Research review on the pharmacological effects of astragaloside IV

Plant bioactive compounds driven microRNAs (miRNAs): A potential source and novel strategy targeting gene and cancer therapeutics

Irrespective of medical technology improvements, cancer ranks among the leading causes of mortality worldwide. Although numerous cures and treatments exist, creating alternative cancer therapies with fewer adverse side effects is vital. Since ancient times, plant bioactive compounds have already been used as a remedy to heal cancer. These plant bioactive compounds and their anticancer activity can also deregulate the microRNAs (miRNAs) in the cancerous cells. Therefore, the deregulation of miRNAs in cancer cells by plant bioactive compounds and the usage of the related miRNA could be a promising approach for cancer cure, mainly to prevent cancer and overcome chemotherapeutic side effect problems. Hence, this review highlights the function of plant bioactive compounds as an anticancer agent through the underlying mechanism that alters the miRNA expression in cancer cells, ultimately leading to apoptosis. Moreover, this review provides insight into using plant bioactive compounds -driven miRNAs as an anticancer agent to develop miRNA-based cancer gene therapy. They can be the potential resource for gene therapy and novel strategies targeting cancer therapeutics.

Research progress of astragaloside IV in treating acute kidney injury

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is one of the most common clinical critical illnesses, with decreased glomerular filtration rate, retention of nitrogen products, water and electrolyte disorders, and acid-base imbalance as the main clinical manifestations. Presently, there is no effective treatment for acute kidney injury, but the main treatment is to cure the primary disease, remove risk factors, maintain acid-base and water-electrolyte balance, and undergo kidney replacement. However, the mortality rate is still high. Investigations and studies showed that the mortality rate of patients with acute kidney injury in the ICU is 5-80% [1]. In recent years, Chinese medicine has been widely used in acute kidney injury treatment due to its complete dialectical system and rich experience. Astragalus is a commonly used medicine in traditional Chinese medicine to treat acute kidney injury. Astragaloside IV is the main active component of traditional Chinese medicine, Astragalus membranaceus. This article summarizes the relevant studies on treating acute kidney injury with astragaloside IV.

Astragaloside IV ameliorated neuroinflammation and improved neurological functions in mice exposed to traumatic brain injury by modulating the PERK-eIF2α-ATF4 signaling pathway

Increasing evidence suggests that endoplasmic reticulum stress (ER stress) and neuroinflammation are involved in the complex pathological process of traumatic brain injury (TBI). However, the pathological mechanisms of their interactions in TBI remain incompletely elucidated. Therefore, investigating and ameliorating neuroinflammation and ER stress post-TBI may represent effective strategies for treating secondary brain injury. Astragaloside IV (AS-IV) has been reported as a potential neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory agent in neurological diseases. This study utilized a mouse TBI model to investigate the pathological mechanisms and crosstalk of ER stress, neuroinflammation, and microglial cell morphology in TBI, as well as the mechanisms and potential of AS-IV in improving TBI. The research revealed that post-TBI, inflammatory factors IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α increased, microglial cells were activated, and the specific inhibitor of PERK phosphorylation, GSK2656157, intervened to alleviate neuroinflammation and inhibit microglial cell activation. Post-TBI, levels of ER stress-related proteins (p-PERK, p-eIF2a, ATF4, ATF6, and p-IRE1a) increased. Following AS-IV treatment, neurological dysfunction in TBI mice improved. Levels of p-PERK, p-eIF2a, and ATF4 decreased, along with reductions in inflammatory factors IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α. Changes in microglial/macrophage M1/M2 polarization were observed. Additionally, the PERK activator CCT020312 intervention eliminated the impact of AS-IV on post-TBI inflammation and ER stress-related proteins p-PERK, p-eIF2a, and ATF4. These results indicate that AS-IV alleviates neuroinflammation and brain damage post-TBI through the PERK pathway, offering new directions and theoretical insights for TBI treatment.

Astragaloside Ⅳ mediates the effect and mechanism of KPNB1 on biological behavior and tumor growth in prostate cancer

Background

and purpose Prostate cancer is an comparatively prevalent clinical malignant tumor in men, impacting the lives of millions of men globally. This study measured the expression of Karyopherin Subunit Beta 1 (KPNB1) in prostate cancer cells, and made an effort to investigate how astragaloside IV affects the biological behavior, tumor growth, and mechanism of action of prostate cancer through KPNB1.

Methods

Human prostate cancer and normal cells were obtained and KPNB1 expression levels in the two cells were determined using qPCR and WB. Prostate cancer cells were grouped according to the addition of astragaloside IV, KPNB1 inhibitor (importazole) alone and in combination. KPNB1, NF-κB, and cycle-related proteins were detected to be expressed at different levels in each group's cells by WB. MTT to assess the viability of the cells. To identify the cell cycle, use flow cytometry, and sphere formation experiment to observe sphere formation ability. Nude mice were purchased and subcutaneously inoculated with prostate cancer cells to establish a prostate cancer model, and grouped by tail vein injection of astragaloside IV and importazole. Tumor size was measured. KPNB1 and NF-κB expression in tumor tissues were detected by WB. The expression of proteins relevant to the cycle is observed by immunohistochemical methods. TUNEL was used to detect apoptosis of tissue cells.

Results

KPNB1 expression was upregulated in prostate cancer cells (P < 0.05). KPNB1, NF-κB, and cycle-related protein levels were decreased by astragaloside IV and importazole both separately and together. Decreased viability of the cells and a higher percentage of cell cycle arrest in the G0 phase, apoptosis was increased, and sphere formation was decreased (P < 0.05). In vitro implantation experiments found that the application of astragaloside IV and importazole resulted in tumor growth inhibition, decreased KPNBI, NF-κB, and cyclin expression in tumor tissues, and promoted apoptosis in tumor tissues (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Prostate cancer cells' expression of KPNB1 is downregulated by astragaloside IV, which also prevents the cells from proliferating. It offers a conceptual framework for the use of astragaloside IV in the management of prostate cancer.

Exogenous ethephon treatment on the biosynthesis and accumulation of astragaloside IV in Astragalus membranaceus Bge. Var. Mongholicus (Bge.) Hsiao

BACKGROUND

Astragaloside IV is a main medicinal active ingredient in Astragalus membranaceus Bge. var. mongholicus (Bge.) Hsiao, which is also the key biomarker of A. membranaceus quality. Ethylene has been well-documented to involve in secondary metabolites biosynthesis in plants. Nevertheless, how ethylene regulates astragaloside IV biosynthesis in A. membranaceus is still unclear. Therefore, in the present study different dosages and time-dependent exogenous application of ethephon (Eth) were employed to analyze astragaloside IV accumulation and its biosynthesis genes expression level in hydroponically A. membranaceus.

RESULTS

Exogenous 200 µmol·L- 1Eth supply is most significantly increased astragaloside IV contents in A. membranaceus when compared with non-Eth supply. After 12 h 200 µmol·L- 1 Eth treatment, the astragaloside IV contents reaching the highest content at 3 d Eth treatment(P ≤ 0.05). Moreover, After Eth treatment, all detected key genes involved in astragaloside IV synthesis were significant decrease at 3rd day(P ≤ 0.05). However, SE displayed a significant increase at the 3rd day under Eth treatment(P ≤ 0.05). Under Eth treatment, the expression level of FPS, HMGR, IDI, SS, and CYP93E3 exhibited significant negative correlations with astragaloside IV content, while expression level of SE displayed a significant positive correlation.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that exogenous Eth treatment can influence the synthesis of astragaloside IV by regulating the expression of FPS, HMGR, IDI, SS, CYP93E3 and SE. This study provides a theoretical basis for utilizing molecular strategies to enhance the quality of A. membranaceus.

Naoxintong capsule for treating cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases: from bench to bedside

Naoxintong Capsule (NXT), a renowned traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formulation, has been broadly applied in China for more than 30 years. Over decades, accumulating evidences have proven satisfactory efficacy and safety of NXT in treating cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases (CCVD). Studies have been conducted unceasingly, while this growing latest knowledge of NXT has not yet been interpreted properly and summarized comprehensively. Hence, we systematically review the advancements in NXT research, from its chemical constituents, quality control, pharmacokinetics, to its profound pharmacological activities as well as its clinical applications in CCVD. Moreover, we further propose specific challenges for its future perspectives: 1) to precisely clarify bioactivities of single compound in complicated mixtures; 2) to evaluate the pharmacokinetic behaviors of NXT feature components in clinical studies, especially drug-drug interactions in CCVD patients; 3) to explore and validate its multi-target mechanisms by integrating multi-omics technologies; 4) to re-evaluate the safety and efficacy of NXT by carrying out large-scale, multicenter randomized controlled trials. In brief, this review aims to straighten out a paradigm for TCM modernization, which help to contribute NXT as a piece of Chinese Wisdom into the advanced intervention strategy for CCVD therapy.

Detailed role of SR-A1 and SR-E3 in tumor biology, progression, and therapy

The first host defense systems are the innate immune response and the inflammatory response. Among innate immune cells, macrophages, are crucial because they preserve tissue homeostasis and eradicate infections by phagocytosis, or the ingestion of particles. Macrophages exhibit phenotypic variability contingent on their stimulation state and tissue environment and may be detected in several tissues. Meanwhile, critical inflammatory functions are played by macrophage scavenger receptors, in particular, SR-A1 (CD204) and SR-E3 (CD206), in a variety of pathophysiologic events. Such receptors, which are mainly found on the surface of multiple types of macrophages, have different effects on processes, including atherosclerosis, innate and adaptive immunity, liver and lung diseases, and, more recently, cancer. Although macrophage scavenger receptors have been demonstrated to be active across the disease spectrum, conflicting experimental findings and insufficient signaling pathways have hindered our comprehension of the molecular processes underlying its array of roles. Herein, as SR-A1 and SR-E3 functions are often binary, either protecting the host or impairing the pathophysiology of cancers has been reviewed. We will look into their function in malignancies, with an emphasis on their recently discovered function in macrophages and the possible therapeutic benefits of SR-A1 and SR-E3 targeting.

Advancements of Macrophages Involvement in Pathological Progression of Colitis-Associated Colorectal Cancer and Associated Pharmacological Interventions

Intestinal macrophages play crucial roles in both intestinal inflammation and immune homeostasis. They can adopt two distinct phenotypes, primarily determined by environmental cues. These phenotypes encompass the classically activated pro-inflammatory M1 phenotype, as well as the alternatively activated anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype. In regular conditions, intestinal macrophages serve to shield the gut from inflammatory harm. However, when a combination of genetic and environmental elements influences the polarization of these macrophages, it can result in an M1/M2 macrophage activation imbalance, subsequently leading to a loss of control over intestinal inflammation. This shift transforms normal inflammatory responses into pathological damage within the intestines. In patients with ulcerative colitis-associated colorectal cancer (UC-CRC), disorders related to intestinal inflammation are closely correlated with an imbalance in the polarization of intestinal M1/M2 macrophages. Therefore, reinstating the equilibrium in M1/M2 macrophage polarization could potentially serve as an effective approach to the prevention and treatment of UC-CRC. This paper aims to scrutinize the clinical evidence regarding Chinese medicine (CM) in the treatment of UC-CRC, the pivotal role of macrophage polarization in UC-CRC pathogenesis, and the potential mechanisms through which CM regulates macrophage polarization to address UC-CRC. Our objective is to offer fresh perspectives for clinical application, fundamental research, and pharmaceutical advancement in UC-CRC.

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

BACKGROUND

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

PURPOSE

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

METHODS

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

RESULTS

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

CONCLUSION

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

Recent progress of electrospun nanofibers as burning dressings

Burns are a global public health problem, which brings great challenges to public health and the economy. Severe burns often lead to systemic infection, shock, multiple organ failure, and even death. With the increasing demand for the therapeutic effect of burn wounds, traditional dressings have been unable to meet people's needs due to their single function and many side effects. In this context, electrospinning shows a great prospect on the way to open up advanced wound dressings that promote wound repairing and prevent infection. With its large specific surface area, high porosity, and similar to natural extracellular matrix (ECM), electrospun nanofibers can load drugs and accelerate wound healing. It provides a promising solution for the treatment and management of burn wounds. This review article introduces the concept of burn and the types of electrospun nanofibers, then summarizes the polymers used in electrospun nanofiber dressings. Finally, the drugs (plant extracts, small molecule drugs and nanoparticles) loaded with electrospun burn dressings are summarized. Some promising aspects for developing commercial electrospun burn dressings are proposed.

A systematic review of astragaloside IV effects on animal models of diabetes mellitus and its complications

Context

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the fastest-growing diseases worldwide; however, its pathogenesis remains unclear. Complications seriously affect the quality of life of patients in the later stages of diabetes, ultimately leading to suffering. Natural small molecules are an important source of antidiabetic agents.

Objective

Astragaloside IV (AS-IV) is an active ingredient of Astragalus mongholicus (Fisch.) Bunge. We reviewed the efficacy and mechanism of action of AS-IV in animal and cellular models of diabetes and the mechanism of action of AS-IV on diabetic complications in animal and cellular models. We also summarized the safety of AS-IV and provided ideas and rationales for its future clinical application.

Methods

Articles on the intervention in DM and its complications using AS-IV, such as those published in SCIENCE, PubMed, Springer, ACS, SCOPUS, and CNKI from the establishment of the database to February 2022, were reviewed. The following points were systematically summarized: dose/concentration, route of administration, potential mechanisms, and efficacy of AS-IV in animal models of DM and its complications.

Results

AS-IV has shown therapeutic effects in animal models of DM, such as alleviating gestational diabetes, delaying diabetic nephropathy, preventing myocardial cell apoptosis, and inhibiting vascular endothelial dysfunction; however, the potential effects of AS-IV on DM should be investigated.

Conclusion

AS-IV is a potential drug for the treatment of diabetes and its complications, including diabetic vascular disease, cardiomyopathy, retinopathy, peripheral neuropathy, and nephropathy. In addition, preclinical toxicity studies indicate that it appears to be safe, but the safe human dose limit is yet to be determined, and formal assessments of adverse drug reactions among humans need to be further investigated. However, additional formulations or structural modifications are required to improve the pharmacokinetic parameters and facilitate the clinical use of AS-IV.

Network pharmacology prediction, molecular docking and in vitro experiment explored the potential mechanism of Gaoyuan'an capsule in improving hypoxia tolerance

BACKGROUND

Tibetan medicine Gaoyuan'an capsule (GYAC) is widely used to prevent pulmonary edema at high altitude, but the specific mechanism has not been explored. In this study, we analyzed the mechanism of GYAC in hypoxia tolerance, and provided a new idea for the prevention and treatment of altitude disease.

METHODS

The effective components and corresponding targets of GYAC were screened out by the Chinese herbal medicine network database, and the key targets of hypoxia tolerance were retrieved by Genecards, OMIM and PubMed database. Cytoscape 3.7.2 was used to construct GYAC ingredient-target-hypoxia tolerance-related target network. GO function annotation and KEGG enrichment analysis were performed to predict the pathways in which target genes may be involved, and molecular docking was used to verify the binding ability of the compound to target genes. In vitro, the above results were further verified by molecular experiment.

RESULTS

We found that GYAC can improve hypoxia tolerance by regulating various target genes, including IL6, IFNG, etc. The main regulatory pathways were HIF-1 signaling pathway. Molecular docking showed that the affinity between luteolin and target genes (IL6, IFNG) were better. In vitro, we observed that hypoxia can inhibit cell viability and promote apoptosis of H9C2 cell. And hypoxia can promote the expression of LDH. After the addition of luteolin, the decrease of cell viability, the increase of cell apoptosis, LDH release and the decrease of mitochondrial membrane potential were inhibited. Besides, inflammatory related factors (IL-6, IL-10, IL-2, IFNG and VEGFA) expression were also inhibited hypoxic cell models.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of network pharmacology and molecular docking showed that luteolin, a monomeric component of GYAC, played a role in hypoxia tolerance through a variety of target genes, such as IL6, IFNG. What's more, we have discovered that luteolin can reduce the inflammatory response in cardiac myocytes, thereby alleviating mitochondrial damage, and ultimately enhancing the hypoxia tolerance of H9C2 cardiomyocytes.

Astragaloside IV restrains pulmonary fibrosis progression via the circ_0008898/miR-211-5p/HMGB1 axis

Pulmonary Fibrosis (PF) is a fatal lung disease with complicated pathogenesis. Astragaloside IV (ASV) has been discovered to alleviate PF progression, and the potential molecular mechanism of ASV in the development of PF need to be further clarified. Bleomycin (BLM) was used to construct PF in vivo model. Expression levels of circ_0008898, miR-211-5p, high mobility group protein B1 (HMGB1), alpha smooth muscle Actin (α-SMA) and Collagen I were examined by Quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and western blot. Cell survival was analyzed using Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) and EdU (5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine) assay. The invasion abilities were investigated by transwell assay. The levels of inflammatory factors were tested via using Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The relationship between circ_0008898 or HMGB1 and miR-211-5p was identified by dual-luciferase reporter assay. The results showed that ASV attenuated BLM-induced pulmonary fibrosis in vivo. In vitro study, ASV alleviated TGF-β1-induced fibrogenesis in HFL1 cells. Circ_0008898 was increased in TGF-β1-induced HFL1 cells. ASV-induced impacts were abrogated by circ_0008898 overexpression in TGF-β1-induced HFL1 cells. Mechanistically, circ_0008898 competitively bound to miR-211-5p to increase the expression of its target HMGB1. MiR-211-5p deficiency rescued ASV-mediated effects in TGF-β1-induced HFL1 cells. In addition, HMGB1 overexpression partially overturned circ_0008898 interference-induced impacts in HFL1 cells upon TGF-β1 treatment. In conclusion, our work manifested that ASV hindered PF process by mediating the circ_0008898/miR-211-5p/HMGB1 network.

Astragaloside IV Mitigated Diabetic Nephropathy by Restructuring Intestinal Microflora and Ferroptosis

SCOPE

To investigate the underlying mechanism of Astragaloside IV (AS-IV) in ameliorating diabetic nephropathy (DN) by regulating intestinal microbiota ecology and intestinal mucosal barrier.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Genetically db/db mice are used to establish DN mouse model to monitor the therapeutic effects of AS-IV and fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) against DN. Supplementation with AS-IV dramatically attenuates several clinical indicators of DN in db/db mice. In addition, AS-IV markedly improves intestinal barrier function, modifies intestinal permeability, and reduces inflammation. Moreover, AS-IV treatment remarkably improves intestinal dysbiosis in db/db mice, characterized by an elevated abundance of Akkermansia, Ligilactobacillus, and Lactobacillus, indicating the fundamental role of the microbiome in DN progression. Furthermore, FMT derived from AS-IV-treated db/db mice is potentially efficient in antagonizing renal dysfunction, rebalancing gut microbiota, and improving intestinal permeability in recipient db/db mice. AS-IV-enriched Akkermansia muciniphila dramatically alleviates DN and intestinal mucosal barrier dysfunction in db/db mice. Intriguingly, AS-IV intervention dramatically diminishes ferroptosis in the kidney and colon tissues. CONCLUSION : Intestinal microbiome alterations and ferroptosis modulation by AS-IV may play instrumental roles in this mechanism, providing compelling evidence for the role of the gut-renal axis in DN.

Effects of plant natural products on metabolic-associated fatty liver disease and the underlying mechanisms: a narrative review with a focus on the modulation of the gut microbiota

Metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is a chronic liver disease characterized by the excessive accumulation of fat in hepatocytes. However, due to the complex pathogenesis of MAFLD, there are no officially approved drugs for treatment. Therefore, there is an urgent need to find safe and effective anti-MAFLD drugs. Recently, the relationship between the gut microbiota and MAFLD has been widely recognized, and treating MAFLD by regulating the gut microbiota may be a new therapeutic strategy. Natural products, especially plant natural products, have attracted much attention in the treatment of MAFLD due to their multiple targets and pathways and few side effects. Moreover, the structure and function of the gut microbiota can be influenced by exposure to plant natural products. However, the effects of plant natural products on MAFLD through targeting of the gut microbiota and the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. Based on the above information and to address the potential therapeutic role of plant natural products in MAFLD, we systematically summarize the effects and mechanisms of action of plant natural products in the prevention and treatment of MAFLD through targeting of the gut microbiota. This narrative review provides feasible ideas for further exploration of safer and more effective natural drugs for the prevention and treatment of MAFLD.

New Insights into Mechanisms Traditional Chinese Medicine for Allergic Rhinitis by Regulating Inflammatory and Oxidative Stress Pathways

Allergy rhinitis (AR) is becoming more common and has serious medical and societal consequences. Sneezing, paroxysmal nasal blockage, nasal itching, mucosal edema, coughing, and rhinorrhea are symptoms of this type I allergic immunological illness. Immunoglobulin E-mediated inflammation is the cause of it. Because AR is prone to recurrent attacks, extended medication therapy may impair its effectiveness. In addition to negatively affecting the patients' physical health, this can also negatively impact their mental health. During AR development, there are inflammatory and oxidative stress responses that are linked to problems in a number of signal transduction pathways. By using the terms "allergic rhinitis", "traditional Chinese medicine", "inflammation", and "oxidative stress", we screened for pertinent research published over the previous five years in databases like PubMed. We saw that NF-KB, TLR, IL-33/ST2, PI3K/AKT, MAPK, and Nrf2 are some of the most important inflammatory and oxidative stress pathways in AR. Studies have revealed that antioxidant and anti-inflammatory therapy reduced the risk of AR and was therapeutic; however, the impact of the therapy varies widely. The Chinese medical system places a high value on traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), which has been there for virtually all of China's 5000-year history. By influencing signaling pathways related to inflammation and oxidative stress, Chinese herbal medicine and its constituent compounds have been shown to prevent allergic rhinitis. This review will focus on this evidence and provide references for clinical treatment and scientific research applications.

Preclinical Investigations on Anti-fibrotic Potential of Long-Term Oral Therapy of Sodium Astragalosidate in Animal Models of Cardiac and Renal Fibrosis

In traditional Chinese medicine, Radix Astragali has played a vital role in treating progressive fibrotic diseases. One of its main active components, astragaloside IV, is a promising anti-fibrotic treatment despite its extremely low bioavailability. Our study aimed to optimize sodium astragalosidate (SA) by salt formation to improve solubility and oral absorption for anti-fibrotic therapy in vivo. Isoproterenol-induced myocardial fibrosis rat models and obese BKS-db mice presenting diabetic kidney fibrosis were used in this study. Daily oral administration of SA (20 mg/kg) for 14 days ameliorated cardiac fibrosis by reducing collagen accumulation and fibrosis-related inflammatory signals, including TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6. In db/db mice, SA (5,10, and 20 mg/kg per day for 8 weeks) dose-dependently alleviated lipid metabolism impairment and renal dysfunction when administered orally. Furthermore, Western blot and immunohistochemistry analyses demonstrated that SA treatment inhibited renal fibrosis by suppressing TGF-β1/Smads signaling. Taken together, our findings provide the oral-route medication availability of SA, which thus might offer a novel lead compound in preclinical trial-enabling studies for developing a long-term therapy to treat and prevent fibrosis.

Natural products as pharmacological modulators of mitochondrial dysfunctions for the treatment of diabetes and its complications: An update since 2010

Diabetes, characterized as a well-known chronic metabolic syndrome, with its associated complications pose a substantial and escalating health and healthcare challenge on a global scale. Current strategies addressing diabetes are mainly symptomatic and there are fewer available curative pharmaceuticals for diabetic complications. Thus, there is an urgent need to identify novel pharmacological targets and agents. The impaired mitochondria have been associated with the etiology of diabetes and its complications, and the intervention of mitochondrial dysfunction represents an attractive breakthrough point for the treatments of diabetes and its complications. Natural products (NPs), with multicenter characteristics, multi-pharmacological activities and lower toxicity, have been caught attentions as the modulators of mitochondrial functions in the therapeutical filed of diabetes and its complications. This review mainly summarizes the recent progresses on the potential of 39 NPs and 2 plant-extracted mixtures to improve mitochondrial dysfunction against diabetes and its complications. It is expected that this work may be useful to accelerate the development of innovative drugs originated from NPs and improve upcoming therapeutics in diabetes and its complications.

Therapeutic potential of traditional Chinese medicine for interstitial lung disease

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is a chronic lung dysfunction disease with a poor prognosis and poor recovery. The clinically used therapeutic drugs, such as glucocorticoids and immunosuppressants, have no significant therapeutic effect and are accompanied with severe side effects. In recent years, considerable progress has been made in exploring and applying natural herb components for treating ILD. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) possesses innate, non-toxic characteristics and offers advantages in preventing and treating pulmonary ailments. However, a comprehensive study of TCM on ILD therapy has not yet been reviewed.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

This review aimed to provide a comprehensive summary of the monomer components, total extracts, and prescriptions of TCM for ILD therapy, elucidating their molecular mechanisms to serve as a reference in treating ILD.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The literature information was searched in the PubMed, Web of Science databases. The search keywords included 'interstitial lung disease', 'lung fibrosis' or 'pulmonary fibrosis', and 'traditional Chinese medicine', 'traditional herbal medicine', or 'herb medicine'.

RESULTS

The active components of single herbs, such as alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, phenols, and quinones, have potential therapeutic effects on ILD. The active extracts and prescriptions were also summarized and analyzed. The herbs, Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch. (Gancao), Astragalus membranaceus Fisch. Bunge. (Huangqi) and Angelicasinensis (Oliv.) Diels (Danggui), play significant roles in the treatment of ILD. The mechanisms involve the inhibition of inflammatory factor release, anti-oxidative injury, and interference with collagen production, etc. CONCLUSION: This review examines the therapeutic potential of TCM for ILD and elucidates its molecular mechanisms, demonstrating that mitigating inflammation and oxidative stress, modulating the immune system, and promoting tissue repair are efficacious strategies for ILD therapy. The depth research will yield both theoretical and practical implications.

Astragaloside IV (ASIV) Mediates Endothelial Progenitor Cell (EPC) Exosomal LINC01963 to Inhibit Pyroptosis and Oxidative Stress in High Glucose-impaired Endothelial Cells

BACKGROUND

Hyperglycemia is widespread in the world's population, increasing the risk of many diseases. This study aimed to explore the regulatory effect and mechanism of astragaloside IV (ASIV)-mediated endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) exosomal LINC01963 in endothelial cells (HUVECs) impaired by high glucose.

METHODS

Morphologies of exosomes were observed by light microscope and electron microscope. Immunofluorescence was used to identify EPCs and detect the expressions of caspase-1. LINC01963 was detected by quantitative reverse transcription PCR. NLRP3, ASC, and caspase-3 were detected by Western Blot. Nanoparticle tracking analysis was carried out to analyze the exosome diameter. High-throughput sequencing was applied to screen target lncRNAs. The proliferation of endothelial cells was measured by cell counting kit-8 assay. The apoptosis level of HUVECs was detected by flow cytometry and TdT-mediated dUTP Nick-End labeling. The levels of IL- 1β, IL-18, ROS, SOD, MDA, and LDH were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

RESULTS

ASIV could promote the secretion of the EPC exosome. LINC01963 was obtained by high-throughput sequencing. It was observed that high glucose could inhibit the proliferation, reduce the level of SOD, the expression of NLRP3, ASC, and caspase- 1, increase the levels of IL-1β, IL-18, ROS, MDA, and LDH, and promote apoptosis of HUVECs. Whereas LINC01963 could inhibit the apoptosis of HUVECs, the increase the expression of NLRP3, ASC, and caspase-1, and decrease the levels of IL-1β, IL-18, ROS, MDA, and LDH.

CONCLUSION

EPCs exosomal LINC01963 play an inhibitory role in high glucoseinduced pyroptosis and oxidative stress of HUVECs. This study provides new ideas and directions for treating hyperglycemia and researching exosomal lncRNAs.

Phytochemicals as treatment for allergic asthma: Therapeutic effects and mechanisms of action

BACKGROUND

Allergic asthma is an inflammatory disease caused by the immune system's reaction to allergens, inflammation and narrowing of the airways, and the production of more than normal mucus. One of the main reasons is an increased production of inflammatory cytokines in the lungs that leads to the appearance of symptoms of asthma, including inflammation and shortness of breath. On the other hand, it has been proven that phytochemicals with their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties can be useful in improving allergic asthma.

PURPOSE

Common chemical treatments for allergic asthma include corticosteroids, which have many side effects and temporarily relieve symptoms but are not a cure. Therefore, taking the help of natural compounds to improve the quality of life of asthmatic patients can be a valuable issue that has been evaluated in the present review.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

In this study, three databases (Scopus, PubMed, and Cochrane) with the keywords: allergic asthma, phytochemical, plant, and herb were evaluated. The primary result was 5307 articles. Non-English, repetitive, and review articles were deleted from the study.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Finally, after carefully reading the articles, 102 were included in the study (2006-2022). The results of this review state that phytochemicals suppress the inflammatory pathways via inhibition of inflammatory cytokines production/secretion, genes, and proteins involved in the inflammation process, reducing oxidative stress indicators and symptoms of allergic asthma, such as cough and mucus production in the lungs.

CONCLUSION

With their antioxidant effects, this study concluded that phytochemicals suppress cytokines and other inflammatory indicators and thus can be considered an adjunctive treatment for improving allergic asthma.

Recent pharmacological advances in the treatment of cardiovascular events with Astragaloside IV

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of death and disability globally. A wide range of CVDs have been reported, each of which diverges significantly, exhibiting sophisticated types of pathogenesis (e.g., inflammatory, oxidative stress, and disorders in cardiomyocyte metabolism). Compared with conventional treatments in modern medicine, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) can exhibit comparative advantages in the treatment of CVDs. TCM can be utilized to develop effective strategies for addressing the challenges of CVD, with fewer side effects and higher therapeutic efficiency. Astragaloside IV (AS-IV) has been confirmed as one of the major active ingredients found in Astragalus membranaceus (a Chinese herbal medicine that has been extensively employed clinically for the treatments of CVDs). Since recent studies have shown that AS-IV in CVD treatments has achieved promising results, the substance has aroused great attention and further discussions in the field. The present review aims to summarize the recent pharmacological advances in employing AS-IV in the treatment of CVDs.

Astragaloside IV inhibits AOM/DSS-induced colitis-associated tumorigenesis via activation of PPARγ signaling in mice

BACKGROUND

Colitis-associated colorectal cancer (CAC) is a severe complication of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), resulting from long-term inflammation in the intestines. The primary cause of CAC is the imbalance of oxidative metabolism in intestinal cells, triggered by excessive reactive oxygen (ROS) and nitrogen (NO) species production due to prolonged intestinal inflammation. This imbalance leads to genomic instability caused by DNA damage, eventually resulting in the development of intestinal cancer. Previous studies have demonstrated that astragaloside IV is effective in treating dextran sulfate sodium salt (DSS)-induced colitis, but there is currently no relevant research on its efficacy in treating CAC.

METHODS

To investigate the effect of astragaloside IV against CAC and the underlying mechanism, C57 mice were treated with (20, 40, 80 mg/kg) astragaloside IV while CAC was induced by intraperitoneal injection of 10 mg/kg azoxymethane (AOM) and ad libitum consumption of 2% dextran sulfate sodium salt (DSS). We re-verified the activating effects of astragaloside IV on PPARγ signaling in IEC-6 cells, which were reversed by GW9662 (the PPARγ inhibitor).

RESULTS

Our results showed that astragaloside IV significantly improved AOM/DSS-induced CAC mice by inhibiting colonic shortening, preventing intestinal mucosal damage, reducing the number of tumors and, the expression of Ki67 protein. In addition, astragaloside IV could activate PPARγ signaling, which not only promoted the expression of Nrf2 and HO-1, restored the level of SOD, CAT and GSH, but also inhibited the expression of iNOS and reduced the production of NO in the intestine and IEC-6 cells. And this effect could be reversed by GW9662 in vitro. Astragaloside IV thus decreased the level of ROS and NO in the intestinal tract of mice, as well as reduced the damage of DNA, and therefore inhibited the occurrence of CAC.

CONCLUSION

Astragaloside IV can activate PPARγ signaling in intestinal epithelial cells and reduces DNA damage caused by intestinal inflammation, thereby inhibiting colon tumourigenesis. The novelty of this study is to use PPARγ as the target to inhibit DNA damage to prevent the occurrence of CAC.

Research progress on the mechanism of astragaloside IV in the treatment of asthma

Asthma is a common chronic respiratory disease, and its treatment is a core problem and challenge in clinical practice. Glucocorticoids (GCs) are the first-line therapy for the treatment of asthma. Local and systemic adverse reactions caused by GCs create obstacles to the treatment of asthma. Therefore, the research target is to find a new, safe, and effective therapeutic medicine at present. Natural products are an important source for treating asthma with low cost and low toxicity. Astragaloside IV (AS-IV) is an active ingredient of traditional Chinese medicine Astragalus mongholicus Bunge. Previous studies have indicated that AS-IV plays a therapeutic role in the treatment of asthma by inhibiting airway inflammation and remodeling the airway, and by regulating immunity and neuroendocrine function (Fig. 1) . It has a variety of biological characteristics such as multi-target intervention, high safety, and good curative effect. This article reviews the specific mechanism of AS-IV for the treatment of asthma to provide references for subsequent research.

Network pharmacology and in vitro experimental verification to reveal the mechanism of Astragaloside IV against kidney ischemia-reperfusion injury

Ischemic acute kidney injury (AKI) is a prevalent disorder among hospitalized patients worldwide. Astragaloside IV (AS-IV) has been shown to protect against ischemic AKI. However, the specific effects and mechanisms of AS-IV on alleviating kidney ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury remain unclear. The objective of this research was to elucidate the regulatory targets and mechanisms through which AS-IV protects kidney I/R injury. A combination of network pharmacology, molecular docking, molecular dynamics (MD) simulation, pharmacodynamic study and Western blot were employed to explore the underlying mechanisms. Network pharmacology revealed that ferroptosis was a potential mechanism of AS-IV against kidney I/R injury. Molecular docking and MD simulations demonstrated strong binding affinity between the GPX4/SLC7A11 and AS-IV. The experimental verification demonstrated that AS-IV improved cell proliferation, decreased the level of ROS and Fe2+, and increased the expressions of GPX4 and SLC7A11 as same as Ferrostatin-1 in OGD/R-injured HUVECs. In conclusion, AS-IV had a significant inhibition on ferroptosis in kidney I/R injury, providing a new perspective for drug development on kidney I/R injury. Definitely, further exploration in vivo is necessary to fully understand whether AS-IV alleviates kidney I/R injury through inhibiting endothelial ferroptosis.

Effects of astragaloside IV on glucocorticoid-induced avascular necrosis of the femoral head via regulating Akt-related pathways

We investigated the role of astragaloside IV (AS-IV) in preventing glucocorticoid-induced avascular necrosis of the femoral head (ANFH) and the underlying molecular mechanisms. Network pharmacology was used to predict the molecular targets of AS-IV. Molecular dynamic simulations were performed to explore the binding mechanism and interaction mode between AS-IV and Akt. Rat models of glucocorticoid-induced ANFH with AS-IV intervention were established, and osteogenesis, angiogenesis, apoptosis and oxidative stress were evaluated before and after blocking the PI3K/Akt pathway with LY294002. The effects of glucocorticoid and AS-IV on bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells and human umbilical vein endothelial cells incubated with and without LY294002 were determined. Downregulated p-Akt expression could be detected in the femoral heads of glucocorticoid-induced ANFH patients and rats. AS-IV increased trabecular bone integrity and vessel density of the femoral head in the model rats. AS-IV increased Akt phosphorylation and upregulated osteogenesis-, angiogenesis-, apoptosis- and oxidative stress-related proteins and mRNA and downregulated Bax, cleaved caspase-3 and cytochrome c levels. AS-IV promoted human umbilical vein endothelial cell migration, proliferation and tube formation ability; bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell proliferation; and osteogenic differentiation under glucocorticoid influence. AS-IV inhibited apoptosis. LY294002 inhibited these effects. AS-IV prevented glucocorticoid-induced ANFH by promoting osteogenesis and angiogenesis via the Akt/Runx2 and Akt/HIF-1α/VEGF pathways, respectively, and suppressing apoptosis and oxidative stress via the Akt/Bad/Bcl-2 and Akt/Nrf2/HO-1 pathways, respectively.

Chitosan/Polylactic Acid Nanofibers Containing Astragaloside IV as a New Biodegradable Wound Dressing for Wound Healing

The ideal wound dressing should adequately protect the wound from bacterial infection and provide a suitable healing environment for the wound. Thus, we prepared a biodegradable functional nanofiber dressing with good antibacterial and biocompatibility by electrospinning technology. The average diameter of the dressing was 354 ± 185 nm, and the porosity was 93.27%. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed that the dressing was smooth without beading. It was also characterized by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The wettability and water vapor permeability of the dressing were tested; the results showed that the dressing had good wettability and permeability. The ability of drug release indicates that continuous release over a period of time is beneficial to wound healing. Finally, the antibacterial effect and in vivo pharmacodynamic evaluation of AS/CS/PLA nanofiber dressing were studied; the result showed that it had significant antibacterial activity and the ability to promote wound healing.

Role of autophagy in the pathogenesis and regulation of pain

Pain is a ubiquitous and highly concerned clinical symptom, usually caused by peripheral or central nervous injury, tissue damage, or other diseases. The long-term existence of pain can seriously affect daily physical function and quality of life and produce great torture on the physiological and psychological levels. However, the complex pathogenesis of pain involving molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways has not been fully elucidated, and managing pain remains highly challenging. As a result, finding new targets to pursue effective and long-term pain treatment strategies is required and urgent. Autophagy is an intracellular degradation and recycling process that maintains tissue homeostasis and energy supply, which can be cytoprotective and is vital in maintaining neural plasticity and proper nervous system function. Much evidence has shown that autophagy dysregulation is linked to the emergence of neuropathic pain, such as postherpetic neuralgia and cancer-related pain. Autophagy has also been connected to pain caused by osteoarthritis and lumbar disc degeneration. It is worth noting that in recent years, studies on traditional Chinese medicine have also proved that several traditional Chinese medicine monomers involve autophagy in the mechanism of pain relief. Therefore, autophagy can serve as a potential regulatory target to provide new ideas and inspiration for pain management.

Could Cyclosiversioside F Serve as a Dietary Supplement to Prevent Obesity and Relevant Disorders?

Obesity is the basis of numerous metabolic diseases and has become a major public health issue due to its rapidly increasing prevalence. Nevertheless, current obesity therapeutic strategies are not sufficiently effective, so there is an urgent need to develop novel anti-obesity agents. Naturally occurring saponins with outstanding bio-activities have been considered promising drug leads and templates for human diseases. Cyclosiversioside F (CSF) is a paramount multi-functional saponin separated from the roots of the food-medicinal herb Astragali Radix, which possesses a broad spectrum of bioactivities, including lowering blood lipid and glucose, alleviating insulin resistance, relieving adipocytes inflammation, and anti-apoptosis. Recently, the therapeutic potential of CSF in obesity and relevant disorders has been gradually explored and has become a hot research topic. This review highlights the role of CSF in treating obesity and obesity-induced complications, such as diabetes mellitus, diabetic nephropathy, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Remarkably, the underlying molecular mechanisms associated with CSF in disease therapy have been partially elucidated, especially PI3K/Akt, NF-κB, MAPK, apoptotic pathway, TGF-β, NLRP3, Nrf-2, and AMPK, with the aim of promoting the development of CSF as a functional food and providing references for its clinical application in obesity-related disorders therapy.

Using UPLC-LTQ-Orbitrap-MS and HPLC-CAD to Identify Impurities in Cycloastragenol, Which Is a Pre-Clinical Candidate for COPD

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a highly prevalent disease that has become the third leading cause of death worldwide. Cycloastragenol (CAG), which is the genuine sapogenin of the main active triterpene saponins in Astragali radix, is a bioavailable pre-clinical candidate for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and it was investigated in our previous study. In order to progress medical research, it was first efficiently produced on a 2.5-kg scale via Smith degradation from astragaloside IV (AS-IV). Simultaneously, since the impurity profiling of a drug is critical for performing CMC documentation in pre-clinical development, a study on impurities was carried out. As these structures do not contain chromophores and possess weak UV absorption characteristics, HPLC-CAD and UPLC-LTQ-Orbitrap-MS were employed to carry out the quality control of the impurities. Then, column chromatography (CC), preparative thin-layer chromatography (PTLC), and crystallization led to the identification of 15 impurities from CAG API. Among these impurities, compounds 1, 4, 9, 10, 14, and 15 were elucidated via spectroscopic analysis, and 2-3, 5-8, and 11-13 were putatively identified. Interestingly, the new compounds 9 and 14 were rare 10, 19-secocycloartane triterpenoids that displayed certain anti-inflammatory activities against LPS-induced lymphocyte cells and CSE-induced MLE-12 cells. Additionally, a plausible structural transformation pathway of the degradation compounds from CAG or AS IV was proposed. The information obtained will provide a material basis to carry out the quality control and clinical safety assurance of API and related prescriptions. Reasonable guidance will also be provided regarding the compounds with weak UV absorption characteristics.

Noninvasive and Microinvasive Nanoscale Drug Delivery Platforms for Hard Tissue Engineering

Bone tissue plays a crucial role in protecting internal organs and providing structural support and locomotion of the body. Treatment of hard tissue defects and medical conditions due to physical injuries, genetic disorders, aging, metabolic syndromes, and infections is more often a complex and drawn out process. Presently, dealing with hard-tissue-based clinical problems is still mostly conducted via surgical interventions. However, advances in nanotechnology over the last decades have led to shifting trends in clinical practice toward noninvasive and microinvasive methods. In this review article, recent advances in the development of nanoscale platforms for bone tissue engineering have been reviewed and critically discussed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the advantages and disadvantages of noninvasive and microinvasive methods for treating medical conditions related to hard tissue regeneration and repair.

Astragaloside IV protects LO2 cells from oxidative damage caused by radiation-induced bystander effect through Akt/Nrf2 pathway

Background

The protective effects of astragaloside IV (ASIV) on various diseases are well known, but its potential impact on radiation-induced bystander effect (RIBE) has remained unclear.

Objective

This study aimed to explore the protective mechanism of ASIV against oxidative damage caused by RIBE in LO2 cells.

Methods

To construct the RIBE model, the conditioned medium from HepG2 cells irradiated with radiation was transferred to nonirradiated LO2 cells. LY294002, a commonly used phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Akt pathway inhibitor, was added to LO2 cells 1 h before exposing HepG2 cells to radiation. LO2 cells were then collected for analyses after RIBE exposure.

Results

The study found that ASIV significantly improved cell proliferation and promoted the recovery of mitochondrial membrane potential while reducing the rate of apoptosis. Western blot analyses demonstrated that ASIV upregulated B-cell lymphoma 2 and downregulated B-cell lymphoma 2-related X protein and cleaved-caspase 3. Measurement of reactive oxygen species, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and malondialdehyde levels showed that ASIV effectively restored the oxidative stress state induced by RIBE. Additionally, immunofluorescence and western blots analyses confirmed that ASIV enhanced the translocation of Nrf2 to the nucleus and activated downstream nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate: quinine oxidoreductase 1 and heme oxygenase 1. Importantly, Akt pathway inhibitor repressed ASIV-induced activation of Nrf2 and its protective effect against RIBE.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that ASIV protects LO2 cells against oxidative damage caused by RIBE through activation of the Akt/Nrf2 pathway.

Astragaloside in cancer chemoprevention and therapy

ABSTRACT

Tumor chemoprevention and treatment are two approaches aimed at improving the survival of patients with cancers. An ideal anti-tumor drug is that which not only kills tumor cells but also alleviates tumor-causing risk factors, such as precancerous lesions, and prevents tumor recurrence. Chinese herbal monomers are considered to be ideal treatment agents due to their multi-target effects. Astragaloside has been shown to possess tumor chemoprevention, direct anti-tumor, and chemotherapeutic drug sensitization effects. In this paper, we review the effects of astragaloside on tumor prevention and treatment and provide directions for further research.

Astragaloside IV ameliorates cognitive impairment and protects oligodendrocytes from antioxidative stress via regulation of the SIRT1/Nrf2 signaling pathway

Subcortical ischemic vascular dementia (SIVD), which is caused by chronic cerebral hypoperfusion, is a common subtype of vascular dementia, accompanied by white matter damage and cognitive impairment. Currently, there are no effective treatments for this condition. Oxidative stress is a key factor in the pathogenesis of white matter damage. Astragaloside IV (AS-IV), one of the main active components of astragaloside, has antioxidant properties and promotes cognitive improvement; however, its effect on SIVD and its potential mechanism remain unknown. We aimed to clarify whether AS-IV had a protective effect against SIVD injury caused by right unilateral common carotid artery occlusion and the underlying mechanism. The results showed that AS-IV treatment improved cognitive function and white matter damage, inhibited oxidative stress and glial cells activation, and promoted the survival of mature oligodendrocytes after chronic cerebral hypoperfusion. Moreover, the protein expression levels of NQO1, HO-1, SIRT1 and Nrf2 were increased by AS-IV treatment. However, pre-treatment with EX-527, a SIRT1-specific inhibitor, eliminated the beneficial effects of AS-IV. These results demonstrate that AS-IV plays a neuroprotective role in SIVD by suppressing oxidative stress and increasing the number of mature oligodendrocytes via the modulation of SIRT1/Nrf2 signaling. Our results support AS-IV as a potential therapeutic agent for SIVD.

Natural products in attenuating renal inflammation via inhibiting the NLRP3 inflammasome in diabetic kidney disease

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is a prevalent and severe complications of diabetes and serves as the primary cause of end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) globally. Increasing evidence indicates that renal inflammation is critical in the pathogenesis of DKD. The nucleotide - binding oligomerization domain (NOD) - like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome is the most extensively researched inflammasome complex and is considered a crucial regulator in the pathogenesis of DKD. The activation of NLRP3 inflammasome is regulated by various signaling pathways, including NF- κB, thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP), and non-coding RNAs (ncRNA), among others. Natural products are chemicals extracted from living organisms in nature, and they typically possess pharmacological and biological activities. They are invaluable sources for drug design and development. Research has demonstrated that many natural products can alleviate DKD by targeting the NLRP3 inflammasome. In this review, we highlight the role of the NLRP3 inflammasome in DKD, and the pathways by which natural products fight against DKD via inhibiting the NLRP3 inflammasome activation, so as to provide novel insights for the treatment of DKD.

Renal protective effects of astragalus root in rat models of chronic kidney disease

BACKGROUND

Astragalus root is a commonly used herb in traditional Chinese medicine. Although renoprotective effects have been reported in some clinical and experimental studies, the details remain unknown.

METHODS

We used 5/6 nephrectomized rats as chronic kidney disease (CKD) models. At 10 weeks, they were divided into four groups, namely, CKD, low-dose astragalus (AR400), high-dose astragalus (AR800), and sham groups. At 14 weeks, they were sacrificed for the evaluation of blood, urine, mRNA expression in the kidney, and renal histopathology.

RESULTS

Kidney dysfunction was significantly improved following astragalus administration (creatinine clearance: sham group; 3.8 ± 0.3 mL/min, CKD group; 1.5 ± 0.1 mL/min, AR400 group; 2.5 ± 0.3 mL/min, AR800 group; 2.7 ± 0.1 mL/min). Blood pressure, urinary albumin, and urinary NGAL levels were significantly lower in the astragalus-treated groups than those in the CKD group. Excretion of urinary 8-OHdG, an oxidative stress marker, and intrarenal oxidative stress were lower in the astragalus-treated groups than those in the CKD group. Furthermore, the mRNA expression of NADPH p22 phox, NADPH p47 phox, Nox4, renin, angiotensin II type 1 receptor, and angiotensinogen in the kidney was lower in the astragalus-treated groups compared with the CKD group.

CONCLUSION

This study suggests that astragalus root slowed CKD progression, possibly through the suppression of oxidative stress and the renin-angiotensin system.

Biotransformation and bioaccessibility of active ingredients from Radix Astragali by Poria cocos during solid-state fermentation and in vitro digestion and antioxidant activity evaluation

Radix Astragali is one of the most famous and frequently used health food supplements and herbal medicines. Among more than 227 components of Radix Astragali, Astragaloside IV (AG IV) is famous functional compound and is commonly used as a quality marker for Radix Astragali. However, the relatively low content of AG IV in Radix Astragali (< 0.04%, w/w) severely limits its application. The purpose of this study is to improve the biotransformation of AG IV and its bioaccessibility during in vitro digestion by Poria cocos solid fermenting Radix Astragali. The optimum fermentation conditions were as follows: Inoculation amount 8 mL; fermentation time 10 d; fermentation humidity 90%. Through fermentation, the content of AG IV was increased from 384.73 to 1986.49 μg/g by 5.16-fold. After in vitro digestion, the contents of genistin, calycosin, formononetin, AG IV, Astragaloside II (AG II) and total flavonoids in fermented Radix Astragali (FRA) of enteric phase II (ENTII) were 34.52 μg/g, 207.32 μg/g, 56.76 μg/g, 2331.46 μg/g, 788.31 μg/g, 3.37 mg/g, which were 2.08-fold, 2.51-fold, 1.05-fold, 8.62-fold, 3.22-fold and 1.50-fold higher than those of control, respectively. The Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of FRA showed rough surface and porous structure. The DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging rate of FRA were higher than those of control. These results showed that the Poria cocos solid fermentation could increase the content of the AG IV in Radix Astragali and improve the bioaccessibility and antioxidant activity of Radix Astragali, which is providing new ideas for future development and utilization of Radix Astragali.

Systems pharmacology reveals the mechanism of Astragaloside IV in improving immune activity on cyclophosphamide-induced immunosuppressed mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Myelosuppression, also known as bone marrow suppression (BMS), is a pathological phenomenon of the decrease in the production of blood cells and further lead to immune homeostasis disorder. Astragalus mongholicus Bunge (AM, checked with The World Flora Online, http://www.worldfloraonline.org, updated on January 30, 2023) is a traditional Chinese medicine with efficacy of tonifying Qi and strengthening body immunity in thousands of years of clinical practice in China. Astragaloside IV (AS-IV) is a major active ingredient of AM, which plays an important role in regulating immune system through different ways.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study was aimed to investigate the protective effect and mechanism of AS-IV on macrophages in vitro and cyclophosphamide (CTX)-induced immunosuppressive mice in vivo, and to provide experimental basis for the prevention and treatment of AS-IV in myelosuppression.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Based on network pharmacology and molecular docking technology, the core targets and signaling pathways of saponins of AM against myelosuppression were screened. And then, the immunoregulatory effect of AS-IV on RAW264.7 cells was investigated by cellular immune activity and cellular secretion analysis in vitro. In this way, the effects of AS-IV on the main potential targets of HIF-1α/NF-κB signaling pathway were analyzed by qRT-PCR and Western blot methods. Furthermore, comprehensive analysis of the effects of AS-IV against CTX-induced mice were conducted on the basis of immune organs indices analysis, histopathological analysis, hematological analysis, natural killer cell activity analysis and spleen lymphocyte transformation activity analysis. In order to further verify the relationship between active ingredients and action targets, drug inhibitor experiments were finally conducted.

RESULTS

AS-IV, as a potential anti-myelosuppressive compound, was screened by systematic pharmacological methods to act on target genes including HIF1A and RELA together with the HIF-1α/NF-κB signaling pathway. Further studies by molecular docking technology showed that AS-IV had good binding activity with HIF1A, RELA, TNF, IL6, IL1B and other core targets. Besides, cellular and animal experiments validation results showed that AS-IV could enhance the migration and phagocytosis of RAW264.7 cells, and protect the immune organs such as spleen and thymus together with bone tissues from damage. By this means, immune cell function including spleen natural killer cell and lymphocyte transformation activity were also enhanced. In addition, white blood cells, red blood cells, hemoglobin, platelets and bone marrow cells were also significantly improved in the suppressed bone marrow microenvironment (BMM). In kinetic experiments, the secretion of cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β were increased, and IL-10, TGF-β1 were decreased. The key regulatory proteins such as HIF-1α, NF-κB, PHD3 in HIF-1α/NF-κB signaling pathway were also regulated in the results of upregulated expression of HIF-1α, p-NF-κB p65 and PHD3 at the protein or mRNA level. Finally, the inhibition experiment results suggested that AS-IV could significantly improve protein response in immunity and inflammation such as HIF-1α, NF-κB and PHD3.

CONCLUSION

AS-IV could significantly relieve CTX-induced immunosuppressive and might improve the immune activity of macrophages by activating HIF-1α/NF-κB signaling pathway, and provide a reliable basis for the clinical application of AS-IV as a potentially valuable regulator of BMM.

Fufang shenhua tablet, astragali radix and its active component astragaloside IV: Research progress on anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory mechanisms in the kidney

Background: Given the limited treatment options available for kidney disease, a significant number of patients turn to alternative therapies, including traditional Chinese medicine. Among these therapies, the Fufang Shenhua tablet (SHT) has garnered attention for its effectiveness in addressing the most common deficiency of Qi and Yin in chronic glomerulonephritis. Notably, the sovereign drug of SHT is Astragali Radix (AR), with the most abundant and effective component being Astragaloside IV (AS-IV). AS-IV has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, and it is extensively used in treating kidney diseases. Nevertheless, the molecular mechanisms underlying its action are numerous and intricate, and a comprehensive understanding is yet to be achieved.

Aim of the review: Thus, we have thoroughly examined the existing research and outlined the advancements made in investigating the anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory mechanisms of SHT, AR and its active component AS-IV, in relation to kidney health. This serves as a dependable foundation for conducting more comprehensive investigations, evaluating efficacy, and making further improvements in the future.

Materials and methods: We conducted a comprehensive literature search utilizing multiple globally recognized databases, including Web of Science, Google Scholar, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Wiley, ACS, Springer, and CNKI. The search keywords used in this study were “Fufang Shenhua tablet,” “Astragali Radix,” “Astragaloside IV,” and “Anti-inflammatory” or “Immunity.”

Results: The mechanism of inflammation inhibition by SHT, AR and its active component AS-IV is mainly related to the signaling pathways such as NF-κB, TLRs, PI3K/AKT, Wnt/β-catenin, and JAK-STAT. Immunomodulation exerts not only activating, stimulating, and regulating effects on macrophages and dendritic cells, but also on immune organs, T-lymphocytes, B-lymphocytes, and a myriad of cytokines. Moreover, the SHT, AR and its active component AS-IV also demonstrate regulatory effects on renal cells, including glomerular mesangial cells, tubular epithelial cells, and podocytes.

Conclusion: To summarize, SHT, AR and its active component AS-IV, exhibit notable therapeutic effects in kidney-related ailments, and their molecular mechanisms for anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects have been extensively explored. However, further standard clinical trials are necessary to evaluate their safety and efficacy in the adjunctive treatment of kidney-related diseases. Moreover, in-depth studies of unverified chemical components and regulatory mechanisms in SHT are required. It is our belief that with continued research, SHT, AR and its active component AS-IV are poised to pave the way for enhancing therapeutic outcomes in kidney-related ailments.

Astragaloside IV mitigates cerebral ischaemia-reperfusion injury via inhibition of P62/Keap1/Nrf2 pathway-mediated ferroptosis

Cerebral ischaemia-reperfusion injury (CIRI) is a critical component of ischaemic stroke pathogenesis. Ferroptosis contributes to and aggravates CIRI, whereas the P62/Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1)/NF-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway exerts neuroprotective effects. Astragaloside IV (AST IV) is the primary active ingredient of Astragalus, an herb with anti-CIRI properties used in traditional Chinese medicine. However, the mechanism of its anti-CIRI action is unclear. This study examined the mechanisms underlying the anti-CIRI action of AST IV using a combination of in vitro and in vivo approaches. We established an erastin-induced ferroptosis model, oxygen and glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R)-induced model in SH-SY5Y cells, and middle cerebral artery occlusion-reperfusion (MCAO/R) model using Sprague-Dawley rats. The extent of cell damage and brain damage in rats, ferroptosis indicator changes, and expression of P62, Keap1, and Nrf2 were investigated. AST IV inhibited erastin-induced ferroptosis, attenuated OGD/R-induced cell damage, and ameliorated sensorimotor dysfunction and injury in the MCAO/R model. Further, AST IV promoted Nrf2 activation, inhibited ferroptosis, and reduced cell damage. Notably, these effects were inhibited by ML385, an Nrf2 inhibitor. AST IV increased the P62 and Nrf2 levels and decreased the Keap1 levels. P62 silencing reduced the effects of AST IV on the P62/Keap1/Nrf2 pathway and ferroptosis. Our findings suggest that AST IV mitigates CIRI by inhibiting ferroptosis via activation of the P62/Keap1/Nrf2 pathway. This study provides an important scientific basis and direction for the application and research of AST IV and provides new potential targets and ideas for the study of the pathological mechanism of CIRI.

Senolytics: opening avenues in drug discovery to find novel therapeutics for Parkinson's disease

Aging is one of the major risk factors for most neurodegenerative disorders including Parkinson's disease (PD). More than 10 million people are affected with PD worldwide. One of the predominant factors accountable for progression of PD pathology could be enhanced accumulation of senescent cells in the brain with the progress of age. Recent investigations have highlighted that senescent cells can ignite PD pathology via increased oxidative stress and neuroinflammation. Senolytics are agents that kill senescent cells. This review mainly focuses on understanding the pathological connection between senescence and PD, with emphasis on some of the recent advances made in the area of senolytics and their evolution to potential clinical candidates for future pharmaceuticals against PD.

Astragaloside IV attenuates lipopolysaccharide induced liver injury by modulating Nrf2-mediated oxidative stress and NLRP3-mediated inflammation

Aims and objectives

Sepsis-associated liver injury is a common public health problem in intensive care units. Astragaloside IV (AS-IV) is an active component extracted from the Chinese herb Astragalus membranaceus, and has been shown to have anti-oxidation, anti-inflammation, and anti-apoptosis properties. The research aimed to investigate the protective effect of AS-IV in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced liver injury.

Methods

Male C57BL/6 wild-type mice (6-8 week-old) were intraperitoneally injected with 10 mg/kg LPS for 24 h and AS-IV (80 mg/kg) 2 h before the LPS injection. Biochemical and histopathological analyses were carried out to assess liver injury. The RT-qPCR analyzed the mRNA expression of IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6. The mRNA and protein expression of SIRT1, nuclear Nrf2, Nrf2, and HO-1 were measured by Western blotting.

Results

Serum alanine/aspartate aminotransferases (ALT/AST) analysis, malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) were showed that AS-IV protected against LPS-induced hepatotoxicity. The protection afforded by AS-IV was confirmed by pathological examination of the liver. Pro-inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin- 1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and interleukin 6 (IL-6), were observed to be reversed by AS-IV after exposure to LPS. Western blot analysis demonstrated that AS-IV enhanced the expression levels of Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1), nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), and heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1).

Conclusions

AS-IV protects against LPS-induced Liver Injury and Inflammation by modulating Nrf2-mediated oxidative stress and NLRP3-mediated inflammation.

Integrated transcriptomics, proteomics and metabolomics to identify biomarkers of astragaloside IV against cerebral ischemic injury in rats

The herb Astragali Radix is a food-medicine herb. A major component of Astragali Radix, astragaloside IV (AS-IV), has neuroprotective effects in IS, but its mechanisms are not well understood. Our research used a transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) rat model for longitudinal multi-omics analyses of the side of the brain affected by ischemia. Based on transcriptomic and proteomic analysis, we found that 396 differential expression targets were up-regulated and 114 differential expression targets were down-regulated. A total of 117 differential metabolites were identified based on metabonomics. Finally, we found 8 hub genes corresponding to the compound-reaction-enzyme-gene network using the Metscape plug-in for Cytoscape 3.7.1. We found that the related key metabolites were 3,4-dihydroxy-L-phenylalanine, 2-aminomuconate semialdehyde, (R)-3-hydroxybutanoate, etc., and the affected pathways were tyrosine metabolism, tryptophan metabolism, butanoate metabolism, purine metabolism, etc. We further validated these targets using 4D-PRM proteomics and found that seven targets were significantly different, including Aprt, Atic, Gaa, Galk1, Glb1, Me2, and Hexa. We aimed to uncover the mechanism of AS-IV in the treatment of ischemic brain injury through a comprehensive strategy combining transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics.

A reference-grade genome assembly for Astragalus mongholicus and insights into the biosynthesis and high accumulation of triterpenoids and flavonoids in its roots

Astragalus membranaceus var. mongholicus (AMM), a member of the Leguminosae, is one of the most important medicinal plants worldwide. The dried roots of AMM have a wide range of pharmacological effects and are a traditional Chinese medicine. Here, we report the first chromosome-level reference genome of AMM, comprising nine pseudochromosomes with a total size of 1.47 Gb and 27 868 protein-encoding genes. Comparative genomic analysis reveals that AMM has not experienced an independent whole-genome duplication (WGD) event after the WGD event shared by the Papilionoideae species. Analysis of long terminal repeat retrotransposons suggests a recent burst of these elements at approximately 0.13 million years ago, which may explain the large size of the AMM genome. Multiple gene families involved in the biosynthesis of triterpenoids and flavonoids were expanded, and our data indicate that tandem duplication has been the main driver for expansion of these families. Among the expanded families, the phenylalanine ammonia-lyase gene family was primarily expressed in the roots of AMM, suggesting their roles in the biosynthesis of phenylpropanoid compounds. The functional versatility of 2,3-oxidosqualene cyclase genes in cluster III may play a critical role in the diversification of triterpenoids in AMM. Our findings provide novel insights into triterpenoid and flavonoid biosynthesis and can facilitate future research on the genetics and medical applications of AMM.

Astragaloside IV attenuates myocardial dysfunction in diabetic cardiomyopathy rats through downregulation of CD36-mediated ferroptosis

Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM), one of the major complications of type 2 diabetes, is a leading cause of heart failure and death in advanced diabetes. Although there is an association between DCM and ferroptosis in cardiomyocytes, the internal mechanism of ferroptosis leading to DCM development remains unknown. CD36 is a key molecule in lipid metabolism that mediates ferroptosis. Astragaloside IV (AS-IV) confers various pharmacological effects such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory. In this study, we demonstrated that AS-IV was able to recover the dysfunction of DCM. In vivo experiments showed that AS-IV ameliorated myocardial injury and improved contractile function, attenuated lipid deposition, and decreased the expression level of CD36 and ferroptosis-related factors in DCM rats. In vitro experiments showed that AS-IV decreased CD36 expression and inhibited lipid accumulation and ferroptosis in PA-induced cardiomyocytes. The results demonstrated that AS-IV decreased cardiomyocyte injury and myocardial dysfunction by inhibiting ferroptosis mediated by CD36 in DCM rats. Therefore, AS-IV regulated the lipid metabolism of cardiomyocytes and inhibited cellular ferroptosis, which may have potential clinical value in DCM treatment.

Traditional Chinese medicine monomers: Targeting pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells proliferation to treat pulmonary hypertension

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a complex multifactorial disease characterized by increased pulmonary vascular resistance and pulmonary vascular remodeling (PVR), with high morbidity, disability, and mortality. The abnormal proliferation of pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMCs) is the main pathological change causing PVR. At present, clinical treatment drugs for PH are limited, which can only improve symptoms and reduce hospitalization but cannot delay disease progression and reduce survival rate. In recent years, numerous studies have shown that traditional Chinese medicine monomers (TCMs) inhibit excessive proliferation of PASMCs resulting in alleviating PVR through multiple channels and multiple targets, which has attracted more and more attention in the treatment of PH. In this paper, the experimental evidence of inhibiting PASMCs proliferation by TCMs was summarized to provide some directions for the future development of these mentioned TCMs as anti-PH drugs in clinical.

Astragaloside IV alleviates sepsis-induced muscle atrophy by inhibiting the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

Muscle atrophy occurs in patients with sepsis and increases mortality and disability. Remission of muscle atrophy may improve the quality of life in patients with sepsis. Astragaloside IV (ASIV) has been shown to have excellent anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic effects and to reduce organ damage caused by sepsis. However, the effect of ASIV on sepsis-induced muscle atrophy has not been reported. Therefore, this study explored the pharmacological effects and mechanisms of ASIV in sepsis-induced muscle atrophy.

METHODS

Cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) was used to establish a mouse model of sepsis and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated C2C12 myotubes. After administration of ASIV, the body weight, tibialis anterior (TA) and gastrocnemius muscle weight and fiber cross-sectional area of the mice were measured. The diameter of myotubes was observed by immunofluorescence staining. ELISA was used to assess inflammatory factors in plasma and cell culture supernatants. RT-PCR and Western blotting were used to detect the expression of MuRF1, Atrogin-1 and TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway components in TA and C2C12 myotubes.

RESULTS

Our study found that ASIV reduced serum inflammatory factors and improved survival in septic mice. ASIV alleviated muscle mass reduction, myofiber cross-sectional area reduction, and C2C12 myotube atrophy by inhibiting the expression of the E3 ubiquitin ligases MuRF1 and atrogin-1. In addition, we observed that ASIV inhibited TGF-β1/Smad signaling. Inhibition of the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway partly blocked the anti-muscle atrophy effect of ASIV.

CONCLUSION

ASIV can alleviate sepsis-induced muscle atrophy, which may be related to the inhibition of the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway.

The Molecular Basis of the Anti-Inflammatory Property of Astragaloside IV for the Treatment of Diabetes and Its Complications

Astragali Radix is a significant traditional Chinese medication, and has a long history of clinical application in the treatment of diabetes mellitus (DM) and its complications. AS-IV is an active saponin isolated from it. Modern pharmacological study shows that AS-IV has anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and immunomodulatory activities. The popular inflammatory etiology of diabetes suggests that DM is a natural immune and low-grade inflammatory disease. Pharmacological intervention of the inflammatory response may provide promising and alternative approaches for the prevention and treatment of DM and its complications. Therefore, this article focuses on the potential of AS-IV in the treatment of DM from the perspective of an anti-inflammatory molecular basis. AS-IV plays a role by regulating a variety of anti-inflammatory pathways in multiple organs, tissues and target cells throughout the body. The blockade of the NF-κB inflammatory signaling pathway may be the central link of AS-IV's anti-inflammatory effect, resulting in a reduction in the tissue structure and function damage stimulated by inflammatory factors. In addition, AS-IV can delay the onset of DM and its complications by inhibiting inflammation-related oxidative stress, fibrosis and apoptosis signals. In conclusion, AS-IV has therapeutic prospects from the perspective of reducing the inflammation of DM and its complications. An in-depth study on the anti-inflammatory mechanism of AS-IV is of great significance for the effective use of Chinese herbal medicine and the promotion of its status and influence on the world.

Integrating Network Pharmacology and Experimental Validation to Explore the Pharmacological Mechanism of Astragaloside IV in Treating Bleomycin-Induced Pulmonary Fibrosis

Purpose

Our study aims to reveal the pharmacological mechanism of Astragaloside IV in the treatment of pulmonary fibrosis(PF) through network pharmacology and experimental validation.

Methods

We first determined the in vivo anti-pulmonary fibrosis effect of Astragaloside IV by HE, MASSON staining, and lung coefficients, then used network pharmacology to predict the signaling pathways and molecularly docked key pathway proteins, and finally validated the results by in vivo and in vitro experiments.

Results

In in vivo experiments, we found that Astragaloside IV improved body weight (P < 0.05), increased lung coefficients (P < 0.05), and reduced lung inflammation and collagen deposition in mice with pulmonary fibrosis. The network pharmacology results showed that Astragaloside IV had 104 cross-targets with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, and the results of KEGG enrichment analysis indicated that cellular senescence could be an important pathway for Astragaloside IV in the treatment of pulmonary fibrosis. Astragaloside IV also bound well to senescence-associated proteins, according to molecular docking results. The results of both in vivo and in vitro experiments showed that Astragaloside IV significantly inhibited senescence protein markers such as P53, P21, and P16 and delayed cellular senescence (P < 0.05). In in vivo experiments, we also found that Astragaloside IV reduced the production of SASPs (P < 0.05), and in in vitro experiments, Astragaloside IV also reduced the production of ROS. In addition, by detecting epithelial-mesenchymal transition(EMT)-related marker protein expression, we also found that Astragaloside IV significantly inhibited the development of EMT in both in vivo and in vitro experiments (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Our research found that Astragaloside IV could alleviate bleomycin-induced PF by preventing cellular senescence and EMT.

SUV39H1 Inhibits Angiogenesis in Limb Ischemia of Mice

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD), characterized by atherosclerosis of the peripheral arteries or even amputation, has threatened public life and health. However, the underlying mechanism remains largely obscure. SUV39H1, a histone methyltransferase, could specifically methylate lysine 9 of histone H3 and act as a repressor in transcriptional activity. The study aimed to investigate the role of SUV39H1 in limb ischemia. C57BL/6 male mice were randomly divided into Sham or Model groups to investigate the expression of SUV39H1 in the ischemic limbs. Then, pharmaceutical inhibition or genetic deletion of SUV39H1 in the limb ischemia mice model was performed to confirm its effect on limb ischemia. The blood perfusion was quantified by laser speckle contrast imaging (LSCI). Capillary density and muscle edema were measured by CD31 immunohistochemical staining and HE staining. The expressions of SUV39H1 and Catalase were confirmed by western blot. Transcriptome sequencing of siSUV39H1 in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) was used to explore the regulation mechanism of SUV39H1 on angiogenesis. The results showed that SUV39H1 was highly expressed in the ischemic muscle tissue of the mice. Pharmaceutical inhibition or genetic deletion of SUV39H1 significantly improved blood perfusion, capillary density, and angiogenesis in ischemic muscle tissue. Cell experiments showed that SUV39H1 knockdown promoted cell migration, tube formation, and mitochondrial membrane potential in endothelial cells under oxidative stress. The transcriptome sequencing results unmasked mechanisms of the regulation of angiogenesis induced by SUV39H1. Finally, Salvianolic acid B and Astragaloside IV were identified as potential drug candidates for the improvement of endothelial function by repressing SUV39H1. Our study reveals a new mechanism in limb ischemia. Targeting SUV39H1 could improve endothelial dysfunction and thus prevent limb ischemia.