosis effect of YQHX and explore its mechanism of action. STUDY Design and Methods: The chemical components in the GR, CR and NR extracts were identified by High Performance Liquid Chromatography. A TGF-β1-induced myofibroblast cell model was used to test the anti-fibrosis effect of GR, CR, NR and YQHX. RNA-sequencing was used to identify the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) after YQHX treatment. Subsequently, gene enrichment analysis and key transcription factors (TFs) prediction for YQHX-regulated DEGs was performed. The active constituents of GR, CR and NR were obtained from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Database and Analysis Platform. Targets of the active constituents were predicted using the similarity ensemble approach search server and Swiss Target Prediction tool. YQHX-targeted key TFs that transcribed the DEGs were screened out. Then, the effect of YQHX on the bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis mouse model was studied. Finally, one of the predicted TFs, STAT3, was selected to validate the prediction accuracy. RESULTS Seven, two, and five compounds were identified in the GR, CR, and NR extracts, respectively. YQHX and its constituents-GR, CR and NR-inhibited the expression of fibrotic markers, including α -SMA and fibronectin, indicating that YQHX inhibited TGF-β1-induced myofibroblast activation. RNA-sequencing identified 291 genes that were up-regulated in the TGF-β1 group but down-regulated after YQHX treatment. In total, 55 key TFs that transcribed YQHX-regulated targets were predicted. A regulatory network of 24 active ingredients and 232 corresponding targets for YQHX was established. Among YQHX's predicted targets, 20 were TFs. On overlapping YQHX-targeted TFs and DEGs' key TFs, six key TFs, including HIF1A, STAT6, STAT3, PPARA, DDIT3 and AR, were identified as the targets of YQHX. Additionally, YQHX alleviated bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis in a mouse model by inhibiting the phosphorylation of STAT3 in the lungs of pulmonary fibrosis mice. CONCLUSIONS This study provides pharmacological support for the use of YQHX in the treatment of IPF. The potential mechanism of action of YQHX is speculated to involve the modulation of core TFs and inhibition of pathogenetic gene expressions in IPF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hang Li
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Central lab, Shenzhen Bao'an District Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Yu'an Second Road, No. 21, Shenzhen 518133, China.
| | - Caiping Zhao
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Central lab, Shenzhen Bao'an District Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Yu'an Second Road, No. 21, Shenzhen 518133, China
| | - Gulizeba Muhetaer
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Central lab, Shenzhen Bao'an District Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Yu'an Second Road, No. 21, Shenzhen 518133, China
| | - Longgang Guo
- Guangzhou Chromap Biotechnology Co., Ltd., Guangzhou 510700, China
| | - Kainan Yao
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Central lab, Shenzhen Bao'an District Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Yu'an Second Road, No. 21, Shenzhen 518133, China
| | - Guiyu Zhang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Central lab, Shenzhen Bao'an District Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Yu'an Second Road, No. 21, Shenzhen 518133, China
| | - Yichun Ji
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Central lab, Shenzhen Bao'an District Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Yu'an Second Road, No. 21, Shenzhen 518133, China
| | - Sizhong Xing
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Central lab, Shenzhen Bao'an District Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Yu'an Second Road, No. 21, Shenzhen 518133, China
| | - Jihong Zhou
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Central lab, Shenzhen Bao'an District Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Yu'an Second Road, No. 21, Shenzhen 518133, China.
| | - Xiufang Huang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510405, China; Lingnan Medical Research Center of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Jichang Road, No. 12, Guangzhou 510405, China.
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Li H, Liu NN, Li JR, Wang MX, Tan JL, Dong B, Lan P, Zhao LM, Peng ZG, Jiang JD. Bicyclol ameliorates advanced liver diseases in murine models via inhibiting the IL-6/STAT3 signaling pathway. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 150:113083. [PMID: 35658240 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113083] [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: 03/25/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Bicyclol, a synthetic hepatoprotective and anti-inflammatory agent approved in China, was widely used to treat various hepatitis accompanied by elevated serum aminotransferases. However, the pharmacological effects and mechanisms of bicyclol on advanced liver diseases, such as fibrosis/cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), remain to be explored. Here, we revealed that bicyclol prevents from formatting severe fibrosis, slows the progression of moderate liver fibrosis, accelerates the regression of moderate liver fibrosis, decreases the malignancy of HCC in rat models induced by diethylnitrosamine (DEN), and also blocks steatohepatitis to HCC in mice induced by western diet plus carbon tetrachloride and DEN. The detailed pharmacological mechanism showed that bicyclol alleviates chronic progressive liver diseases by inhibiting the levels of IL-6 and subsequent phosphorylated STAT3. Conclusion: Bicyclol plays significant protective roles in multiply stages of fibrosis/cirrhosis-HCC and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease-related HCC via inhibiting IL-6/STAT3 signaling pathway. Therefore, bicyclol might be a promising therapeutic strategy for treating advanced liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hu Li
- CAMS Key Laboratory of Antiviral Drug Research, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China; Key Laboratory of Biotechnology of Antibiotics, The National Health and Family Planning Commission (NHFPC), Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Nan-Nan Liu
- CAMS Key Laboratory of Antiviral Drug Research, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Jian-Rui Li
- CAMS Key Laboratory of Antiviral Drug Research, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Antimicrobial Agents, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Mei-Xi Wang
- CAMS Key Laboratory of Antiviral Drug Research, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Jia-Li Tan
- CAMS Key Laboratory of Antiviral Drug Research, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Biao Dong
- CAMS Key Laboratory of Antiviral Drug Research, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China; Key Laboratory of Biotechnology of Antibiotics, The National Health and Family Planning Commission (NHFPC), Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Pei Lan
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Li-Min Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Zong-Gen Peng
- CAMS Key Laboratory of Antiviral Drug Research, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China; Key Laboratory of Biotechnology of Antibiotics, The National Health and Family Planning Commission (NHFPC), Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Antimicrobial Agents, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China.
| | - Jian-Dong Jiang
- CAMS Key Laboratory of Antiviral Drug Research, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China; Key Laboratory of Biotechnology of Antibiotics, The National Health and Family Planning Commission (NHFPC), Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Antimicrobial Agents, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China; State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China.
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Non-invasive quantitative diagnosis of liver fibrosis with an artificial neural network. Neural Comput Appl 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s00521-021-06257-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Gong X, Shan L, Cao S, Li K, Wu Y, Zhang Q. Notoginsenoside R1, An Active Compound from Panax notoginseng, Inhibits Hepatic Stellate Cell Activation and Liver Fibrosis via MAPK Signaling Pathway. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF CHINESE MEDICINE 2022; 50:511-523. [PMID: 35114912 DOI: 10.1142/s0192415x22500197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Activation of the hepatic stellate cell is implicated in pathological vascularization during development of liver fibrosis. MAPK signaling is involved in the activation of hepatic stellate cell. Oxidative stress and inflammation are also involved in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis. Notoginsenoside R1 is an effective saponin isolated from the roots of Panax notoginseng (Burk) F. H. Chen and exerts anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic roles in various diseases. However, the role of Notoginsenoside R1 in liver fibrosis has not been investigated yet. First, a rat model with liver fibrosis was established through oral gavage administration with carbon tetrachloride. Data from hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and Masson's trichrome stainings showed that carbon tetrachloride induced severe hepatic damages, including inflammatory cell infiltration, lipid droplets deposition in hepatocytes and liver centrilobular necrosis. Meanwhile, the rats were also intraperitoneal injected with different concentrations of Notoginsenoside R1. Results demonstrated that Notoginsenoside R1 treatment suppressed the pathological changes in the livers with enhanced levels of ALB and TP, and reduced levels of ALP, AST and ALT. Second, Notoginsenoside R1 also significantly attenuated carbon tetrachloride-induced decrease in PPAR-[Formula: see text] and increase in Coll-a1, [Formula: see text]-SMA and TIMP1 in liver tissues ([Formula: see text][Formula: see text] 0.001). Third, the decrease in GSH, SOD and GST and increase in MDA, IL-1[Formula: see text], IL-6 and TNF-[Formula: see text] induced by carbon tetrachloride were markedly restored by Notoginsenoside R1 ([Formula: see text][Formula: see text] 0.001). Lastly, Notoginsenoside R1 counteracted with the promotive effects of carbon tetrachloride on levels of proteins involved in MAPK signaling, including phosphorylated p65 (p-p65), p-ERK, p-JNK and p-p38. In conclusion, Notoginsenoside R1 suppressed the activation of hepatic stellate cells and exerted anti- oxidant and anti-inflammatory to attenuate carbon tetrachloride-induced liver fibrosis through inactivation of NF-[Formula: see text]B and MAPK signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu Gong
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Lianyungang Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Lianyungang, Jiangsu Province 222004, P. R. China
| | - Linlin Shan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Lianyungang Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Lianyungang, Jiangsu Province 222004, P. R. China
| | - Sisi Cao
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Lianyungang Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Lianyungang, Jiangsu Province 222004, P. R. China
| | - Kaitao Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Lianyungang Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Lianyungang, Jiangsu Province 222004, P. R. China
| | - Yanli Wu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Lianyungang Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Lianyungang, Jiangsu Province 222004, P. R. China
| | - Qing Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Lianyungang Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Lianyungang, Jiangsu Province 222004, P. R. China
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Li N, Shan S, Li XQ, Chen TT, Qi M, Zhang SN, Wang ZY, Zhang LL, Wei W, Sun WY. G Protein-Coupled Receptor Kinase 2 as Novel Therapeutic Target in Fibrotic Diseases. Front Immunol 2022; 12:822345. [PMID: 35111168 PMCID: PMC8801426 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.822345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptor kinase 2 (GRK2), an important subtype of GRKs, specifically phosphorylates agonist-activated G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). Besides, current research confirms that it participates in multiple regulation of diverse cells via a non-phosphorylated pathway, including interacting with various non-receptor substrates and binding partners. Fibrosis is a common pathophysiological phenomenon in the repair process of many tissues due to various pathogenic factors such as inflammation, injury, drugs, etc. The characteristics of fibrosis are the activation of fibroblasts leading to myofibroblast proliferation and differentiation, subsequent aggerate excessive deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM). Then, a positive feedback loop is occurred between tissue stiffness caused by ECM and fibroblasts, ultimately resulting in distortion of organ architecture and function. At present, GRK2, which has been described as a multifunctional protein, regulates copious signaling pathways under pathophysiological conditions correlated with fibrotic diseases. Along with GRK2-mediated regulation, there are diverse effects on the growth and apoptosis of different cells, inflammatory response and deposition of ECM, which are essential in organ fibrosis progression. This review is to highlight the relationship between GRK2 and fibrotic diseases based on recent research. It is becoming more convincing that GRK2 could be considered as a potential therapeutic target in many fibrotic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Li
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Shan Shan
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Xiu-Qin Li
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Ting-Ting Chen
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Meng Qi
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Sheng-Nan Zhang
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Zi-Ying Wang
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Ling-Ling Zhang
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Wei Wei
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Wu-Yi Sun
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Hefei, China
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Dai C, Yusuf A, Sun H, Shu G, Deng X. A characterized saponin extract of Panax japonicus suppresses hepatocyte EMT and HSC activation in vitro and CCl 4-provoked liver fibrosis in mice: Roles of its modulatory effects on the Akt/GSK3β/Nrf2 cascade. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 93:153746. [PMID: 34634746 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2021.153746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2021] [Revised: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Liver fibrosis constitutes a pathologic condition resulting in a series of advanced liver diseases. Oleanane-type saponins are distinctive active constituents in the medicinal plant Panax japonicus C. A. Mey (P. japonicus). Herein, we assessed protective effects of a characterized saponin extract of rhizomes of P. japonicus (SEPJ) on hepatocyte EMT and HSC activation in vitro and liver fibrosis in mice. We also investigated molecular mechanisms underlying the hepatoprotective activity of SEPJ. METHODS EMT of AML-12 hepatocytes was evaluated by observing morphology of cells and quantifying EMT marker proteins. Activation of LX-2 HSCs was assessed via scratch assay, transwell assay, and EdU-incorporation assay, and by quantifying activation marker proteins. Liver fibrosis in mice was evaluated by HE, SR, and Masson staining, and by measuring related serum indicators. Immunoblotting and RT-PCR were performed to study mechanisms underlying the action of SEPJ. RESULTS SEPJ inhibited TGF-β-induced EMT in AML-12 hepatocytes and activation of LX-2 HSCs. SEPJ elevated Akt phosphorylation at Ser473 and GSK3β phosphorylation at Ser9 in these cells, giving rise to a descent of the catalytic activity of GSK3β. These events increased levels of both total and nuclear Nrf2 protein and upregulated expressions of Nrf2-responsive antioxidative genes. In addition, enhanced phosphorylation of Akt and GSK3β acted upstream of SEPJ-mediated activation of Nrf2. Knockdown of Nrf2 or inhibition of Akt diminished the protective activity of SEPJ against TGF-β in both AML-12 and LX-2 cells. Our further in vivo experiments revealed that SEPJ imposed a considerable alleviation on CCl4-provoked mouse liver fibrosis. Moreover, hepatic Akt/GSK3β/Nrf2 cascade were potentiated by SEPJ. Taken together, our results unveiled that SEPJ exerted protective effects against fibrogenic cytokine TGF-β in vitro and ameliorated liver fibrosis in mice. Mechanistically, SEPJ regulated the Akt/GSK3β/Nrf2 signaling which subsequently enhanced intracellular antioxidative capacity. CONCLUSIONS SEPJ inhibits hepatocyte EMT and HSC activation in vitro and alleviates liver fibrosis in mice. Modulation of the Akt/GSK3β/Nrf2 cascade attributes to its hepatoprotective effects. Our findings support a possible application of SEPJ in the control of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenxi Dai
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, South-Central University for Nationalities, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Arslan Yusuf
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, South-Central University for Nationalities, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Hui Sun
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, South-Central University for Nationalities, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Guangwen Shu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, South-Central University for Nationalities, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
| | - Xukun Deng
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, South-Central University for Nationalities, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
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Abstract
Janus protein tyrosine kinase (JAK) has the ability to activate signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT). STAT3 is a valued member of the JAK/STAT signaling pathway. In recent years, several studies have documented that STAT3 is closely related to the occurrence and development of liver fibrosis caused by various factors. Activation of STAT3 can play anti- or pro-inflammatory roles in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis. This article reviewed the recent studies on STAT3 in the development of various liver fibrosis to find a more effective method to relieve and cure liver diseases, such as hepatitis B virus (HBV), non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), schistosomiasis, and chemical liver injury.
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Tian-Huang Formula, a Traditional Chinese Medicinal Prescription, Improves Hepatosteatosis and Glucose Intolerance Targeting AKT-SREBP Nexus in Diet-Induced Obese Rats. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2021; 2021:6617586. [PMID: 33763145 PMCID: PMC7955866 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6617586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2020] [Revised: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The progressive increase of metabolic diseases underscores the necessity for developing effective therapies. Although we found Tian-Huang formula (THF) could alleviate metabolic disorders, the underlying mechanism remains to be fully understood. In the present study, firstly, male Sprague-Dawley rats were fed with high-fat diet plus high-fructose drink (HFF, the diet is about 60% of calories from fat and the drink is 12.5% fructose solution) for 14 weeks to induce hepatosteatosis and glucose intolerance and then treated with THF (200 mg/kg) for 4 weeks. Then, metabolomics analysis was performed with rat liver samples and following the clues illustrated by Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) with the metabolomics discoveries, RT-qPCR and Western blotting were carried out to validate the putative pathways. Our results showed that THF treatment reduced the body weight from 735.1 ± 81.29 to 616.3 ± 52.81 g and plasma triglyceride from 1.5 ± 0.42 to 0.88 ± 0.33 mmol/L; meanwhile, histological examinations of hepatic tissue and epididymis adipose tissue showed obvious alleviation. Compared with the HFF group, the fasting serum insulin and blood glucose level of the THF group were improved from 20.77 ± 6.58 to 9.65 ± 5.48 mIU/L and from 8.96 ± 0.56 to 7.66 ± 1.25 mmol/L, respectively, so did the serum aspartate aminotransferase, insulin resistance index, and oral glucose tolerance (p = 0.0019, 0.0053, and 0.0066, respectively). Furthermore, based on a list of 32 key differential endogenous metabolites, the molecular networks generated by IPA suggested that THF alleviated glucose intolerance and hepatosteatosis by activating phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase (PI3K) and low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDL-R) involved pathways. RT-qPCR and Western blotting results confirmed that THF alleviated hepatic steatosis and glucose intolerance partly through protein kinase B- (AKT-) sterol regulatory element-binding protein (SREBP) nexus. Our findings shed light on molecular mechanisms of THF on alleviating metabolic diseases and provided further evidence for developing its therapeutic potential.
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Gut-liver axis modulation of Panax notoginseng saponins in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Hepatol Int 2021; 15:350-365. [PMID: 33656663 PMCID: PMC8144126 DOI: 10.1007/s12072-021-10138-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 01/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Background and aims Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is an obesity-related comorbidity, and it is characterized as a spectrum of liver abnormalities, including inflammation, steatosis, and fibrosis. The gut-liver axis is implicated in the pathogenesis and development of NAFLD. A promising drug agent targeting the gut-liver axis is expected to reverse NAFLD. Methods We utilized high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obese mice and obesity-prone Lepob mice to examine the gut-liver regulation of the natural medicine Panax Notoginseng Saponins (PNS) on NAFLD. Results PNS exhibited potent anti-lipogenesis and anti-fibrotic effects in NAFLD mice, that was associated with the TLR4-induced inflammatory signalling pathway in liver. More strikingly, PNS treatment caused a deceleration of gut-to-liver translocation of microbiota-derived short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) products. PNS-induced TLR4 inhibition and restoration of Claudin-1 and ZO-1 proteins in the gut-liver axis contributed to the reverse of leaky gut, which in turn abolished by the addition of lipopolysaccharide (LPS), an agonist of TLR4. Specifically, hepatic steatosis in HFD-treated mice was attenuated by PNS through regulating AMPKα, but restored by the replenishment of LPS. Meanwhile, the anti-fibrotic effect of PNS was abolished by LPS stimulation via the overproduction of collagen I/IV and α-SMA. Conclusion PNS exerted hepatoprotection against NAFLD in both ob/ob and HFD-induced obese mice, primarily by mediating the gut-liver axis in a TLR4-dependent manner. Graphic abstract Panax notoginseng saponins (PNS) ameliorated hepatic steatosis and fibrosis, and gut-liver axis-mediated pathogenesis of NAFLD is proposed to occur in a TLR4-dependent manner. ![]()
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12072-021-10138-1.
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Wada Y, Tokuda K, Morine Y, Okikawa S, Yamashita S, Ikemoto T, Imura S, Saito Y, Yamada S, Shimada M. The inhibitory effect of TU-100 on hepatic stellate cell activation in the tumor microenvironment. Oncotarget 2020; 11:4593-4604. [PMID: 33346211 PMCID: PMC7733620 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.27835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The tumor microenvironment is involved in acquiring tumor malignancies of colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM). We have reported that TU-100 (Daikenchuto) suppresses hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation in obstructive jaundice. In this study, we report new findings as the direct and indirect inhibitory effects of TU-100 on cancer cell growth through the suppression of HSC activation. MATERIALS AND METHODS The HSCs (LX2) were cultured in colon cancer cells (HCT116 and HT29)-conditioned medium (CM) with or without TU-100 treatment (90, 270, 900 μg/ml). Activated HSCs (aHSCs) were detected by α-SMA and IL-6 mRNA expressions and cytokine arrays of HSC's culture supernatants. Cancer cell growth was analyzed for proliferation and migration ability, compared with TU-100 treatment. To investigate the direct anti-tumor effect of TU-100, cancer cells were cultured in the presence of aHSC-CM and TU-100 (90, 270, 900) or aHSC-CM alone, and assessed autophagosomes, conversion to LC3-II protein, and Beclin-1 mRNA expression. RESULTS Colon cancer-CM significantly increased α-SMA and IL-6 mRNA expressions of aHSC. α-SMA and IL-6 mRNA expressions of aHSC, and IL-6 secretions from aHSCs were significantly decreased with TU-100 (270, 900) treatment, compared to colon cancer-CM alone. Compared with normal culture medium, aHSC-CM led to a significantly increased cell number and modified HSC-CM (TU-100; 270, 900) significantly suppressed cancer cell growth and migration. TU-100 (900) treatment induced autophagy and significantly promoted the autophagic cell death. CONCLUSIONS TU-100 inhibited colon cancer cell malignant potential by both suppressing HSC activation and inducing directly autophagy of cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuma Wada
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan.,These authors contributed equally to this work
| | - Kazunori Tokuda
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan.,These authors contributed equally to this work
| | - Yuji Morine
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Shohei Okikawa
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Shoko Yamashita
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Ikemoto
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Satoru Imura
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Yu Saito
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Shinichiro Yamada
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Mitsuo Shimada
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
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Liu L, Xu FR, Wang YZ. Traditional uses, chemical diversity and biological activities of Panax L. (Araliaceae): A review. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2020; 263:112792. [PMID: 32311488 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2020.112792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2019] [Revised: 03/22/2020] [Accepted: 03/22/2020] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Panax L. (Araliaceae) is globally-recognized plant resource suitable for the globalization of traditional Chinese medicines. It has traditionally been used as tonic agents in various ethnomedicinal systems of East Asia, especially in China. It is often used to regulate bodily functions and considered as adjuvant therapy for tumor, resuscitation of traumatic hemorrhagic shock, etc. AIM OF THIS REVIEW: This review systematically summarized the information on distributions, botanical characteristics, traditional uses, chemical components and biological activities of the genus Panax, in order to explore and exploit the therapeutic potential of this plant. MATERIALS AND METHODS The available information about genus Panax was collected via the online search on Web of Science, Google Scholar, PubMed, Baidu Scholar, Science Direct, China National Knowledge Infrastructure and Springer search. The keywords used include Panax, saponin, secondary metabolites, chemical components, biological activity, pharmacology, traditional medicinal uses, safety and other related words. The Plant List (www.theplantlist.org) and Catalogue of Life: 2019 Annual Checklist (www.catalogueoflife.org/col/) databases were used to provide the scientific names, subspecies classification and distribution information of Panax. RESULTS Panax is widely assessed concerning its phytochemistry and biological activities. To date, at least 748 chemical compounds from genus Panax were isolated, including saponins, flavonoids, polysaccharides, steroids and phenols. Among them, triterpenoid saponins and polysaccharides were the representative active ingredients of Panax plants, which have been widely investigated. Modern pharmacological studies showed that these compounds exhibited a wide range of biological activities in vitro and in vivo including antineoplastic, anti-inflammatory, hepatorenal protective, neuroprotective, immunoregulatory, cardioprotective and antidiabetic activities. Many studies also confirmed that the mechanisms of organ-protective were closely related to molecular signaling pathways, the expression of related proteins and antioxidant reactions. To sum up, genus Panax has high medicinal and social value, deserving further investigation. CONCLUSIONS The genus Panax is very promising to be fully utilized in the development of nutraceutical and pharmaceutical products. However, there is a lack of in-depth studies on ethnomedicinal uses of Panax plants. In addition, further studies of single chemical component should be performed based on the diversity of chemical structure, significant biological activities and clinical application. If the bioactive molecules and multicomponent interactions are discovered, it will be of great significance to the clinical application of Panax plants. It is an urgent requirement to carry out detailed phytochemical, pharmacology and clinical research on Panax classical prescriptions for the establishment of modern medication guidelines. Exploring the molecular basis of herbal synergistic actions may provide a new understanding of the complex disease mechanisms and accelerate the process of pharmaceutical development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Liu
- Medicinal Plants Research Institute, Yunnan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Kunming, China; College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Kunming, China
| | - Fu-Rong Xu
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Kunming, China.
| | - Yuan-Zhong Wang
- Medicinal Plants Research Institute, Yunnan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Kunming, China.
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Calabrese EJ. Hormesis and Ginseng: Ginseng Mixtures and Individual Constituents Commonly Display Hormesis Dose Responses, Especially for Neuroprotective Effects. Molecules 2020; 25:E2719. [PMID: 32545419 PMCID: PMC7321326 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25112719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Revised: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
This paper demonstrates that ginseng mixtures and individual ginseng chemical constituents commonly induce hormetic dose responses in numerous biological models for endpoints of biomedical and clinical relevance, typically providing a mechanistic framework. The principal focus of ginseng hormesis-related research has been directed toward enhancing neuroprotection against conditions such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's Diseases, stroke damage, as well as enhancing spinal cord and peripheral neuronal damage repair and reducing pain. Ginseng was also shown to reduce symptoms of diabetes, prevent cardiovascular system damage, protect the kidney from toxicities due to immune suppressant drugs, and prevent corneal damage, amongst other examples. These findings complement similar hormetic-based chemoprotective reports for other widely used dietary-type supplements such as curcumin, ginkgo biloba, and green tea. These findings, which provide further support for the generality of the hormetic dose response in the biomedical literature, have potentially important public health and clinical implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward J Calabrese
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health and Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
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Li RL, Wang JX, Chai LJ, Guo H, Wang H, Chen L, Hu LM, Wang SX. Xueshuantong for Injection (Lyophilized, ) Alleviates Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Retinopathy in Rats. Chin J Integr Med 2020; 26:825-832. [PMID: 32415646 DOI: 10.1007/s11655-020-3088-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the ameliorate effect and underlying mechanism of Xueshuantong for Injection (Lyophilized, , XST) in streptozocin (STZ)-induced diabetic retinopathy (DR) rats. METHODS Diabetes mellitus (DM) model was induced by intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of STZ (60 mg/kg) in Sprague-Dawley rats. Diabetic rats were randomized into 3 groups (n=10) according to a random number table, including DM, XST50 and XST100 groups. XST treatment groups were daily i.p. injected with 50 or 100 mg/kg XST for 60 days, respectively. The control and DM groups were given i.p. injection with saline. Blood glucose level and body weight were recorded every week. Histological changes in the retina tissues were observed with hematoxylin-eosin staining. Apoptosis and inflammation related factors, including cleaved caspase-3, glial fifibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and intercellular cell adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) were detected by Western blot or real-time polymerase chain reaction. Then, the levels of advanced glycation end product (AGE) and its receptor (RAGE) were investigated. Tight junctions proteins (Zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1), Occludin and Claudin-5) of blood-retinal barrier were detected by Western blot. The levels of retinal fifibrosis, transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)-Smad2/3 signaling pathway were evaluated at last. RESULTS There was no signifificant difference in the body weight and blood glucose level between XST and DM groups (P>0.05). Compared with the DM group, XST treatment signifificantly increased the retinal thickness of rats (P<0.05 or P<0.01), and suppressed cleaved caspase-3 expression (P<0.01). XST increased the protein expressions of ZO-1, Occludin and Claudin-5 and decreased the mRNA expressions of matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2) and MMP-9 (P<0.05 or P<0.01). Moreover, XST signifificantly reduced the productions of AGE and RAGE proteins in the retina of rats (P<0.05 or P<0.01), suppressed the over-expression of TNF-α, and decreased the elevated level of ICAM-1 in retina of rats (P<0.05 or P<0.01). XST signifificantly reduced the levels of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), TGF-β1 and phosphorylation of Smad2/3 protein in rats (P<0.05 or P<0.01). CONCLUSIONS XST had protective effects on DR with possible mechanisms of inhibiting the inflammation and apoptosis, up-regulating the expression of tight junction proteins, suppressing the productions of AGE and RAGE proteins, and blocking the TGF-β/Smad2/3 signaling pathway. XST treatment might play a role for the future therapeutic strategy against DR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui-Lin Li
- Tianjin State Key Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 300193, China
| | - Jin-Xin Wang
- Tianjin State Key Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 300193, China
| | - Li-Juan Chai
- Key Laboratory of Pharmacology of Traditional Chinese Medical Formula, Ministry of Education, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 300193, China
| | - Hong Guo
- Key Laboratory of Pharmacology of Traditional Chinese Medical Formula, Ministry of Education, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 300193, China
| | - Hong Wang
- Tianjin State Key Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 300193, China
| | - Lu Chen
- Tianjin State Key Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 300193, China
| | - Li-Min Hu
- Key Laboratory of Pharmacology of Traditional Chinese Medical Formula, Ministry of Education, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 300193, China
| | - Shao-Xia Wang
- Tianjin State Key Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 300193, China.
- School of Integrative Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 300193, China.
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Chen W, Li Y, Hsu CT, Niu CS, Pen WH, Cheng KC, Niu HS. Connective tissue growth factor in hepatocytes is elevated by carbon tetrachloride via STAT3 activation. Mol Med Rep 2020; 21:1390-1398. [PMID: 31922209 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2020.10916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2019] [Accepted: 11/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) is widely used to induce hepatic fibrosis. Therapeutic agents alleviate hepatic fibrosis by inhibiting signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) activation. To understand the direct effects of CCl4 on STAT3 expression in the liver, the present study incubated cultured hepatocytes expressing connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) with CCl4. Rats exposed to CCl4 for 8 weeks exhibited hepatic fibrosis, which was confirmed through the assessment of plasma biomarkers. Isolated liver samples were used to determine the protein levels of CTGF and STAT3 using western blotting. In addition, STAT3 expression was silenced in α mouse liver 12 (AML‑12) cells using small interfering RNA transfection. In addition, a pharmacological inhibitor, stattic, was used to inhibit STAT3 expression. The incubation of AML‑12 cells with CCl4 induced a dose‑dependent increase in CTGF expression and STAT3 activation. Notably, silymarin, an extract from milk thistle, inhibited these changes in AML‑12 cells and the antioxidant tiron produced similar effects. Silencing of STAT3 reduced the CTGF expression promoted by CCl4 in the hepatocytes. Additionally, similar to tiron, stattic inhibited CTGF expression induced by CCl4. In conclusion, CCl4 may activate STAT3 through oxidative stress to promote CTGF expression, which is one of the main factors contributing to the risk of hepatic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhsu Chen
- Department of Internal Medicine, E‑Da Hospital, I‑Shou University, Kaohsiung 82401, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | - Yingxiao Li
- Department of Psychosomatic Internal Medicine, Kagoshima University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima 890‑8520, Japan
| | - Chao-Tien Hsu
- Department of Pathology, E‑Da Hospital, I‑Shou University, Kaohsiung 82401, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | - Chiang-Shan Niu
- Department of Nursing, Tzu Chi University of Science and Technology, Hualien 97005, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | - Wen-Huang Pen
- Department of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences and Chinese Medicine Resources, College of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | - Kai-Chun Cheng
- Pharmacological Department of Herbal Medicine, Kagoshima University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima 890‑8520, Japan
| | - Ho-Shan Niu
- Department of Nursing, Tzu Chi University of Science and Technology, Hualien 97005, Taiwan, R.O.C
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Zhong H, Wu H, Bai H, Wang M, Wen J, Gong J, Miao M, Yuan F. Panax notoginseng saponins promote liver regeneration through activation of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR cell proliferation pathway and upregulation of the AKT/Bad cell survival pathway in mice. Altern Ther Health Med 2019; 19:122. [PMID: 31182089 PMCID: PMC6558887 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-019-2536-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2019] [Accepted: 05/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Backgroud The regenerative capacity of the liver is crucial for the host to survive after serious hepatic injuries, tumor resection, or living donor liver transplantation. Panax notoginseng saponins (PNS) have been reported to exert protective effects during organ injuries. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of PNS on liver regeneration(LR) and on injuries induced by partial hepatectomy (PH). Methods We performed 70% partial PH on C57BL/6 J mice treated with or without PNS. LR was estimated by liver weight/body weight, serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels and cell proliferation, and the related cellular signals were analyzed by Western blot. Results Different concentrations of PNS promoted hepatocyte proliferation in vitro. Mice in the PNS group showed higher liver/body weight ratios at 2 d and 7 d (P < 0.05) after PH and lower levels of serum ALT and AST (P < 0.05) compared to those of mice in the normal control (NC) group. Histological analysis showed that the expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen(PCNA) at 2 d and 7 d after PH was significantly higher in the PNS group than in the NC group (P < 0.05). Mechanistically, the AKT/mTOR cell proliferation pathway and AKT/Bad cell survival pathway were activated by PNS, which accelerated hepatocyte proliferation and inhibited apoptosis (P < 0.05). Conclusions PNS promoted liver regeneration through activation of PI3K/AKT/mTOR and upregulated the AKT/Bad cell pathways in mice.
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Xu C, Wang W, Wang B, Zhang T, Cui X, Pu Y, Li N. Analytical methods and biological activities of Panax notoginseng saponins: Recent trends. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2019; 236:443-465. [PMID: 30802611 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2019.02.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2018] [Revised: 02/02/2019] [Accepted: 02/19/2019] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Panax notoginseng (Burk.) F. H. Chen, also called Sanqi, is a widely used traditional Chinese medicine, which has long history used as herbal medicines. It is currently an important medicinal material in China, holding the first place in the sale volume of the whole patent medicines market in China, and the market size of the single species has exceeded 10 billion yuan. In addition, P. notoginseng is an important constituent part of many famous Chinese patent medicines, such as Compound Danshen Dripping Pills and Yunnan Baiyao. P. notoginseng saponins (PNSs), which are the major active components of P. notoginseng, are a kind of chemical mixture containing different dammarane-type saponins. Many studies show that PNSs have been extensively used in medical research or applications, such as atherosclerosis, diabetes, acute lung injury, cancer, and cardiovascular diseases. In addition, various PNS preparations, such as injections and capsules, have been made commercially available and are widely applied in clinical practice. AIM OF THE REVIEW Since the safety and efficacy of compounds are related to their qualitative and quantitative analyses, this review briefly summarizes the analytic approaches for PNSs and their biological effects developed in the last decade. METHODOLOGY This review conducted a systematic search in electronic databases, such as Pubmed, Google Scholar, SciFinder, ISI Web of Science, and CNKI, since 2009. The information provided in this review is based on peer-reviewed papers and patents in either English or Chinese. RESULTS At present, the chromatographic technique remains the most extensively used approach for the identification or quantitation of PNSs, coupled with different detectors, among which the difference mainly lies in their sensitivity and specificity for analyzing various compounds. It is well-known that PNSs have traditionally strong activity on cardiovascular diseases, such as atherosclerosis, intracerebral hemorrhage, or brain injury. The recent studies showed that PNSs also responded to osteoporosis, cancers, diabetes, and drug toxicity. However, some other studies also showed that some PNSs injections and special PNS components might lead to some biological toxicity under certain dosages. CONCLUSION This review may be used as a basis for further research in the field of quantitative and qualitative analyses, and is expected to provide updated and valuable insights into the potential medicinal applications of PNSs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Congcong Xu
- Experiment Center for Teaching and Learning, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China; School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Weiwei Wang
- Experiment Center for Teaching and Learning, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China; School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Bing Wang
- Experiment Center for Teaching and Learning, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China; Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Tong Zhang
- Experiment Center for Teaching and Learning, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China; School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Xiuming Cui
- Key Laboratory of Sustainable Utilization of Panax Notoginseng Resources of Yunnan Province, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Yiqiong Pu
- Experiment Center for Teaching and Learning, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Ning Li
- The MOE Key Laboratory for Standardization of Chinese Medicines, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Compound Chinese Medicines and The SATCM Key Laboratory for New Resources and Quality Evaluation of Chinese Medicines, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China; Research Institute of KPC Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Kunming 650100, China.
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Saponins from Panax notoginseng leaves improve the symptoms of aplastic anemia and aberrant immunity in mice. Biomed Pharmacother 2018; 102:959-965. [PMID: 29710551 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2018.03.175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2018] [Revised: 03/26/2018] [Accepted: 03/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Aplastic anemia (AA) is usually treated with immunosuppressive agents, but their efficacy and safety are not satisfactory. Panax notoginseng saponins (PNS) promote the proliferation of hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells. This study aimed to examine the effects of leaf PNS (LPNS) on hematopoiesis and T cells in mouse models of AA. The experiments were performed in normal mice and AA mice (controls, cyclosporine, and low, medium, and high doses of LPNS). Hematopoietic cells were counted using colony formation assays. The proportions of T cells were measured by flow cytometry. The ERK1/2, T-bet, GATA-3, FOXP3, and RORγ proteins were assessed by western blotting. Cytokines were measured using a cytometric bead array. AA mice showed impaired hematopoiesis, high activation of T cells, and decreased expression of T-bet, GATA-3, and FOXP3. LPNS attenuated the inflammation observed in AA mice, and significantly increased the number of hematopoietic progenitor cells. The proportions of Th2 and regulatory T cells and the protein levels of P-ERK1/2, GATA-3, and FOXP3 were increased in the AA + LPNS mice compared with the AA mice. In contrast, LPNS decreased the proportions of Th1 and Th17 cells and the protein expression of T-bet. LPNS and cyclosporine had similar effects, but of different amplitudes. These results suggest that LPNS have dual activities in AA: 1) promoting the proliferation of hematopoietic progenitor cells; and 2) modulating T cell immune functions, an activity similar to that of cyclosporine. Additional studies are necessary to confirm those results before clinical use.
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