Effect and mechanism of salvianolic acid B on the myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury in rats

Multimodal modulation of hepatic ischemia/reperfusion-induced injury by phytochemical agents: A mechanistic evaluation of hepatoprotective potential and safety profiles

BACKGROUND

Hepatic ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury is a clinically fundamental phenomenon that occurs through liver resection surgery, trauma, shock, and transplantation.

AIMS OF THE REVIEW

This review article affords an expanded and comprehensive overview of various natural herbal ingredients that have demonstrated hepatoprotective effects against I/R injury through preclinical studies in animal models.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

For the objective of this investigation, an extensive examination was carried out utilizing diverse scientific databases involving PubMed, Google Scholar, Science Direct, Egyptian Knowledge Bank (EKB), and Research Gate. The investigation was conducted based on specific identifiable terms, such as hepatic ischemia/reperfusion injury, liver resection and transplantation, cytokines, inflammation, NF-kB, interleukins, herbs, plants, natural ingredients, phenolic extract, and aqueous extract.

RESULTS

Bioactive ingredients derived from ginseng, curcumin, resveratrol, epigallocatechin gallate, quercetin, lycopene, punicalagin, crocin, celastrol, andrographolide, silymarin, and others and their effects on hepatic IRI were discussed. The specific mechanisms of action, signaling pathways, and clinical relevance for attenuation of liver enzymes, cytokine production, immune cell infiltration, oxidative damage, and cell death signaling in rodent studies are analyzed in depth. Their complex molecular actions involve modulation of pathways like TLR4, NF-κB, Nrf2, Bcl-2 family proteins, and others.

CONCLUSION

The natural ingredients have promising values in the protection and treatment of various chronic aggressive clinical conditions, and that need to be evaluated on humans by clinical studies.

Chinese Medicine-Derived Salvianolic Acid B for Disease Therapy: A Scientometric Study

Salvianolic acid B (SalB), among the most abundant bioactive polyphenolic compounds found in Salvia miltiorrhiza Bge., exerts therapeutic and protective effects against various diseases. Although some summaries of the activities of SalB exist, there is lack of a scientometric and in-depth review regarding disease therapy. In this review, scientometrics was employed to analyze the number of articles, publication trends, countries, institutions, keywords, and highly cited papers pertaining to SalB research. The scientometric findings showed that SalB exerts excellent protective effects on the heart, lungs, liver, bones, and brain, along with significant therapeutic effects against atherosclerosis (AS), Alzheimer's disease (AD), liver fibrosis, diabetes, heart/brain ischemia, and osteoporosis, by regulating signaling pathways and acting on specific molecular targets. Moreover, this review delves into in-depth insights and perspectives, such as the utilization of SalB in combination with other drugs, the validation of molecular mechanisms and targets, and the research and development of novel drug carriers and dosage forms. In conclusion, this review aimed to offer a comprehensive scientometric analysis and in-depth appraisal of SalB research, encompassing both present achievements and future prospects, thereby providing a valuable resource for the clinical application and therapeutic exploitation of SalB.

Study on therapeutic mechanism of total salvianolic acids against myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury based on network pharmacology, molecular docking, and experimental study

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Radix Salviae miltiorrhizae, also known as Danshen in Chinese, effectively activates the blood and resolves stasis. Total salvianolic acids (SA) is the main active ingredient of Danshen, and related preparations, such as salvianolate injection are commonly used clinically to treat myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury (MIRI). However, the potential targets and key active ingredients of SA have not been sufficiently investigated.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to investigate the mechanism of action of SA in treating MIRI.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Network pharmacology and molecular docking techniques were used to predict SA targets against MIRI. The key acting pathway of SA were validated by performing experiments in a rat MIRI model.

RESULTS

Twenty potential ingredients and 54 targets of SA in treating MIRI were identified. Ingredient-target-pathway network analysis revealed that salvianolic acid B and rosmarinic acid had the highest degree value. Pathway enrichment analysis showed that SA may regulate MIRI through the IL-17 signaling pathway, and this result was confirmed in the rat MIRI experiment.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study indicate that SA may protect MIRI by regulating the IL-17 pathway.

Prospect of research on anti-atherosclerosis effect of main components of traditional Chinese medicine Yiqi Huoxue Huatan recipe through gut microbiota: A review

The incidence and mortality rates of cardiovascular diseases are on the rise globally, posing a severe threat to human health. Atherosclerosis (AS) is considered a multi-factorial inflammatory disease and the main pathological basis of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, as well as the leading cause of death. Dysbiosis of the gut microbiota can induce and exacerbate inflammatory reactions, accelerate metabolic disorders and immune function decline, and affect the progression and prognosis of AS-related diseases. The Chinese herbal medicine clinicians frequently utilize Yiqi Huoxue Huatan recipe, an effective therapeutic approach for the management of AS. This article reviews the correlation between the main components of Yiqi Huoxue Huatan recipe and the gut microbiota and AS to provide new directions and a theoretical basis for the prevention and treatment of AS.

Targeting oxidative stress as a preventive and therapeutic approach for cardiovascular disease

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) continue to exert a significant impact on global mortality rates, encompassing conditions like pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), atherosclerosis (AS), and myocardial infarction (MI). Oxidative stress (OS) plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis and advancement of CVDs, highlighting its significance as a contributing factor. Maintaining an equilibrium between reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidant systems not only aids in mitigating oxidative stress but also confers protective benefits on cardiac health. Herbal monomers can inhibit OS in CVDs by activating multiple signaling pathways, such as increasing the activity of endogenous antioxidant systems and decreasing the level of ROS expression. Given the actions of herbal monomers to significantly protect the normal function of the heart and reduce the damage caused by OS to the organism. Hence, it is imperative to recognize the significance of herbal monomers as prospective therapeutic interventions for mitigating oxidative damage in CVDs. This paper aims to comprehensively review the origins and mechanisms underlying OS, elucidate the intricate association between CVDs and OS, and explore the therapeutic potential of antioxidant treatment utilizing herbal monomers. Furthermore, particular emphasis will be placed on examining the cardioprotective effects of herbal monomers by evaluating their impact on cardiac signaling pathways subsequent to treatment.

Protective effects of salvianolic acid B on intestinal ischemia/reperfusion injury in rats by regulating the AhR/IL-22/STAT6 axis

PURPOSE

Intestinal ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury (IIRI) is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Salvianolic acid B (Sal-B) could exert neuroprotective effects on reperfusion injury after cerebral vascular occlusion, but its effect on IIRI remains unclear. This study set out to investigate the protective effects of Sal-B on IIRI in rats.

METHODS

The rat IIRI model was established by occluding the superior mesenteric artery and reperfusion, and they were pretreated with Sal-B and aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) antagonist CH-223191 before surgery. Pathological changes in rat ileum, IIRI degree, and intestinal cell apoptosis were evaluated through hematoxylin-eosin staining, Chiu's score scale, and TUNEL staining, together with the determination of caspase-3, AhR protein level in the nucleus, and STAT6 phosphorylation by Western blotting. The levels of inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β/IL-6/TNF-α) and IL-22 were determined by ELISA and RT-qPCR. The contents of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH), and malondialdehyde (MDA) in intestinal tissues were determined by spectrophotometry.

RESULTS

Sal-B alleviated IIRI in rats, evidenced by slight villi shedding and villi edema, reduced Chiu's score, and diminished the number of TUNEL-positive cells and caspase-3 expression. SAL-B alleviated inflammation and oxidative stress (OS) responses induced by IIRI. Sal-B promoted IL-22 secretion by activating AhR in intestinal tissue after IIRI. Inhibition of AhR activation partially reversed the protective effect of Sal-B on IIRI. Sal-B promoted STAT6 phosphorylation by activating the AhR/IL-22 axis.

CONCLUSION

Sal-B plays a protective role against IIRI in rats by activating the AhR/IL-22/STAT6 axis, which may be achieved by reducing the intestinal inflammatory response and OS responses.

Natural compounds regulate the PI3K/Akt/GSK3β pathway in myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury

The PI3K/Akt/GSK3β pathway is crucial in regulating cardiomyocyte growth and survival. It has been shown that activation of this pathway alleviates the negative impact of ischemia-reperfusion. Glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK3β) induces apoptosis through stimulation of transcription factors, and its phosphorylation has been suggested as a new therapeutic target for myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury (MIRI). GSK3β regulatory role is mediated by the reperfusion injury salvage kinase (RISK) pathway, and its inhibition by Akt activation blocks mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) opening and enhances myocardial survival. The present article discusses the involvement of the PI3K/Akt/GSK3β pathway in cardioprotective effects of natural products against MIRI.Abbreviations: Akt: protein kinase B; AMPK: AMP-activated protein kinase; ATP: adenosine triphosphate; Bad: bcl2-associated agonist of cell death; Bax: bcl2-associated x protein; Bcl-2: B-cell lymphoma 2; CK-MB: Creatine kinase-MB; CRP: C-reactive-protein; cTnI: cardiac troponin I; EGCG: Epigallocatechin-3-gallate; Enos: endothelial nitric oxide synthase; ER: endoplasmic reticulum; ERK ½: extracellular signal‑regulated protein kinase ½; GSK3β: glycogen synthase kinase-3; GSRd: Ginsenoside Rd; GSH: glutathione; GSSG: glutathione disulfide; HO-1: heme oxygenase-1; HR: hypoxia/reoxygenation; HSYA: Hydroxysafflor Yellow A; ICAM-1: Intercellular Adhesion Molecule 1; IKK-b: IκB kinase; IL: interleukin; IPoC: Ischemic postconditioning; IRI: ischemia-reperfusion injury; JNK: c-Jun N-terminal kinase; Keap1: kelch-like ECH-associated protein- 1; LDH: lactate dehydrogenase; LVEDP: left ventricular end diastolic pressure; LVP: left ventricle pressure; LVSP: left ventricular systolic pressure; MAPK: mitogen-activated protein kinase; MDA: malondialdehyde; MIRI: myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury; MnSOD: manganese superoxide dismutase; mPTP: mitochondrial permeability transition pore; mtHKII: mitochondria-bound hexokinase II; Nrf-1: nuclear respiratory factor 1; Nrf2: nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor; NO: nitric oxide; PGC-1α: peroxisome proliferator‑activated receptor γ coactivator‑1α; PI3K: phosphoinositide 3-kinases; RISK: reperfusion injury salvage kinase; ROS: reactive oxygen species; RSV: Resveratrol; SOD: superoxide dismutase; TFAM: transcription factor A mitochondrial; TNF-α: tumor necrosis factor-alpha; VEGF-B: vascular endothelial growth factor B.

An Integrated Strategy to Identify and Quantify the Quality Markers of Xinkeshu Tablets Based on Spectrum-Effect Relationship, Network Pharmacology, Plasma Pharmacochemistry, and Pharmacodynamics of Zebrafish

Xinkeshu tablets (XKST), a traditional Chinese patent medicine (CPM), have served in the clinical treatment of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) for decades. However, its pharmacodyamic material basis was still unclear, and the holistic quality control has not been well established due to the lack of systematic research on the quality markers. In this experiment, the heart rate recovery rate of a zebrafish larva was used to evaluate the traditional pharmacological effect of XKST i.e., antiarrhythmic effect. The HPLC fingerprints of 16 batches of XKST samples were obtained, and antiarrhythmic components of XKST were identified by establishing the spectrum-effect relationship between HPLC fingerprints and heart rate recovery rate of zebrafish larva with orthogonal signal correction and partial least squares regression (OSC-PLSR) analysis. The anticardiovascular disease components of XKST were identified by mapping the targets related to CVDs in network pharmacology. The compounds of XKST absorbed and exposed in vivo were identified by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography Q-Exactive high-resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q-Exactive HRMS). Based on the earlier studies, combined with five principles for identifying quality markers and verified by a zebrafish arrhythmia model, danshensu, salvianolic acid A, salvianolic acid B, daidzein, and puerarin were identified as quality markers of XKST. In total, 16 batches of XKST samples were further quantified with the method established in this study. Our study laid the foundation for the quality control of XKST. The integrated strategy used in the study of XKST could be applied for the identification and quantification of quality markers of other CPMs as well.

Therapeutic Effect and Mechanism of Cinnamyl Alcohol on Myocardial Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury

Objective

To investigate the effect of CA on autophagy and its molecular mechanism after myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury (MI/RI).

Methods

The MI/RI model was established by the ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery with ischemia and reperfusion. In vitro cell models were established using hypoxia/reoxygenation. Western blot was used to determine the expression levels of beclin-1, P62, and LC3 II. The expression levels of IL-1β, IL-6, TNFα, and apoptosis-related genes Bax, Cyt-c, and Bcl-2 were detected by qRT-PCR. Cell activity was detected by CCK-8. Apoptosis was detected by TUNEL staining.

Results

Beclin-1, P62, and LC3 II protein expression and LC3 II/LC3 I level were significantly increased after myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury. Compared with model group, CA downregulated beclin-1, P62, and LC3 II protein expression and LC3 II/LC3 I level in the myocardium. The results of cell-level experiments showed that CA inhibited the autophagy response of the cardiomyocytes induced by hypoxia-reperfusion injury. Mechanism studies showed that CA targeted the inhibition of ATG12. Knocking down ATG12 reduces the production of inflammatory cytokines induced by H/R. The knockdown of ATG12 also reduced apoptosis and injury of the myocardial cells.

Conclusion

Myocardial ischemia-reperfusion can enhance autophagy response and promote apoptosis. CA plays a protective role in myocardium by targeting ATG12, thereby inhibiting autophagy and improving myocardial cell apoptosis.

Pellets of phospholipids and D-glucose with improved intestinal absorption and oral bioavailability of salvianolic acid B

Salvianolic acid B (SAB) is a widely used cardioprotective agent, while its clinical application was limited by poor intestinal absorption and low oral bioavailability. In this study, SAB phospholipid complex (SP) was first prepared to improve the lipophicity of SAB and then combined with D-glucose to further enhance intestinal absorption. Compared with free SAB, SP or the mixture of SAB and D-glucose, combination of SP and D-glucose showed higher intestinal absorption evidenced by increased effective permeation coefficient (P_eff) in the in situ single-pass intestinal perfusion (SPIP) assay. Subsequently, SP and D-glucose at mass ratio of 1:6, with the highest P_eff of SAB, were chosen for the preparation of complexed pellets to improve oral absorption efficiency of SAB. As expected, the obtained pellets significantly enhanced oral bioavailability of SAB in the pharmacokinetic study characterized by increasing C_max and AUC_0-t of SAB by 14.88-fold and 5.02-fold than free SAB, respectively. In conclusion, combination of D-glucose in SP pellets can effectively improve the intestinal absorption and oral bioavailability of SAB.

Salvianolic acid B improves autophagic dysfunction and decreases the apoptosis of cholesterol crystal‑induced macrophages via inhibiting the Akt/mTOR signaling pathway

Progressive macrophage dysfunction and apoptosis are some of the major events that occur during atherogenesis. To further investigate the intrinsic association between atherosclerosis (AS) and macrophage apoptosis and autophagy, cholesterol crystals (CHCs) were used to stimulate RAW264.7 macrophages to establish a macrophage model of advanced AS. Cells in the CHC group were treated with salvianolic acid B (Sal B) to evaluate its protective effects and reveal its underlying molecular mechanism. The results demonstrated that treatments with Sal B significantly improved autophagy dysfunction and reduced the apoptotic rate of CHC‑induced macrophages. Furthermore, Sal B significantly attenuated CHC‑induced release of proinflammatory factors (TNF‑α and IL‑6) by macrophages. Treatment of macrophages with a specific inhibitor of autophagy (3‑methyladenine) significantly reversed Sal B‑mediated effects on autophagy, suggesting that Sal B‑induced autophagy may display a protective effect in CHC‑induced macrophages. Furthermore, pretreatment of CHC‑induced macrophages with insulin significantly decreased Sal B‑induced autophagy, indicating that the Akt/mTOR signaling pathway may serve as a critical mediator in regulating Sal B‑mediated cell death. Taken together, the present study demonstrated that Sal B improved autophagic dysfunction and reduced the apoptosis of CHC‑induced macrophages via inhibiting the Akt/mTOR signaling pathway.

Salvianolic Acid B Protects Intervertebral Discs from Oxidative Stress-Induced Degeneration via Activation of the JAK2/STAT3 Signaling Pathway

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the influence of salvianolic acid B (SAB), an antioxidant derived from Danshen, on intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) and its possible molecular mechanisms.

METHODS

Sixty adult rats were randomly grouped (control, IDD, and SAB IDD groups). IDD was induced using needle puncture. The rats received daily administration of SAB (20 mg/kg) in the SAB IDD group while the other two groups received only distilled water. The extent of IDD was evaluated using MRI after 3 and 6 weeks and histology after 6 weeks. Oxidative stress was assessed using the ELISA method. In in vitro experiments, nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs) were treated with H2O2 (100 μM) or SAB+H2O2, and levels of oxidative stress were measured. Cell apoptosis was assessed by flow cytometry, expression levels of Bcl-2, Bax, and cleaved caspase-3 proteins. Cell proliferation rate was assessed by EdU analysis. Pathway involvement was determined by Western blotting while the influence of the pathway on NPCs was explored using the pathway inhibitor AG490.

RESULTS

The data demonstrate that SAB attenuated injury-induced IDD and oxidative stress, caused by activation of the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway in vivo. Oxidative stress induced by H2O2 was reversed by SAB in vitro. SAB reduced the increased cell apoptosis, cleaved caspase-3 expression, and caspase-3 activity induced by H2O2. Reduced cell proliferation and decreased Bcl-2/Bax ratio induced by H2O2 were rescued by SAB. Additionally, the JAK2/STAT3 pathway was activated by SAB, while AG490 counteracted this effect.

CONCLUSION

The results suggest that SAB protects intervertebral discs from oxidative stress-induced degeneration by enhancing proliferation and attenuating apoptosis via activation of the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway.

Effect of Danhong Injection () on Improving Coronary Microcirculation Injury after Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

OBJECTIVE

To explore the effectiveness of Danhong Injection () on improving microcirculatory injury after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in patients with coronary heart disease (CHD).

METHODS

A randomized controlled trial was conducted and 90 patients were enrolled. A random sequence was generated using statistical analysis software. Patients with microcirculatory injuries after PCI were randomly divided into 3 groups for treatment (30 subjects in each group): Danhong Injection group: after PCI, Danghong Injections were given with intravenous administration with 40 mL twice a day for a week; statins intensive group: after PCI, atorvastatin calcium tablets were given oral medication with 80 mg once, and then atorvastatin 40 mg daily for 1 week; the control group: after PCI, atorvastatin calcium tablets were given oral medication with 10-20 mg daily for 1 week. The index of microcirculation resistance (IMR) was used to assess microcirculatory injury during PCI. The IMR of the target vessel was reexamined after 1 week of drug treatment.

RESULTS

After one week's drug treatment, IMR was significantly decreased in both statins intensive group and Danhong Injection group compared with the control group (P<0.01), but no difference was found between statins intensive group and Danhong injection group (14.03 ± 2.54 vs. 16.03 ± 5.72 U, P=0.080).

CONCLUSIONS

The efficacy of Danhong Injection is non-inferior to statin. Early use of Danhong Injection after PCI can effectively improve coronary microcirculation injury after PCI.

Salvianolic Acid B Improves Postresuscitation Myocardial and Cerebral Outcomes in a Murine Model of Cardiac Arrest: Involvement of Nrf2 Signaling Pathway

Survival and outcome of cardiac arrest (CA) are dismal despite improvements in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Salvianolic acid B (Sal B), extracted from Salvia miltiorrhiza, has been investigated for its cardioprotective properties in cardiac remodeling and ischemic heart disease, but less is known about its role in CA. The aim of this study was to learn whether Sal B improves cardiac and neurologic outcomes after CA/CPR in mice. Female C57BL/6 mice were subjected to eight minutes of CA induced by an intravenous injection of potassium chloride (KCl), followed by CPR. After 30 seconds of CPR, mice were blindly randomized to receive either Sal B (20 mg/kg) or vehicle (normal saline) intravenously. Hemodynamic variables and indices of left ventricular function were determined before CA and within three hours after CPR, the early postresuscitation period. Sal B administration resulted in a remarkable decrease in the time required for the return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) in animals that successfully resuscitated compared to the vehicle-treated mice. Myocardial performance, including cardiac output and left ventricular systolic (dp/dt_max) and diastolic (dp/dt_min) function, was clearly ameliorated within three hours of ROSC in the Sal B-treated mice. Moreover, Sal B inhibited CA/CPR-induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis and preserved mitochondrial morphology and function. Mechanistically, Sal B dramatically promoted Nrf2 nuclear translocation through the downregulation of Keap1, which resulted in the expression of antioxidant enzymes, including HO-1 and NQO1, thereby counteracted the oxidative damage in response to CA/CPR. The aforementioned antiapoptotic and antioxidant effects of Sal B were impaired in the setting of gene silencing of Nrf2 with siRNA in vitro model. These improvements were associated with better neurological function and increased survival rate (75% vs. 40%, p < 0.05) up to 72 hours postresuscitation. Our findings suggest that the administration of Sal B improved cardiac function and neurological outcomes in a murine model of CA via activating the Nrf2 antioxidant signaling pathway, which may represent a novel therapeutic strategy for the treatment of CA.

Salvianolic Acid B improves cognitive impairment by inhibiting neuroinflammation and decreasing Aβ level in Porphyromonas gingivalis-infected mice

Amyloid-β (Aβ) accumulation is one of the main pathological hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis), the pathogen of chronic periodontitis, could cause Aβ accumulation and was identified in the brain of AD patients. Salvianolic Acid B (SalB) has been proven to have the neuroprotective effect. Whether SalB could protect against P. gingivalis-induced cognitive impairment is still unknown. In this study, a P. gingivalis-infected mouse model was employed to study the neuroprotective role of SalB. The results showed that SalB (20 and 40 mg/kg) treatment for 4 weeks could shorten the escape latency and improve the percentage of spontaneous alternation in the P. gingivalis-infected mice. SalB inhibited the levels of reactive oxygen species and malondialdehyde, while increased the levels of antioxidative enzymes (superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase). SalB decreased the levels of IL-1β and IL-6, increased the mRNA levels of bdnf and ngf in the brain of P. gingivalis-infected mice. In addition, SalB obviously decreased the level of Aβ. SalB elevated the protein expression of ADAM10, while downregulated BACE1 and PS1. SalB increased the protein expression of LRP1, while decreased RAGE. In conclusion, SalB could improve cognitive impairment by inhibiting neuroinflammation and decreasing Aβ level in P. gingivalis-infected mice.

Salvianolic acid B protects against myocardial ischaemia-reperfusion injury in rats via inhibiting high mobility group box 1 protein expression through the PI3K/Akt signalling pathway

Salvianolic acid B (Sal B) has a significant protective effect on myocardial ischaemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury. Therefore, the aims of this study were to determine the effects of Sal B on myocardial ischaemic-reperfusion (I/R) injury in rats and to explore whether its underlying mechanism of cardioprotection occurs through activating the expression of the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein, kinase B (PI3K/Akt) and inhibiting the expression of high mobility group protein 1 (HMGB1). Ninety Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized into five groups: group 1 (sham-operated), group 2 (myocardial I/R), group 3 (low dose of Sal B+I/R), group 4 (high dose of Sal B+I/R), and group 5 (high dose of Sal B+I/R+LY294002, which is a specific PI3k inhibitor). All I/R rats received 30 min myocardial ischaemia followed by 24-h reperfusion. Cardiac function, infarct size, myocardial injury marker levels, inflammatory response and cardiomyocyte apoptosis as well as Bcl-2, Bax, P-Akt, HMGB1 and TLR4 expression were measured. In the current study, Sal B significantly ameliorated myocardial I/R injury in a dose-dependent manner, ameliorated cardiac function, reduced myocardial infarction size, decreased myocardial injury marker expression, decreased inflammatory responses, reduced apoptosis, activated PI3K/Akt expression and inhibited HMGB1 expression. However, all effects of Sal B were significantly reversed by LY294002. Overall, the present study indicated that Sal B attenuated myocardial I/R injury by activating PI3K/Akt and inhibiting the release of HMGB1 in rats.

Sal B Alleviates Myocardial Ischemic Injury by Inhibiting TLR4 and the Priming Phase of NLRP3 Inflammasome

Salvianolic acid B is one of the main water-soluble components of Salvia miltiorrhiza Bge. Many reports have shown that it has significant anti-myocardial ischemia effect. However, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Our present study demonstrated that Sal B could alleviate myocardial ischemic injury by inhibiting the priming phase of NLRP3 inflammasome. In vivo, serum c-troponin I (cTn), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels, the cardiac function and infract size were examined. We found that Sal B could notably reduce the myocardial ischemic injury caused by ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery. In vitro, Sal B down-regulated the TLR4/NF-κB signaling cascades in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated H9C2 cells. Furthermore, Sal B reduced the expression levels of IL-1β and NLRP3 inflammasome in a dose-dependent manner. In short, our study provided evidence that Sal B could attenuate myocardial ischemic injury via inhibition of TLR4/NF-κB/NLRP3 signaling pathway. And in an upstream level, MD-2 may be the potential target.

Cardio-protective effects of salvianolic acid B on oxygen and glucose deprivation (OGD)-treated H9c2 cells

The morphological feature of apoptosis is induced by oxygen and glucose deprivation (OGD) in cardiomyocytes H9c2 cells. Salvianolic acid B (Sal-B) has been studied in several pathological progresses, whereas it is still unclear whether maternally expressed gene 3 (MEG3) is an intermediate regulator during this progress. After pre-incubation with Sal-B and stimulation with OGD, viability and apoptosis of were examined in MEG3-overexpressed H9c2 cells. Cyclin D1, apoptosis-correlated proteins and regulators of signalling pathways were quantified with Western blot assay. MEG3 was detected by quantitative reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR). Sal-B was implicated in the enhancement of cell viability and suppression of apoptosis in OGD-treated H9c2 cells by repressing MEG3. In addition, MEG3 overexpression exerted an inhibitory effect on murine double minute 2 (MDM2) expression while aggrandized p53 expression in OGD-treated H9c2 cells which were pre-incubated with Sal-B. Furthermore, MEG3 overexpression abolished the up-regulative effect of Sal-B on phosphorylation of adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) in OGD-treated H9c2 cells. These results indicated that cardio-protective function of Sal-B might be ascribed to its down-regulatory property on MEG3 expression which hence blocks p53 and triggers AMPK activation in OGD-treated cells.

Traditional Chinese Medicine for Coronary Heart Disease: Clinical Evidence and Possible Mechanisms

Coronary heart disease (CHD) remains a major cause of mortality with a huge economic burden on healthcare worldwide. Here, we conducted a systematic review to investigate the efficacy and safety of Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) for CHD based on high-quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and summarized its possible mechanisms according to animal-based researches. 27 eligible studies were identified in eight database searches from inception to June 2018. The methodological quality was assessed using seven-item checklist recommended by Cochrane Collaboration. All the data were analyzed using Rev-Man 5.3 software. As a result, the score of study quality ranged from 4 to 7 points. Meta-analyses showed CHM can significantly reduce the incidence of myocardial infarction and percutaneous coronary intervention, and cardiovascular mortality (P < 0.05), and increase systolic function of heart, the ST-segment depression, and clinical efficacy (P < 0.05). Adverse events were reported in 11 studies, and CHMs were well tolerated in patients with CHD. In addition, CHM exerted cardioprotection for CHD, possibly altering multiple signal pathways through anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidation, anti-apoptosis, improving the circulation, and regulating energy metabolism. In conclusion, the evidence available from present study revealed that CHMs are beneficial for CHD and are generally safe.

Protective effects of salvianolic acid B against hydrogen peroxide‑induced apoptosis of human umbilical vein endothelial cells and underlying mechanisms

Salvianolic acid B (Sal B) is a water-soluble active component of Danshen and has anti-atherosclerotic effects. The present study aimed to evaluate the cytoprotective effects of Sal B against hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂)-induced oxidative stress damage in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and investigate the underlying mechanisms. It was revealed that Sal B protected the cells from H₂O₂-induced damage, as indicated by MTT results showing enhanced cell viability and by flow cytometric analysis showing reduced apoptosis of cells challenged with H₂O₂. Furthermore, as an underlying mechanism, the enhancement of autophagy was indicated to be accountable for the decrease in apoptosis, as Sal B caused the upregulation of light chain 3-II and Beclin-1, and downregulation of p62 under H₂O₂-induced oxidative stress. Finally, Sal B increased the phosphorylation of AMP kinase (AMPK) and decreased the phosphorylation of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), but had no effect on the phosphorylation of AKT. In conclusion, the present study revealed that Sal B protects HUVECs from oxidative stress, at least partially by promoting autophagy via activation of the AMPK pathway and downregulation of the mTOR pathway.

Biosynthesis, Chemistry, and Pharmacology of Polyphenols from Chinese Salvia Species: A Review

Salvia species find widespread application in food and pharmaceutical products owing to their large polyphenol content. The main polyphenols in Chinese Salvia species are phenolic acids and flavonoids, which exhibit anti-oxygenation, anti-ischemia-reperfusion injury, anti-thrombosis, anti-tumour, and other therapeutic effects. However, there are few peer-reviewed studies on polyphenols in Chinese Salvia species, especially flavonoids. This review is a systematic, comprehensive collation of available information on the biosynthesis, chemistry, and pharmacology of Chinese Salvia species. We believe that our study makes a significant contribution to the literature because this review provides a detailed literary resource on the currently available information on various polyphenolic components of Chinese Salvia species, including their bioactivities and structures. In addition, the study provides information that would encourage further investigation of this plant material as a natural resource with potential for a broad range of applications in various industries, such as the food and pharmaceutical industries.

Salvianolic Acid B Suppresses Inflammatory Mediator Levels by Downregulating NF-κB in a Rat Model of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Background

Salvianolic acid B (SB) is a major active phyto-component of the plant Radix Salvia miltiorrhiza, which is traditionally used to treat joint pain and arthritis. The present study examined the anti-rheumatoid arthritis efficacy of SB on collagen-induced rheumatoid arthritis (CIA) in a rat model.

Material/Methods

Forty-eight rats were divided into 4 groups: Control rats treated with saline (Group I), rats subjected to CIA induction by intradermal injection of bovine collagen II type at the tail (Group II), and rats subjected to CIA and supplemented with either 20 or 40 mg/kg of SB for 28 days (group III or IV).

Results

Paw swelling, edema, arthritis score, thymus and spleen indexes, and neutrophil infiltration were significantly decreased (p<0.01) by treatment with 20 or 40 mg/kg of SB. The levels of inflammatory cytokines (interleukin-1β, -6, and -17, and TNF-α) and anti-collagen II-specific immunoglobulins (IgG₁ and IgG_2a) were markedly decreased (p<0.01), and those of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, and GSH) were significantly increased (p<0.01) in SB-treated rats. Administration with SB (20 or 40 mg/kg) resulted in lower phosphorylated IκB-α and NF-κB p65 protein levels and markedly downregulated IκB-α expression. Furthermore, CIA rats revealed the presence of highly diffused polymorphonuclear cells (PMNs) infiltration with eroded cartilage; however, these phenomena were considerably ameliorated by SB.

Conclusions

SB alleviates oxidative stress and inflammation in CIA rats, thus verifying its anti-rheumatoid arthritis property.

Retracted Article: Salvianolic acid B inhibits inflammatory response and cell apoptosis via the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway in IL-1β-induced osteoarthritis chondrocytes

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common joint disease among late middle-aged or elderly people. The pathological process of OA mainly involves the degeneration of cartilage tissue and deficiency of joint function. Salvianolic acid B (Sal B) is the main active ingredient of Salvia miltiorrhiza Bge, which possesses anti-inflammatory, anti apoptotic and other pharmacological activities. In this study, primary chondrocytes were cultured to investigate the effects of Sal B on the inflammatory response and apoptosis of OA induced by IL-1β, and to explore the possible mechanism. First, we determined the cytotoxicity of Sal B; the results showed that the cell activity of chondrocytes was not influenced by Sal B when the concentration was below 150 μM. Moreover, Sal B (40 and 80 μM) suppressed the expression of iNOS in OA chondrocytes induced by IL-1β, and restrained the secretion of NO, IL-6, IL-17 and TNF-α in chondrocytes obviously. Sal B (40, 80 μM) significantly alleviated the inhibitory effect of cell activity stimulated by IL-1β and up-regulated the expression of Col II and reduced the expression of Col X. Besides, Sal B down-regulated the expression level of Bax and promoted the expression of Bcl-2, showed a significant effect on promoting proliferation and inhibiting cell apoptosis. In addition, we found that IL-1β significantly reduced the ratio of p-PI3K/PI3K, p-Akt/Akt induced the nuclear translocation of AKT and inhibited the activation of the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. Finally, the PI3K inhibitor, LY-294002, was added in IL-1β-induced chondrocytes. The results suggest that Sal B ameliorates IL-1β induced inflammation and suppresses apoptosis in OA by activating the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. Our study reveals the mechanism of Sal B acts on OA and may provide a basis for the treatment of OA with Sal B.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common joint disease among late middle-aged or elderly people.

Salvianolic acid B recovers cognitive deficits and angiogenesis in a cerebral small vessel disease rat model via the STAT3/VEGF signaling pathway

Salvianolic acid B is one of the key water‑soluble components of Salvia extract. It has been verified that salvianolic acid B possesses multiple pharmacological activities, it protects against myocardial infarction, however additionally improves injury of myocardial ischemia‑reperfusion. The present study, the possible effects of salvianolic acid B on cognitive deficits and angiogenesis in cerebral small vessel disease were investigated. Salvianolic acid B was identified to recover cognitive deficits and neurocytes, reduce inflammation, oxidative stress and neurocyte apoptosis (caspase‑3 and Bax protein expression) in cerebral small vessel disease rats. In addition, salvianolic acid B upregulated signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) phosphorylation protein expression, and induced vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and VEGF receptor 2 protein expression in cerebral small vessel disease rats. In conclusion, the results demonstrated that salvianolic acid B recovers cognitive deficits and angiogenesis in the cerebral small vessel disease rat model via STAT3/VEGF signaling pathway.

Development and validation of an LC-MS/MS method for the simultaneous quantification of seven constituents in rat plasma and application in a pharmacokinetic study of the Zaoren Anshen prescription

A sensitive, specific and accurate liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method was developed and validated for the simultaneous determination of seven constituents of the Zaoren Anshen prescription (ZAP) in rat plasma after oral administration of the ZAP: spinosin, salvianic acid A, 6'''-feruloylspinosin, protocatechualdehyde, salvianolic acid B, schisandrin and deoxyschisandrin. The plasma samples and the internal standard (IS) sulfamethoxazole were extracted using acetonitrile. Chromatographic separation was performed with an Agilent HC-C₁₈ column using a gradient elution profile and a mobile phase consisting of 0.01% formic acid in water (A) and acetonitrile (B). The analytes were quantified simultaneously in a single run using an ion trap mass spectrometer operated in the multiple reaction monitoring mode and electrospray ion-source polarity in the positive and negative modes. The calibration curves for spinosin, salvianic acid A, 6'''-feruloylspinosin, protocatechualdehyde, salvianolic acid B, schisandrin and deoxyschisandrin were linear over the concentration ranges of 2.90-1160, 2.50-1000, 1.80-720, 0.65-260, 2.50-1000, 8.00-1600 and 1.30-520 ng/mL, respectively. The intra- and inter-day precisions in terms of relative standard deviation were <18.9%, and the accuracies in terms of relative error were within ±14.2%. Consequently, the proposed method was successfully applied to the pharmacokinetic analysis of these seven major active compounds in rats administered ZAP. These results will facilitate research aiming to predict the effectiveness of the optimal dose of ZAP and might be beneficial for the therapeutic use of ZAP in the clinical setting.

Specific Combination of Salvianolic Acids As Core Active Ingredients of Danhong Injection for Treatment of Arterial Thrombosis and Its Derived Dry Gangrene

Although single-targeting anti-platelet agents are used extensively in clinics, their limitations in resistance and bleeding have started a trend of combination therapy. Danhong injection (DHI) is a widely prescribed injection medicine for cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases in China. However, its precise clinical efficacy and functional components remain unexplored. In this study, we investigated the anti-thrombotic role and its chemical basis of DHI. In a photochemically-induced thrombosis model, DHI effectively dissolved thrombus and ameliorated its derived dry gangrene. DHI inhibited multiple GPCR agonists-induced platelet adhesion, aggregation and downstream Ca²⁺ and cAMP signaling pathways. A functional screen of DHI library identified its major active components as a cluster of seven salvianolic acids. A combination of salvianolic acid A and C synergistically inhibited platelet aggregation in vitro while salvianolic acid B antagonized this effect. Our study revealed the anti-thrombotic activity of DHI. The multi-targeting mechanism of DHI proves the effectiveness of a natural anti-thrombotic combination therapy. The identification of salvianolic acids as a core anti-thrombotic activity of DHI and the discovery that their different combinations could either synergistically or antagonistically provide a better guidance for safer clinical application and paves the way for further development of DHI.

Salvianolic acid B attenuates lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung injury in rats through inhibition of apoptosis, oxidative stress and inflammation

The present study was performed to assess the protective effect of salvianolic acid B on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute lung injury (ALI). Sprague Dawley rats were injected with 100 µg/kg LPS through a 24-gauge catheter. One group of rats was pre-treated with salvianolic acid B (1 mg/ml; 20 ml/kg body weight) 1 h prior to LPS challenge, then 20 ml/kg salvianolic acid B every 2 days for 4 weeks thereafter. Salvianolic acid B attenuated LPS-induced increases in the lung wet/dry weight rate and lung tissue injury in ALI model rats. LPS-induced changes in the content of caspase-3, malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-6 in ALI model rats were attenuated by treatment with salvianolic acid B. Furthermore, treatment with salvianolic acid B inhibited the protein expression of type I collagen I, endogenous transforming growth factor-β1 production and α-smooth muscle actin in ALI model rats. These findings indicated that salvianolic acid B attenuates LPS-induced ALI through inhibition of apoptosis, oxidative stress and inflammation in rats and therefore exertsa protective effect against ALI.

Attenuation of renal ischemic reperfusion injury by salvianolic acid B via suppressing oxidative stress and inflammation through PI3K/Akt signaling pathway

Salvianolic acid B (SAB) is one the major phytocomponents of Radix Salvia miltiorrhiza and exhibit numerous health promoting properties. The objective of the current study was to examine whether SAB exerts a renoprotective effect by attenuating oxidative stress and inflammatory response through activating phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/serine-threonine kinase B (PI3K/Akt) signaling pathway in a renal ischemic reperfusion rat model. Forty Sprague-Dawley male rats (250–300 g) were obtained and split into four groups with ten rats in each group. The right kidney of all rats was removed (nephrectomy). The rats of the Control group received only saline (occlusion) and served as a sham control group, whereas rats subjected to ischemic reperfusion (IR) insult by clamping the left renal artery served as a postitive control group. The other 2 groups of rats were pretreated with SAB (20 and 40 mg·kg^-1·day^-1) for 7 days prior IR induction and served as treatment groups (SAB 20+IR; SAB 40+IR). Renal markers creatinine (Cr) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) were significantly lower in the groups that received SAB. Pretreatment with SAB appears to attenuate oxidative stress by suppressing the production of lipid peroxidation products like malondialdehyde as well as elevating antioxidant activity. The concentration of inflammatory markers and neutrophil infiltration (myeloperoxidase) were significantly decreased. Meanwhile, PI3K protein expression and pAkt/Akt ratio were significantly upregulated upon supplementation with SAB, indicating its renoprotective activity. Taken together, these results indicate that SAB can therapeutically alleviate oxidative stress and inflammatory process via modulating PI3K/Akt signaling pathway and probably ameliorate renal function and thus act as a renoprotective agent.

Effects and mechanisms of compound Chinese medicine and major ingredients on microcirculatory dysfunction and organ injury induced by ischemia/reperfusion

Microcirculation dysfunction and organ injury after ischemia and reperfusion (I/R) result from a complex pathologic process consisting of multiple links, with metabolism impairment in the ischemia phase and oxidative stress in the reperfusion phase as initiators, and any treatment targeting a single link is insufficient to cope with this. Compound Chinese medicine (CCM) has been applied in clinics in China and some Asian nations for >2000years. Studies over the past decades revealed the protective and therapeutic effect of CCMs and major ingredients on I/R-induced microcirculatory dysfunction and tissue injury in the heart, brain, liver, intestine, and so on. CCM contains diverse bioactive components with potential for energy metabolism regulation; antioxidant effect; inhibiting inflammatory cytokines release; adhesion molecule expression in leukocyte, platelet, and vascular endothelial cells; and the protection of thrombosis, albumin leakage, and mast cell degranulation. This review covers the major works with respect to the effects and underlying mechanisms of CCM and its ingredients on microcirculatory dysfunction and organ injury after I/R, providing novel ideas for dealing with this threat.

A strategy for integrated pharmacokinetic study of cardiovascular herbal medicines based on chemiluminescence and HPLC-MS/MS assays: a case using Danshen injection

A strategy for an integrated PK study based on chemiluminescence assays for cardiovascular herbal medicines with antioxidants as the main effective substances.

Naoxintong attenuates Ischaemia/reperfusion Injury through inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome activation

Naoxintong (NXT) is a Chinese Materia Medica standardized product extracted from 16 various kinds of Chinese traditional herbal medicines including Salvia miltiorrhiza, Angelica sinensis, Astragali Radix. Naoxintong is clinically effective in treating ischaemia heart disease. Nucleotide‐binding oligomerization domain‐Like Receptor with a Pyrin domain 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome has been critically involved in myocardial ischaemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. Here, we have been suggested that NXT might attenuate myocardial I/R injury via suppression of NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Male C57BL6 mice were subjected to myocardial I/R injury via 45 min. coronary ligation and release for the indicated times. Naoxintong (0.7 g/kg/day) and PBS were orally administrated for 2 weeks before surgery. Cardiac function assessed by echocardiography was significantly improved in the NXT group compared to PBS group at day 2 after myocardial I/R. NLRP3 inflammasome activation is crucially involved in the initial inflammatory response after myocardial I/R injury, leading to cleaved caspase‐1, mature interleukin (IL)‐1β production, accompanying by macrophage and neutrophil infiltration. The cardioprotective effect of NXT was associated with a diminished NLRP3 inflammasome activation, decreased pro‐inflammatory macrophage (M1 macrophages) and neutrophil infiltration after myocardial I/R injury. In addition, serum levels of IL‐1β, indicators of NLRP3 inflammasome activation, were also significantly suppressed in the NXT treated group after I/R injury. Naoxintong exerts cardioprotive effects at least partly by suppression of NLRP3 inflammasome activation in this I/R injury model.

Salvianolic acid B protects against doxorubicin induced cardiac dysfunction via inhibition of ER stress mediated cardiomyocyte apoptosis

Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge is a well-known medicinal plant in China. Salvianolic acid B (Sal B) is the most abundant bioactive compound extracted from the root of S. miltiorrhiza. The present study investigates the effect of Sal B on cardiac function and cardiomyocyte apoptosis in doxorubicin (DOX)-treated mice. After pretreatment with Sal B (2 mg kg-1 iv) for 7 d, male BALB/c mice were injected with a single dose of DOX (20 mg kg-1 ip). The cardioprotective effect of Sal B was observed on the 7th day after DOX treatment. DOX caused retarded body growth, apoptotic damage, and Bcl-2 expression disturbance. In contrast, Sal B pretreatment (2 mg kg-1 iv before DOX administration) attenuated the DOX induced apoptotic damage in heart tissues. Further study indicated that Sal B protected against DOX induced cardiotoxicity, at least, partially, by inhibiting endoplasmic reticulum stress, and by being involved in the PI3K/Akt pathway. These findings clarified the potential of Sal B as a promising reagent for treating DOX induced cardiotoxicity.

Synergism of Chinese Herbal Medicine: Illustrated by Danshen Compound

The primary therapeutic effects of Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) are based on the properties of each herb and the strategic combination of herbs in formulae. The herbal formulae are constructed according to Chinese medicine theory: the “Traditional Principles for Constructing Chinese Herbal Medicinal Formulae” and the “Principles of Combining Medicinal Substances.” These principles of formulation detail how and why multiple medicinal herbs with different properties are combined together into a single formula. However, the concept of herbal synergism in CHM still remains a mystery due to lack of scientific data and modern assessment methods. The Compound Danshen Formula (CDF) is a validated formula that has been used to treat a variety of diseases for hundreds of years in China and other countries. The CDF will be employed to illustrate the theory and principle of Chinese herbal medicine formulation. The aim of this review is to describe how Chinese herbal medicinal formulae are constructed according to Chinese medicine theory and to illustrate with scientific evidence how Chinese herbs work synergistically within a formula, thereby supporting Chinese medicine theory and practice.

Urotensin-ⅡReceptor Antagonist SB-710411 Protects Rat Heart against Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury via RhoA/ROCK Pathway

Aim

SB-710411 is a rat selective urotensin-II (U-II) receptor antagonist, which can block U-II-induced contraction of the aorta and inhibit U-II-induced myocardial fibrosis in rats. However, the effect of SB-710411 on myocardial ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury is unclear. The present study was designed to investigate whether SB-710411 has a protective effect on myocardial I/R injury in rats and the possible mechanisms.

Methods and Results

Myocardial I/R injury was induced by occluding the left anterior descending coronary artery in adult male Sprague-Dawley rats. Hemodynamic parameters, electrocardiogram (ECG), infarct size, histological alteration, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatine phosphokinase-MB (CK-MB), cardiac troponin I (cTnI), RhoA, and the protein expressions of U-II receptor (UTR), ROCK₁ and ROCK₂ were evaluated. Cardiac I/R injury significantly up-regulated the expressions of UTR, ROCK₁ and ROCK₂ proteins in rat myocardium. SB-710411 1.0 and 2.0 μg/kg significantly reduced cardiac I/R-induced the infarct size and histological damage in rat myocardium, markedly inhibited the changes of hemodynamic parameters and the increases of ST-segment in ECG, the serum LDH and CK-MB activities and cTnI level in rats subjected to myocardial I/R injury. Furthermore, SB-710411 obviously prevented myocardial I/R-increased RhoA activity and UTR, ROCK₁ and ROCK₂ protein expressions.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that cardiac I/R injury increases myocardial UTR expression, and SB-710411 has a potent protective effect on myocardial I/R injury in rats. The cardioprotection may be associated with the inhibition of UTR-RhoA/ROCK pathway.

Pharmacokinetic study of salvianolic acid D after oral and intravenous administration in rats

A sensitive, specific and rapid LC-MS method was developed and validated for the determination of salvianolic acid D (SalD) in rat plasma. This method used a single quadrupole mass spectrometer with an electrospray ionization (ESI) source. A single ion monitoring scanning (SIM) mode was employed. It showed good linearity over the concentration range from 3.3 to 666.7 ng/mL for the determination of SalD. The R.S.D.% of intra-day and inter-day precision values were no more than 7.69%, and the accuracy was within 91%−104% at all quality control levels. This LC-MS method was applied to the pharmacokinetic study of SalD in rats. A two-compartmental model analysis was employed. The plasma concentrations at 2 min (C_2min) were 5756.06±719.61, 11,073.01±1783.46 and 21,077.58±5581.97 μg/L for 0.25, 0.5 and 1 mg/kg intravenous injection, respectively. The peak plasma concentration (C_max) was 333.08±61.21 μg/L for 4 mg/kg oral administration. The area under curve (AUC_0−t) was 14,384.379±8443.184, 22,813.369±11,860.823, 46,406.122±27,592.645 and 8201.740±4711.961 μg/L·h for intravenous injection (0.25, 0.5 and 1 mg/kg) and oral administration (4 mg/kg), respectively. The bioavailability of SalD was calculated to be 4.159%±0.517%.