Panax notoginseng for Inflammation-Related Chronic Diseases: A Review on the Modulations of Multiple Pathways

Identification of active ingredients in Naomaitai capsules using high-resolution mass spectrometry unite molecular network analysis and prediction of their action mechanisms

RATIONALE

Although Naomaitai capsule (NMC) is widely used in clinical practice and has a good curative effect for cerebral infarction, its material basis and mechanism of action remain unclear.

METHODS

In this study, ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) coupled with quadrupole Orbitrap MS technology was used to analyse the in vivo and in vitro components of NMC, and the Global Natural Products Social Molecular Networking website was used to further analyse the components of NMC. Next, systems biology approaches were employed to investigate the mechanism of action of NMC. Finally, molecular docking technology was used to verify the network pharmacological results.

RESULTS

In total, 177 compounds were identified in vitro, including 65 terpenoids, 62 flavonoids, 25 organic acids and 11 quinones. 64 compounds were identified in the blood of mice, and the main active components included ginkgolide C, ginkgolide A, ligustilide, tanshinone IIB, olmelin, emodin and puerarin. The main targets in vivo included TP53, SRC, STAT3, PIK3CA and PIK3R1.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, this study has revealed that NMC acts on multiple targets in the body through various active components, exerting synergistic effects in the treatment of CI. Its mechanism of action may involve inhibiting neuronal apoptosis, oxidative stress and inflammatory responses as well as reducing cerebral vascular permeability and promoting cerebral vascular regeneration.

Revealing the Mechanisms of Qilongtian Capsules in the Treatment of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Based on Integrated Network Pharmacology, Molecular Docking, and In Vivo Experiments

The Qilongtian capsule (QLT) is a Chinese patent medicine that has been approved for the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, the precise pharmacodynamic material basis and molecular mechanism have not been well illustrated. In this study, we identified the effect of QLT on COPD through a cigarette smoke extract (CSE)/lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced COPD mice model. The absorption of blood components in QLT were identified using ultrahigh performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF-MS). Network pharmacology was used to predict the potential targets and therapeutic mechanisms of QLT, which were further validated using in vivo experiments and molecular docking. Pharmacodynamic studies revealed that QLT could ameliorate pulmonary function and pulmonary pathology, reduce collagen fiber accumulation, and attenuate inflammatory responses in mice with CSE/LPS induced COPD. A total of 21 components of QLT absorbed in the blood were detected. Network pharmacology analysis indicated that TNF, IL-6, EGFR, and AKT1 may be the core targets, mainly involving the MAPK signaling pathway. Besides, Sachaloside II, Ginsenoside Rh1, Ginsenoside F1, Rosiridin, and Ginsenoside Rf were the key compounds. Molecular docking results showed that the key components could spontaneously bind to EGFR and MAPK to form a relatively stable conformation. In vivo experiments revealed that QLT could suppress the activation of the EGFR/MAPK signaling pathway, thereby improving lung injury in mice with COPD. Overall, these findings provide evidence for the treatment of COPD with QLT.

Ethanolic extract of Arctium lappa leaves alleviates cerebral ischemia reperfusion-induced inflammatory injury via HDAC9-mediated NF-κB pathway

BACKGROUND

Ischemic stroke (IS) is a major cause of mortality and disability worldwide. Inflammatory response is crucial in the pathogenesis of tissue injury in cerebral infarction. Arctium lappa leaves are traditionally used to treat IS.

PURPOSES

To investigate the neuroprotective effects and molecular mechanisms of the ethanolic extract of A. lappa leaves (ALLEE) on cerebral ischemia-reperfusion (CIR).

METHODS

Middle cerebral artery obstruction reperfusion (MCAO/R) rats and an oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R) cell model were used to evaluate ALLEE pharmacodynamics. Various methods, including neurological function, 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride, hematoxylin and eosin, and Nissl, enzyme-linked immunosorbent, and TdT-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling assays, were used to analyze the neuroprotective effects of ALLEE in vitro and in vivo. The major chemical components and potential target genes of ALLEE were screened using network pharmacology. Molecular docking, western blotting, and immunofluorescence analyses were performed to confirm the effectiveness of the targets in related pathways.

RESULTS

ALLEE exerted potent effects on the MCAO/R model by decreasing the neurological scores, infarct volumes, and pathological features (p < 0.01). Furthermore, network pharmacology results revealed that the treatment of IS with ALLEE involved the regulation of various inflammatory pathways, such as the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and chemokine signaling pathways. ALLEE also played key roles in targeting key molecules, including nuclear factor (NF)-κBIA, NF-κB1, interleukin (IL)-6, TNF-α and IL1β, and regulating the histone deacetylase (HDAC)-9-mediated signaling pathway. In vivo and in vitro analyses revealed that ALLEE significantly regulated the NF-κB pathway, promoted the phosphorylation activation of NF-κB P65, IκB and IKK (p < 0.01 or p < 0.05), and decreased the expression levels of the inflammatory factors, IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α (p < 0.01). Moreover, ALLEE significantly decreased the expression of HDAC9 (p < 0.01) that is associated with inflammatory responses. However, HDAC9 overexpression partially reversed the neuroprotective effects of ALLEE and its suppressive effects on inflammation and phosphorylation of NF-κB (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, our results revealed that ALLEE ameliorates MCAO/R-induced experimental CIR by modulating inflammatory responses via the inhibition of HDAC9-mediated NF-κB pathway.

Production and pharmaceutical research of minor saponins in Panax notoginseng (Sanqi): Current status and future prospects

Panax notoginseng (Burk.) F.H. Chen is a traditional medicinal herb known as Sanqi or Tianqi in Asia and is commonly used worldwide. It is one of the main raw ingredients of Yunnan Baiyao, Fu fang dan shen di wan, and San qi shang yao pian. It is also a source of cardiotonic pill used to treat cardiovascular diseases in China, Korea, and Russia. Approximately 270 Panax notoginseng saponins have been isolated and identified as the major active components. Although the absorption and bioavailability of saponins are predominantly dependent on the gastrointestinal biotransformation capacity of an individual, minor saponins are better absorbed into the bloodstream and act as active substances than major saponins. Notably, minor saponins are absent or are present in minimal quantities under natural conditions. In this review, we focus on the strategies for the enrichment and production of minor saponins in P. notoginseng using physical, chemical, enzyme catalytic, and microbial methods. Moreover, pharmacological studies on minor saponins derived from P. notoginseng over the last decade are discussed. This review serves as a meaningful resource and guide, offering scholarly references for delving deeper into the exploration of the minor saponins in P. notoginseng.

The use of Panax notoginseng saponins injections after intravenous thrombolysis in acute ischemic stroke: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

As a bioactive metabolite preparation widely used in acute ischemic stroke (AIS), the efficacy and safety of Panax notoginseng saponins injections (PNSI) in patients with AIS after intravenous thrombolysis remain to be evaluated.

Methods

This study included randomized controlled trials published before 26 April 2024 in 8 databases. AIS patients who received intravenous thrombolysis were included. The control group receiving conventional treatment and the treatment group receiving additional PNSI. Primary outcomes were selected as mortality, disability, and adverse events. Secondary outcomes were selected as all-cause mortality, improvement of neurological deficit, quality of life, and cerebral injury indicators. The revised Cochrane Risk of Bias tool was used to assess risk of bias. Risk ratio (RR) and mean differences (MD) were calculated for binary variables and continuous variables, respectively, based on a 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results

A total of 20 trials involving 1,856 participants were included. None of them reported mortality or disability. There was no significant difference in the adverse events [RR: 1.04; 95% CI: 0.60 to 1.81] and hemorrhagic transformation [RR: 0.99; 95% CI: 0.36 to 2.70] between the two groups. Compared to the control group, the treatment group had a better effect in neurological improvement assessed by National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale [MD: -2.91; 95% CI: -4.76 to -1.06], a better effect in activities of daily living changes in Barthel Index [MD: 9.37; 95% CI: 1.86 to 16.88], and a lower serum neuron-specific enolase level [MD: -2.08; 95% CI: -2.67 to -1.49].

Conclusion

For AIS patients undergoing intravenous thrombolysis, the use of PNSI improved neurological deficits and enhanced activity of daily living in the short term without increasing the occurrence rate of adverse events. However, due to the moderate to very low certainty of evidence, it is advisable to conduct high-quality clinical trials to validate the findings of this study.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=466851, Identifier CRD42023466851.

Integrating network pharmacology and experimental models to identify notoginsenoside R1 ameliorates atherosclerosis by inhibiting macrophage NLRP3 inflammasome activation

Atherosclerosis is a cardiovascular disease, accounting for the most common mortality cause worldwide. Notoginsenoside R1 (NGR1) is a characteristic saponin of Radix notoginseng that exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects while modulating lipid metabolism. Evidence suggests that NGR1 exerts cardioprotective, neuroprotective, and anti-atherosclerosis effects. However, underlying NGR1 mechanisms alleviating atherosclerosis (AS) have not been examined. This study used a network pharmacology approach to construct the drug-target-disease correlation and protein-protein interaction (PPI) network of NGR1 and AS. Moreover, functional annotation and pathway enrichment analyses deciphered the critical biological processes and signaling pathways potentially regulated by NGR1. The protective effect of NGR1 against AS and the underlying mechanism(s) was assessed in an atherogenic apolipoprotein E-deficient (ApoE-/-) mice in vivo and an oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL)-induced macrophage model in vitro. The network pharmacology and molecular docking analyses revealed that NGR1 protects against AS by targeting the NLRP3/caspase-1/IL-1β pathway. NGR1 reduced foam cell formation in ox-LDL-induced macrophages and decreased atherosclerotic lesion formation, serum lipid metabolism, and inflammatory cytokines in AS mice in vivo. Therefore, NGR1 downregulates the NLRP3 inflammasome complex gene expression of NLRP3, caspase-1, ASC, IL-1β, and IL-18, in vivo and in vitro.

Multi-layered effects of Panax notoginseng on immune system

Recent research has demonstrated the immunomodulatory potential of Panax notoginseng in the treatment of chronic inflammatory diseases and cerebral hemorrhage, suggesting its significance in clinical practice. Nevertheless, the complex immune activity of various components has hindered a comprehensive understanding of the immune-regulating properties of Panax notoginseng, impeding its broader utilization. This review evaluates the effect of Panax notoginseng to various types of white blood cells, elucidates the underlying mechanisms, and compares the immunomodulatory effects of different Panax notoginseng active fractions, aiming to provide the theory basis for future immunomodulatory investigation.

Advancements in research on the immune-inflammatory mechanisms mediated by NLRP3 inflammasome in ischemic stroke and the regulatory role of natural plant products

Ischemic stroke (IS) is a major cause of mortality and disability among adults. Recanalization of blood vessels to facilitate timely reperfusion is the primary clinical approach; however, reperfusion itself may trigger cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury. Emerging evidence strongly implicates the NLRP3 inflammasome as a potential therapeutic target, playing a key role in cerebral ischemia and reperfusion injury. The aberrant expression and function of NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated inflammation in cerebral ischemia have garnered considerable attention as a recent research focus. Accordingly, this review provides a comprehensive summary of the signaling pathways, pathological mechanisms, and intricate interactions involving NLRP3 inflammasomes in cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury. Moreover, notable progress has been made in investigating the impact of natural plant products (e.g., Proanthocyanidins, methylliensinine, salidroside, α-asarone, acacia, curcumin, morin, ginsenoside Rd, paeoniflorin, breviscapine, sulforaphane, etc.) on regulating cerebral ischemia and reperfusion by modulating the NLRP3 inflammasome and mitigating the release of inflammatory cytokines. These findings aim to present novel insights that could contribute to the prevention and treatment of cerebral ischemia and reperfusion injury.

Tianhuang formula ameliorates liver fibrosis by inhibiting CCL2-CCR2 axis and MAPK/NF-κB signaling pathway

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

In the progression of chronic liver diseases, liver fibrosis is a reversible pathophysiologic event for liver diseases prognosis and risk of cirrhosis. Liver injury factors of different etiologies mediate this process. There is still a lack of effective medications for treating liver fibrosis. Additionally, the ameliorative effects of traditional herbs on liver fibrosis have been commonly reported. Tianhuang formula (THF) is a drug combination consisting of 2 traditional Chinese herbs, which has been showing significant improvement in metabolic liver diseases. However, the hepatoprotective effect and mechanism of THF in ameliorating liver fibrosis are still unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to investigate the effects of THF on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced and methionine-choline-deficient (MCD) diet-induced liver fibrosis model and to reveal the potential mechanisms. It can provide experimental evidence for THF as a therapeutic candidate for liver fibrosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this study, CCl4-induced mice were treated with THF (80 mg/kg, 160 mg/kg) or Fuzheng Huayu (FZHY) capsules (4.8 g/kg) for 6 weeks. MCD-induced mice received the same doses of THF or FZHY for 4 weeks. FZHY is used as a comparative study in these two models. Following that, using kit reagents detected changes in relevant serum and liver biochemical indicators. Histological changes in mouse liver were measured by staining of H&E and Sirius Red. The markers expression of liver fibrosis and inflammation were detected using qRT-PCR, western blotting and immunohistochemical staining analysis. The potential regulatory mechanism of THF to ameliorate liver fibrosis was performed by RNA-sequencing analysis. Finally, the analysis results were verified by immunofluorescence co-staining, qRT-PCR and western blotting.

RESULTS

Serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and hepatic triglyceride (TG) levels in CCl4 and MCD-induced liver fibrosis mice were significantly improved after THF treatment. Meanwhile, the expression of fibrosis and inflammation markers were significantly suppressed. Furthermore, THF downregulated the expression of the macrophage marker CD68. According to RNA-sequencing analysis, we found the CCL2-CCR2 axis and MAPK/NF-κB as the potential signaling pathway for THF against liver fibrosis.

CONCLUSION

This study revealed that THF ameliorated liver injury, inflammation and fibrotic process by inhibiting CCL2-CCR2 axis and its downstream MAPK/NF-κB signaling pathway.

Natural Extracts for Antibacterial Applications

Bacteria-induced epidemics and infectious diseases are seriously threatening the health of people around the world. In addition, antibiotic therapy has been inducing increasingly more serious bacterial resistance, which makes it urgent to develop new treatment strategies to combat bacteria, including multidrug-resistant bacteria. Natural extracts displaying antibacterial activity and good biocompatibility have attracted much attention due to greater concerns about the safety of synthetic chemicals and emerging drug resistance. These antibacterial components can be isolated and utilized as antimicrobials, as well as transformed, combined, or wrapped with other substances by using modern assistive technologies to fight bacteria synergistically. This review summarizes recent advances in natural extracts from three kinds of sources-plants, animals, and microorganisms-for antibacterial applications. This work discusses the corresponding antibacterial mechanisms and the future development of natural extracts in antibacterial fields.

A Review of the Occurrence of Rheumatoid Arthritis and Potential Treatments through Medicinal Plants from an Indian Perspective

Arthritis is a medical condition that affects the joints and causes inflammation, pain, and stiffness. There are different types of arthritis, and it can affect people of all ages, even infants and the elderly. Recent studies have found that individuals with diabetes, heart disease, and obesity are more likely to experience arthritis symptoms. According to the World Health Organization, over 21% of people worldwide suffer from musculoskeletal problems. Roughly 42.19 million individuals in India, constituting around 0.31% of the populace, have been documented as having Rheumatic Arthritis (RA). Compared to other common diseases like diabetes, cancer, and AIDS, arthritis is more prevalent in the general population. Unfortunately, there is no specific cure for arthritis, and treatment plans usually involve non-pharmacological methods, surgeries, and medications that target specific symptoms. Plant-based remedies have also been shown to be effective in managing inflammation and related complications. In addition to therapies, maintaining a healthy diet, exercise, and weight management are essential for managing arthritis. This review discusses the causes, prevalence, diagnostic methods, current and prospective future treatments, and potential medicinal plants that may act as anti-inflammatory or anti-rheumatic agents. However, more research is necessary to identify the underlying mechanisms and active molecules that could improve arthritis treatment.

Ginsenoside Rg3 Protects against Diabetic Cardiomyopathy and Promotes Adiponectin Signaling via Activation of PPAR-γ

Ginsenoside Rg3 extracted from Panax notoginseng has therapeutic effects on diabetes and heart diseases. However, the underlying mechanism of ginsenoside Rg3 on diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) remains unclear. 24-week-old diabetic db/db mice were treated with ginsenoside Rg3 for 12 weeks, then body weight, serum lipids, adiponectin levels, as well as cardiac function and pathological morphology, were measured. The targets of ginsenoside Rg3 and its regulation of the adiponectin pathway were also evaluated on 3T3-L1 or H9c2 cells. Ginsenoside Rg3 directly bound to PPAR-γ, improving adiponectin secretion and promoting adiponectin signaling. Significantly attenuated overweight, hyperglycemia, and hyperlipidemia, as well as alleviated lipid accumulation and dysfunction in adipose, liver, and heart tissues, were observed in the ginsenoside Rg3-treated group. Ginsenoside Rg3 could be a promising drug targeting PPAR-γ to treat diabetic cardiomyopathy.

Panax notoginseng-microbiota interactions: From plant cultivation to medicinal application

BACKGROUND

Microbiomes and their host plants are closely linked with each other; for example, the microbiome affects plant growth, fitness, nutrient uptake, stress tolerance and pathogen resistance, whereas the host plant supports the photosynthetically carbon-rich nutrition of the microbiome. The importance of the microbiome in plant‒soil ecosystems is unquestioned and has expanded to influence the medicinal application of some herbal plants via the gut microbiota.

PURPOSE

Herbal plant-microbiome interactions may provide novel knowledge to enhance the robustness of herbal plant crop performance and medicinal applications, which requires a systematic review and preceding discussion.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

The interactions between Panax notoginseng and microorganisms (from soil to host) were reviewed from the literature. The terms "Panax notoginseng" and "microbiota" were used in combination with the keywords "microbiota/microbes", "bacteria/bacterium" or "fungi/fungus" or "endophyte", as well as our targeted bioactive phytochemicals, including saponins and ginsenosides.

RESULT

Our study focuses on the famous medicinal herb Panax notoginseng F. H. Chen and proposes that the microbiota is a crucial participant not only in the cultivation of this herbal plant but also in its medicinal application. We also summarize and discuss how these plant‒microbe co-associations shape the assembly of plant-related microbiomes and produce bioactive phytochemicals, as well as influence beneficial herbal traits, such as herbal plant health and pharmacology. In addition, we also highlight future directions.

CONCLUSION

The rhizosphere and endophytic microbiome of Panax notoginseng are indirectly or directly involved in plant health, biomass production, and the synthesis/biotransformation of plant secondary metabolites. Harnessing the microbiome to improve the quality of traditional Chinese medicine and improve the value of medicinal plants for human health is highly promising.

Panax notoginseng alleviates oxidative stress through miRNA regulations based on systems biology approach

BACKGROUND

Herbal medicine Sanqi (SQ), the dried root or stem of Panax notoginseng (PNS), has been reported to have anti-diabetic and anti-obesity effects and is usually administered as a decoction for Chinese medicine. Alternative to utilizing PNS pure compound for treatment, we are motivated to propose an unconventional scheme to investigate the functions of PNS mixture. However, studies providing a detailed overview of the transcriptomics-based signaling network in response to PNS are seldom available.

METHODS

To explore the reasoning of PNS in treating metabolic disorders such as insulin resistance, we implemented a systems biology-based approach with RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) and miRNA sequencing data to elucidate key pathways, genes and miRNAs involved.

RESULTS

Functional enrichment analysis revealed PNS up-regulating oxidative stress-related pathways and down-regulating insulin and fatty acid metabolism. Superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1), peroxiredoxin 1 (PRDX1), heme oxygenase-1 (Hmox1) and glutamate cysteine ligase (GCLc) mRNA and protein levels, as well as related miRNA levels, were measured in PNS treated rat pancreatic β cells (INS-1). PNS treatment up-regulated Hmox1, SOD1 and GCLc expression while down-regulating miR-24-3p and miR-139-5p to suppress oxidative stress. Furthermore, we verified the novel interactions between miR-139-5p and miR-24-3p with GCLc and SOD1.

CONCLUSION

This work has demonstrated the mechanism of how PNS regulates cellular molecules in metabolic disorders. Therefore, combining omics data with a systems biology strategy could be a practical means to explore the potential function and molecular mechanisms of Chinese herbal medicine in the treatment of metabolic disorders.

Study on the regulatory effect of Panax notoginseng saponins combined with bone mesenchymal stem cell transplantation on IRAK1/TRAF6-NF-κB pathway in patients with diabetic cutaneous ulcers

Panax notoginseng saponins (PNSs) have been found as the major active ingredient of Panax notoginseng (Burkill) F.H.Chen (PN) leaves, which has the effect of reducing inflammatory response, facilitating fibroblast proliferation, as well as promoting angiogenesis. This study aimed to investigate the molecular basis of PNS combined with bone mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) for treating diabetic cutaneous ulcers (DCU) and its mechanism of action.

METHODS

A total of 75 SD rats were selected to make diabetic cutaneous ulcers model. According random number table method, the rats were randomly divided into a control group, a DCU group, a BMSCs group, a PNS group and BMSCs + PNS group. Five groups of rats were given without treatment. After being treated for 7 days, the rats were anesthetized with pentobarbital, and granulation tissue was collected from the central point of the wound. They were used for pathological analysis, Western blot (WB) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays.

RESULTS

The wound healing area was the largest in the BMSCs + PNS group. HE staining results showed that the PNS + BMSCs group could promote the formation of new epidermis and reduce the infiltration of inflammatory cells. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) results showed that the PNS + BMSCs group could up-regulate the expression of Ki67 protein and cell proliferation. In addition, PNS combined with BMSCs up-regulated the expression of miR-146-5p and down-regulated the expression of IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α, IRAK1, TRAF6 and p65 in the NF-κB signaling pathway (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

PNS combined with bone mesenchymal stem cell transplantation up-regulated miR-146a-5p targeting and binding to IRAK1/TRAF6, inhibiting the activation of NF-κB pathway, which reduced the inflammatory response of DCU and facilitated the skin healing of DCU. Thus, this study provides a theoretical basis and a novel therapeutic option for the treatment of DFU with PNS combined with BMSCs.

Combination of Astragalus membranaceus and Panax notoginseng as Main Components in the Treatment of Diabetic Nephropathy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Objective

This meta-analysis evaluated the curative effect of the compatibility of Astragalus membranaceus and Panax notoginseng (ARPN) as main components on diabetic nephropathy.

Methods

We used various Chinese and English databases, including the Cochrane Library, PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), China Biology Medicine Disc (SinoMed), VIP, and Wanfang, to search for randomized controlled trials on the compatibility of Astragalus membranaceus and Panax notoginseng as main components. After data extraction, meta-analysis was performed with Review Manager 5.4.0 and Stata 15, and the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) framework was used to evaluate the quality of the evidence.

Result

A total of 17 studies involving 1342 patients with diabetic nephropathy were included. Compared with the control group, ARPN can significantly improve the clinical effective rate of diabetic nephropathy (OR 5.12, 95% CI 3.42 to 7.66, P < 0.00001), and the curative effect of reducing UAER (MD -26.67, 95% CI -31.30 to -22.04, P < 0.00001) and 24 h urinary protein (SMD -0.58, 95% CI -0.75 to -0.41, P < 0.00001) is also significantly better than that of the control group, and it can also improve the renal function(Scr: MD -13.78, 95% CI -25.39 to -2.17, P=0.02; BUN: MD -0.74, 95% CI -1.27 to -0.20, P=0.007). In addition, it can also reduce glycosylated hemoglobin (SMD -1.30, 95% CI -2.33 to -0.27, P=0.01) and blood lipid(TC: SMD -0.62, 95% CI -0.95 to -0.29, P=0.0002; TG: SMD -0.47, 95% CI -0.75 to -0.19, P=0.0009; LDL: SMD -0.43, 95% CI -0.68 to -0.18, P=0.0008), and improve the TCM syndrome score (MD -4.87, 95% CI -6.17 to -3.57, P < 0.00001). Subgroup analysis suggested that the treatment plan of the control group could be the sources of heterogeneity. All the included studies had no obvious adverse effects.

Conclusions

The compatibility of Radix Astragali and Radix notoginseng as the main components can effectively improve the renal function of patients with diabetic nephropathy and delay the progress of diabetic nephropathy. However, the results of this study need further research to be confirmed because of the uncertainty of the evidence and the suboptimal risk bias.

Autotoxicity in Panax notoginseng of root exudatesand their allelochemicals

The growth of Panax notoginseng (Burk.) F. H. Chen is frequently hindered due to replanting failure. In the present study, the objective is to determine whether root exudates from P. notoginseng have autotoxicity and identification of allelochemicals from root exudates or rhizosphere soil. We investigated autotoxicity in P. notoginseng using seedling emergence bioassays and hydroponic culture. The allelochemicals in the soils and root exudates were identified with GC-MS, and the autotoxicity of the identified key allelochemicals was investigated by bioassay. The results showed that the root exudates, and extracts from consecutively cultivated soils also showed significant autotoxicity against seedling emergence and growth. In the non-renewed culture solution without activated charcoal (AC), the fresh and dry mass of P. notoginseng tubers of roots was reduced by about half compared to the addition with AC. A total of 44 different components from all samples were defined by GC-MS analyses. Furthermore, the results of multiple statistical analysis showed a t the difference among cultivated soil, uncultivated soil and root exudates. Bioassay of the identified allelochemicals revealed that benzoic acid, phthalic acid, palmitic acid, and stearic acid significantly affected the root growth of P. notoginseng. These substances at 100 μM more significantly decreased the number of lateral roots. Our results demonstrated that autotoxicity results in replant failure of P. notoginseng.

Yifei Sanjie Formula Treats Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease by Remodeling Pulmonary Microbiota

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is one of the most common pulmonary diseases. Evidence suggests that dysbiosis of pulmonary microbiota leads to the COPD pathological process. Yifei Sanjie Formula (YS) is widely used to treat diseases in respiratory systems, yet little is known about its mechanisms. In the present study, we first established the fingerprint of YS as the background for UHPLC-QTOF-MS. Components were detected, including alkaloids, amino acid derivatives, phenylpropanoids, flavonoids, terpenoids, organic acids, phenols, and the like. The therapeutic effect of YS on COPD was evaluated, and the pulmonary function and ventilatory dysfunction (EF50, TV, and MV) were improved after the administration of YS. Further, the influx of lymphocytes was inhibited in pulmonary parenchyma, accompanied by down-regulation of inflammation cytokines via the NLRP3/caspase-1/IL-1β signaling pathway. The severity of pulmonary pathological damage was reversed. Disturbed pulmonary microbiota was discovered to involve an increased relative abundance of Ralstonia and Mycoplasma and a decreased relative abundance of Lactobacillus and Bacteroides in COPD animals. However, the subversive effect was shown. The abundance and diversity of pulmonary microflora were remodeled, especially increasing beneficial genua Lactobacillus and Bacteroides, as well as downregulating pathogenic genua Ralstonia and Mycoplasma in the YS group. Environmental factor correlation analysis showed that growing pulmonary microbiota was positively correlated with the inflammatory factor, referring to Ralstonia and Mycoplasma, as well as negatively correlated with the inflammatory factor, referring to Lactobacillus and Bacteroides. These results suggest that the effects of YS involved remodeling lung microbes and anti-inflammatory signal pathways, revealing that intervention microbiota and an anti-inflammatory may be a potential therapeutic strategy for COPD.

Notoginsenoside R1 Regulates Ischemic Myocardial Lipid Metabolism by Activating the AKT/mTOR Signaling Pathway

Ischemic heart diseases are responsible for more than one-third of all deaths worldwide. Radix notoginseng is widely used to treat ischemic heart disease in China and other Asian countries, and notoginsenoside R1 (NGR1) is its characteristic and large-amount ingredient. However, the potential molecular mechanisms of NGR1 in improving ischemic heart diseases are unclear. In this study, we combined pharmacological evaluation with network pharmacology, myocardial proteomics, and conventional molecular dynamics (MD) simulation to explore the cardio-protection mechanisms of NGR1. Our results revealed that NGR1 improved the echocardiographic, tissue pathological, and serum biochemical perturbations in myocardial ischemic rats. The network pharmacology studies indicated that NGR1 mainly regulated smooth muscle cell proliferation, vasculature development, and lipid metabolism signaling, especially in the PI3K/AKT pathway. Myocardial proteomics revealed that the function of NGR1 was focused on regulating metabolic and energy supply processes. The research combined reverse-docked targets with differential proteins and demonstrated that NGR1 modulated lipid metabolism in ischemic myocardia by interacting with mTOR and AKT. Conventional MD simulation was applied to investigate the influence of NGR1 on the structural stabilization of the mTOR and AKT complex. The results suggested that NGR1 can strengthen the affinity stabilization of mTOR and AKT. Our study first revealed that NGR1 enhanced the affinity stabilization of mTOR and AKT, thus promoting the activation of the AKT/mTOR pathway and improving lipid metabolic abnormity in myocardial ischemic rats.

Notoginsenoside R1 Ameliorates Cardiac Lipotoxicity Through AMPK Signaling Pathway

Aims: Cardiac lipotoxicity is the common consequence of lipid metabolism disorders in cardiomyocytes during development of heart failure (HF). Adenosine 5'monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) acts as an energy sensor and has a beneficial effect in reducing lipotoxicity. Notoginsenoside R1 (NGR1) is extracted from the traditional Chinese medicine Panax notoginseng (Burkill) F.H.Chen (P. notoginseng) and has definite cardioprotective effects. However, whether NGR1 can attenuate HF by mitigating lipotoxicity has not been elucidated yet. This study aimed to explore whether NGR1 plays a protective role against HF by ameliorating cardiac lipotoxicity via the AMPK pathway. Methods: In this study, HF mice model was established by left anterior descending (LAD) ligation. palmitic acid (PA) stimulated H9C2 cell model was applied to clarify the effects and potential mechanism of NGR1 on lipotoxicity. In vivo, NGR1 (7.14 mg/kg/days) and positive drug (simvastatin: 2.9 mg/kg/days) were orally administered for 14 days. Echocardiography was applied to assess heart functions. Lipid levels were measured by Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and key proteins in the AMPK pathway were detected by western blots. In vitro, NGR1 (40 μmol/L) or Compound C (an inhibitor of AMPK, 10 μmol/L) was co-cultured with PA stimulation for 24 h in H9C2 cells. CCK-8 assay was used to detect cell viability. Key lipotoxicity-related proteins were detected by western blots and the LipidTOX™ neutral lipid stains were used to assess lipid accumulation. In addition, Apoptosis was assessed by Hoechst/PI staining. Results: NGR1 could significantly improve the cardiac function and myocardial injury in mice with HF and up-regulate the expression of p-AMPK. Impressively, NGR1 inhibited the synthesis of diacylglycerol (DAG) and ceramide and promoted fatty acid oxidation (FAO) in vivo. Moreover, NGR1 significantly promoted expression of CPT-1A, the key enzyme in FAO pathway, and down-regulated the expression of GPAT and SPT, which were the key enzymes catalyzing production of DAG and ceramide. In vitro experiments showed that NGR1 could significantly attenuate lipid accumulation in PA-induced H9C2 cells and the Hoechst/PI staining results showed that NGR1 ameliorated lipotoxicity-induced apoptosis in PA-stimulated H9C2 cell model. Furthermore, co-treatment with inhibitor of AMPK abrogated the protective effects of NGR1. The regulative effects of NGR1 on lipid metabolism were also reversed by AMPK inhibitor. Conclusion: NGR1 could significantly improve the heart function of mice with HF and reduce cardiac lipotoxicity. The cardio-protective effects of NGR1 are mediated by the activation of AMPK pathway.

Interactions Between Phenolic Acids and Microorganisms in Rhizospheric Soil From Continuous Cropping of Panax notoginseng

Large-scale intensive cultivation has made continuous cropping soil sickness more serious for Panax notoginseng in Yunnan. Autotoxic substances can promote the occurrence of continuous cropping soil sickness. Phenolic acids exert a strong autotoxic effect on P. notoginseng. Based on UPLC-MS/MS, the levels of six phenolic acids with the strongest autotoxicity of P. notoginseng rhizospheric soil were tested. Based on Illumina MiSeq high-throughput sequencing technology, the variation in the microbial diversity in the rhizospheric soil was used as an index to explore the interactions between phenolic acids and the soil microorganisms of the P. notoginseng rhizosphere. (1) Continuous P. notoginseng cropping significantly changed the microbial community structure. Continuous cropping increased bacterial Chao1 index and Shannon index and decreased fungal Shannon index. After P. notoginseng disease, bacterial Shannon index reduced and fungal Chao1 index decreased. (2) Phenolic acid significantly changed the bacterial community structure. VA significantly reduced the bacterial Shannon index. Exogenous p-HA, FA, SA, and VA significantly increased the fungal Chao1 index and p-HA showed the most significant effect. Para-HA affected bacterial specificity, and VA affected fungal specificity. (3) VA was positively correlated with most fungi and bacteria. Para-HA was positively correlated with Lelliottia and Flavobacterium. Para-HA was also positively correlated with plant pathogens (Fusarium and Ilyonectria). Para-HA and VA were able to promote the growth of primary pathogenic bacteria. Thus, p-HA and VA are the main phenolic acid-autotoxin substances in P. notoginseng under continuous cropping. (4) A correlation analysis of soil environmental factors associated with fungal and bacterial communities showed that AK, TN, OM, and HN were most strongly correlated with soil microorganisms. (5) The microorganisms in the rhizosphere of 3-year-old soil planted with P. notoginseng exhibited obvious effects on the degradation of the four phenolic acids. The effect of soil microorganisms on phenolic acids was first-order kinetic degradation with a high degradation rate and a half-life of less than 4.5 h. The results showed that phenolic acids could promote the growth of pathogenic bacteria. And the interaction between rhizospheric soil microorganisms and phenolic acids was the main cause of the disturbance of P. notoginseng rhizosphere microflora.

Protective effects of the notoginsenoside R1 on acute lung injury by regulating the miR-128-2-5p/Tollip signaling pathway in rats with severe acute pancreatitis

Notoginsenoside R1 (NG-R1), the extract and the main ingredient of Panax notoginseng, has anti-inflammatory effects and can be used in treating acute lung injury (ALI). In this study, we explored the pulmonary protective effect and the underlying mechanism of the NG-R1 on rats with ALI induced by severe acute pancreatitis (SAP). MiR-128-2-5p, ERK1, Tollip, HMGB1, TLR4, IκB, and NF-κB mRNA expression levels were measured using real-time qPCR, and TLR4, Tollip, HMGB1, IRAK1, MyD88, ERK1, NF-κB65, and P-IκB-α protein expression levels using Western blot. The NF-κB and the TLR4 activities were determined using immunohistochemistry, and TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, and ICAM-1 levels in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) using ELISA. Lung histopathological changes were observed in each group. NG-R1 treatment reduced miR-128-2-5p expression in the lung tissue, increased Tollip expression, inhibited HMGB1, TLR4, TRAF6, IRAK1, MyD88, NF-κB65, and p-IκB-α expression levels, suppressed NF-κB65 and the TLR4 expression levels, reduced MPO activity, reduced TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and ICAM-1 levels in BALF, and alleviated SAP-induced ALI. NG-R1 can attenuate SAP-induced ALI. The mechanism of action may be due to a decreased expression of miR-128-2-5p, increased activity of the Tollip signaling pathway, decreased activity of HMGB1/TLR4 and ERK1 signaling pathways, and decreased inflammatory response to SAP-induced ALI. Tollip was the regulatory target of miR-128-2-5p.

Recent advances in nanoplatforms for the treatment of neuropathic pain

STUDY DESIGN

Narrative review.

OBJECTIVES

The objective was to summarize the literature on nanoplatforms in spinal cord injury (SCI) and describe their effect in facilitating experiments for SCI. Currently, the primary clinical treatment for neuropathic pain (NP) is drug therapy, but these traditional drugs have many disadvantages, such as high dose, rapid clearance from the circulatory system, off-target side effects, and cytotoxicity. Moreover, the treatment for NP is complicated by the existence of blood-brain barrier. In recent years, nanomedicine has been receiving increased attention; this novel modality could help deliver drugs to treat NP via nanoplatforms, making it a promising alternative therapy. The use of nanoplatforms can enhance pharmaceutic effectiveness by either avoiding rapid clearance from the blood or ensuring adequate concentration in the lesion.

METHODS

A literature review was conducted, with a focus on nanoplatforms that have been described in the experimental studies of neuropathic pain.

RESULTS

We provide a brief description of the roles of liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, metal nanoparticles, micelles, and dendrimers in the treatment of NP and discuss the prospective development of the nanoplatform system for NP.

CONCLUSION

The emergence of various nanoplatform drug delivery systems can provide an advantageous resource tool for real-time diagnosis and effective treatment of SCI-related NP.

Triptolide regulates oxidative stress and inflammation leading to hepatotoxicity via inducing CYP2E1

Triptolide (TP), the main active compound extracted from medicine-tripterygium wilfordii Hook f. (TWHF). It has anti-tumor and immunomodulatory properties. Our study aimed to investigate the mechanisms of hepatotoxicity treated with TP in vivo and in vitro, as well as their relationship with the NF-κB (p65) signal pathway; and to assess TP-induced hepatotoxicity after CYP2E1 modulation by the known inhibitor, clomethiazole, and the known inducer, pyrazole. Mice were given TP to cause liver injury and IHHA-1 cells were given TP to cause hepatocyte injury. The enzyme activity and hepatotoxicity changed dramatically when the CYP2E1 inhibitor and inducer were added. In comparison to the control group, the enzyme inducer increased the activity of CYP2E1, whereas the enzyme inhibitor had the opposite effect. Our findings suggest that TP is an inducer of CYP2E1 via a time-dependent activation mechanism. In addition, TP can promote oxidative stress, inflammatory and involving the NF-κB (p65) signal pathway. Therefore, we used triptolide to stimulate C57 mice and IHHA-1 cells to determine whether TP can promote oxidative stress and inflammation by activating CYP2E1 in response to exacerbated liver damage and participate in NF-κB (p65) signaling pathway.

Koninginin W, a New Polyketide from the Endophytic Fungus Trichoderma koningiopsis YIM PH30002

A new compound named koninginin W (1) and four known polyketides (2-5) were isolated from endophytic fungus Trichoderma koningiopsis YIM PH30002 of Panax notoginseng. The structures of 1 - 5, including absolute configuration of 1, were elucidated on the detailed analysis of the HR-ESI-MS, 1D and 2D NMR, and X-ray crystallographic data. Koninginin W (1) presented weak antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis and Salmonella typhimurium.

Anti-Obesity Effect of Fermented Panax notoginseng Is Mediated Via Modulation of Appetite and Gut Microbial Population

Panax notoginseng (PN) is a traditional herbal medicine containing several active compounds such as saponins and ginsenosides with many therapeutic applications including anti-obesity activity. Fermentation by lactic acid bacteria has the potential to metabolize ginsenosides to more active forms. This study examined whether fermentation has any benefits on the protective effects of a PN extract against obesity using a high-fat diet (HFD)-fed mouse model. PN was fermented with Lactobacillus plantarum which exhibited high β-glucosidase activity. Upon fermentation, the PN extract exhibited an altered ginsenoside profile, a dramatic increase in the lactate level. Treatment of the HFD group with fermented PN (FPN), but not PN, decreased both the food and calorie intake significantly, which was consistent with the more potent suppressing effects of FPN than PN on the signaling pathways involved in appetite and energy intake. The PN treatment also modulated the gut microbial composition. The PN and FPN treatment groups showed clear differences in the population of gut microbiota. The relative abundance of Bacteroidetes, Erysipelotrichaceae, Coprococus, and Dehalobacterium were significantly higher in the FPN group then the normal, HFD, and XEN groups. Furthermore, the relative abundances of Akkermansia, Dehalobacterium, Erysipeliotrichaceae and parpabacteroides were significantly higher in the FPN group than the PN group, but the relative abundances of Allobaculum, Erysipelotrichi and Erysipelotrichale were significantly lower. The relative abundance of Bacteroides and Lactococcus was significantly higher and lower, respectively in the PN and FPN groups than the HFD group. In conclusion, the altered ginsenoside and organic acid's profile, and altered gut microbial composition are believed to be the major factors contributing to the anti-obesity properties of FPN.

Effects of ginsenoside Rb1 on second-degree burn wound healing and FGF-2/PDGF-BB/PDGFR-β pathway modulation

Background

Panax notoginseng (Burk.) F. H. Chen (P. notoginseng) is a traditional Chinese medicine that has been used therapeutically for cardiovascular diseases, inflammatory diseases and traumatic injuries as well as for external and internal bleeding due to injury. Ginsenoside Rb1, a crucial monomeric active constituent extracted from P. notoginseng, has attracted widespread attention because of its potential anti-inflammatory, bacteriostatic, and cell growth-promoting effects. In this study, the therapeutic effects of ginsenoside Rb1 on second-degree burn in rats and the potential underlying mechanisms were explored.

Methods

A rat model of second-degree burn injury was established, and skin wound healing was monitored at different time points after ginsenoside Rb1 treatment. HE staining was performed to identify burn severity, and biological tissues were biopsied on days 0, 7, 14, and 24 after treatment. Skin wound healing at different time points was monitored by macroscopic observation. Furthermore, IHC, WB, and RT-PCR were utilized to determine the protein and mRNA expression levels of PDGF-BB, PDGFR-β, and FGF-2 in wound tissues after treatment.

Results

HE staining showed that after 24 days of ginsenoside Rb1 treatment, skin tissue morphology was significant improved. Macroscopic observation demonstrated that in ginsenoside Rb1-treated rats, the scab removal time and fur growth time were decreased, and the wound healing rate was increased. Collectively, the results of IHC, WB and RT-PCR showed that PDGF-BB, PDGFR-β, and FGF-2 expressions peaked earlier in ginsenoside Rb1-treated rats than in model rats, consistent with the macroscopic observations.

Conclusion

Collectively, these findings  indicated that ginsenoside Rb1 promotes burn wound healing via a mechanism possibly associated with upregulation of FGF-2/PDGF-BB/PDGFR-β gene and protein expressions.

Network pharmacology reveals pharmacological effect and mechanism of Panax notoginseng (Burk.) F. H. Chen on reproductive and genetic toxicity in male mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Cisplatin (CP), one of the most commonly used antitumor drugs in clinic, could induce reproductive and genetic toxicity. Traditional Chinese medicine believed that this side effect might be caused by the deficiency of both qi and blood. Panax notoginseng (Burk.) F. H. Chen (PN) is a traditional precious Chinese medicine for nourishing blood and hemostasis, which had the synergistic antitumor and reducing toxicity effects. However, the protective effect and mechanism of PN on CP-induced reproductive and genetic toxicity were still unknown.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study was designed to illuminate the possible protective effect and mechanism of PN on CP-induced reproductive and genetic toxicity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Network pharmacology was first applied to analyze the potential components and targets of PN against CP-induced reproductive and genetic toxicity. Then, the results of network pharmacology were validated in a mouse model of reproductive and genotoxicity induced by CP. Body weight, testis weight, epididymis weight, sperm count, sperm viability and sperm morphology were used to assess protective effects of PN on CP-induced reproductive toxicity. Tail moment in peripheral blood cells and micronucleus in bone marrow cells were used to assess protective effects of PN on CP-induced genetic toxicity. Finally, possible protective targets obtained from network pharmacology, including 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), malondialdehyde (MDA), total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), were experimentally validated by ELISA.

RESULTS

One hundred and nineteen components of PN and sixty-eight targets of reproductive/genetic toxicity were acquired and constituted as the component-target network. Network pharmacology analysis showed alleviating oxidative stress might play important role in therapeutic mechanism of PN. In verified experiments, PN significantly improved the decline of body weight, testis weight and epididymis weight, increased sperm count and viability, decreased abnormal sperm morphology rate induced by CP in mice. Moreover, PN also significantly decreased the tail moment in peripheral blood cells and micronucleus formation rate in bone marrow cells in CP-induced mice. Finally, not only the decrease of T-SOD and GSH-Px level but also the increase of 8-OHdG and MDA level in serum were restored under PN treatment.

CONCLUSION

Current study found that PN could improve CP-induced reproductive and genetic toxicity, which were probably attributed to alleviating oxidative stress. This finding provided the new perspective for understanding the therapeutic effect of PN on CP-induced reproductive and genetic toxicity and facilitating the clinical use of PN.

High-level sustainable production of the characteristic protopanaxatriol-type saponins from Panax species in engineered Saccharomyces cerevisiae

The Chinese medicinal plant Panax notoginseng has been traditionally used to activate blood flow and circulation, and to prevent blood stasis. P. notoginseng contains protopanaxatriol (PPT)-type saponins as its main active compounds, thus distinguishing it from the other two famous Panax species, P. ginseng and P. quinquefolius. Ginsenoside Rg1 (Rg1), notoginsenoside R1 (NgR1), and notoginsenoside R2 (NgR2) are three major PPT-type saponins in P. notoginseng and possess potential cardiovascular protection activities. However, their use in medical applications has long been hampered by the lack of sustainable and low-cost industrial-scale preparation methods. In this study, a PPT-producing yeast chassis strain was designed and constructed based on a previously constructed and optimized protopanaxadiol (PPD)-producing Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain, and further optimized by systemically engineering and optimizing the expression level of its key P450 biopart. Rg1-producing yeast strains were constructed by introducing PgUGT71A53 and PgUGT71A54 into the PPT chassis strain. The fermentation titer of Rg1 reached 1.95 g/L. A group of UDP-glycosyltransferases (UGT) from P. notoginseng and P. ginseng were characterized, and were found to generate NgR1 and NgR2 by catalyzing the C₆-O-Glc xylosylation of Rg1 and Rh1, respectively. Using one of these UGTs, PgUGT94Q13, and the previously identified PgUGT71A53 and PgUGT71A54, the biosynthetic pathway to produce saponins NgR1 and NgR2 from PPT could be available. The NgR1 cell factory was further developed by introducing PgUGT94Q13 and a heterologous UDP-xylose biosynthetic pathway from Arabidopsis thaliana into the highest Rg1-producing cell factory. The NgR2-producing cell factory was constructed by introducing PgUGT71A54, PgUGT94Q13, and the UDP-xylose biosynthetic pathway into the PPT chassis. De novo production of NgR1 and NgR2 reached 1.62 g/L and 1.25 g/L, respectively. Beyond the realization of artificial production of the three valuable saponins Rg1, NgR1, and NgR2 from glucose, our work provides a green and sustainable platform for the efficient production of other PPT-type saponins in engineered yeast strains, and promotes the industrial application of PPT-type saponins as medicine and functional foods.

Panax notoginseng Saponins Modulate the Inflammatory Response and Improve IBD-Like Symptoms via TLR/NF-[Formula: see text]B and MAPK Signaling Pathways

Panax notoginseng saponins (PNS) are the main active ingredients of Panax notoginseng (Burk) F. H. Chen, which are used as traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years and have various clinical effects, including anti-inflammation, anti-oxidation, and cardiovascular protection. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a complex gastrointestinal inflammatory disease that cannot be cured completely nowadays. The anti-inflammatory and protective effects of PNS were analyzed in vitro and in dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis mouse model. PNS inhibited the release of nitric oxide (NO), tumor necrosis factor-[Formula: see text] (TNF-[Formula: see text], interleukin-6 (IL-6), and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) in Pam3CSK4-induced RAW 264.7 macrophages. In the animal study, compared with DSS-induced mice, PNS reduced the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-[Formula: see text], IL-6, and MCP-1) in the colon tissues. Furthermore, PNS treatment led to a remarkable reduction in the activation of the inhibitor of nuclear factor kappa-B kinase [Formula: see text]/[Formula: see text] (IKK[Formula: see text]/[Formula: see text], I[Formula: see text]B[Formula: see text] and p65 induced by DSS. On the other hand, PNS inhibited the phosphorylation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), p38, and extracellular regulated protein kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2). Taken together, our results suggested that PNS conferred profound protection for colitis mice through the downregulation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and NF-[Formula: see text]B signaling pathways, which were associated with reducing inflammatory responses, alleviating tissue damage, and maintaining of intestinal integrity and functionality.

Competing Endogenous RNA Networks as Biomarkers in Neurodegenerative Diseases

Protein aggregation is classically considered the main cause of neuronal death in neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs). However, increasing evidence suggests that alteration of RNA metabolism is a key factor in the etiopathogenesis of these complex disorders. Non-coding RNAs are the major contributor to the human transcriptome and are particularly abundant in the central nervous system, where they have been proposed to be involved in the onset and development of NDDs. Interestingly, some ncRNAs (such as lncRNAs, circRNAs and pseudogenes) share a common functionality in their ability to regulate gene expression by modulating miRNAs in a phenomenon known as the competing endogenous RNA mechanism. Moreover, ncRNAs are found in body fluids where their presence and concentration could serve as potential non-invasive biomarkers of NDDs. In this review, we summarize the ceRNA networks described in Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and spinocerebellar ataxia type 7, and discuss their potential as biomarkers of these NDDs. Although numerous studies have been carried out, further research is needed to validate these complex interactions between RNAs and the alterations in RNA editing that could provide specific ceRNET profiles for neurodegenerative disorders, paving the way to a better understanding of these diseases.

Panax notoginseng for Cerebral Ischemia: A Systematic Review

Panax notoginseng is the most widely used Chinese medicinal herb for the prevention and treatment of ischemic diseases. Its main active ingredients are saponins, including ginsenoside Rb1, ginsenoside Rg1, and notoginsenoside R1, among others. This review provides an up-to-date overview on the pharmacological roles of P. notoginseng constituents in cerebral ischemia. The saponins of P. notoginseng induce a variety of pharmacological effects in the multiscale mechanisms of cerebral ischemic pathophysiology, including anti-inflammatory activity, reduction of oxidative stress, anti-apoptosis, inhibition of amino acid excitotoxicity, reduction of intracellular calcium overload, protection of mitochondria, repairing the blood-brain barrier, and facilitation of cell regeneration. Regarding cell regeneration, P. notoginseng not only promotes the proliferation and differentiation of neural stem cells, but also protects neurons, endothelial cells and astrocytes in cerebral ischemia. In conclusion, P. notoginseng may treat cerebrovascular diseases through multiple pharmacological effects, and the most critical ones need further investigation.

Effects of Herbal Medicines on Pain Management

Pain is an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience in many diseases and is often caused by intense or damaging stimuli. Pain negatively affects the quality of life and increases high health expenditures. Drugs with analgesic properties are commonly used to relieve pain, but these Western medications could be overwhelmed by side effects including tolerance and addiction. Herbal medicines may provide alternative measures for pain management. In this review paper, after introduction of Chinese medicine theory and treatment modality, emphasis is placed on the application of Chinese herbs and herbal formulations in pain management. Three of the most commonly used herbs, i.e., Corydalis yanhusuo, Ligusticum chuanxiong, and Aconitum carmichaeli, are reviewed. Subsequently, using this ancient medical remedy, Chinese herbal formulation in treating common medical conditions associated with pain, such as headache/migraine, chest pain, abdominal pain, low back pain, neuropathic pain, osteoarthritis, and cancer pain, is presented. Chinese herbal medicines could be considered as a complementary and integrative approach in the modern armamentarium in combating pain.

Chinese herbal medicines for prevention and treatment of colorectal cancer: From molecular mechanisms to potential clinical applications

Worldwide, colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common malignant tumors, leading to immense social and economic burdens. Currently, the main treatments for CRC include surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and immunotherapy. Despite advances in the diagnosis and treatment of CRC, the prognosis for CRC patients remains poor. Furthermore, the occurrence of side effects and toxicities severely limits the clinical use of these therapies. Therefore, alternative medications with high efficacy but few side effects are needed. An increasing number of modern pharmacological studies and clinical trials have supported the effectiveness of Chinese herbal medicines (CHMs) for the prevention and treatment of CRC. CHMs may be able to effectively reduce the risk of CRC, alleviate the adverse reactions caused by chemotherapy, and prolong the survival time of patients with advanced CRC. Studies of molecular mechanisms have provided deeper insight into the roles of molecules from CHMs in treating CRC. This paper summarizes the current understanding of the use of CHMs for the prevention and treatment of CRC, the main molecular mechanisms involved in these processes, the role of CHMs in modulating chemotherapy-induced adverse reactions, and CHM's potential role in epigenetic regulation of CRC. The current study provides beneficial information on the use of CHMs for the prevention and treatment of CRC in the clinic, and suggests novel directions for new drug discovery against CRC.

The Role of Th17/Treg Axis in the Traditional Chinese Medicine Intervention on Immune-Mediated Inflammatory Diseases: A Systematic Review

The Th17/Treg axis plays a crucial role in immune-mediated inflammatory diseases (IMID) and might represent an interesting drug target of treatment strategy for these diseases. Accumulating evidence suggests a role for traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in the modulation of Th17/Treg axis, but a comprehensive overview which summarizes this field hitherto is lacked. This paper performs a systematic literature review of the regulatory effects of TCM on the imbalance of Th17/Treg axis and its potential mechanisms. In addition, the frequency analysis and network pharmacology for the collected TCM herbs from clinical trial data were performed. The studies reported the changes in the ratio of Th17 and/or Treg cells as well as their transcription factor and related cytokines were included. Frequency analysis of composition of the 39 assessed TCM prescriptions showed that Astragalus membranaceus var.mongholicus (5.20%), Glycyrrhiza uralensis (3.67%), Paeonia obovate (3.06%), Salvia digitaloides (3.06%), and Angelica sinensis (2.75%) were the top five herbal components, which were closely associated to the treatment of IMID. Network pharmacology showed that six target proteins (transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta receptor type-1, TGF-beta receptor type-2, retineic-acid-receptor-related orphan nuclear receptor gamma (ROR-gamma), TGFB2, IL-17 and IL-2, respectively) might be involved in the regulatory effects of TCM on Th17/Treg axis. Moreover, there were nine active ingredients (including Oxymatrine, Baicalin, Triptolide, Paeoniflorin, Sinomenine, Celastrol, Emodin, Diosgenin and Chlorogenic acid) originating from TCM reported to have an immunological regulation effect on the Th17/Treg axis. The highlight of this systematic review is to reveal the pharmacological basis of TCM treating IMID and is helpful for supporting future pharmacologic-driven studies. Further research elucidates the immune-modulating mechanisms on Th17/Treg axis by TCM might provide a broader insight for the treatment of IMID.

Focus on Notoginsenoside R1 in Metabolism and Prevention Against Human Diseases

Notoginsenoside (NG)-R1 is one of the main bioactive compounds from Panax notoginseng (PN) root, which is well known in the prescription for mediating the micro-circulatory hemostasis in human. In this article, we mainly discuss NG-R1 in metabolism and the biological activities, including cardiovascular protection, neuro-protection, anti-diabetes, liver protection, gastrointestinal protection, lung protection, bone metabolism regulation, renal protection, and anti-cancer. The metabolites produced by deglycosylation of NG-R1 exhibit higher permeability and bioavailability. It has been extensively verified that NG-R1 may ameliorate ischemia-reperfusion (IR)-induced injury in cardiovascular and neuronal systems mainly by upregulating the activity of estrogen receptor α-dependent phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT) and nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 (NRF2) pathways and downregulating nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways. However, no specific targets for NG-R1 have been identified. Expectedly, NG-R1 has been used as a main bioactive compound in many Traditional Chinese Medicines clinically, such as Xuesaitong, Naodesheng, XueShuanTong, ShenMai, and QSYQ. These suggest that NG-R1 exhibits a significant potency in drug development.

New Dammarane-Type Triterpenoid Saponins from Panax notoginseng Leaves and Their Nitric Oxide Inhibitory Activities

Inflammation is a very common and important pathological process that can cause many diseases. The discovery of anti-inflammatory drugs and the treatment of inflammation are particularly essential. Dammarane-type triterpenoid saponins (PNS) were demonstrated to show anti-inflammatory effects in the leaves of Panax notoginseng. Chromatographies and spectral analysis methods were combined to isolate and identify PNS. Moreover, the nitric oxide (NO) inhibitory activities of all compounds were examined in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW264.7 cells. As a result, eleven new dammarane-type triterpenoid saponins, notoginsenosides NL-A1-NL-A4 (1-4), NL-B1-NL-B3 (5-7), NL-C1-NL-C3 (8-10), and NL-D (11) were isolated, and their structures were identified by using various spectrometric techniques and chemical reactions. Among them, compounds 4 and 11 were characterized by the malonyl substitution at 3-position. The 3-malonyl substituted dammarane-type terpennoids were first obtained from natural products. In addition, compounds 1, 2, 5, 6, and 8-10 were found to play an important role in suppressing NO levels at 50 μM, without cytotoxicity. All inhibitory activities were found to be dose-dependent.

Enhanced Neuroprotective Effects of Panax ginseng G115® and Ginkgo biloba GK501® Combinations In Vitro Models of Excitotoxicity

Neurological-related disorders are seen as an increasingly important aspect of welfare. While conventional medicine is still the mainstay for the treatment of these diseases, it is becoming apparent that patients are also seeking more natural and preventative interventions. Panax ginseng G115^® and Ginkgo biloba GK501^® extracts alone or in combination were used in two in vitro experimental models of primary cultures exposed to excitotoxicity: rat organotypic hippocampal slices exposed to either 5 µM kainic acid or 10 µM N-Methyl-d-aspartate for 24 hours, and mixed cortical cells exposed to 300 µM NMDA for 10 min. Cell death in the Cornu Ammonis areas CA3 or CA1 subregions of slices was quantified by measuring propidium iodide fluorescence, whereas in cortical cells, it was assessed by measuring the amount of lactate dehydrogenase. In slices, treatment with extracts alone or in combination significantly attenuated CA3 and CA1 damage induced by exposure to kainic acid or NMDA, respectively. A similar neuroprotective effect was observed in cortical cells exposed to NMDA. Analysis of cell signaling pathways found that the two extracts induced an increase of the phosphorylation and they reversed the decrease of phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and Akt induced by kainic acid and NMDA in organotypic hippocampal slices. These results suggest that P. ginseng G115^® and G. biloba GK501^® extracts may mediate their effects by activating phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and Akt signaling pathways, protecting against excitotoxicity-induced damage in in vitro models.