Bioactivities, biosynthesis and biotechnological production of phenolic acids in Salvia miltiorrhiza

Effects of different drying methods on the chemical components and activities of Taihang chrysanthemum (Opisthopappus taihangensis)

Although the health benefits of chrysanthemums have been widely studied, there is a paucity of knowledge regarding Taihang chrysanthemum (Opisthopappus taihangensis). This study compared indoor shade drying, heat drying and freeze drying on the chemical profile and health-related activities of O. taihangensis. UPLC-Q-TOF-MS and other assays were used to evaluate changes in composition and antioxidant, antibacterial and enzyme inhibitory activities. Different drying methods significantly affected compositions and bioactivities of O. taihangensis. Lipids, phenylpropanoids and polyketides were the most abundant. Freeze-drying maintained bioactive compounbds like phenylpropanoids and superior antioxidant activities. Freeze-dried O. taihangensis also displayed robust antibacterial activity against Streptococcus hemolyticus-β and effective inhiition of pancreatic lipase. These results suggest O. taihangensis is a useful source of functional compounds.

Natural products targeting RAS by multiple mechanisms and its therapeutic potential in cancer: An update since 2020

RAS proteins, as pivotal signal transduction molecules, are frequently mutated and hyperactivated in various human cancers, closely associated with tumor cell proliferation, survival, and metastasis. Despite extensive research on RAS targeted therapies, developing effective RAS inhibitors remains a significant challenge. Natural products, endowed with unique chemical structures and diverse biological activities through long-term natural selection, have emerged as a vital resource for discovering novel RAS-targeted therapeutic drugs. This review focuses on the latest advancements in targeting RAS with natural products and categorizes these natural products based on their mechanisms of action. Additionally, we discuss the challenges faced by these natural products during clinical translation, including issues related to pharmacokinetics. Strategies such as combination therapy, structural optimization, and drug delivery systems are anticipated to enhance efficacy and overcome these challenges.

Abscisic acid enhances SmAPK1-mediated phosphorylation of SmbZIP4 to positively regulate tanshinone biosynthesis in Salvia miltiorrhiza

Tanshinones, isolated from Salvia miltiorrhiza, is efficient to treat cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Abscisic acid (ABA) treatment is found to promote tanshinone biosynthesis; however, the underlying mechanism has not been fully elucidated. A protein kinase namely SmAPK1 was identified as an important positive regulator of ABA-induced tanshinone accumulation in S. miltiorrhiza. Using SmAPK1 as bait, a basic region leucine zipper (bZIP) family transcription factor SmbZIP4 was screened from the cDNA library. Functional identification reveals that SmbZIP4 negatively regulates tanshinone biosynthesis in hairy roots and transgenic plants through directly targeting SmGGPPS and SmCYP76AK1. SmAPK1 phosphorylates the Ser97 and Thr99 site of SmbZIP4, leading to its degradation via the 26S proteasome pathway, which is promoted by ABA-induced enhancement of SmAPK1 kinase activity. Degradation of SmbZIP4 upregulates the expression levels of SmGGPPS and SmCYP76AK1, resulting in increased tanshinone content. Taken together, our results reveal new molecular mechanism by which SmAPK1-SmbZIP4 module plays a crucial role in ABA-induced tanshinone accumulation. This study sheds new insights in the biosynthesis of bioactive compounds in medicinal plants.

Screening of native wild Salvia nemorosa populations for chemical compositions, antioxidant activity and UHPLC-HRMS profiling

In this study, screening of the collected 70 Salvia nemorosa L. populations from 54 habitats from West Azerbaijan province, Iran was evaluated by analyzing the content of phytochemical compounds, antioxidant activity, and UHPLC-HRMS profiling in different populations. The aerial parts of the plants were analyzed based on total phenolic (TPC) and flavonoid (TFC), total tannin (TTC), ascorbic acid (AAC), chlorophylls (Cla, and Clb), total carotenoid (TCC), β-carotene, antioxidant activity (by DPPH and FRAP assays), and 40 polyphenolic compounds by UHPLC-HRMS (phenolic acids, flavonoids and fatty acyl glicosides). Significant variations in phytochemical compositions and antioxidant activity were observed among S. nemorosa samples from different habitats. Rosmarinic acid, sagerinic acid, and caffeoylquinic acids (notable polyphenolic compounds with significant pharmacological properties, particularly in the context of their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and enzyme inhibitory activities) were identified as the major compounds in S. nemorosa populations. According to hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) three groups of species were identified based on phytochemical compounds and antioxidant activity. Data analysis indicated that the quality and quantity of the chemical compounds, as well as their antioxidant functions, varied depending on habitat diversity. Overall, the results showed that each population exhibited a unique class of polyphenols, highlighting diverse potential applications across various industries. These findings suggest that the S. nemorosa populations studied here have significant potential for the development of innovative nutraceuticals, addressing the current scarcity of S. nemorosa-derived products in the market.

Targeting ferroptosis: a novel therapeutic strategy for the treatment of retinal diseases

Ferroptosis plays a vital role in the progression of various retinal diseases. The analysis of the mechanism of retinal cell ferroptosis has brought new targeted strategies for treating retinal vascular diseases, retinal degeneration and retinal nerve diseases, and is also a major scientific issue in the field of ferroptosis. In this review, we summarized results from currently available in vivo and in vitro studies of multiple eye disease models, clarified the pathological role and molecular mechanism of ferroptosis in retinal diseases, summed up the existing pharmacological agents targeting ferroptosis in retinal diseases as well as highlighting where future research efforts should be directed for the application of ferroptosis targeting agents. This review indicates that ferroptosis of retinal cells is involved in the progression of age-related/inherited macular degeneration, blue light-induced retinal degeneration, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and retinal damage caused by retinal ischemia-reperfusion via multiple molecular mechanisms. Nearly 20 agents or extracts, including iron chelators and transporters, antioxidants, pharmacodynamic elements from traditional Chinese medicine, ferroptosis-related protein inhibitors, and neuroprotective agents, have a remissioning effect on retinal disease in animal models via ferroptosis inhibition. However, just a limited number of agents have received approval or are undergoing clinical trials for conditions such as iron overload-related diseases. The application of most ferroptosis-targeting agents in retinal diseases is still in the preclinical stage, and there are no clinical trials yet. Future research should focus on the development of more potent ferroptosis inhibitors, improved drug properties, and ideally clinical testing related to retinal diseases.

Salvianolic acid B improves mitochondrial dysfunction of septic cardiomyopathy via enhancing ATF5-mediated mitochondrial unfolded protein response

AIMS

Septic cardiomyopathy is characterized by impaired contractile function and mitochondrial activity dysregulation. Salvianolic acid B (Sal B) is a potent therapeutic compound derived from the traditional Chinese medicine Salvia miltiorrhiza. This study explored the protective effects of Sal B on septic heart injury, emphasizing the mitochondrial unfolded protein response (UPRmt).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

An in vivo mouse model of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced heart injury was utilized to assess Sal B's protective role in septic cardiomyopathy. Additionally, cell models stimulated by LPS were developed to investigate the mechanisms of Sal B on UPRmt. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction, western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence were employed for molecular analysis.

RESULTS

Sal B, administered at doses of 10, 30, and 60 mg/kg, demonstrated protective effects on cardiac contractile function, reduced heart inflammation, and mitigated cardiac injury in LPS-exposed mice. In cardiomyocytes, LPS induced apoptosis, elevated mitochondrial ROS levels, promoted mitochondrial fission, and decreased mitochondrial membrane potential, all of which were alleviated by Sal B. Mechanistically, Sal B was found to induce UPRmt both in vivo and in vitro. ATF5, identified as a UPRmt activator, was modulated by LPS and Sal B, resulting in increased ATF5 expression and its translocation from the cytosol to the nucleus. ATF5-siRNA delivery reversed UPRmt upregulation, exacerbating mitochondrial dysfunction in LPS-stimulated cardiomyocytes and counteracting the mitochondrial function enhancement in Sal B-treated cardiomyocytes.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides evidence that Sal B confers cardiac protection by enhancing UPRmt, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic approach for mitigating mitochondrial dysfunction in septic cardiomyopathy.

UHPLC-QTOF-MS-Based Targeted Metabolomics Provides Novel Insights into the Accumulative Mechanism of Soil Types on the Bioactive Components of Salvia miltiorrhiza

The root of Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge (SMB) has been widely used to treat cardiovascular diseases. However, the contents of secondary metabolites in the roots from different production areas are significantly different, and the impact of soil factors on this accumulation remains unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to elucidate the regularity of variation between the active components and soil factors through targeted metabolomics and chemical dosimetry. Soils were collected from five different cities (A, B, C, D, and E) and transplanted into the study area. The results showed that there were significant differences in the soil fertility characteristics and heavy metal pollution levels in different soils. Ten water- and twelve lipid-soluble metabolites were identified in SMBs grown in all soil types. SMBs from D cities exhibited the highest total tanshinone content (p < 0.05). The salvianolic acid B content in SMBs from E cities was the highest (p < 0.05). Interestingly, correlation analysis revealed a significant negative correlation between the accumulation of lipid-soluble and water-soluble metabolites. Double-matrix correlation analysis demonstrated that available potassium (AK) was significantly negatively correlated with salvianolic acid B (r = -0.80, p = 0.0004) and positively correlated with tanshinone IIA (r = 0.66, p = 0.008). Conversely, cadmium (Cd) and cuprum (Cu) were significantly positively and negatively correlated with salvianolic acid B (r = 0.96, p < 0.0001 and r = 0.72, p = 0.0024) and tanshinone IIA (r = 0.40, p = 0.14 and r = 0.73, p = 0.0018), respectively. Mantel's test indicated that AK (r > 0.52, p < 0.001), Cu (r > 0.60, p < 0.005), and Cd (r > 0.31, p < 0.05) were the primary drivers of the differences in the active components of SMBs. These findings provide a theoretical framework for modulating targeted metabolites of SMB through soil factors, with significant implications for the cultivation and quality control of medicinal plants.

Combined Metabolomics and Network Pharmacology Analysis Reveal the Effect of Rootstocks on Anthocyanins, Lipids, and Potential Pharmacological Ingredients of Tarroco Blood Orange (Citrus sinensis L. Osbeck)

The benefits of citrus fruits are strongly associated with their secondary metabolites. In this study, we conducted widely targeted metabolomics analyses to compare the variability of the ingredients in four scion-rootstock combinations. A total of 376 differential metabolites were obtained by a multivariate statistical analysis, and a KEGG pathway analysis showed that the enriched metabolic pathways were mainly related to the biosynthesis of flavonoids as well as lipid metabolism. The anthocyanin-targeted metabolomic features showed that cyanidin 3-O-glucoside, cyanidin 3-O-(6-O-malonyl-beta-D-glucoside), cyanidin 3-O-sophoroside, and cyanidin 3-O-xyloside were the pigments responsible for the red color of Tarocco. A lipid metabolomics analysis revealed that when Tarocco was hetero-grafted with rootstock H, there was an increase in the content of each lipid subclass, accompanied by an increase in the levels of unsaturated fatty acids, including polyunsaturated linoleic and linolenic acids, thus impacting the ratio of unsaturated fatty acids to saturated fatty acids. Additionally, we determined their antioxidant capacity ('Trifoliate orange' (Z) > 'Citrange' (ZC) > 'Hongju' (H) > 'Ziyang Xiangcheng' (X)) using in vitro assays. Finally, we utilized a network pharmacology analysis to explore the antioxidant mechanisms and potential pharmacological ingredients; we obtained 26 core targets proteins and 42 core metabolites associated with oxidative damage, providing a basis for future preventive and therapeutic applications of these metabolites.

Content Determination and Chemical Clustering Analysis of Tanshinone and Salvianolic Acid in Salvia spp

Salvia miltiorrhiza is one of the famous traditional Chinese medicines for treating cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Tanshinone and phenolic acids are the main active compounds of Salvia miltiorrhiza, whereas the distribution patterns of the two kinds of components are still unclear among Salvia spp. In this work, high-performance liquid chromatography was applied to analyze the distribution patterns of major components in the roots and leaves of 58 Salvia spp. The results showed that the distribution patterns of tanshinone and phenolic acids in Salvia spp. varied significantly. Phenolic acid components such as rosmarinus acid, caffeic acid, and danshensu are widely distributed in the roots and leaves, and phenolic acids in the leaves of Salvia spp. are generally higher than that in roots. Tanshinones are mainly detected in the roots of Salvia przewalskii, Salvia trijuga, Salvia castanea, and Salvia yunnanensis. The content of major components of the different species varied significantly. The content of phenolic acids in most Salvia spp. generally followed the pattern of salvianolic acid B > rosmarinic acid > danshensu > caffeic acid both in the roots and leaves. Tanshinone IIA and cryptotanshinone were the main lipophilic components of Salvia spp. distributed in southwest China. A correlation between the distribution pattern of tanshinone and the genetic relationship of species was indicated in the work. This research systematically reveals the distribution patterns of tanshinone and phenolic acids in Salvia spp., providing a theoretical basis for the development and utilization of medicinal resources of Salvia.

Integrated metabolomic and transcriptomic analysis reveals biosynthesis mechanism of flavone and caffeoylquinic acid in chrysanthemum

BACKGROUND

Chrysanthemum morifolium 'HangBaiJu', a popular medicinal and edible plant, exerts its biological activities primarily through the presence of flavones and caffeoylquinic acids (CQAs). However, the regulatory mechanism of flavone and CQA biosynthesis in the chrysanthemum capitulum remains unclear.

RESULTS

In this study, the content of flavones and CQAs during the development of chrysanthemum capitulum was determined by HPLC, revealing an accumulation pattern with higher levels at S1 and S2 and a gradual decrease at S3 to S5. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that CmPAL1/2, CmCHS1/2, CmFNS, CmHQT, and CmHCT were key structural genes in flavones and CQAs biosynthesis. Furthermore, weighted gene co-expression correlation network analysis (WGCNA), k-means clustering, correlation analysis and protein interaction prediction were carried out in this study to identify transcription factors (TFs) associated with flavone and CQA biosynthesis, including MYB, bHLH, AP2/ERF, and MADS-box families. The TFs CmERF/PTI6 and CmCMD77 were proposed to act as upstream regulators of CmMYB3 and CmbHLH143, while CmMYB3 and CmbHLH143 might form a complex to directly regulate the structural genes CmPAL1/2, CmCHS1/2, CmFNS, CmHQT, and CmHCT, thereby controlling flavone and CQA biosynthesis.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, these findings provide initial insights into the TF regulatory network underlying flavones and CQAs accumulation in the chrysanthemum capitulum, which laid a theoretical foundation for the quality improvement of C. morifolium 'HangBaiJu' and the high-quality development of the industry.

Biosynthesis and signal transduction of plant growth regulators and their effects on bioactive compound production in Salvia miltiorrhiza (Danshen)

Plant growth regulators (PGRs) are involved in multiple aspects of plant life, including plant growth, development, and response to environmental stimuli. They are also vital for the formation of secondary metabolites in various plants. Salvia miltiorrhiza is a famous herbal medicine and has been used commonly for > 2000 years in China, as well as widely used in many other countries. S. miltiorrhiza is extensively used to treat cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases in clinical practices and has specific merit against various diseases. Owing to its outstanding medicinal and commercial potential, S. miltiorrhiza has been extensively investigated as an ideal model system for medicinal plant biology. Tanshinones and phenolic acids are primary pharmacological constituents of S. miltiorrhiza. As the growing market for S. miltiorrhiza, the enhancement of its bioactive compounds has become a research hotspot. S. miltiorrhiza exhibits a significant response to various PGRs in the production of phenolic acids and tanshinones. Here, we briefly review the biosynthesis and signal transduction of PGRs in plants. The effects and mechanisms of PGRs on bioactive compound production in S. miltiorrhiza are systematically summarized and future research is discussed. This article provides a scientific basis for further research, cultivation, and metabolic engineering in S. miltiorrhiza.

Xiaozhi formula attenuates non-alcoholic fatty liver disease by regulating lipid metabolism via activation of AMPK and PPAR pathways

BACKGROUND

Xiaozhi formula (XZF) is a practical Chinese herbal formula for the treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which possesses an authorized patent certificate issued by the State Intellectual Property Office of China (ZL202211392355.0). However, the underlying mechanism by which XZF treats NAFLD remains unclear.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to explore the main component of XZF and its mechanism of action in NAFLD treatment.

METHODS

UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS was used to identify the components of the XZF. A high-fat diet (HFD)-induced NAFLD mouse model was used to demonstrate the effectiveness of XZF. Body weight, liver weight, and white fat weight were recorded to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of XZF. H&E and Oil Red O staining were applied to observe the extent of hepatic steatosis. Liver damage, lipid metabolism, and glucose metabolism were detected by relevant assay kits. Moreover, the intraperitoneal insulin tolerance test and the intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test were employed to evaluate the efficacy of XZF in insulin homeostasis. Hepatocyte oxidative damage markers were detected to assess the efficacy of XZF in preventing oxidative stress. Label-free proteomics was used to investigate the underlying mechanism of XZF in NAFLD. RT-qPCR was used to calculate the expression levels of lipid metabolism genes. Western blot analysis was applied to detect the hepatic protein expression of AMPK, p-AMPK, PPARɑ, CPT1, and PPARγ.

RESULTS

120 compounds were preliminarily identified from XZF by UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS. XZF could alleviate HFD-induced obesity, white adipocyte size, lipid accumulation, and hepatic steatosis in mice. Additionally, XZF could normalize glucose levels, improve glucolipid metabolism disorders, and prevent oxidative stress damage induced by HFD. Furthermore, the proteomic analysis showed that the major pathways in fatty acid metabolism and the PPAR signaling pathway were significantly impacted by XZF treatment. The expression levels of several lipolytic and β-oxidation genes were up-regulated, while the expression of fatty acid synthesis genes declined in the HFD + XZF group. Mechanically, XZF treatment enhanced the expression of p-AMPK, PPARɑ, and CPT-1 and suppressed the expression of PPARγ in the livers of NAFLD mice, indicating that XZF could activate the AMPK and PPAR pathways to attenuate NALFD progression.

CONCLUSION

XZF could attenuate NAFLD by moderating lipid metabolism by activating AMPK and PPAR signaling pathways.

Salvianolic acid extract prevents Tripterygium wilfordii polyglycosides-induced acute liver injury by modulating bile acid metabolism

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Tripterygium wilfordii polyglycosides (TWP) tablet is the most widely used traditional Chinese medicine preparation for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), but the hepatotoxicity often limits its widespread application. In traditional use, Salvia miltiorrhiza has cardioprotective and hepatoprotective effects. Salvianolic acid extract (SA) is a hydrophilic component of Salvia miltiorrhiza and has significant antioxidant and hepatoprotective effects.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To investigate the protective effects of SA on the TWP-induced acute liver injury in rats and to explore the related mechanisms by integration of metabolomics and transcriptomics.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

SA and TWP extracts were identified by UPLC-Q/TOF-MS. SA (200 mg/kg) was administered for consecutive 7 days. On day 7, TWP (360 mg/kg) was administered by gavage to induce the acute liver injury in rats. Serum biochemical assay and H&E staining were used to evaluate liver damage. Liver metabolomics and transcriptomics were used to explore the potential mechanisms, and further molecular biological experiments such as qPCR and IHC were utilized to validate the relevant signaling pathways.

RESULTS

SA can prevent liver injury symptoms caused by TWP, such as elevated liver index, elevated ALT and AST, and pathological changes in liver tissue. Liver metabolomics studies showed that TWP can significantly alter the content of individual bile acid in the liver and SA had the most significant impact on the biosynthetic pathway of bile acids. The transcriptomics results of the liver indicated that the genes changed in the SA + TWP group were mainly involved in sterol metabolism, lipid regulation and bile acid homeostasis pathways. The gene expression of Nr1h4, which encodes farnesoid X receptor (FXR), an important regulator of bile acid homeostasis, was significantly changed. Further studies confirmed that SA can prevent the downregulation of FXR and its downstream signaling induced by TWP, thereby regulating bile acid metabolism, ultimately preventing acute liver injury caused by TWP.

CONCLUSION

Our results demonstrated that SA could protect the liver from TWP-induced hepatic injury by modulation of the bile acid metabolic pathway. SA may provide a new strategy for the protection against TWP-induced acute liver injury.

LC/MS-Based Metabolomics Reveals Chemical Variations of Two Broccoli Varieties in Relation to Their Anticholinesterase Activity: In vitro and In silico Studies

Broccoli is commonly consumed as food and as medicine. However, comprehensive metabolic profiling of two broccoli varieties, Romanesco broccoli (RB) and purple broccoli (PB), in relation to their anticholinergic activity has not been fully disclosed. A total of 110 compounds were tentatively identified using UPLC-Q-TOF-MS metabolomics. Distinctively different metabolomic profiles of the two varieties were revealed by principal component analysis (PCA). Furthermore, by volcano diagram analysis, it was found that PB had a significantly higher content of phenolic acids, flavonoids, and glucosinolates, indicating the different beneficial health potentials of PB that demonstrated higher antioxidant and anticholinergic activities. Moreover, Pearson's correlation analysis revealed 18 metabolites, mainly phenolic and sulfur compounds, as the main bioactive. The binding affinity of these biomarkers to the active sites of acetyl- and butyryl-cholinesterase enzymes was further validated using molecular docking studies. Results emphasize the broccoli significance as a functional food and nutraceutical source and highlight its beneficial effects against Alzheimer's disease.

A comprehensive review of natural product-derived compounds acting on P2X7R: The promising therapeutic drugs in disorders

BACKGROUND

The P2X7 receptor (P2X7R) is known to play a significant role in regulating various pathological processes associated with immune regulation, neuroprotection, and inflammatory responses. It has emerged as a potential target for the treatment of diseases. In addition to chemically synthesized small molecule compounds, natural products have gained attention as an important source for discovering compounds that act on the P2X7R.

PURPOSE

To explore the research progress made in the field of natural product-derived compounds that act on the P2X7R.

METHODS

The methods employed in this review involved conducting a thorough search of databases, include PubMed, Web of Science and WIKTROP, to identify studies on natural product-derived compounds that interact with P2X7R. The selected studies were then analyzed to categorize the compounds based on their action on the receptor and to evaluate their therapeutic applications, chemical properties, and pharmacological actions.

RESULTS

The natural product-derived compounds acting on P2X7R can be classified into three categories: P2X7R antagonists, compounds inhibiting P2X7R expression, and compounds regulating the signaling pathway associated with P2X7R. Moreover, highlight the therapeutic applications, chemical properties and pharmacological actions of these compounds, and indicate areas that require further in-depth study. Finally, discuss the challenges of the natural products-derived compounds exploration, although utilizing compounds from natural products for new drug research offers unique advantages, problems related to solubility, content, and extraction processes still exist.

CONCLUSION

The detailed information in this review will facilitate further development of P2X7R antagonists and potential therapeutic strategies for P2X7R-associated disorders.

Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge (Danshen) based nano-delivery systems for anticancer therapeutics

BACKGROUND

The ancient Chinese herb Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge (Danshen), plays the important role in cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease. Furthermore, Danshen could also be used for curing carcinogenesis. Up to now, the anti-tumor effects of the main active constituents of Danshen have made great progress. However, the bioavailability of the active constituents of Danshen were restricted by their unique physical characteristics, like low oral bioavailability, rapid degradation in vivo and so on.

PURPOSE

With the leap development of nano-delivery systems, the shortcomings of the active constituents of Danshen have been greatly ameliorated. This review tried to summarize the recent progress of the active constituents of Danshen based delivery systems used for anti-tumor therapeutics.

METHODS

A systematic literature search was conducted using 5 databases (Embase, Google scholar, PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science databases) for the identification of relevant data published before September 2023. The words "Danshen", "Salvia miltiorrhiza", "Tanshinone", "Salvianolic acid", "Rosmarinic acid", "tumor", "delivery", "nanomedicine" and other active ingredients contained in Danshen were searched in the above databases to gather information about pharmaceutical decoration for the active constituents of Danshen used for anti-tumor therapeutics.

RESULTS

The main extracts of Danshen could inhibit the proliferation of tumor cells effectively and a great deal of studies were conducted to design drug delivery systems to ameliorate the anti-tumor effect of the active contents of Danshen through different ways, like improving bioavailability, increasing tumor targeting ability, enhancing biological barrier permeability and co-delivering with other active agents.

CONCLUSION

This review systematically represented recent progress of pharmaceutical decorations for the active constituents of Danshen used for anti-tumor therapeutics, revealing the diversity of nano-decoration skills and trying to inspire more designs of Danshen based nanodelivery systems, with the hope that bringing the nanomedicine of the active constituents of Danshen for anti-tumor therapeutics from bench to bedside in the near future.

Plant hormones and phenolic acids response to UV-B stress in Rhododendron chrysanthum pall

Our study aims to identify the mechanisms involved in regulating the response of Rhodoendron Chrysanthum Pall. (R. chrysanthum) leaves to UV-B exposure; phosphorylated proteomics and metabolomics for phenolic acids and plant hormones were integrated in this study. The results showed that UV-B stress resulted in the accumulation of salicylic acid and the decrease of auxin, jasmonic acid, abscisic acid, cytokinin and gibberellin in R. chrysanthum. The phosphorylated proteins that changed in plant hormone signal transduction pathway and phenolic acid biosynthesis pathway were screened by comprehensive metabonomics and phosphorylated proteomics. In order to construct the regulatory network of R. chrysanthum leaves under UV-B stress, the relationship between plant hormones and phenolic acid compounds was analyzed. It provides a rationale for elucidating the molecular mechanisms of radiation tolerance in plants.

Unveiling the emerging role of curcumin to alleviate ochratoxin A-induced muscle toxicity in grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella): in vitro and in vivo studies

BACKGROUND

Ochratoxin A (OTA), a globally abundant and extremely hazardous pollutant, is a significant source of contamination in aquafeeds and is responsible for severe food pollution. The developmental toxicity of OTA and the potential relieving strategy of natural products remain unclear. This study screened the substance curcumin (Cur), which had the best effect in alleviating OTA inhibition of myoblast proliferation, from 96 natural products and investigated its effect and mechanism in reducing OTA myotoxicity in vivo and in vitro.

METHODS

A total of 720 healthy juvenile grass carp, with an initial average body weight of 11.06 ± 0.05 g, were randomly assigned into 4 groups: the control group (without OTA and Cur), 1.2 mg/kg OTA group, 400 mg/kg Cur group, and 1.2 mg/kg OTA + 400 mg/kg Cur group. Each treatment consisted of 3 replicates (180 fish) for 60 d.

RESULTS

Firstly, we cultured, purified, and identified myoblasts using the tissue block culture method. Through preliminary screening and re-screening of 96 substances, we examined cell proliferation-related indicators such as cell viability and ultimately found that Cur had the best effect. Secondly, Cur could alleviate OTA-inhibited myoblast differentiation and myofibrillar development-related proteins (MyoG and MYHC) in vivo and in vitro and improve the growth performance of grass carp. Then, Cur could also promote the expression of OTA-inhibited protein synthesis-related proteins (S6K1 and TOR), which was related to the activation of the AKT/TOR signaling pathway. Finally, Cur could downregulate the expression of OTA-enhanced protein degradation-related genes (murf1, foxo3a, and ub), which was related to the inhibition of the FoxO3a signaling pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, our data demonstrated the effectiveness of Cur in alleviating OTA myotoxicity in vivo and in vitro. This study confirms the rapidity, feasibility, and effectiveness of establishing a natural product screening method targeting myoblasts to alleviate fungal toxin toxicity.

Genome-Wide Identification and Characterization of the PHT1 Gene Family and Its Response to Mycorrhizal Symbiosis in Salvia miltiorrhiza under Phosphate Stress

Phosphorus (P) is a vital nutrient element that is essential for plant growth and development, and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) can significantly enhance P absorption. The phosphate transporter protein 1 (PHT1) family mediates the uptake of P in plants. However, the PHT1 gene has not yet been characterized in Salvia miltiorrhiza. In this study, to gain insight into the functional divergence of PHT1 genes, nine SmPHT1 genes were identified in the S. miltiorrhiza genome database via bioinformatics tools. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the PHT1 proteins of S. miltiorrhiza, Arabidopsis thaliana, and Oryza sativa could be divided into three groups. PHT1 in the same clade has a similar gene structure and motif, suggesting that the features of each clade are relatively conserved. Further tissue expression analysis revealed that SmPHT1 was expressed mainly in the roots and stems. In addition, phenotypic changes, P content, and PHT1 gene expression were analyzed in S. miltiorrhiza plants inoculated with AMF under different P conditions (0 mM, 0.1 mM, and 10 mM). P stress and AMF significantly affected the growth and P accumulation of S. miltiorrhiza. SmPHT1;6 was strongly expressed in the roots colonized by AMF, implying that SmPHT1;6 was a specific AMF-inducible PHT1. Taken together, these results provide new insights into the functional divergence and genetic redundancy of the PHT1 genes in response to P stress and AMF symbiosis in S. miltiorrhiza.

Functional characterization of terpene synthases SmTPS1 involved in floral scent formation in Salvia miltiorrhiza

Plants attract beneficial insects and promote pollination by releasing floral scents. Salvia miltiorrhiza, as an insect-pollinated flowering plant, which has been less studied for its floral aroma substances. This study revealed that S. miltiorrhiza flowers produce various volatile terpenoids, including five monoterpenes and ten sesquiterpenes, with the sesquiterpene compound (E)-β-caryophyllene being the most abundant, accounting for 28.1% of the total volatile terpenoids. Y-tube olfactometer experiments were conducted on the primary pollinator of S. miltiorrhiza, the Apis ceranas. The results indicated that (E)-β-caryophyllene compound had an attractive effect on the Apis ceranas. By comparing the homologous sequences with the genes of (E)-β-caryophyllene terpene synthases in other plants, the SmTPS1 gene was selected for further experiment. Subcellular localization experiments showed SmTPS1 localized in the cytoplasm, and its in vitro enzyme assay revealed that it could catalyze FPP into β-Elemene, (E)-β-caryophyllene and α-Humulene. Overexpression of SmTPS1 in S. miltiorrhiza resulted in a 5.29-fold increase in gene expression. The GC-MS analysis revealed a significant increase in the concentration of (E)-β-caryophyllene in the transgenic plants, with levels 2.47-fold higher compared to the empty vector plants. Furthermore, Y-tube olfactometer experiments showed that the transgenic plants were significantly more attractive to Apis ceranas compared to the empty vector plants. Co-expression analysis suggested that four SmMYCs (SmMYC1, SmMYC5, SmMYC10, and SmMYC11) may be involved in the transcriptional regulation of SmTPS1. The yeast one-hybrid screen and the Dual luciferase assay indicated that SmMYC10 positively regulates the expression of SmTPS1. In conclusion, this study lays a foundation for the functional analysis and transcriptional regulation of terpene synthase genes in S. miltiorrhiza.

Identifying chemical markers in wine-processed Salvia miltiorrhiza using ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole-time-of-flight-tandem mass spectrometry

To find the chemical markers of wine-processed Salvia miltiorrhiza (WSM), 76 constituents, including diterpenoid quinones and phenolic acids in Salvia miltiorrhiza (SM) and WSM, were profiled using ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole-time-of-flight-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS) in positive- and the negative-ion modes. Thirty compounds were screened out as candidate differential components using chemometrics analysis, and the concentration of most compounds increased after processing with wine. Seven compounds, namely tanshinone IIA, magnesium lithospermate B, salvianolic acid G, cryptotanshinone, isocryptotanshinone, salvianolic acid B, and rosmarinic acid, were selected as chemical markers of WSM using variable importance of the project. This study revealed the chemical markers of WSM and confirmed that WSM can improve the extraction and solubility effect of chemical constituents.

Salvia miltiorrhiza polysaccharide mitigates AFB1-induced liver injury in rabbits

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is one of the common dietary contaminants worldwide, which can harm the liver of humans and animals. Salvia miltiorrhiza polysaccharide (SMP) is a natural plant-derived polysaccharide with numerous pharmacological activities, including hepatoprotective properties. The purpose of this study is to explore the intervention effect of SMP on AFB1-induced liver injury and its underlying mechanisms in rabbits. The rabbits were administered AFB1 (25 μg/kg/feed) and or treatment with SMP (300, 600, 900 mg/kg/feed) for 42 days. The results showed that SMP effectively alleviated the negative impact of AFB1 on rabbits' productivity by increasing average daily weight gain (ADG) and feed conversion rate (FCR). SMP reduced aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels in serum, ameliorating AFB1-induced hepatic pathological changes. Additionally, SMP enhanced superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione (GSH) activity, and inhibited reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA), 4-Hydroxynonenal (4-HNE), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) expression, thus mitigating AFB1-induced oxidative stress and inflammatory responses. Moreover, SMP upregulated the expression of nuclear factor E2 related factor 2 (Nrf2), heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1), NADPH quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1) and B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl2) while downregulating kelch like ECH associated protein 1 (Keap1), cytochrome c (cyt.c), caspase9, caspase3, and Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax) expression, thereby inhibiting AFB1-induced hepatocyte apoptosis. Consequently, our findings conclude that SMP can mitigate AFB1-induced liver damage by activating the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway and inhibiting mitochondria-dependent apoptotic pathway in rabbits.

SmEIL1 transcription factor inhibits tanshinone accumulation in response to ethylene signaling in Salvia miltiorrhiza

Among the bioactive compounds, lipid-soluble tanshinone is present in Salvia miltiorrhiza, a medicinal plant species. While it is known that ethephon has the ability to inhibit the tanshinones biosynthesis in the S. miltiorrhiza hairy root, however the underlying regulatory mechanism remains obscure. In this study, using the transcriptome dataset of the S. miltiorrhiza hairy root induced by ethephon, an ethylene-responsive transcriptional factor EIN3-like 1 (SmEIL1) was identified. The SmEIL1 protein was found to be localized in the nuclei, and confirmed by the transient transformation observed in tobacco leaves. The overexpression of SmEIL1 was able to inhibit the tanshinones accumulation to a large degree, as well as down-regulate tanshinones biosynthetic genes including SmGGPPS1, SmHMGR1, SmHMGS1, SmCPS1, SmKSL1 and SmCYP76AH1. These are well recognized participants in the tanshinones biosynthesis pathway. Further investigation on the SmEIL1 was observed to inhibit the transcription of the CPS1 gene by the Dual-Luciferase (Dual-LUC) and yeast one-hybrid (Y1H) assays. The data in this work will be of value regarding the involvement of EILs in regulating the biosynthesis of tanshinones and lay the foundation for the metabolic engineering of bioactive ingredients in S. miltiorrhiza.

Efficacy of a mixed extract of Salvia miltiorrhiza and Paeonia lactiflora in inhibiting the aging of vascular wall through in vitro and in vivo experiments

Vascular wall aging has been strongly associated with cardiovascular diseases. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the efficacy of USCP-GVH-014, a mixed extract of Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge and Paeonia lactiflora Pall., in inhibiting vascular wall aging through in vitro and in vivo experiments. The results revealed that USCP-GVH-014 inhibited abnormal cell proliferation, collagen overproduction, and MMP-2 and MMP-9 overexpression caused by various stimuli and recovered the antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase on human aortic smooth muscle cells. In addition, it inhibited the increase in ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 expression induced by tumor necrosis factor alpha on human aortic endothelial cells and prevented the aging of the vascular wall by regulating related proteins such as epidermal growth factor and interleukin-1ß. Furthermore, it reduced vascular aging in in vivo studies. These results demonstrate that USCP-GVH-014 effectively reduces vascular aging, thereby rendering it a potential therapeutic candidate for cardiovascular diseases.

Endophytic fungus Penicillium steckii DF33 promoted tanshinones biosynthesis in Salvia miltiorrhiza by regulating the expression of CYP450 genes

Salvia miltiorrhiza, a prominent traditional Chinese medicinal resource, has been extensively employed in the management of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular ailments. Ensuring the consistency of S. miltiorrhiza raw materials revolves around the imperative task of maintaining stable tanshinones content and composition. An effective approach in this regard involves the utilization of endophytic fungi as inducers. Within this context, our study spotlights an endophytic fungus, Penicillium steckii DF33, isolated from the roots of S. miltiorrhiza. Remarkably, this fungus has demonstrated a significant capacity to boost the biosynthesis and accumulation of tanshinones. The primary objective of this investigation is to elucidate the underlying regulatory mechanism by which DF33 enhances and regulates the biosynthesis and accumulation of tanshinones. This is achieved through its influence on the differential expression of crucial CYP450 genes within the S. miltiorrhiza hairy roots system. The results revealed that the DF33 elicitor not only promotes the growth of hairy roots but also enhances the accumulation of tanshinones. Notably, the content of cryptotanshinone was reached 1.6452 ± 0.0925 mg g-1, a fourfold increase compared to the control group. Our qRT-PCR results further demonstrate that the DF33 elicitor significantly up-regulates the expression of most key enzyme genes (GGPPS, CPS1, KSL1, CYP76AH1, CYP76AH3, CYP76AK1, CYP71D411) involved in the tanshinone biosynthesis pathway. This effect is particularly pronounced in certain critical CYP450 genes and Tanshinone ⅡA synthase (SmTⅡAS), with their expression levels peaking at 7 days or 14 days, respectively. In summary, endophytic P. steckii DF33 primarily enhances tanshinone biosynthesis by elevating the expression levels of pivotal enzyme genes associated with the modification and transformation stages within the tanshinone biosynthesis pathway. These findings underscore the potential of employing plant probiotics, specifically endophytic and root-associated microbes, to facilitate the biosynthesis and transformation of vital constituents in medicinal plants, and this approach holds promise for enhancing the quality of traditional Chinese medicinal materials.

Nanopore analysis of salvianolic acids in herbal medicines

Natural herbs, which contain pharmacologically active compounds, have been used historically as medicines. Conventionally, the analysis of chemical components in herbal medicines requires time-consuming sample separation and state-of-the-art analytical instruments. Nanopore, a versatile single molecule sensor, might be suitable to identify bioactive compounds in natural herbs. Here, a phenylboronic acid appended Mycobacterium smegmatis porin A (MspA) nanopore is used as a sensor for herbal medicines. A variety of bioactive compounds based on salvianolic acids, including caffeic acid, protocatechuic acid, protocatechualdehyde, salvianic acid A, rosmarinic acid, lithospermic acid, salvianolic acid A and salvianolic acid B are identified. Using a custom machine learning algorithm, analyte identification is performed with an accuracy of 99.0%. This sensing principle is further used with natural herbs such as Salvia miltiorrhiza, Rosemary and Prunella vulgaris. No complex sample separation or purification is required and the sensing device is highly portable.

Beneficial endophytic fungi improve the yield and quality of Salvia miltiorrhiza by performing different ecological functions

Background

Endophytic fungi can enhance the growth and synthesis of secondary metabolites in medicinal plants. Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge is frequently employed for treating cardiovascular and cerebrovascular ailments, with the primary bioactive components being salvianolic acid and tanshinone. However, their levels in cultivated S. miltiorrhiza are inferior to that of the wild herbs, so the production of high-quality medicinal herbs is sharply declining. Consequently, the utilization of beneficial endophytic fungi to improve the yield and quality of S. miltiorrhiza holds great significance for the cultivation of medicinal plants.

Methods

In this study, nine non-pathogenic, endophytic fungal strains were introduced into sterile S. miltiorrhiza seedlings and cultivated both in vitro and in situ (the greenhouse). The effects of these strains on the growth indices, C and N metabolism, antioxidant activity, photosynthesis, and content of bioactive ingredients in S. miltiorrhiza were then evaluated.

Results

The results showed that the different genera, species, or strains of endophytic fungi regulated the growth and metabolism of S. miltiorrhiza in unique ways. These endophytic fungi primarily exerted their growth-promoting effects by increasing the net photosynthetic rate, intercellular CO2 concentration, and the activities of sucrose synthase, sucrose phosphate synthase, nitrate reductase, and glutamine synthetase. They also enhanced the adaptability and resistance to environmental stresses by improving the synthesis of osmoregulatory compounds and the activity of antioxidant enzymes. However, their regulatory effects on the growth and development of S. miltiorrhiza were affected by environmental changes. Moreover, the strains that significantly promoted the synthesis and accumulation of phenolic acids inhibited the accumulation of tanshinones components, and vice versa. The endophytic fungal strains Penicillium meloforme DS8, Berkeleyomyces basicola DS10, and Acremonium sclerotigenum DS12 enhanced the bioaccumulation of tanshinones. Fusarium solani DS16 elevated the rosmarinic acid content and yields in S. miltiorrhiza. The strain Penicillium javanicum DS5 improved the contents of dihydrotanshinone, salvianolic acid B, and rosmarinic acid. The strains P. meloforme DS8 and B. basicola DS10 improved resistance.

Conclusion

Various endophytic fungi affected the quality and yield of S. miltiorrhiza by regulating different physiological and metabolic pathways. This study also provides a novel and effective method to maximize the effects of beneficial endophytic fungi by selecting specific strains to design microbial communities based on the different ecological functions of endophytic fungi under varying environments and for specific production goals.

Genome-Wide Identification and Characterization of the Salvia miltiorrhiza Histone Deacetylase (HDAC) Family in Response to Multiple Abiotic Stresses

Salvia miltiorrhiza is a plant commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine. Its material bases for treating diseases are tanshinones and phenolic acids, including salvianolic acids. Histone deacetylase proteins (HDACs) are a class of specific functional enzymes that interact with acetylation groups on the N-terminal lysine of histone proteins further regulate gene transcription through structural changes at the chromatin level. HDACs involved in the growth and development of various plants, and induced by plant hormones to regulate the internal environment of plants to resist stress, at the same time affect the accumulation of some secondary metabolites. However, the role of SmHDACs on the accumulation of salvianolic acid in S. miltiorrhiza remains unclear. In this study, 16 SmHDACs genes were identified from the high-quality S. miltiorrhiza genome, their physicochemical properties were predicted. In phylogenetic trees co-constructed with HDACs proteins from other plants, SmHDACs was divided into three subfamilies, each with similar motif and conserved domain composition. The distribution of the three subfamilies is similar to that of dicotyledonous plants. Chromosome localization analysis showed that SmHDACs genes were randomly located. Cis-acting element analysis predicted that SmHDACs gene expression may be related to and induced by various phytohormones, such as MeJA and ABA. By combining the expression pattern and co-expression network induced by phytohormones, we speculate that SmHDACs may further influence the synthesis of salvianolic acid, and identified SmHDA5, a potential functional gene, then speculate its downstream target based on the co-expression network. In summary, we analyzed the SmHDACs gene family of S. miltiorrhiza and screened out the potential functional gene SmHDA5. From the perspective of epigenetics, we proposed the molecular mechanism of plant hormone promoting salvianolic acid synthesis, which filled the gap in the subdivision of histone deacetylase in S. miltiorrhiza research, provided a theoretical basis for the culture and transformation of S. miltiorrhiza germplasm resources.

Diterpenoid Tanshinones Can Inhibit Lung Cancer Progression by Improving the Tumor Microenvironment and Downregulation of NF-κB Expression

Diterpenoid tanshinones (DTs) are a bioactive fraction extracted from Salvia miltiorrhiza. High-performance liquid chromatography analysis revealed the presence of four compounds, namely, tanshinone IIA, tanshinone I, cryptotanshinone, and dihydrotanshinone. In this study, we aimed to propose a possible mechanism for the anti-lung cancer effect of DT. To do so, we utilized a lung cancer nude mice model and a lung cancer cell line (PC9) to investigate the effect of DT on lung cancer. We employed immunohistochemistry, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, hematoxylin and eosin staining, and immunofluorescence to analyze the pharmacological role of DT in the inhibition of lung cancer growth. The results showed that DT inhibited tumor growth, induced apoptosis in the nude mice model, and reduced inflammatory cell infiltration. Additionally, DT inhibited PC9 lung cancer cells, growth, proliferation, and migration. The mechanism of action of DT involves not only directly inhibiting cell proliferation and migration but also improving the tumor microenvironment. DT significantly increased the expression of important intestinal gap junction proteins, such as zonula occludens 1 (ZO-1) and occludin I. This upregulation contributes to the reinforcement of the intestinal mucosal barrier, thereby reducing the paracellular transport of lipopolysaccharides (LPS) through the intestine. Consequently, the decreased LPS levels lead to the inhibition of NF-κB expression and downregulation of macrophage polarization, as indicated by the decreased expression of CD68. In conclusion, this study has confirmed that DT has anti-lung cancer properties by improving the inflammatory tumor microenvironment via regulating macrophage polarization and inhibiting LPS-associated immune response. These results provide new insights into the mechanism of DT action against lung cancer.

Comparative analysis of three SmHPPR genes encoding hydroxyphenylpyruvate reductases in Salvia miltiorrhiza

Hydroxyphenylpyruvate reductase (HPPR) is an enzyme that is involved in the biosynthesis of hydrophilic phenolic acids in Salvia miltiorrhiza, which is a model medicinal plant. Three SmHPPR genes have been identified in the S. miltiorrhiza genome; however, only one has been functionally analyzed. Here, we cloned three SmHPPR genes (SmHPPR1, SmHPPR2, and SmHPPR3) from the cDNA of S. miltiorrhiza, and their expression profiles were studied. The expression levels of SmHPPR1 were significantly higher than those of SmHPPR2 and SmHPPR3, where SmHPPR1 revealed the highest level in stems, while SmHPPR2 and SmHPPR3 exhibited the highest level in flowers. SmHPPR1, SmHPPR2, and SmHPPR3 are localized in the cytoplasm. All three recombinant enzymes had HPPR activities and catalyzed the reduction of 4-hydroxyphenylpyruvic acid (pHPP) to 4-hydroxyphenyllactic acid (pHPL), with SmHPPR1 showing the highest activity. The transient over-expression of SmHPPR1, SmHPPR2, and SmHPPR3 in the leaves of Nicotiana benthamiana promoted the production of pHPL, which indicated that all three SmHPPRs had in vivo activities. Overall, between the three homologs, SmHPPR1 plays a dominant role in catalyzing pHPP to pHPL, which provides new insights into the biosynthesis of phenolic acids in S. miltiorrhiza.

Integrative effects of phytohormones in the phenolic acids production in Salvia verticillata L. under multi-walled carbon nanotubes and methyl jasmonate elicitation

Salvia verticillata L. is a well-known herb rich in rosmarinic acid (RA) and with therapeutic values. To better understand the possible roles of phytohormones in the production of phenolic acids in S. verticillata, in this work, we investigated some physiological and biochemical responses of the species to methyl jasmonate (MJ) and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) as two effective elicitors. The leaves were sprayed with aqueous solutions containing 100 mg L-1 MWCNTs and 100 µM MJ and then harvested during interval times of exposure up to 96 h. The level of abscisic acid, as the first effective phytohormone, was altered in the leaves in response to MJ and MWCNTs elicitation (2.26- and 3.06-fold more than the control, respectively), followed by significant increases (P ˂ 0.05) detected in jasmonic acid and salicylic acid contents up to 8 h after exposure. Obtained data revealed that simultaneously with changes in phytohormone profiles, significant (P ˂ 0.05) rises were observed in the content of H2O2 (8.85- and 9.74-folds of control), and the amount of lipid peroxidation (10.18- and 17.01-folds of control) during the initial times after exposure to MJ and MWCNTs, respectively. Later, the content of phenolic acids increased in the elicited leaves due to changes in the transcription levels of key enzymes involved in their biosynthesis pathways, so 2.71- and 11.52-fold enhances observed in the RA content of the leaves after exposure to MJ and MWCNTs, respectively. It is reasonable to conclude that putative linkages between changes in some phytohormone pools lead to the accumulation of phenolic acids in the leaves of S. verticillata under elicitation. Overall, the current findings help us improve our understanding of the signal transduction pathways of the applied stimuli that led to enhanced secondary metabolite production in medicinal plants.

Adjuvant role of Salvia miltiorrhiza bunge in cancer chemotherapy: A review of its bioactive components, health-promotion effect and mechanisms

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Chemotherapy is a common cancer treatment strategy. However, its effectiveness is constrained by toxicity and adverse effects. The Lamiaceae herb Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge has a long history of therapeutic use in the treatment of blood stasis illnesses, which are believed by traditional Chinese medicine to be connected to cancer.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This review summarized the common toxicity of chemotherapy and the potential chemo-adjuvant effect and mechanisms of active ingredients from S. miltiorrhiza, hoping to provide valuable information for the development and application of S. miltiorrhiza resources.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The literatures were retrieved from PubMed, Web of Science, Baidu Scholar and Google Scholar databases from 2002 to 2022. The inclusion criteria were studies reporting that S. miltiorrhiza or its constituents enhanced the efficiency of chemotherapy drugs or reduced the side effects.

RESULTS

Salvianolic acid A, salvianolic acid B, salvianolic acid C, rosmarinic acid, tanshinone I, tanshinone IIA, cryptotanshinone, dihydrotanshinone I and miltirone are the primary adjuvant chemotherapy components of S. miltiorrhiza. The mechanisms mainly involve inhibiting proliferation, metastasis, and angiogenesis, inducing apoptosis, regulating autophagy and tumor microenvironment. In addition, they also improve chemotherapy drug-induced side effects.

CONCLUSIONS

The bioactive compounds of S. miltiorrhiza are shown to inhibit proliferation, metastasis, and angiogenesis, induce apoptosis and autophagy, regulate immunity and tumor microenvironment when combined with chemotherapy drugs. However, further clinical studies are required to validate the current studies.

Accumulation of Polyphenols and Associated Gene Expression in Hairy Roots of Salvia viridis Exposed to Methyl Jasmonate

Methyl jasmonate (MJA), a signaling molecule in stress pathways, can be used to induce secondary metabolite synthesis in plants. The present study examines its effects on the growth of Salvia viridis hairy roots, and the accumulation of bioactive compounds, and correlates it with the expression of genes involved in the phenylpropanoid pathway. To our knowledge, this study represents the first exploration of elicitation in S. viridis culture and the first comprehensive analysis of MJA's influence on such a wide array of genes within the polyphenol metabolic pathway in the Salvia genus. Plants were treated with 50 and 100 µM MJA, and samples were collected at intervals of one, three, five, and seven days post-elicitation. HPLC analysis revealed that MJA stimulated the accumulation of all tested compounds, with a 30% increase (38.65 mg/g dry weight) in total polyphenol content (TPC) on day five. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis demonstrated a significant increase in the expression of the phenylpropanoid pathway genes-TAT (tyrosine aminotransferase), HPPR (4-hydroxyphenylpyruvate reductase), PAL (phenylalanine ammonia-lyase), C4H (cinnamic acid 4-hydroxylase), 4CL (4-coumarate-CoA ligase), and RAS (rosmarinic acid synthase)-following MJA treatment. For the majority of the genes, this increase was observed after the first day of treatment. Importantly, our present results confirm strong correlations of the analyzed gene expression with polyphenol biosynthesis. These findings support the notion that hairy roots provide a promising biotechnological framework for augmenting polyphenol production. Additionally, the combination of elicitor treatment and transgenic technology emerges as a viable strategy to enhance the biosynthesis of these valuable metabolites.

The Role of Natural Extracts in the Management of Infantile Hemangiomas and Vascular Tumors

Hemangiomas are vascular tumors resulting from the proliferation of endothelial-like cells; they are the most common childhood tumors, affecting approximately 5-10% of newborns and infants. Besides hemangiomas, which are definitely benign tumors despite their overgrowth potential, there are other vascular tumors like hemangioendotheliomas, which may display intermediate characteristics between benign hemangiomas and highly malignant angiosarcomas. Standard therapy may be constricted by serious adverse effects, high cost, or traumatic influence. Diet is a major resource for health preservation, disease prevention, and treatment. The therapeutic property of edible berries, marine products, or medicinal plants have long been known and used in traditional medicine; a plant-based nutrition can prevent the development and progression of diseases associated with extensive neo-vascularization. The purpose of our review is to highlight those natural treatments that hemangioma and vascular tumor patients can receive in the future, both for their benefit and that of their families. We performed the review according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Metanalysis Statement. We used the Web of Science, PubMed, and EMBASE engines for the study, and searched for the association of hemangioma with naturopathic treatment/plant extract/plants in published articles. We found that natural extracts from plants and fruits are cost-effective and safe treatments for hemangiomas and vascular tumors, as well as for other forms of cancer. In any case, more in vitro and in vivo studies are needed to confirm the proposed signaling pathways in tumors and validate the improvement parameters after natural products administration. The era of molecularly targeted therapy and personalized medicine is approaching and naturally occurring substances are very useful tools for tumor treatment and prevention. Plant extract substances have strong specificity and pertinence, are non- toxic and have few side effects, and may become an emerging cancer treatment.

An Update on Recent Studies Focusing on the Antioxidant Properties of Salvia Species

Nutrition has crucial effects and a significant role in disease prevention. Recently, nutraceuticals have attracted much attention in scientific research due to their pleiotropic effects and relatively non-toxic behavior. Among the biological effects displayed by plants belonging to the Lamiaceae family, such as antibacterial, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and anticholinesterase, sage is well known for its antioxidant properties and is a rich source of numerous compounds that are biologically active, amongst them polyphenols, with more than 160 types identified. In this review we summarized some of the significant studies published in the last decade reporting the most employed extraction methods and the different assays that are useful for establishing the antioxidant properties of some sage species. Even though the scientific literature contains plenty of data regarding the antioxidant properties of many sage species, further studies are needed in order to gain a deeper understanding of the mechanism of action and the compounds responsible for their antioxidant activity. Finally, it should be taken into account that the data on the antioxidant properties of sage extracts are often difficult to compare with each other, since a series of variables in the extraction procedures, the type of assay used, and standardization may affect the final result.

Fufang Zhenzhu Tiaozhi (FTZ) capsule ameliorates diabetes-accelerated atherosclerosis via suppressing YTHDF2-mediated m6A modification of SIRT3 mRNA

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Fufang Zhenzhu TiaoZhi (FTZ), a Chinese medicinal decoction, has continuously been used to treat metabolic syndrome. Atherosclerosis is the main pathological basis of cardiovascular disease. The N6 methyladenosine (m6A) modification is a highly dynamic and reversible process involving a variety of important biological processes.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Here, we investigated the therapeutic effects and mechanism of FTZ in diabetes-accelerated atherosclerosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Doppler ultrasonography was used to examine the carotid intima-media thickness and plaque area in diabetic atherosclerosis patients. HFD mice were injected with streptozotocin to induce diabetes. HE and Oil red O staining were used to assess the effect of FTZ on lipid deposition. HUVECs were induced with HG/ox-LDL as a model of diabetic atherosclerosis. Furthermore, application of m6A methylation level kit, qRT-PCR, Western blot, tunel staining, reactive oxygen species staining and mPTP staining were performed to analyze the detailed mechanism.

RESULTS

Clinical trials of FTZ have shown obvious effect of lowering blood glucose and blood lipids. These effects were reversed after FTZ intervention. Compared with the control, lipid deposition decreased significantly after FTZ administration. FTZ reduced endothelial cell apoptosis. At the same time, we found that FTZ reversed the increase of methylation reader YTHDF2 caused by ox-LDL treatment. Subsequently, we discovered that YTHDF2 degraded SIRT3 mRNA, leading to endothelial cell apoptosis and oxidative stress.

CONCLUSION

FTZ attenuated diabetes-accelerated atherosclerosis by decreasing blood glucose and serum lipids levels, and increased endothelial cell antioxidant capacity, inhibited endothelial cell apoptosis via inhibiting YTHDF2-mediated m6A modification of SIRT3 mRNA, which reduced mRNA degradation.

Bioactive components and molecular mechanisms of Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge in promoting blood circulation to remove blood stasis

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge (SM) is an outstanding herbal medicine with various traditional effects, especially promoting blood circulation to remove blood stasis. It has been widely used for centuries to treat blood stasis syndrome (BSS)-related diseases. BSS is one of the basic pathological syndromes of diseases such as cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases in traditional East Asian medicine, which is characterized by disturbance of blood circulation. However, the bioactive components and mechanisms of SM in the treatment of BSS have not been systematically reviewed. Therefore, this article outlines the anti-BSS effects of bioactive components of SM, concentrating on the molecular mechanisms.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

To summarize the bioactive components of SM against BSS and highlight its potential targets and signaling pathways, hoping to provide a modern biomedical perspective to understand the efficacy of SM on enhancing blood circulation to remove blood stasis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A comprehensive literature search was performed to retrieve articles published in the last two decades on bioactive components of SM used for BSS treatment from the online electronic medical literature database (PubMed).

RESULTS

Phenolic acids and tanshinones in SM are the main bioactive components in the treatment of BSS, including but not limited to salvianolic acid B, tanshinone IIA, salvianolic acid A, cryptotanshinone, Danshensu, dihydrotanshinone, rosmarinic acid, protocatechuic aldehyde, and caffeic acid. They protect vascular endothelial cells by alleviating oxidative stress and inflammatory damage and regulating of NO/ET-1 levels. They also enhance anticoagulant and fibrinolytic capacity, inhibit platelet activation and aggregation, and dilate blood vessels. Moreover, lowering blood lipids and improving blood rheological properties may be the underlying mechanisms of their anti-BSS. More notably, these compounds play an anti-BSS role by mediating multiple signaling pathways such as Nrf2/HO-1, TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB, PI3K/Akt/eNOS, MAPKs (p38, ERK, and JNK), and Ca2+/K+ channels.

CONCLUSIONS

Both phenolic acids and tanshinones in SM may act synergistically to target different signaling pathways to achieve the effect of promoting blood circulation.

Effect of Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge extracts on improving the efficacy and reducing the toxicity of Tripterygium wilfordii polyglycosides in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Tripterygium wilfordii polyglycosides (TWP), extracted from the traditional Chinese herb Tripterygium wilfordii, has been widely used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, the toxicity of TWP to a variety of organs such as liver, kidney and testis greatly limits its clinical application. Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge is often used in the treatment of RA due to its blood circulation promoting, stasis resolving, and anti-inflammatory effects. Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge has also been reported to possess multiple organ protective effects.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To investigate the influences of two main components of Salviorrhiza miltiorrhiza Bunge, hydrophilic salvianolic acids (SA) and lipophilic tanshinones (Tan), on the efficacy and toxicity of TWP in treating RA and to explore the underlying mechanisms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

SA and Tan were extracted from Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge and the extracts were quantitated by HPLC and identified by UPLC-Q/TOF-MS. Then, a collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) rat model was established using bovine type II collagen (CII) and incomplete Freund's adjuvant (IFA). CIA rats were treated with TWP and/or SA/Tan. After 21 days of continuous treatment, arthritis symptoms and organs toxicity were evaluated. Meanwhile, serum metabolomics were investigated by the UPLC-Q/TOF-MS to understand the underlying mechanism.

RESULTS

SA and Tan extracts could significantly alleviate arthritis symptoms in CIA rats and decrease the serum levels of inflammatory factors TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 when combined with TWP. Meanwhile, both extracts alleviated injury of liver, kidney and testis caused by TWP, and the hydrophilic extract SA was superior. Moreover, a total of 38 endogenous differential metabolites were identified between the CIA model group and the TWP group, among which 33 metabolites were significantly recovered after the combination of SA or Tan. Metabolic pathway analysis showed that SA and Tan can affect metabolic pathways including linoleic acid metabolism, glycerophospholipid metabolism, sphingolipid metabolism and steroid biosynthesis metabolism pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings indicated for the first time that two Salviorrhiza miltiorrhiza Bunge extracts could improve the efficacy and reduce the toxicity of TWP in the treatment of RA by adjusting metabolic pathways, and the hydrophilic extract SA was superior.

Salvianolic acid F suppresses KRAS-dependent lung cancer cell growth through the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

KRAS mutation is a common driver of NSCLC, and there is a high proportion of lung cancer patients with KRAS G12C and G12D mutation. KRAS was previously considered an "undruggable" target, but the first KRAS G12C mutation-targeted drug AMG510, entered the market in 2021. However, treatments for G12D mutant tumors remain to be discovered. Salvianolic acid F (SalF), a monomer derived from the traditional Chinese medicine Salvia miltiorrhiza (SM), and KRAS had high binding affinity, especially for KRAS G12D. There is an urgent need to investigate effective and safe novel targeted therapies against KRAS G12D-driven NSCLC.

METHODS

To evaluate the anticancer effect of SalF, we used KRAS-overexpressing lung cancer cells in vitro, a subcutaneous transplant tumor model, and KRAS G12D mice model in vivo. Then, the binding effect of SalF and KRAS was investigated using molecular docking, proteolytic assays and protein thermal shift assays. More critically, the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway in the lung was investigated utilizing RT-qPCR and Western Blotting.

RESULTS

This is the first study to evaluate the anticancer effect of SalF on KRAS-overexpressing lung cancer cells or KRAS G12D lung tumors in vivo. We demonstrated that SalF inhibits OE-KRAS A549 cell migration, proliferation and promotes apoptosis in vitro. In addition, we used a subcutaneous transplant tumor model to show that SalF suppresses the growth of lung cancer cells in vivo. Interestingly, our group found that SalF was strongly bound to G12D and could decrease the stability and promoted the degradation of the KRAS G12D mutant through molecular docking, proteolytic assays and protein thermal shift assays. Further research demonstrated that in the KrasG12D mice model, after SalF treatment, the number and size of mouse lung tumors were significantly reduced. More importantly, SalF can promote apoptosis by inhibiting downstream PI3K/AKT signaling pathway activation.

CONCLUSION

SalF activated apoptosis signaling pathways, suppressed anti-apoptotic genes, and inhibited lung cancer cell growth. These datas suggested that SalF could effectively inhibit the growth of lung tumors with KRAS G12D mutation. SalF may be a novel inhibitor against KRAS G12D, providing a strong theoretical basis for the clinical treatment of lung cancer with KRAS mutations.

Comparative pharmacokinetics of four bioactive components in normal and chronic heart failure rats after oral administration of Qiangxin Lishui Prescription by microdialysis combined with ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography

Qiangxin Lishui Prescription (QLP) has been clinically applied for treating heart failure with remarkable curative effects. A multi-component pharmacokinetic research is very necessary for determining active substances in it. This study aims to profile the traits and differences in the pharmacokinetics of salvianolic acid B, astragaloside IV, calycosin-7-O-β-D-glucoside and kaempferol in QLP between normal and chronic heart failure (CHF) rats by microdialysis combined with ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS). Sensitive, selective, and online microdialysis combined with the UHPLC-MS/MS method was successfully established and applied to study the pharmacokinetics of QLP. The pathological condition of CHF could lead to the enhancement of systematic exposure and reduction of the metabolic rate of four bioactive components for better bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy. The pharmacokinetic results will provide data support for the clinical application of QLP.

Lycium RIN negatively modulate the biosynthesis of kukoamine A in hairy roots through decreasing thermospermine synthase expression

Root bark (Lycii cortex) of Lycium contains high contents of characteristic bioactive compounds, including kukoamine A (KuA) and kukoamine B (KuB). RIPENING INHIBITOR (RIN) is well known as a master regulator of Solanaceaous fruit ripening. However, the role of RIN in the biosynthetic pathway of KuA in Lycium remains unclear. In this study, integrated transcriptomic, metabolomic analyses and hairy root system are used to characterize the role of RIN in KuA biosynthesis in Lycium. The ultra performance liquid chromatography electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry analysis revealed that KuA was significantly induced in LrRIN1 RNAi lines and not detected in overexpression lines. A total of 20,913 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and 60 differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs) were detected in LrRIN1 transgenic hairy roots, which were used for weighted gene co-expression network analysis. Our result reveals a high association between KuA and structural genes in the phenolamide pathway, which shows a negative correlation with LrRIN1. In addition, overexpression of the polyamine pathway gene thermospermine synthase LcTSPMS, a potential target gene of Lycium RIN, increased the contents of both KuA and KuB in L. chinense hairy root, indicating that TSPMS is responsible for KuA biosynthesis and is also the common upstream biosynthetic gene for both KuA and KuB. Our results lay a solid foundation for uncovering the biosynthetic pathway of KuA, which will facilitate the molecular breeding and genetic improvement of Lycium species.

Functional characterization of CYP81C16 involved in the tanshinone biosynthetic pathway in Salvia miltiorrhiza

Danshen, the dried roots and rhizomes of Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge (S. miltiorrhiza), is widely used in the treatment of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Tanshinones, the bioactive compounds from Danshen, exhibit a wide spectrum of pharmacological properties, suggesting their potential for future therapeutic applications. Tanshinone biosynthesis is a complex process involving at least six P450 enzymes that have been identified and characterized, most of which belong to the CYP76 and CYP71 families. In this study, CYP81C16, a member of the CYP71 clan, was identified in S. miltiorrhiza. An in vitro assay revealed that it could catalyze the hydroxylation of four para-quinone-type tanshinones, namely neocryptotanshinone, deoxyneocryptotanshinone, and danshenxinkuns A and B. SmCYP81C16 emerged as a potential broad-spectrum oxidase targeting the C-18 position of para-quinone-type tanshinones with an impressive relative conversion rate exceeding 90%. Kinetic evaluations andin vivo assays underscored its highest affinity towards neocryptotanshinone among the tested substrates. The overexpression of SmCYP81C16 promoted the accumulation of (iso)tanshinone in hairy root lines. The characterization of SmCYP81C16 in this study accentuates its potential as a pivotal tool in the biotechnological production of tanshinones, either through microbial or plant metabolic engineering.

The role of ferroptosis in diabetic cardiovascular diseases and the intervention of active ingredients of traditional Chinese medicine

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), encompassing ischaemic heart disease, cardiomyopathy, and heart failure, among others, are the most prevalent complications of diabetes and the leading cause of mortality in patients with diabetes. Cell death modalities, including apoptosis, necroptosis, and pyroptosis, have been demonstrated to be involved in the pathogenesis of CVDs. As research progresses, accumulating evidence also suggests the involvement of ferroptosis, a novel form of cell death, in the pathogenesis of CVDs. Ferroptosis, characterised by iron-dependent lipid peroxidation, which culminates in membrane rupture, may present new therapeutic targets for diabetes-related cardiovascular complications. Current treatments for CVDs, such as antihypertensive, anticoagulant, lipid-lowering, and plaque-stabilising drugs, may cause severe side effects with long-term use. Traditional Chinese medicine, with its broad range of activities and minimal side effects, is widely used in China. Numerous studies have shown that active components of Chinese medicine, such as alkaloids, polyphenols, and saponins, can prevent CVDs by regulating ferroptosis. This review summarises the recent findings on the regulatory mechanisms of active components of Chinese medicine against ferroptosis in CVDs, aiming to provide new directions and a scientific basis for targeting ferroptosis for the prevention and treatment of diabetic CVDs.

Simultaneous Promotion of Salt Tolerance and Phenolic Acid Biosynthesis in Salvia miltiorrhiza via Overexpression of Arabidopsis MYB12

Transcription factors play crucial roles in regulating plant abiotic stress responses and physiological metabolic processes, which can be used for plant molecular breeding. In this study, an R2R3-MYB transcription factor gene, AtMYB12, was isolated from Arabidopsis thaliana and introduced into Salvia miltiorrhiza under the regulation of the CaMV35S promoter. The ectopic expression of AtMYB12 resulted in improved salt tolerance in S. miltiorrhiza; transgenic plants showed a more resistant phenotype under high-salinity conditions. Physiological experiments showed that transgenic plants exhibited higher chlorophyll contents, and decreased electrolyte leakage and O2- and H2O2 accumulation when subjected to salt stress. Moreover, the activity of reactive oxygen species (ROS)-scavenging enzymes was enhanced in S. miltiorrhiza via the overexpression of AtMYB12, and transgenic plants showed higher superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and peroxidase (POD) activities compared with those of the wild type (WT) under salt stress, coupled with lower malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. In addition, the amount of salvianolic acid B was significantly elevated in all AtMYB12 transgenic hair roots and transgenic plants, and qRT-PCR analysis revealed that most genes in the phenolic acid biosynthetic pathway were up-regulated. In conclusion, these results demonstrated that AtMYB12 can significantly improve the resistance of plants to salt stress and promote the biosynthesis of phenolic acids by regulating genes involved in the biosynthetic pathway.

Salicylic acid regulates phenolic acid biosynthesis via SmNPR1-SmTGA2/SmNPR4 modules in Salvia miltiorrhiza

Phenolic acids are the main active ingredients in Salvia miltiorrhiza, which can be used for the treatment of many diseases, particularly cardiovascular diseases. It is known that salicylic acid (SA) can enhance phenolic acid content, but the molecular mechanism of its regulation is still unclear. Nonexpresser of PR genes 1 (NPR1) plays a positive role in the SA signaling pathway. In this study, we identified a SmNPR1 gene that responds to SA induction and systematically investigated its function. We found that SmNPR1 positively affected phenolic acid biosynthesis. Then, we identified a novel TGA transcription factor, SmTGA2, which interacts with SmNPR1. SmTGA2 positively regulates phenolic acid biosynthesis by directly up-regulating SmCYP98A14 expression. After double-gene transgenic analysis and other biochemical assays, it was found that SmNPR1 and SmTGA2 work synergistically to regulate phenolic acid biosynthesis. In addition, SmNPR4 forms a heterodimer with SmNPR1 to inhibit the function of SmNPR1, and SA can alleviate this effect. Collectively, these findings elucidate the molecular mechanism underlying the regulation of phenolic acid biosynthesis by SmNPR1-SmTGA2/SmNPR4 modules and provide novel insights into the SA signaling pathway regulating plant secondary metabolism.

Protective benefits of salvianic acid A against retinal iron overload by inhibition of ferroptosis

BACKGROUND

Both the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and iron overload are significant variables that enhance the incidence of photoreceptor cell death and retinal degeneration. The discovery of ferroptosis, which is characterized by iron-dependent lipid peroxidation, has led to a new perspective on how retinal degeneration develops. As a natural phenolic acid, salvianic acid A (SAA) from Salvia miltiorrhiza has promise in treating eye diseases. The purpose of this research was to learn more about SAA and its function in the development of iron-overload-induced retinal degeneration.

METHODS

Models of iron overload in Kunming mice and the murine photoreceptor cell line 661 W were established, then the protective and antiferroptotic properties of SAA were assessed in vivo and in vitro.

RESULTS

Biochemical and histopathological findings on the retina confirmed that SAA successfully alleviated retinal injury. In photoreceptor cells, iron overload caused cell death, mitochondrial dysfunction, ROS generation, and iron deposition. Salvianic acid A relieved lipid peroxidation and decreased iron accumulation by modulating Acyl-CoA synthetase long-chain family member 4, glutathione peroxidase 4, solute carrier family 7 member 11, and iron-metabolism-related proteins. The mitochondrial morphology suggests that the retinal protective effect of SAA is mediated via antiferroptotic action.

CONCLUSION

Ferroptosis plays an important role in the pathogenesis of iron-overload-induced retinal degeneration. New roles of SAA in ferroptosis prevention via iron deposit inhibition, lipid peroxidation inhibition, and mitochondrial dysfunction reduction, were identified.

Salvianolic acid B inhibits hepatic stellate cell activation and liver fibrosis by targeting PDGFRβ

Liver fibrosis is a reversible pathological process and a wound healing response to liver injury. As an early stage of various liver diseases, liver fibrosis can develop into cirrhosis, liver failure, and even liver cancer if not controlled in time. Salvia miltiorrhiza is a medicinal plant with hepatoprotective effects. Salvianolic acid B (Sal B) is the representative component of S. miltiorrhiza. Many studies have reported the anti-liver fibrosis effects and mechanisms of Sal B. However, the direct anti-fibrotic targets of Sal B have not yet been reported. Platelet-derived growth factor receptor β (PDGFRβ) is one of the most classical targets in liver fibrosis, which is closely related to hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) activated. Previously, we established and applied a PDGFRβ affinity chromatography model, and found that Sal B binds well to PDGFRβ. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the direct targets of Sal B against liver fibrosis. We confirmed the binding ability of Sal B to PDGFRβ by molecular docking and a surface plasmon resonance biosensor. Our findings indicated that Sal B targeted PDGFRβ to inhibit the activation, migration and proliferation of HSCs and suppressed the PDGF-BB-induced PDGFRβ signaling pathway. Annexin V-FITC/PI assay showed that Sal B reversed the PDGF-BB-induced decrease in HSC apoptosis rate. In the mouse liver fibrosis model, Sal B inhibited the PDGFRβ signaling pathway, HSC activation and reduced inflammatory response, ultimately improved CCl4-induced liver fibrosis. In summary, the direct anti-fibrotic targets of Sal B may be PDGFRβ, and this study clarified the anti-liver fibrosis effects and mechanism of Sal B.

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.