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Jiang C, Chen Z, Xiong H, Yang X, Liao W, Chen G, Huang C, Zhu G, Yu H, Ma L. Lycium barbarum berry extract improves female fertility against aging-related oxidative stress in the ovary. Food Funct 2024; 15:9779-9795. [PMID: 39224078 DOI: 10.1039/d4fo02720e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Reproductive aging in female mammals is characterized by ovarian senescence, leading to a significant fertility decline. Lycium barbarum berry, or goji berry, is a food and medicine that appears in various formulas for treating infertility in traditional Chinese medicine. We investigated the function of an aqueous extract of Lycium barbarum berry (LB extract) to improve health status, fertility, and offspring development during female aging. Aged female mice were supplemented with LB extract, and its effects on fertility, locomotor activity, and offspring development were assessed. The results demonstrated that LB extract significantly increased pregnancy and live birth rates in naturally aged female mice. It also effectively improved aged animals' locomotor activity. Moreover, LB extract promoted the growth and development of offspring delivered from the aged animals and reduced the offspring's anxiety. During aging, fertility-related hormones gradually decline. However, the decline of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and estradiol (E2) in the serum of aged mice was restored by LB extract supplementation. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that the levels of oxidation and the inflammatory IL-6 in intra-ovarian cells were reduced by LB extract, while the antioxidant-associated proteins peroxiredoxin 4 (PRDX4) and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) were increased. Bioinformatics analysis revealed a decline in egg PRDX4 expression with age across various species. This suggests that the antioxidant function protected by LB extract through PRDX4 may consistently promote fertility enhancement by improving ovarian function across different species. Importantly, LB extract did not induce significant adverse effects on aged female mice and their offspring. These findings highlight the potential of LB as a protective agent against ovarian oxidative stress, which preserves ovarian function and improves fertility rates in naturally senescent females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenyu Jiang
- Dr. Neher's Biophysics Laboratory for Innovative Drug Discovery, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Avenida Wai Long, Taipa, Macau, China.
| | - Ziyu Chen
- Dr. Neher's Biophysics Laboratory for Innovative Drug Discovery, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Avenida Wai Long, Taipa, Macau, China.
| | - Haoming Xiong
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Avenida Wai Long, Taipa, Macau, China
| | - Xiao Yang
- Dr. Neher's Biophysics Laboratory for Innovative Drug Discovery, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Avenida Wai Long, Taipa, Macau, China.
| | - Weilin Liao
- Dr. Neher's Biophysics Laboratory for Innovative Drug Discovery, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Avenida Wai Long, Taipa, Macau, China.
| | - Geer Chen
- Dr. Neher's Biophysics Laboratory for Innovative Drug Discovery, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Avenida Wai Long, Taipa, Macau, China.
| | - Chen Huang
- Dr. Neher's Biophysics Laboratory for Innovative Drug Discovery, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Avenida Wai Long, Taipa, Macau, China.
| | - Guoyuan Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Avenida Wai Long, Taipa, Macau, China
| | - Haijie Yu
- Dr. Neher's Biophysics Laboratory for Innovative Drug Discovery, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Avenida Wai Long, Taipa, Macau, China.
| | - Lijuan Ma
- Dr. Neher's Biophysics Laboratory for Innovative Drug Discovery, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Avenida Wai Long, Taipa, Macau, China.
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Estrada-Camerena E, López-Rubalcava C, Vega-Rivera NM, González-Trujano ME. Antidepressant- and Anxiolytic-like Effects of Pomegranate: Is It Acting by Common or Well-Known Mechanisms of Action? PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 13:2205. [PMID: 39204642 PMCID: PMC11358894 DOI: 10.3390/plants13162205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2024] [Revised: 08/01/2024] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
The pharmacological effects of pomegranates have been described considering metabolic aspects such as hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic activities. The pomegranate extract has activity on the central nervous system (CNS) as a natural antidepressant and anxiolytic. The chemical composition of pomegranates is complex since the bioactive compounds are multiple secondary metabolites that have been identified in the extracts derived from the peel, seed, flowers, leaves, or in their combination; so, it has not been easy to identify an individual compound as responsible for its observed pharmacological properties. From this point of view, the present review analyzes the effects of crude extracts or fractions of pomegranates and their possible mechanisms of action concerning antidepressant- and anxiolytic-like effects in animal models. Serotonin receptors, estrogen receptors, the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ), or monoamine oxidase enzymes, as well as potent antioxidant and neuroplasticity properties, have been described as possible mediators involved in the antidepressant- and anxiolytic-like behaviors after pomegranate treatment. The pharmacological effects observed on the CNS in experimental models associated with a specific stress level suggest that pomegranates could simultaneously modulate the stress response by activating several targets. For the present review, scientific evidence was gathered to integrate it and suggest a possible pathway for mediators to be involved in the mechanisms of action of the pomegranate's antidepressant- and anxiolytic-like effects. Furthermore, the potential benefits are discussed on comorbid conditions with anxiety and depression, such as perimenopause transition and pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika Estrada-Camerena
- Laboratorio de Neuropsicofarmacología, Dirección de Neurociencias, Instituto Nacional de Psiquiatría “Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz”, Mexico City 14370, Mexico;
| | - Carolina López-Rubalcava
- Laboratorio 17, Departamento de Farmacobiología, Centro de Investigación y Estudios Avanzados, Sede Sur, Mexico City 14330, Mexico;
| | - Nelly Maritza Vega-Rivera
- Laboratorio de Neuropsicofarmacología, Dirección de Neurociencias, Instituto Nacional de Psiquiatría “Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz”, Mexico City 14370, Mexico;
| | - María Eva González-Trujano
- Laboratorio de Neurofarmacología de Productos Naturales, Dirección de Neurociencias, Instituto Nacional de Psiquiatría “Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz”, Mexico City 14370, Mexico;
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Zhang L, Zhang E, Wei Y, Zheng G. Phylogenetic analysis and divergence time estimation of Lycium species in China based on the chloroplast genomes. BMC Genomics 2024; 25:569. [PMID: 38844874 PMCID: PMC11155141 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-024-10487-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lycium is an economically and ecologically important genus of shrubs, consisting of approximately 70 species distributed worldwide, 15 of which are located in China. Despite the economic and ecological importance of Lycium, its phylogeny, interspecific relationships, and evolutionary history remain relatively unknown. In this study, we constructed a phylogeny and estimated divergence time based on the chloroplast genomes (CPGs) of 15 species, including subspecies, of the genus Lycium from China. RESULTS We sequenced and annotated 15 CPGs in this study. Comparative analysis of these genomes from these Lycium species revealed a typical quadripartite structure, with a total sequence length ranging from 154,890 to 155,677 base pairs (bp). The CPGs was highly conserved and moderately differentiated. Through annotation, we identified a total of 128-132 genes. Analysis of the boundaries of inverted repeat (IR) regions showed consistent positioning: the junctions of the IRb/LSC region were located in rps19 in all Lycium species, IRb/SSC between the ycf1 and ndhF genes, and SSC/IRa within the ycf1 gene. Sequence variation in the SSC region exceeded that in the IR region. We did not detect major expansions or contractions in the IR region or rearrangements or insertions in the CPGs of the 15 Lycium species. Comparative analyses revealed five hotspot regions in the CPG: trnR(UCU), atpF-atpH, ycf3-trnS(GGA), trnS(GGA), and trnL-UAG, which could potentially serve as molecular markers. In addition, phylogenetic tree construction based on the CPG indicated that the 15 Lycium species formed a monophyletic group and were divided into two typical subbranches and three minor branches. Molecular dating suggested that Lycium diverged from its sister genus approximately 17.7 million years ago (Mya) and species diversification within the Lycium species of China primarily occurred during the recent Pliocene epoch. CONCLUSION The divergence time estimation presented in this study will facilitate future research on Lycium, aid in species differentiation, and facilitate diverse investigations into this economically and ecologically important genus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Ecological Protection of Agro-Pastoral Ecotones in the Yellow River Basin, College of Biological Science & Engineering, National Ethnic Affairs Commission of the People's Republic of China, North Minzu University, Yinchuan, 750021, China
| | - Erdong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Ecological Protection of Agro-Pastoral Ecotones in the Yellow River Basin, College of Biological Science & Engineering, National Ethnic Affairs Commission of the People's Republic of China, North Minzu University, Yinchuan, 750021, China
| | - Yuqing Wei
- Key Laboratory of Ecological Protection of Agro-Pastoral Ecotones in the Yellow River Basin, College of Biological Science & Engineering, National Ethnic Affairs Commission of the People's Republic of China, North Minzu University, Yinchuan, 750021, China
| | - Guoqi Zheng
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Protection and Utilization of Special Biological Resources in the Western, School of Life Science, Ningxia University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, 750021, China.
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Oh MR, Jung SJ, Chae SW, Park BH, Lee SO. Lycium chinense Miller fruit extract lowers liver enzyme levels in subjects with mild hepatic dysfunction: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Eur J Nutr 2023; 62:1415-1425. [PMID: 36629892 DOI: 10.1007/s00394-022-03075-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE In our previous study, we showed that Lycium chinense Miller fruit extract (LFE) exerted hepatoprotective effects in mice. In the current study, we examined the effect of LFE on liver enzyme levels in subjects with mild hepatic dysfunction. METHODS A total of 90 subjects, aged 19 to 70 years old, with abnormal alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels, were randomly placed into either an LFE (n = 45) treatment group or a placebo group (n = 45). During the 12-week clinical trial, subjects in each group received either LFE or placebo capsules, and were instructed to take four tablets per day (1760 mg/day). The primary outcome of the study was the changes of ALT and γ-glutamyltransferase (GGT) levels in each subject. The safety of LFE supplementation was assessed and adverse events were recorded. RESULTS LFE supplementation for 12 weeks resulted in a significant reduction of ALT (P = 0.0498) and GGT (P = 0.0368) levels in comparison to the placebo. No clinically significant changes were observed in any safety parameters. CONCLUSION These results suggest that LFE can be applied to subjects with mild hepatic dysfunction with no possible side effects. TRIAL REGISTRATION This study was registered at the Clinical Research Information Service (CRIS) as no. KCT0003985.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mi-Ra Oh
- Clinical Trial Center for Functional Foods, Jeonbuk National University Hospital, Jeonju, Jeonbuk, 54907, Republic of Korea
| | - Su-Jin Jung
- Clinical Trial Center for Functional Foods, Jeonbuk National University Hospital, Jeonju, Jeonbuk, 54907, Republic of Korea
- Biomedical Research Institute of Jeonbuk National University Hospital, Jeonju, Jeonbuk, 54907, Republic of Korea
| | - Soo-Wan Chae
- Clinical Trial Center for Functional Foods, Jeonbuk National University Hospital, Jeonju, Jeonbuk, 54907, Republic of Korea
- Biomedical Research Institute of Jeonbuk National University Hospital, Jeonju, Jeonbuk, 54907, Republic of Korea
| | - Byung-Hyun Park
- Department of Biochemistry and Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Jeonbuk National University Medical School, Jeonju, Jeonbuk, 54896, Republic of Korea.
| | - Seung-Ok Lee
- Clinical Trial Center for Functional Foods, Jeonbuk National University Hospital, Jeonju, Jeonbuk, 54907, Republic of Korea.
- Biomedical Research Institute of Jeonbuk National University Hospital, Jeonju, Jeonbuk, 54907, Republic of Korea.
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Jeonbuk National University Medical School, Jeonju, Jeonbuk, 54896, Republic of Korea.
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Ameliorative potentials of the ethanolic extract from Lycium chinense leaf extract against diabetic cardiomyopathy. Insight into oxido-inflammatory and apoptosis modulation. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 154:113583. [PMID: 35994819 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of cardiovascular complications in diabetes has become one of the major cause of diabetes related morbidity/mortality. The onset and progression of diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) has been majorly linked to lipid alterations, oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis. This present study investigated the cardioprotective role of Lycium chinense leaf extract (LCME) in fructose/streptozotocin induced diabetic rats. Diabetic animals were orally gavaged with LCME (100 and 400 mg/kg) for five weeks. The results indicated that diabetic rats showed increased blood glucose concentration, serum cardiac function markers (troponin T, creatine kinase-MB, aspartate aminotransferase and lactate dehydrogenase) and lipid profile (triglycerides and cholesterol). In addition, the cardiac tissues of diabetic rats showed increased levels of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin 1 beta (IL 1β), interleukin 6 (IL-6), caspase-3 and malondialdehyde as well as significantly reduced activities of catalase, superoxide dismutase, reduced glutathione and glutathione peroxidase. LCME significantly ameliorated hyperglycemia and markedly decreased serum concentrations of troponin T, creatine kinase-MB, aspartate aminotransferase and lactate dehydrogenase, triglycerides and cholesterol. Furthermore, LCME notably suppressed cardiac oxido-inflammatory mediators and boosted cardiac antioxidant defense. Histopathologically, LCME restored cardiac structural alterations and also suppressed the immunohistochemical expression of collagen IV, smooth muscle alpha-actin (α-SMA) and p53, while Bcl2 expression was significantly increased. In conclusion, our result indicated that LCME protected against diabetic cardiomyopathy suppressing oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis and fibrosis.
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Ye Y, Zhang B, Li Y, Xu HD, Liu XM, Huang SM, Wang R, Li D. Yin Huo Tang, a traditional Chinese herbal formula, relives ovariectomy and empty bottle stimulation-induced menopause-like symptoms in mice. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:994642. [PMID: 36339416 PMCID: PMC9627159 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.994642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Yin Huo Tang (YHT), a traditional Chinese herbal formula, is effectively used for the clinical treatment of menopause-like symptoms in China. This study aimed to investigate its efficacy on menopause-like symptoms in mice using behavioral tests and histopathological assessment, and to determine its possible mechanism of action based on network pharmacology. METHODS Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) technology was used to identify the potential active ingredients of YHT. In mice, menopause-like symptoms were induced by combination of bilateral ovariectomy and empty bottle stimulation. The mice were then treated with the YHT aqueous extract for three weeks. Behavior, sleep state, body weight, organ index, and histomorphology were analyzed separately. Additionally, network pharmacology and molecular docking were used to predict the mechanisms underlying the action of YHT. Finally, serum estradiol was quantified to preliminarily verify the results of network pharmacology. RESULTS YHT not only improved the behavior of mice (attack and explore behavior reduced; modify behavior increased) but also ameliorated the sleep state (sleep time increased and incubation time reduced). YHT reduced body weight, increased uterine weight, and improved the histomorphology of some organs. Network pharmacology and molecular docking analyses revealed that the estrogen signaling pathway might play a key role in attenuating menopause-like symptoms. Furthermore, YHT treatment reversed the reduction in serum estradiol levels. CONCLUSIONS YHT alleviates menopause-like symptoms in a mouse model, providing a rationale for using it as a potential therapeutic strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Ye
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Department of Neuroscience, Institute for Chinese Medicine, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, College of Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Hong-Dan Xu
- Department of Pharmacy, Wuxi Higher Health Vocational Technology School, Wuxi, China
| | - Xiu-Min Liu
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Shu-Ming Huang
- Department of Neuroscience, Institute for Chinese Medicine, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Rui Wang
- Research Institute of Medicine and Pharmacy, Qiqihar Medical University, Qiqihar, China
- *Correspondence: Rui Wang, ; Dong Li,
| | - Dong Li
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Rui Wang, ; Dong Li,
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Liu X, Wang Z, Song X, Chang X, Zu E, Ma X, Sukegawa M, Liu D, Wang DO. Crocetin Alleviates Ovariectomy-Induced Metabolic Dysfunction through Regulating Estrogen Receptor β. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2021; 69:14824-14839. [PMID: 34851635 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.1c04570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Metabolic dysfunction (MD) is a major health problem threatening the life quality of menopausal women. Saffron has been widely used in herb prescriptions for treating menopausal syndrome. However, the pharmacological effects and mechanisms of saffron are poorly understood. Here, we investigated the effect of crocin, the major ingredient of saffron and its active metabolite in blood, crocetin, on MD and lipid metabolism in ovariectomized (OVX) mice and 3T3-L1 adipocytes. The present study showed that intragastric treatment of crocin prevented weight gain, fat accumulation, and insulin resistance in OVX mice by increasing energy expenditure and fat oxidation. Mechanistically, crocin influenced adipose tissue homeostasis by regulating adipogenic and lipolytic factors, which was strongly associated with the restoration of the downregulated ERβ function in white adipose tissue (WAT). In vitro, crocetin facilitated lipid metabolism in an ERβ-dependent manner. Our results demonstrated the beneficial effects of crocetin/crocin-mediated intervention against metabolic dysfunction, revealing a prospective therapeutic application in menopausal women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoling Liu
- Wuya College of Innovation, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
- School of Traditional Chinese Materia Medica, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Ziqi Wang
- School of Traditional Chinese Materia Medica, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Xintong Song
- Wuya College of Innovation, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Xinyu Chang
- Wuya College of Innovation, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Er Zu
- Wuya College of Innovation, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Xiaowei Ma
- Wuya College of Innovation, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Momoe Sukegawa
- Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, RIKEN, 2-2-3 Minatojima-minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0047, Japan
- Graduate School of Biostudies, Kyoto University, Yoshida hon-machi, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
| | - Dongchun Liu
- School of Traditional Chinese Materia Medica, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Dan Ohtan Wang
- Wuya College of Innovation, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
- Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, RIKEN, 2-2-3 Minatojima-minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0047, Japan
- Graduate School of Biostudies, Kyoto University, Yoshida hon-machi, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
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He QD, Zhong ZH, Liu MN, Tong ZY, Wu QB, Chen M. Efficacy and Safety of Acupuncture Vs. Hormone Therapy for Menopausal Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF CHINESE MEDICINE 2021; 49:1793-1812. [PMID: 34772331 DOI: 10.1142/s0192415x21500853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Menopausal syndrome (MPS) is a common gynecological disorder around the time of menopause, and hormone therapy (HT) is the first-line treatment for it. However, HT is prone to cause adverse reactions in MPS patients treated with HT. Acupuncture is a popular non-pharmaceutical therapy for MPS, but the differences in the efficacy and safety between acupuncture and HT remain unclear. The purpose of this evidence-based study is to address this issue. Five databases were searched for potentially eligible RCTs. All RCTs comparing acupuncture with HT in the treatment of MPS were included in this study. The clinical effective rate was the primary outcome. Kupperman index, serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), estradiol (E[Formula: see text], and side effects were the secondary outcomes. A total of 15 RCTs recruiting 1376 MPS patients were included. Results of meta-analysis showed that compared with HT, acupuncture significantly improved clinical effective rate (RR = 1.09, 95% CI 1.03 to 1.16, [Formula: see text] = 0.005), decreased the Kupperman index (WMD = -2.55, 95% CI = -2.93 to -2.17, [Formula: see text] < 0.00001) and the incidence of side effects (RR = 0.14, 95% CI = 0.06-0.32, [Formula: see text] < 0.00001). There were no statistically significant differences in serum FSH (WMD = -1.36, 95% CI = -3.25-0.53, [Formula: see text] = 0.16), E2(WMD = -1.11, 95% CI = -2.59-0.37, [Formula: see text] = 0.14), or LH (WMD = -1.87, 95% CI = -4.58-0.83, [Formula: see text] = 0.17) between the acupuncture and HT groups. Based on the current evidence, manual acupuncture is safer and more effective than HT and is recommended for the treatment of MPS, but the evidence for the efficacy of other types of acupuncture is inconclusive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi-Da He
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicines, Macau University of Science and Technology, Weilong-Ro, Taipa, Macau, P. R. China
| | - Zheng-Hong Zhong
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicines, Macau University of Science and Technology, Weilong-Ro, Taipa, Macau, P. R. China
| | - Meng-Nan Liu
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicines, Macau University of Science and Technology, Weilong-Ro, Taipa, Macau, P. R. China
| | - Zi-Yan Tong
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicines, Macau University of Science and Technology, Weilong-Ro, Taipa, Macau, P. R. China
| | - Qi-Biao Wu
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicines, Macau University of Science and Technology, Weilong-Ro, Taipa, Macau, P. R. China
| | - Min Chen
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicines, Macau University of Science and Technology, Weilong-Ro, Taipa, Macau, P. R. China
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Chen Q, Wang B, Wang S, Qian X, Li X, Zhao J, Zhang H, Chen W, Wang G. Modulation of the Gut Microbiota Structure with Probiotics and Isoflavone Alleviates Metabolic Disorder in Ovariectomized Mice. Nutrients 2021; 13:1793. [PMID: 34070274 PMCID: PMC8225012 DOI: 10.3390/nu13061793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The decrease in ovarian hormone secretion that occurs during menopause results in an increase in body weight and adipose tissue mass. Probiotics and soy isoflavones (SIFs) could affect the gut microbiota and exert anti-obesity effects. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of probiotics and a diet containing SIF (SIF diet) on ovariectomized mice with menopausal obesity, including the gut microbiome. The results demonstrate that Bifidobacterium longum 15M1 can reverse menopausal obesity, whilst the combination of Lactobacillus plantarum 30M5 and a SIF diet was more effective in alleviating menopausal lipid metabolism disorder than either components alone. Probiotics and SIFs play different anti-obesity roles in menopausal mice. Furthermore, 30M5 alters the metabolites of the gut microbiota that increase the circulating estrogen level, upregulates the expression of estrogen receptor α in abdominal adipose tissue and improves the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). A SIF diet can significantly alter the structure of the fecal bacterial community and enrich the pathways related to SCFAs production. Moreover, 30M5 and a SIF diet acted synergistically to effectively resolve abnormal serum lipid levels in ovariectomized mice, and these effects appear to be associated with regulation of the diversity and structure of the intestinal microbiota to enhance SCFAs production and promote estrogen circulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; (Q.C.); (B.W.); (S.W.); (X.Q.); (X.L.); (J.Z.); (H.Z.); (W.C.)
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Botao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; (Q.C.); (B.W.); (S.W.); (X.Q.); (X.L.); (J.Z.); (H.Z.); (W.C.)
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Shunhe Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; (Q.C.); (B.W.); (S.W.); (X.Q.); (X.L.); (J.Z.); (H.Z.); (W.C.)
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Xin Qian
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; (Q.C.); (B.W.); (S.W.); (X.Q.); (X.L.); (J.Z.); (H.Z.); (W.C.)
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Xiu Li
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; (Q.C.); (B.W.); (S.W.); (X.Q.); (X.L.); (J.Z.); (H.Z.); (W.C.)
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Jianxin Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; (Q.C.); (B.W.); (S.W.); (X.Q.); (X.L.); (J.Z.); (H.Z.); (W.C.)
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Probiotics, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- (Yangzhou) Institute of Food Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Yangzhou 225004, China
| | - Hao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; (Q.C.); (B.W.); (S.W.); (X.Q.); (X.L.); (J.Z.); (H.Z.); (W.C.)
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- (Yangzhou) Institute of Food Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Yangzhou 225004, China
- National Engineering Research Center for Functional Food, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- Wuxi Translational Medicine Research Center and Jiangsu Translational Medicine Research Institute Wuxi Branch, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Wei Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; (Q.C.); (B.W.); (S.W.); (X.Q.); (X.L.); (J.Z.); (H.Z.); (W.C.)
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- National Engineering Research Center for Functional Food, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Gang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; (Q.C.); (B.W.); (S.W.); (X.Q.); (X.L.); (J.Z.); (H.Z.); (W.C.)
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Probiotics, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- (Yangzhou) Institute of Food Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Yangzhou 225004, China
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10
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Chao J, Ko CY, Lin CY, Tomoji M, Huang CH, Chiang HC, Yang JJ, Huang SS, Su SY. Ethnobotanical Survey of Natural Galactagogues Prescribed in Traditional Chinese Medicine Pharmacies in Taiwan. Front Pharmacol 2021; 11:625869. [PMID: 33679390 PMCID: PMC7928277 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.625869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural medicinal materials have been used to promote breast milk secretion. Here, we investigated the natural medicinal materials prescribed in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) pharmacies across Taiwan to induce lactation. We collected medicinal materials from 87 TCM pharmacies, identified them in the prescriptions, and analyzed their drug contents. We examined their botanical origins, biological classifications, traditional usage, and modern pharmacological properties. We used the TCM Inheritance Support System to identify core medicinal materials in galactogenous prescriptions. We collected 81 medicinal materials from 90 galactogenous prescriptions. Leguminosae accounted for 12%, whereas Apiaceae accounted for 7% of all materials examined. The primary medicinal plant parts used were roots and seeds. Nineteen frequently used medicinal materials had a relative frequency of citation of greater than or equal to 0.2. According to their efficacy, 58% were warm, 54% were sweet, and 63% were tonifying; 74% of the frequently used medicinal materials have been showed efficacy against breast cancer. The primary core medicinal material was Angelica sinensis (Oliv.) Diels, whereas the secondary core medicinal materials were Tetrapanax papyrifer (Hook.) K. Koch and Hedysarum polybotrys Hand.-Mazz. Most galactogenous prescriptions consisted of multiple materials from Leguminosae and Apiaceae. The mechanisms underlying galactogenous efficacy warrant further investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jung Chao
- Department of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences and Chinese Medicine Resources, Chinese Medicine Research Center, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Yu Ko
- School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chin-Yu Lin
- Institute of New Drug Development, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.,Tsuzuki Institute for Traditional Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Maeda Tomoji
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nihon Pharmaceutical University, Saitama, Japan.,Tsuzuki Institute for Traditional Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | | | - Hung-Che Chiang
- College of Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Jeng-Jer Yang
- Department of Pharmacy, Chia Nan University of Pharmacy and Science, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Shyh-Shyun Huang
- School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.,Department of Food Nutrition and Health Biotechnology, Asia University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Shan-Yu Su
- Department of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.,School of Post-Baccalaureate Chinese Medicine, College of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
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11
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Wu L, Guo C, Wu J. Therapeutic potential of PPARγ natural agonists in liver diseases. J Cell Mol Med 2020; 24:2736-2748. [PMID: 32031298 PMCID: PMC7077554 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.15028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2019] [Revised: 11/17/2019] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) is a vital subtype of the PPAR family. The biological functions are complex and diverse. PPARγ plays a significant role in protecting the liver from inflammation, oxidation, fibrosis, fatty liver and tumours. Natural products are a promising pool for drug discovery, and enormous research effort has been invested in exploring the PPARγ‐activating potential of natural products. In this manuscript, we will review the research progress of PPARγ agonists from natural products in recent years and probe into the application potential and prospects of PPARγ natural agonists in the therapy of various liver diseases, including inflammation, hepatic fibrosis, non‐alcoholic fatty liver and liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liwei Wu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Putuo People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Chuanyong Guo
- Department of Gastroenterology, Putuo People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianye Wu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Putuo People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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12
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Yang Z, Huang Y, An W, Zheng X, Huang S, Liang L. Sequencing and Structural Analysis of the Complete Chloroplast Genome of the Medicinal Plant Lycium chinense Mill. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2019; 8:E87. [PMID: 30987216 PMCID: PMC6524360 DOI: 10.3390/plants8040087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2019] [Revised: 03/29/2019] [Accepted: 03/31/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Lycium chinense Mill, an important Chinese herbal medicine, is widely used as a dietary supplement and food. Here the chloroplast (CP) genome of L. chinense was sequenced and analyzed, revealing a size of 155,756 bp and with a 37.8% GC content. The L. chinense CP genome comprises a large single copy region (LSC) of 86,595 bp and a small single copy region (SSC) of 18,209 bp, and two inverted repeat regions (IRa and IRb) of 25,476 bp separated by the single copy regions. The genome encodes 114 genes, 16 of which are duplicated. Most of the 85 protein-coding genes (CDS) had standard ATG start codons, while 3 genes including rps12, psbL and ndhD had abnormal start codons (ACT and ACG). In addition, a strong A/T bias was found in the majority of simple sequence repeats (SSRs) detected in the CP genome. Analysis of the phylogenetic relationships among 16 species revealed that L. chinense is a sister taxon to Lycium barbarum. Overall, the complete sequence and annotation of the L. chinense CP genome provides valuable genetic information to facilitate precise understanding of the taxonomy, species and phylogenetic evolution of the Solanaceae family.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zerui Yang
- DNA Barcoding Laboratory for TCM Authentication, Mathematical Engineering Academy of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510006, China.
| | - Yuying Huang
- DNA Barcoding Laboratory for TCM Authentication, Mathematical Engineering Academy of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510006, China.
| | - Wenli An
- DNA Barcoding Laboratory for TCM Authentication, Mathematical Engineering Academy of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510006, China.
| | - Xiasheng Zheng
- DNA Barcoding Laboratory for TCM Authentication, Mathematical Engineering Academy of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510006, China.
| | - Song Huang
- DNA Barcoding Laboratory for TCM Authentication, Mathematical Engineering Academy of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510006, China.
| | - Lingling Liang
- Pharmaceutical School, YouJiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise 533000, China.
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13
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Ko BS, Ryuk JA, Hwang JT, Zhang T, Wu X, Park S. Ojayeonjonghwan, an oriental medicine composed of five seeds, protects against vasomotor and neurological disorders in estrogen-deficient rats. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2019; 244:193-206. [PMID: 30722698 DOI: 10.1177/1535370219827847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
IMPACT STATEMENT Menopausal symptoms impair the quality of life of many women, and although conventional treatments are often effective, their use is limited by adverse effects. Ojayeonjonghwan, OJa, is a traditional Oriental medicine that is used for both male and female reproductive health and has a long history of safe use. We evaluated the effectiveness of two variations of OJa (OJa1 and OJa2) for treating menopausal symptoms in ovariectomized (OVX) rats. Both OJa preparations were effective for relieving indicators of hot flashes and depression, and for preventing loss of bone mineral density and lean body mass. Only OJa 2 prevented memory dysfunction. These results show that the traditional Oriental medicine, Ojayeonjonghwan, has the potential to relieve menopausal symptoms in women and should be further evaluated in human clinical trials as an alternative to convention therapies in women for whom conventional therapies are not indicated or found to be ineffective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Byoung-Seob Ko
- 1 Korean Medicine Convergence Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon 305-811, Korea
| | - Jin Ah Ryuk
- 1 Korean Medicine Convergence Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon 305-811, Korea
| | - Joo Tae Hwang
- 1 Korean Medicine Convergence Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon 305-811, Korea
| | - Ting Zhang
- 2 Food & Nutrition, Obesity/Diabetes Center, Hoseo University, Asan 336-795, Korea
| | - Xuangao Wu
- 2 Food & Nutrition, Obesity/Diabetes Center, Hoseo University, Asan 336-795, Korea
| | - Sunmin Park
- 2 Food & Nutrition, Obesity/Diabetes Center, Hoseo University, Asan 336-795, Korea
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14
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Lycium Barbarum Polysaccharides Improve Retinopathy in Diabetic Sprague-Dawley Rats. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2018; 2018:7943212. [PMID: 30581486 PMCID: PMC6276478 DOI: 10.1155/2018/7943212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2018] [Revised: 09/03/2018] [Accepted: 09/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) has become the most frequent cause of impaired visual acuity and blindness in working-age population in developed countries. Here we use diabetic rats to clarify the role of Lycium barbarum polysaccharides (LBP) on DR. We treated diabetic rats with LBP (400 mg/kg/d or 200 mg/kg/d) orally for 20 weeks. Electroretinogram (ERGs) and Laser Doppler blood flow were measured to assess the retinal function, routine histology and ultrastructural studies were performed to evaluate the morphological alterations, and immunohistochemistry, western blotting, and RT-PCR were conducted to detect the protein and mRNA levels of pro- and antiangiogenic factors. The results showed that diabetes suppressed the amplitudes of a-wave, b-wave, and oscillatory potential in ERG, reduced retinal blood flow, decreased the thickness of the retina, and increased the thickness of basement membrane of the retinal capillary. Furthermore, diabetes increased the mRNA and protein expressions of proangiogenic GFAP and VEGF and suppressed the levels of antiangiogenic PEDG. Treatment with LBP either completely or partially reversed the alterations caused by diabetes. It is concluded that the LBP protects retinal function and morphology in diabetic rats, probably through reinstallation of the balance between proangiogenic and antiangiogenic factors, which reduces neovascularization. LBP could be used as a therapeutic drug for DR.
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15
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Rodrigues FM, Adélio JI, Santana VO, De Marco Ornelas E, de Souza RR, Cardoso CG, da Veiga GL, Fonseca FLA, Maifrino LBM. Physical exercise alters hepatic morphology of low-density lipoprotein receptor knockout ovariectomized mice. Med Mol Morphol 2018; 52:15-22. [PMID: 29934711 DOI: 10.1007/s00795-018-0198-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2018] [Accepted: 06/18/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
To explore the effects of physical exercise on the liver of animals in menopause, we analyzed the histomorphometric parameters of the hepatic tissue in ovariectomized and dyslipidemic female mice. The animals were distributed in six groups (n = 5): sedentary control (SC), sedentary ovariectomized control (SOC), trained ovariectomized control (TOC), sedentary LDL knockout (LDL-S), sedentary ovariectomized LDL knockout (LDL-SO), and trained ovariectomized LDL knockout (LDL-TO). At the end of the experiment, the liver and the visceral adipose tissue (VAT) of animals were removed for morphometric and stereological studies. In the LDL-S and LDL-SO animals, both sedentary, results showed reduction in the area (µm2) and major and minor diameters (µm) of hepatocytes and reduction in the portions of large hepatocytes, and increase in the percentage of Kupffer cells. The trained group showed a tendency of increase in the area and diameter and in the percentage of hepatocytes, as well significant reduction in the percentage of Kupffer cells and interstitial tissue. We suggested that training can prevent cell and tissue damage caused by the process of increase in hepatic fat, lipoperoxidation, and tissue inflammation in animals with privation of estrogen and dyslipidemia, apparently reflecting a better metabolic response of the hepatic tissue in organisms undergoing training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franciele Mercúrio Rodrigues
- Stricto Sensu Postgraduate Program in Physical Education and Aging, Universidade São Judas Tadeu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Jenifer Inácio Adélio
- Stricto Sensu Postgraduate Program in Physical Education and Aging, Universidade São Judas Tadeu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Vanessa Oliveira Santana
- Stricto Sensu Postgraduate Program in Physical Education and Aging, Universidade São Judas Tadeu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Elisabeth De Marco Ornelas
- Stricto Sensu Postgraduate Program in Physical Education and Aging, Universidade São Judas Tadeu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Romeu Rodrigues de Souza
- Stricto Sensu Postgraduate Program in Physical Education and Aging, Universidade São Judas Tadeu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Clever Gomes Cardoso
- Department of Histology, Embryology and Molecular Biology, Universidade Federal de Goiás (UFG), Goiania, Brazil
| | - Glaucia Luciano da Veiga
- Clinical Analysis Laboratory, Faculdade de Medicina do ABC-FMABC2000, Lauro Gomes Avenue, Santo André, SP, CEP 09060-650, Brazil
| | - Fernando Luiz Affonso Fonseca
- Clinical Analysis Laboratory, Faculdade de Medicina do ABC-FMABC2000, Lauro Gomes Avenue, Santo André, SP, CEP 09060-650, Brazil.
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Department of Universidade Federal de São Paulo-Unifesp, Diadema, SP, Brazil.
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