1
|
Kantasrila R, Pandith H, Balslev H, Wangpakapattanawong P, Panyadee P, Inta A. Ethnobotany and phytochemistry of plants used to treat musculoskeletal disorders among Skaw Karen, Thailand. PHARMACEUTICAL BIOLOGY 2024; 62:62-104. [PMID: 38131672 PMCID: PMC10763916 DOI: 10.1080/13880209.2023.2292261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Musculoskeletal system disorders (MSD) are prevalent around the world affecting the health of people, especially farmers who work hard in the field. Karen farmers use many medicinal plants to treat MSD. OBJECTIVE This study collects traditional plant-based remedies used by the Skaw Karen to treat MSD and evaluates their active phytochemical compounds. MATERIALS AND METHODS The ethnobotanical study was conducted in six Karen villages in Chiang Mai province using semi-structured interviews were of 120 informants. The data were analyzed using ethnobotanical indices including use values (UV), choice value (CV), and informant consensus factor (ICF). Consequently, the 20 most important species, according to the indices, were selected for phytochemical analysis using LC-MS/MS. RESULTS A total of 3731 use reports were obtained for 139 species used in MSD treatment. The most common ailments treated with those plants were muscular pain. A total of 172 high-potential active compounds for MSD treatment were identified. Most of them were flavonoids, terpenoids, alkaloids, and steroids. The prevalent phytochemical compounds related to treat MSD were 9-hydroxycalabaxanthone, dihydrovaltrate, morroniside, isoacteoside, lithocholic acid, pomiferin, cucurbitacin E, leonuriside A, liriodendrin, and physalin E. Sambucus javanica Reinw. ex Blume (Adoxaceae), Betula alnoides Buch.-Ham. ex D.Don (Betulaceae), Blumea balsamifera (L.) DC. (Asteraceae), Plantago major L. (Plantaginaceae) and Flacourtia jangomas (Lour.) Raeusch. (Salicaceae) all had high ethnobotanical index values and many active compounds. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS This study provides valuable information, demonstrating low-cost medicine plants that are locally available. It is a choice of treatment for people living in remote areas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rapeeporn Kantasrila
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Thailand
- The Botanical Garden Organization, Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | | | - Henrik Balslev
- Department of Biology, Aarhus University, Aarhus C, Denmark
| | | | - Prateep Panyadee
- The Botanical Garden Organization, Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Angkhana Inta
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Thailand
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Zhou S, Li W, Lv R, Zhang M, Liu W. Neuroprotective effects and mechanisms of action of artemisinin in retinal ganglion cells in a mouse model of traumatic optic neuropathy. Heliyon 2024; 10:e31378. [PMID: 38828288 PMCID: PMC11140598 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e31378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Traumatic optic neuropathy is known to be a critical condition that can cause blindness; however, the specific mechanism underlying optic nerve injury is unclear. Recent studies have reported that artemisinin, considered vital in malaria treatment, can also be used to treat neurodegenerative diseases; however, its precise role and mechanism of action remain unknown. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to investigate the impact and probable mechanism of action of artemisinin in retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) in a mouse model of traumatic optic neuropathy induced by optic nerve crush (ONC). Methods ONC was induced in the left eye of mice by short-term clamping of the optic nerve; oral artemisinin was administered daily. The neuroprotective effect of the drug was assessed using Tuj-1 staining in RGCs. In addition, the inflammatory response and the expression levels of phosphorylated tau protein and tau oligomers were observed using RT-qPCR, TUNEL assay, and fluorescence staining to investigate the underlying mechanisms. Results Artemisinin increased the survival rate of RGCs 14 days after ONC. Artemisinin significantly reduced the levels of inflammatory factors such as CXCL10, CXCR3, and IL-1β in the retina and decreased the apoptosis of RGCs. Moreover, downregulation of the phosphorylation of tau proteins and the expression of tau oligomers were observed after artemisinin treatment. Conclusion Our results suggest that artemisinin can increase the survival rate of RGCs after ONC and reduce their apoptosis. This effect may be achieved by inhibiting the inflammatory response it triggers and downregulating tau protein phosphorylation and tau oligomer expression. These findings suggest the potential application of artemisinin as a therapeutic agent for neuropathy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shirui Zhou
- Department of Ophthalmology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Wangzi Li
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ruohan Lv
- Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - MingChang Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Kiss E, Kins S, Gorgas K, Venczel Szakács KH, Kirsch J, Kuhse J. Another Use for a Proven Drug: Experimental Evidence for the Potential of Artemisinin and Its Derivatives to Treat Alzheimer's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4165. [PMID: 38673751 PMCID: PMC11049906 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25084165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Plant-derived multitarget compounds may represent a promising therapeutic strategy for multifactorial diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). Artemisinin and its derivatives were indicated to beneficially modulate various aspects of AD pathology in different AD animal models through the regulation of a wide range of different cellular processes, such as energy homeostasis, apoptosis, proliferation and inflammatory pathways. In this review, we aimed to provide an up-to-date overview of the experimental evidence documenting the neuroprotective activities of artemi-sinins to underscore the potential of these already-approved drugs for treating AD also in humans and propose their consideration for carefully designed clinical trials. In particular, the benefits to the main pathological hallmarks and events in the pathological cascade throughout AD development in different animal models of AD are summarized. Moreover, dose- and context-dependent effects of artemisinins are noted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eva Kiss
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; (K.G.); (J.K.)
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science and Technology of Târgu Mures, 540142 Târgu Mures, Romania;
| | - Stefan Kins
- Department of Human Biology and Human Genetics, University of Kaiserslautern, 69120 Kaiserslautern, Germany;
| | - Karin Gorgas
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; (K.G.); (J.K.)
| | - Kinga Hajnal Venczel Szakács
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science and Technology of Târgu Mures, 540142 Târgu Mures, Romania;
| | - Joachim Kirsch
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; (K.G.); (J.K.)
| | - Jochen Kuhse
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; (K.G.); (J.K.)
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Wen Q, Wang C, Chen D, Luo N, Fan J, Zhou Y, Yu X, Chen W. Proteomics-Based Identification of Potential Therapeutic Targets of Artesunate in a Lupus Nephritis MRL/lpr Mouse Model. J Proteome Res 2024; 23:1150-1162. [PMID: 38394376 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.3c00558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to identify potential therapeutic targets of artesunate in an MRL/lpr lupus nephritis mouse model by quantitative proteomics. We detected serum autoimmune markers and proteinuria in 40 female mice that were divided into 4 groups (n = 10): normal C57BL/6 control group; untreated MRL/lpr lupus; 9 mg/kg/day prednisone positive control MRL/lpr lupus; and 15 mg/kg/day artesunate-treated MRL/lpr lupus groups. Renal pathology in the untreated MRL/lpr lupus and artesunate groups was examined by Periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) staining. Artesunate treatment in lupus mice decreased serum autoantibody levels and proteinuria while alleviating lupus nephritis pathology. Through tandem mass tag-tandem mass spectrometry (TMT-MS/MS) analyses, differentially expressed proteins were identified in the artesunate group, and subsequent functional prediction suggested associations with antigen presentation, apoptosis, and immune regulation. Data are available via ProteomeXchange with the identifier PXD046815. Parallel reaction monitoring (PRM) analysis of the top 19 selected proteins confirmed the TMT-MS/MS results. Immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, and Western blotting of an enriched protein from PRM analysis, cathepsin S, linked to antigen presentation, highlighted its upregulation in the untreated MRL/lpr lupus group and downregulation following artesunate treatment. This study suggests that artesunate holds potential as a therapeutic agent for lupus nephritis, with cathepsin S identified as a potential target.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qiong Wen
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Clinical Nephrology (Sun Yat-Sen University) and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Nephrology, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Cong Wang
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Clinical Nephrology (Sun Yat-Sen University) and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Nephrology, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Dongni Chen
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Clinical Nephrology (Sun Yat-Sen University) and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Nephrology, Guangzhou 510080, China
- Department of Nephrology, Center of Kidney and Urology, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518000, China
| | - Ning Luo
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Clinical Nephrology (Sun Yat-Sen University) and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Nephrology, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Jinjin Fan
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Clinical Nephrology (Sun Yat-Sen University) and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Nephrology, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Yi Zhou
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Clinical Nephrology (Sun Yat-Sen University) and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Nephrology, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Xueqing Yu
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Clinical Nephrology (Sun Yat-Sen University) and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Nephrology, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Wei Chen
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Clinical Nephrology (Sun Yat-Sen University) and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Nephrology, Guangzhou 510080, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Tripathi N, Saraf P, Bhardwaj N, Shrivastava SK, Jain SK. Identifying inflammation-related targets of natural lactones using network pharmacology, molecular modeling and in vitro approaches. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2024:1-16. [PMID: 38334283 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2024.2310783] [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: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Natural lactones have been used in traditional and folklore medicine for centuries owing to their anti-inflammatory properties. The study uses a multifaceted approach to identify lead anti-inflammatory lactones from the SISTEMATX natural products database. The study analyzed the natural lactone database, revealing 18 lactones linked to inflammation targets. The primary targets were PTGES, PTGS1, COX-2, ALOX5 and IL1B. STX 12273 was the best hit, with the lowest binding energy and potential for inhibiting the COX-2 enzyme. The study suggested natural lactone, STX 12273, from the SISTEMATX database with anti-inflammatory potential and postulated its use for inflammation treatment or prevention.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nancy Tripathi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology (BHU), Varanasi, India
| | - Poorvi Saraf
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology (BHU), Varanasi, India
| | - Nivedita Bhardwaj
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology (BHU), Varanasi, India
| | - Sushant Kumar Shrivastava
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology (BHU), Varanasi, India
| | - Shreyans K Jain
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology (BHU), Varanasi, India
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Elgendy DI, Elmahy RA, Amer AIM, Ibrahim HA, Eltantawy AF, Mansour FR, Salama AM. Efficacy of artemether against toxocariasis in mice: parasitological and immunopathological changes in brain, liver, and lung. Pathog Glob Health 2024; 118:47-64. [PMID: 37978995 PMCID: PMC10769145 DOI: 10.1080/20477724.2023.2285182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxocariasis is a zoonosis that represents a serious threat to public health particularly in tropical and subtropical areas. Currently, albendazole, the most effective drug for treating visceral toxocariasis, shows moderate efficacy against the larvae in tissues and has some adverse effects. Artemether is an antiparasitic drug mainly used in the treatment of malaria and showed effectiveness against numerous helminthic infections. Besides, it possesses potent anti-inflammatory, antiapoptotic, antifibrotic, and neuroprotective properties. Thus, the study's aim was to investigate artemether's effects in comparison with albendazole on the therapeutic outcome of experimental toxocariasis. For this aim, 140 laboratory-bred mice were divided into four main groups: uninfected control, treatment control, albendazole-treated, and artemether-treated groups. The treatment regimens were started at the 15th dpi (early treatment), and at the 35th dpi (late treatment). The effectiveness of treatment was determined by brain larval count, histopathological, immunohistochemical, and biochemical examination. Artemether showed more effectiveness than albendazole in reducing brain larval counts, markers of brain injury including NF-κB, GFAP, and caspase-3, the diameter and number of hepatic granulomas, hepatic oxidative stress, hepatic IL-6, and TG2 mRNA, and pulmonary inflammation and fibrosis. The efficacy of artemether was the same when administered early or late in the infection. Finally, our findings illustrated that artemether might be a promising therapy for T. canis infection and it could be a good substitution for albendazole in toxocariasis treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dina I. Elgendy
- Medical Parasitology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Rasha A. Elmahy
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | | | - Hoda A. Ibrahim
- Medical Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Asmaa Fawzy Eltantawy
- Medical Pharmacology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Fotouh Rashed Mansour
- Pharmaceutical Analytical Chemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Amina M. Salama
- Medical Parasitology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Lim HS, Park G. Artemisinin protects dopaminergic neurons against 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine-induced neurotoxicity in a mouse model of Parkinson's disease. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 170:115972. [PMID: 38056239 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Artemisinin is an antimalarial drug that has been used for almost half a century. However, the anti-Parkinson's disease (PD) effects of artemisinin with respect to 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-induced oxidative stress have not yet been investigated while focusing on NF-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling. Thus, we sought to assess the behavioral and oxidative mechanistic effects of artemisinin on MPTP-induced toxicity via the Nrf2 signaling pathway. We explored this through immunohistochemical assays, ELISA, in differentiated PC12 cells treated with siRNA, and with a PD mouse model. Artemisinin increased Nrf2 DNA-binding activity and HO-1 and NQO1 expression. Artemisinin treatment protected cells against MPP+ -induced neuronal death signaling, including NADH dehydrogenase activity, reactive oxygen species, mitochondrial membrane potential, and cleaved caspase-3. Moreover, it protected cells against MPTP-induced behavioral impairments and significantly reduced dopaminergic neuronal loss. Additionally, Nrf2 pre-inhibition using ML385 neutralized the inhibitory effects of artemisinin on dopaminergic neuronal damage and behavioral impairments induced by MPTP. Our results suggest that artemisinin inhibits MPTP-induced behavioral and neurotoxic effects in mice. This provides a foundation for further research to evaluate artemisinin as a potential therapeutic agent for PD.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Rats
- Mice
- Animals
- Parkinson Disease/drug therapy
- 1-Methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine/metabolism
- 1-Methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine/pharmacology
- 1-Methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine/therapeutic use
- Dopaminergic Neurons
- NF-E2-Related Factor 2/metabolism
- Neuroprotective Agents/pharmacology
- Neuroprotective Agents/therapeutic use
- Neuroprotective Agents/metabolism
- Neurotoxicity Syndromes/metabolism
- Artemisinins/pharmacology
- Artemisinins/therapeutic use
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Disease Models, Animal
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hye-Sun Lim
- Herbal Medicine Resources Research Center, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, 111 Geonjae-ro, Naju-si, Jeollanam-do 58245, Republic of Korea
| | - Gunhyuk Park
- Herbal Medicine Resources Research Center, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, 111 Geonjae-ro, Naju-si, Jeollanam-do 58245, Republic of Korea; University of Science & Technology (UST), Korean Convergence Medicine Major, Campus of Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon 34113, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Huang Y, Yang Y, Liu G, Xu M. New clinical application prospects of artemisinin and its derivatives: a scoping review. Infect Dis Poverty 2023; 12:115. [PMID: 38072951 PMCID: PMC10712159 DOI: 10.1186/s40249-023-01152-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent research has suggested that artemisinin and its derivatives may have therapeutic effects on parasites, viruses, tumors, inflammation and skin diseases. This study aimed to review clinical research on artemisinin and its derivatives except anti-malaria and explore possible priority areas for future development. METHODS Relevant articles in English and Chinese published before 28 October 2021 were reviewed. All articles were retrieved and obtained from databases including WanFang, PubMed/MEDLINE, the Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge International, Embase, OpenGrey, the Grey Literature Report, Grey Horizon, and ClinicalTrials.gov. Studies were selected for final inclusion based on predefined criteria. Information was then extracted and analyzed by region, disease, outcome, and time to identify relevant knowledge gaps. RESULTS Seventy-seven studies on anti-parasitic (35), anti-tumor (16), anti-inflammatory (12), anti-viral (8), and dermatological treatments (7) focused on the safety and efficacy of artemisinin and its derivatives. The anti-parasitic clinical research developed rapidly, with a large number of trials, rapid clinical progress, and multiple research topics. In contrast, anti-viral research was limited and mainly stayed in phase I clinical trials (37.50%). Most of the studies were conducted in Asia (60%), followed by Africa (27%), Europe (8%), and the Americas (5%). Anti-parasite and anti-inflammatory research were mainly distributed in less developed continents such as Asia and Africa, while cutting-edge research such as anti-tumor has attracted more attention in Europe and the United States. At the safety level, 58 articles mentioned the adverse reactions of artemisinin and its derivatives, with only one study showing a Grade 3 adverse event, while the other studies did not show any related adverse reactions or required discontinuation. Most studies have discovered therapeutic effects of artemisinin or its derivatives on anti-parasitic (27), anti-tumor (9), anti-inflammatory (9) and dermatological treatment (6). However, the efficacy of artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs) for parasitic diseases (non-malaria) is still controversial. CONCLUSIONS Recent clinical studies suggest that artemisinin and its derivatives may be safe and effective candidates for anti-tumor, anti-parasitic, anti-inflammatory and dermatological drugs. More phase II/III clinical trials of artemisinin and its derivatives on antiviral effects are needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yangmu Huang
- School of Public Health, Peking University, 38 Xue Yuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China.
- Institute for Global Health and Development, Peking University, 38 Xue Yuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China.
| | - Yang Yang
- School of Public Health, Peking University, 38 Xue Yuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Guangqi Liu
- Energy Saving and Environmental Protection and Occupational Safety and Health Research Institute, China Academy of Railway Sciences Co., Ltd, No. 2 Daliushu Road, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Ming Xu
- School of Public Health, Peking University, 38 Xue Yuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China
- Institute for Global Health and Development, Peking University, 38 Xue Yuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Wang C, Han M, Li X, Lv J, Zhuang W, Xie L, Liu G, Saimaier K, Han S, Shi C, Hua Q, Zhang R, Jiang X, Wang G, Du C. TPN10475 alleviates concanavalin A-induced autoimmune hepatitis by limiting T cell development and function through inhibition of PI3K-AKT pathway. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 125:111110. [PMID: 37883813 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.111110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is an inflammatory liver disease in which the autoimmune system instigates an attack on the liver, causing inflammation and liver injury, and its incidence has increased worldwide in recent years. The mouse model of acute hepatitis established by concanavalin A (Con A) is a typical and recognized mouse model for the study of T-cell-dependent liver injury. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether the artemisinin derivative TPN10475 could alleviate AIH and its possible mechanisms. TPN10475 effectively inhibited lymphocyte proliferation and IFN-γ+ T cells production in vitro, alleviated liver injury by decreasing infiltrating inflammatory T cells producing IFN-γ in the liver and peripheral immune tissues, and demonstrated that TPN10475 weakened the activation and function of T cells by inhibiting PI3K-AKT signaling pathway. These results suggested that TPN10475 may be a potential drug for the treatment of AIH, and the inhibition of PI3K-AKT signaling pathway may provide new ideas for the study of the pathogenesis of AIH.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chun Wang
- Putuo People's Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Signaling and Disease Research, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Mengyao Han
- Putuo People's Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Signaling and Disease Research, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Xinhang Li
- Putuo People's Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Signaling and Disease Research, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Jie Lv
- Putuo People's Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Signaling and Disease Research, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Wei Zhuang
- Putuo People's Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Signaling and Disease Research, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China; National Laboratory of Biomacromolecules, CAS Center for Excellence in Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Ling Xie
- Putuo People's Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Signaling and Disease Research, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Guangyu Liu
- Putuo People's Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Signaling and Disease Research, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Kaidireya Saimaier
- Putuo People's Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Signaling and Disease Research, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Sanxing Han
- Putuo People's Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Signaling and Disease Research, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Changjie Shi
- Putuo People's Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Signaling and Disease Research, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Qiuhong Hua
- Putuo People's Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Signaling and Disease Research, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Ru Zhang
- Putuo People's Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Signaling and Disease Research, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Xiangrui Jiang
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China; CAS Key Laboratory for Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia, Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Guiying Wang
- Clinical and Translational Research Center of Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Signaling and Disease Research, Frontier Science Center for Stem Cell Research, National Stem Cell Translational Resource Center, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China.
| | - Changsheng Du
- Putuo People's Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Signaling and Disease Research, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Zou Q, Chen Y, Qin H, Tang R, Han T, Guo Z, Zhao J, Xu D. The role and mechanism of TCM in the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1286364. [PMID: 38033575 PMCID: PMC10682724 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1286364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The constant presence of infectious diseases poses an everlasting threat to the entire world. In recent years, there has been an increased attention toward the application of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in the treatment of emerging infectious diseases, as it has played a significant role. The aim of this article is to provide a concise overview of the roles and mechanisms of TCM in treating infectious diseases. TCM possesses the ability to modulate relevant factors, impede signaling pathways, and inhibit microbial growth, thereby exhibiting potent antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory effects that demonstrate remarkable efficacy against viral and bacterial infections. This article concludes that the comprehensive regulatory features of Chinese herbal medicines, with their various components, targets, and pathways, result in synergistic effects. The significance of Chinese herbal medicines in the context of infectious diseases should not be underestimated; however, it is crucial to also acknowledge their underutilization. This paper presents constructive suggestions regarding the challenges and opportunities faced by Chinese medicines. Particularly, it emphasizes the effectiveness and characteristics of Chinese medicines in the treatment of infectious diseases, specifying how these medicines' active substances can be utilized to target infectious diseases. This perspective is advantageous in facilitating researchers' pharmacological studies on Chinese medicines, focusing on the specific points of action. The mechanism of action of Chinese herbal medicines in the treatment of infectious diseases is comprehensively elucidated in this paper, providing compelling evidence for the superior treatment of infectious diseases through Chinese medicine. This information is favorable for advancing the development of TCM and its potential applications in the field of infectious diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qifei Zou
- Department of Medical Instrumental Analysis, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Yitong Chen
- Department of Medical Instrumental Analysis, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Huanxin Qin
- Department of Medical Instrumental Analysis, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Rui Tang
- Department of Medical Instrumental Analysis, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Taojian Han
- Department of Medical Instrumental Analysis, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Ziyi Guo
- Department of Medical Instrumental Analysis, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Juanjuan Zhao
- Department of Immunology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Delin Xu
- Department of Medical Instrumental Analysis, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Wang W, Zhan Y, Peng L, Gao D, Chen Y, Zhuang X. Artemisinin counteracts Edwardsiella tarda-induced liver inflammation and metabolic changes in juvenile fat greenling Hexagrammos otakii. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2023; 141:109012. [PMID: 37604265 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2023.109012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023]
Abstract
Emerging evidence suggests that artemisinin (ART) can modulate pathogen-induced immune responses and metabolic dysregulation. However, whether this modulation is associated with metabolic pathways related to oxidative stress and inflammation remains unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects on the ART-fed juvenile fat greenling Hexagrammos otakii and the associated metabolic pathways in response to ART administration using an integrated biochemical and metabolomic approach. Biochemical analysis and histological examination showed that ART significantly increased body weight gain and improved tissue structure. ART effectively attenuated reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA) and inflammatory responses (NFκB, TNF-α, IL-6, and MCP-1) in the Edwardsiella tarda-induced H. otakii model. Liver metabolomics analysis revealed that twenty-nine metabolites were up-regulated and twenty-one metabolites were down-regulated after ART administration compared to those in pathogen-induced fish. Pathway analysis indicated that ART alleviated the E. tarda-induced inflammation and oxidative stress through two major pathways, namely lipid metabolism and amino acid metabolism. Taken together, ART showed great potential as a natural feed additive against pathogen-induced oxidative stress and inflammation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Wang
- Key Laboratory of Applied Biology and Aquaculture of Fish in Northern Liaoning Province, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian, 116023, China; College of Fisheries and Life Science, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian, 116023, China.
| | - Yu Zhan
- Key Laboratory of Applied Biology and Aquaculture of Fish in Northern Liaoning Province, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian, 116023, China; College of Fisheries and Life Science, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian, 116023, China
| | - Lei Peng
- Key Laboratory of Applied Biology and Aquaculture of Fish in Northern Liaoning Province, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian, 116023, China; College of Fisheries and Life Science, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian, 116023, China
| | - Dongxu Gao
- Key Laboratory of Applied Biology and Aquaculture of Fish in Northern Liaoning Province, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian, 116023, China; College of Fisheries and Life Science, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian, 116023, China
| | - Yan Chen
- Key Laboratory of Applied Biology and Aquaculture of Fish in Northern Liaoning Province, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian, 116023, China; College of Fisheries and Life Science, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian, 116023, China
| | - Xue Zhuang
- Key Laboratory of Applied Biology and Aquaculture of Fish in Northern Liaoning Province, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian, 116023, China; College of Fisheries and Life Science, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian, 116023, China.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Salehi N, Nourbakhsh M, Noori S, Rezaeizadeh H, Zarghi A. Tehranolid and Artemisinin Effects on Ameliorating Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis by Modulating Inflammation and Remyelination. Mol Neurobiol 2023; 60:5975-5986. [PMID: 37391648 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-023-03449-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune demyelinating disease of the central nervous system. Artemisinin (ART) is a natural sesquiterpene lactone with an endoperoxide bond that is well-known for its anti-inflammatory effects in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), the most commonly used animal model of MS. Tehranolide (TEH) is a novel compound with structural similarity to ART. In this study, we aimed to investigate the ameliorating effect of TEH on EAE development by targeting proteins and genes involved in this process and compare its effects with ART. Female C57BL/6 mice were immunized with MOG35-55. Twelve days post-immunization, mice were treated with 0.28 mg/kg/day TEH and 2.8 mg/kg/day ART for 18 consecutive days, and the clinical score was measured daily. The levels of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines were assessed in mice serum and splenocytes by ELISA. We also evaluated the mRNA expression level of cytokines, as well as genes involved in T cell differentiation and myelination in the spinal cord tissue by qRT-PCR. Administration of TEH and ART significantly alleviated EAE signs. A significant reduction in IL-6 and IL-17 secretion and IL-17 and IL-1 gene expression in spinal cord were observed in the TEH-treated group. ART had similar or less significant effects. Moreover, TGF-β, IL-4, and IL-10 genes were stimulated by ART and TEH in the spinal cord, while the treatments did not affect IFN-γ expression. Both treatments dramatically increased the expression of FOXP3, GATA3, MBP, and AXL. Additionally, the T-bet gene was reduced after TEH administration. The compounds made no changes in RORγt, nestin, Gas6, Tyro3, and Mertk mRNA expression levels in the spinal cord. The study revealed that both TEH and ART can effectively modulate the genes responsible for inflammation and myelination that play a crucial role in EAE. Interestingly, TEH demonstrated a greater potency compared to ART and hence may have the potential to be evaluated in interventions for the management of MS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Niloufar Salehi
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mitra Nourbakhsh
- Finetech in Medicine Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shokoofe Noori
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Hossein Rezaeizadeh
- Department of Traditional Medicine, School of Persian Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Afshin Zarghi
- School of Pharmacy, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Wang X, Wu L, Xiang L, Gao R, Yin Q, Wang M, Liu Z, Leng L, Su Y, Wan H, Ma T, Chen S, Shi Y. Promoter variations in DBR2-like affect artemisinin production in different chemotypes of Artemisia annua. HORTICULTURE RESEARCH 2023; 10:uhad164. [PMID: 37731862 PMCID: PMC10508037 DOI: 10.1093/hr/uhad164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
Artemisia annua is the only known plant source of the potent antimalarial artemisinin, which occurs as the low- and high-artemisinin producing (LAP and HAP) chemotypes. Nevertheless, the different mechanisms of artemisinin producing between these two chemotypes were still not fully understood. Here, we performed a comprehensive analysis of genome resequencing, metabolome, and transcriptome data to systematically compare the difference in the LAP chemotype JL and HAP chemotype HAN. Metabolites analysis revealed that 72.18% of sesquiterpenes was highly accumulated in HAN compared to JL. Integrated omics analysis found a DBR2-Like (DBR2L) gene may be involved in artemisinin biosynthesis. DBR2L was highly homologous with DBR2, belonged to ORR3 family, and had the DBR2 activity of catalyzing artemisinic aldehyde to dihydroartemisinic aldehyde. Genome resequencing and promoter cloning revealed that complicated variations existed in DBR2L promoters among different varieties of A. annua and were clustered into three variation types. The promoter activity of diverse variant types showed obvious differences. Furthermore, the core region (-625 to 0) of the DBR2L promoter was identified and candidate transcription factors involved in DBR2L regulation were screened. Thus, the result indicates that DBR2L is another key enzyme involved in artemisinin biosynthesis. The promoter variation in DBR2L affects its expression level, and thereby may result in the different yield of artemisinin in varieties of A. annua. It provides a novel insight into the mechanism of artemisinin-producing difference in LAP and HAP chemotypes of A. annua, and will assist in a high yield of artemisinin in A. annua.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xingwen Wang
- Key Laboratory of Beijing for Identification and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Medicine, Artemisinin Research Center, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Lan Wu
- Key Laboratory of Beijing for Identification and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Medicine, Artemisinin Research Center, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Li Xiang
- Key Laboratory of Beijing for Identification and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Medicine, Artemisinin Research Center, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Ranran Gao
- Key Laboratory of Beijing for Identification and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Medicine, Artemisinin Research Center, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Qinggang Yin
- Key Laboratory of Beijing for Identification and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Medicine, Artemisinin Research Center, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Mengyue Wang
- Key Laboratory of Beijing for Identification and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Medicine, Artemisinin Research Center, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Zhaoyu Liu
- Institute of Herbgenomics, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Liang Leng
- Institute of Herbgenomics, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Yanyan Su
- Amway (China) Botanical R&D Center, Wuxi 214115, China
| | - Huihua Wan
- Key Laboratory of Beijing for Identification and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Medicine, Artemisinin Research Center, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Tingyu Ma
- Key Lab of Chinese Medicine Resources Conservation, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine of the People's Republic of China, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Shilin Chen
- Key Laboratory of Beijing for Identification and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Medicine, Artemisinin Research Center, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
- Institute of Herbgenomics, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Yuhua Shi
- Key Laboratory of Beijing for Identification and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Medicine, Artemisinin Research Center, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Farrag EAE, Hammad MO, Safwat SM, Hamed S, Hellal D. Artemisinin attenuates type 2 diabetic cardiomyopathy in rats through modulation of AGE-RAGE/HMGB-1 signaling pathway. Sci Rep 2023; 13:11043. [PMID: 37422477 PMCID: PMC10329689 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-37678-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus is a common metabolic disorder. About two-thirds of diabetic patients develop diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM), which becomes a challenging issue as it severely threatens the patient's life. Hyperglycemia and the resulting advanced glycated end products (AGE) and their receptor (RAGE)/High Mobility Group Box-1 (HMGB-1) molecular pathway are thought to be key players. Recently, artemisinin (ART) has gained more attention owing to its potent biological activities beyond its antimalarial effect. Herein, we aim to evaluate the effect of ART on DCM and the possible underlying mechanisms. Twenty-four male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into: control, ART, type 2 diabetic and type 2 diabetic treated with ART groups. At the end of the research, the ECG was recorded, then the heart weight to body weight (HW/BW) ratio, fasting blood glucose, serum insulin and HOMA-IR were evaluated. Cardiac biomarkers (CK-MB and LDH), oxidative stress markers, IL-1β, AGE, RAGE and HMGB-1 expression were also measured. The heart specimens were stained for H&E as well as Masson's trichrome. DCM induced disturbances in all studied parameters; contrary to this, ART improved these insults. Our study concluded that ART could improve DCM through modulation of the AGE-RAGE/HMGB-1 signaling pathway, with subsequent impacts on oxidative stress, inflammation and fibrosis. ART could therefore be a promising therapy for the management of DCM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eman A E Farrag
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt.
| | - Maha O Hammad
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Sally M Safwat
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Shereen Hamed
- Department of Medical Histology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Doaa Hellal
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Kim YB, Cho HJ, Yi YS. Anti-inflammatory role of Artemisia argyi methanol extract by targeting the caspase-11 non-canonical inflammasome in macrophages. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 307:116231. [PMID: 36754190 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Artemisia argyi possesses pharmacological activities against various immunopathological conditions associated with inflammation. AIM OF THE STUDY This study explored the inhibitory role of Artemisia argyi methanol extract (Aa-ME) in inflammatory responses and the underlying mechanism in macrophages. MATERIALS AND METHODS Caspase-11 non-canonical inflammasome was activated in J774A.1 macrophage by Pam3CSK4 treatment and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) transfection. Aa-ME-mediated in vitro anti-inflammatory action was examined using MTT assay, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity assay, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), nitric oxide (NO) generation assay, and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Aa-ME-mediated in vivo anti-inflammatory action was examined in LPS-stimulated lethal septic mice. RESULTS Aa-ME inhibited caspase-11 non-canonical inflammasome-stimulated pyroptosis and the secretion of IL-1β and IL-18 in J774A.1 macrophages. Aa-ME also inhibited NO generation by downregulating inducible NO synthase (iNOS) expression in LPS-primed and caspase-11 non-canonical inflammasome-triggered J774A.1 cells. The mechanism study revealed Aa-ME suppressed the auto-proteolytic activation of caspase-11 and gasdermin D (GSDMD) in J774A.1 cells and also interfered with caspase-11-mediated direct recognition of LPS. Moreover, Aa-ME alleviated LPS-induced lethal sepsis in mice by increasing their survival rate without significant toxicity. CONCLUSION These results suggest a novel mechanism by which Aa-ME alleviates inflammatory responses by deactivating caspase-11 non-canonical inflammasome in macrophages.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Young Bin Kim
- Department of Life Sciences, Kyonggi University, Suwon, 16227, Republic of Korea.
| | - Hui-Jin Cho
- Department of Life Sciences, Kyonggi University, Suwon, 16227, Republic of Korea.
| | - Young-Su Yi
- Department of Life Sciences, Kyonggi University, Suwon, 16227, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Modulation of Macrophage Function by Bioactive Wound Dressings with an Emphasis on Extracellular Matrix-Based Scaffolds and Nanofibrous Composites. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15030794. [PMID: 36986655 PMCID: PMC10053223 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15030794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 02/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Bioactive wound dressings that are capable of regulating the local wound microenvironment have attracted a very large interest in the field of regenerative medicine. Macrophages have many critical roles in normal wound healing, and the dysfunction of macrophages significantly contributes to impaired or non-healing skin wounds. Regulation of macrophage polarization towards an M2 phenotype provides a feasible strategy to enhance chronic wound healing, mainly by promoting the transition of chronic inflammation to the proliferation phase of wound healing, upregulating the level of anti-inflammatory cytokines around the wound area, and stimulating wound angiogenesis and re-epithelialization. Based on this, modulation of macrophage functions by the rational design of bioactive scaffolds has emerged as a promising way to accelerate delayed wound healing. This review outlines current strategies to regulate the response of macrophages using bioactive materials, with an emphasis on extracellular matrix-based scaffolds and nanofibrous composites.
Collapse
|
17
|
Yu J, Sheng S, Zou X, Shen Z. Dihydroartemisinin-ursodeoxycholic acid conjugate is a potential treatment agent for inflammatory bowel disease. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 117:109918. [PMID: 36842236 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.109918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A novel artemisinin derivative, dihydroartemisinin-ursodeoxycholic acid conjugate (4), was found to exhibit strong immunosuppressive activity. Various methods were used to evaluate the immunosuppressive activity and mechanism of action of the compound to explore its potential applications. METHODS T cell proliferation, mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR), and Th1/Th17 differentiation assays were used to evaluate the immunosuppressive activity of the compound. Differentially expressed genes from RNA sequencing were analysed with Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis, while enriched signalling pathways were further validated by western blotting (WB). In vivo efficacy was validated with delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) mouse models and dextran sodium sulphate (DSS)-induced inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) mouse model. RESULTS Compound 4 inhibited concanavalin A -induced mouse splenic T cell proliferation (IC50 = 15 nM) and anti-CD3/CD28-induced human primary T cell proliferation (IC50 = 30 nM) while also reducing the secretion of hIFN-γ. Compound 4 exhibited similar inhibitory activity in MLR assay. Compound 4 dose-dependently inhibited human Th1/Th17 differentiation. The KEGG pathway enrichment analysis indicated that the genes related to T cell activation signalling pathways PI3K-AKT, MAPK, and NF-κB were significantly enriched. WB confirmed that compound 4 inhibited the AKT/MAPK and NF-κB signalling pathways. Compound 4 dose-dependently inhibited ear and foot pad swelling in DTH mouse models. In the DSS-induced IBD mouse model, compound 4 significantly decreased the disease activity index and colon density, and inhibited splenomegaly of the mice. CONCLUSION The in vitro and in vivo results indicated that compound 4 has the potential to be developed into an anti-IBD drug.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jingfeng Yu
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Sihan Sheng
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Xiaosu Zou
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Zhengwu Shen
- School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 280 South Chongqing Road, Shanghai 200025, China; School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1200 Cailun Road, Shanghai 201203, China.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Liu H, Chen G, Li L, Lin Z, Tan B, Dong X, Yang Q, Chi S, Zhang S, Zhou X. Supplementing artemisinin positively influences growth, antioxidant capacity, immune response, gut health and disease resistance against Vibrio parahaemolyticus in Litopenaeus vannamei fed cottonseed protein concentrate meal diets. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2022; 131:105-118. [PMID: 36198380 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2022.09.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Revised: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Artemisinin (ART) is a kind of Chinese herbal medicine worth exploring, which obtains various physiological activities. In order to study the prebiotic effect of ART on Litopenaeus vannamei fed cottonseed protein concentrate meal diets, six groups of isonitrogenous and isolipid diets were prepared (including the fish meal control group, FM; cottonseed protein concentrate replacing 30% fishmeal protein and supplementing ART groups: ART0, ART0.3, ART0.6, ART0.9, and ART1.2). The feeding trials was lasted for 56 days. The results showed that the final body weight, weight gain and specific growth rate of the ART0.6 group were the highest, yet the feed coefficient rate of the ART0.6 group was the lowest significantly (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in survival rate among treatments (P > 0.05). In serum, the content of malondialdehyde in ART0 group was the highest (P < 0.05); the activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, phenol oxidase and lysozyme increased firstly and then decreased among the ARTs groups (P < 0.05). The activities of intestinal digestive enzymes (including the trypsin, lipase and amylase) showed an upward trend among the ARTs groups (P < 0.05). The histological sections showed that the intestinal muscle thickness, fold height and fold width in the FM group were significantly better than those in the ART0 group; while the mentioned above morphological indexes in the ART0 group were significantly lowest among the ARTs groups (P < 0.05). Sequencing of intestinal microbiota suggested that the microbial richness indexes firstly increased and then decreased (P < 0.05); the bacterial community structure of each treatment group was almost close; the relative abundance of pathogenic bacteria decreased significantly (P < 0.05), such as the Proteobacteria and Cyanobacteria at phylum level, besides the Vibrio and Candidatus Bacilloplasma at genus level. In intestinal tissue, the relative expression levels of TOLL1, TRAF6 and Pehaeidih3 showed up-regulated trends, while the expression of Crustin and LZM firstly up-regulated and then down-regulated (P < 0.05). The challenge experiment suggested that the cumulative mortality of FM group was significantly lower than that of ART0 group; besides the cumulative mortality firstly increased and then decreased between the ARTs groups (P < 0.05). In conclusion, the dietary supplementation of ART can improve the growth, antioxidant capacity, immune response, gut health and disease resistance of the shrimp. To be considered as a dietary immune enhancer, the recommended supplementation level of ART in shrimp's cottonseed protein concentrate meal diets is 0.43%.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hongyu Liu
- Laboratory of Aquatic Animal Nutrition and Feed, College of Fisheries, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China; Aquatic Animals Precision Nutrition and High Efficiency Feed Engineering Research Center of Guangdong Province, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China; Key Laboratory of Aquatic, Livestock and Poultry Feed Science and Technology in South China, Ministry of Agriculture, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, 524000, China
| | - Guofeng Chen
- Laboratory of Aquatic Animal Nutrition and Feed, College of Fisheries, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China; Aquatic Animals Precision Nutrition and High Efficiency Feed Engineering Research Center of Guangdong Province, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China; Key Laboratory of Aquatic, Livestock and Poultry Feed Science and Technology in South China, Ministry of Agriculture, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, 524000, China
| | - Lixian Li
- Laboratory of Aquatic Animal Nutrition and Feed, College of Fisheries, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China; Aquatic Animals Precision Nutrition and High Efficiency Feed Engineering Research Center of Guangdong Province, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China; Key Laboratory of Aquatic, Livestock and Poultry Feed Science and Technology in South China, Ministry of Agriculture, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, 524000, China
| | - Zhixuan Lin
- Laboratory of Aquatic Animal Nutrition and Feed, College of Fisheries, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China; Aquatic Animals Precision Nutrition and High Efficiency Feed Engineering Research Center of Guangdong Province, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China; Key Laboratory of Aquatic, Livestock and Poultry Feed Science and Technology in South China, Ministry of Agriculture, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, 524000, China
| | - Beiping Tan
- Laboratory of Aquatic Animal Nutrition and Feed, College of Fisheries, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China; Aquatic Animals Precision Nutrition and High Efficiency Feed Engineering Research Center of Guangdong Province, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China; Key Laboratory of Aquatic, Livestock and Poultry Feed Science and Technology in South China, Ministry of Agriculture, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, 524000, China.
| | - Xiaohui Dong
- Laboratory of Aquatic Animal Nutrition and Feed, College of Fisheries, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China; Aquatic Animals Precision Nutrition and High Efficiency Feed Engineering Research Center of Guangdong Province, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China; Key Laboratory of Aquatic, Livestock and Poultry Feed Science and Technology in South China, Ministry of Agriculture, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, 524000, China
| | - Qihui Yang
- Laboratory of Aquatic Animal Nutrition and Feed, College of Fisheries, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China; Aquatic Animals Precision Nutrition and High Efficiency Feed Engineering Research Center of Guangdong Province, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China; Key Laboratory of Aquatic, Livestock and Poultry Feed Science and Technology in South China, Ministry of Agriculture, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, 524000, China
| | - Shuyan Chi
- Laboratory of Aquatic Animal Nutrition and Feed, College of Fisheries, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China; Aquatic Animals Precision Nutrition and High Efficiency Feed Engineering Research Center of Guangdong Province, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China; Key Laboratory of Aquatic, Livestock and Poultry Feed Science and Technology in South China, Ministry of Agriculture, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, 524000, China
| | - Shuang Zhang
- Laboratory of Aquatic Animal Nutrition and Feed, College of Fisheries, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China; Aquatic Animals Precision Nutrition and High Efficiency Feed Engineering Research Center of Guangdong Province, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China; Key Laboratory of Aquatic, Livestock and Poultry Feed Science and Technology in South China, Ministry of Agriculture, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, 524000, China
| | - Xiaoqiu Zhou
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Chen J, Lin X, He J, Liu D, He L, Zhang M, Luan H, Hu Y, Tao C, Wang Q. Artemisitene suppresses rheumatoid arthritis progression via modulating METTL3-mediated N6-methyladenosine modification of ICAM2 mRNA in fibroblast-like synoviocytes. Clin Transl Med 2022; 12:e1148. [PMID: 36536495 PMCID: PMC9763537 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.1148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease. We previously revealed that the natural compound artemisitene (ATT) exhibits excellent broad anticancer activities without toxicity on normal tissues. Nevertheless, the effect of ATT on RA is undiscovered. Herein, we aim to study the effect and potential mechanism of ATT on RA management. METHODS A collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) mouse model was employed to confirm the anti-RA potential of ATT. Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) and 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU) assays, cell cycle and apoptosis analysis, immunofluorescence, migration and invasion assays, quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR), Western blot, RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) analysis, plasmid construction and lentivirus infection, and methylated RNA immunoprecipitation and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays, were carried out to confirm the effect and potential mechanism of ATT on RA management. RESULTS ATT relieved CIA in mice. ATT inhibited proliferation and induced apoptosis of RA-fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLSs). ATT restrained RA-FLSs migration and invasion via suppressing epithelial-mesenchymal transition. RNA-sequencing analysis and bioinformatics analysis identified intercellular adhesion molecule 2 (ICAM2) as a promoter of RA progression in RA-FLSs. ATT inhibits RA progression by suppressing ICAM2/phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT)/p300 pathway in RA-FLSs. Moreover, ATT inhibited methyltransferase-like 3 (METTL3)-mediated N6-methyladenosine methylation of ICAM2 mRNA in RA-FLSs. Interestingly, p300 directly facilitated METTL3 transcription, which could be restrained by ATT in RA-FLSs. Importantly, METTL3, ICAM2 and p300 expressions in synovium tissues of RA patients were related to clinical characteristics and therapy response. CONCLUSIONS We provided strong evidence that ATT has therapeutic potential for RA management by suppressing proliferation, migration and invasion, in addition to inducing apoptosis of RA-FLSs through modulating METTL3/ICAM2/PI3K/AKT/p300 feedback loop, supplying the fundamental basis for the clinical application of ATT in RA therapy. Moreover, METTL3, ICAM2 and p300 might serve as biomarkers for the therapy response of RA patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jian Chen
- Department of Rheumatism and ImmunologyPeking University Shenzhen HospitalShenzhenGuangdongChina
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Inflammatory and Immunology DiseasesShenzhenGuangdongChina
| | - Xian Lin
- Department of Rheumatism and ImmunologyPeking University Shenzhen HospitalShenzhenGuangdongChina
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Inflammatory and Immunology DiseasesShenzhenGuangdongChina
| | - Juan He
- Department of Rheumatism and ImmunologyPeking University Shenzhen HospitalShenzhenGuangdongChina
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Inflammatory and Immunology DiseasesShenzhenGuangdongChina
| | - Dandan Liu
- School of Basic Medical ScienceGuangzhou University of Chinese MedicineGuangzhouGuangdongChina
| | - Lianhua He
- Department of Rheumatism and ImmunologyPeking University Shenzhen HospitalShenzhenGuangdongChina
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Inflammatory and Immunology DiseasesShenzhenGuangdongChina
| | - Miaomiao Zhang
- Department of Rheumatism and ImmunologyPeking University Shenzhen HospitalShenzhenGuangdongChina
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Inflammatory and Immunology DiseasesShenzhenGuangdongChina
| | - Huijie Luan
- Department of Rheumatism and ImmunologyPeking University Shenzhen HospitalShenzhenGuangdongChina
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Inflammatory and Immunology DiseasesShenzhenGuangdongChina
| | - Yiping Hu
- Department of Rheumatism and ImmunologyPeking University Shenzhen HospitalShenzhenGuangdongChina
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Inflammatory and Immunology DiseasesShenzhenGuangdongChina
| | - Cheng Tao
- School of PharmacyGuangdong Medical UniversityDongguanGuangdongChina
| | - Qingwen Wang
- Department of Rheumatism and ImmunologyPeking University Shenzhen HospitalShenzhenGuangdongChina
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Inflammatory and Immunology DiseasesShenzhenGuangdongChina
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Tao Y, Zhao X, Liu X, Wang P, Huang Y, Bo R, Liu M, Li J. Oral delivery of chitosan-coated PLGA nanoemulsion loaded with artesunate alleviates ulcerative colitis in mice. Colloids Surf B Biointerfaces 2022; 219:112824. [PMID: 36108369 DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfb.2022.112824] [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: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 08/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Artesunate (ARS) has been shown to have a protective effect on ulcerative colitis (UC) in mice. However, its lack of targeting and short half-life severely hamper its efficacy. In this study, polylactic acid-glycolic acid copolymer (PLGA) and chitosan (CS) double emulsification solvent volatilisation method was used to prepare a stable nanoemulsion loaded with ARS (CPA). The in vitro drug release profile was detected using dialysis and the potential protective effect was evaluated in an experimental ulcerative colitis (UC) model induced by oral administration of dextran sulphate sodium (DSS). The results suggested that the mean droplet diameter of CPA nanoemulsion is 409.9 ± 9.21 nm, the polydispersity index is 0.17 ± 0.01 and the zeta potential is 40.07 ± 1.65 mV. The cumulative release curve showed the ARS was mainly released at pH 7.4, which is similar to the colonic environment. Oral administration of CPA effectively relieved DSS-induced clinical symptoms by lowering the body weight loss, disease activity index (DAI) score and impressively maintained tight junction protein expression in colon tissue when compared to the blank nanoemulsion control. Meanwhile, CPA remarkably suppressed TLR4/NF-κB pathway activation and mRNA levels of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α) while enhanced levels of IL-10 and CD206. In addition, the effect of CPA was slightly better than that of injecting ARS. Therefore, this study demonstrates a convenient drug delivery system for oral administration of ARS that potentially helps to target colonic tissue and alleviate UC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ya Tao
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, PR China; Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, PR China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety, the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, PR China
| | - Xin Zhao
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, PR China; Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, PR China
| | - XiaoPan Liu
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, PR China; Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, PR China
| | - PeiJia Wang
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, PR China; Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, PR China
| | - YinMo Huang
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, PR China; Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, PR China
| | - RuoNan Bo
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, PR China; Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, PR China
| | - MingJiang Liu
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, PR China; Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, PR China
| | - JinGui Li
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, PR China; Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, PR China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety, the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Wu Y, Zhang C, Guo M, Hu W, Qiu Y, Li M, Xu D, Wu P, Sun J, Shi R, Zhang Z, Jiang K. Targeting pancreatic stellate cells in chronic pancreatitis: Focus on therapeutic drugs and natural compounds. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1042651. [PMID: 36339568 PMCID: PMC9627273 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1042651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic pancreatitis (CP) is a precancerous illness linked to pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), although the evolutionary mechanism is uncertain. CP is distinguished by severe fibrosis caused by the activation of pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs). The current clinical therapeutic protocol for CP lacks specific therapeutic medicines for the prevention and suppression of inflammation and fibrosis aggravating in CP. More research on specifically targeting PSCs would help facilitate the development of novel therapies for pancreatic fibrosis. Notably, using natural compounds from medicinal plants as new antifibrotic agents has become a focus of recent research and is widely employed as an alternative and complementary approach. Our goal was to shed light on the role of PSCs in the development of CP and provide a focused update on the new potential therapeutic strategies against PSCs in CP models. Future studies can refer to these possible strategies for drug design, bioavailability, pharmacokinetics, and other issues to obtain better clinical outcomes for treating CP.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yang Wu
- Pancreas Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chun Zhang
- Gastroenterology Department, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Mei Guo
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Weikang Hu
- Pancreas Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yangling Qiu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Mengran Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Dong Xu
- Pancreas Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Pengfei Wu
- Pancreas Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jing Sun
- Department of Endocrinology, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Run Shi
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zili Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
- *Correspondence: Zili Zhang, ; Kuirong Jiang,
| | - Kuirong Jiang
- Pancreas Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- *Correspondence: Zili Zhang, ; Kuirong Jiang,
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Ge J, Liu Z, Zhong Z, Wang L, Zhuo X, Li J, Jiang X, Ye XY, Xie T, Bai R. Natural terpenoids with anti-inflammatory activities: Potential leads for anti-inflammatory drug discovery. Bioorg Chem 2022; 124:105817. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2022.105817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Revised: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
|
23
|
Agrawal PK, Agrawal C, Blunden G. Artemisia Extracts and Artemisinin-Based Antimalarials for COVID-19 Management: Could These Be Effective Antivirals for COVID-19 Treatment? Molecules 2022; 27:3828. [PMID: 35744958 PMCID: PMC9231170 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27123828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Revised: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
As the world desperately searches for ways to treat the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, a growing number of people are turning to herbal remedies. The Artemisia species, such as A. annua and A. afra, in particular, exhibit positive effects against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and COVID-19 related symptoms. A. annua is a source of artemisinin, which is active against malaria, and also exhibits potential for other diseases. This has increased interest in artemisinin's potential for drug repurposing. Artemisinin-based combination therapies, so-called ACTs, have already been recognized as first-line treatments against malaria. Artemisia extract, as well as ACTs, have demonstrated inhibition of SARS-CoV-2. Artemisinin and its derivatives have also shown anti-inflammatory effects, including inhibition of interleukin-6 (IL-6) that plays a key role in the development of severe COVID-19. There is now sufficient evidence in the literature to suggest the effectiveness of Artemisia, its constituents and/or artemisinin derivatives, to fight against the SARS-CoV-2 infection by inhibiting its invasion, and replication, as well as reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, and mitigating lung damage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pawan K. Agrawal
- Natural Product Inc., 7963 Anderson Park Lane, Westerville, OH 43081, USA;
| | - Chandan Agrawal
- Natural Product Inc., 7963 Anderson Park Lane, Westerville, OH 43081, USA;
| | - Gerald Blunden
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Science, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth PO1 2DT, UK;
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Zhao X, Huang X, Yang C, Jiang Y, Zhou W, Zheng W. Artemisinin Attenuates Amyloid-Induced Brain Inflammation and Memory Impairments by Modulating TLR4/NF-κB Signaling. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23116354. [PMID: 35683033 PMCID: PMC9181281 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23116354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The abnormal immune response is an early change in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Microglial activation is a crucial regulator of the immune response, which contributes to progressive neuronal injury by releasing neurotoxic products. Therefore, finding effective drugs to regulate microglial homeostasis and neuroinflammation has become a new AD treatment strategy. Artemisinin has potent anti-inflammatory and immune activities. However, it is unclear whether Artemisinin contributes to the regulation of microglial activation, thereby improving AD pathology. This study found that Artemisinin significantly reduced amyloid beta-peptide 1–42 (Aβ1–42)-induced increases in nitric oxide and reactive oxygen species and inflammatory factors in BV2 cells. In addition, Artemisinin inhibited the migration of microglia and prevented the expansion of the inflammatory cascade. The mechanical studies showed Artemisinin inhibited neuroinflammation and exerted neuroprotective effects by regulating the Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)/Nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathway. Similar results were obtained in AD model mice, in which Artemisinin administration attenuated Aβ1–42-induced neuroinflammation and neuronal injury, reversing spatial learning and memory deficits. The anti-inflammatory effect of Artemisinin is also accompanied by the activation of the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway in the animal model. Our results indicate that Artemisinin attenuated Aβ1–42-induced neuroinflammation and neuronal injury by stimulating the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway. These findings suggest that Artemisinin is a potential therapeutic agent for AD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xia Zhao
- Center of Reproduction, Development & Aging and Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau SAR 999078, China; (X.Z.); (C.Y.); (Y.J.); (W.Z.)
- Institute of Translation Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau SAR 999078, China
- Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou 310000, China
| | - Xiaosu Huang
- School of Nursing, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China;
| | - Chao Yang
- Center of Reproduction, Development & Aging and Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau SAR 999078, China; (X.Z.); (C.Y.); (Y.J.); (W.Z.)
- Institute of Translation Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau SAR 999078, China
| | - Yizhou Jiang
- Center of Reproduction, Development & Aging and Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau SAR 999078, China; (X.Z.); (C.Y.); (Y.J.); (W.Z.)
- Institute of Translation Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau SAR 999078, China
| | - Wenshu Zhou
- Center of Reproduction, Development & Aging and Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau SAR 999078, China; (X.Z.); (C.Y.); (Y.J.); (W.Z.)
- Institute of Translation Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau SAR 999078, China
| | - Wenhua Zheng
- Center of Reproduction, Development & Aging and Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau SAR 999078, China; (X.Z.); (C.Y.); (Y.J.); (W.Z.)
- Institute of Translation Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau SAR 999078, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +853-88224919
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Shi Q, Xia F, Wang Q, Liao F, Guo Q, Xu C, Wang J. Discovery and repurposing of artemisinin. Front Med 2022; 16:1-9. [PMID: 35290595 PMCID: PMC8922983 DOI: 10.1007/s11684-021-0898-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Malaria is an ancient infectious disease that threatens millions of lives globally even today. The discovery of artemisinin, inspired by traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), has brought in a paradigm shift and been recognized as the “best hope for the treatment of malaria” by World Health Organization. With its high potency and low toxicity, the wide use of artemisinin effectively treats the otherwise drug-resistant parasites and helps many countries, including China, to eventually eradicate malaria. Here, we will first review the initial discovery of artemisinin, an extraordinary journey that was in stark contrast with many drugs in western medicine. We will then discuss how artemisinin and its derivatives could be repurposed to treat cancer, inflammation, immunoregulation-related diseases, and COVID-19. Finally, we will discuss the implications of the “artemisinin story” and how that can better guide the development of TCM today. We believe that artemisinin is just a starting point and TCM will play an even bigger role in healthcare in the 21st century.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qiaoli Shi
- Artemisinin Research Center, and Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Fei Xia
- Artemisinin Research Center, and Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Qixin Wang
- Artemisinin Research Center, and Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Fulong Liao
- Artemisinin Research Center, and Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Qiuyan Guo
- Artemisinin Research Center, and Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China.
| | - Chengchao Xu
- Artemisinin Research Center, and Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China. .,Department of Geriatrics, The Second Clinical Medical College of Jinan University, The First Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen People's Hospital, Shenzhen, 518020, China.
| | - Jigang Wang
- Artemisinin Research Center, and Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China. .,Central People's Hospital of Zhanjiang, Zhanjiang, 524045, China. .,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China. .,Department of Geriatrics, The Second Clinical Medical College of Jinan University, The First Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen People's Hospital, Shenzhen, 518020, China.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Wang X, Liu P, Wu Q, Zheng Z, Xie M, Chen G, Yu J, Wang X, Li G, Kaplan D. Sustainable Antibacterial and Anti-Inflammatory Silk Suture with Surface Modification of Combined-Therapy Drugs for Surgical Site Infection. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2022; 14:11177-11191. [PMID: 35192338 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c00106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Silk sutures with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory functions were developed for sustained dual-drug delivery to prevent surgical site infections (SSIs). The silk sutures were prepared with core-shell structures braided from degummed silk filaments and then coated with a silk fibroin (SF) layer loaded with berberine (BB) and artemisinin (ART). Both the rapid release of drugs to prevent initial biofilm formation and the following sustained release to maintain effective concentrations for more than 42 days were demonstrated. In vitro assays using human fibroblasts (Hs 865.Sk) demonstrated cell proliferation on the materials, and hemolysis was 2.4 ± 0.8%, lower than that required by ISO 10993-4 standard. The sutures inhibited platelet adhesion and promoted collagen deposition and blood vessel formation. In vivo assessments using Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats indicated that the coating reduced the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin-10 (IL-10) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), shortening the inflammatory period and promoting angiogenesis. The results demonstrated that these new sutures exhibited stable structures, favorable biocompatibility, and sustainable antibacterial and anti-inflammatory functions with potential for surgical applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xuchen Wang
- National Engineering Laboratory for Modern Silk, College of Textile and Clothing Engineering, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Peixin Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, China
- Orthopedic Institute, Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, China
| | - Qinting Wu
- National Engineering Laboratory for Modern Silk, College of Textile and Clothing Engineering, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Zhaozhu Zheng
- National Engineering Laboratory for Modern Silk, College of Textile and Clothing Engineering, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Maobin Xie
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 511436, China
| | - Guoqiang Chen
- National Engineering Laboratory for Modern Silk, College of Textile and Clothing Engineering, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Jia Yu
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, China
- Orthopedic Institute, Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, China
| | - Xiaoqin Wang
- National Engineering Laboratory for Modern Silk, College of Textile and Clothing Engineering, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Gang Li
- National Engineering Laboratory for Modern Silk, College of Textile and Clothing Engineering, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - David Kaplan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, 4 Colby Street, Medford, Massachusetts 02155, United States
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Huang B, Zhang Y. Teaching an old dog new tricks: drug discovery by repositioning natural products and their derivatives. Drug Discov Today 2022; 27:1936-1944. [PMID: 35182736 PMCID: PMC9232944 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2022.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Revised: 01/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Given the substantial cost and low success rate of drug discovery and development, repositioning existing drugs to treat new diseases has gained significant attention in recent years, with potentially lower development costs and shorter time frames. Natural products show great promise in drug repositioning because they have been used for various medical purposes for thousands of years. In this review, we discuss the drug repositioning of six prototypical natural products and their derivatives to reveal new drug-disease associations. We also highlight opportunities and challenges in natural product-based drug repositioning for future reference.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Boshi Huang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University, 800 E. Leigh Street, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University, 800 E. Leigh Street, Richmond, VA 23298, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Anti-Inflammatory and Immunoregulatory Action of Sesquiterpene Lactones. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27031142. [PMID: 35164406 PMCID: PMC8839508 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27031142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Revised: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Sesquiterpene lactones (SL), characterized by their high prevalence in the Asteraceae family, are one of the major groups of secondary metabolites found in plants. Researchers from distinct research fields, including pharmacology, medicine, and agriculture, are interested in their biological potential. With new SL discovered in the last years, new biological activities have been tested, different action mechanisms (synergistic and/or antagonistic effects), as well as molecular structure–activity relationships described. The review identifies the main sesquiterpene lactones with interconnections between immune responses and anti-inflammatory actions, within different cellular models as well in in vivo studies. Bioaccessibility and bioavailability, as well as molecular structure–activity relationships are addressed. Additionally, plant metabolic engineering, and the impact of sesquiterpene lactone extraction methodologies are presented, with the perspective of biological activity enhancement. Sesquiterpene lactones derivatives are also addressed. This review summarizes the current knowledge regarding the therapeutic potential of sesquiterpene lactones within immune and inflammatory activities, highlighting trends and opportunities for their pharmaceutical/clinical use.
Collapse
|
29
|
Kadhim SH, Mosa AU, Ubaid MM. Hepatorenal protective activity of Artemisia against diclofenac toxicity in male rats. Pan Afr Med J 2022; 43:192. [PMID: 36942132 PMCID: PMC10024554 DOI: 10.11604/pamj.2022.43.192.36160] [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: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Artemisia is one of the important alternative treatments for many diseases, as well as the prevention of the effect of oxidizing substances that cause damage to the various organs of the body, including the liver and kidneys. The kidney and the liver are considered the body's most critical organs, and their functions in storage, metabolism, detoxification and elimination of medications, and their metabolic products make them target structures for "drug-induced" harm. The goal of this investigation was to see if Artemisia extract might protect hepatic and renal tissues from diclofenac-induced damage. Methods a total of 40 adult Wistar rats were separated equally into four groups randomly. The rats of the control group got only distilled water orally without medicine or therapy, while those in the second group administrated 100mg/kg/day of Artemisia orally for one month. The third group received 10mg/kg/day of Diclofenac (DF) orally. The fourth group received 10mg/kg/day of DF and 100mg/kg day of Artemisia orally. After one month, kidney parameters (albumin, creatinine, and urea) and liver parameters (aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP)) were measured. Results the results revealed increasing in the kidney (albumin, creatinine, and urea) parameters and liver parameters (AST, ALT, and ALP) in the group treated with diclofenac compared to the control group while they decreased significantly (p≤0.05) in diclofenac + Artemisia group comparing to diclofenac group. Conclusion we conclude from these results that Artemisia may have a role in reducing the toxic effect of diclofenac on kidney and liver by decreasing the liver enzymes and kidney criteria in the blood. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the role of Artemisia to reduce the toxic effect of diclofenac on liver and kidney.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shatha Hussein Kadhim
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Kerbala, Karbala, Iraq
| | - Amal Umran Mosa
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Kerbala, Karbala, Iraq
| | - Moayad Mijbil Ubaid
- Department of Sciences, College of Basic Education, University of Sumer, Rifai, Iraq
- Corresponding author: Moayad Mijbil Ubaid, Department of Sciences, College of Basic Education, University of Sumer, Rifai, Iraq.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
The Regulatory Effects and the Signaling Pathways of Natural Bioactive Compounds on Ferroptosis. Foods 2021; 10:foods10122952. [PMID: 34945503 PMCID: PMC8700948 DOI: 10.3390/foods10122952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural bioactive compounds abundantly presented in foods and medicinal plants have recently received a remarkable attention because of their various biological activities and minimal toxicity. In recent years, many natural compounds appear to offer significant effects in the regulation of ferroptosis. Ferroptosis is the forefront of international scientific research which has been exponential growth since the term was coined. This type of regulated cell death is driven by iron-dependent phospholipid peroxidation. Recent studies have shown that numerous organ injuries and pathophysiological processes of many diseases are driven by ferroptosis, such as cancer, arteriosclerosis, neurodegenerative disease, diabetes, ischemia-reperfusion injury and acute renal failure. It is reported that the initiation and inhibition of ferroptosis plays a pivotal role in lipid peroxidation, organ damage, neurodegeneration and cancer growth and progression. Recently, many natural phytochemicals extracted from edible plants have been demonstrated to be novel ferroptosis regulators and have the potential to treat ferroptosis-related diseases. This review provides an updated overview on the role of natural bioactive compounds and the potential signaling pathways in the regulation of ferroptosis.
Collapse
|
31
|
Abstract
The Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) signaling pathway was discovered more than a quarter-century ago. As a fulcrum of many vital cellular processes, the JAK/STAT pathway constitutes a rapid membrane-to-nucleus signaling module and induces the expression of various critical mediators of cancer and inflammation. Growing evidence suggests that dysregulation of the JAK/STAT pathway is associated with various cancers and autoimmune diseases. In this review, we discuss the current knowledge about the composition, activation, and regulation of the JAK/STAT pathway. Moreover, we highlight the role of the JAK/STAT pathway and its inhibitors in various diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyi Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, P. R. China
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Development and Related Disease of Women and Children Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, 610041, Chengdu, P. R. China
| | - Jing Li
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, P. R. China
| | - Maorong Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, P. R. China
| | - Xia Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, P. R. China.
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Development and Related Disease of Women and Children Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, 610041, Chengdu, P. R. China.
| | - Wei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, P. R. China.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Wani KI, Choudhary S, Zehra A, Naeem M, Weathers P, Aftab T. Enhancing artemisinin content in and delivery from Artemisia annua: a review of alternative, classical, and transgenic approaches. PLANTA 2021; 254:29. [PMID: 34263417 PMCID: PMC8279915 DOI: 10.1007/s00425-021-03676-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
This review analyses the most recent scientific research conducted for the purpose of enhancing artemisinin production. It may help to devise better artemisinin enhancement strategies, so that its production becomes cost effective and becomes available to masses. Malaria is a major threat to world population, particularly in South-East Asia and Africa, due to dearth of effective anti-malarial compounds, emergence of quinine resistant malarial strains, and lack of advanced healthcare facilities. Artemisinin, a sesquiterpene lactone obtained from Artemisia annua L., is the most potent drug against malaria and used in the formulation of artemisinin combination therapies (ACTs). Artemisinin is also effective against various types of cancers, many other microbes including viruses, parasites and bacteria. However, this specialty metabolite and its derivatives generally occur in low amounts in the source plant leading to its production scarcity. Considering the importance of this drug, researchers have been working worldwide to develop novel strategies to augment its production both in vivo and in vitro. Due to complex chemical structure, its chemical synthesis is quite expensive, so researchers need to devise synthetic protocols that are economically viable and also work on increasing the in-planta production of artemisinin by using various strategies like use of phytohormones, stress signals, bioinoculants, breeding and transgenic approaches. The focus of this review is to discuss these artemisinin enhancement strategies, understand mechanisms modulating its biosynthesis, and evaluate if roots play any role in artemisinin production. Furthermore, we also have a critical analysis of various assays used for artemisinin measurement. This may help to develop better artemisinin enhancement strategies which lead to decreased price of ACTs and increased profit to farmers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kaiser Iqbal Wani
- Department of Botany, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, 202 002, India
| | - Sadaf Choudhary
- Department of Botany, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, 202 002, India
| | - Andleeb Zehra
- Department of Botany, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, 202 002, India
| | - M Naeem
- Department of Botany, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, 202 002, India
| | - Pamela Weathers
- Department of Biology/Biotechnology, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Rd, Worcester, MA, 01609, USA
| | - Tariq Aftab
- Department of Botany, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, 202 002, India.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Nair MS, Huang Y, Fidock DA, Polyak SJ, Wagoner J, Towler MJ, Weathers PJ. Artemisia annua L. extracts inhibit the in vitro replication of SARS-CoV-2 and two of its variants. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 274:114016. [PMID: 33716085 PMCID: PMC7952131 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2021.114016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Artemisia annua L. has been used for millennia in Southeast Asia to treat "fever". Many infectious microbial and viral diseases have been shown to respond to A. annua and communities around the world use the plant as a medicinal tea, especially for treating malaria. AIM OF THE STUDY SARS-CoV-2 (the cause of Covid-19) globally has infected and killed millions of people. Because of the broad-spectrum antiviral activity of artemisinin that includes blockade of SARS-CoV-1, we queried whether A. annua suppressed SARS-CoV-2. MATERIALS AND METHODS Using Vero E6 and Calu-3 cells, we measured anti SARS-CoV-2 activity against fully infectious virus of dried leaf extracts of seven cultivars of A. annua sourced from four continents. IC50s were calculated and defined as the concentrations that inhibited viral replication by 50%; CC50s were also calculated and defined as the concentrations that kill 50% of cells. RESULTS Hot-water leaf extracts based on artemisinin, total flavonoids, or dry leaf mass showed antiviral activity with IC50 values of 0.1-8.7 μM, 0.01-0.14 μg, and 23.4-57.4 μg, respectively. Antiviral efficacy did not correlate with artemisinin or total flavonoid contents of the extracts. One dried leaf sample was >12 years old, yet its hot-water extract was still found to be active. The UK and South African variants, B1.1.7 and B1.351, were similarly inhibited. While all hot water extracts were effective, concentrations of artemisinin and total flavonoids varied by nearly 100-fold in the extracts. Artemisinin alone showed an estimated IC50 of about 70 μM, and the clinically used artemisinin derivatives artesunate, artemether, and dihydroartemisinin were ineffective or cytotoxic at elevated micromolar concentrations. In contrast, the antimalarial drug amodiaquine had an IC50 = 5.8 μM. Extracts had minimal effects on infection of Vero E6 or Calu-3 cells by a reporter virus pseudotyped by the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. There was no cytotoxicity within an order of magnitude above the antiviral IC90 values. CONCLUSIONS A. annua extracts inhibit SARS-CoV-2 infection, and the active component(s) in the extracts is likely something besides artemisinin or a combination of components that block virus infection at a step downstream of virus entry. Further studies will determine in vivo efficacy to assess whether A. annua might provide a cost-effective therapeutic to treat SARS-CoV-2 infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M S Nair
- Aaron Diamond AIDS Research Center, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Y Huang
- Aaron Diamond AIDS Research Center, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY, USA.
| | - D A Fidock
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA; Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
| | - S J Polyak
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98104, USA.
| | - J Wagoner
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98104, USA.
| | - M J Towler
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, MA, 01609, USA.
| | - P J Weathers
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, MA, 01609, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Meng Y, Ma N, Lyu H, Wong YK, Zhang X, Zhu Y, Gao P, Sun P, Song Y, Lin L, Wang J. Recent pharmacological advances in the repurposing of artemisinin drugs. Med Res Rev 2021; 41:3156-3181. [PMID: 34148245 DOI: 10.1002/med.21837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 02/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Artemisinins are a family of sesquiterpene lactones originally derived from the sweet wormwood (Artemisia annua). Beyond their well-characterized role as frontline antimalarial drugs, artemisinins have also received increased attention for other potential pharmaceutical effects, which include antiviral, antiparsitic, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer activities. With concerted efforts in further preclinical and clinical studies, artemisinin-based drugs have the potential to be viable treatments for a great variety of human diseases. Here, we provide a comprehensive update on recent reports of pharmacological actions and applications of artemisinins outside of their better-known antimalarial role and highlight their potential therapeutic viability for various diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuqing Meng
- Artemisinin Research Center and the Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Nan Ma
- Artemisinin Research Center and the Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Haining Lyu
- Artemisinin Research Center and the Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yin Kwan Wong
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Xing Zhang
- Artemisinin Research Center and the Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yongping Zhu
- Artemisinin Research Center and the Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Peng Gao
- Artemisinin Research Center and the Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Peng Sun
- Artemisinin Research Center and the Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yali Song
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Dongguan Maternal And Child Health Care Hospital, Southern Medical University, Dongguan, China
| | - Lizhu Lin
- Oncology Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jigang Wang
- Artemisinin Research Center and the Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.,Oncology Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Central People's Hospital of Zhanjiang, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, Ministry of Education, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Pereira GJDS, Leão AHFF, Erustes AG, Morais IBDM, Vrechi TADM, Zamarioli LDS, Pereira CAS, Marchioro LDO, Sperandio LP, Lins ÍVF, Piacentini M, Fimia GM, Reckziegel P, Smaili SS, Bincoletto C. Pharmacological Modulators of Autophagy as a Potential Strategy for the Treatment of COVID-19. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:4067. [PMID: 33920748 PMCID: PMC8071111 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22084067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The family of coronaviruses (CoVs) uses the autophagy machinery of host cells to promote their growth and replication; thus, this process stands out as a potential target to combat COVID-19. Considering the different roles of autophagy during viral infection, including SARS-CoV-2 infection, in this review, we discuss several clinically used drugs that have effects at different stages of autophagy. Among them, we mention (1) lysosomotropic agents, which can prevent CoVs infection by alkalinizing the acid pH in the endolysosomal system, such as chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine, azithromycin, artemisinins, two-pore channel modulators and imatinib; (2) protease inhibitors that can inhibit the proteolytic cleavage of the spike CoVs protein, which is necessary for viral entry into host cells, such as camostat mesylate, lopinavir, umifenovir and teicoplanin and (3) modulators of PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathways, such as rapamycin, heparin, glucocorticoids, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (IECAs) and cannabidiol. Thus, this review aims to highlight and discuss autophagy-related drugs for COVID-19, from in vitro to in vivo studies. We identified specific compounds that may modulate autophagy and exhibit antiviral properties. We hope that research initiatives and efforts will identify novel or "off-label" drugs that can be used to effectively treat patients infected with SARS-CoV-2, reducing the risk of mortality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gustavo José da Silva Pereira
- Department of Pharmacology, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), 04044-020 São Paulo, Brazil; (A.H.F.F.L.); (A.G.E.); (I.B.d.M.M.); (T.A.d.M.V.); (L.d.S.Z.); (C.A.S.P.); (L.d.O.M.); (L.P.S.); (Í.V.F.L.); (P.R.); (S.S.S.); (C.B.)
| | - Anderson Henrique França Figueredo Leão
- Department of Pharmacology, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), 04044-020 São Paulo, Brazil; (A.H.F.F.L.); (A.G.E.); (I.B.d.M.M.); (T.A.d.M.V.); (L.d.S.Z.); (C.A.S.P.); (L.d.O.M.); (L.P.S.); (Í.V.F.L.); (P.R.); (S.S.S.); (C.B.)
| | - Adolfo Garcia Erustes
- Department of Pharmacology, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), 04044-020 São Paulo, Brazil; (A.H.F.F.L.); (A.G.E.); (I.B.d.M.M.); (T.A.d.M.V.); (L.d.S.Z.); (C.A.S.P.); (L.d.O.M.); (L.P.S.); (Í.V.F.L.); (P.R.); (S.S.S.); (C.B.)
| | - Ingrid Beatriz de Melo Morais
- Department of Pharmacology, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), 04044-020 São Paulo, Brazil; (A.H.F.F.L.); (A.G.E.); (I.B.d.M.M.); (T.A.d.M.V.); (L.d.S.Z.); (C.A.S.P.); (L.d.O.M.); (L.P.S.); (Í.V.F.L.); (P.R.); (S.S.S.); (C.B.)
| | - Talita Aparecida de Moraes Vrechi
- Department of Pharmacology, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), 04044-020 São Paulo, Brazil; (A.H.F.F.L.); (A.G.E.); (I.B.d.M.M.); (T.A.d.M.V.); (L.d.S.Z.); (C.A.S.P.); (L.d.O.M.); (L.P.S.); (Í.V.F.L.); (P.R.); (S.S.S.); (C.B.)
| | - Lucas dos Santos Zamarioli
- Department of Pharmacology, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), 04044-020 São Paulo, Brazil; (A.H.F.F.L.); (A.G.E.); (I.B.d.M.M.); (T.A.d.M.V.); (L.d.S.Z.); (C.A.S.P.); (L.d.O.M.); (L.P.S.); (Í.V.F.L.); (P.R.); (S.S.S.); (C.B.)
| | - Cássia Arruda Souza Pereira
- Department of Pharmacology, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), 04044-020 São Paulo, Brazil; (A.H.F.F.L.); (A.G.E.); (I.B.d.M.M.); (T.A.d.M.V.); (L.d.S.Z.); (C.A.S.P.); (L.d.O.M.); (L.P.S.); (Í.V.F.L.); (P.R.); (S.S.S.); (C.B.)
| | - Laís de Oliveira Marchioro
- Department of Pharmacology, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), 04044-020 São Paulo, Brazil; (A.H.F.F.L.); (A.G.E.); (I.B.d.M.M.); (T.A.d.M.V.); (L.d.S.Z.); (C.A.S.P.); (L.d.O.M.); (L.P.S.); (Í.V.F.L.); (P.R.); (S.S.S.); (C.B.)
| | - Letícia Paulino Sperandio
- Department of Pharmacology, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), 04044-020 São Paulo, Brazil; (A.H.F.F.L.); (A.G.E.); (I.B.d.M.M.); (T.A.d.M.V.); (L.d.S.Z.); (C.A.S.P.); (L.d.O.M.); (L.P.S.); (Í.V.F.L.); (P.R.); (S.S.S.); (C.B.)
| | - Ísis Valeska Freire Lins
- Department of Pharmacology, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), 04044-020 São Paulo, Brazil; (A.H.F.F.L.); (A.G.E.); (I.B.d.M.M.); (T.A.d.M.V.); (L.d.S.Z.); (C.A.S.P.); (L.d.O.M.); (L.P.S.); (Í.V.F.L.); (P.R.); (S.S.S.); (C.B.)
| | - Mauro Piacentini
- Department of Biology, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, 00133 Rome, Italy;
- Department of Epidemiology and Preclinical Research, National Institute for Infectious Diseases IRCCS ‘La Zaro Spallanzani’, 00149 Rome, Italy;
| | - Gian Maria Fimia
- Department of Epidemiology and Preclinical Research, National Institute for Infectious Diseases IRCCS ‘La Zaro Spallanzani’, 00149 Rome, Italy;
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Rome La Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Patrícia Reckziegel
- Department of Pharmacology, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), 04044-020 São Paulo, Brazil; (A.H.F.F.L.); (A.G.E.); (I.B.d.M.M.); (T.A.d.M.V.); (L.d.S.Z.); (C.A.S.P.); (L.d.O.M.); (L.P.S.); (Í.V.F.L.); (P.R.); (S.S.S.); (C.B.)
| | - Soraya Soubhi Smaili
- Department of Pharmacology, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), 04044-020 São Paulo, Brazil; (A.H.F.F.L.); (A.G.E.); (I.B.d.M.M.); (T.A.d.M.V.); (L.d.S.Z.); (C.A.S.P.); (L.d.O.M.); (L.P.S.); (Í.V.F.L.); (P.R.); (S.S.S.); (C.B.)
| | - Claudia Bincoletto
- Department of Pharmacology, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), 04044-020 São Paulo, Brazil; (A.H.F.F.L.); (A.G.E.); (I.B.d.M.M.); (T.A.d.M.V.); (L.d.S.Z.); (C.A.S.P.); (L.d.O.M.); (L.P.S.); (Í.V.F.L.); (P.R.); (S.S.S.); (C.B.)
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Alagbonsi AI, Salman TM, Sulaiman SO, Adedini KA, Kebu S. Possible mechanisms of the hypoglycaemic effect of artesunate: Gender implication. Metabol Open 2021; 10:100087. [PMID: 33778463 PMCID: PMC7985403 DOI: 10.1016/j.metop.2021.100087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background We investigated the mechanism of artesunate’s glucose-modulating effect especially with gender implication. Methods Twenty-five (25) male and 25 female rats were separately and blindly allocated into five identical groups (n = 5/group). Group I (control) received 0.2 ml/kg distilled water. Groups II and III both received 2.90 mg/kg artesunate on day one, but 1.45 mg/kg from day two till day five and day fifteen respectively. Groups IV and V both received 8.70 mg/kg artesunate on day one, but 4.35 mg/kg artesunate from day two till day five and day fifteen respectively. Results In male rats, glucose was reduced by both doses of artesunate at 5 days but increased by high dose at 15 days. Artesunate increased glycogen concentration at short duration which normalised at long duration in both genders. Artesunate increased G6P concentration only in male rats at 15 days but reduced G6Pase activity in male and female rats (except in those that received low and high doses of artesunate for 15 days). Artesunate increased insulin only in male rats treated with low dose artesunate for 5 days. Artesunate increased cortisol concentration in male but reduced it in female rats. Artesunate decreased glucagon concentration except in female rats treated with high dose for 5 days. Artesunate increased oestrogen concentration in male rats that received low dose artesunate for 5 days but reduced it in female rats that received high dose for 15 days. Conclusions Artesunate reduces plasma glucose by reducing plasma glucagon concentrations and inhibiting liver glycogenolysis via inhibition of G6Pase activity in both sexes. Increase in insulin concentration contributed to the reduction in blood glucose caused by artesunate in male but not female rats; and artesunate-induced increase in G6P, a substrate for G6PD, could enhance NADPH generation and antioxidant enzyme activation in male rats. Reducing glucagon concentration and inhibiting G6Pase activity in both genders. . Increasing plasma insulin in male but not in female. Increasing G6P, a substrate for G6PD, in male rats.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abdullateef Isiaka Alagbonsi
- Department of Clinical Biology (Physiology unit), School of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Rwanda College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Huye, Rwanda
| | - Toyin Mohammad Salman
- Department of Physiology, College of Health Sciences, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Kwara, Nigeria
| | - Sheu Oluwadare Sulaiman
- Department of Physiology, Kampala International University Western Campus, Ishaka Bushenyi, Uganda.,Department of Cell Biology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Kafayat Anike Adedini
- Department of Physiology, College of Health Sciences, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Kwara, Nigeria
| | - Susan Kebu
- Department of Physiology, College of Health Sciences, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Kwara, Nigeria
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Liu L, Zhao J, Li A, Yang X, Sprangers B, Li S. Artemisinin attenuates IgM xenoantibody production via inhibition of T cell-independent marginal zone B cell proliferation. J Leukoc Biol 2021; 109:583-591. [PMID: 32542769 DOI: 10.1002/jlb.4ma0520-717rrr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Revised: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Artemisinin (ART) has been shown to suppress B cell activation and plasma cell formation. However, its effect on splenic marginal zone (MZ) B cells is unknown. Splenic MZ B cells play a critical role in rapidly induced Ab production against blood-borne foreign Ags. Dysfunction of MZ B cells, due to inhibition of its proliferation or displacement of its homing, results in an attenuated adaptive humoral response. Here, we investigate the effect of ART on splenic MZ B (CD19+ CD21high CD23low ) and B10 (CD19+ CD1dhigh CD5+ ) B cells to explore the mechanisms of ART-induced immunosuppression in T cell-deficient nude mice challenged with hamster xenoantigens. In this study, we demonstrate that ART decreases T cell-independent xenogeneic IgM Ab production and, this is associated with a strong suppression of MZ B cell proliferation and a relative increase of CD21low CD23+ follicular and B10 B cells. In addition, this suppression impairs IL-10 production. Taken together, our data indicate that ART suppresses B cell immune responses through a distinctive effect on splenic MZ B and other B cells. This represents a new mechanism of ART-induced immunosuppression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lihua Liu
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, University of Sun Yat-sen, Zhuhai, P. R. China
| | - Juanzhi Zhao
- Department of Pharmacy, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, University of Sun Yat-sen, Zhuhai, P. R. China
| | - An Li
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, University of Sun Yat-sen, Zhuhai, P. R. China
| | - Xuan Yang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, University of Sun Yat-sen, Zhuhai, P. R. China
| | - Ben Sprangers
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Laboratory of Molecular Immunology (Rega institute), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Shengqiao Li
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, University of Sun Yat-sen, Zhuhai, P. R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Imaging, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, University of Sun Yat-sen, Zhuhai, P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Kshirsagar SG, Rao RV. Antiviral and Immunomodulation Effects of Artemisia. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2021; 57:217. [PMID: 33673527 PMCID: PMC7997252 DOI: 10.3390/medicina57030217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Artemisia is one of the most widely distributed genera of the family Astraceae with more than 500 diverse species growing mainly in the temperate zones of Europe, Asia and North America. The plant is used in Chinese and Ayurvedic systems of medicine for its antiviral, antifungal, antimicrobial, insecticidal, hepatoprotective and neuroprotective properties. Research based studies point to Artemisia's role in addressing an entire gamut of physiological imbalances through a unique combination of pharmacological actions. Terpenoids, flavonoids, coumarins, caffeoylquinic acids, sterols and acetylenes are some of the major phytochemicals of the genus. Notable among the phytochemicals is artemisinin and its derivatives (ARTs) that represent a new class of recommended drugs due to the emergence of bacteria and parasites that are resistant to quinoline drugs. This manuscript aims to systematically review recent studies that have investigated artemisinin and its derivatives not only for their potent antiviral actions but also their utility against the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Materials andMethods: PubMed Central, Scopus and Google scholar databases of published articles were collected and abstracts were reviewed for relevance to the subject matter. Conclusions: The unprecedented impact that artemisinin had on public health and drug discovery research led the Nobel Committee to award the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2015 to the discoverers of artemisinin. Thus, it is clear that Artemisia's importance in indigenous medicinal systems and drug discovery systems holds great potential for further investigation into its biological activities, especially its role in viral infection and inflammation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Suhas G. Kshirsagar
- College of Ayurveda, Mount Madonna Institute, 445 Summit Road, Watsonville, CA 95076, USA
| | - Rammohan V. Rao
- California College of Ayurveda, 700 Zion Street, Nevada City, CA 95959, USA
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Dolivo D, Weathers P, Dominko T. Artemisinin and artemisinin derivatives as anti-fibrotic therapeutics. Acta Pharm Sin B 2021; 11:322-339. [PMID: 33643815 PMCID: PMC7893118 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2020.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Revised: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis is a pathological reparative process that can occur in most organs and is responsible for nearly half of deaths in the developed world. Despite considerable research, few therapies have proven effective and been approved clinically for treatment of fibrosis. Artemisinin compounds are best known as antimalarial therapeutics, but they also demonstrate antiparasitic, antibacterial, anticancer, and anti-fibrotic effects. Here we summarize literature describing anti-fibrotic effects of artemisinin compounds in in vivo and in vitro models of tissue fibrosis, and we describe the likely mechanisms by which artemisinin compounds appear to inhibit cellular and tissue processes that lead to fibrosis. To consider alternative routes of administration of artemisinin for treatment of internal organ fibrosis, we also discuss the potential for more direct oral delivery of Artemisia plant material to enhance bioavailability and efficacy of artemisinin compared to administration of purified artemisinin drugs at comparable doses. It is our hope that greater understanding of the broad anti-fibrotic effects of artemisinin drugs will enable and promote their use as therapeutics for treatment of fibrotic diseases.
Collapse
Key Words
- ALP, alkaline phosphatase
- ALT, alanine aminotransferase
- AMPK, AMP-activated protein kinase
- ASP, aspartate aminotransferase
- Artemisia
- Artemisinin
- Artesunate
- BAD, BCL-2-associated agonist of cell death
- BDL, bile duct ligation
- BSA, bovine serum albumin
- BUN, blood urea nitrogen
- CCl4, carbon tetrachloride
- CTGF, connective tissue growth factor
- Col I, type I collagen
- DHA, dihydroartemisinin
- DLA, dried leaf Artemisia
- ECM, extracellular matrix
- EMT, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition
- FLS, fibroblast-like synoviocyte
- Fibroblast
- Fibrosis
- HA, hyaluronic acid
- HSC, hepatic stellate cell
- HUVEC, human umbilical vein endothelial cell
- LAP, latency-associated peptide
- LDH, lactate dehydrogenase
- MAPK, mitogen-activated protein kinase
- MI, myocardial infarction
- MMP, matrix metalloproteinase
- Myofibroblast
- NAG, N-acetyl-β-d-glucosaminidase
- NICD, Notch intracellular domain
- PCNA, proliferating cell nuclear antigen
- PHN, passive heymann nephritis
- ROS, reactive oxygen species
- STZ, streptozotocin
- Scar
- TGF, β-transforming growth factor-β
- TGF-β
- TIMP, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase
- UUO, unilateral ureteral obstruction
- i.p., intraperitoneal
- mTOR, mechanistic target of rapamycin
- sCr, serum creatinine
- α-SMA, smooth muscle α-actin
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David Dolivo
- Department of Surgery, Northwestern University-Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Pamela Weathers
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, MA 01609, USA
| | - Tanja Dominko
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, MA 01609, USA
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Patel OPS, Beteck RM, Legoabe LJ. Exploration of artemisinin derivatives and synthetic peroxides in antimalarial drug discovery research. Eur J Med Chem 2021; 213:113193. [PMID: 33508479 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2021.113193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Malaria is a life-threatening infectious disease caused by protozoal parasites belonging to the genus Plasmodium. It caused an estimated 405,000 deaths and 228 million malaria cases globally in 2018 as per the World Malaria Report released by World Health Organization (WHO) in 2019. Artemisinin (ART), a "Nobel medicine" and its derivatives have proven potential application in antimalarial drug discovery programs. In this review, antimalarial activity of the most active artemisinin derivatives modified at C-10/C-11/C-16/C-6 positions and synthetic peroxides (endoperoxides, 1,2,4-trioxolanes, 1,2,4-trioxanes, and 1,2,4,5-tetraoxanes) are systematically summarized. The developmental trend of ART derivatives, and cyclic peroxides along with their antimalarial activity and how the activity is affected by structural variations on different sites of the compounds are discussed. This compilation would be very useful towards scaffold hopping aimed at avoiding the unnecessary complexity in cyclic peroxides, and ultimately act as a handy resource for the development of potential chemotherapeutics against Plasmodium species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Om P S Patel
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa.
| | - Richard M Beteck
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa
| | - Lesetja J Legoabe
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa.
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
IVANESCU B, CORCIOVA A, VLASE L, GHELDIU AM, MIRON A, ABABEI DC, BILD V. Analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity of Artemisia extracts on animal models of nociception. BALNEO AND PRM RESEARCH JOURNAL 2021. [DOI: 10.12680/balneo.2021.416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction. The study aims to assess the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activity of extracts obtained from indigenous species of wormwood: Artemisia absinthium, A. annua, A. vulgaris and A. pontica.
Materials and methods. For these experiments, we employed nociception models using thermal stimulus (hot plate and tail immersion tests, t = 52.5 0C; 30, 60 and 90 minutes testing), chemical stimulus (Zymosan-induced abdominal constriction response test, using distinct lots and testing at 60, 90 and 120 minutes after administration of samples) and pressure stimulus (Randall Selitto test) and an inflammation model for the evaluation of inflammatory edema by Plethysmometer test. Groups of 6 Swiss mice / lot were used, receiving by oral administration the plant extracts suspended in 0.1% CMC-Na. The doses were administered in geometric progression. Chemical analyses were performed by HPLC-MS in order to identify bioactive substances present in extracts: methoxylated flavonoids, sesquiterpene lactones, phytosterols and hydroxycinnamic acids.
Results and discussion. All plant extracts showed antinociceptive action on the models with thermal stimulus, as demonstrated by the ED50 values obtained at different test times. In the models of nociception with chemical and mechanical stimulus, models based on inflammatory mediation, the studied fractions have partially proved their antinociceptive action. Regarding the degree of inhibition of inflammatory edema, the highest potency was exhibited by Artemisia pontica extract (86.5% inhibition for the dose of 100 mg/kg). Hispidulin and eupatorin, known anti-inflammatory compounds, were identified in all extracts, along with caffeic and chlorogenic acids, stigmasterol, campesterol and β-sitosterol.
Conclusions. The obtained results support the use of these plant extracts in moderate intensity pain, triggered by both central and peripheral mechanisms.
Keywords: hot-plate test, tail immersion test, abdominal constrictive response, Randall-Selitto test, inflammatory edema,
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bianca IVANESCU
- “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Iași, Romania
| | - Andreia CORCIOVA
- “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Iași, Romania
| | - Laurian VLASE
- “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Ana-Maria GHELDIU
- “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Anca MIRON
- “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Iași, Romania
| | - Daniela Carmen ABABEI
- “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Iași, Romania
| | - Veronica BILD
- “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Iași, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Zhan T, Wang B, Fu J, Shao Y, Ye L, Shi H, Zheng L. Artesunate inhibits Sjögren's syndrome-like autoimmune responses and BAFF-induced B cell hyperactivation via TRAF6-mediated NF-κB signaling. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 80:153381. [PMID: 33086170 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2020.153381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Revised: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hyperactivation of B cells by activators has been demonstrated to play a central role in the pathogenesis of Sjögren's syndrome (SS). In this study, we found that artesunate (ART) can attenuate BAFF-induced B cell hyperactivation and SS-like symptoms in NOD/Ltj mice. PURPOSE To determine the efficacy of ART in attenuating SS-like symptoms in vivo and explore the underlying mechanism in vitro. STUDY DESIGN ART was intragastrically injected into SS-like NOD/Ltj mice. The cytokine hsBAFF was used to activate Raji and Daudi B cells to mimic B cell hyperactivation in vitro. METHODS The efficacy of ART in inhibiting SS progression was studied in NOD/Ltj mice. Salivary flow rate, the number of lymphocytic infiltration foci, the level of autoantibodies and the extent of B cell infiltration were measured in the indicated groups. CCK-8 assays, flow cytometry-based EdU staining and Annexin V/PI staining were also used to detect the effect of ART on the survival and proliferation mechanism in BAFF-induced Raji and Daudi cells. Further studies determined that TRAF6 degradation is a potential mechanism by which ART determines B cell fate. RESULTS Treatment with ART inhibited lymphocytic foci formation, B cell infiltration and autoantibody secretion in SS-like NOD/Ltj mice. In vitro assay results indicated that ART effectively inhibited BAFF-induced viability, survival and proliferation of neoplastic B cells. Mechanistically, ART targeted BAFF-activated NFκB by regulating the proteasome-mediated degradation of TRAF6 in Raji and Daudi cells. CONCLUSION ART ameliorated murine SS-like symptoms and regulated TRAF6-NFκB signaling, thus determining survival and proliferation of B cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tianle Zhan
- Department of Oral Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; National Clinical Research Center of Oral Disease, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology & Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, Shanghai, China
| | - Baoli Wang
- Department of Oral Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; National Clinical Research Center of Oral Disease, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology & Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiayao Fu
- Department of Oral Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; National Clinical Research Center of Oral Disease, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology & Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanxiong Shao
- Department of Oral Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; National Clinical Research Center of Oral Disease, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology & Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, Shanghai, China
| | - Lei Ye
- Department of Oral Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; National Clinical Research Center of Oral Disease, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology & Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, Shanghai, China
| | - Huan Shi
- Department of Oral Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; National Clinical Research Center of Oral Disease, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology & Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, Shanghai, China.
| | - Lingyan Zheng
- Department of Oral Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; National Clinical Research Center of Oral Disease, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology & Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, Shanghai, China.
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Artesunate, as a HSP70 ATPase activity inhibitor, induces apoptosis in breast cancer cells. Int J Biol Macromol 2020; 164:3369-3375. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2020.08.198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Revised: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
|
44
|
Xie H, Tuo X, Zhang F, Bowen L, Zhao W, Xu Y. Dietary cucurbitacin E reduces high-strength altitude training induced oxidative stress, inflammation and immunosuppression. AN ACAD BRAS CIENC 2020; 92:e20200012. [PMID: 33206789 DOI: 10.1590/0001-3765202020200012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2020] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Professional athletes conduct high-intensitive hypoxic training often accompanied by the increase of many inflammatory-related cytokines and immunosuppression. Cucurbitacin E (CucE), as a triterpenoid isolated from Cucurbitaceae plants, exert potential anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory. However, it is unknown whether that the CucE could be used as dietary supplement for athletes to improve inflammatory response and immunosuppression. In this study, we established the simulative hypoxic training rat and monkey models and evaluated the effects of CucE on immune- and inflammation-related factors. Obvious improvement on pro-inflammatory factors and pro-lymphocyte proliferation activities were showed in CucE treated rats compared with the control. Further supplement of CucE in professional meals for cynomolgus monkeys with 4-weeks high-intensitive hypoxic training also exert effects on altitude-induced oxidative stress, inflammation and immunologic function. Furtherly, we explored the underlying mechanism of CucE in human Jurkat T cells and results showed that CucE may exhibit immunosuppressive effect by attenuating critical cytokine expression through down-regulating the NF-κB signaling pathway. In conclusion, CucE is expected to be a potential dietary supplement for athletes to ameliorate the inflammation and immunosuppression caused by high-intensitive exercise.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hezhi Xie
- Department of sports training, Guangzhou Sport University, Guangdong 510000, China
| | - Xinling Tuo
- Department of sports, Guangdong Mechanical and Electrical Polytechnic, Guangdong 510000, China
| | - Feng Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial Youth Basketball Training Base, Guangdong 510000, China
| | - Laura Bowen
- Guangdong Provincial Youth Basketball Training Base, Guangdong 510000, China.,School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston B15 2TT, UK
| | - Wei Zhao
- Physical Training Research Center, Guangdong Justice Police Vocational College, Guangdong 510000, China.,Sports Medicine Center, Soochow University, Jiangsu 2150000, P.R. China
| | - Yuyou Xu
- Physical Training Research Center, Guangdong Justice Police Vocational College, Guangdong 510000, China
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Muhammad A, Feng X, Rasool A, Sun W, Li C. Production of plant natural products through engineered Yarrowia lipolytica. Biotechnol Adv 2020; 43:107555. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2020.107555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2020] [Revised: 04/13/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
|
46
|
Lee AS, Hur HJ, Sung MJ. The Effect of Artemisinin on Inflammation-Associated Lymphangiogenesis in Experimental Acute Colitis. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21218068. [PMID: 33138094 PMCID: PMC7662347 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21218068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Revised: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is characterized by inflammation, angiogenesis, and lymphangiogenesis. Artemisinin (Art), a chemical compound isolated from Artemisia annua L. (sweet wormwood), has several biochemical properties including antibacterial, anticancer, anti-inflammation, and anti-angiogenesis effects. We investigated the effects of Art on inflammation-induced lymphangiogenesis in a dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced mouse acute colitis model. The mice were orally administered Art for 7 days before being evaluated using the disease activity index (DAI) and documenting colonic inflammatory changes, colon edema, microvessel density, lymphatic vessel density (LVD), proinflammatory cytokine levels, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-C and VEGF-D/VEGF receptor (VEGFR)-3 mRNA expression levels in colon tissue. Art reduced DSS-induced lymphatic vessel endothelial hyaluronan receptor-1-positive LVD. Art also reduced the symptoms of colitis, improved tissue histology, and relieved inflammatory edema in mice affected by colitis. In addition, Art decreased the infiltration of immunomodulatory cells and inflammatory cytokines, which involved reduction of VEGF-C, -D, and VEGFR-3 expression. Taken together, our findings suggest that Art ameliorates inflammation-driven lymphangiogenesis in an experimental colitis mouse model via the VEGF-C/VEGFR-3 signaling pathway, implicating this pathway as a potential target for the treatment of IBD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mi Jeong Sung
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-10-219-9316; Fax: +82-10-219-9876
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Augustin Y, Staines HM, Krishna S. Artemisinins as a novel anti-cancer therapy: Targeting a global cancer pandemic through drug repurposing. Pharmacol Ther 2020; 216:107706. [PMID: 33075360 PMCID: PMC7564301 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2020.107706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Revised: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Artemisinins are a unique class of antimalarial drugs with significant potential for drug repurposing for a wide range of diseases including cancer. Cancer is a leading cause of death globally and the majority of cancer related deaths occur in Low and Middle Income Countries (LMICs) where conventional treatment options are often limited by financial cost. Drug repurposing can significantly shorten new therapeutic discovery pathways, ensuring greater accessibility and affordability globally. Artemisinins have an excellent safety and tolerability profile as well as being affordable for deployment in Low and Middle Class Income Countries at around USD1 per daily dose. Robust, well designed clinical trials of artemisinin drug repurposing are indicated for a variety of different cancers and treatment settings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yolanda Augustin
- Institute of Infection & Immunity, St George's University of London, United Kingdom
| | - Henry M Staines
- Institute of Infection & Immunity, St George's University of London, United Kingdom
| | - Sanjeev Krishna
- Institute of Infection & Immunity, St George's University of London, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
The potential of artemisinins as anti-obesity agents via modulating the immune system. Pharmacol Ther 2020; 216:107696. [PMID: 33022301 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2020.107696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Revised: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Artemisinin and its derivatives are the most effective antimalarial drugs. Besides anti-malarial activity, artemisinin and its derivatives have displayed wide-spectrum bioactivities such as anti-parasite, anti-tumor, and anti-obesity effects. Obesity is an epidemic worldwide which is a big threat to human health, but there are only a few approved anti-obesity drugs in the world. Also, these drugs are efficient to limited patients partly because their safety and efficacy are questioned. Anti-inflammatory therapies may be valuable in obesity treatment since growing evidence shows chronic metabolic inflammation is implicated in metabolic disease pathogenesis. As artemisinin and its derivatives display effective anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory properties with less toxicity, it provides an insight for novel drug development in obesity therapeutic strategies via immune-regulatory mechanisms. In this review, the potential of artemisinin and its derivatives to treat various metabolic diseases such as obesity and diabetes is discussed.
Collapse
|
49
|
Hou K, Tong J, Zhang H, Gao S, Guo Y, Niu H, Xiong B, Jiang L. Microbiome and metabolic changes in milk in response to artemisinin supplementation in dairy cows. AMB Express 2020; 10:154. [PMID: 32833065 PMCID: PMC7445214 DOI: 10.1186/s13568-020-01080-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to explore the effects of artemisinin (ART) on the milk microbiome and metabolites of dairy cow. A total of 12 mid-lactation Holstein dairy cows with similar parity, days in milk were randomly divided into 2 groups receiving either a total mixed ration (TMR) as the control group or this TMR and 120 g/d/head ART as the ART group. The milk samples were collected weekly to determine the contents, and end-of-trial (week 8) milk samples were used to identify microbial species and metabolite profiles by 16S rRNA sequencing and LC–MS analyses, respectively. We observed that the milk fat content significantly increased by ART treatment (P < 0.05). The bacterial community richness was significantly lower in the ART group (P < 0.05), while the diversity showed no difference (P > 0.05). Compared with its abundance in the control (CON) group, Firmicutes was significantly decreased, whereas Proteobacteria was significantly increased. Furthermore, in the ART group, the relative abundances of the genera Aerococcus, Staphylococcus, Corynebacterium_1 and Facklamia were significantly lower (P < 0.01). Metabolomics analysis revealed that ART significantly increasing the concentrations of glycerophospholipids, glycerolipids and flavonoids compared with those in the CON group. An enrichment analysis of the different metabolites showed that ART mainly affected glycerophospholipid metabolism and the pantothenate and CoA biosynthesis pathways. These findings revealed that ART supplementation could affect the milk microbiota and metabolites, that glycerophospholipids and glycerolipids could be potential biomarkers in the milk response to ART feed in dairy cows, and that ART changes substances in milk by maintaining lipid metabolism in the mammary gland.
Collapse
|
50
|
Tang Y, Liu J, Zhang D, Xu Z, Ji J, Wen C. Cytokine Storm in COVID-19: The Current Evidence and Treatment Strategies. Front Immunol 2020; 11:1708. [PMID: 32754163 PMCID: PMC7365923 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.01708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 658] [Impact Index Per Article: 164.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-Cov-2) is the pathogen that causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). As of 25 May 2020, the outbreak of COVID-19 has caused 347,192 deaths around the world. The current evidence showed that severely ill patients tend to have a high concentration of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin (IL)-6, compared to those who are moderately ill. The high level of cytokines also indicates a poor prognosis in COVID-19. Besides, excessive infiltration of pro-inflammatory cells, mainly involving macrophages and T-helper 17 cells, has been found in lung tissues of patients with COVID-19 by postmortem examination. Recently, increasing studies indicate that the "cytokine storm" may contribute to the mortality of COVID-19. Here, we summarize the clinical and pathologic features of the cytokine storm in COVID-19. Our review shows that SARS-Cov-2 selectively induces a high level of IL-6 and results in the exhaustion of lymphocytes. The current evidence indicates that tocilizumab, an IL-6 inhibitor, is relatively effective and safe. Besides, corticosteroids, programmed cell death protein (PD)-1/PD-L1 checkpoint inhibition, cytokine-adsorption devices, intravenous immunoglobulin, and antimalarial agents could be potentially useful and reliable approaches to counteract cytokine storm in COVID-19 patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Jinjun Ji
- College of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chengping Wen
- College of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|