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Li F, Wu J, Zhu Y, Zhang X, Wang M, Zhou S. Exploring the mechanism of dendrobine in treating metabolic associated fatty liver disease based on network pharmacology and experimental validation. Hereditas 2024; 161:17. [PMID: 38755697 PMCID: PMC11097442 DOI: 10.1186/s41065-024-00322-2] [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] [Received: 12/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study investigates the therapeutic mechanisms of dendrobine, a primary bioactive compound in Dendrobium nobile, for Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease (MASLD) management. Utilizing network pharmacology combined with experimental validation, the clinical effectiveness of dendrobine in MASLD treatment was assessed and analyzed. RESULTS The study demonstrates significant improvement in liver function among MASLD patients treated with Dendrobium nobile. Network pharmacology identified key targets such as Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Gamma (PPARG), Interleukin 6 (IL6), Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF), Interleukin 1 Beta (IL1B), and AKT Serine/Threonine Kinase 1 (AKT1), with molecular docking confirming their interactions. Additionally, dendrobine significantly reduced ALT and AST levels in palmitic acid-treated HepG2 cells, indicating hepatoprotective properties and amelioration of oxidative stress through decreased Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and increased Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) levels. CONCLUSION Dendrobine mitigates liver damage in MASLD through modulating inflammatory and immune responses and affecting lipid metabolism, potentially by downregulating inflammatory mediators like TNF, IL6, IL1B, and inhibiting AKT1 and Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 (STAT3). This study provides a theoretical basis for the application of dendrobine in MASLD treatment, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Li
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Department, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 725 Wanping South Road, Fenglin Street, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Jialin Wu
- Nanmatou Community Health Service Center, 696 Pusan Road, Pudong New District, Shanghai, 200125, China
| | - Ye Zhu
- Xinzhuang Community Health Service Center, 115 Xinjian Road, Minhang District, Shanghai, 201199, China
| | - Xiaoyan Zhang
- Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Miao Wang
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Department, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 725 Wanping South Road, Fenglin Street, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Shigao Zhou
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Department, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 725 Wanping South Road, Fenglin Street, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200030, China.
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Liu Y, Li Y, Wang J, Yang L, Yu X, Huang P, Song H, Zheng P. Salvia-Nelumbinis naturalis improves lipid metabolism of NAFLD by regulating the SIRT1/AMPK signaling pathway. BMC Complement Med Ther 2022; 22:213. [PMID: 35945571 PMCID: PMC9361555 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-022-03697-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Salvia-Nelumbinis naturalis (SNN), the extract of Chinese herbal medicine, has shown effects on NAFLD. This study aims to explore the underlying mechanism of SNN for regulating the lipid metabolism disorder in NAFLD based on the SIRT1/AMPK signaling pathway.
Methods
Male C57BL/6J mice fed with a high-fat diet (HFD) were used to establish the NAFLD model. Dynamic changes of mice including body weight, liver weight, serological biochemical indexes, liver histopathological changes, and protein level of AMPK and SIRT1 were monitored. After18 weeks, SNN treatment was administrated to the NAFLD mice for another 4 weeks. Besides the aforementioned indices, TC and TG of liver tissues were also measured. Western blot and quantitative RT-PCR were used to detect the expression and/or activation of SIRT1 and AMPK, as well as the molecules associated with lipid synthesis and β-oxidation. Furthermore, AML12 cells with lipid accumulation induced by fatty acids were treated with LZG and EX527 (SIRT1 inhibitor) or Compound C (AMPK inhibitor ) to confirm the potential pharmacological mechanism.
Results
Dynamic observation found the mice induced by HFD with gradually increased body and liver weight, elevated serum cholesterol, hepatic lipid accumulation, and liver injury. After 16 weeks, these indicators have shown obvious changes. Additionally, the hepatic level of SIRT1 and AMPK activation was identified gradually decreased with NAFLD progress. The mice with SNN administration had lower body weight, liver weight, and serum level of LDL-c and ALT than those of the NAFLD model. Hepatosteatosis and hepatic TG content in the liver tissues of the SNN group were significantly reduced. When compared with control mice, the NAFLD mice had significantly decreased hepatic expression of SIRT1, p-AMPK, p-ACC, ACOX1, and increased total Acetylated-lysine, SUV39H2, and SREBP-1c. The administration of SNN reversed the expression of these molecules. In vitro experiments showed the effect of SNN in ameliorating hepatosteatosis and regulating the expression of lipid metabolism-related genes in AML12 cells, which were diminished by EX527 or Compound C co-incubation.
Conclusions
Taken together, the SIRT1/AMPK signaling pathway, involved in hepatic lipid synthesis and degradation, plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of NAFLD development. The regulation of SIRT1/AMPK signaling greatly contributes to the underlying therapeutic mechanism of SNN for NAFLD.
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Structural and Functional Modulation of Gut Microbiota by Jiangzhi Granules during the Amelioration of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2021; 2021:2234695. [PMID: 34966475 PMCID: PMC8712166 DOI: 10.1155/2021/2234695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Recently, accumulating evidence revealed that nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is highly associated with the dysbiosis of gut microbiota. Jiang Zhi Granule (JZG), which is composed of five widely used Chinese herbs, has shown hypolipidemic effect, while whether such effect is mediated by gut microbiota is still unclear. Here, we found that both low and high doses of JZG (LJZ and HJZ) could improve hepatic steatosis and function, as well as insulin resistance in NAFLD mice. 16S rRNA gene sequencing revealed that JZG treatment could reverse the dysbiosis of intestinal flora in NAFLD mice, exhibiting a dose-dependent effect. Notably, HJZ could significantly reduce the relative abundance of Desulfovibrionaceae, while increasing the relative abundance of such as S24_7 and Lachnospiraceae. PICRUSt analysis showed that HJZ could significantly alter the functional profile of gut microbiota, including the reduction of the lipopolysaccharide biosynthesis and sulfur metabolism pathway, which is verified by the decreased levels of fecal hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and serum lipopolysaccharide binding protein (LBP). In addition, hepatic mRNA sequencing further indicated that the HJZ group can regulate the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) pathway and inflammatory signaling pathway, as validated by RT-PCR and Western blot. We also found that different doses of JZG may regulate lipid metabolism through differentiated pathways, as LJZ mainly through the promotion of hepatic lipid hydrolysis, while HJZ mainly through the improvement of hepatic lipid oxidation. Taken together, JZG could modulate gut dysbiosis with dose-effect, alleviate inflammation level, and regulate hepatic lipid metabolism, which may subsequently contribute to the improvement of NAFLD. Our study revealed the underlying mechanisms in the improvement of NAFLD by a Chinese herbal compound, providing future guidance for clinical usage.
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Yu X, Zhang H, Pan J, Zou L, Tang L, Miao H, Zheng P, Xing L. Jiang Zhi Granule protects immunological barrier of intestinal mucosa in rats with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. PHARMACEUTICAL BIOLOGY 2021; 59:1359-1368. [PMID: 34915801 PMCID: PMC8725831 DOI: 10.1080/13880209.2021.1979594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Jiang Zhi Granule (JZG) is known to improve hepatic function, reduce liver fat deposition and inflammation in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). OBJECTIVE To determine the protective mechanism of JZG on immunological barrier of intestinal mucosa in rats with diet-induced non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). MATERIALS AND METHODS A Sprague-Dawley (SD) model of NASH was established using a high-fat diet and 1% dextran sulphate sodium (DSS) through drinking water. The rats were randomized into four groups and treated for four weeks, respectively, including normal control (NC), model control (MC), positive control (PC) and JZG. Mesenteric lymph nodes (MLNs) cells were isolated and cultured to assess a potential disruption of the enteric immune barrier. Also, investigation of intestinal mucosal dendritic cell-toll-like-receptor-myeloid differentiation primary response 88 (DC-TLR-MyD88) signalling pathway in vitro was examined. RESULTS The lethal concentration 50 (LD50) of JZG was greater than 5 g/kg, while its inhibitory concentration 50 (IC50) was 1359 μg/mL in HepG2. In JZG group, the plasma levels of alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), malondialdehyde (MDA), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG) and serum endotoxin were significantly (p < 0.01) reduced. In contrast, plasma concentrations of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were increased. Furthermore, proinflammatory factor, interferon-γ (IFN-γ)+ from CD4+ T cells in DSS-induced NASH rats increased significantly (p < 0.01) compared to NC group. Importantly, JZG treatment substantially decreased (p < 0.01) the relative expressions of TLR-44 and MyD88. CONCLUSIONS JZG treatment may protect immunological barrier of intestinal mucosa in NASH individual.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Yu
- Department II of Digestive Diseases, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Haiyan Zhang
- Department II of Digestive Diseases, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jielu Pan
- Department II of Digestive Diseases, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Lu Zou
- Experiment Center for Teaching & Learning, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ling Tang
- Department II of Digestive Diseases, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hongyu Miao
- Department II of Digestive Diseases, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Peiyong Zheng
- Department II of Digestive Diseases, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Lianjun Xing
- Department II of Digestive Diseases, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Ma Y, Li J, Ju Z, Huang W, Wang Z, Yang L, Ding L. Danning tablets alleviate high fat diet-induced obesity and fatty liver in mice via modulating SREBP pathway. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 279:114320. [PMID: 34116189 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2021.114320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2020] [Revised: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/06/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE The traditional Chinese formula Danning tablets exhibit wide clinical applications in liver and gallbladder diseases, and currently it is reported to be effective on fatty liver disease in clinical trials. However, the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. AIM OF THE STUDY The purpose of the present study was to assess the effects and potential pharmacological mechanisms of Danning tablet against high fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity, fatty liver, and related metabolic disorders in mice. MATERIALS AND METHODS C57BL/6 J male mice were treated with HFD for 12 weeks to trigger obesity and fatty liver condition. Then those mice were randomly divided into 5 groups, namely HFD, Danning tablet (0.75, 1.5 or 3 g/kg bodyweight) or lovastatin (30 mg/kg bodyweight) for extra 6 weeks' treatment of HFD. Food intake and bodyweight were recorded each week. In the last week, before the mice were sacrificed, fasting blood glucose levels and insulin levels were measured. Furthermore, insulin and glucose tolerance tests were performed. Blood and hepatic lipid levels were examined, the lipid metabolism-associated gene expressions and protein levels in the liver or adipose tissues were assayed after sacrificing all mice. RESULTS Our results demonstrated that a high dose of Danning tablet (3 g/kg) treatment mitigated body weight gain, reduced blood and hepatic cholesterol and triglyceride levels. The morphology analysis showed that Danning tablets could reduce lipid accumulation in both liver and brown adipose tissue. Moreover, Danning tablets could improve fasting blood glucose levels and ameliorate glucose and insulin tolerance in HFD-induced obese mice. Furthermore, qRT-PCR analysis revealed that the mRNA expressions of SREBP-1 and SREBP-2 as well as their target genes were remarkedly down-regulated in the liver and adipose tissue of diet-induced obesity (DIO) mice after treating those mice with Danning tablets. CONCLUSION Our results indicated that Danning tablets could improve the obesity-induced metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) and related metabolic disorders. The potential mechanism may probably involve the regulation of the SREBP pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujie Ma
- The Ministry of Education (MOE) Key Laboratory for Standardization of Chinese Medicines, The State Administration of TCM (SATCM) Key Laboratory for New Resources and Quality Evaluation of Chinese Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Complex Prescriptions, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China; Shanghai R&D Center for Standardization of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Jinmei Li
- The Ministry of Education (MOE) Key Laboratory for Standardization of Chinese Medicines, The State Administration of TCM (SATCM) Key Laboratory for New Resources and Quality Evaluation of Chinese Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Complex Prescriptions, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China; Shanghai R&D Center for Standardization of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Zhengcai Ju
- The Ministry of Education (MOE) Key Laboratory for Standardization of Chinese Medicines, The State Administration of TCM (SATCM) Key Laboratory for New Resources and Quality Evaluation of Chinese Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Complex Prescriptions, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China; Shanghai R&D Center for Standardization of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Wendong Huang
- Department of Diabetes Complications and Metabolism, Institute of Diabetes Center, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Zhengtao Wang
- The Ministry of Education (MOE) Key Laboratory for Standardization of Chinese Medicines, The State Administration of TCM (SATCM) Key Laboratory for New Resources and Quality Evaluation of Chinese Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Complex Prescriptions, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China; Shanghai R&D Center for Standardization of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Li Yang
- The Ministry of Education (MOE) Key Laboratory for Standardization of Chinese Medicines, The State Administration of TCM (SATCM) Key Laboratory for New Resources and Quality Evaluation of Chinese Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Complex Prescriptions, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China; Shanghai R&D Center for Standardization of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Lili Ding
- The Ministry of Education (MOE) Key Laboratory for Standardization of Chinese Medicines, The State Administration of TCM (SATCM) Key Laboratory for New Resources and Quality Evaluation of Chinese Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Complex Prescriptions, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China; Shanghai R&D Center for Standardization of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Shanghai 201203, China.
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Ramos VDM, Kowaltowski AJ, Kakimoto PA. Autophagy in Hepatic Steatosis: A Structured Review. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:657389. [PMID: 33937257 PMCID: PMC8081956 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.657389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Steatosis is the accumulation of neutral lipids in the cytoplasm. In the liver, it is associated with overeating and a sedentary lifestyle, but may also be a result of xenobiotic toxicity and genetics. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) defines an array of liver conditions varying from simple steatosis to inflammation and fibrosis. Over the last years, autophagic processes have been shown to be directly associated with the development and progression of these conditions. However, the precise role of autophagy in steatosis development is still unclear. Specifically, autophagy is necessary for the regulation of basic metabolism in hepatocytes, such as glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis, response to insulin and glucagon signaling, and cellular responses to free amino acid contents. Also, genetic knockout models for autophagy-related proteins suggest a critical relationship between autophagy and hepatic lipid metabolism, but some results are still ambiguous. While autophagy may seem necessary to support lipid oxidation in some contexts, other evidence suggests that autophagic activity can lead to lipid accumulation instead. This structured literature review aims to critically discuss, compare, and organize results over the last 10 years regarding rodent steatosis models that measured several autophagy markers, with genetic and pharmacological interventions that may help elucidate the molecular mechanisms involved.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Pamela A. Kakimoto
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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Identify Molecular Mechanisms of Jiangzhi Decoction on Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease by Network Pharmacology Analysis and Experimental Validation. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 2020:8829346. [PMID: 33415161 PMCID: PMC7753939 DOI: 10.1155/2020/8829346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 11/01/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Background Jiangzhi Decoction (JZD), a traditional herb mixture, has shown significant clinical efficacy against nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). However, its multicomponent and multitarget characteristics bring difficulty in deciphering its pharmacological mechanisms. Our study is aimed at identifying the core molecular mechanisms of JZD against NAFLD. Methods The active ingredients were searched from Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology (TCMSP) database and Traditional Chinese Medicine Integrated Database (TCMID). The targets of those ingredients were identified using ChemMapper database based on 3D structure similarity. NAFLD-related genes were searched from DisGeNET database and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Then, we performed protein-protein interaction (PPI) analysis, functional enrichment analysis, and constructed pathway networks of “herbs-active ingredients-candidate targets” and identified the core molecular mechanisms and key active ingredients in the network. Also, molecular docking was carried out to predict the ligands of candidate targets using SwissDock. Finally, the human hepatic L02 cell line was used to establish the NAFLD model in vitro. The effect and key molecules were validated by Oil Red O staining, biochemical assays, and quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). Results We found 147 active ingredients in JZD, 1285 targets of active ingredients, 401 NAFLD-related genes, and 59 overlapped candidate targets of JZD against NAFLD. 22 core targets were obtained by PPI analysis. Finally, nuclear receptor transcription and lipid metabolism regulation were found as the core molecular mechanisms of JZD against NAFLD by functional enrichment analysis. The candidate targets PPARα and LXRα were both docked with hyperin as the most favorable interaction, and HNF4α was docked with linolenic acid ethyl ester. According to in vitro experiments, it was found that JZD had an inhibitory effect on lipid accumulation and regulatory effects on cholesterol and triglycerides. Compared with OA group, the mRNA expression levels of PPARα and HNF4α were significantly upregulated in JZD group (P < 0.05), and LXRα was significantly downregulated (P < 0.001). Conclusion JZD might alleviate hepatocyte steatosis by regulating some key molecules related to nuclear receptor transcription and lipid metabolism, such as PPARα, LXRα, and HNF4α. Our study will provide the scientific evidences of the clinical efficacy of JZD against NAFLD.
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Guo J, Lou MP, Hu LL, Zhang X. Uncovering the pharmacological mechanism of the effects of the Banxia-Xiakucao Chinese Herb Pair on sleep disorder by a systems pharmacology approach. Sci Rep 2020; 10:20454. [PMID: 33235305 PMCID: PMC7686484 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-77431-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Sleep disorder (SD) has a high incidence and seriously affects quality of life, mental health and even the manifestation of physical diseases. The combination of Pinellia ternata (Chinese name: banxia) and Prunella vulgaris (Chinese name: xiakucao), known as the Banxia-Xiakucao Chinese herb pair (BXHP), is a proven Chinese herbal medicine that has been used to treat SD for thousands of years due to its significant clinical effects. However, its active pharmacological components and sedative-hypnotic mechanisms have not been fully elucidated. Thus, the present study used a systematic pharmacological approach to develop pharmacokinetic screens and target predictions via construction of a protein-protein interaction network and annotation database for SD-related and putative BXHP-related targets. Visualization, screening and integrated discovery enrichment analyses were conducted. The BXHP chemical database contains 166 compounds between the two herbal ingredients, and of these, 22 potential active molecules were screened by pharmacokinetic evaluation. The targets of 114 of the active molecules were predicted, and 34 were selected for further analysis. Finally, gene ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analyses suggested that BXHP can reduce inflammatory responses. and mediate immune-related and central nervous system neurotransmitters via regulation of multiple targets and pathways. The use of a systematic pharmacology-based approach in the present study further elucidated the mechanisms of action underlying BXHP for the treatment of SD from a holistic perspective and sheds light on the systemic mechanisms of action of Chinese herbal medicines in general.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Guo
- First Clincal Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, 548 Binwen Road, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Meng-Ping Lou
- First Clincal Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, 548 Binwen Road, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Lin-Lin Hu
- Guangxing Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, 453 Tiyuchang Road, Hangzhou, 310007, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xin Zhang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, 548 Binwen Road, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China.
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Xiao L, Liang S, Ge L, Qiu S, Wan H, Wu S, Fei J, Peng S, Zeng X. Si-Wei-Qing-Gan-Tang Improves Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis by Modulating the Nuclear Factor-κB Signal Pathway and Autophagy in Methionine and Choline Deficient Diet-Fed Rats. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:530. [PMID: 32425782 PMCID: PMC7206618 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2019] [Accepted: 04/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Si-Wei-Qing-Gan-Tang (SWQGT) is a Chinese medicine formula that is widely used as a folk remedy of herbal tea for the treatment of chronic hepatitis, like non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), around Ganzhou City (Jiangxi province, China). However, the underlying mechanisms of this formula against NASH are still unknown. This study aimed to explore the effect and mechanisms of SWQGT against NASH. A network pharmacology approach was used to predict the potential mechanisms of SWQGT against NASH. Then a rat model of NASH established by feeding the methionine and choline deficient (MCD) diet was used to verify the effect and mechanisms of SWQGT on NASH in vivo. SWQGT (1 g/kg/d and 3 g/kg/d) were given by intragastric administration. Body weight, liver weight, serum biochemical indicators, liver triglyceride and total cholesterol were all measured. Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), Interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6 levels in the livers were evaluated using ELISA. Hematoxylin and eosin (HE) and Oil Red O staining were used to determine histology, while western blot was used to assess the relative expression levels of the nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathway- and autophagy-related proteins. Functional and pathway enrichment analyses revealed that SWQGT obviously influenced inflammation-related signal pathways in NASH. Furthermore, in vivo experiment showed that SWQGT caused a reduction in liver weight and liver index of MCD diet-fed rats. The formula also helped to reduce hepatomegaly and improve pathological liver changes and hepatic steatosis. SWQGT likewise reduced liver TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 levels and down-regulated p-NF-κB p65, p-p38 MAPK, p-MEK1/2, p-ERK1/2, p-mTOR, and p62, while up-regulating p-ULK1 and LC3II protein expression levels. SWQGT could improve NASH in MCD diet-fed rats, and this effect may be associated with its down-regulation of NF-κB and activation of autophagy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingyun Xiao
- Centre Lab of Longhua Branch and Department of Infectious Disease, 2nd Clinical Medical College (Shenzhen People's Hospital) of Jinan University, Shenzhen, China.,Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine Postdoctoral Research Station, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shu Liang
- Centre Lab of Longhua Branch and Department of Infectious Disease, 2nd Clinical Medical College (Shenzhen People's Hospital) of Jinan University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Lanlan Ge
- Centre Lab of Longhua Branch and Department of Infectious Disease, 2nd Clinical Medical College (Shenzhen People's Hospital) of Jinan University, Shenzhen, China.,Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine Postdoctoral Research Station, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shuling Qiu
- Centre Lab of Longhua Branch and Department of Infectious Disease, 2nd Clinical Medical College (Shenzhen People's Hospital) of Jinan University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Haoqiang Wan
- Centre Lab of Longhua Branch and Department of Infectious Disease, 2nd Clinical Medical College (Shenzhen People's Hospital) of Jinan University, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Pathology (Longhua Branch), 2nd Clinical Medical College (Shenzhen People's Hospital) of Jinan University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Shipin Wu
- Centre Lab of Longhua Branch and Department of Infectious Disease, 2nd Clinical Medical College (Shenzhen People's Hospital) of Jinan University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jia Fei
- Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine Postdoctoral Research Station, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shusong Peng
- Department of Pathology (Longhua Branch), 2nd Clinical Medical College (Shenzhen People's Hospital) of Jinan University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiaobin Zeng
- Centre Lab of Longhua Branch and Department of Infectious Disease, 2nd Clinical Medical College (Shenzhen People's Hospital) of Jinan University, Shenzhen, China.,Guangdong Key Laboratory of Regional Immunity and Diseases, Shenzhen University School of Medicine, Shenzhen, China
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Li S, Xu Y, Guo W, Chen F, Zhang C, Tan HY, Wang N, Feng Y. The Impacts of Herbal Medicines and Natural Products on Regulating the Hepatic Lipid Metabolism. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:351. [PMID: 32265720 PMCID: PMC7105674 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2019] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The dysregulation of hepatic lipid metabolism is one of the hallmarks in many liver diseases including alcoholic liver diseases (ALD) and non-alcoholic fatty liver diseases (NAFLD). Hepatic inflammation, lipoperoxidative stress as well as the imbalance between lipid availability and lipid disposal, are direct causes of liver steatosis. The application of herbal medicines with anti-oxidative stress and lipid-balancing properties has been extensively attempted as pharmaceutical intervention for liver disorders in experimental and clinical studies. Although the molecular mechanisms underlying their hepatoprotective effects warrant further exploration, increasing evidence demonstrated that many herbal medicines are involved in regulating lipid accumulation processes including hepatic lipolytic and lipogenic pathways, such as mitochondrial and peroxisomal β-oxidation, the secretion of very low density lipoprotein (VLDL), the non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA) uptake, and some vital hepatic lipogenic enzymes. Therefore, in this review, the pathways or crucial mediators participated in the dysregulation of hepatic lipid metabolism are systematically summarized, followed by the current evidences and advances in the positive impacts of herbal medicines and natural products on the lipid metabolism pathways are detailed. Furthermore, several herbal formulas, herbs or herbal derivatives, such as Erchen Dection, Danshen, resveratrol, and berberine, which have been extensively studied for their promising potential in mediating lipid metabolism, are particularly highlighted in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Yibin Feng
- School of Chinese Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
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Liu B, Song Z, Yu J, Li P, Tang Y, Ge J. The atherosclerosis-ameliorating effects and molecular mechanisms of BuYangHuanWu decoction. Biomed Pharmacother 2020; 123:109664. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2019.109664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Revised: 11/01/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
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Wu RM, Jiang B, Li H, Dang WZ, Bao WL, Li HD, Ye G, Shen X. A network pharmacology approach to discover action mechanisms of Yangxinshi Tablet for improving energy metabolism in chronic ischemic heart failure. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2020; 246:112227. [PMID: 31509780 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2019.112227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2019] [Revised: 09/07/2019] [Accepted: 09/08/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Most cardiovascular diseases ultimately result in heart failure, an intractable problem in modern medicine. Yangxinshi tablet (YXS) is a Chinese medicine formula that is used clinically to treat coronary heart disease. However, the active compounds, potential targets, and pharmacological and molecular mechanism of its anti-heart failure activity remain unclear. Therefore, further investigation is required. AIM OF STUDY Active ingredients and potential targets of YXS for treating heart failure have been reported previously. However, the molecular functions or biological processes of YXS in energy metabolism have not been discovered. To date, no experimental study to validate the potential anti-heart failure mechanism of YXS. The aim of this study was to study the therapeutic effect of YXS on rats with chronic ischemic heart failure by evaluating rat cardiac function and exercise tolerance, and to explore its potential mechanism by network pharmacology, western blotting, quantitative RT-PCR and histological analysis. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this investigation, chronic ischemic heart failure rats were randomly assigned to five groups: control group (sham operation), model group (0.5% CMC-Na), trimetazidine group (positive control) and two YXS groups (low- and high-dose groups). Experimental rats were treated by gavage with 10 mg/kg/d (clinical equivalent dose) trimetazidine (TMZ), 500 mg/kg/d (clinical equivalent dose) YXS and 1000 mg/kg/d YXS, respectively, for 5 weeks. The cardiac functions of rats were detected by High-Resolution In Vivo Imaging System. We elucidated novel understanding of the active compounds of YXS in rat plasma and predicted the energy metabolism related targets and processes for heart failure. Then, we validated experimentally the targets and mechanism of YXS on these pathological processes in vivo. RESULTS It was found that YXS was able to effectively improve cardiac LVIDs, LVEDV, LVESV and EF, decrease myocardial oxygen consumption and reduce myocardial infarct size in rats with chronic ischemic heart failure was similar to that of TMZ. We identified 63 major candidate targets for YXS that are closely to heart failure progression. Enrichment analysis revealed key targets for YXS associated to oxygen delivery, glucose utilization, and mitochondrial biogenesis. Meanwhile, we validated that YXS could promote the expression of downstream HIF-1α, PGC1α and GLUT4 by increasing phosphorylation of PI3K, Akt, mTOR, rpS6 and AMPK. The results show that YXS could activate related PI3K/Akt/mTOR/rpS6/HIF-1α and AMPK/PGC1α/GLUT4 signaling pathways in chronic ischemic heart failure rats. Further experiments demonstrated that YXS increased mitochondrial biogenesis in chronic ischemic heart failure rats and improved exercise tolerance CONCLUSION: YXS treated chronic ischemic heart failure through activating its targets which play pivotal roles in oxygen delivery, glucose utilization and mitochondrial biogenesis to improve energy metabolism through a multi-component, multi-level, multi-target, multi-pathway and multi-mechanism approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruo-Ming Wu
- Central Research Institute, Shanghai Pharmaceuticals Holding Co., Ltd, Shanghai, China
| | - Bing Jiang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Department of Pharmacology of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hui Li
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wen-Zhen Dang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei-Lian Bao
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hai-Dong Li
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Guan Ye
- Central Research Institute, Shanghai Pharmaceuticals Holding Co., Ltd, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoyan Shen
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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Shi T, Wu L, Ma W, Ju L, Bai M, Chen X, Liu S, Yang X, Shi J. Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: Pathogenesis and Treatment in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2020; 2020:8749564. [PMID: 31998400 PMCID: PMC6969649 DOI: 10.1155/2020/8749564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2019] [Revised: 11/14/2019] [Accepted: 11/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) is one of the most important causes of liver disease worldwide and probably destined to become the leading cause of end-stage liver disease in the coming decades, affecting both adults and children. Faced with the severe challenges for the prevention and control of NAFLD, this article discusses the understanding and mechanism of NAFLD from Chinese and Western medicine. Moreover, the progress regarding its treatment in both Chinese and Western medicine is also summarized. Both Chinese medicine and Western medicine have their own characteristics and clinical efficacy advantages in treating diseases. The purpose of this article is to hope that Chinese and Western medicine have complementary advantages, complementing each other to improve clinical NAFLD therapy prevention and treatment methods to receive more and more attention throughout the global medical community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Shi
- The Hangzhou Xixi Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310023, Zhejiang, China
| | - Li Wu
- Center of Clinical Evaluation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, 54 Youdian Road, Hangzhou 310006, Zhejiang, China
| | - Wenjun Ma
- The Hangzhou Xixi Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310023, Zhejiang, China
| | - Liping Ju
- The Hangzhou Xixi Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310023, Zhejiang, China
| | - Minghui Bai
- The Hangzhou Xixi Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310023, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaowei Chen
- The Hangzhou Xixi Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310023, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shourong Liu
- The Hangzhou Xixi Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310023, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xingxin Yang
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Yunnan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1076 Yuhua Road, Kunming 650500, Yunnan, China
| | - Junping Shi
- Department of Liver Diseases, The Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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14
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Zhang S, Wong YT, Tang KY, Kwan HY, Su T. Chinese Medicinal Herbs Targeting the Gut-Liver Axis and Adipose Tissue-Liver Axis for Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Treatments: The Ancient Wisdom and Modern Science. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:572729. [PMID: 33101207 PMCID: PMC7556113 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.572729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the most common chronic liver diseases worldwide. The pathogenesis of NAFLD is complex. Frontline western medicines only ameliorate the symptoms of NAFLD. On the contrary, the uniqueness of Chinese medicine in its interpretation of NAFLD and the holistic therapeutic approach lead to a promising therapeutic efficacy. Recent studies reveal that the gut-liver axis and adipose tissue-liver axis play important roles in the development of NAFLD. Interestingly, with advanced technology, many herbal formulae are found to target the gut-liver axis and adipose tissue-liver axis and resolve the inflammation in NAFLD. This is the first review summarizes the current findings on the Chinese herbal formulae that target the two axes in NAFLD treatment. This review not only demonstrates how the ancient wisdom of Chinese medicine is being interpreted by modern pharmacological studies, but also provides valuable information for the further development of the herbal-based treatment for NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuwei Zhang
- International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yui-Tung Wong
- Centre for Cancer and Inflammation Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ka-Yu Tang
- Centre for Cancer and Inflammation Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Hiu-Yee Kwan
- Centre for Cancer and Inflammation Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
- *Correspondence: Hiu-Yee Kwan, ; Tao Su,
| | - Tao Su
- International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Hiu-Yee Kwan, ; Tao Su,
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Zhang XW, Liu W, Jiang HL, Mao B. Dissection of Pharmacological Mechanism of Chinese Herbal Medicine Yihuo Huatan Formula on Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: A Systems Pharmacology-Based Study. Sci Rep 2019; 9:13431. [PMID: 31530860 PMCID: PMC6748909 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-50064-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2019] [Accepted: 09/04/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is one of the most common respiratory diseases. Yihuo Huatan Formula (YHF), as a proven Chinese Herbal Medicine (CHM), has been verified to be effective in the treatment of stable COPD through years' of practice. Nevertheless, its working mechanism is still unclear. We sought to systematically decipher the mechanism of YHF for treating stable COPD using systems pharmacology-based method that integrates pharmacokinetic screening, target prediction, network analyses, GO and KEGG enrichment analyses. Firstly, a total of 1267 chemicals out of 15 herbal components were included in YHF chemical database. Among them, 180 potential active molecules were screened out through pharmacokinetic evaluation. Then 258 targets of the active molecules were predicted, of which 84 were chosen for further analyses. Finally, the network analyses and GO and KEGG enrichment methods suggested a therapeutic effect of YHF on the alleviation of airway inflammation, decrease of mucus secretion, maintenance of immune homeostasis and benefit of COPD comorbidities, by regulating multiple targets and pathways. The systems pharmacology-based approach helps to understand the underlying working mechanism of YHF in stable COPD from a holistic perspective, and offers an exemplification for systematically uncovering the action mechanisms of CHM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xia-Wei Zhang
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 37 Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P. R. China
| | - Wei Liu
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 37 Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P. R. China
- Division of Pulmonary Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, West China School of Medicine, Sichuan University, 1 Keyuansi Road, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P. R. China
| | - Hong-Li Jiang
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 37 Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P. R. China.
| | - Bing Mao
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 37 Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P. R. China
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