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Jie XL, Tong ZR, Xu XY, Wu JH, Jiang XL, Tao Y, Feng PS, Yu J, Lan JP, Wang P. Mechanic study based on untargeted metabolomics of Pi-pa-run-fei-tang on pepper combined with ammonia induced chronic cough model mice. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 326:117905. [PMID: 38364934 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.117905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2024] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Pi-pa-run-fei-tang (PPRFT), a traditional Chinese medicine formula with long-standing history, demonstrated beneficial effect on chronic cough. However, the mechanism underlying efficacy unclear. In current research, we explored the impact and molecular mechanism of chronic cough mouse stimulating with capsaicin combined with ammonia. AIM OF THE STUDY To investigate the metabolic modulating effects, and potential mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effect of PPRFT in chronic cough. MATERIALS AND METHODS Chronic cough mouse models were created by stimulating mice by capsaicin combined with ammonia. Number of coughs and cough latency within 2 min were recorded. With lung tissue and serum samples collected for histopathology, metabolomics, RT-qPCR, immunohistochemistry, and WB analysis. Lymphocytes were isolated and flow cytometric assays were conducted to evaluate the differentiation between Th17 and Treg cell among CD4+ cells. RESULTS Results indicated that PPRFT obviously reduced the number of coughs, prolonged cough latency, reduced inflammatory cell infiltration and lung tissues damage, and decreased the serum level of IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-17 while increasing IL-10 levels. Notably, PPRFT suppressed Th17 cell divergence and promoted Treg cell divergence. Furthermore, serum metabolomic assays showed that 46 metabolites differed significantly between group, with 35 pathways involved. Moreover, mRNA levels of IL-6, NF-κB, IL-17, RORγT, JAK2, STAT3, PI3K and AKT in lung tissues remarkably reduced and mRNA levels of IL-10 and FOXP3 were elevated after PPRFT pretreatment. Additionally, PPRFT treatments decreased the protein levels of IL-6, NF-κB, IL-17, RORγT, p-JAK2, p-STAT3, p-PI3K, and p-AKT and increased the protein levels of IL-10 and FOXP3, but no significantly effects to the levels on JAK2, STAT3, PI3K, and AKT in the lungs. CONCLUSION Conclusively, our result suggested the effect with PPRFT on chronic cough may be mediated through IL-6/JAK2/STAT3 and PI3K/AKT/NF-κB pathway, which regulate the differentiation between Th17 and Treg cell. This beneficial effect of PPRFT in capsaicin and ammonia-stimulated chronic cough mice indicates its potential application in treating chronic cough.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Lu Jie
- The Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China; College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhe-Ren Tong
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xin-Yue Xu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jia-Hui Wu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xing-Liang Jiang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yi Tao
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Pei-Shi Feng
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jin Yu
- Hangzhou Zhongmei Huadong Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Hangzhou, China.
| | - Ji-Ping Lan
- School of Integrative Medicine Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (SHUTCM), Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Ping Wang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, China.
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Chen S, Wang J, Wang J, Jia X, Xuan Z, Cheng Z, Meng X, Su W. Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway promotes abnormal activation of fibroblast-like synoviocytes and angiogenesis in rheumatoid arthritis and the intervention of Er Miao San. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 120:155064. [PMID: 37716035 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2023.155064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Er Miao San (EMS) is an important herbal formula and a representative prescription for the treatment of the downwards flow of damp-heat syndrome. Clinical practice has proven that EMS can effectively treat rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Previous studies have demonstrated that EMS regulates the functions of T cells and dendritic cells and affects the polarization of macrophages. However, it is not clear whether the inhibitory effect of EMS on RA is related to the regulation of abnormal synovial activation and angiogenesis. PURPOSE The aim of this study was to elucidate the effect and potential mechanisms of EMS on the abnormal activation and angiogenesis of fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLSs) in RA. METHODS The effect of EMS on rats with adjuvant arthritis (AA) and MH7A cells was examined by X-ray, haematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining, immunohistochemistry (IHC), ELISA and western blotting. Angiogenesis in AA rats was measured by a small animal ultrasound imaging system, immunofluorescence (IF) analysis and ELISA. An exchange between MH7A cells and HUVECs was induced using conditioned media that mimicked the microenvironment in vivo. CCK-8, western blotting, and scratch healing and Transwell migration assays were used to evaluate the effect of EMS on the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway and angiogenesis in the inflammatory microenvironment of RA. RESULTS Our results showed that EMS had a protective effect on AA rats. On the one hand, there was a decrease in paw swelling, the arthritis index, organ indices and proinflammatory factor levels, as well as relief of joint damage. On the other hand, blood flow, the number of immature blood vessels and proangiogenic factors were decreased. Furthermore, EMS reduced the expression of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in the synovial tissue of AA rats and MH7A cells. In the inflammatory microenvonrment of RA, the results were consistent. CONCLUSION This study demonstrated that EMS could protect against RA by inhibiting the abnormal activation and angiogenesis of FLSs, and the mechanism may be related to inhibiting the activation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simeng Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei 230012, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, China
| | - Jin Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei 230012, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, China
| | - Jiayu Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei 230012, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, China
| | - Xiaoyi Jia
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei 230012, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, China.
| | - Zihua Xuan
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei 230012, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, China.
| | - Zhiluo Cheng
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei 230012, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, China
| | - Xiangwen Meng
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei 230012, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, China
| | - Wenrui Su
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei 230012, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, China
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Chen B, Wang Y, Chen G. New Potentiality of Bioactive Substances: Regulating the NLRP3 Inflammasome in Autoimmune Diseases. Nutrients 2023; 15:4584. [PMID: 37960237 PMCID: PMC10650318 DOI: 10.3390/nu15214584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome is an essential component of the human innate immune system, and is closely associated with adaptive immunity. In most cases, the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome requires priming and activating, which are influenced by various ion flux signals and regulated by various enzymes. Aberrant functions of intracellular NLRP3 inflammasomes promote the occurrence and development of autoimmune diseases, with the majority of studies currently focused on rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus and systemic sclerosis. In recent years, a number of bioactive substances have shown new potentiality for regulating the NLRP3 inflammasome in autoimmune diseases. This review provides a concise overview of the composition, functions, and regulation of the NLRP3 inflammasome. Additionally, we focus on the newly discovered bioactive substances for regulating the NLRP3 inflammasome in autoimmune diseases in the past three years.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Guangjie Chen
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China; (B.C.); (Y.W.)
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Li W, Yu L, Li W, Ge G, Ma Y, Xiao L, Qiao Y, Huang W, Huang W, Wei M, Wang Z, Bai J, Geng D. Prevention and treatment of inflammatory arthritis with traditional Chinese medicine: Underlying mechanisms based on cell and molecular targets. Ageing Res Rev 2023; 89:101981. [PMID: 37302756 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2023.101981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Inflammatory arthritis, primarily including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and ankylosing spondylitis, is a group of chronic inflammatory diseases, whose general feature is joint dysfunction with chronic pain and eventually causes disability in older people. To date, both Western medicine and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) have developed a variety of therapeutic methods for inflammatory arthritis and achieved excellent results. But there is still a long way to totally cure these diseases. TCM has been used to treat various joint diseases for thousands of years in Asia. In this review, we summarize clinical efficacies of TCM in inflammatory arthritis treatment after reviewing the results demonstrated in meta-analyses, systematic reviews, and clinical trials. We pioneered taking inflammatory arthritis-related cell targets of TCM as the entry point and further elaborated the molecular targets inside the cells of TCM, especially the signaling pathways. In addition, we also briefly discussed the relationship between gut microbiota and TCM and described the role of drug delivery systems for using TCM more accurately and safely. We provide updated and comprehensive insights into the clinical application of TCM for inflammatory arthritis treatment. We hope this review can guide and inspire researchers to further explore mechanisms of the anti-arthritis activity of TCM and make a great leap forward in comprehending the science of TCM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhao Li
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, Jiangsu, China; Orthopedic Institute, Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lei Yu
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, Jiangsu, China; Orthopedic Institute, Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wenming Li
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, Jiangsu, China; Orthopedic Institute, Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, Jiangsu, China
| | - Gaoran Ge
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, Jiangsu, China; Orthopedic Institute, Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yong Ma
- Department of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, School of Chinese Medicine & School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, Jiangsu, China
| | - Long Xiao
- Translational Medical Innovation Center, Department of Orthopedics, Zhangjiagang TCM Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Zhangjiagang 215600, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yusen Qiao
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, Jiangsu, China; Orthopedic Institute, Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wei Huang
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230031, Anhui, China
| | - Wenli Huang
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230031, Anhui, China
| | - Minggang Wei
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhirong Wang
- Translational Medical Innovation Center, Department of Orthopedics, Zhangjiagang TCM Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Zhangjiagang 215600, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Jiaxiang Bai
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, Jiangsu, China; Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230031, Anhui, China.
| | - Dechun Geng
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, Jiangsu, China; Orthopedic Institute, Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, Jiangsu, China.
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Mu L, Xu H, Hong Y, Zhou W, Wang L, Liu P, Chen M, Hu Y. Chemical compositions of Souliea vaginata (Maxim) Franch rhizome and their potential therapeutic effects on collagen-induced arthritis in rats. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 310:116416. [PMID: 36990303 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL REVEVANCE Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a global prevalent chronic autoimmune inflammatory disease and acceptable safety drugs are lack for its treatment. The rhizomes of Souliea vaginata (Maxim) Franch (SV) possess anti-inflammatory functions and are used as substitution of Coptis chinensis Franch. SV is also traditional Chinese medicine and Tibetan medicine for the treatment of conjunctivitis, enteritis and rheumatic. For searching complementary and alternative anti-RA drugs, it is necessary to characterize the potential anti-arthritic activity of SV and underlying mechanism involved. AIM OF THE STUDY The aim of the study was to test the chemical compositions, evaluate the anti-arthritic effects and underlying mechanisms of SV. MATERIALS AND METHODS The chemical compositions of SV were analyzed using liquid chromatography-ion trap-time of flight tandem mass spectrometry (LCMS-IT-TOF). From day 11 to day 31, SV (0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 g/kg body weight) and Tripterygium glycosidorum (TG, 10 mg/kg body weight) were administered orally to the CIA model rats once a day. Thickness of paw and body weights were measured once every two days from day 1 to day 31. Histopathological changes were measured using hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining. Effects of SV on the levels of IL-2, TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-4 and IL-10 in serum of CIA rats were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits. CD3+, CD4+, CD8+ and CD4+CD25+ T cells populations were measured using flow cytometric analysis. To evaluate the possible hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity, the serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), blood urea (UREA) and creatinine (CREA) in CIA rats were also tested using blood auto analyzer. RESULTS 34 compounds were identified from SV based on LCMS-IT-TOF, and triterpenoids are major anti-arthritic compositions. SV significantly relieved CIA rats' paw swelling without obvious influence on the body weight growth. SV decreased the serum levels of IL-2, TNF-α and IFN-γ in CIA rat, and increased the serum levels of IL-4 and IL-10. SV significantly increased and decreased the percentages of CD4+ and CD8+, with no significant effects on CD3+ in lymphocytes of CIA model rats. Moreover, SV simultaneously decreased thymus and spleen indexes and no hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity was observed after short-term treatment. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that SV possesses preventive and therapeutic effect on RA by modulating the inflammatory cytokines, T-lymphocyte, thymus and spleen indexes and shows no hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- LiHua Mu
- Department of Pharmacy, Medical Supplies Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - HaiYan Xu
- Department of Pharmacy, Medical Supplies Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - Yan Hong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Medical Centre of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - WenBin Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Minzu University of China, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - LiHua Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Medical Supplies Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - Ping Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Medical Supplies Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - MengLi Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Medical Supplies Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100853, China.
| | - Yuan Hu
- Department of Pharmacy, Medical Supplies Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100853, China.
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Liu M, Wang J, Chen S, Meng X, Cheng Z, Wang J, Tan Y, Su W, Lu Z, Zhang M, Jia X. Exploring the effect of Er miao San-containing serum on macrophage polarization through miR-33/NLRP3 pathway. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 307:116178. [PMID: 36708884 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
HEADINGS ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic systemic autoimmune disease. Er miao San (EMS) has been shown to have good anti-inflammatory effects and is widely used in the clinical treatment of RA. However, the exact mechanism is not completely understood. AIM OF THE STUDY The aim of this study was to explore that EMS-containing serum affects M1/M2 polarization of macrophages and may be mediated through the microRNA (miRNA)-33/NLRP3 pathway, thereby elucidating the molecular mechanism of EMS treatment of RA. MATERIALS AND METHODS We screened for safe concentrations of EMS-containing serum by using CCK-8 measurement. RAW264.7 cells were cultured with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) (100 ng/mL) and interferon-γ (20 ng/mL) for 24 h to induce M1-type macrophages. Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) (5 mM) was added in the last 30 min to activate NLRP3. The content of miR-33 was detected by RT‒qPCR after transfection of the miRNA-33 mimic. The protein expression levels of NLRP3, ASC, caspase-1, Inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase (iNOS) and Arginase-1 (Arg-1) were detected by Western blot. The contents of IL-1β, IL-10, TNF-α, TGF-β and IL-18 in serum and cell supernatant were determined by ELISA. The fluorescence intensity of CD86 and CD206 was detected by immunofluorescence. RESULTS The results showed that EMS-containing serum promoted the protein expression level of Arg-1 and the secretion levels of TGF-β and IL-10, inhibited the levels of iNOS, IL-1β and TNF-α, and regulated the balance of pro-inflammatory factors and anti-inflammatory factors. RT‒qPCR results showed that EMS-containing serum could reduce the level of miRNA-33. EMS-containing serum could reduce the expression of NLRP3 inflammasome-related proteins and downregulate the expression levels of IL-1β and IL-18. These results suggest that EMS exerts its effect on macrophage polarization through the miRNA-33/NLRP3 pathway. CONCLUSION EMS-containing serum inhibits the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome by downregulating miRNA-33, thus preventing the polarization of M1-type macrophages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei, 230012, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China.
| | - Jin Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei, 230012, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China.
| | - Simeng Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei, 230012, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China.
| | - Xiangwen Meng
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei, 230012, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China.
| | - Zhiluo Cheng
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei, 230012, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China.
| | - Jiayu Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei, 230012, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China.
| | - Yanan Tan
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei, 230012, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China.
| | - Wenrui Su
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei, 230012, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China.
| | - Zhiyuan Lu
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei, 230012, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China.
| | - Min Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230001, China.
| | - Xiaoyi Jia
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei, 230012, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China.
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Xia Z, Li Q, Tang Z. Network pharmacology, molecular docking, and experimental pharmacology explored Ermiao wan protected against periodontitis via the PI3K/AKT and NF-κB/MAPK signal pathways. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 303:115900. [PMID: 36414214 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2022.115900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/30/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Ermiao Wan (EMW), a classic and famous traditional Chinese medicine (TCM)-based herbal formula combined Phellodendron chinense C.K.Schneid. (Cortex Phellodendri Chinsis, CP) and Atractylodes lancea (Thunb.) DC. (Rhizoma Atractylodis, RA) with the weight composition of 1:1, has been used for the treatment of periodontitis in China for a long time. However, its efficacy and mechanism of action are still unclear now. AIM OF THE STUDY This study explored the efficacy and pharmaceutical mechanism of action of EMW against periodontitis. MATERIALS AND METHODS The efficacy of EMW against periodontitis was evaluated using the ligature-induced periodontitis (LIP) mice, and inflammatory-related factors in gingiva and alveolar bone loss were determined using the qRT-PCR and micro-CT assays. The potential pharmacological mechanisms were predicted by bioinformatics analysis and further confirmed by the qRT-PCR and western blotting assays. RESULTS EMW exhibited inhibitory effects on periodontitis in the LIP mice. Bio-informational analysis showed the core compounds (berberine and chlorogenic acid) targeted the key genes (AKT, MAPK1, MAPK14, NF-κB, TNF, IL-2, and IL1B) through regulating the PI3K/AKT and NF-κB/MAPK signal pathways, which were validated using the qRT-PCR and western blotting assays. CONCLUSIONS EMW could eliminate alveolar bone loss and inhibit inflammation, thereby preventing the development of periodontitis. The mechanism of action may be achieved by regulating the PI3K/AKT and NF-κB/MAPK signal pathways. Therefore, EMW was a potential therapy for the treatment of periodontitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengxiang Xia
- Department of Pharmacy, Stomatological Hospital and Dental School of Tongji University, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Tooth Restoration and Regeneration, 399 Middle Yan Chang Road, Shanghai, 200072, China.
| | - Qin Li
- Department of Implantology, Stomatological Hospital and Dental School of Tongji University, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Tooth Restoration and Regeneration, Shanghai, 200072, China.
| | - Zhongyan Tang
- Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Jin Shan Hospital, Fudan University, 1508 Longhan Road, Shanghai, 201508, China.
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Sun Y, Liu J, Xin L, Wen J, Zhou Q, Chen X, Ding X, Zhang X. Xinfeng capsule inhibits inflammation and oxidative stress in rheumatoid arthritis by up-regulating LINC00638 and activating Nrf2/HO-1 pathway. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 301:115839. [PMID: 36272490 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2022.115839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Xinfeng capsule is a traditional Chinese medicine compound, which has been clinically used for more than 20 years in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), ankylosing spondylitis, osteoarthritis and its extracurricular lesions. However, the molecular role of XFC in the treatment of RA remains unclear. OBJECTIVE This study aims to explore the efficacy and potential mechanism of XFC through retrospective data mining analysis, animal experiments and cell experiments. METHODS The effect of XFC on clinical laboratory indexes of RA patients was observed using data mining techniques combined with association rule analysis and a random walk model. Afterwards, a rat model of adjuvant arthritis (AA) was established with Freund's complete adjuvant, followed by the observation of pathological changes in synovial tissues and the ultrastructure of synoviocytes. A RA cell model was constructed by inducing fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLSs) with tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) to assess the effects of XFC-containing serum on inflammation and oxidative stress through long non-coding RNA LINC00638. RESULTS In retrospective data mining, XFC effectively reduced immune inflammation and increase the level of antioxidant enzymes in RA patients. Subsequently, animal experiments showed that XFC significantly repressed immune inflammation, oxidative stress, synovial hyperplasia, and cartilage destruction, while improving the ultrastructure of synoviocytes in AA rats. XFC-containing serum diminished the proliferation of TNF-α-induced RA-FLSs, increased LINC00638 expression (P<0.01), decreased interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-17, reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) levels (P<0.01), and increased the protein expression of nuclear factor erythrocyte 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1), and superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2) (P<0.01). Furthermore, rescue experiments manifested that XFC-containing serum reversed the effects of silencing LINC00638 on inflammation and oxidative stress in RA-FLSs. CONCLUSION XFC inhibits inflammation and oxidative stress in RA by up-regulating LINC00638 and activating Nrf2/HO-1 pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanqiu Sun
- Department of Rheumatology, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230038, Anhui Province, China; Institute of Rheumatology, Anhui Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, Anhui Province, China.
| | - Jian Liu
- Department of Rheumatology, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230038, Anhui Province, China; Institute of Rheumatology, Anhui Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, Anhui Province, China.
| | - Ling Xin
- Information Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230038, Anhui Province, China; Institute of Rheumatology, Anhui Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, Anhui Province, China.
| | - Jianting Wen
- Department of Rheumatology, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230038, Anhui Province, China; Institute of Rheumatology, Anhui Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, Anhui Province, China.
| | - Qin Zhou
- Department of Rheumatology, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230038, Anhui Province, China; Institute of Rheumatology, Anhui Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, Anhui Province, China.
| | - Xiaolu Chen
- Department of Rheumatology, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230038, Anhui Province, China; Institute of Rheumatology, Anhui Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, Anhui Province, China.
| | - Xiang Ding
- Department of Rheumatology, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230038, Anhui Province, China; Institute of Rheumatology, Anhui Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, Anhui Province, China.
| | - Xianheng Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230038, Anhui Province, China; Institute of Rheumatology, Anhui Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, Anhui Province, China.
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9
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Zhao X, Yi Y, Jiang C, Huang X, Wen X, Liao H, Zhu Y, Liu Y, Li N, Pan D. Gancao Fuzi decoction regulates the Th17/Treg cell imbalance in rheumatoid arthritis by targeting Foxp3 via miR-34a. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 301:115837. [PMID: 36252875 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2022.115837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE During the Eastern Han Dynasty, Zhang Zhongjing first recorded the Gancao Fuzi decoction (GCFZD) formula in the "Synopsis of the Golden Chamber", which is reportedly an effective and safe treatment for rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, the mechanism underlying the observed improvement in the T helper 17 (Th17)/regulatory T (Treg) cell imbalance in RA obtained with GCFZD has not been reported. AIM OF THE STUDY This study aimed to demonstrate whether GCFZD ameliorated RA by modulating the Th17/Treg imbalance in RA mice. MATERIALS AND METHODS Collagen was used to induce a model of collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) in mice. GCFZD was administered by gavage, and the arthritis index score, imaging and histopathological changes of the ankle joints, and the levels of the immunoglobulin G (IgG) class antibodies and proinflammatory factors in serum were determined. In addition, the frequencies of Th17 and Treg cells, the levels of relevant transcription factors and functional factors and the miR-34a gene in the spleen and the levels of interleukin-17A (IL-17A) and IL-10 in serum were determined. RESULTS GCFZD significantly reduced the arthritis score, improved joint swelling and bone damage, reduced the pathological score, and decreased the serum levels of IgG class antibody (IgG and IgG2a) and proinflammatory factor [tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), IL-1β and IL-6]. Moreover, the Th17-cell proportion, the expression level of the Th17-specific transcription factor retinoic acid-related orphan receptor γt (RORγt) and functional factor IL-17A in the spleen, and the serum IL-17A level were decreased, whereas the Treg cell proportion, expression levels of the Treg-specific transcription factor forkhead box P3 (Foxp3) and functional factor IL-10 in the spleen, and the serum IL-10 level were increased. Furthermore, GCFZD inhibited miR-34a gene expression while promoting Foxp3 protein expression. CONCLUSIONS The findings of this study demonstrate the therapeutic effect of GCFZD on mice with CIA, and the mechanism is related to an improvement in the Th17/Treg cell imbalance by targeting Foxp3 via miR-34a.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoshan Zhao
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China.
| | - Yankui Yi
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China.
| | - Cuiping Jiang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China.
| | - Xintao Huang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China.
| | - Xiaomin Wen
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China.
| | - Huajun Liao
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China.
| | - Yongyan Zhu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China.
| | - Yanyan Liu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China.
| | - Nan Li
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China.
| | - Dongmei Pan
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China.
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10
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Wang T, Wang Z, Qi W, Jiang G, Wang G. The role, targets and mechanisms of traditional Chinese medicine in regulating the balance of T helper type 17/regulatory Tcells in rheumatoid arthritis. Int J Rheum Dis 2023; 26:613-624. [PMID: 36680325 DOI: 10.1111/1756-185x.14560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a persistent systemic autoimmune disease, having all the hallmarks of joint swelling, joint tenderness, and progressive joint destruction, with synovitis and pannus formation as the basic pathological changes. T-lymphocyte infiltration is the key to its pathogenesis. During the growth of RA, the share of regulatory T (Treg) cells decreases, while the percentage of T helper type 17 (Th17) cells increases, giving rise to an imbalance of Th17/Treg cells. Modern medicine has made great advances in the treatment of RA and the selection of available drugs, but there are also the disadvantages of gastrointestinal reaction, high price, and low patient compliance. Therapy of RA remains a problem. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has RA therapy developments, both in experimental research and clinical research, and its advantages of lasting effects and less detrimental reactions and fewer adverse effects are accepted by most patients. Numerous clinical and experimental studies have been performed in TCM on regulating Th17/Treg balance. However, the detailed mechanism of TCM intervention in Th17/Treg equilibrium in preventing and treating RA has not been discovered. In this article, the theory of regulating Th17/Treg cell equilibrium in RA is described from the perspectives of single Chinese medicine, active components of Chinese medicine, Chinese medicine compounds, and other therapies of TCM. It was found that TCM can regulate Th17/Treg cell balance and inhibit immunoreaction by intervening in cytokines, transcription factors, and signal pathways. It enables us to comprehensively and deeply understand the mechanism of TCM intervening in Th17/Treg balance in RA; provides direction for clinical therapy of RA; and offers new thoughts for understanding the pathogenesis of RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Wang
- Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
| | - Zhandong Wang
- Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
| | - Wenxia Qi
- Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
| | | | - Gang Wang
- Affiliated Hospital of Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
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11
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Liu M, Meng X, Xuan Z, Chen S, Wang J, Chen Z, Wang J, Jia X. Effect of Er Miao San on peritoneal macrophage polarisation through the miRNA-33/NLRP3 signalling pathway in a rat model of adjuvant arthritis. PHARMACEUTICAL BIOLOGY 2022; 60:846-853. [PMID: 35608068 PMCID: PMC9132473 DOI: 10.1080/13880209.2022.2066700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Er Miao San (EMS) is a formulation that contains Atractylodis Rhizoma and Phellodendri Cortex in 1:1 ratio, and is commonly used to treat rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and other inflammatory diseases. OBJECTIVE We investigated the mechanism of action and effects of EMS on peritoneal macrophage differentiation in a rat model of adjuvant arthritis (AA). MATERIALS AND METHODS EMS (3, 1.5 and 0.75 g/kg; once daily) and methotrexate (0.5 mg/kg; once every 3 days) were administered orally from days 21 to 35 after immunisation. Paw swelling and arthritis index were measured; pathological changes in the ankle joint were observed using x-ray and haematoxylin eosin staining. The ratio of CD86/CD206 in macrophages was detected by flow cytometry. Examination of the miRNA-33/NLRP3 signalling pathway was examined by RT-qPCR and western blotting. The levels of cytokines in the serum and cell supernatants were tested by ELISA. RESULTS EMS significantly reduced the AA index in rats (from 11.0 to 9.3) and pathological changes in the ankle joint (from 3.8 to 1.4). The ratio of CD86/CD206 was reduced, and polarisation to M1 improved (from 0.9 to 0.6) in macrophages of EMS-treated rats. EMS downregulated the miRNA-33/NLRP3 pathway. Furthermore, EMS treatment increased IL-10 and TGF-β levels in the serum and supernatant of macrophages of AA rats and simultaneously decreased the levels of IL-1β and TNF-α. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that EMS may reduce macrophage polarisation to the M1 inflammatory phenotype by downregulating the miRNA-33/NLRP3 pathway in AA rats. These findings may provide new insights into the treatment of RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Xiangwen Meng
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Zihua Xuan
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Simeng Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Jin Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Zhiluo Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Jiayu Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Xiaoyi Jia
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
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12
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Guo B, Zhao C, Zhang C, Xiao Y, Yan G, Liu L, Pan H. Elucidation of the anti-inflammatory mechanism of Er Miao San by integrative approach of network pharmacology and experimental verification. Pharmacol Res 2022; 175:106000. [PMID: 34838694 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2021.106000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2021] [Revised: 11/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been long time used in China and gains ever-increasing worldwide acceptance. Er Miao San (EMS), a TCM formula, has been extensively used to treat inflammatory diseases, while its bioactive components and therapeutic mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, we conducted an integrative approach of network pharmacology and experimental study to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of EMS in treating human rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and other inflammatory conditions. Quercetin, wogonin and rutaecarpine were probably the main active compounds of EMS in RA treatment as they affected the most RA-related targets, and TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β were considered to be the core target proteins. The main compounds in EMS bound to these core proteins, which was further confirmed by molecular docking and bio-layer interferometry (BLI) analysis. Moreover, the potential molecular mechanisms of EMS predicted from network pharmacology analysis, were validated in vivo and in vitro experiments. EMS was found to inhibit the production of NO, TNF-α and IL-6 in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW264.7 cells; reduce xylene-induced mouse ear edema; and decrease the incidence of carrageenan-induced rat paw edema. The carrageenan-induced up-regulation of TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β mRNA expression in rat paws was down-regulated by EMS, consistent with the network pharmacology results. This study provides evidence that EMS plays a critical role in anti-inflammation via suppressing inflammatory cytokines, indicating that EMS is a candidate herbal drug for further investigation in treating inflammatory and arthritic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macao 999078, China; Dr. Neher's Biophysics Laboratory for Innovative Drug Discovery, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macao 999078, China; Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - CaiPing Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macao 999078, China
| | - Chuanhai Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macao 999078, China; Dr. Neher's Biophysics Laboratory for Innovative Drug Discovery, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macao 999078, China
| | - Yao Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macao 999078, China; Dr. Neher's Biophysics Laboratory for Innovative Drug Discovery, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macao 999078, China
| | - Guangli Yan
- National Chinmedomics Research Center, Sino-America Chinmedomics Technology Collaboration Center, National TCM Key Laboratory of Serum Pharmacochemistry, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150006, China
| | - Liang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macao 999078, China; Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Joint Lab on Chinese Medicine and Immune Disease Research, Guangzhou 510000, China.
| | - Hudan Pan
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macao 999078, China; Dr. Neher's Biophysics Laboratory for Innovative Drug Discovery, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macao 999078, China; Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Joint Lab on Chinese Medicine and Immune Disease Research, Guangzhou 510000, China.
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13
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Shen J, Chen Q, Yang G, He Y. Observation of the curative effect of Guizhi-Shaoyao-Zhimu decoction combined with methotrexate in the treatment of early rheumatoid arthritis based on ultrasonic evaluation: study protocol of a randomized, double-blind, controlled clinical trial. Trials 2021; 22:764. [PMID: 34732237 PMCID: PMC8565030 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-021-05579-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease with the primary clinical symptoms of joint swelling and pain. Early detection of erosion and synovial inflammation at an active stage resulting from RA can prevent damage to the joints and activity restriction. However, there are still many patients who do not respond to these treatments; the development of newer, safer drugs is urgently needed. Compared to Western medicine, Guizhi-Shaoyao-Zhimu decoction has equal or higher efficacy and safety for RA patients. With the widespread use of musculoskeletal ultrasound (MSUS), this technology holds great value for the degree of joint damage in RA patients, guiding the clinical selection of treatments, and assessing of prognosis. Therefore, we designed a double-blinded randomized controlled clinical trial to measure the safety and efficacy of Guizhi-Shaoyao-Zhimu decoction in treating early-stage RA using MSUS. METHODS This study is a randomized, double-blinded, parallel group, placebo-controlled trial. A total of 152 adult participants with early RA will be enrolled, with balanced treatment allocation (1:1). The experimental intervention will be Guizhi-Shaoyao-Zhimu decoction plus the conventional medicine methotrexate and the control intervention will be placebo plus the conventional drug methotrexate for 3 months. In addition, both groups will receive folic acid during treatment to prevent side effects from methotrexate. The primary outcomes are the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP), hepatic and renal function, visual analog scale, disease activity score in 28 joints, measurement scale for TCM symptoms, and 7-joint ultrasound score. DISCUSSION We designed this double-blinded randomized controlled clinical trial to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Guizhi-Shaoyao-Zhimu decoction in RA patients using MSUS. The results of this trial may provide insights into how to improve the clinical symptoms of RA patients and delay further joint destruction. We hope that this trial may provide preliminary evidence of the efficacy of Guizhi-Shaoyao-Zhimu decoction in treating RA patients and that these results aid researchers, practitioners, and patients alike. AIM The main aim of the study is to clarify the efficacy and safety of Guizhi-Shaoyao-Zhimu decoction in patients with early RA. TRIAL REGISTRATION Chinese Clinical Trials Register ChiCTR2000036141 . Registered on 21 August 2020 (retroactively registered).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaying Shen
- Department of Rheumatism, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200021, China
| | - Qianwen Chen
- Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Guanghui Yang
- Department of Rheumatism, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200021, China.
| | - Yikun He
- Department of Rheumatism, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200021, China.
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14
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Li X, Xu H, Huang J, Luo D, Lv S, Lu X, Xiao C. Dysfunctions, Molecular Mechanisms, and Therapeutic Strategies of Regulatory T Cells in Rheumatoid Arthritis. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:716081. [PMID: 34512345 PMCID: PMC8428974 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.716081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Tregs) represent a distinct subpopulation of CD4+ T lymphocytes that promote immune tolerance and maintain immune system homeostasis. The dysfunction of Tregs is tightly associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Although the complex pathogenic processes of RA remain unclear, studies on Tregs in RA have achieved substantial progress not only in fundamental research but also in clinical application. This review discusses the current knowledge of the characterizations, functions, and molecular mechanisms of Tregs in the pathogenesis of RA, and potential therapies for these disorders are also involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoya Li
- The Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences/Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.,Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Huihui Xu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Research of Chinese Medicine on Prevention and Treatment for Major Diseases, Experimental Research Center, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Huang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Dan Luo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Changping District, Beijing, China
| | - Shuang Lv
- Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xiangchen Lu
- Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China.,School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Cheng Xiao
- Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China.,Department of Emergency, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
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15
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Zhang YM, Shen J, Zhao JM, Guan J, Wei XR, Miao DY, Li W, Xie YC, Zhao YQ. Cedrol from Ginger Ameliorates Rheumatoid Arthritis via Reducing Inflammation and Selectively Inhibiting JAK3 Phosphorylation. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2021; 69:5332-5343. [PMID: 33908779 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.1c00284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Ginger, as a food spice, is widely applied due to its extensive effects. Cedrol (CE) found in ginger is a sesquiterpene with anti-inflammatory activity. The objective of this research is to discuss the efficacy of CE on ameliorating rheumatoid arthritis (RA). CE inhibited chronic inflammation and pain in a dose-dependent manner accompanied by rapid onset and long duration. Besides, CE treatment effectively ameliorated the paw edema volume and arthritis score with no significant effect on body weight. Organ index, T-cell and B-cell proliferation, histopathology, and immunohistochemistry demonstrated that CE had immunological enhancement and attenuated RA effects. Remarkably, inhibition of phosphorylated-JAK3 protein, thereby abating the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines and inflammation-related mediators, was involved in the potential mechanism of CE efficiency through forming a hydrogen bond with ARG953 and ILE955 in the JAK3 active pocket. At the same time, the pharmacokinetic results showed that the absolute bioavailability of CE at 20, 40, and 80 mg/kg was 30.30, 23.68, and 16.11%, respectively. The current results offered clues for mastering the ameliorated RA of CE and further perfected the effective substance basis on the anti-inflammatory effect of ginger, which was beneficial for further applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Meng Zhang
- Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Jian Shen
- Zhejiang Respiratory Drugs Research Laboratory of State Food and Drug Administration of China, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310000, China
| | - Jun-Ming Zhao
- Liaoning Xinzhong Modern Medicine Company Ltd., Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Jian Guan
- Liaoning Xinzhong Modern Medicine Company Ltd., Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Xin-Rui Wei
- Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Dong-Yu Miao
- Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Wei Li
- Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Yi-Cheng Xie
- Zhejiang Respiratory Drugs Research Laboratory of State Food and Drug Administration of China, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310000, China
| | - Yu-Qing Zhao
- Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
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16
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Han Y, Wang J, Jin M, Jia L, Yan C, Wang Y. Shentong Zhuyu Decoction Inhibits Inflammatory Response, Migration, and Invasion and Promotes Apoptosis of Rheumatoid Arthritis Fibroblast-like Synoviocytes via the MAPK p38/PPAR γ/CTGF Pathway. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 2021:6187695. [PMID: 33511203 PMCID: PMC7826240 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6187695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Revised: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The current study is aimed at exploring the effect of Shentong Zhuyu Decoction on the proliferation, migration, invasion, and apoptosis of rheumatoid arthritis fibroblast-like synoviocytes (RA-FLS) and its underlying molecular mechanism. MATERIALS AND METHODS The type II collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) model was established. Subsequently, the RA-FLS were isolated from the CIA rat model and identified by immunohistochemistry. The viability, apoptosis, cell cycle, migration, and invasion of RA-FLS were detected by the cell counting kit 8 (CCK-8) assay, flow cytometry, wound-healing assay, and transwell invasion assay, respectively. The levels of MAPK p38, PPARγ, CTGF, Bcl-2, Bax, caspase-3, IL-1β, MMP-3, CDK4, and cyclin D1 were determined by qRT-PCR and western blotting, respectively. RESULTS After treatment with Shentong Zhuyu Decoction medicated serum, the OD570 value, migrative and invasive abilities, and the secretion of IL-1β, MMP-3 were remarkably decreased in RA-FLS, while the apoptosis rate was increased. Further, results showed that Shentong Zhuyu Decoction inhibited the transition from the G1 phase to S phase. Additionally, Shentong Zhuyu Decoction significantly inhibited the expression of Bcl-2, CDK4, cyclin D1, MAPK p-p38, and CTGF, whereas elevated the levels of Bax, caspase-3, and PPARγ. Importantly, the effects of Shentong Zhuyu Decoction were consistent with the trends of MAPK P38 inhibitor (SB203580) and PPARγ agonist (GW1929). CONCLUSIONS Shentong Zhuyu Decoction inhibited viability, inflammatory response, migration, invasion, and transition from the G1 phase to S phase and promoted apoptosis of RA-FLS via the MAPK p38/PPARγ/CTGF pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Han
- College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
- Department of Chinese Medicine, The Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Chinese Medicine Diagnostics, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Meng Jin
- Department of Chinese Medicine, The Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Lin Jia
- Department II of Respiratory, Hebei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Cuihuan Yan
- Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Yali Wang
- College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
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Yang L, Liu R, Fan A, Zhao J, Zhang Y, He J. Chemical Composition of Pterospermum heterophyllum Root and its Anti-Arthritis Effect on Adjuvant-Induced Arthritis in Rats via Modulation of Inflammatory Responses. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:584849. [PMID: 33362544 PMCID: PMC7759541 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.584849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune inflammatory disease without effective and beneficial drugs. Many traditional folk medicines have been proven to be effective in treating RA. Among these, the root of Pterospermum heterophyllum Hance has been widely used as a traditional remedy against RA in China, but there is no scientific basis yet. The aim of this study was to investigate for the first time the chemical compositions and therapeutic effect of P. heterophyllum on adjuvant-induced arthritis (AIA) model in rats. 73 compounds were identified from P. heterophyllum based on ultra-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-qTOF-MS/MS), and flavonoids may be partly responsible for the major anti-arthritic effect. In parallel, the P. heterophyllum extract at 160, 320, and 640 mg/kg/day were orally administered to rats for 22 days after post-administration adjuvant. The results showed that P. heterophyllum remarkably ameliorated histological lesions of the knee joint, increased body weight growth, decreased arthritis score, reduced thymus and spleen indices in model rats. Moreover, P. heterophyllum treatment persuasively downregulated the levels of rheumatoid factor (RF), C-reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6, IL-17, cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX) and matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2), and observably upregulated IL-4 and IL-10 levels in model rats. These findings suggest that P. heterophyllum has a prominent anti-RA effect on AIA rats by modulating the inflammatory responses, and supports the traditional folk use of this plant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Yang
- Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, China
| | - Ronghua Liu
- Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, China
| | - Aiguo Fan
- Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, China
| | - Jingjing Zhao
- Department of Pharmacy, Guangdong Women and Children Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yong Zhang
- Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, China
| | - Junwei He
- Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, China
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The Protective Effects of the Ethyl Acetate Part of Er MiaoSan on Adjuvant Arthritis Rats by Regulating the Function of Bone Marrow-Derived Dendritic Cells. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2020. [DOI: 10.1155/2020/8791657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Aims. The aim of this study was to evaluate the protective effects of Er Miao San (EMS) and the regulative function of bone marrow-derived dendritic cells (BMDCs) on adjuvant arthritis (AA) in rats. Methods. The ethyl acetate part of EMS (3 g/kg, 1.5 g/kg, and 0.75 g/kg) was orally administered from day 15 after immunization to day 29. The polyarthritis index and paw swelling were measured, the ankle joint pathological changes were observed using hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining, and the spleen and thymus index were determined. Moreover, T and B cell proliferation were determined using the CCK-8 assay. The expression of BMDC surface costimulatory molecules and inflammatory factors were determined using flow cytometry and ELISA kits, respectively. Results. Compared with the AA model rats, the ethyl acetate fraction of EMS obviously reduced paw swelling (from 1.0 to 0.7) and the polyarthritis index (from 12 to 9)
and improved the severity of histopathology
. The treatment using ethyl acetate fraction of EMS significantly reduced the spleen and thymus index
and inhibited T and B cell proliferation
. Moreover, EMS significantly modulated the expression of surface costimulatory molecules in BMDCs, including CD40, CD80, CD86, and major histocompatibility complex class II (MHC-II)
. The results also showed that the ethyl acetate part of EMS significant inhibited the levels of proinflammatory cytokines interleukin- (IL-) 23 tumor necrosis factor- (TNF-) α and inflammatory factor prostaglandin (PG) E2 in the supernatant of BMDCs. However, the level of anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 was significantly increased
. Conclusion. These results suggest that the ethyl acetate part of EMS has better protective effects on AA rats, probably by regulating the function of BMDCs and modulating the balance of cytokines.
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