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Tian J, Huang Y, Wu T, Huang HD, Ko KM, Zhu BT, Chen J. The Use of Chinese Yang/Qi-Invigorating Tonic Botanical Drugs/Herbal Formulations in Ameliorating Chronic Kidney Disease by Enhancing Mitochondrial Function. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:622498. [PMID: 34248614 PMCID: PMC8264145 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.622498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Mitochondrial dysfunction has been implicated as a key factor in the development of CKD. According to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) theory, many Chinese Yang/Qi-invigorating botanical drugs/herbal formulations have been shown to produce promising outcomes in the clinical management of CKD. Experimental studies have indicated that the health-promoting action of Yang/Qi invigoration in TCM is related to the up-regulation of mitochondrial energy generation and antioxidant status. Objective: In this review, we aim to test whether Chinese Yang/Qi-invigorating tonic botanical drugs/herbal formulations can provide medical benefits in CKD and its complications. And we also explore the possible involvement of mitochondrial-associated signaling pathway underlying the beneficial effects of Yang/Qi invigoration in TCM. Methods: A systematic search of "PubMed", "China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI)" and "Google Scholar" was carried out to collect all the available articles in English or Chinese related to Chinese Yang/Qi-invigorating tonic botanical drugs/herbal formulations and their effects on mitochondrial function and chronic kidney disease. Result and Discussion: The relationship between the progression of CKD and mitochondrial function is discussed. The effects of Chinese Yang/Qi-invigorating tonic botanical drugs/herbal formulations and their active ingredients, including phytosterols/triterpenes, flavonoids, and dibenzocyclooctadiene lignans, on CKD and related alterations in mitochondrial signaling pathways are also presented in this review. In the future, exploration of the possible beneficial effects and clinical studies of more Yang- and Qi-invigorating botanical drugs/herbal formulations in the prevention and/or/treatment of CKD and the molecular mechanisms relating to the enhancement of mitochondrial functions warrants further investigation. Conclusion: Given the critical role of mitochondrial function in safeguarding renal functional integrity, the enhancement of mitochondrial energy metabolism and antioxidant status in kidney tissue is likely involved in renal protection. Future studies on the biochemical and chemical basis underlying the effects of Chinese Yang/Qi-invigorating tonic botanical drugs/herbal formulations from a mitochondrial perspective will hopefully provide novel insights into the rational development of new drugs for the prevention and/or treatment of CKD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayi Tian
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Steroid Drug Discovery and Development, School of Life and Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China
- School of Life and Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yuqi Huang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Steroid Drug Discovery and Development, School of Life and Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China
- School of Life and Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China
| | - Tong Wu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Steroid Drug Discovery and Development, School of Life and Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China
- School of Life and Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China
| | - Hsien-Da Huang
- School of Life and Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China
- Warshel Institute for Computational Biology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China
| | - Kam Ming Ko
- Division of Life Science, The Hong Kong University of Science & Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - Bao Ting Zhu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Steroid Drug Discovery and Development, School of Life and Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China
- School of Life and Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jihang Chen
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Steroid Drug Discovery and Development, School of Life and Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China
- School of Life and Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China
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Zhou Y, Xu B. New insights into molecular mechanisms of "Cold or Hot" nature of food: When East meets West. Food Res Int 2021; 144:110361. [PMID: 34053554 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2021.110361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Traditional Chinese medicines are largely adopted in China and have a key importance in the world medical system. Cold-hot nature is the important characteristics of food and Chinese Materia Medica in the traditional Chinese medicine, relating to food functions in the organism. As compared to the studies on the cold and hot nature in Chinese medicine, the research studies carried out to establish the association between cold-hot nature and food are insufficient. Intending to investigate the criteria to discriminate the cold-hot nature of food and Chinese medicine scientifically, this review collected the cold-hot nature-related literature in recent 20 years in several popular databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and Science Direct. This review explored that the cold and hot natures are not only linked to the chemical components such as water, carbohydrates, lipids, and amino acids, but also correlated to the biological effects, comprising of energy metabolism, inflammation response, oxidation reaction, immune response, and cell growth and proliferation. Besides, this review further put forward the possibility that cold-hot nature of food and Chinese medicine exert different biological effects on the inflammatory response via regulating the signaling pathways viz. NF-κB and MAPK. More extensive studies are needed to consider the overall connections between both the biological effects and chemical components and how food processing affects the cold-hot nature of the food.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifan Zhou
- Food Science and Technology Program, BNU-HKBU United International College, Zhuhai, Guangdong 519087, China
| | - Baojun Xu
- Food Science and Technology Program, BNU-HKBU United International College, Zhuhai, Guangdong 519087, China.
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Li M, Chen Y, Cai Z, Teng J, Feng Q, Chen Y, Wang L, Li C, Tang BQ, Bai X. Exploring the Biochemical Basis of the Meridian Tropism Theory for the Qi-Invigorating Traditional Chinese Medicine Herb Panax ginseng. J Evid Based Integr Med 2021; 26:2515690X20983249. [PMID: 33634715 PMCID: PMC7917415 DOI: 10.1177/2515690x20983249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
We examined the effect of the Qi-invigorating Traditional Chinese Medicines (TCM) herb Panax ginseng (P.G.) on mitochondrial functions and cellular antioxidant capacity in different organs of mice. We found that the P.G. extracts had a significant effect on tissues of mice, with the generation of total adenylate pool (TAP) enhanced in all visceral tissues, but not for the brain. The mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and antioxidant capacity reflected by superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione (GSH) increased only for the meridian tissues that P.G. belongs to including Heart, Spleen and Lung. Reactive oxygen species (ROS), as a combined result of the increased energy metabolism and antioxidant capacity, varied in different organs. We concluded that: 1) the Qi-invigorating TCM herb P.G. had a significant effect on mice by enhancing TAP production in all of the visceral tissues examined, except for the brain; 2) for the meridional tissues of P.G. (Heart, Spleen and Lung), the P.G. extracts not only promoted the TAP production, but also boosted the antioxidant capacity demonstrated by the simultaneous increase in TAP, and SOD and GSH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengmei Li
- ENNOVA Institute of Life Science and Technology, ENN Group, Langfang, China
| | - Yu Chen
- ENNOVA Institute of Life Science and Technology, ENN Group, Langfang, China
| | - Zhongzhen Cai
- ENNOVA Institute of Life Science and Technology, ENN Group, Langfang, China
| | - Jie Teng
- ENNOVA Institute of Life Science and Technology, ENN Group, Langfang, China
| | - Qian Feng
- ENNOVA Institute of Life Science and Technology, ENN Group, Langfang, China
| | - Yuming Chen
- ENNOVA Institute of Life Science and Technology, ENN Group, Langfang, China
| | - Lin Wang
- ENNOVA Institute of Life Science and Technology, ENN Group, Langfang, China
| | - Caixia Li
- ENNOVA Institute of Life Science and Technology, ENN Group, Langfang, China
| | - Bruce Qing Tang
- ENNOVA Institute of Life Science and Technology, ENN Group, Langfang, China
| | - Xuemei Bai
- ENNOVA Institute of Life Science and Technology, ENN Group, Langfang, China
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4
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Chen Y, Li M, Cai Z, Chen Y, Wang L, Teng J, Feng Q, Li C, Rein G, Tang BQ, Bai X. A Preliminary Study in the Effect of <i>Astragali radix</i>, a Qi-Invigorating Herb, on Mitochondria: Insights at Cellular Level and Mouse Tissues Level. Chin Med 2020. [DOI: 10.4236/cm.2020.113007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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Chen Y, Feng Q, Li M, Cai Z, Chen Y, Wang L, Teng J, Chen Y, Wang W, Rein G, Tang BQ, Bai X. The Effect of TCM Herbs on Mitochondrial Functions: The Linkage between Qi and Mitochondria. Chin Med 2020. [DOI: 10.4236/cm.2020.114008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
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6
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Leong PK, Leung HY, Chan WM, Ko KM. Pharmacological Investigation of “Meridian Tropism” in Three “Shen” Chinese Herbs. Chin Med 2019. [DOI: 10.4236/cm.2019.104007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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Wang J, Lin F, Guo LL, Xiong XJ, Fan X. Cardiovascular Disease, Mitochondria, and Traditional Chinese Medicine. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2015; 2015:143145. [PMID: 26074984 PMCID: PMC4449907 DOI: 10.1155/2015/143145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2014] [Revised: 09/06/2014] [Accepted: 09/14/2014] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Recent studies demonstrated that mitochondria play an important role in the cardiovascular system and mutations of mitochondrial DNA affect coronary artery disease, resulting in hypertension, atherosclerosis, and cardiomyopathy. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been used for thousands of years to treat cardiovascular disease, but it is not yet clear how TCM affects mitochondrial function. By reviewing the interactions between the cardiovascular system, mitochondrial DNA, and TCM, we show that cardiovascular disease is negatively affected by mutations in mitochondrial DNA and that TCM can be used to treat cardiovascular disease by regulating the structure and function of mitochondria via increases in mitochondrial electron transport and oxidative phosphorylation, modulation of mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis, and decreases in mitochondrial ROS. However further research is still required to identify the mechanism by which TCM affects CVD and modifies mitochondrial DNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100053, China
- Clinical Medical College, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan 430065, China
| | - Fei Lin
- Clinical Medical College, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan 430065, China
| | - Li-li Guo
- Department of Cardiology, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100053, China
| | - Xing-jiang Xiong
- Department of Cardiology, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100053, China
| | - Xun Fan
- Clinical Medical College, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan 430065, China
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New insights into the chemical and biochemical basis of the "yang-invigorating" action of chinese yang-tonic herbs. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2014; 2014:856273. [PMID: 25610483 PMCID: PMC4295141 DOI: 10.1155/2014/856273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2014] [Revised: 06/07/2014] [Accepted: 06/21/2014] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
In the practice of traditional Chinese medicine, many Yang-tonic herbs have been used for retarding the decline in bodily function and delaying the onset of age-related diseases. Our earlier studies have demonstrated that Yang-invigorating herbs/formulations protect against oxidative injury in various organs and also extend the median lifespan in mice. This lifespan extension was associated with an upregulation of cellular antioxidant status including that of mitochondria whose functional capacity is also increased by “Yang-invigorating” herbs/formulations. In this paper, we propose that triterpenes and phytosterols, which are ubiquitously found in Yang-tonic herbs, may be the chemical entities responsible for enhancing mitochondrial functional and antioxidant capacity and thus the “Yang-invigorating” action. The biochemical mechanism underlying this “Yang-invigorating” action may involve a sustained production of low levels of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) secondary to an increased activity of the electron transport chain, with the possible involvement of mitochondrial uncoupling. The increase in mitochondrial functional capacity can retard the decline in bodily function during aging, whereas the mitochondrial ROS production is instrumental in eliciting a glutathione antioxidant response via redox-sensitive signaling pathways, which can delay the onset of age-related diseases.
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Wong HS, Chen JH, Leong PK, Leung HY, Chan WM, Ko KM. β-sitosterol protects against carbon tetrachloride hepatotoxicity but not gentamicin nephrotoxicity in rats via the induction of mitochondrial glutathione redox cycling. Molecules 2014; 19:17649-62. [PMID: 25361427 PMCID: PMC6271253 DOI: 10.3390/molecules191117649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2014] [Revised: 10/23/2014] [Accepted: 10/24/2014] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Previous findings have demonstrated that β-sitosterol (BSS), an active component of Cistanches Herba, protected against oxidant injury in H9c2 cardiomyocytes and in rat hearts by enhancing mitochondrial glutathione redox cycling, possibly through the intermediacy of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species production. We therefore hypothesized that BSS pretreatment can also confer tissue protection against oxidant injury in other vital organs such as liver and kidney of rats. In this study, the effects of BSS pretreatment on rat models of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) hepatotoxicity and gentamicin nephrotoxicity were investigated. The findings showed that BSS pretreatment protected against CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity, but not gentamicin nephrotoxicity in rats. The hepatoprotection afforded by BSS was associated with the improvement in mitochondrial glutathione redox status, presumably through the glutathione reductase-mediated enhancement in mitochondrial glutathione redox cycling. The hepatoprotection afforded by BSS was also accompanied by the improved mitochondrial functional ability in rat livers. The inability of BSS to protect against gentamicin nephrotoxicity was likely due to the relatively low bioavailability of BSS in rat kidneys. BSS may serve as potential mitohormetic agent for the prevention of oxidative stress-induced injury in livers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hoi-Shan Wong
- Division of Life Science, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Ji-Hang Chen
- Division of Life Science, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Pou-Kuan Leong
- Division of Life Science, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Hoi-Yan Leung
- Division of Life Science, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Wing-Man Chan
- Division of Life Science, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Kam-Ming Ko
- Division of Life Science, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China.
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An ursolic acid-enriched extract of Cynomorium songaricum protects against carbon tetrachloride hepatotoxicity and gentamicin nephrotoxicity in rats possibly through a mitochondrial pathway: A comparison with ursolic acid. J Funct Foods 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2014.01.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
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Ursolic-Acid-Enriched Herba Cynomorii Extract Protects against Oxidant Injury in H9c2 Cells and Rat Myocardium by Increasing Mitochondrial ATP Generation Capacity and Enhancing Cellular Glutathione Redox Cycling, Possibly through Mitochondrial Uncoupling. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2013; 2013:924128. [PMID: 23690863 PMCID: PMC3638637 DOI: 10.1155/2013/924128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2013] [Accepted: 03/11/2013] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Mitochondrial decay is considered to be a major contributor to aging-related diseases, including neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular disorders, and certain metabolic diseases. Therefore, the maintenance of mitochondrial functional capacity and antioxidant status should play an essential role in preventive health. Herba Cynomorii, which is one of the most potent "Yang-invigorating" Chinese tonic herbs, was found to increase mitochondrial ATP generation capacity (ATP-GC) in rat hearts ex vivo. In the present study, we demonstrated that HCY2, an active fraction of Herba Cynomorii, and its major ingredient ursolic acid (UA) could protect against hypoxia/reoxygenation-induced cell apoptosis in H9c2 cells in vitro and also against ischemia/reperfusion-induced injury in rat hearts ex vivo. The cardioprotection was associated with an increase in ATP-GC and an enhancement of glutathione redox cycling. The results suggest that UA may be one of the active ingredients responsible for the cardioprotection afforded by Herba Cynomorii, and this effect may be mediated, at least in part, by enhancement of mitochondrial functional capacity and antioxidant status, possibly through the induction of mitochondrial uncoupling.
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Wong HS, Ko KM. Herba Cistanches stimulates cellular glutathione redox cycling by reactive oxygen species generated from mitochondrial respiration in H9c2 cardiomyocytes. PHARMACEUTICAL BIOLOGY 2013; 51:64-73. [PMID: 23035909 DOI: 10.3109/13880209.2012.710242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Earlier findings demonstrated that pretreatment of Herba Cistanches [the dried whole plant of Cistanche deserticola Y.C. Ma (Orobanchaceae)], a "Yang-invigorating" Chinese tonic herb, stimulated the ATP-generation capacity (ATP-GC) in mitochondria isolated from rat heart ex vivo. The enhancement of mitochondrial ATP-GC by Herba Cistanches was associated with induction of glutathione antioxidant status and protection against ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury in rat hearts. OBJECTIVES This study investigated the relationship between enhancements in mitochondrial ATP-GC and glutathione antioxidant status in H9c2 cardiomyocytes using a semipurified fraction of Herba Cistanches (HCF1). MATERIALS AND METHODS HCF1 (10-300 ng/mL) was tested for its effects on mitochondrial ATP generation, glutathione antioxidant status and protection against oxidant injury in H9c2 cardiomyocytes and rat hearts. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION HCF1 at 30 ng/mL increased mitochondrial ATP-GC and ADP-stimulated state 3 respiration (by 50 and 100%, respectively) in H9c2 cardiomyocytes. The stimulation of mitochondrial respiration was associated with the induction of mitochondrial uncoupling (27%) and enhancement of cellular glutathione redox cycling as well as protection against hypoxia/reoxygenation (hypox/reoxy)-induced apoptosis (by 60%). While HCF1 treatment increased reactive oxygen species generation from mitochondrial respiration in H9c2 cardiomyocytes, pretreatment with antioxidants (DMTU) abrogated the HCF1-induced cellular responses and the associated cytoprotective effect. HCF1 pretreatment (1.14 and 3.41 mg/kg × 14) also protected against myocardial I/R injury in rats (by 13 and 32%), presumably mediated by the induction of glutathione antioxidant response. CONCLUSION The long-term intake of HCF1 may offer a prospect for the prevention of ischemic heart disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hoi Shan Wong
- Division of Life Science, Hong Kong University of Science & Technology Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Leong PK, Leung HY, Wong HS, Chen J, Ma CW, Yang Y, Ko KM. Long-Term Treatment with an Herbal Formula MCC Reduces the Weight Gain in High Fat Diet-Induced Obese Mice. Chin Med 2013. [DOI: 10.4236/cm.2013.43010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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Wong HS, Cheung WF, Tang WL, Ko KM. “Qi-Invigorating” Chinese Tonic Herbs (<i>Shens</i>) Stimulate Mitochondrial ATP Generation Capacity in H9c2 Cardiomyocytes <i>in Situ</i> and Rat Hearts <i>ex Vivo</i>. Chin Med 2012. [DOI: 10.4236/cm.2012.32016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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Lam PY, Wong HS, Chen J, Ko KM. A Hypothetical Anti-Aging Mechanism of “Yang-Invigorating” Chinese Tonic Herbs. Chin Med 2012. [DOI: 10.4236/cm.2012.31012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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Chen ML, Tsai SH, Ip SP, Ko KM, Che CT. Long-term treatment with a "Yang-invigorating" Chinese herbal formula, Wu-Zi-Yan-Zong-Wan, reduces mortality and liver oxidative damage in chronic alcohol-intoxicated rats. Rejuvenation Res 2010; 13:459-67. [PMID: 20583953 DOI: 10.1089/rej.2009.0985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Long-term alcohol consumption has been reported to increase oxidative stress in multiple organs and accelerate the aging process. A previous study in our laboratory has shown that Wu-Zi-Yan-Zong-Wan (WZ), a "Yang-invigorating" Chinese herbal formula, protected against ethanol-induced toxicity in HepG2 cells transfected to express human CYP2E1, presumably by enhancing mitochondrial antioxidant status and functional ability. The present study aims to investigate whether WZ extract treatment can afford protection against chronic ethanol-induced oxidative stress (a major risk factor of aging) and mortality in rats. The effect of the extract (1.8 g, 4.5 g, and 9 g raw materials/kg per day) on chronic ethanol hepatotoxicity was investigated in rats receiving steady intragastric infusion of ethanol-containing liquid diet. The results showed that long-term (42 days) herbal co-treatment protected against chronic ethanol-induced mortality and hepatotoxicity and in rats, as evidenced by decreased plasma transaminases activities. The extract also suppressed the pathological development of fatty liver, as assessed by histopathological examination and the ratio of liver weight to body weight. The hepatoprotection afforded by the extract was associated with decreases in the extents of reactive oxygen species production, lipid peroxidation, and oxidative modification of proteins, as well as the reversal of altered mitochondrial reduced glutathione level. The results suggest that the suppressive effect of WZ on chronic ethanol-induced oxidative stress and mortality may be attributed to the antioxidant action, particularly in mitochondria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-Li Chen
- School of Chinese Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, China
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Leong PK, Chen N, Chiu PY, Leung HY, Ma CW, Tang QT, Ko KM. Long-term treatment with shengmai san-derived herbal supplement (Wei Kang Su) enhances antioxidant response in various tissues of rats with protection against carbon tetrachloride hepatotoxicity. J Med Food 2010; 13:427-38. [PMID: 20192847 DOI: 10.1089/jmf.2009.1296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Wei Kang Su (WKS) is a commercial herbal product based on a Chinese herbal formula, Shengmai San. Here, we investigated the effects of long-term treatment with WKS on mitochondrial antioxidant status and functional ability, as well as heat shock protein (Hsp) 25/70 production, in various tissues of rats. WKS treatment enhanced mitochondrial antioxidant status and ATP generation capacity, as well as Hsp 25/70 production in various rat tissues. WKS treatment suppressed plasma reactive oxygen metabolite levels and protected against carbon tetrachloride hepatotoxicity in rats. Long-term WKS treatment may prevent diseases by enhancing the resistance of mitochondria to oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pou Kuan Leong
- Department of Biochemistry, Hong Kong University of Science & Technology, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
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Ko KM, Chiu PY, Leung HY, Siu AHL, Chen N, Leong EPK, Poon MKT. Long-term dietary supplementation with a yang-invigorating Chinese herbal formula increases lifespan and mitigates age-associated declines in mitochondrial antioxidant status and functional ability of various tissues in male and female C57BL/6J mice. Rejuvenation Res 2010; 13:168-71. [PMID: 20370440 DOI: 10.1089/rej.2009.0893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
To investigate whether Vigconic 28 (VI-28), a Yang-invigorating Chinese herbal formula, could affect survival of aging animals, male and female C57BL/6J mice were given a VI-28-supplemented diet (0.05 and 0.5%, wt/wt) starting at 36 weeks of age, until death. VI-28 dietary supplementation at 0.05% significantly increased median lifespans of both male and female mice as compared to controls. Survival enhancement was associated with protection against age-associated impairments in mitochondrial antioxidant status and functional ability in various tissues. In conclusion, VI-28 could retard the aging process in mice, probably by mitigating age-associated declines in mitochondrial antioxidant status and functional ability in tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kam Ming Ko
- Department of Biochemistry, the Hong Kong University of Science & Technology, Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Ho YS, So KF, Chang RCC. Anti-aging herbal medicine--how and why can they be used in aging-associated neurodegenerative diseases? Ageing Res Rev 2010; 9:354-62. [PMID: 19833234 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2009.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2009] [Revised: 10/05/2009] [Accepted: 10/06/2009] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Aging is a universal biological process that leads to progressive and deleterious changes in organisms. From ancient time, mankind has already interested in preventing and keeping ourselves young. Anti-aging study is certainly not a new research area. Nowadays, the meaning of anti-aging has been changed from simply prolonging lifespan to increasing health span, which emphasizes more on the quality of life. This is the concept of healthy aging and prevention of pathological aging, which is associated with diseases. Keeping our brain functions as in young age is an important task for neuroscientists to prevent aging-associated neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer's diseases (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD). The causes of these diseases are not fully understood, but it is believed that these diseases are affected by multiple factors. Neurodegenerative diseases can be cross-linked with a number of aging-associated conditions. Based on this, a holistic approach in anti-aging research seems to be more reasonable. Herbal medicine has a long history in Asian countries. It is believed that many of the medicinal herbs have anti-aging properties. Recent studies have shown that some medicinal herbs are effective in intervention or prevention of aging-associated neurological disorders. In this review, we use wolfberry and ginseng as examples to elaborate the properties of anti-aging herbs. The characteristics of medicinal herbs, especially their applications in different disease stages (prevention and intervention) and multi-targets properties, allow them to be potential anti-aging intervention in prevention and treatment of the aging-associated neurological disorders.
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Chen N, Chiu PY, Ko KM. Schisandrin B enhances cerebral mitochondrial antioxidant status and structural integrity, and protects against cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury in rats. Biol Pharm Bull 2008; 31:1387-91. [PMID: 18591780 DOI: 10.1248/bpb.31.1387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Schisandrin B (Sch B), a dibenzocyclooctadiene derivative isolated from the fruit of Schisandra chinensis, has been shown to enhance mitochondrial antioxidant status in liver, heart and brain tissues in rodents. Whether or not long-term Sch B treatment can protect against oxidative stress-induced cerebral damage remains unclear. In the present study, the effect of long-term Sch B treatment (1-30 mg/kg/dx15) on cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury was examined in rats. Sch B treatment protected against I/R-induced cerebral damage, as evidenced by the significant increase in the percentage of 2,3,5-triphenyl tetrazolium chloride (TTC)-stained tissues in representative brain slices, when compared with the Sch B-untreated and I/R control. The cerebroprotection was associated with an enhancement in cerebral mitochondrial antioxidant status, as assessed by the level/activity of reduced glutathione, alpha-tocopherol and Mn-superoxide dismutase, as well as the improvement/preservation of mitochondrial structural integrity, as assessed by the extents of malondialdehyde production, Ca(2+) loading and cytochrome c release, as well as the sensitivity to Ca(2+)-induced permeability transition, in control and I/R-challenged rats. In conclusion, long-term Sch B treatment could enhance cerebral mitochondrial antioxidant status as well as improve mitochondrial structural integrity, thereby protecting against I/R injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Chen
- Department of Biochemistry, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, SAR, China
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Chiu PY, Leung HY, Ko KM. Schisandrin B Enhances Renal Mitochondrial Antioxidant Status, Functional and Structural Integrity, and Protects against Gentamicin-Induced Nephrotoxicity in Rats. Biol Pharm Bull 2008; 31:602-5. [PMID: 18379049 DOI: 10.1248/bpb.31.602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Schisandrin B (Sch B), a dibenzocyclooctadiene derivative isolated from the fruit of Schisandra chinensis, has been shown to protect against oxidative damage in liver, heart and brain tissues in rodents. In the present study, the effect of long-term Sch B treatment (1-10 mg/kg/d x 15) on gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity was examined in rats. Sch B treatment protected against gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity, as evidenced by significant decreases in plasma creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels. The nephroprotection was associated with the enhancement in renal mitochondrial antioxidant status, as assessed by the level/activity of reduced glutathione, alpha-tocopherol and Mn-superoxide dismutase, as well as the improvement/preservation of mitochondrial functional and structural integrity, as assessed by the extents of ATP generation capacity, malondialdehyde production, Ca2+ loading and cytochrome c release, as well as the sensitivity to Ca2+-induced permeability transition, in control and gentamicin-intoxicated rats. In conclusion, long-term Sch B treatment could enhance renal mitochondrial antioxidant status as well as improve mitochondrial functional and structural integrity, thereby protecting against gentamicin nephrotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Po Yee Chiu
- Department of Biochemistry, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Paterson RRM. Cordyceps: a traditional Chinese medicine and another fungal therapeutic biofactory? PHYTOCHEMISTRY 2008; 69:1469-95. [PMID: 18343466 PMCID: PMC7111646 DOI: 10.1016/j.phytochem.2008.01.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 281] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2007] [Revised: 01/17/2008] [Accepted: 01/18/2008] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Traditional Chinese medicines (TCM) are growing in popularity. However, are they effective? Cordyceps is not studied as systematically for bioactivity as another TCM, Ganoderma. Cordyceps is fascinating per se, especially because of the pathogenic lifestyle on Lepidopteron insects. The combination of the fungus and dead insect has been used as a TCM for centuries. However, the natural fungus has been harvested to the extent that it is an endangered species. The effectiveness has been attributed to the Chinese philosophical concept of Yin and Yang and can this be compatible with scientific philosophy? A vast literature exists, some of which is scientific, although others are popular myth, and even hype. Cordyceps sinensis is the most explored species followed by Cordyceps militaris. However, taxonomic concepts were confused until a recent revision, with undefined material being used that cannot be verified. Holomorphism is relevant and contamination might account for some of the activity. The role of the insect has been ignored. Some of the analytical methodologies are poor. Data on the "old" compound cordycepin are still being published: ergosterol and related compounds are reported despite being universal to fungi. There is too much work on crude extracts rather than pure compounds with water and methanol solvents being over-represented in this respect (although methanol is an effective solvent). Excessive speculation exists as to the curative properties. However, there are some excellent pharmacological data and relating to apoptosis. For example, some preparations are active against cancers or diabetes which should be fully investigated. Polysaccharides and secondary metabolites are of particular interest. The use of genuine anamorphic forms in bioreactors is encouraged.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Russell M Paterson
- Institute for Biotechnology and Bioengineering (IBB), Centre of Biological Engineering, Campus de Gualtar, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.
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Chiu PY, Leung HY, Ling Siu AH, Chen N, Poon MK, Ko KM. Long-Term Treatment with a Yang-Invigorating Chinese Herbal Formula Produces Generalized Tissue Protection Against Oxidative Damage in Rats. Rejuvenation Res 2008; 11:43-62. [DOI: 10.1089/rej.2007.0577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Po Yee Chiu
- Department of Biochemistry, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Hoi Yan Leung
- Department of Biochemistry, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ada Hoi Ling Siu
- Department of Biochemistry, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Na Chen
- Department of Biochemistry, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Michel K.T. Poon
- Department of Biochemistry, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Kam Ming Ko
- Department of Biochemistry, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong SAR, China
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de Grey ADNJ. The case for prioritizing research on late-onset life-extension interventions in mammals. Rejuvenation Res 2007; 10:257-9. [PMID: 17822351 DOI: 10.1089/rej.2007.0547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Chiu PY, Leung HY, Siu AH, Poon MK, Ko KM. Schisandrin B decreases the sensitivity of mitochondria to calcium ion-induced permeability transition and protects against ischemia-reperfusion injury in rat hearts. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2007; 28:1559-65. [PMID: 17883940 DOI: 10.1111/j.1745-7254.2007.00614.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM In order to elucidate the molecular mechanism underlying the cardioprotection afforded by schisandrin B (Sch B), the effect of Sch B treatment on the sensitivity of mitochondria to Ca2+-stimulated permeability transition (PT) was investigated in rat hearts under normal and ischemia-reperfusion (I-R) conditions. RESULTS Myocardial I-R injury caused an increase in the sensitivity of mitochondria to Ca2+-stimulated PT in vitro. The enhanced sensitivity to mitochondrial PT was associated with increases in mitochondrial Ca2+ content as well as the extent of reactive oxidant species production in vitro and cytochrome c release in vivo. The cardioprotection afforded by Sch B pretreatment against I-R-induced injury was paralleled by the decrease in the sensitivity of myocardial mitochondria to Ca2+-stimulated PT, particularly under I-R conditions. CONCLUSION The results suggest that Sch B treatment increases the resistance of myocardial mitochondria to Ca2+-stimulated PT and protects against I-R-induced tissue injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Po-Yee Chiu
- Department of Biochemistry, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Poon MKT, Chiu PY, Leung HY, Siu AHL, Ko KM. A 'Yang-Invigorating' Chinese herbal formula protects against gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats. Phytother Res 2007; 22:131-3. [PMID: 17685390 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.2257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The effects of VI-28 (a Yang-invigorating Chinese herbal formula) treatment on the renal mitochondrial antioxidant system and susceptibility to gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity were investigated in rats. VI-28 treatment (80 or 240 mg/kg/day x 12) enhanced the renal mitochondrial antioxidant system, as indicated by dose-dependent increases in the level/activities of reduced glutathione, Mn-superoxide dismutase, Se-glutathione peroxidase and glutathione S-transferases. VI-28 treatment protected against nephrotoxicity induced by gentamicin administration (100 mg/kg/day x 8) and the nephroprotection was associated with an enhancement in the renal mitochondrial antioxidant system. In conclusion, VI-28 treatment enhanced the renal mitochondrial antioxidant system, thereby protecting against gentamicin nephrotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michel K T Poon
- Department of Biochemistry, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Ko KM, Leung HY. Enhancement of ATP generation capacity, antioxidant activity and immunomodulatory activities by Chinese Yang and Yin tonifying herbs. Chin Med 2007; 2:3. [PMID: 17386115 PMCID: PMC1847515 DOI: 10.1186/1749-8546-2-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2006] [Accepted: 03/27/2007] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Chinese tonifying herbs such as Herba Cistanche, Ganoderma and Cordyceps, which possess antioxidant and/or immunomodulatory activities, can be useful in the prevention and treatment of age-related diseases. Pharmacological studies on Yang and Yin tonifying herbs suggest that Yang tonifying herbs stimulate mitochondrial adenosine triphosphate (ATP) generation, presumably through the intermediacy of reactive oxidant species, leading to the enhancement of cellular/mitochondrial antioxidant status. Yin tonifying herbs, however, apart from possessing antioxidant properties, exert mainly immunomodulatory functions that may boost a weak immune system and may also suppress overreactive immune responses. The abilities of Yang and Yin Chinese tonifying herbs to enhance ATP generation and to exhibit antioxidant and/or immunomodulatory actions are the pharmacological basis for their beneficial effects on the retardation of aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kam Ming Ko
- Department of Biochemistry, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong, China
| | - Hoi Yan Leung
- Department of Biochemistry, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong, China
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