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He Y, Cai Y, Wei D, Cao L, He Q, Zhang Y. Elucidating the mechanisms of formononetin in modulating atherosclerotic plaque formation in ApoE-/- mice. BMC Cardiovasc Disord 2024; 24:121. [PMID: 38388385 PMCID: PMC10882812 DOI: 10.1186/s12872-024-03774-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atherosclerosis(AS) poses a pressing challenge in contemporary medicine. Formononetin (FMN) plays a crucial role in its prevention and treatment. However, the detailed impact of FMN on the stability of atherosclerotic plaques and its underlying mechanisms remain to be elucidated. METHODS An intervention consisting of FMN was given along with a high-fat food regimen in the ApoE-/- mouse model. The investigation included the evaluation of the degree of atherosclerotic lesion, the main components of the plaque, lipid profiles, particular markers indicating M1/M2 macrophage phenotypes, the quantities of factors related to inflammation, the infiltration of macrophages, and the identification of markers linked to the α7nAChR/JAK2/STAT3 axis effect molecules. RESULTS The evaluation of aortic morphology in ApoE-/-mice revealed that FMN significantly improved the plaque area, fibrous cap protrusion, lipid deposition, and structural alterations on the aortic surface, among other markers of atherosclerosis,and there is concentration dependence. Furthermore, the lipid content of mouse serum was assessed, and the results showed that the low-, medium-, and high-dosage FMN groups had significantly lower levels of LDL-C, ox-LDL, TC, and TG. The results of immunohistochemical staining indicated that the low-, medium-, and high-dose FMN therapy groups had enhanced CD206 expression and decreased expression of CD68 and iNOS. According to RT-qPCR data, FMN intervention has the potential to suppress the expression of iNOS, COX-2, miR-155-5p, IL-6, and IL-1β mRNA, while promoting the expression of IL-10, SHIP1, and Arg-1 mRNA levels. However, the degree of inhibition varied among dosage groups. Western blot investigation of JAK/STAT signaling pathway proteins and cholinergic α7nAChR protein showed that p-JAK2 and p-STAT3 protein expression was suppressed at all dosages, whereas α7nAChR protein expression was enhanced. CONCLUSIONS According to the aforementioned findings, FMN can reduce inflammation and atherosclerosis by influencing macrophage polarization, blocking the JAK/STAT signaling pathway, and increasing α7nAChR expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying He
- First Clinical Medical College, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550001, China
| | - Youde Cai
- Jinyang Hospital Affiliated to Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550081, China
| | - Dingling Wei
- First Clinical Medical College, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550001, China
| | - Liping Cao
- First Clinical Medical College, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550001, China
| | - Qiansong He
- First Clinical Medical College, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550001, China.
| | - Yazhou Zhang
- College of Pharmacy, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550025, China.
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Zhang L, Huang X, Gao Y, Li X, Kong Q, Chen Y, Chang J, Zhang G, Ma Y. Herbal formulas for detoxification and dredging collaterals in treating carotid atherosclerosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1147964. [PMID: 38146459 PMCID: PMC10749340 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1147964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective: To systematically evaluate the efficacy and safety of the Chinese medicine detoxification and dredging collaterals in treating carotid atherosclerosis (CAS). Methods: A systematic and comprehensive search of nine relevant domestic and international databases were conducted from their inception until June 2022. The methodological quality of the included trials was evaluated, and the efficacy and safety were comprehensively analyzed. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria to the randomized controlled trials (RCTs), the research quality evaluation and data extraction were conducted, followed by a meta-analysis of the selected articles. The Cochrane's Bias risk assessment was utilized to evaluate the quality of the evidence. Results: Of the 2,660 studies initially retrieved, 14 studies were included, involving a total of 1,518 patients. The results of the meta-analysis indicated that the clinical efficacy of the Detoxification and Collateral Dredging method in the treatment of CAS was superior to that of western medicine treatment alone, and the difference was statistically significant [RR = 1.23, 95% CI (1.13, 1.34)] Furthermore, carotid intima-media thickness [Mean Difference (MD) = -0.10, 95% CI (-0.13, -0.08)] and Crouse plaque score [MD = -0.54, 95% CI (-0.75, -0.32)] were significantly lower in the Detoxification and Collateral Dredging group compared to the pure western medicine treatment group. The difference was statistically significant. In addition, serum total cholesterol [MD = -0.70, 95% CI (-0.85, -0.55)] and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol [MD = -0.70, 95% CI (-0.85, -0.55)] were lower in the Detoxification and Collateral Dredging group than in the Western medicine group, with all differences being statistically significant. Serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol was higher in the Detoxification and Collateral Dredging group compared to the pure western medicine group, and the difference was statistically significant [MD = 0.17, 95% CI (0.11, 0.23)]. Conclusion: The use of Chinese medicine Detoxification and Collateral Dredging approach in the treatment of CAS may offer benefits in improving carotid atherosclerotic plaque and reducing blood lipid levels, with a safety profile superior to that of western medicine treatment alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leyi Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xing Huang
- Department of Neurology, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine Third Affiliated Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yonghong Gao
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xiangyu Li
- Department of Neurology, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Qiao Kong
- Department of Neurology, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Chen
- Department of Global Health, School of Public Health, Health Science Centre, Beijing, China
| | - Jingling Chang
- Department of Neurology, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Genming Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Ma
- Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Liu H, Zhang J, Yan X, An D, Lei H. The Anti-atherosclerosis Mechanism of Ziziphora clinopodioides Lam. Based On Network Pharmacology. Cell Biochem Biophys 2023; 81:515-532. [PMID: 37523140 DOI: 10.1007/s12013-023-01151-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
We investigated the mechanisms underlying the effects of Ziziphora clinopodioides Lam. (ZCL) on atherosclerosis (AS) using network pharmacology and in vitro validation.We collected the active components of ZCL and predicted their targets in AS. We constructed the protein-protein interaction, compound-target, and target-compound-pathway networks, and performed GO and KEGG analyses. Molecular docking of the active components and key targets was constructed with Autodock and Pymol software. Validation was performed with qRT-PCR, ELISA, and Western blot.We obtained 80 components of ZCL. The network analysis identified that 14 components and 37 genes were involved in AS. Then, 10 key nodes in the PPI network were identified as the key targets of ZCL because of their importance in network topology. The binding energy of 8 components (Cynaroside, α-Spinasterol, Linarin, Kaempferide, Acacetin, Genkwanin, Chrysin, and Apiin) to 4 targets (MMP9, TP53, AKT1, SRC) was strong and <-1 kJ/mol. In addition, 13 of the 14 components were flavonoids and thus total flavonoids of Ziziphora clinopodioides Lam. (ZCF) were used for in vitro validation. We found that ZCF reduced eNOS, P22phox, gp91phox, and PCSK9 at mRNA and protein levels, as well as the levels of IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6 proteins in vitro (P < 0.05).We successfully predicted the active components, targets, and mechanisms of ZCL in treating AS using network pharmacology. We confirmed that ZCF may play a role in AS by modulating oxidative stress, lipid metabolism, and inflammatory response via Cynaroside, Linarin, Kaempferide, Acacetin, Genkwanin, Chrysin, and Apiin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongbing Liu
- School of Chinese Pharmacy, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, 102488, Beijing, China
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Xinjiang Medical University, 830011, Urumqi, China
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Famous Prescription and Science of Formulas, 830011, Urumqi, China
| | - Jianxin Zhang
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Xinjiang Medical University, 830011, Urumqi, China
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Famous Prescription and Science of Formulas, 830011, Urumqi, China
| | - Xuehua Yan
- School of Chinese Pharmacy, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, 102488, Beijing, China
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Xinjiang Medical University, 830011, Urumqi, China
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Famous Prescription and Science of Formulas, 830011, Urumqi, China
| | - Dongqing An
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Xinjiang Medical University, 830011, Urumqi, China.
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Famous Prescription and Science of Formulas, 830011, Urumqi, China.
| | - Haimin Lei
- School of Chinese Pharmacy, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, 102488, Beijing, China.
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Jiang P, Ji X, Xia J, Xu M, Hao F, Tong H, Jiao L. Structure and potential anti-fatigue mechanism of polysaccharides from Bupleurum chinense DC. Carbohydr Polym 2023; 306:120608. [PMID: 36746591 DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2023.120608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Two polysaccharides, BCP-1 and BCP-2, were obtained from Bupleurum chinense DC. by water extraction and ultrafiltration. BCP-1 (1.04 × 105 Da) and BCP-2 (2.14 × 104 Da) were composed of Mannose, Rhamnose, Glucose, Galactose, Arabinose, and Galacturonic acid in different proportions. They both contained oligogalacturonides in their main chain. Besides, the backbone of BCP-1 was composed of 4-β-Galp and 4,6-β-Glcp, and branched at C4 of 4,6-β-Glcp. While BCP-2 contained a backbone of 3,5-α-Araf residues with branches at C3. BCP-2 effectively extended the forced swimming time, improved the glycogen reserves and antioxidant system, decreased the levels of blood urea nitrogen, lactic acid, lactate dehydrogenase and creatinine kinase expression. It alleviated physical fatigue through regulating 5'-AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and Nuclear Factor erythroid 2-Related Factor 2 (Nrf2) signalling pathway in skeletal muscles. This study demonstrated that BCP-2 exhibited more effective anti-fatigue activity than BCP-1 potentially associated with its primary and higher structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Jiang
- Agriculture Gene Engineering Research Center of the Ministry of Education, Northeast Normal University, Changchun 130024, China
| | - Xiang Ji
- Department of Chinese Osteo-traumatology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325200, China
| | - Jing Xia
- Agriculture Gene Engineering Research Center of the Ministry of Education, Northeast Normal University, Changchun 130024, China
| | - Mengran Xu
- Jilin Ginseng Academy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun 130117, China
| | - Fang Hao
- Agriculture Gene Engineering Research Center of the Ministry of Education, Northeast Normal University, Changchun 130024, China
| | - Haibin Tong
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Water Environment and Marine Biological Resources Protection, College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou 325035, China.
| | - Lili Jiao
- Jilin Ginseng Academy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun 130117, China.
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5
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Yuan L, Wang D, Zhou Z. LINC00452 overexpression reverses oxLDL-induced injury of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) via regulating miR-194-5p/IGF1R axis. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:975640. [PMID: 36158838 PMCID: PMC9500390 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.975640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
It has been reported that atherosclerosis (AS) is the basis of the development of coronary artery disease (CAD). In addition, a previous study demonstrated that long non-coding RNA LINC00452 was notably downregulated in the whole blood of patients with CAD. However, the role of LINC00452 in the progression of AS remains unclear. Therefore, to mimic AS in vitro, HUVECs were treated with 100 μg/ml oxLDL for 24 h. Reverse transcription-quantitative PCR was performed to detect the expression levels of LINC00452 and IGF1R in HUVECs. Additionally, the cell angiogenetic ability was assessed by tube formation assay, while dual-luciferase reporter assay was carried out to explore the association among LINC00452, miR-194-5p, and IGF1R. The results showed that LINC00452 was downregulated in oxLDL-treated HUVECs. In addition, HUVEC treatment with oxLDL significantly inhibited cell viability, proliferation, and angiogenesis. However, the above effects were all reversed by LINC00452 overexpression. Furthermore, LINC00452 overexpression in HUVECs remarkably inhibited oxLDL-induced cell apoptosis and endothelial to mesenchymal transition. In addition, LINC00452 overexpression could markedly reverse oxLDL-induced inhibition of angiogenesis in HUVEC. The results of dual-luciferase reporter assay indicated that LINC00452 could bind with miR-194-5p. In addition, IGF1R was identified as a downstream target of miR-194-5p. And LINC00452 was able to regulate the miR-194-5p/IGF1R axis in HUVECs. Moreover, LINC00452 overexpression obviously reversed oxLDL-mediated growth inhibition of HUVEC via regulating the miR-194-5p/IGF1R axis. Overall, the current study demonstrated that LINC00452 overexpression reversed oxLDL-induced growth inhibition of HUVECs via regulating the miR-194-5p/IGF1R axis, thus providing a potential beneficial targets for AS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Yuan
- Department of Cardiology, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Dajie Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Yancheng School of Clinical Medicine of Nanjing Medical University (Yancheng Third People's Hospital), Yancheng, China
- *Correspondence: Dajie Wang
| | - Zhaofeng Zhou
- Department of Cardiology, Yancheng School of Clinical Medicine of Nanjing Medical University (Yancheng Third People's Hospital), Yancheng, China
- Zhaofeng Zhou
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Xu R, Yuan W, Wang Z. Advances in Glycolysis Metabolism of Atherosclerosis. J Cardiovasc Transl Res 2022; 16:476-490. [PMID: 36068370 DOI: 10.1007/s12265-022-10311-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Glycolysis is an important way for various cells such as vascular wall endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, macrophages, and other cells to obtain energy. In pathological conditions, it can participate in the process of AS by regulating lipid deposition, calcification, angiogenesis in plaques, etc., together with its metabolite lactic acid. Recent studies have shown that lactate-related lactylation modifications are ubiquitous in the human proteome and are involved in the regulation of various inflammatory diseases. Combined with the distribution and metabolic characteristics of cells in the plaque in the process of AS, glycolysis-lactate-lactylation modification may be a new entry point for targeted intervention in atherosclerosis in the future. Therefore, this article intends to elaborate on the role and mechanism of glycolysis-lactate-lactylation modification in AS, as well as the opportunities and challenges in targeted therapy, hoping to bring some help to relevant scholars in this field. In atherosclerosis, glycolysis, lactate, and lactylation modification as a metabolic sequence affect the functions of macrophages, smooth muscle cells, endothelial cells, lymphocytes, and other cells and interfere with processes such as vascular calcification and intraplaque neovascularization to influence the progression of atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruhan Xu
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212001, China
| | - Wei Yuan
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212001, China
| | - Zhongqun Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212001, China.
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7
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Liu H, Zhu L, Chen L, Li L. Therapeutic potential of traditional Chinese medicine in atherosclerosis: A review. Phytother Res 2022; 36:4080-4100. [PMID: 36029188 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7590] [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: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 07/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is the onset of endothelial cell damage and is characterized by abnormal accumulation of fibrinogen and lipid in large and middle arteries. Recent researches indicate that traditional Chinese medicine including Notoginseng Radix et Rhizoma, Astragali Radix, Salviae Miltiorrhizae Radix et Rhizoma, Ginseng Radix et Rhizoma, Fructus Crataegi, Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma, Polygoni Multiflori Radix, Fructus Lycii, and Coptidis Rhizoma have therapeutic effects on atherosclerosis. Furthermore, the pharmacological roles of these kinds of traditional Chinese medicine in atherosclerosis refer to endothelial function influences, cell proliferation and migration, platelet aggregation, thrombus formation, oxidative stress, inflammation, angiogenesis, apoptosis, autophagy, lipid metabolism, and the gut microbiome. Traditional Chinese medicine may serve as potential and effective anti-atherosclerosis drugs. However, a critical study has shown that Notoginseng Radix et Rhizoma may also have toxic effects including pustules, fever, and elevate circulating neutrophil count. Further high-quality studies are still required to determine the clinical safety and efficacy of traditional Chinese medicine and its active ingredients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huimei Liu
- Institute of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of tumor microenvironment responsive drug research, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Li Zhu
- Institute of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of tumor microenvironment responsive drug research, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Linxi Chen
- Institute of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of tumor microenvironment responsive drug research, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Lanfang Li
- Institute of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of tumor microenvironment responsive drug research, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
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8
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Comparative Pharmacokinetics of Seven Major Compounds in Normal and Atherosclerosis Mice after Oral Administration of Simiao Yong'an Decoction. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2022; 2022:4604601. [PMID: 35529931 PMCID: PMC9071858 DOI: 10.1155/2022/4604601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Simiao Yong'an decoction (SMYAD), a classic traditional Chinese medicine formula, has been used to treat atherosclerosis (AS) in clinical in China, but its therapeutic mechanism and pharmacodynamic material basis are not clear. In this study, the AS model was caused by a high-fat diet and perivascular carotid collar placement (PCCP), and SMYAD was orally administered to the model and normal mice. A rapid, sensitive, selective, and reliable method using ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) system combined with a Q Exactive HF-X mass spectrometer (UHPLC-Q Exactive HF-X MS) was established and validated for the simultaneous determination of seven compounds, including harpagide, chlorogenic acid, swertiamarin, sweroside, angoroside C, liquiritin, and isoliquiritigenin in the plasma of normal and AS mice. The specificity, linearity, precision, accuracy, recovery, and stability of the method were all within the acceptable criteria. The results showed that some pharmacokinetic behaviors of harpagide, chlorogenic acid, and isoliquiritigenin were significantly different among the two groups of mice. The specific parameter changes were harpagide (AUC0–t and AUC0–∞ were 11075.09 ± 2132.38 and 16221.95 ± 5622.42 ng·mL−1·h, respectively; CLz/F was 2.45 ± 0.87 L/h/mg), chlorogenic acid (t1/2 was 21.59 ± 9.16 h; AUC0–∞ was 2637.51 ± 322.54 ng·mL−1·h; CLz/F was 13.49 ± 1.81 L/h/mg) and isoliquiritigenin (AUC0–t and AUC0–∞ were 502.25 ± 165.65 and 653.68 ± 251.34 ng·mL−1·h, respectively; CLz/F was 62.16 ± 23.35 L/h/mg) were altered under the pathological status of AS. These differences might be partly ascribed to the changes in gastrointestinal microbiota, nonspecific drug transporters, and cytochrome P450 activity under the AS state, providing research ideas and experimental basis for pharmacological effects and pharmacodynamic material basis.
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Li QF, Lu WT, Zhang Q, Zhao YD, Wu CY, Zhou HF. Proprietary Medicines Containing Bupleurum chinense DC. (Chaihu) for Depression: Network Meta-Analysis and Network Pharmacology Prediction. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:773537. [PMID: 35462897 PMCID: PMC9019785 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.773537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims: The rapid development of society has resulted in great competitive pressures, leading to the increase in suicide rates as well as incidence and recurrence of depression in recent years. Proprietary Chinese medicines containing Bupleurum chinense DC. (Chaihu) are widely used in clinical practice. This study aimed at evaluating the efficacy and safety of oral proprietary Chinese medicines containing Chaihu for treating depression by network meta-analysis (NMA) and exploring the potential pharmacological mechanisms of the optimal drugs obtained based on NMA. Methods: This study searched for clinical randomized controlled trial studies (RCTs) about Chaihu-containing products alone or in combination with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRI), and cyclic antidepressants (CAS) for depression in eight databases. The search deadline is from data inception to April 2021. For efficacy assessment, the clinical response rate, the Hamilton Depression Scale-17 (HAMD-17), and adverse reactions were calculated. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed for risk of bias following the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions, and the data were subjected to NMA via the Stata version 16.0 software. Subsequently, the optimal drug obtained from the NMA results, Danzhi Xiaoyao pill (DZXY), was used to conduct network pharmacology analysis. We searched databases to acquire bioactive and potential targets of DZXY and depression-related targets. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) network, component-target network, the Gene Ontology (GO), and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis were performed by the STRING database, Cytoscape 3.9.0 software, and R version 4.1.2, respectively. Results: Thirty-seven RCTs, with a total of 3,263 patients, involving seven oral proprietary Chinese medicines containing Chaihu, were finally included. The results of the NMA demonstrated that the top four interventions with the best efficiency were Jiawei Xiaoyao + SSRI, DZXY + SNRI, Xiaoyao pill + SSRI, and Jieyu pill + SNRI; the top four interventions reducing HAMD score were DZXY + SNRI, Jiawei Xiaoyao, Jieyu pill, and Puyu pill + SNRI; the top four interventions with the least adverse effects were Jieyu pill, Anle pill + SSRI, DZXY + SNRI, and Puyu pill + SNRI. In the aspects above, DZXY + SNRI performed better than other treatments. After network meta-analysis, we conducted a network pharmacology-based strategy on the optimal drugs, DZXY, to provide the pharmacological basis for a conclusion. A total of 147 active compounds and 248 targets in DZXY were identified, of which 175 overlapping targets related to depression. Bioinformatics analysis revealed that MAPK3, JUN, MAPK14, MYC, MAPK1, etc. could become potential therapeutic targets. The MAPK signaling pathway might play an essential role in DZXY against depression. Conclusion: This is the very first systematic review and network meta-analysis evaluating different oral proprietary Chinese medicines containing Chaihu in depressive disorder. This study suggested that the combination of proprietary Chinese medicines containing Chaihu with antidepressants was generally better than antidepressant treatment. The incidence of adverse reactions with antidepressants alone was higher than that with proprietary Chinese medicines containing Chaihu alone or in combination with antidepressants. DZXY + SNRI showed significantly better results in efficacy, HAMD scores, and safety. The antidepressant effect of DZXY may be related to its regulation of neuroinflammation and apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiao-feng Li
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Wen-tian Lu
- The First Clinical Medical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Qing Zhang
- The First Clinical Medical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yan-dong Zhao
- Department of Science and Technology, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Cheng-yu Wu
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
- *Correspondence: Cheng-yu Wu, ; Hui-fang Zhou,
| | - Hui-fang Zhou
- Department of Gynaecology, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
- *Correspondence: Cheng-yu Wu, ; Hui-fang Zhou,
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10
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Targeting Reactive Oxygen Species in Atherosclerosis via Chinese Herbal Medicines. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2022; 2022:1852330. [PMID: 35047104 PMCID: PMC8763505 DOI: 10.1155/2022/1852330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Cardio-cerebrovascular disease (CCVD) has become the leading cause of human mortality with the coming acceleration of global population aging. Atherosclerosis is among the most common pathological changes in CCVDs. It is also a multifactorial disorder; oxidative stress caused by excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) has become an important mechanism of atherosclerosis. Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) is a major type of natural medicine that has made great contributions to human health. CHMs are increasingly used in the auxiliary clinical treatment of atherosclerosis. Although their mechanism of action is unclear, CHMs can exert a variety of antiatherosclerosis effects by regulating intracellular ROS. In this review, we discussed the mechanism of ROS regulation in atherosclerosis and analyzed the role of CHMs in the treatment of atherosclerosis via ROS.
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Sun L, He X, Zhang T, Han Y, Tao G. Knockdown of mesenchymal stem cell‑derived exosomal LOC100129516 suppresses the symptoms of atherosclerosis via upregulation of the PPARγ/LXRα/ABCA1 signaling pathway. Int J Mol Med 2021; 48:208. [PMID: 34608501 PMCID: PMC8510681 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2021.5041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy has potential applications in treating atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease (CAD). Previous studies have demonstrated that MSCs are the most preferable sources of therapeutic exosomes, which carry long non‑coding RNAs and participate in the progression of atherosclerosis. The results of our previous bioinformatics study demonstrated that the levels of LOC100129516 were significantly upregulated in peripheral blood mononuclear cells obtained from patients with CAD. However, the biological role of LOC100129516 in the development of atherosclerosis remains to be elucidated. In the present study, THP‑1 cells were treated with oxidized low‑density lipoproteins to induce foam cell formation in vitro. Reverse transcription‑quantitative PCR (RT‑qPCR) was performed to detect the levels of LOC100129516 in THP‑1 macrophage‑derived foam cells. In addition, an in vivo model of atherosclerosis was established using Apolipoprotein E (ApoE) knockout (ApoE‑/‑) mice. The results of the RT‑qPCR assays demonstrated that the levels of LOC100129516 were upregulated in THP‑1 macrophage‑derived foam cells. MSC‑derived exosomes were able to deliver small interfering (si)‑LOC100129516 to THP‑1 cells to reduce the levels of LOC100129516. Moreover, transfection of si‑LOC100129516 via exosomal delivery significantly decreased the levels of total cholesterol (TC), free cholesterol and cholesterol ester in THP‑1 macrophage‑derived foam cells. Exosomal‑mediated delivery of si‑LOC100129516 decreased TC levels and low‑density lipoprotein levels in the ApoE‑/‑ atherosclerosis mouse model. Mechanistically, exosomal‑mediated delivery of si‑LOC100129516 promoted cholesterol efflux by activating the peroxisome proliferator‑activated receptor γ (PPARγ)/liver X receptor α (LXRα)/phospholipid‑transporting ATPase ABCA1 (ABCA1) signaling pathway in vitro and in vivo. Collectively, these results suggested that exosomal‑mediated delivery of si‑LOC100129516, in which the exosomes were derived from MSCs, promoted cholesterol efflux and suppressed intracellular lipid accumulation, ultimately alleviating the progression of atherosclerosis via stimulation of the PPARγ/LXRα/ABCA1 signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Limin Sun
- Department of Medicine, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, P.R. China
- Department of General Practice, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning 121001, P.R. China
| | - Xin He
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning 121001, P.R. China
| | - Tao Zhang
- Department of General Practice, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning 121001, P.R. China
| | - Yaling Han
- Department of Cardiology, General Hospital of Northern Theater Command, Shenyang, Liaoning 110016, P.R. China
| | - Guizhou Tao
- Department of Medicine, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, P.R. China
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning 121001, P.R. China
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12
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Feng Z, Wang C, Jin Y, Meng Q, Wu J, Sun H. Kaempferol-induced GPER upregulation attenuates atherosclerosis via the PI3K/AKT/Nrf2 pathway. PHARMACEUTICAL BIOLOGY 2021; 59:1106-1116. [PMID: 34403325 PMCID: PMC8436971 DOI: 10.1080/13880209.2021.1961823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT The effect of kaempferol, a regulator of oestrogen receptors, on atherosclerosis (AS) and the underlying mechanism is elusive. OBJECTIVE To explore the effect and mechanism of kaempferol on AS. METHODS AND MATERIALS In vivo, C57BL/6 and apolipoprotein E (APOE)-/- mice were randomly categorized into six groups (C57BL/6: control, ovariectomy (OVX), high-fat diet (HFD); APOE-/-: OVX-HFD, OVX-HFD + kaempferol (50 mg/kg) and OVX-HFD + kaempferol (100 mg/kg) and administered with kaempferol for 16 weeks, intragastrically. Oil-Red and haematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining were employed to examine the effect of kaempferol. In vitro, human aortic endothelial cells (HAECs) were pre-treated with or without kaempferol (5, 10 or 20 μM), followed by administration with kaempferol and oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) (200 μg/mL). The effect of kaempferol was evaluated using flow cytometry, and TdT-mediated dUTP Nick-End Labelling (TUNEL). RESULTS In vivo, kaempferol (50 and 100 mg/kg) normalized the morphology of blood vessels and lipid levels and suppressed inflammation and apoptosis. It also activated the G protein-coupled oestrogen receptor (GPER) and PI3K/AKT/nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathways. In vitro, ox-LDL (200 μg/mL) reduced the cell viability to 50% (IC50). Kaempferol (5, 10 or 20 μM) induced-GPER activation increased cell viability to nearly 10%, 19.8%, 30%, and the decreased cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation (16.7%, 25.6%, 31.1%), respectively, consequently attenuating postmenopausal AS. However, the protective effects of kaempferol were blocked through co-treatment with si-GPER. CONCLUSIONS The beneficial effects of kaempferol against postmenopausal AS are associated with the PI3K/AKT/Nrf2 pathways, mediated by the activation of GPER.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuo Feng
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Changyuan Wang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Yue Jin
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Qiang Meng
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Jingjing Wu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Huijun Sun
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
- CONTACT Huijun Sun Department of Clinical Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Dalian Medical University, 9 West Section, Lvshun South Road, Lvshunkou District, Dalian116044, China
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13
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Chen S, Wu X, Li T, Li Y, Wang B, Cheng W, Teng Y, Yang J, Meng H, Wang L, Lu Z, Jiang Y, Wang Y, Zhao M. Atheroprotective Effects and Mechanisms of Postmarketing Chinese Patent Formulas in Atherosclerosis Models: A Systematic Review. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2021; 2021:4010607. [PMID: 34873408 PMCID: PMC8643251 DOI: 10.1155/2021/4010607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Revised: 10/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Some postmarketing Chinese patent formulas have been widely used to treat atherosclerosis (AS) and play critical roles in Chinese healthcare. However, the usage of these herbs is yet controversial due to unclear effects and lack of understanding of the mechanism of action. With the modernization of traditional Chinese formulas, we are to elucidate the atheroprotective properties of these remedies from successful postmarketing experiments in vivo. METHODS In this systematic review, we critically searched the databases, applied stringent criteria, assessed the methodological quality, and examined the current evidence in vivo. RESULTS Consequently, 60 studies were included in the present qualitative synthesis. Data on models, high-fat diet, intervention time, outcome measures, efficacy, and mechanisms were collected. Finally, 23 formulas that could alleviate AS were correlated to the amelioration of plaques, improvement of plaque stability, modification of lipid level and lipid metabolism, and the effects of anti-inflammation and antioxidant stress with multiple components and targets. However, the methodological quality was low and incomplete among the included literature. CONCLUSIONS Thus, taken together, the studies on postmarketing Chinese patent formulas would provide a novel approach to improve the treatment of AS, and rigorously designed studies would provide high-quality evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiqi Chen
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine of Ministry of Education and Beijing, Dongzhimen Hospital Affiliated to Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100700, China
- Department of Cardiology, Dongzhimen Hospital Affiliated to Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Wu
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine of Ministry of Education and Beijing, Dongzhimen Hospital Affiliated to Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Tong Li
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine of Ministry of Education and Beijing, Dongzhimen Hospital Affiliated to Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Yang Li
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine of Ministry of Education and Beijing, Dongzhimen Hospital Affiliated to Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Baofu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine of Ministry of Education and Beijing, Dongzhimen Hospital Affiliated to Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100700, China
- Department of Cardiology, Dongzhimen Hospital Affiliated to Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Weiting Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine of Ministry of Education and Beijing, Dongzhimen Hospital Affiliated to Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Yu Teng
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine of Ministry of Education and Beijing, Dongzhimen Hospital Affiliated to Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Jingjing Yang
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine of Ministry of Education and Beijing, Dongzhimen Hospital Affiliated to Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Hui Meng
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine of Ministry of Education and Beijing, Dongzhimen Hospital Affiliated to Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine of Ministry of Education and Beijing, Dongzhimen Hospital Affiliated to Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Ziwen Lu
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine of Ministry of Education and Beijing, Dongzhimen Hospital Affiliated to Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Yangyang Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine of Ministry of Education and Beijing, Dongzhimen Hospital Affiliated to Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Yahong Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Dongzhimen Hospital Affiliated to Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Mingjing Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine of Ministry of Education and Beijing, Dongzhimen Hospital Affiliated to Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100700, China
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Ma CY, Shi XY, Wu YR, Zhang Y, Yao YH, Qu HL, Zhang W, Guo YL, Xu RX, Li JJ. Berberine attenuates atherosclerotic lesions and hepatic steatosis in ApoE -/- mice by down-regulating PCSK9 via ERK1/2 pathway. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2021; 9:1517. [PMID: 34790723 PMCID: PMC8576642 DOI: 10.21037/atm-20-8106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Background It has been demonstrated that berberine (BBR), a kind of alkaloid derived from Chinese herbal medicine, has multiple pharmacological effects on human’s diseases including anti-atherosclerosis action. However, although the previous studies showed that the beneficial impact of BBR on atherosclerosis might be associated with proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9), the exact underlying mechanism are not fully determined. The present study aimed to investigate potential mechanisms of anti-atherosclerosis by BBR using ApoE-/- mice. Methods The eight-week mice were divided into five groups: group 1 (wild type C57BL/6J mice with normal diet), group 2 (ApoE-/- mice with normal diet), group 3 [ApoE-/- mice with high-fat diet (HFD)], group 4 (ApoE-/- mice with HFD, and treatment with low dose BBR of 50 mg/kg/d), and group 5 (ApoE-/- mice with HFD, and treatment with high dose BBR of 100 mg/kg/d). After a 16-week treatment, the blood sample, aorta and liver were collected for lipid analysis, hematoxylin-eosin (HE) or oil red O staining, and Western blotting respectively. Besides, HepG2 Cells were cultured and treated with different concentrations of BBR (0, 5, 25 and 50 µg/mL) for 24 hours. Subsequently, cells were collected for real-time PCR or western blotting assays. Finally, the expression levels of PCSK9, LDL receptor (LDLR), ATP-binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1), ATP-binding cassette transporter G1 (ABCG1), and scavenger receptor class B type I (SR-BI) were examined. Results Fifty mg/kg/d and 100 mg/kg/d of BBR decreased total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol (LDL-C), and increased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) level. Moreover, BBR reduced aorta atherosclerotic plaque, and ameliorated lipid deposition in ApoE-/- mice fed with HFD. Finally, in vitro study showed that BBR promoted intracellular cholesterol efflux, up-regulated LDLR and down-regulated PCSK9 expression via the ERK1/2 pathway in cultured HepG2 cells. Conclusions Data indicated that BBR significantly attenuated lipid disorder, reduced aortic plaque formation, and alleviated hepatic lipid accumulation in ApoE-/- mice fed with HFD, which was associated with down-regulation of PCSK9 through ERK1/2 pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Yan Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, National Center for Cardiovascular Disease, Fu Wai Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xiao-Yun Shi
- Division of Endocrinology, Beijing Chaoyang Integrative Medicine Emergency Medical Center, Beijing, China
| | - Ya-Ru Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, National Center for Cardiovascular Disease, Fu Wai Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yue Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, National Center for Cardiovascular Disease, Fu Wai Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yu-Hong Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, National Center for Cardiovascular Disease, Fu Wai Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Hui-Lin Qu
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, National Center for Cardiovascular Disease, Fu Wai Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, National Center for Cardiovascular Disease, Fu Wai Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yuan-Lin Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, National Center for Cardiovascular Disease, Fu Wai Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Rui-Xia Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, National Center for Cardiovascular Disease, Fu Wai Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jian-Jun Li
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, National Center for Cardiovascular Disease, Fu Wai Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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15
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Zhang B, Hao Z, Zhou W, Zhang S, Sun M, Li H, Hou N, Jing C, Zhao M. Formononetin protects against ox-LDL-induced endothelial dysfunction by activating PPAR-γ signaling based on network pharmacology and experimental validation. Bioengineered 2021; 12:4887-4898. [PMID: 34369277 PMCID: PMC8806800 DOI: 10.1080/21655979.2021.1959493] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Formononetin (FMNT), a flavonoid identified from the Chinese herb Astragalus membranaceus, possesses anti-inflammatory or anti-oxidative properties in different human diseases. This study aims to comprehensively elucidate the function of FMNT in atherosclerosis and its underlying mechanisms. Online public databases were used to identify the drug-disease targets. Protein–protein interaction (PPI), Gene Ontology (GO), and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment were applied to explore the potential targets and signaling pathways involved in FMNT against atherosclerosis. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were exposed to oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) to construct an atherosclerosis cell model in vitro. Endothelial cell function was assessed via examining cell proliferation, inflammatory factors, oxidative markers, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and apoptosis. Western blot was performed to detect the expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), cleaved caspase-3, and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPAR-γ). A total of 39 overlapping target genes of FMNT and atherosclerosis were identified. Through the PPI network analysis, 14 hub genes were screened and found to be closely relevant to inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis. Results of KEGG pathway assays indicated that lots of targets were enriched in PPAR signaling. Functionally, FMNT could protect against ox-LDL-induced inflammatory reaction, oxidative stress, and apoptosis in HUVECs. Moreover, FMNT attenuated ox-LDL-mediated inactivation of PPAR-γ signaling. GW9662, a PPAR-γ antagonist, reversed the inhibitory effect of FMNT on ox-LDL-induced endothelial injury. In conclusion, FMNT alleviates ox-LDL-induced endothelial injury in HUVECs by stimulating PPAR-γ signaling, providing a theoretical basis for employing FMNT as a potential drug to combat atherosclerosis. Abbreviations: FMNT: formononetin; PPI: protein–protein interaction; GO: Gene Ontology; KEGG: Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes; HUVECs: human umbilical vein endothelial cells; ox-LDL: oxidized low-density lipoprotein; COX-2: cyclooxygenase-2; eNOS: endothelial nitric oxide synthase; PPAR-γ: peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ; CVD: cardiovascular disease; TCM: traditional Chinese medicines; OGDR: oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation; ROS: reactive oxygen species; FBS: fetal bovine serum; CCK-8: cell counting kit-8; EdU: 5-Ethynyl-2ʹ-deoxyuridine; SOD: antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase; MDA: malondialdehyde; DCFH-DA: 2ʹ,7ʹ-dichlorofluorescein-diacetate; PVDF: polyvinylidene fluoride; ANOVA: one-way analysis of variance; PPARs: peroxisome proliferation-activated receptors
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Affiliation(s)
- Baohua Zhang
- Department of Health Care, The Second Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhongwei Hao
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, No. 906 Hospital of PLA, Ningbo, China
| | - Wenli Zhou
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Shan Zhang
- Department of Fuxing Road Outpatient, Jingnan Medical District, Chinese PLA General Hospital Beijing, Beijing, China
| | - Mingyan Sun
- Department of Health Care, The Second Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Honglei Li
- Department of Fuxing Road Outpatient, Jingnan Medical District, Chinese PLA General Hospital Beijing, Beijing, China
| | - Naijing Hou
- Department of Health Care, The Second Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Cui Jing
- Department of Health Care, The Second Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Mingxing Zhao
- Department of Health Care, The Second Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
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16
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Salvia miltiorrhiza and the Volatile of Dalbergia odorifera Attenuate Chronic Myocardial Ischemia Injury in a Pig Model: A Metabonomic Approach for the Mechanism Study. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2021; 2021:8840896. [PMID: 34007406 PMCID: PMC8099511 DOI: 10.1155/2021/8840896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Revised: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Salvia miltiorrhiza (SM) coupled with Dalbergia odorifera (DO) has been used to relieve cardiovascular diseases in China for many years. Our previous studies have integrated that SM—the volatile oil of DO (SM-DOO)—has a cardioprotective effect on chronic myocardial ischemia based on a pharmacological method, but the cardioprotective mechanism has not been elucidated completely in the metabonomic method. In the present study, a metabonomic method based on high-performance liquid chromatography time-of-flight mass spectrometry (HPLC-Q-TOF-MS) was performed to evaluate the effects of SM-DOO on chronic myocardial ischemia induced by an ameroid constrictor, which was placed on the left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) of pigs. Pigs were divided into three groups: sham, model, and SM-DOO group. With multivariate analysis, a clear cluster among the different groups was obtained and the potential biomarkers were recognized. These biomarkers were mainly related to energy metabolism, glucose metabolism, and fatty acid metabolism. Furthermore, the protein expressions of phosphorylated AMP-activated protein kinase (p-AMPK) and glucose transporter-4 (GLUT4) were significantly upregulated by SM-DOO. The result indicated that SM-DOO could regulate the above biomarkers and metabolic pathways, especially energy metabolism and glucose metabolism. By analyzing and verifying the biomarkers and metabolic pathways, further understanding of the cardioprotective effect of SM-DOO with its mechanism was evaluated. Metabonomic is a reliable system biology approach for understanding the cardioprotective effects of SM-DOO on chronic myocardial ischemia and elucidating the mechanism underlying this protective effect.
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Zhang X, Chen X, Wang L, He C, Shi Z, Fu Q, Xu W, Zhang S, Hu S. Review of the Efficacy and Mechanisms of Traditional Chinese Medicines as a Therapeutic Option for Ionizing Radiation Induced Damage. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:617559. [PMID: 33658941 PMCID: PMC7917257 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.617559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Ionizing radiation damage refers to acute, delayed, or chronic tissue damage associated with ionizing radiation. Specific or effective therapeutic options for systemic injuries induced by ionizing radiation have not been developed. Studies have shown that Chinese herbal Medicine or Chinese Herbal Prescription exhibit preventive properties against radiation damage. These medicines inhibit tissue injuries and promote repair with very minimal side effects. This study reviews traditional Chinese herbal medicines and prescriptions with radiation protective effects as well as their mechanisms of action. The information obtained will guide the development of alternative radioprotectants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaomeng Zhang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoying Chen
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Lei Wang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Changhao He
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Zhongyu Shi
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Qian Fu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Wenhui Xu
- Beijing Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Shujing Zhang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Sumin Hu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
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18
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Wu X, Wang Z, Wu G, Xu X, Zhang J, Li Y, Zhang H, Guo S. Tetramethylpyrazine Induces Apoptosis and Inhibits Proliferation of Hypertrophic Scar-Derived Fibroblasts via Inhibiting the Phosphorylation of AKT. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:602. [PMID: 32431617 PMCID: PMC7214921 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2019] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypertrophic scar (HS) is a serious fibrotic skin disease and often considered as a kind of benign skin tumor. Tetramethylpyrazine (TMP), the main chemical composition of the traditional Chinese medicine Chuanxiong Rhizoma, has shown significant clinical benefits in the treatment of fibrosis disease and tumor, while the role in HS and the concrete mechanisms remain elusive. Herein, the protective effects of TMP in the treatment of HS was investigated and the results showed that the protein expression levels of type I collagen (Col I), type III collagen (Col III), and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) were all inhibited remarkably after addition of TMP in HS-derived fibroblasts (HFs). Moreover, TMP also suppressed fibroblast proliferative and induced cell apoptosis. The protein expression levels of Caspase-3 and Bcl-2 were all decreased comparing with the control group while proapoptotic proteins Bax and Cleaved Caspase-3 were increased. In addition, TMP treatment markedly reduced the phosphorylation levels of AKT. Taken together, our investigations demonstrated that TMP could down-regulate the expression of fibrosis-related molecules, inhibit scar fibroblast proliferation and activate cell apoptosis, during which AKT pathway was involved. Thus, this study shed more light on the pharmacological mechanisms of TMP, and provided a novel therapeutic alternative for prevention and treatment of HS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Wu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.,Medical Experiment Center, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, China
| | - Zheng Wang
- Shaanxi Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, China
| | - Gaofeng Wu
- The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xiaofan Xu
- Medical Experiment Center, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, China
| | - Jian Zhang
- Department of Burns and Cutaneous Surgery, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Burns and Cutaneous Surgery, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Medical Experiment Center, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, China
| | - Shuzhen Guo
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
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NLRP3 Inflammasome: A Potential Alternative Therapy Target for Atherosclerosis. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2020; 2020:1561342. [PMID: 32328119 PMCID: PMC7150718 DOI: 10.1155/2020/1561342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Revised: 02/21/2020] [Accepted: 03/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Atherosclerosis (AS) is a complex and chronic inflammatory disease that occurs in multiple systems of the human body. It is an important pathological basis for a variety of diseases and a serious threat to human health. So far, many theories have been formed to explain the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis, among which “inflammation theory” has gradually become a research focus. This theory presents that inflammatory response runs through the whole progress of AS, inflammatory cells play as the main executors of AS, and inflammatory mediators are the key molecules of AS. In the inflammatory process of atherosclerosis, the role of NLRP3 in the atherosclerosis has gradually got the attention of researchers. NLRP3 is a kind of signal-transductional pattern recognition receptors (PRRs). After recognizing and binding to the damage factors, NLRP3 inflammasome will be assembled to activate IL-1β and caspase-1 pathways, resulting in promoting the inflammation process of AS, reducing the stability of the plaques, and finally increasing the incidence of adverse cardiovascular events. Taken above, the article will review the potential benefits of drugs targeting the NLRP3 inflammasome in the therapy of AS.
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