Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) as a source of new anticancer drugs

The anti-non-small cell lung cancer effect of Diosbulbin B: Targeting YY1 induced cell cycle arrest and apoptosis

BACKGROUND

Toxic components frequently exhibit unique characteristics and activities, offering ample opportunities for the advancement of anti-cancer medications. As the main hepatotoxic component of Dioscorea bulbifera L. (DB), Diosbulbin B (DIOB) has been widely studied for its anti-tumor activity at nontoxic doses. However, the effectiveness and mechanism of DIOB against non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains unclear.

PURPOSE

To evaluate the anti-NSCLC activity of DIOB and to elucidate the specific mechanism of action.

METHOD

The effect of DIOB on NSCLCL in vitro was evaluated through CCK8, colony formation, and flow cytometry. The in vivo efficacy and safety of DIOB in treating NSCLC were assessed using various techniques, including HE staining, tunel staining, immunohistochemistry, and biochemical index detection. To understand the underlying mechanism, cell transfection, western blotting, molecular docking, cellular thermal shift assay (CESTA), and surface plasmon resonance (SPR) were employed for investigation.

RESULTS

DIOB effectively hindered the progression of NSCLC both in vitro and in vivo settings at a no-observed-adverse-effect concentration (NOAEC) and a safe dosage. Specifically, DIOB induced significant G0/G1 phase arrest and apoptosis in A549, PC-9, and H1299 cells, while also notably inhibiting the growth of subcutaneous tumors in nude mice. Mechanistically, DIOB could directly interact with oncogene Yin Yang 1 (YY1) and inhibit its expression. The reduction in YY1 resulted in the triggering of the tumor suppressor P53, which induced cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in NSCLC cells by inhibiting the expression of Cyclin A2, B2, CDK1, CDK2, CDK4, BCL-2, and inducing the expression of BAX. In NSCLC cells, the induction of G0/G1 phase arrest and apoptosis by DIOB was effectively reversed when YY1 was overexpressed or P53 was knocked down. Importantly, we observed that DIOB exerted the same effect by directly influencing the expression of YY1-regulated c-Myc and BIM, particularly in the absence of P53.

CONCLUSION

For the inaugural investigation, this research unveiled the anti-NSCLC impact of DIOB, alongside its fundamental mechanism. DIOB has demonstrated potential as a treatment agent for NSCLC due to its impressive efficacy in countering NSCLC.

The effect of matrine and glycyrrhizic acid on porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus in Vitro and in vivo

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) is endemic worldwide, seriously affecting the development of the pig industry, but vaccines have limited protective effects against PRRSV transmission. The aim of this study was to identify potential anti-PRRSV drugs. We examined the cytotoxicity of seven compounds formulated based on the mass ratio of glycyrrhizic acid to matrine and calculated their inhibition rates against PRRSV in vitro. The results showed that the seven compounds all had direct killing and therapeutic effects on PRRSV, and the compounds inhibited PRRSV replication in a time- and dose-dependent manner. The compound with the strongest anti-PRRSV effect was selected for subsequent in vivo experiments. Pigs were divided into a control group and a medication group for the in vivo evaluation. The results showed that pigs treated with the 4:1 compound had 100% morbidity after PRRSV challenge, and the mortality rate reached 75% on the 8th day of the virus challenge. These results suggest that this compound has no practical anti-PRRSV effect in vivo and can actually accelerate the death of infected pigs. Next, we further analyzed the pigs that exhibited semiprotective effects following vaccination with the compound to determine whether the compound can synergize with the vaccine in vivo. The results indicated that pigs treated with the compound had higher mortality rates and more severe clinical reactions after PRRSV infection (p < 0.05). The levels of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-8, IL-1β, IFN-γ, and TNF-α) were significantly greater in the compound-treated pigs than in the positive control-treated pigs (p < 0.05), and there was no synergistic enhancement with the live attenuated PRRSV vaccine (p < 0.05). The compound enhanced the inflammatory response, prompted the body to produce excessive levels of inflammatory cytokines and caused body damage, preventing a therapeutic effect. In conclusion, the present study revealed that the in vitro effectiveness of these agents does not indicate that they are effective in vivo or useful for developing anti-PRRSV drugs. Our findings also showed that, to identify effective anti-PRRSV drugs, comprehensive drug screening is needed, for compounds with solid anti-inflammatory effects both in vitro and in vivo. Our study may aid in the development of new anti-PRRSV drugs.

Integrated component identification, network pharmacology, and experimental verification revealed mechanism of Dendrobium officinale Kimura et Migo against lung cancer

BACKGROUND

Dendrobium officinale Kimura et Migo (DO), a valuable Chinese herbal medicine, has been reported to exhibit potential effects in the prevention and treatment of lung cancer. However, its material basis and mechanism of action have not been comprehensively analyzed.

PURPOSE

The objective of this study was to preliminarily elucidate the active components and pharmacological mechanisms of DO in treating lung cancer, according to UPLC-Q/TOF-MS, HPAEC-PAD, network pharmacology, molecular docking, and experimental verification.

METHODS

The chemical components of DO were identified via UPLC-Q/TOF-MS, while the monosaccharide composition of Dendrobium officinale polysaccharide (DOP) was determined by HPAEC-PAD. The prospective active constituents of DO as well as their respective targets were predicted in the combined database of Swiss ADME and Swiss Target Prediction. Relevant disease targets for lung cancer were searched in OMIM, TTD, and Genecards databases. Further, the active compounds and potential core targets of DO against lung cancer were found by the C-T-D network and the PPI network, respectively. The core targets were then subjected to enrichment analysis in the Metascape database. The main active compounds were molecularly docked to the core targets and visualized. Finally, the viability of A549 cells and the relative quantity of associated proteins within the major signaling pathway were detected.

RESULTS

249 ingredients were identified from DO, including 39 flavonoids, 39 bibenzyls, 50 organic acids, 8 phenanthrenes, 27 phenylpropanoids, 17 alkaloids, 17 amino acids and their derivatives, 7 monosaccharides, and 45 others. Here, 50 main active compounds with high degree values were attained through the C-T-D network, mainly consisting of bibenzyls and monosaccharides. Based on the PPI network analysis, 10 core targets were further predicted, including HSP90AA1, SRC, ESR1, CREBBP, MAPK3, AKT1, PIK3R1, PIK3CA, HIF1A, and HDAC1. The results of the enrichment analysis and molecular docking indicated a close association between the therapeutic mechanism of DO and the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. It was confirmed that the bibenzyl extract and erianin could inhibit the multiplication of A549 cells in vitro. Furthermore, erianin was found to down-regulate the relative expressions of p-AKT and p-PI3K proteins within the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

This study predicted that DO could treat lung cancer through various components, multiple targets, and diverse pathways. Bibenzyls from DO might exert anti-lung cancer activity by inhibiting cancer cell proliferation and modulating the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. A fundamental reference for further studies and clinical therapy was given by the above data.

Hawthorn with "homology of medicine and food": a review of anticancer effects and mechanisms

Over the past few years, there has been a gradual increase in the incidence of cancer, affecting individuals at younger ages. With its refractory nature and substantial fatality rate, cancer presents a notable peril to human existence and wellbeing. Hawthorn, a medicinal food homology plant belonging to the Crataegus genus in the Rosaceae family, holds great value in various applications. Due to its long history of medicinal use, notable effects, and high safety profile, hawthorn has garnered considerable attention and plays a crucial role in cancer treatment. Through the integration of modern network pharmacology technology and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), a range of anticancer active ingredients in hawthorn have been predicted, identified, and analyzed. Studies have shown that ingredients such as vitexin, isoorientin, ursolic acid, and maslinic acid, along with hawthorn extracts, can effectively modulate cancer-related signaling pathways and manifest anticancer properties via diverse mechanisms. This review employs network pharmacology to excavate the potential anticancer properties of hawthorn. By systematically integrating literature across databases such as PubMed and CNKI, the review explores the bioactive ingredients with anticancer effects, underlying mechanisms and pathways, the synergistic effects of drug combinations, advancements in novel drug delivery systems, and ongoing clinical trials concerning hawthorn's anticancer properties. Furthermore, the review highlights the preventive health benefits of hawthorn in cancer prevention, offering valuable insights for clinical cancer treatment and the development of TCM with anticancer properties that can be used for both medicinal and edible purposes.

Turn-on mode probe based on the sustainable xanthohumol extract for the efficient viscosity response in a liquid system

Viscosity is a typical physical parameter and plays an important role in nutrient transferring, diffusion process regulating and safety warning. Aberrant mitochondrial viscosity is closely associated with an imbalance in a liquid system. Nevertheless, there is currently a lack of convenient and efficient tools for the mutation of viscosity detection at the molecular level. Herein, a natural product xanthohumol (XTH) was extracted from Humulus lupulus and used to measure the microenvironmental viscosity. Due to the existence of carbonyl and phenolic hydroxyl groups, a typical twisted intramolecular charge transfer (TICT) was formed. The conjugated single and double bonds can be employed as the rotatable site. Consequently, a turn-on method based on viscosity response is developed. High sensitivity (x = 0.56) with a remarkable enhancement (55-fold) toward viscosity and a visualized fluorescent signal can be found. In addition, it displays a single selectivity with excellent photostability and pH stability in the complex liquid system. Using the extracted XTH, a typical application toward the liquid spoilage process was performed and a positive correlation was noted. Given the comprehensive properties of XTH, liquid safety inspection at a molecular level with natural source-extracted products can be obtained.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of the anti-tumor effects of Paeoniae Radix Rubra in animal models

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Paeoniae Radix Rubra (PRR) is the dried root of Paeonia lactiflora Pall, which has been widely used to anti-thrombotic, lipid-lowering, anti-spasmodic, antioxidant, antibacterial, hepatoprotective, and anti-tumor in Chinese clinical practice. Recent research has demonstrated that PRR plays a significant anti-tumor role in animal models of tumor-bearing.

AIM OF THE STUDY

There has not been the evaluation of the anti-tumor effects of PRR. This study conducts a meta-analysis to assess the anti-tumor efficacy of PRR on animal models, providing scientific evidence for clinical application of PRR in the adjuvant therapy of tumors.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

English databases (PubMed, The Cochrane Library, Embase, and Web of Science) and Chinese databases (CNKI, WanFang, SinoMed, CTSJ-VIP) were used to search all pertinent animal studies investigating the anti-tumor effects of PRR and its extracts. The quality of the included studies was evaluated using the SYRCLE animal experiment risk assessment tool, and statistical analysis was carried out using Revman 5.3 software. Egger's test and funnel plots were used to assess potential publication bias in the studies.

RESULTS

The initial search produced a total of 3905 potentially pertinent studies, and 24 studies met the inclusion criteria. These studies included animal tumor models of hepatocellular carcinoma, lung cancer, sarcoma, bladder cancer, leukemia, colon cancer, glioblastoma, and pancreatic cancer. The meta-analysis findings demonstrated that both PRR and its extracts significantly inhibited tumor growth in animals. Compared with the control group, PRR substantively inhibited tumor volume (SMD, -3.09; 95% CI, [-4.05, -2.13]; P < 0.0001), reduced tumor weight (SMD, -1.08; 95% CI, [-1.37, -0.78]; P < 0.0001), decreased tumor number (SMD, -2.16; 95% CI, [-3.45, -0.86]; P = 0.001), and prolonged the survival duration time (SMD, 0.97; 95% CI, [0.23, 1.71]; P = 0.01) on the experimental animals.

CONCLUSIONS

PRR displayed a potential therapeutic efficacy on eight tumors in animal models including hepatocellular carcinoma, lung cancer, sarcoma, bladder cancer, leukemia, colon cancer, glioblastoma, and pancreatic cancer. However, the quality and quantity of included studies may affect the accuracy of positive results. In the future, more high-quality randomized controlled animal experiments are need for meta-analysis.

Liquiritin Alleviates Inflammation in Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Human Corneal Epithelial Cells

PURPOSE

This research was designed to elucidate the anti-inflammatory impacts of liquiritin on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated human corneal epithelial cells (HCECs).

METHODS

The Cell Counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay was adopted to assess cell viability. The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to detect the secretion levels of the proinflammatory cytokines IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α. Transcriptome analysis was conducted to identify the genes that exhibited differential expression between different treatment. The model group included cells treated with LPS (10 µg/mL), the treatment group comprised cells treated with liquiritin (80 µM) and LPS (10 µg/mL), and the control group consisted of untreated cells. To further validate the expression levels of the selected genes, including CSF2, CXCL1, CXCL2, CXCL8, IL1A, IL1B, IL24, IL6, and LTB, quantitative real-time PCR was performed. The expression of proteins related to the Akt/NF-κB signaling pathway was assessed through western blot analysis. NF-κB nuclear translocation was evaluated through immunofluorescence staining.

RESULTS

The secretion of IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α in LPS-induced HCECs was significantly downregulated by liquiritin. Based on the transcriptome analysis, the mRNA expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, namely IL-6, IL-8, IL-1β, IL-24, TNF-α, and IL-1α was overproduced by LPS stimulation, and suppressed after liquiritin treatment. Furthermore, the Western blot results revealed a remarkable reduction in the phosphorylation degrees of NF-κB p65, IκB, and Akt upon treatment with liquiritin. Additionally, immunofluorescence analysis confirmed liquiritin's inhibition of LPS-induced p65 nuclear translocation.

CONCLUSIONS

Collectively, these findings imply that liquiritin suppresses the expression of proinflammatory cytokines, and the anti-inflammatory impacts of liquiritin may be caused by its repression of the Akt/NF-κB signaling pathway in LPS-induced HCECs. These data indicate that liquiritin could provide a potential therapeutic application for inflammation-associated corneal diseases.

Synthesis of Rhodamine-Conjugated Lupane Type Triterpenes of Enhanced Cytotoxicity

Various conjugates with rhodamines were prepared by starting with betulinic acid (BA) and platanic acid (PA). The molecules homopiperazine and piperazine, which were identified in earlier research, served as linkers between the rhodamine and the triterpene. The pentacyclic triterpene's ring A was modified with two acetyloxy groups in order to possibly boost its cytotoxic activity. The SRB assays' cytotoxicity data showed that conjugates 13-22, derived from betulinic acid, had a significantly higher cytotoxicity. Of these hybrids, derivatives 19 (containing rhodamine B) and 22 (containing rhodamine 101) showed the best values with EC50 = 0.016 and 0.019 μM for A2780 ovarian carcinoma cells. Additionally, based on the ratio of EC50 values, these two compounds demonstrated the strongest selectivity between malignant A2780 cells and non-malignant NIH 3T3 fibroblasts. A375 melanoma cells were used in cell cycle investigations, which showed that the cells were halted in the G1/G0 phase. Annexin V/FITC/PI staining demonstrated that the tumor cells were affected by both necrosis and apoptosis.

A critical assessment of Traditional Chinese Medicine databases as a source for drug discovery

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has been used for thousands of years to treat human diseases. Recently, many databases have been devoted to studying TCM pharmacology. Most of these databases include information about the active ingredients of TCM herbs and their disease indications. These databases enable researchers to interrogate the mechanisms of action of TCM systematically. However, there is a need for comparative studies of these databases, as they are derived from various resources with different data processing methods. In this review, we provide a comprehensive analysis of the existing TCM databases. We found that the information complements each other by comparing herbs, ingredients, and herb-ingredient pairs in these databases. Therefore, data harmonization is vital to use all the available information fully. Moreover, different TCM databases may contain various annotation types for herbs or ingredients, notably for the chemical structure of ingredients, making it challenging to integrate data from them. We also highlight the latest TCM databases on symptoms or gene expressions, suggesting that using multi-omics data and advanced bioinformatics approaches may provide new insights for drug discovery in TCM. In summary, such a comparative study would help improve the understanding of data complexity that may ultimately motivate more efficient and more standardized strategies towards the digitalization of TCM.

Editing Tetrasubstituted Carbon: Dual C-O Bond Functionalization of Tertiary Alcohols Enabled by Palladium-Based Dyotropic Rearrangement

Many elegant asymmetric syntheses of enantioenriched tertiary alcohols have been developed, and both the transition metal-catalyzed and the radical-based peripheral functionalization of tertiary alcohols have attracted intensive research interest in recent years. However, directly editing tetrasubstituted carbons remains challenging. Herein, we report a Pd-catalyzed migratory fluoroarylation reaction that converts tertiary alcohols to α-fluorinated tertiary alkyl ethers in good to excellent yields. An unprecedented 1,2-aryl/PdIV dyotropic rearrangement along the C-O bond, integrated in a PdII-catalyzed domino process, is key to the dual functionalization of both the hydroxyl group and the tetrasubstituted carbon. This reaction, which is compatible with a broad range of functional groups, generates a tertiary alkyl fluoride and an alkyl-aryl ether functional group with inversion of the absolute configuration at the tetrasubstituted stereocenter.

Novel triterpenoid pyrones, phthalimides and phthalates are selectively cytotoxic in CCRF-CEM cancer cells - Synthesis, potency, and mitochondrial mechanism of action

A series of triterpenoid pyrones was synthesized and subsequently modified to introduce phthalimide or phthalate moieties into the triterpenoid skeleton. These compounds underwent in vitro cytotoxicity screening, revealing that a subset of six compounds exhibited potent activity, with IC50 values in the low micromolar range. Further biological evaluations, including Annexin V and propidium iodide staining experiment revealed, that all compounds induce selective apoptosis in cancer cells. Measurements of mitochondrial potential, cell cycle analysis, and the expression of pro- and anti-apoptotic proteins confirmed, that apoptosis was mediated via the mitochondrial pathway. These findings were further supported by cell cycle modulation and DNA/RNA synthesis studies, which indicated a significant increase in cell accumulation in the G0/G1 phase and a marked reduction in S-phase cells, alongside a substantial inhibition of DNA synthesis. The activation of caspase-3 and the cleavage of PARP, coupled with a decrease in the expression of Bcl-2 and Bcl-XL proteins, underscored the induction of apoptosis through the mitochondrial pathway. Given their high activity and pronounced effect on mitochondria function, trifluoromethyl pyrones 1f and 2f, and dihydrophthalimide 2h have been selected for further development.

Therapeutic target mapping from the genome of Kingella negevensis and biophysical inhibition assessment through PNP synthase binding with traditional medicinal compounds

Kingella negevensis belongs to the Neisseriaceae family. It is implied that it has significant virulence potential due to RTX toxin production, which can cause hemolysis. It usually colonizes the orophayrynx of pediatric population, along with Kingella kingae but has also been isolated from vagina. Todate no report on its drug targets is present, therefore putative therapeutic targets were identified from its genomic sequence data. Traditional Chinese (n > 36,000) and Indian medicinal compounds (n > 2000) were then screened against its pyridoxine 5'-phosphate synthase, a vital therapeutic target. Prioritized TCM compounds included ZINC02525131, ZINC33833737 and ZINC85486932, and Cadiyenol, 9,11,13-Octadecatrienoic acid and 6-Gingerol from Indian medicinal library. Molecular dynamics simulation of top compounds revealed ZINC02525131 as having best stability for 100 ns, compared to Cadiyenol. ADMET profiling was then done, along with physiologically based pharmacokinetic simulation of these compounds in a population of 200 individuals, for 12 h to see fate of the ingested compound. Additionally, the impact of these compounds in a population with cirrhosis and renal impairment was also simulated. We imply in light of all the studied parameters of safety and bioavailability, etc., that 6-Gingerol from Zingiber officinalis rhizome must be proceeded further for in vitro and in vivo testing for inhibition of K. negevensis.

Astraoleanosides E-P, oleanane-type triterpenoid saponins from the aerial parts of Astragalus membranaceus Bunge and their β-glucuronidase inhibitory activity

Historically, Astragalus membranaceus Bunge has been used as a beneficial medicinal plant, particularly in the Asian traditional medical systems, for the treatment of various human diseases such as stomach ulcers, diarrhea, and respiratory issues associated with phlegm. In this study, a phytochemical characterization of the aerial parts of A. membranaceusled to the isolation of 29 oleanane-type triterpenoid saponins, including 11 new compounds named astraoleanosides E-P (6-9, 13, 14, 18-22), as well as 18 known ones. The structures of these compounds were elucidated using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and high-resolution mass spectrometry. Among them, astraoleanoside H (9) and cloversaponin III (15) demonstrated the most potent β-glucuronidase inhibitory activities, with IC50 values of 21.20 ± 0.75 and 9.05 ± 0.47 µM, respectively, compared to the positive control d-saccharic acid 1,4-lactone (IC50 = 20.62 ± 1.61 µM). Enzyme kinetics studies were then conducted to investigate the type of inhibition exhibited by these active compounds. In addition, the binding mechanism, key interactions, binding stability, and dynamic behavior of protein-ligand complexes were investigated through in silico approaches, such as molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations. These findings highlight the promising potential of triterpenoid saponins from A. membranaceus as lead compounds for β-glucuronidase inhibitors, offering new possibilities for the development of therapeutic agents targeting various diseases where β-glucuronidase plays a crucial role.

Modified Bushen Yiqi Formula mitigates pulmonary inflammation and airway remodeling by inhibiting neutrophils chemotaxis and IL17 signaling pathway in rats with COPD

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a major global health concern characterized by pulmonary inflammation and airway remodeling. Traditional Chinese medicine, such as Modified Jiawei Bushen Yiqi Formula (MBYF), has been used as a complementary therapy for COPD in China.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To investigate the therapeutic potential of MBYF in a rat model of COPD induced by cigarette smoke (CS) exposure and explore the underlying mechanism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The COPD rat model was established through 24 weeks of CS exposure, with MBYF administration starting in the 9th week. Pulmonary function, histological analysis, inflammatory cell count and molecular assays were employed to assess the effects of MBYF on airway remodeling, pulmonary inflammation, neutrophils chemotaxis and the IL17 signaling pathway.

RESULTS

MBYF treatment effectively delayed airway remodeling, as evidenced by improved pulmonary function parameters. Histological examination and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid analysis revealed that MBYF mitigated CS-induced pulmonary inflammation by reducing inflammatory cell infiltration. Pharmacological network analysis suggested that MBYF may act through the IL17 signaling pathway to regulate inflammatory responses. RNA-sequencing and molecular assays indicated that MBYF inhibited neutrophils chemotaxis through downregulating the CXCL1/CXCL5/CXCL8-CXCR2 axis, and suppressed IL17A, IL17F and its downstream cytokines, including IL6, TNFα, IL1β, and COX2. Furthermore, MBYF inhibited the activation of NF-κB and MAPKs in the IL17 signaling pathway.

CONCLUSION

MBYF exhibits potential as an adjunct or alternative treatment for COPD, effectively mitigating CS-induced pulmonary inflammation and airway remodeling through the inhibition of neutrophil chemotaxis and IL17 signaling pathway.

α-Glucosidase Inhibitory Phytochemical Components of Chinese Endemic Plant Whitfordiodendron filipes var. tomentosum

Whitfordiodendron filipes var. tomentosum is an endemic plant in China. There have been no chemical or pharmacological studies of this plant reported before. In the current research, eight triterpenes and two steroids were obtained. Their structures were established by the analysis of NMR data and comparison with those reported in the literature. These ten structurally diverse compounds comprised five distinct carbon frameworks with different functionalities. The chemotaxonomic significance of these secondary metabolites was discussed, disclosing the common components between the variant W. filipes var. tomentosum and the species W. filipe. Evaluation of α-glucosidase inhibitory activities of these isolates disclosed that compounds 1, 2, 4, and 6 exhibited significant α-glucosidase inhibitory activities (IC50 = 16.6-19.2 μM), which were close in value to the positive control acarbose (IC50 = 11.5 μM). Moreover, the binding modes between the biologically active compounds 1, 2, 4, and 6 and the α-glucosidase protein were preliminarily studied using molecular docking. This study not only showed the chemical and biological profile of the plant W. filipes var. tomentosum but also revealed that these components could be developed as hypoglycemic lead compounds.

Growing attention on the toxicity of Chinese herbal medicine: a bibliometric analysis from 2013 to 2022

Introduction: Despite the clinical value of Chinese herbal medicine (CHM), restricted comprehension of its toxicity limits the secure and efficacious application. Previous studies primarily focused on exploring specific toxicities within CHM, without providing an overview of CHM's toxicity. The absence of a quantitative assessment of focal points renders the future research trajectory ambiguous. Therefore, this study aimed to reveal research trends and areas of concern for the past decade. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on publications related to CHM and toxicity over the past decade from Web of Science Core Collection database. The characteristics of the publication included publication year, journal, institution, funding, keywords, and citation counts were recorded. Co-occurrence analysis and trend topic analysis based on bibliometric analysis were conducted on keywords and citations. Results: A total of 3,225 publications were analyzed. Number of annal publications increased over the years, with the highest number observed in 2022 (n = 475). The Journal of Ethnopharmacology published the most publications (n = 425). The most frequently used toxicity classifications in keywords were hepatotoxicity (n = 119) or drug-induced liver injury (n = 48), and nephrotoxicity (n = 40). Co-occurrence analysis revealed relatively loose connections between CHM and toxicity, and their derivatives. Keywords emerging from trend topic analysis for the past 3 years (2019-2022) included ferroptosis, NLRP3 inflammasome, machine learning, network pharmacology, traditional uses, and pharmacology. Conclusion: Concerns about the toxicity of CHM have increased in the past decade. However, there remains insufficient studies that directly explore the intersection of CHM and toxicity. Hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity, as the most concerned toxicity classifications associated with CHM, warrant more in-depth investigations. Apoptosis was the most concerned toxicological mechanism. As a recent increase in attention, exploring the mechanisms of ferroptosis in nephrotoxicity and NLRP3 inflammasome in hepatotoxicity could provide valuable insights. Machine learning and network pharmacology are potential methods for future studies.

Modified Bushen Yiqi formula enhances antitumor immunity by reducing the chemotactic recruitment of M2-TAMs and PMN-MDSCs in Lewis lung cancer-bearing mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Modified Bushen Yiqi formula (MBYF) has shown efficacy as an herbal combination therapy with anti-PD-1 for lung cancer patients. However, the underlying mechanisms of its antitumor effects in lung cancer remain unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aims to observe the antitumor effect of MBYF and explore its synergistic mechanism in combination with anti-PD-1 based on the tumor immune microenvironment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The antitumor effect of MBYF was assessed in Lewis Lung Cancer (LLC)-bearing mice by evaluating tumor volume, weight, and histology in five groups (model control, MBYF 8.125 g/kg, MBYF 16.25 g/kg, MBYF 32.50 g/kg, anti-PD-1). Mechanisms were analyzed using pharmacology network and tumor RNA-sequencing. Tumor-infiltrating immune cells were measured by flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry. Targets and pathways were validated through qRT-PCR, immuno-histochemistry, and western blotting. The synergistic effect of MBYF in combination with anti-PD-1 was validated in three groups (model control, anti-PD-1, anti-PD-1+MBYF 16.25 g/kg).

RESULTS

MBYF inhibited tumor growth and proliferation and demonstrated safety for the heart, liver, and kidney. Mechanistically, MBYF downregulated tumor proliferation by suppressing the expression of CCND1, CTNNB1, EGFR, and the PI3K-AKT/STAT3/ERK pathway. Furthermore, MBYF may upregulated the antitumor immunity (CD4+T cells, active CD8+ T cells, and NK cells) by reducing the infiltration of M2-TAMs and PMN-MDSCs. MBYF may inhibit the recruitment of M2-TAMs by downregulating the CCR5-CCLs axis and PMN-MDSCs by the CXCR2-CXCLs axis. In vivo study confirmed that MBYF enhanced the antitumor effect of anti-PD-1 therapy.

CONCLUSION

Modified Bushen Yiqi formula enhances antitumor immunity in the treatment of lung cancer by reducing the chemotactic recruitment of M2-TAMs and PMN-MDSCs, suggesting its potential as an adjunct therapy to enhance anti-PD-1 responses and improve treatment outcomes. Further research and clinical studies are needed to validate and expand upon these promising findings.

Progress in the treatment of lung adenocarcinoma by integrated traditional Chinese and Western medicine

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) overwhelmingly represents the predominant histological subtype of lung cancer, with lung adenocarcinoma emerging as the most prevalent form. Conventional Western medical treatments encompass a spectrum of modalities, including surgical interventions, cytotoxic chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted pharmacotherapy, and immunotherapy. In contrast, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) methodologies encompass traditional Chinese medicine treatments, acupuncture therapies, and tuina treatments. While conventional Western medicine has made remarkable strides in the treatment of lung cancer, it is important to acknowledge the limitations inherent in singular treatment approaches. Consequently, the quest for a more comprehensive and integrative therapeutic paradigm becomes imperative. A deficiency of evaluation criteria specific to lung adenocarcinoma treatment in the realm of TCM represents an outstanding challenge in need of resolution. Nonetheless, in the backdrop of the continuous evolution of lung adenocarcinoma treatment modalities, the amalgamation of Chinese and Western medical approaches for treating this condition has exhibited a promising trajectory. It not only contributes to mitigating toxicity and augmenting efficacy but also serves to reduce a spectrum of postoperative complications, thereby enhancing the quality of patients' survival and extending life expectancy. This article furnishes a comprehensive survey of the research advancements in the integration of Chinese and Western medical approaches for treating lung adenocarcinoma. It elucidates the merits and demerits of individual and combined therapeutic strategies, surmounts current limitations, underscores the virtues of amalgamating Chinese and Western medical paradigms, and offers a more holistic, integrated, and efficacious treatment blueprint.

Rare ginsenosides: A unique perspective of ginseng research

BACKGROUND

Rare ginsenosides (Rg3, Rh2, C-K, etc.) refer to a group of dammarane triterpenoids that exist in low natural abundance, mostly produced by deglycosylation or side chain modification via physicochemical processing or metabolic transformation in gut, and last but not least, exhibited potent biological activity comparing to the primary ginsenosides, which lead to a high concern in both the research and development of ginseng and ginsenoside-related nutraceutical and natural products. Nevertheless, a comprehensive review on these promising compounds is not available yet.

AIM OF REVIEW

In this review, recent advances of Rare ginsenosides (RGs) were summarized dealing with the structurally diverse characteristics, traditional usage, drug discovery situation, clinical application, pharmacological effects and the underlying mechanisms, structure-activity relationship, toxicity, the stereochemistry properties, and production strategies.

KEY SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS OF REVIEW

A total of 144 RGs with diverse skeletons and bioactivities were isolated from Panax species. RGs acted as natural ligands on some specific receptors, such as bile acid receptors, steroid hormone receptors, and adenosine diphosphate (ADP) receptors. The RGs showed promising bioactivities including immunoregulatory and adaptogen-like effect, anti-aging effect, anti-tumor effect, as well as their effects on cardiovascular and cerebrovascular system, central nervous system, obesity and diabetes, and interaction with gut microbiota. Clinical trials indicated the potential of RGs, while high quality data remains inadequate, and no obvious side effects was found. The stereochemistry properties induced by deglycosylation at C (20) were also addressed including pharmacodynamics behaviors, together with the state-of-art analytical strategies for the identification of saponin stereoisomers. Finally, the batch preparation of targeted RGs by designated strategies including heating or acid/ alkaline-assisted processes, and enzymatic biotransformation and biosynthesis were discussed. Hopefully, the present review can provide more clues for the extensive understanding and future in-depth research and development of RGs, originated from the worldwide well recognized ginseng plants.

Alpha-Momorcharin, a type I ribosome inactivating protein, induced apoptosis of hepatocellular carcinoma SK-HEP-1 cells through mitochondrial pathway

Alpha-Momorcharin (α-MMC), as one of the most important type I RIPs, has been reported to exert inhibitory effects against various tumour cells through its N-glycosidase activity. The present study was designed to propose an efficient purification strategy and explored its mechanism of apoptosis signalling pathway against human liver cancer cells SK-Hep-1. α-MMC can be successfully obtained by our purification strategy combining ion-exchange and gel-filtration chromatography. The functional studies revealed that α-MMC obviously increased the level of ROS and apoptosis rate, induced cell cycle arrest in the G1 phase, and depolarised MMP of SK-Hep-1 cells. To further confirm whether α-MMC could induce mitochondria involved apoptosis, we found that PARP-1, Caspase-3, Caspase-9, and BCL-2 were downregulated upon α-MMC. Taken together, these results suggested that this natural purified α-MMC can induce apoptosis involved mitochondria and may serve as a potential novel therapeutic drug in the treatment of human liver cancer in the future.

Caffeic acid, a natural extract, as an activatable molecular probe for viscosity detection in a liquid system

Liquids, functioning as nutrients and energy systems, regulate various functions during storage programs. Microenvironmental viscosity is one of the most important physical parameters associated with the extent of deterioration, and it is crucial to monitor the mutation of viscosity at a molecular level. Herein, we utilized caffeic acid (CaC), a natural product extracted from thistles, as a molecular probe for viscosity sensing. CaC contains phenol hydroxyl (electron-donor) and carboxyl (electron-acceptor) groups, with both moieties connected by conjugated single and double bonds, forming a typical twisted intramolecular charge transfer system. The fluorescent probe CaC, obtained from a natural product without any chemical processing, exhibits high sensitivity (x = 0.43) toward viscosity, with an obvious visualized turn-on signal. Moreover, it displays good photostability, selectivity, and wide universality in commercial liquids. Utilizing CaC, we have successfully visualized viscosity enhancement during the spoilage process, with a positive correlation between the degree of liquid spoilage and microenvironmental viscosity. Thus, this study will provide a convenient and efficient molecular probe for food safety inspection across the boundaries of traditional biological applications.

Linggui Zhugan decoction delays ventricular remodeling in rats with chronic heart failure after myocardial infarction through the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway

CONTEXT

Traditional Chinese medicine plays an important role in the prevention and treatment of heart failure (HF). Linggui Zhugan decoction has been approved for clinical treatment of chronic HF. However, the mechanism is still unclear.

OBJECTIVE

The effect of Linggui Zhugan decoction on the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in rat myocardium was studied to investigate the mechanism by Linggui Zhugan decoction effects ventricular remodeling in rats with heart failure after myocardial infarction.

METHOD

A rat model of HF after myocardial infarction was prepared by ligating the left anterior descending coronary artery. After 6 weeks of intervention with Linggui Zhugan decoction, the effect of Linggui Zhugan decoction on the cardiac function of chronic HF model rats was observed. Myocardial infarct size was measured by triphenyl tetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining. Enzyme linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) were used to measure NT-proBNP and sST-2 concentrations in rat serum. Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining, and Masson's trichrome staining were used to observe the morphology of myocardial tissue; immunohistochemistry was used to detect the protein expression of type I collagen and type III collagen in myocardial tissue; and mRNA expression levels of Wnt3a, GSK-3β, β-catenin, and c-Myc in the infarct marginal zone were detected using PCR. Protein expression of Wnt3a, p-GSK-3β, GSK-3β, and β-catenin in the infarct marginal zone was detected using western blot.

RESULTS

Compared with the control, Linggui Zhugan decoction reduced the levels of serum ST-2 and NT-proBNP, improved cardiac function, and reduced the deposition of collagen fiber. In addition, Linggui Zhugan decoction inhibited the expression of Wnt3a, p-GSK-3β, and β-catenin in cardiomyocytes.

CONCLUSION

Linggui Zhugan decoction inhibits the expression of several key proteins in the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, delays cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and fibrosis, and improves cardiac function.

Stereo-Controlled Synthesis of Vicinal Tertiary Carbinols: Application in the Synthesis of a Diol Substructure of Zaragozic Acid, Pactamycin and Ryanodol

A novel and flexible approach for the stereo-controlled synthesis of vicinal tertiary carbinols is reported. The developed strategy featured a highly diastereoselective singlet-oxygen (O2 1 ) [4+2] cycloaddition of rationally designed cyclohexadienones (derived from oxidative dearomatization of the corresponding carboxylic-acid appended phenol precursors), followed by programmed "O-O" and "C-C" bond cleavage. In doing so, a highly functionalized and versatile intermediate was identified and prepared in synthetically useful quantity as a plausible precursor to access a variety of designed and naturally occurring vicinal tertiary carbinol containing compounds. Most notably, the developed strategy was successfully applied in the stereo-controlled synthesis of advanced core structures of zaragozic acid, pactamycin and ryanodol.

The protective mechanism of Dehydromiltirone in diabetic kidney disease is revealed through network pharmacology and experimental validation

Background: Salvia miltiorrhiza (SM) is an effective traditional Chinese medicine for treating DKD, but the exact mechanism is elusive. In this study, we aimed to investigate and confirm the method underlying the action of the active components of SM in the treatment of DKD. Methods: Renal tissue transcriptomics and network pharmacology of DKD patients was performed to identify the active components of SM and the disease targets of DKD. Next, the point of convergence among these three groups was studied. Potential candidate genes were identified and analyzed using Gene Ontology (GO) and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG). The component-target networks were modelled and visualized with Cytoscape. In addition, docking studies were performed to validate our potential target predictions. Lastly, in vitro and in vivo experiments were performed to understand the role of Dehydromiltirone (DHT), the active component of SM, in the phenotypic switching of mesangial cells. Results: Transcriptomics of DKD patients' renal tissues screened 4,864 differentially expressed genes. Eighty-nine active components of SM and 161 common targets were found. Functional enrichment analysis indicated that 161 genes were enriched in apoptosis, the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway, and the AGE-RAGE signaling pathway in diabetes complications. Molecular docking and molecular dynamic simulations show that DHT can bind to functional PIK3CA pockets, thereby becoming a possible inhibitor of PIK3CA. In vitro study demonstrated that DHT reduced the expression of phenotypic switching markers α-SMA, Col-I, and FN in HMCs by downregulating the over-activation of the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway through the inhibition of PIK3CA. Furthermore, the DKD mouse model confirmed that DHT could reduce proteinuria and improve glomerular hypertrophy in vivo. Conclusion: DHT was identified as the key active component of SM, and its therapeutic effect on DKD was achieved by inhibiting the phenotypic switching of mesangial cells via the PIK3CA signaling pathway.

Investigation of target genes and potential mechanisms related to compound Xiao-ai-fei honey ointment based on network pharmacology and bioinformatics analysis

BACKGROUND

Compound Xiao-ai-fei honey ointment (CXHO) is an anticancer preparation with a long history in Uyghur folk medicine in China and has been used for the treatment of gastric cancer (GC) in Xinjiang, China. Nevertheless, the mechanism of its anticancer effect remains to be investigated.

METHODS

Bioactive ingredients of CXHO were retrieved from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform database. Target genes of ingredients were acquired via the PubChem and Swiss target prediction database. Gene expression profiling of GC was obtained from GSE54129 in the GEO database and analyzed using the limma package in R. The hub genes associated with CXHO in GC were validated using the TIMER2.0 database, GEPIA2 database and Auto Dock tools. The effect of CXHO on migration of GC cells was detected by Transwell chamber assay and Wound healing assay. The effect of CXHO on expression levels of MMP2/MMP9 and NF-κb, PI3K/AKT signaling pathway was detected by Western blot assay.

RESULTS

Forty-five bioactive ingredients and their 819 related genes were found. A total of 462 differentially expressed genes were identified between GC patients and healthy controls. Seventeen common target genes were identified as hub genes CXHO against GC. Among them, MMP2 and MMP9 were significantly associated with tumor immune infiltrates and had good binding affinity with effective ingredients. Moreover, we validated the mRNA and protein expression levels and prognostic value of MMP2 and MMP9 by different databases. In addition, Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes and gene ontology analyses showed that the 17 common target genes were mainly involved in steroid hormone biosynthesis and cancer-related pathways. Experimental results showed that CXHO inhibited migration of GC cells and down regulated the expression levels of MMP2/MMP9, NF-κb. In addition, CXHO can inhibited PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.

CONCLUSION

We identified and experimental validated 2 pivotal target genes of CXHO against GC and preliminarily analyzed the potential mechanisms by which CXHO inhibits the development of GC. All these findings support CXHO as a promising drug for the treatment of GC.

Developing a Core Outcome Set for Assessing Clinical Safety Outcomes of Prostate Cancer in Clinical Trials of Traditional Chinese Medicine: Protocol for a Mixed Methods Study

BACKGROUND

Among the common malignant tumors in men worldwide, the incidence of prostate cancer ranks second to lung cancer. This disease will bring an economic burden to patients and their families and can reduce the quality of life of patients. Researchers have conducted numerous clinical trials on the efficacy and safety of different interventions in the treatment of prostate cancer with traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) combined with standard treatment regimens. However, the currently published clinical trials exhibit inconsistent and irregular reporting of outcome measures.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this paper is to emphasize the need for a core outcome set (COS) to facilitate future prostate cancer research, aiming to improve the quality of trials and generate high-quality evidence.

METHODS

This mixed methods project has three phases, as follows: (1) a scoping review of the literature to identify outcomes that have been reported in clinical trials and systematic reviews of interventions involving TCM for the treatment of prostate cancer as well as a qualitative component using interviews to obtain the views of patients with prostate cancer, their families, and their caregivers who have a history of TCM treatment; (2) a Delphi survey among stakeholders to prioritize the core outcomes-Participants will include traditional Chinese and Western medicine clinicians in prostate cancer-related directions, nurses, and methodology experts who will participate in 2 rounds of the Delphi method expert consultation to score each outcome in the list of outcome indicators; and (3) a face-to-face consensus meeting to discuss and agree on the final COS for the application of TCM in the treatment of prostate cancer.

RESULTS

The protocol has been registered in PROSPERO (CRD42022356184) before the start of the review process, and we will initiate the review on August 1, 2023; results should be expected by September 1, 2023. The Delphi survey among stakeholders is expected to start in October 2023.

CONCLUSIONS

The development of a core outcome set for assessing clinical safety outcomes of prostate cancer in clinical trials of TCM will provide a significant first step to assist Chinese doctors, researchers, and policy makers.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

PROSPERO CRD42022356184; https://tinyurl.com/ysakz74r.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID)

PRR1-10.2196/46794.

Formation of a traditional Chinese medicine self-assembly nanostrategy and its application in cancer: a promising treatment

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been used for centuries to prevent and treat a variety of illnesses, and its popularity is increasing worldwide. However, the clinical applications of natural active components in TCM are hindered by the poor solubility and low bioavailability of these compounds. To address these issues, Chinese medicine self-assembly nanostrategy (CSAN) is being developed. Many active components of TCM possess self-assembly properties, allowing them to form nanoparticles (NPs) through various noncovalent forces. Self-assembled NPs (SANs) are also present in TCM decoctions, and they are closely linked to the therapeutic effects of these remedies. SAN is gaining popularity in the nano research field due to its simplicity, eco-friendliness, and enhanced biodegradability and biocompatibility compared to traditional nano preparation methods. The self-assembly of active ingredients from TCM that exhibit antitumour effects or are combined with other antitumour drugs has generated considerable interest in the field of cancer therapeutics. This paper provides a review of the principles and forms of CSAN, as well as an overview of recent reports on TCM that can be used for self-assembly. Additionally, the application of CSAN in various cancer diseases is summarized, and finally, a concluding summary and thoughts are proposed. We strongly believe that CSAN has the potential to offer fresh strategies and perspectives for the modernization of TCM.

Pulsatilla Decoction and its bioactive component β-peltatin induce G2/M cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in pancreatic cancer

BACKGROUND

Pancreatic cancer (PAC), a malignancy that is fatal and commonly diagnosed at a late stage. Despite considerable advancements in cancer treatment, the survival rate of PAC remains largely consistent for the past 60 years. The traditional Chinese medicine formula Pulsatilla Decoction (PD) has been clinically used to treat inflammatory diseases for millennia and recently as a supplementary anti-cancer treatment in China. However, the bioactive ingredients and mechanisms underlying its anti-cancer effect remains unclear.

METHODS

The composition and quality control of PD were verified through analysis by high performance liquid chromatography. Cell viability was determined using Cell Counting Kit-8 assay. The cell cycle distribution was analyzed through PI staining and flow cytometry analysis, while apoptotic cells were measured by double staining with Annexin V-FITC and PI. We used immunoblotting to examine protein expressions. The in vivo effects of β-peltatin and podophyllotoxin were evaluated on a subcutaneously-xenografted BxPC-3 cell nude mice model.

RESULTS

The current study demonstrated that PD markedly inhibited PAC cell proliferation and triggered their apoptosis. Four herbal PD formula was then disassembled into 15 combinations of herbal ingredients and a cytotoxicity assay showed that the Pulsatillae chinensis exerted the predominant anti-PAC effect. Further investigation indicated that β-peltatin was potently cytotoxic with IC₅₀ of ~ 2 nM. β-peltatin initially arrested PAC cells at G2/M phase, followed by apoptosis induction. Animal study confirmed that β-peltatin significantly suppressed the growth of subcutaneously-implanted BxPC-3 cell xenografts. Importantly, compared to podophyllotoxin that is the parental isomer of β-peltatin but clinically obsoleted due to its severe toxicity, β-peltatin exhibited stronger anti-PAC effect and lower toxicity in mice.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results demonstrate that Pulsatillae chinensis and particularly its bioactive ingredient β-peltatin suppress PAC by triggering cell cycle arrest at G2/M phase and apoptosis.

Thevetia peruviana leaves, HPLC profile, isolation, and in vitro cytotoxicity

Phytochemicals have played a significant role in the discovery of many clinically anticancer medicines. Thevetia peruviana being famous as an ornamental plant, widely cultivated, and including a wide variety of secondary metabolites this motivated us to explore more about its potential medical applications. In this study, the total methanol extract of T. peruviana leaves (family Apocyanaceae) was sequentially fractionated into hexane, methylene chloride, ethyl acetate, and butanol fractions. The total phenolic content of the methanol extract of T. peruviana was determined spectrophotometrically and found to be 72.37 mg g^-1, while the total flavonoid content was found to be 12.47 mg g^-1. Fourteen polyphenolic compounds were detected by the HPLC analysis of the methanol extract, in addition to five phenolic compounds, which were isolated and identified for the first time from the EtOAc extract. They were identified as gallic acid (C1), chlorogenic acid (C2), p-coumaric acid (C3), quercetin (C4), and rutin (C5). The structures were elucidated by NMR and EI/MS spectroscopic techniques. The cytotoxic activity of the methanol extract was evaluated in vitro by cell viability assay. The cytotoxicity results showed significant anticancer activity against human colon carcinoma HCT-116 with IC₅₀ 39.3 μg mL^-1 and lesser activity against human lung carcinoma A-549 and human breast carcinoma MCF-7 cell lines with IC₅₀ 93.4 and 110.3 μg mL^-1, respectively.

Green extract rosemary acid as a viscosity-sensitive molecular sensor in liquid systems

The liquid micro-environment plays a momentous role in the regulation of various activities, and the abnormal changes are often closely related to the deterioration phenomena in multiple beverages. The local viscosity fluctuation has long been regarded as a key indicator to reflect the micro-environmental status changes. Herein, we proposed a versatile optical sensor, rosmarinic acid (RA), one kind of green natural product extracted from rosemary, for monitoring liquid micro-environmental viscosity alterations. RA displays a larger Stokes shift (123.8 nm) with narrow-band energy and exhibits wide adaptability, high selectivity, good sensitivity, and excellent photostability in various commercial liquids. When in high viscous media, a bright fluorescent signal of RA is specifically activated, and a high signal-to-noise ratio signal was released (58-fold). With the assistance of the fluorescence analytical technique, we have successfully achieved tracking the viscosity fluctuations during the deterioration stage of liquids via an in situ and visualization method. Our study will spur additional research on the molecular tools extracted from natural products for liquid safety inspection, and a convenient and sustainable application pathway has been established.

Jiawei Yanghe Decoction suppresses breast cancer by regulating immune responses via JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Jiawei Yanghe Decoction (JWYHD) is a widely used traditional Chinese medicine prescription in the clinical setting for the treatment of autoimmune diseases. Many studies showed that JWYHD has anti-tumor activities in cell and animal models. However, the anti-breast cancer effects of JWYHD and the underlying mechanisms of action remain unknown.

AIM OF STUDY

This study aimed to determine the anti-breast cancer effect and reveal the underlying mechanisms of action in vivo, in vitro and in silico.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Orthotopic xenograft breast cancer mouse model and inflammatory zebrafish model were used to observe the anti-tumor effect and immune cell regulation of JWYHD. Moreover, the anti-inflammatory effect of JWYHD were evaluated by the expression of RAW 264.7 cells. JWYHD active ingredients were obtained by UPLC-MS/MS and potential targets were screened by network pharmacology. The therapeutic targets and signaling pathways predicted by computer were assessed by Western blot, real-time PCR (RT-PCR), immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining, and Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) to explore the therapeutic mechanism of JWYHD against breast cancer. At last, Colivelin and Stattic were used to explore the effect of JWYHD on JAK2/STAT3 pathway.

RESULTS

JWYHD significantly decreased the tumor growth in a dose-dependent manner in the orthotopic xenograft breast cancer mouse model. Flow cytometry and IHC results indicated that JWYHD decreased the expressions of M2 macrophages and Treg while increasing M1 macrophages. Meanwhile, ELISA and Western blot results showed a decrease in IL-1β, IL-6, TNFα, PTGS2 and VEGFα in tumor tissue of JWYHD groups. The results were also verified in LPS-induced RAW264.7 cells and zebrafish inflammatory models. TUNEL assay and IHC results showed that JWYHD significantly induced apoptosis. Seventy-two major compounds in JWYHD were identified by UPLC-MS/MS and Network pharmacology. It was found that the significant binding affinity of JWYHD to TNFα, PTGS2, EGFR, STAT3, VEGFα and their expressions were inhibited by JWYHD. IHC and Western blot analysis showed that JWYHD could decrease the expression of JAK2/STAT3 pathway. Furthermore, Colivelin could reverse the decrease effect of JWYHD in vitro.

CONCLUSION

JWYHD exerts a significant anti-tumor effect mainly by inhibiting inflammation, activating immune responses and inducing apoptosis via the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway. Our findings provide strong pharmacological evidence for the clinical application of JWYHD in the management of breast cancer.

The role of the ferroptosis pathway in the regulation of polysaccharides for human health: A review

Polysaccharides are natural polymers with ketone or aldehyde groups that are widely found in plants, animals, and microorganisms. They exhibit various biological activities and have potential development value in the food and pharmaceutical fields. Ferroptosis is a recently discovered modality that modulates cell death and has attracted considerable attention because it is considered to be involved in many pathophysiological processes. The inhibition of ferroptosis by reducing intracellular iron accumulation and lipid peroxidation may provide potential protective strategies against related pathologies. Ferroptosis is also involved in the physiological activities of polysaccharides, and its regulatory mechanism varies according to different physiological activities. However, a systematic summary on the involvement of ferroptosis in the physiological activities of polysaccharides is currently lacking. Therefore, this review systematically summarized the relationship between the physiological activities of polysaccharides and ferroptosis and focused on the regulatory mechanism of ferroptosis, with respect to the anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory activities of all polysaccharides. The primary objective was to find new polysaccharide-related therapeutic breakthroughs for related diseases and to provide a reference for further research on polysaccharides-based therapeutics.

Active ingredients of traditional Chinese medicine for enhancing the effect of tumor immunotherapy

Immunotherapy is a type of treatment that uses our own immune system to fight cancer. Studies have shown that traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has antitumor activity and can enhance host immunity. This article briefly describes the immunomodulatory and escape mechanisms in tumors, as well as highlights and summarizes the antitumor immunomodulatory activities of some representative active ingredients of TCM. Finally, this article puts forward some opinions on the future research and clinical application of TCM, aiming to promote the clinical applications of TCM in tumor immunotherapy and to provide new ideas for the research of tumor immunotherapy using TCM.

Modulation of AKT Pathway-Targeting miRNAs for Cancer Cell Treatment with Natural Products

Many miRNAs are known to target the AKT serine-threonine kinase (AKT) pathway, which is critical for the regulation of several cell functions in cancer cell development. Many natural products exhibiting anticancer effects have been reported, but their connections to the AKT pathway (AKT and its effectors) and miRNAs have rarely been investigated. This review aimed to demarcate the relationship between miRNAs and the AKT pathway during the regulation of cancer cell functions by natural products. Identifying the connections between miRNAs and the AKT pathway and between miRNAs and natural products made it possible to establish an miRNA/AKT/natural product axis to facilitate a better understanding of their anticancer mechanisms. Moreover, the miRNA database (miRDB) was used to retrieve more AKT pathway-related target candidates for miRNAs. By evaluating the reported facts, the cell functions of these database-generated candidates were connected to natural products. Therefore, this review provides a comprehensive overview of the natural product/miRNA/AKT pathway in the modulation of cancer cell development.

Sustainable natural chlorogenic acid as a functional molecular sensor toward viscosity detection in liquids

Liquids are perishable at ease during the long-term transportation and storage processes, non-invasive and in situ inspection method is urgent to be developed. In consideration of the important role of viscosity, one kind of sustainable natural product chlorogenic acid (CA) extracted from honeysuckle has been used as a versatile optical sensor for viscosity determination during the liquid spoilage process. The natural molecule was conducted by the O-diphenyl and carboxylic acid ester groups in coincidence, a typical twisted intramolecular charge transfer phenomenon was formed. This sensor features wide adaptability, high selectivity, good sensitivity, and excellent photo stability in various liquids. And CA displays a larger Stokes shift, high viscosity sensitive coefficient (0.62), and narrower energy band. The rotatable conjugate structure can be acted as the recognition site, and the bright fluorescent signal of CA is specifically activated when in the high viscous micro-environment. Inspired by this objective phenomenon, CA has been applied to detect the thickening efficiency of various food thickeners. More importantly, the viscosity fluctuations during the deterioration stage of liquids can be screened through non-invasive and in situ monitoring. We expected that more natural products can be developed as molecular tools for liquids safety investigation, and fluorescent analytical methods can be expanded toward interdisciplinary research.

Use of traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment and prevention of COVID-19 and rehabilitation of COVID-19 patients: An evidence mapping study

Background: The potential effectiveness of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) against "epidemic diseases" has highlighted the knowledge gaps associated with TCM in COVID-19 management. This study aimed to map the matrix for rigorously assessing, organizing, and presenting evidence relevant to TCM in COVID-19 management. Methods: In this study, we used the methodology of evidence mapping (EM). Nine electronic databases, the WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP) Search Portal, ClinicalTrials.gov, gray literature, reference lists of articles, and relevant Chinese conference proceedings, were searched for articles published until 23 March 2022. The EndNote X9, Rayyan, EPPI, and R software were used for data entry and management. Results: In all, 126 studies, including 76 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and 50 systematic reviews (SRs), met our inclusion criteria. Of these, only nine studies (7.14%) were designated as high quality: four RCTs were assessed as "low risk of bias" and five SRs as "high quality." Based on the research objectives of these studies, the included studies were classified into treatment (53 RCTs and 50 SRs, 81.75%), rehabilitation (20 RCTs, 15.87%), and prevention (3 RCTs, 2.38%) groups. A total of 76 RCTs included 59 intervention categories and 57 efficacy outcomes. All relevant trials consistently demonstrated that TCM significantly improved 22 outcomes (i.e., consistent positive outcomes) without significantly affecting four (i.e., consistent negative outcomes). Further, 50 SRs included nine intervention categories and 27 efficacy outcomes, two of which reported consistent positive outcomes and two reported consistent negative outcomes. Moreover, 45 RCTs and 38 SRs investigated adverse events; 39 RCTs and 30 SRs showed no serious adverse events or significant differences between groups. Conclusion: This study provides evidence matrix mapping of TCM against COVID-19, demonstrating the potential efficacy and safety of TCM in the treatment and prevention of COVID-19 and rehabilitation of COVID-19 patients, and also addresses evidence gaps. Given the limited number and poor quality of available studies and potential concerns regarding the applicability of the current clinical evaluation standards to TCM, the effect of specific interventions on individual outcomes needs further evaluation.

Pueraria lobata Potentially Treating Prostate Cancer on Single-Cell Level by Network Pharmacology and AutoDock: Clinical Findings and Drug Targets

Background. Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the common malignant tumors of the urological system, and metastasis often occurs in advanced stages. Chemotherapy is an effective treatment for advanced PCa but has limitations in terms of efficacy, side effects, multidrug resistance, and high treatment costs. Therefore, new treatment modalities for PCa need to be explored and improved. Methods. R language and GEO database were used to obtain differentially expressed genes for PCa single-cell sequencing. TCMSP, STITCH, SwissTargetPrediction, and PubChem databases were used to obtain the active ingredients and targets of Pueraria lobata (PL). Next, Cytoscape software was used to draw the interactive network diagram of “drug–active component–target pathway.” Based on the STRING database, the protein–protein interaction network was constructed. Gene Ontology and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes were applied for the genes. Molecular docking was used to visualize the drug–target interaction via AutoDock Vina and PyMOL. Finally, prognosis-related genes were found by survival analysis, and Protein Atlas was used for validation. Results. Four active components and 31 target genes were obtained through the regulatory network of PL. Functional enrichment analysis showed that PL played a pharmacological role in the treatment of PCa by regulating the metabolic processes of reactive oxygen species, response to steroid hormones, and oxidative stress as well as IL-17 signaling pathway, PCa, and estrogen signaling pathway. Single-cell data showed that AR, MIF, HSP90B1, and MAOA genes were highly expressed, and molecular docking analysis showed that representative components had a strong affinity with receptor proteins. Survival analysis found that APOE, CA2, IGFBP3, MIF, F10, and NR3C1 could predict progression-free survival (PFS), and some of them could be validated in PCa. Conclusion. In this paper, a drug–active ingredient–target pathway network of PL at the single-cell level of PCa was constructed, and the findings revealed that it acted on genes such as AR, MIF, HSP90B1, and MAOA to regulate several biological processes and related signaling pathways to interfere with the occurrence and development of PCa. APOE, CA2, IGFBP3, MIF, F10, and NR3C1 were also important as target genes in predicting PFS.

Exploring the mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effect of the Radix Bupleuri-Rhizoma Cyperi herb pair on hepatocellular carcinoma using multilevel data integration and molecular docking

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is a promising and effective treatment for cancer with minimal side effects through a multi-active ingredient multitarget network. Radix Bupleuri and Rhizoma Cyperi are listed as herbs dispersing stagnated liver Qi in China. They have been used clinically to treat liver diseases for many years and recent pharmacological studies have shown that they inhibit the proliferation of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the pharmacological mechanisms, potential targets, and clinical value of the Radix Bupleuri-Rhizoma Cyperi herb pair (CXP) for suppressing HCC growth have not been fully elucidated. We identified 44 CXP targets involved in the treatment of HCC using the GEO dataset and HERB database. An analysis of the Traditional Chinese Medicine System Pharmacology Database (TCMSP) showed that CXP exerts synergistic effects through 4 active ingredients, including quercetin, stigmasterol, isorhamnetin, and kaempferol. GO and KEGG analyses revealed that CXP mainly regulates HCC progression through metabolic pathways, the p53 signaling pathway, and the cell cycle. Additionally, we applied The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA)-liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC) database to perform the expression patterns, clinical features, and prognosis of 6 genes (CCNB1, CDK1, CDK4, MYC, CDKN2A, and CHEK1) in cell cycle pathways to reveal that CXP suppresses HCC clinical therapeutic value. Moreover, based on molecular docking, we further verified that CXP exerts its anti-HCC activity through the interaction of multiple active components with cell cycle-related genes. We systematically revealed the potential pharmacological mechanisms and targets of CXP in HCC using multilevel data integration and molecular docking strategies.

Exosomes as Novel Delivery Systems for Application in Traditional Chinese Medicine

Exosomes, as gifts of nature derived from various cell types with a size range from ~40 to 160 nm in diameter, have gained attention recently. They are composed of a lipid membrane bilayer structure containing different constituents, such as surface ligands and receptors, from the parental cells. Originating from a variety of sources, exosomes have the ability to participate in a diverse range of biological processes, including the regulation of cellular communication. On account of their ideal native structure and characteristics, exosomes are taken into account as drug delivery systems (DDSs). They can provide profound effects on conveying therapeutic agents with great advantages, including specific targeting, high biocompatibility, and non-toxicity. Further, they can also be considered to ameliorate natural compounds, the main constituents of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), which are usually ignored due to the complexity of their structures, poor stability, and unclear mechanisms of action. This review summarizes the classification of exosomes as well as the research progress on exosome-based DDSs for the treatment of different diseases in TCM. Furthermore, this review discusses the advantages and challenges faced by exosomes to contribute to their further investigation and application.

Protective effect of traditional Chinese medicine on non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and liver cancer by targeting ferroptosis

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a chronic liver disease with high incidence and is closely related to metabolic syndrome. If not controlled, it may eventually become hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Ferroptosis, a non-apoptotic form of programmed cell death (PCD), is closely related to NAFLD and HCC, and the mechanisms of action involved are more complex. Some studies have demonstrated that many drugs inhibit ferroptosis and protect liver steatosis or carcinogenesis. The role of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), especially herbs or herbal extracts, has received increasing attention. However, there are relatively few review articles on the regulation of NAFLD by TCM through ferroptosis pathway. Here, we summarize the TCM intervention mechanism and application affecting NAFLD/NAFLD-HCC via regulation of ferroptosis. This article focuses on the relationship between ferroptosis and NAFLD or NAFLD-HCC and the protective effect of TCM on both by targeting ferroptosis. It not only summarizes the mechanism of early prevention and treatment of NAFLD, but also provides reference ideas for the development of TCM for the treatment of metabolic diseases and liver diseases.

Essential oil from the roots of Paeonia lactiflora pall. has protective effect against corticosterone-induced depression in mice via modulation of PI3K/Akt signaling pathway

For thousands of years, the roots of Paeonia lactiflora Pall (PLP) has been considered by traditional Chinese medicine as a drug that can improve mental or emotional disorders, including depression, anxiety and affective disorders. Unfortunately, the research on the mechanism of action and active ingredients of this beneficial drug is not comprehensive. This study focused on the activity of essential oil from PLP (EOP), systematically studied the antidepressant effect of EOP for the first time, and discussed the potential mechanism of its antidepressant effect. In this study, we used a mouse model of corticosterone (CORT)-induced depression, and found that EOP had a significant antidepressant effect on the symptoms of CORT-induced depression in mice, and significantly down-regulated the levels of CRH, ACTH and cortisol in the brain tissues of mice. In addition, we found that EOP treatment alleviated CORT-induced hippocampal neuron injury in mice In vitro experiments. It was also found that EOP could inhibit CORT-induced apoptosis and improve the proliferation ability and cell viability of PC12 cells. Further, with the help of network analysis, it was revealed that PI3K-Akt might be one of the main signaling pathways of EOP against CORT-induced hippocampal neuron apoptosis. In this study, we also found that EOP up-regulated the phosphorylation of PI3K and Akt in CORT-induced mouse hippocampal neurons and PC12 cells, and promoted the nuclear transcription of Nrf2 in CORT-induced PC12 cells. In conclusion, with the integrated approach, we demonstrated that EOP exerted anti-apoptotic effects on hippocampal neurons through PI3K/Akt/Nrf2 signaling pathway.

Marsdenia tenacissima (Roxb.) Moon injection exerts a potential anti-tumor effect in prostate cancer through inhibiting ErbB2-GSK3β-HIF1α signaling axis

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Marsdenia tenacissima injection (MTE), a traditional Chinese medical injection extracted from the rattan of Marsdenia tenacissima (Roxb.) Moon, has been approved for clinical use in China as an adjuvant therapeutic agent in multiple cancers, including esophageal cancer, gastric cancer, lung cancer, and liver cancer. However, the activity and mechanism of MTE on prostate cancer (PCa) remain to be defined.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To investigate the activity and the underlying mechanism of MTE in the treatment of PCa.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The component characterization of MTE was analyzed by HPLC-CAD-QTOF-MS/MS technology. Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay was used to assess PCa cell proliferation. Colony formation assay was applied to detect the clonogenic ability of the cells. MetaboAnalyst5.0 database was employed to analyze the altered metabolites of PC3 cells treated with MTE obtained by UPLC-QTOF-MS/MS. Combined with metabolomics analysis and network pharmacology, we predicted the potential targets, which further were verified by Western Blot, RT-qPCR, and Immunohistochemistry assays. Finally, SeeSAR software was applied to predict the potential active components of MTE against PCa.

RESULTS

A total of 21 components in MTE were confirmed by HPLC-CAD-QTOF-MS/MS analysis. MTE inhibited the proliferation and colony formation of PCa cells. A total of 20 metabolites closely related to glycerophospholipid metabolism, glycolysis/gluconeogenesis, and tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle were significantly changed in PC3 cells treated with MTE. The network pharmacology analysis revealed that MTE suppressed the growth of PC3 cells might by regulating the ErbB2-GSK3β-HIF1α signaling axis. Furthermore, we also confirmed that stimulation of MTE significantly inhibited the phosphorylation of ErbB2 at Tyr877 and the activities of its downstream signal transducers (GSK3β and HIF1α) in PCa, as well as the mRNA levels of critical factors (IDH2, LDHA, and HIF1A) in the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle. Molecular docking further suggested that Tenacissimoside E, cryptochlorogenic acid, and scopoletin might be the active ingredients of MTE for PCa treatment.

CONCLUSION

This study proposed that MTE exerts a potential anti-tumor effect in PCa through inhibiting ErbB2-GSK3β-HIF1α signaling axis, which may be related to the TCA cycle.

Determination of six core components from Mahuang Xuanfei Zhike syrup in rat plasma and tissues by UPLC-MS/MS: Application to the pharmacokinetics and tissue distribution study

Mahuang Xuanfei Zhike (MXZ) syrup, a Chinese patent medicine, has been widely used in clinical treatment of cough. However, there is no reported method for quantitative analysis of the effective components of MXZ syrup in biological samples. In this study, the effective components of MXZ syrup were screened by network pharmacology and molecular docking technology, a sensitive and rapid method of ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) method was established to test the active components of MXZ syrup in rat plasma and tissue homogenates, including ephedrine, amygdalin, chlorogenic acid, harpagoside, forsythin and forsythoside A. Chromatographic separation was performed on a Waters Acquity UPLC HSS T3 column (2.1 × 50 mm, 1.8 μm) and the mass analysis was conducted in a Waters Xevo TQ mass spectrometer using multiple reaction positive and negative ion simultaneous monitoring mode (MRM). The results expounded that the linearity ranged from 0.3 ng/mL to 409.4 ng/mL, The extraction recoveries were all less than 8.33%, and the matrix effects were all less than 8.45, which met the requirements. The pharmacokinetic and tissue distribution results indicated that the main active components of MXZ syrup were absorbed quickly and eliminated slowly in vivo, and there may be a reabsorption process.

Network Pharmacology Research and Dual-omic Analyses Reveal the Molecular Mechanism of Natural Product Nodosin Inhibiting Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer in Vitro and in Vivo

Bladder cancer, specifically, muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC), is among the most common malignant tumors. Patients with MIBC who cannot tolerate standard drugs require novel treatments. Targeting apoptosis may help treat cancer, which may be achieved with the use of some natural products. Nodosin, found in Isodon serra (Maxim.) Kudo (known as Xihuangcao), may inhibit bladder cancer cells. Transcriptomics and proteomics dual-omic analyses revealed the network pharmacological mechanism: (1) blocking the S phase by up-regulating RPA2, CLSPN, MDC1, PDCD2L, and E2F6 gene expressions, suppressing cancer cell proliferation; (2) inducing apoptosis and autophagy and restraining ferroptosis by up-regulating HMOX1, G0S2, SQSTM1, FTL, SLC7A11, and AIFM2 gene expressions; (3) preventing cancer cell migration by down-regulating NEXN, LIMA1, CFL2, PALLD, and ITGA3 gene expressions. In vivo, nodosin inhibited bladder cancer cell growth in a model of xenograft tumor in nude mice. This study is the first to report basic research findings on the network pharmacological mechanism of cytotoxicity of bladder cancer cells by nodosin, providing novel evidence for the application of nodosin in the field of oncology; however, other mechanisms may be involved in the effects of nodosin for further research. These findings provide a foundation for the development of novel MIBC drugs.

Mass spectrometry-based profiling and imaging strategy, a fit-for-purpose tool for unveiling the transformations of ginsenosides in Panax notoginseng during processing

BACKGROUND

Panax notoginseng, a valuable medicinal plant, is traditionally used to treat trauma, body pain, and cardiovascular diseases in two clinical forms including raw (crude) and processed form. Processing-triggered compound transformation is responsible for the distinct bioactivity between raw and processed Panax notoginseng. Nevertheless, investigating the chemical diversity and dynamic transformation pattern of processed Panax notoginseng is challenging.

METHODS

A new approach, which integrates multi-components characterization, processing trajectory depiction, discovery of differential markers, transformation mechanism of metabolites, in situ spatial distribution and transformation of metabolites, was established to elucidate the role of processing on the holistic chemical transformations of Panax notoginseng (PN).

RESULTS

In this study, 136 ginsenosides (mainly rare ginsenosides) were identified or tentatively characterized and the temperature-dependent chemical variation trajectory was depicted via principal component analysis (PCA). Nineteen processing-associated markers were confirmed by orthogonal partial least squares-discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA). For the first time, the transformation pathway of ginsenosides during processing were elucidated by integrating the precursor ion scan (PIS) and mimic processing strategy that involves with deglycosylation, dehydration, hydration, acetylation, and isomerization. Results of mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) revealed the major ginsenosides M-Rb1, R1, Rg1, Rb1, Rd, and Re exhibited distinct spatial distribution pattern that are highly abundant in the xylem and showed a downward trend during processing. We firstly depicted the spatial distribution of processing-triggered rare ginsenosides (Rg3, Rk1, Rg5, etc.), and in situ transformation of ginsenosides was discovered in the process of steaming. Additionally, this variation trend was consistent with untargeted metabolomics results.

CONCLUSION

This study comprehensively revealed chemical diversity and dynamic transformation pattern and depicted the spatial distribution of ginsenosides of PN during processing. It could provide a clue for the distinct bioactivities between raw and processed PN and elucidate the role of processing on the holistic chemical transformations of natural products, more importantly, the proposed strategy is valuable for the quality evaluation and control of the processing of natural product.

When Natural Compounds Meet Nanotechnology: Nature-Inspired Nanomedicines for Cancer Immunotherapy

Recent significant strides of natural compounds in immunomodulation have highlighted their great potential against cancer. Despite many attempts being made for cancer immunotherapy, the biomedical application of natural compounds encounters a bottleneck because of their unclear mechanisms, low solubility and bioavailability, and limited efficacy. Herein, we summarize the immune regulatory mechanisms of different natural compounds at each step of the cancer-immunity cycle and highlight their anti-tumor potential and current limitations. We then propose and present various drug delivery strategies based on nanotechnology, including traditional nanoparticles (NPs)-based delivery strategies (lipid-based NPs, micelles, and polysaccharide/peptide/protein-based NPs) and novel delivery strategies (cell-derived NPs and carrier-free NPs), thus providing solutions to break through existing bottlenecks. Furthermore, representative applications of nature-inspired nanomedicines are also emphasized in detail with the advantages and disadvantages discussed. Finally, the challenges and prospects of natural compounds for cancer immunotherapy are provided, hopefully, to facilitate their far-reaching development toward clinical translation.