Oxidative Stress and Salvia miltiorrhiza in Aging-Associated Cardiovascular Diseases

Elucidating the chemical interaction effects of herb pair Danshen-Chuanxiong and its anti-ischemic stroke activities evaluation

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge (Danshen) and Ligusticum chuanxiong Hort. (Chuanxiong) is the core herb pair in traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) formulae for treating ischemic stroke. However, the synergistic effect of Danshen-Chuanxiong against anti-ischemic stroke and its compatibility mechanism remains unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to uncover the compatibility mechanism of Danshen-Chuanxiong against ischemic stroke through chemical profiling, pharmacodynamics evaluation, network pharmacology and experimental validation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ultra-high performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) combined with quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (QTOF-MS) and UHPLC connected with tandem triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (QQQ-MS) were utilized to conduct the chemical interaction analysis. Then the synergistic effects of Danshen-Chuanxiong against ischemic stroke were comprehensively evaluated by the middle cerebral artery occlusion reperfusion (MCAO/R) mice model, zebrafish ischemic stroke model and glutamic acid-induced PC12 cells injury model. Afterwards, network pharmacology and molecular docking were applied to dissect the significant active compounds and potential mechanisms. Finally, the key target proteins were experimentally validated by Western blot.

RESULTS

83 compounds were characterized in Danshen-Chuanxiong by UHPLC-QTOF-MS analysis, and 4 compounds were tentatively identified for the first time. The quantification results (24 accurately identified compounds) in 13 proportions of Danshen-Chuanxiong revealed that Danshen significantly increased the dissolution of most phthalides (from Chuanxiong), while Chuanxiong facilitated the dissolution of most phenolic acids (from Danshen) in solution. The anti-ischemic stroke effects of Danshen-Chuanxiong were significantly better than Danshen or Chuanxiong in attenuating infarct size, reducing brain edema and neurological scores in MCAO/R mice. Also, compared with single herbs, this herb pair exerted better effects of suppressing the incidence of cerebral thrombosis in zebrafish, and increasing the cell viability of glutamic acid-induced PC12 cells. In network pharmacology, 7 effective compounds (rosmarinic acid, chlorogenic acid, salvianolic acid B, (Z)-ligustilide, ferulic acid, caffeic acid, tanshinone IIA) and 5 hub targets (AKT, TNF-α, IL-1β, CASP3 and BCL2) as well as 4 key pathways were predicted. Western blot results showed that Danshen-Chuanxiong exert therapeutic effects mainly through decreasing the protein expressions of TNF-α, IL-1β and Cleaved-CASP3, elevating the levels of p-AKT and BCL2.

CONCLUSIONS

This work provided an integration strategy for uncovering the synergistic effects and compatibility mechanism of Danshen-Chuanxiong herb pair for treating ischemic stroke, and laid foundation for the further development and utilization of this herb pair.

Potential chemoprotective effects of active ingredients in Salvia miltiorrhiza on doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity: a systematic review of in vitro and in vivo studies

Background

Recently, attention has been paid to the protective properties of active ingredients in Salvia miltiorrhiza (AISM) against organ toxicity induced by chemotherapy drugs. Purpose of the present systematic review is to evaluate the chemoprotective effects and mechanisms of AISM on in vitro and in vivo models of doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity (DIC).

Methods

According to the PRISMA guideline, the current systematic review was conducted in the Web of Science, PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library to collect all relevant in vitro and in vivo studies on "the role of AISM on DIC" published up until May 2023. The SYRCLE's tool was used to identify potential risk of bias.

Results

Twenty-two eligible articles were included in this systematic review. Eleven types of active ingredients in Salvia miltiorrhiza were used for DIC, which have the following effects: improvement of physical signs and biochemical indicators, reduction of cardiac function damage caused by DIC, protection of heart tissue structure, enhancement of myocardial cell viability, prevention of cardiomyocyte apoptosis, increase of the chemosensitivity of cancer cells to Doxorubicin, etc. The cardioprotective mechanism of AISM involves inhibiting apoptosis, attenuating oxidative stress, suppressing endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, decreasing inflammation, improving mitochondrial structure and function, affecting cellular autophagy and calcium homeostasis. The quality scores of included studies ranged from 4 to 7 points (a total of 10 points), according to SYRCLE's risk of bias tool.

Conclusion

This systematic review demonstrated that AISM have chemoprotective effects on DIC in vivo and in vitro models through several main mechanisms such as anti-apoptosis, antioxidant effects, anti-ER stress, and anti-inflammatory.

Protocol for rheumatoid arthritis complicated with cardiovascular damage treated with Guanxining tablet with a randomized controlled trial

Background

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the main cause of death in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Apart from traditional cardiovascular risk factors, immune dysfunction and chronic inflammation of RA are also risk factors for complex cardiovascular damage. Although methotrexate (MTX) is beneficial to CVD in RA patients by inhibiting inflammation, its adverse effects limit its clinical application. Therefore, it is essential to seek safer and more effective drugs.

Objective

We aimed to assess the efficacy of Guanxining Tablet (GXNT) for rheumatoid arthritis complicated with cardiovascular damage.

Methods

We will conduct a prospective single-center randomized trial. We will randomly divide 56 eligible patients into two groups. The treatment group will take GXNT and MTX treatment, and the control group will receive MTX and the placebo. The primary outcome measure will be aortic distensibility (AD). Secondary outcome measures will be Cardiac function which will contain right ventricular outflow tract diameter (RVOTD), aortic diameter (AOD), left atrium diameter (LAD), right ventricular end diastolic diameter (RVDD), left ventricular end diastolic diameter (LVDD), ejection fraction (EF%), fractional shortening (FS%), stroke volume (SV). Adverse events will be closely monitored during the entire trial period.

Discussion

This trial is intended to determine whether the addition of GXNT will improve the prognosis of patients with rheumatoid arthritis and cardiovascular damage without severe adverse reactions. Completing this clinical trial might provide these patients with a novel and effective drug while avoiding adverse reactions similar to methotrexate.

Trial registration

ChiCTR2000030247.

Chemical Modification of Polysaccharides: A Review of Synthetic Approaches, Biological Activity and the Structure-Activity Relationship

Natural polysaccharides are macromolecular substances with great potential owing to their wide biological activity and low toxicity. However, not all polysaccharides have significant pharmacodynamic activity; hence, appropriate chemical modification methods can be selected according to the unique structural characteristics of polysaccharides to assist in enhancing and promoting the presentation of their biological activities. This review summarizes research progress on modified polysaccharides, including common chemical modification methods, the change in biological activity following modification, and the factors affecting the biological activity of chemically modified polysaccharides. At the same time, the difficulties and challenges associated with the structural modification of natural polysaccharides are also outlined in this review. Thus, research on polysaccharide structure modification is critical for improving the development and utilization of sugar products.

Network Pharmacology of Ginseng (Part III): Antitumor Potential of a Fixed Combination of Red Ginseng and Red Sage as Determined by Transcriptomics

Background: This study aimed to assess the effect of a fixed combination of Red Ginseng and Red Sage (RG–RS) on the gene expression of neuronal cells to evaluate the potential impacts on cellular functions and predict its relevance in the treatment of stress and aging-related diseases and disorders. Methods: Gene expression profiling was conducted by transcriptome-wide mRNA microarray analyses of murine HT22 hippocampal cell culture after treatment with RG–RS preparation. Ingenuity pathway analysis (IPA) was performed with datasets of significantly upregulated or downregulated genes and the expected effects on the physiological and cellular function and the diseases were identified. Results: RG–RS deregulates 1028 genes associated with cancer and 139 with metastasis, suggesting a predicted decrease in tumorigenesis, the proliferation of tumor cells, tumor growth, metastasis, and an increase in apoptosis and autophagy by their effects on the various signaling and metabolic pathways, including the inhibition of Warburg’s aerobic glycolysis, estrogen-mediated S-phase entry signaling, osteoarthritis signaling, and the super-pathway of cholesterol biosynthesis. Conclusion: The results of this study provide evidence of the potential efficacy of the fixed combination of Red Ginseng (Panax ginseng C.A. Mey.) and Red Sage/Danshen (Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge) in cancer. Further clinical and experimental studies are required to assess the efficacy and safety of RG–RS in preventing the progression of cancer, osteoarthritis, and other aging-related diseases.

A Review on the Pharmacological Activities of Salvia Miltiorrhizae Radix Using International Classification of Disease, 10th Revision (ICD-10) Codes

Salvia Miltiorrhizae Radix (SMR) is a widely-used herbal medicine for the treatment of various blood stasis-related diseases (mainly circulatory system). It has been extensively studied in the field of pharmacology over the last few decades. In addition, several reviews concerning the effect of SMR are available. The purpose of this study was to review the pharmacological activities of SMC based on the 10th revision of the international disease classification (ICD-10). After an analysis of the literatures in the Medline database between January 1988 and August 2018, 691 eligible articles were chosen and 971 results were obtained (395 in vitro, 536 in vivo, and 40 human). The extracted data were categorized into the disease chapters of the ICD-10 and the major chapters were: IX Diseases of the circulatory system, II Neoplasms, XI Diseases of the digestive system, XIX Injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes, IV Endocrine, nutritional, and metabolic diseases, VI Diseases of the nervous system, V Mental and behavioral disorders, etc. The major diseases and the pharmacological results of each chapter of the ICD-10 were described assiduously, along with the statistical details. The current study provided a comprehensive understanding and insight of SMR in terms of pharmacological activities.

Comparative proteomics reveals biochemical changes in Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge during sweating processing

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge is a bulk medicinal material used in traditional Chinese medicine, that can cure cardiovascular diseases, neurasthenia, and other conditions. Sweating is a frequently used method of processing S. miltiorrhiza for medical applications. We previously demonstrated changes to the metabolic profile of linoleic acid, glyoxylate, and dicarboxylate after Sweating. However, this alteration has not been explained at the molecular level.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fresh roots of Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge were treated by the Sweating processing, and then the tandem mass tag technique was used to compare the proteome difference between Sweating S. miltiorrhiza and non-Sweating S. miltiorrhiza.

RESULTS

We identified a total of 850 differentially expressed proteins after Sweating treatment in S. miltiorrhiza, including 529 upregulated proteins and 321 downregulated proteins. GO enrichment analysis indicated that these differentially expressed proteins are involved in external encapsulating structure, cell wall, oxidoreductase activity, ligase activity, and others. Further analysis showed that CYP450, the pathogenesis-related protein Bet v 1 family, and the peroxidase domain were the major protein domains. KEGG enrichment identified 18 pathways, of which phenylpropanoid biosynthesis is the most important one related to the metabolite profile and is the principal chemical component of S. miltiorrhiza.

CONCLUSION

This study addressed potential molecular mechanisms in S. miltiorrhiza after Sweating, and the findings provide reasons for the changes in biochemical properties and metabolites changes which might cause pharmacological variation at the proteome level.

Targeting Oxidative Stress and Endothelial Dysfunction Using Tanshinone IIA for the Treatment of Tissue Inflammation and Fibrosis

Salvia miltiorrhiza Burge (Danshen), a member of the Lamiaceae family, has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for many centuries as a valuable medicinal herb with antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and antifibrotic potential. Several evidence-based reports have suggested that Salvia miltiorrhiza and its components prevent vascular diseases, including myocardial infarction, myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury, arrhythmia, cardiac hypertrophy, and cardiac fibrosis. Tanshinone IIA (TanIIA), a lipophilic component of Salvia miltiorrhiza, has gained attention because of its possible preventive and curative activity against cardiovascular disorders. TanIIA, which possesses antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and antifibrotic properties, could be a key component in the therapeutic potential of Salvia miltiorrhiza. Vascular diseases are often initiated by endothelial dysfunction, which is accompanied by vascular inflammation and fibrosis. In this review, we summarize how TanIIA suppresses tissue inflammation and fibrosis through signaling pathways such as PI3K/Akt/mTOR/eNOS, TGF-β1/Smad2/3, NF-κB, JNK/SAPK (stress-activated protein kinase)/MAPK, and ERK/Nrf2 pathways. In brief, this review illustrates the therapeutic value of TanIIA in the alleviation of oxidative stress, inflammation, and fibrosis, which are critical components of cardiovascular disorders.

The Utilization of Chinese Herbal Products for Hyperthyroidism in National Health Insurance System (NHIRD) of Taiwan: A Population-Based Study

Background. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) relieves associated symptoms of hyperthyroidism such as heat intolerance, palpitations, tremor, anxiety, weight loss, increased frequency of bowel movements, and shortness of breath. However, there are no studies regarding the core prescription patterns of herbal formula and single herbs for hyperthyroidism in Taiwan. Materials and Methods. This is a retrospective, observational study using the National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD) in Taiwan to analyze the prescription patterns of TCM. Demographic factors, such as sex, age, occupational status, and residential area, and the risk factors for hyperthyroidism were also studied. Results. The outpatient or/and inpatient services for hyperthyroidism receive 17,707 cases in a year. Overall, there were 13,394 newly diagnosed patients. TCM was used in 73% of the patients, and 77.3% of the patients were females. The acceptability of TCM was higher among female patients. Most patients were diagnosed with hyperthyroidism between the ages of 30 and 49 years. The most common comorbidity identified was diabetes mellitus. The most commonly prescribed Chinese herbal product (CHP) formula was Jia-Wei-Xia-Yao-San, while Xia-Ku-Cao was the most commonly prescribed single CHP. There was a high coprescription rate for Xuan-Shen, Bei-Mu, and Mu-Li. Conclusion. This study describes the core prescription pattern of TCM used in the treatment of patients with hyperthyroidism in Taiwan. The most frequently used CHPs could be potential candidates for future pharmacologic studies or clinical trials.

Salvia miltiorrhiza Protects Endothelial Dysfunction against Mitochondrial Oxidative Stress

Salvia miltiorrhiza (SM) is a common traditional Chinese medicine used in the treatment of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Endothelial dysfunction plays an important role in the pathology of cardiovascular diseases. Endothelial dysfunction may induce inflammation and change vascular tone and permeability. The main pathological mechanism of endothelial dysfunction is the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Mitochondria are the main source of energy and can also produce large amounts of ROS. Recent studies have shown that extracts of SM have antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and antithrombus properties. In this review, we discuss the mechanism of oxidative stress in the mitochondria, endothelial dysfunction, and the role of SM in these oxidative events.

Salvia Species as Nutraceuticals: Focus on Antioxidant, Antidiabetic and Anti-Obesity Properties

Salvia plants belong to the Lamiaceae family and are recognized as being strongly aromatic, being widely used for different purposes in culinary or traditional medicine. These plants are well recognized as being rich in phenolic acids, flavonoids and terpenic compounds, which exhibit health-beneficial activities, protecting against oxidative and inflammatory-related diseases, such as diabetes and obesity. Because of these properties, phytochemicals from Salvia species have been investigated as health promoting agents, for application in distinct fields. However, the growing demand for natural products with possible uses and applications in industry requires scientific validation studies. This review consists of a compilation of relevant studies with an emphasis on the antioxidant, antidiabetic and anti-obesity properties of phenolic-rich extracts from Salvia plants.

Assessment of Protective Effects of Methanolic Extract of Salvia verbenaca Roots Against Oxidative Damage Induced by Hydrogen Peroxide

Objectives

Salvia verbenaca is a medicinal plant that has been traditionally used in Algeria for the treatment of wounds and emptied abscesses. The present study aimed to evaluate the cytotoxicity of methanolic extract of S. verbenaca roots and explore its ability to bestow protection against oxidative damage induced by H₂O₂ (200 μM).

Materials and Methods

The cytotoxic effects and protective properties of S. verbenaca on human monocytic leukemia cells (THP-1) was studied using thiazolyl blue tetrazolium bromide assay. The protective effects of the extract against H₂O₂-induced oxidative damage was evaluated using single cell gel electrophoresis (comet) assay and 2,7-dichlorodihydrofluorescien diacetate (H2DCFDA) assay.

Results

S. verbenaca extract was found to be non-cytotoxic at concentrations <500 μg/mL. However, the use of 500 and 1000 μg/mL of the extract decreasedcell viability. H2DCFDA assay provided evidence for anti-oxidative properties of S. verbenaca. Addition of S. verbenaca (1 and 10 μg/mL) resulted in significant reductionin H₂O₂-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Further, comet assay showed that addition of the extract resulted in a significant reductionin the length and % DNA content of comet tail. Additionally,nuclei in the cells also appeared to be devoid ofdegradation.

Conclusion

The use of S. verbenaca root extract conferred protection against H₂O₂-induced ROS production and DNA breakage in vitro.

Salvianolic Acid B Protects Intervertebral Discs from Oxidative Stress-Induced Degeneration via Activation of the JAK2/STAT3 Signaling Pathway

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the influence of salvianolic acid B (SAB), an antioxidant derived from Danshen, on intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) and its possible molecular mechanisms.

METHODS

Sixty adult rats were randomly grouped (control, IDD, and SAB IDD groups). IDD was induced using needle puncture. The rats received daily administration of SAB (20 mg/kg) in the SAB IDD group while the other two groups received only distilled water. The extent of IDD was evaluated using MRI after 3 and 6 weeks and histology after 6 weeks. Oxidative stress was assessed using the ELISA method. In in vitro experiments, nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs) were treated with H2O2 (100 μM) or SAB+H2O2, and levels of oxidative stress were measured. Cell apoptosis was assessed by flow cytometry, expression levels of Bcl-2, Bax, and cleaved caspase-3 proteins. Cell proliferation rate was assessed by EdU analysis. Pathway involvement was determined by Western blotting while the influence of the pathway on NPCs was explored using the pathway inhibitor AG490.

RESULTS

The data demonstrate that SAB attenuated injury-induced IDD and oxidative stress, caused by activation of the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway in vivo. Oxidative stress induced by H2O2 was reversed by SAB in vitro. SAB reduced the increased cell apoptosis, cleaved caspase-3 expression, and caspase-3 activity induced by H2O2. Reduced cell proliferation and decreased Bcl-2/Bax ratio induced by H2O2 were rescued by SAB. Additionally, the JAK2/STAT3 pathway was activated by SAB, while AG490 counteracted this effect.

CONCLUSION

The results suggest that SAB protects intervertebral discs from oxidative stress-induced degeneration by enhancing proliferation and attenuating apoptosis via activation of the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway.

Network Pharmacology-Based Approach Uncovers the Mechanism of GuanXinNing Tablet for Treating Thrombus by MAPKs Signal Pathway

Background

GuanXinNing tablet (GXNT), a traditional Chinese patent medicine, has been found to have remarkable antithrombotic effects and can effectively inhibit pro-thrombotic factors in previous studies. However, the mechanism of its antithrombotic effects remains little known.

Methods

In this study, we first determined and identified the sources of each main compound in GXNT using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Through the approach of network pharmacology, we predicted the action targets of the active components, mapped the target genes related to thrombus, and obtained potential antithrombotic targets for active ingredients. We then performed gene ontology (GO) enrichment analyses and KEGG signaling pathway analyses for the action targets, and constructed networks of active component–target and active component–target–pathway for GXNT. Additionally, we evaluated the pharmacodynamic effects of GXNT on thrombus using the rat thrombus model induced by FeCl₃, observed the effects of antiplatelet aggregation via platelet assay, and further verified the results predicted by network pharmacology via Western blot.

Results

In total, 14 active ingredients were identified in GXNT, and 83 action targets were predicted, 17 of which are antithrombotic targets that potentially participate in processes including response to oxidative stress and positive regulation of blood vessel endothelial cell migration. KEGG pathway analyses revealed that the predicted action targets were involved in multiple signal pathways, such as MAPK, IL-17, and platelet activation. Pharmacodynamics study found that GXNT could significantly reduce the thrombus length and weight, lower platelet aggregation function, and decrease the levels of Fbg and PAI-1. In addition, GXNT could significantly increase 6-keto-PGF1α content and regulate the ratio of TXB₂/6-keto-PGF1α, while not having dramatic effects on TXB₂. GXNT was also observed to visibly inhibit maximum platelet aggregation. Herein, we further studied the thrombus-related MAPKs signaling pathway and found that GXNT could significantly reduce the phosphorylation levels of p38MAPK, ERK, and JNK proteins in platelet.

Conclusions

This study revealed the pharmacodynamic material basis of GXNT and its potential multicomponent–multitarget–multipath pharmacological effects, confirmed the antithrombotic effects of GXNT, and showed that its mechanism may be related to inhibiting phosphorylation of p38, ERK, and JNK proteins in MAPKs signaling pathway, partially verifying the results from network pharmacology. The results from this study could provide a theoretical basis for the development and clinical application of GXNT.

Protein and Mitochondria Quality Control Mechanisms and Cardiac Aging

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the number one cause of death in the United States. Advancing age is a primary risk factor for developing CVD. Estimates indicate that 20% of the US population will be ≥65 years old by 2030. Direct expenditures for treating CVD in the older population combined with indirect costs, secondary to lost wages, are predicted to reach $1.1 trillion by 2035. Therefore, there is an eminent need to discover novel therapeutic targets and identify new interventions to delay, lessen the severity, or prevent cardiovascular complications associated with advanced age. Protein and organelle quality control pathways including autophagy/lysosomal and the ubiquitin-proteasome systems, are emerging contributors of age-associated myocardial dysfunction. In general, two findings have sparked this interest. First, strong evidence indicates that cardiac protein degradation pathways are altered in the heart with aging. Second, it is well accepted that damaged and misfolded protein aggregates and dysfunctional mitochondria accumulate in the heart with age. In this review, we will: (i) define the different protein and mitochondria quality control mechanisms in the heart; (ii) provide evidence that each quality control pathway becomes dysfunctional during cardiac aging; and (iii) discuss current advances in targeting these pathways to maintain cardiac function with age.

Plant-Derived Molecules α-Boswellic Acid Acetate, Praeruptorin-A, and Salvianolic Acid-B Have Age-Related Differential Effects in Young and Senescent Human Fibroblasts In Vitro

Testing and screening of plant-derived molecules on normal human cells in vitro is a widely used approach for discovering their eventual health beneficial effects for human ageing and longevity. As little is known about age-associated differential effects of such molecules, here we report that young (<25% replicative lifespan completed) and near-senescent (>90% replicative lifespan completed) human skin fibroblasts exposed for 1–15 days to a wide range of concentrations (0.1–100 μM) of the three selected phytochemicals, namely α-boswellic acid acetate (ABC), praeruptorin-A (PTA), and salvianolic acid-B (SAB) had age-related differential effects. The parameters studied were the metabolic activity (MTT assay), cellular morphological phenotype, one-step growth characteristics, expression of genes involved in the cell cycle regulation and cytokine network genes, protein levels of p53, cytosolic superoxide dismutase (SOD1) and microtubule-associated protein 1A/1B-light chain 3 (LC3), and the extent of protein carbonylation and protein aggregation as a sign of oxidative stress. All three compounds showed biphasic hormetic dose response by stimulating cell growth, survival and metabolic activity at low doses (up to 1 μM), while showing inhibitory effects at high doses (>10 μM). Furthermore, the response of early passage young cells was different from that of the late passage near-senescent cells, especially with respect to the expression of cell cycle-related and inflammation-related genes. Such studies have importance with respect to the use of low doses of such molecules as health-promoting and/or ageing-interventions through the phenomenon of hormesis.

Danshen formula granule and salvianic acid A alleviate ethanol-induced neurotoxicity

As a direct neurotoxin, ethanol exposure is associated with nerve damage and dysfunction of central nervous system (CNS) and induced obvious neurotoxicity by increasing the reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, activation of endogenous apoptotic as well as necrotic signals, and other molecular mechanisms. The previous studies had demonstrated that natural herbal medicine offers protective effectiveness on ethanol-induced nerve cell damage. Danshen and its extracts have been known to have an antioxidant property and neuroprotective effects. However, the protective effects of Danshen formula granule and salvianic acid A on ethanol-induced neurotoxicity remain unknown. In this study, we found that the Danshen formula granule and salvianic acid A significantly inhibited the ethanol-induced cell death, blocked LDH release, and reduced dendritic spine loss. Furthermore, the intracellular ROS, MDA production, and ethanol-induced apoptosis were significantly ameliorated with Danshen formula granule and salvianic acid A pretreatment by increasing the antioxidant enzymatic activity of CAT, SOD and GSH-Px, and inhibiting apoptotic pathways. In addition, Danshen formula granule and salvianic acid A pretreatment obviously inhibit the apoptotic pathways by regulating the protein expression of Bcl-2, Bax, and Caspase-3. In conclusion, our data demonstrated that the Danshen formula granule and salvianic acid A provide a significantly protective effectiveness against ethanol-induced neurotoxicity, which might be a potential therapeutic drug for ethanol-induced neurological disorders.

Current Progress of Research on Neurodegenerative Diseases of Salvianolic Acid B

Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge (Lamiaceae), one of the most commonly used traditional Chinese herbs, is widely used for the treatment of cardiovascular disease, cerebrovascular disease, Alzheimer's disease, and Parkinson's disease in clinical practice. Salvianolic acid B (Sal B, C₃₆H₃₀O₁₆, FW = 718.62) is the main water-soluble active ingredient of Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge, which performs prophylactic and therapeutic activities against neurodegenerative diseases. So far, numerous studies have proved that multiple factors and mechanisms are involved in the pathological process of neurodegenerative diseases, including amyloid β (Aβ) aggregation and fibril formation, hyperphosphorylation of tau protein, neuroinflammation, oxidative-stress damage, mitochondrial dysfunction, and neuron apoptosis. This study is aimed at reviewing experimental studies and describing the possible mechanisms of Sal B on neurodegenerative diseases.

Enhanced Neurogenesis and Collaterogenesis by Sodium Danshensu Treatment After Focal Cerebral Ischemia in Mice

Ischemic stroke remains a serious threat to human life. There are limited effective therapies for the treatment of stroke. We have previously demonstrated that angiogenesis and neurogenesis in the brain play an important role in functional recovery following ischemic stroke. Recent studies indicate that increased arteriogenesis and collateral circulation are determining factors for restoring reperfusion and outcomes of stroke patients. Danshensu, the Salvia miltiorrhiza root extract, is used in treatments of various human ischemic events in traditional Chinese medicine. Its therapeutic mechanism, however, is not well clarified. Due to its proposed effect on angiogenesis and arteriogenesis, we hypothesized that danshensu could benefit stroke recovery through stimulating neurogenesis and collaterogenesis in the post-ischemia brain. Focal ischemic stroke targeting the right sensorimotor cortex was induced in wild-type C57BL6 mice and transgenic mice expressing green fluorescent protein (GFP) to label smooth muscle cells of brain arteries. Sodium danshensu (SDS, 700 mg/kg) was administered intraperitoneally (i.p.) 10 min after stroke and once daily until animals were sacrificed. To label proliferating cells, 5-bromo-2′-deoxyuridine (BrdU; 50 mg/kg, i.p.) was administered, starting on day 3 after ischemia and continued once daily until sacrifice. At 14 days after stroke, SDS significantly increased the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), stromal-derived factor-1 (SDF-1), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) in the peri-infarct region. SDS-treated animals showed increased number of doublecortin (DCX)-positive cells. Greater numbers of proliferating endothelial cells and smooth muscle cells were detected in SDS-treated mice 21 days after stroke in comparison with vehicle controls. The number of newly formed neurons labeled by NeuN and BrdU antibodies increased in SDS-treated mice 28 days after stroke. SDS significantly increased the newly formed arteries and the diameter of collateral arteries, leading to enhanced local cerebral blood flow recovery after stroke. These results suggest that systemic sodium danshensu treatment shows significant regenerative effects in the post-ischemic brain, which may benefit long-term functional recovery from ischemic stroke.

Pharmacokinetic Drug Interaction Between Rosuvastatin and Tanjin in Healthy Volunteers and Rats

Background

Tanjin is an herbal medicine made from the root of salvia miltiorrhiza. It is predominantly given to arteriosclerotic patients as a supplement to ameliorate the clinical symptoms of cardiovascular diseases. In China, tanjin is used frequently in combination treatment for hypercholesterolemia. Thus, there is a high probability of combination of tanjin and statins in these arteriosclerotic patients. This study investigated the interaction between tanjin and rosuvastatin.

Methods

We performed a randomized single-blind, two-period crossover clinical trial on six healthy male volunteers. Volunteers were administered rosuvastatin with placebo or a tanjin-containing drug randomly. The blood samples were collected before drug administration, and at 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 4, 8, and 12 hours after administration. Lymphocytes were isolated from blood samples before and 12 hours after drug administration to measure mRNA. As an animal experiment, an in situ intestinal injection with portal vein sampling model was used to examine the interaction between tanjin and rosuvastatin during the absorption phase. Rosuvastatin or rosuvastatin combined with tanjin solution was injected into the intestine. After injection, blood from the portal vein was collected and the concentration of rosuvastatin was measured by LC/MS/MS analysis. A portion of the intestine and liver from the rats was collected and stored at -80°C for mRNA measurement.

Results

In the clinical trial, co-administration of tanjin decreased the maximum plasma concentration (C_max) of rosuvastatin by 26.85% compared with rosuvastatin alone, and also decreased the area under the plasma concentration-time curve of rosuvastatin from 0 to 12 h (AUC_0-12) by 19.43%. The relative expression of BCRP and OATP mRNA in human lymphocytes was increased by co-administration of tanjin. In the animal experiment, co-administration of tanjin extract reduced the concentration of rosuvastatin to 84.4, 64.4, and 50.0% at 15, 30, and 45 minutes, respectively. The tanjin-containing drug had a similar effect to tanjin extract. Furthermore, tanjin significantly reduced the absorption of rosuvastatin and the inhibitory effects lasted for at least 24 hours. Tanjin increased the relative expression of BCRP mRNA in the intestine, but it did not change the expression of OATP. Moreover, the concentration of rosuvastatin in the portal vein and systemic blood was reduced. In the liver, tanjin increased both BCRP and OATP mRNA expression, which was consistent with the results from human lymphocytes.

Conclusion

The clinical trial and animal experiment revealed that tanjin can significantly reduce the absorption of rosuvastatin. This interaction occurred, at least, at the absorption phase in the small intestine due to the enhanced efflux transport. Thus, as tanjin and rosuvastatin were found to interact, their combination needs to be paid attention to.

Biosynthesis, Chemistry, and Pharmacology of Polyphenols from Chinese Salvia Species: A Review

Salvia species find widespread application in food and pharmaceutical products owing to their large polyphenol content. The main polyphenols in Chinese Salvia species are phenolic acids and flavonoids, which exhibit anti-oxygenation, anti-ischemia-reperfusion injury, anti-thrombosis, anti-tumour, and other therapeutic effects. However, there are few peer-reviewed studies on polyphenols in Chinese Salvia species, especially flavonoids. This review is a systematic, comprehensive collation of available information on the biosynthesis, chemistry, and pharmacology of Chinese Salvia species. We believe that our study makes a significant contribution to the literature because this review provides a detailed literary resource on the currently available information on various polyphenolic components of Chinese Salvia species, including their bioactivities and structures. In addition, the study provides information that would encourage further investigation of this plant material as a natural resource with potential for a broad range of applications in various industries, such as the food and pharmaceutical industries.

The attenuation of HIV-1 Tat-induced neurotoxicity by Salvianic acid A and Danshen granule

The neurotoxicity of HIV-1 Tat protein contributes significantly to the pathogenesis of HAND, and hence the attractive therapeutic strategies focusing on Tat-induced neurotoxicity are warranted. Salvia miltiorrhiza have been known to antioxidant property and neuroprotective effects. The Danshen granule is the pharmaceutical dosage forms of Salvia miltiorrhiza and Salvianic acid A is an essential chemical constituent of Salvia miltiorrhiza. However, the protective effects of Salvianic acid A and Danshen granule on Tat-induced neurotoxicity remain unknown. Here, we found that Salvianic acid A and Danshen granule remarkable inhibited Tat-induced cell death, blocked LDH release and rescued dendritic spine loss. Furthermore, Salvianic acid A and Danshen granule significantly ameliorates Tat-induced intracellular ROS and MDA production, attenuates cell apoptosis. In addition, Salvianic acid A and Danshen granule pretreatment obviously increases antioxidant enzymatic activity of CAT, SOD and GSH-Px and inhibits apoptotic pathways. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that Salvianic acid A and Danshen granule provides substantial neuroprotection against Tat-induced neurotoxicity, which may be new therapeutic agent in Tat induced HAND or neurodegenerative diseases.

Therapeutic Potential of Salviae Miltiorrhizae Radix et Rhizoma against Human Diseases Based on Activation of Nrf2-Mediated Antioxidant Defense System: Bioactive Constituents and Mechanism of Action

Oxidative stress plays a central role in the pathogenesis of many human diseases. The nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is a key transcription factor regulating the intracellular antioxidant response and is an emerging target for the prevention and therapy of oxidative stress-related diseases. Salviae Miltiorrhizae Radix et Rhizoma (SMRR) is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and is commonly used for the therapy of cardiac cerebral diseases. Cumulative evidences indicated that the extract of SMRR and its constituents, represented by lipophilic diterpenoid quinones and hydrophilic phenolic acids, were capable of activating Nrf2 and inhibiting oxidative stress. These bioactive constituents demonstrated a therapeutic potential against human diseases, exemplified by cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, diabetes, nephropathy, and inflammation, based on the induction of Nrf2-mediated antioxidant response and the inhibition of oxidative stress. In the present review, we introduced the SMRR and Nrf2 signaling pathway, summarized the constituents with an Nrf2-inducing effect isolated from SMRR, and discussed the molecular mechanism and pharmacological functions of the SMRR extract and its constituents.

Panax ginseng Polysaccharide Protected H9c2 Cardiomyocyte From Hypoxia/Reoxygenation Injury Through Regulating Mitochondrial Metabolism and RISK Pathway

Background and Objective: Ischemic heart disease (IHD) has been the major issue of public health. Panax ginseng (ginseng) has been verified as an effective traditional Chinese medicines and exerted cardioprotective effect. This study aimed to investigate the polysaccharide fraction of ginseng on hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) injury in cardiomyocytes and the underlying mechanisms.

Methods: Ginseng was extracted by ethanol and fractionated by high-speed counter current chromatography (HSCCC) and column separation. The cardioprotective effect was evaluated in H9c2 cardiomyocytes underwent H/R treatment. The cell viability, apoptosis and mitochondrial respiration were examined.

Results: An acid polysaccharides fraction of ginseng (AP1) was identified the most effective fraction in protecting cardiomyocytes from H/R injury. AP1 restored the mitochondrial function by maintaining mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), blocking the release of cytochrome C, and increasing the ATP generation and oxygen consumption rate (OCR) of cardiomyocytes. Meanwhile, AP1 induced the expression of glucocorticoid receptor (GR) and estrogen receptor (ER) which further activated reperfusion injury salvage kinase (RISK) pathway. Finally, AP1 increased nitric oxide (NO) production and regulated endothelial function by increasing endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) expression and decreasing inducible NOS (iNOS) expression in H/R injury.

Conclusion: The results suggested that AP1 exerted a protective effect in myocardial H/R injury mainly through maintaining myocardial mitochondrial function, thereby inhibiting myocardial H/R caused apoptosis and increasing the expressions of GR and ER, which in turn mediated the activation of RISK pathway and eNOS-dependent mechanism to resist the reperfusion injury.

Polyphenols and Oxidative Stress in Atherosclerosis-Related Ischemic Heart Disease and Stroke

Good nutrition could maintain health and life. Polyphenols are common nutrient mainly derived from fruits, vegetables, tea, coffee, cocoa, mushrooms, beverages, and traditional medicinal herbs. They are potential substances against oxidative-related diseases, for example, cardiovascular disease, specifically, atherosclerosis-related ischemic heart disease and stroke, which are health and economic problems recognized worldwide. In this study, we reviewed the risk factors for atherosclerosis, including hypertension, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, obesity, and cigarette smoking as well as the antioxidative activity of polyphenols, which could prevent the pathology of atherosclerosis, including endothelial dysfunction, low-density lipoprotein oxidation, vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation, inflammatory process by monocytes, macrophages or T lymphocytes, and platelet aggregation. The strong radical-scavenging properties of polyphenols would exhibit antioxidative and anti-inflammation effects. Polyphenols reduce ROS production by inhibiting oxidases, reducing the production of superoxide, inhibiting OxLDL formation, suppressing VSMC proliferation and migration, reducing platelet aggregation, and improving mitochondrial oxidative stress. Polyphenol consumption also inhibits the development of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, and obesity. Despite the numerous in vivo and in vitro studies, more advanced clinical trials are necessary to confirm the efficacy of polyphenols in the treatment of atherosclerosis-related vascular diseases.

Salvia (Sage): A Review of its Potential Cognitive-Enhancing and Protective Effects

Genus Salvia, commonly known as sage, is the largest genus in the Lamiaceae family. It comprises many species traditionally used as brain-enhancing tonics. In vitro and animal studies have confirmed that several Salvia species contain a large array of active compounds that may enhance cognitive activity and protect against neurodegenerative disease. In this review, the active constituents in plants belonging to the genus Salvia are summarised, and their influence on pharmacodynamics pertinent to cognitive activity are detailed. In particular, the effects of plants belonging to the genus Salvia and their constituents on cognitive skills including memory, attention and learning are detailed. Their potential effects in dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, are also examined. Completed human trials are summarised, and factors influencing the potency of Salvia plants are covered. Finally, directions for future research are proposed to enhance our understanding of the potential health benefits of Salvia plants.

Blocking beta 2-adrenergic receptor inhibits dendrite ramification in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease

Dendrite ramification affects synaptic strength and plays a crucial role in memory. Previous studies revealed a correlation between beta 2-adrenergic receptor dysfunction and Alzheimer's disease (AD), although the mechanism involved is still poorly understood. The current study investigated the potential effect of the selective β₂-adrenergic receptor antagonist, ICI 118551 (ICI), on Aβ deposits and AD-related cognitive impairment. Morris water maze test results demonstrated that the performance of AD-transgenic (TG) mice treated with ICI (AD-TG/ICI) was significantly poorer compared with NaCl-treated AD-TG mice (AD-TG/NaCl), suggesting that β₂-adrenergic receptor blockage by ICI might reduce the learning and memory abilities of mice. Golgi staining and immunohistochemical staining revealed that blockage of the β₂-adrenergic receptor by ICI treatment decreased the number of dendritic branches, and ICI treatment in AD-TG mice decreased the expression of hippocampal synaptophysin and synapsin 1. Western blot assay results showed that the blockage of β₂-adrenergic receptor increased amyloid-β accumulation by downregulating hippocampal α-secretase activity and increasing the phosphorylation of amyloid precursor protein. These findings suggest that blocking the β₂-adrenergic receptor inhibits dendrite ramification of hippocampal neurons in a mouse model of AD.