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Lu PH, Lai CC, Chiu LY, Wang JY, Lu PH. Comparative efficacy of Chinese herbal medicines for dialysis patients with uremic pruritus: A systematic review and network meta-analysis. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1064926. [PMID: 36733503 PMCID: PMC9886678 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1064926] [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: 10/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Uremic pruritus is common in dialysis patients and reduces their quality of life. Chinese herbal medicine has been effective in patients with this condition. Methods: We conducted a random-effects network meta-analysis to compare the efficacies of different Chinese herbal medicine treatments for uremic pruritus. Outcome measures including the overall effective rates, visual analog scale scores, C-reactive protein levels, and adverse drug reactions were analyzed. Results: The network meta-analysis retrieved 25 randomized controlled trials. Compared with conventional treatments alone, combination treatments with Xiao-Yang-Ke-Li was the most effective intervention in decreasing visual analog scale scores (mean difference -2.98, 95% mean difference -5.05 to -0.91) and levels of C-reactive protein (mean difference -5.01, 95% mean difference -7.27 to -2.75). Conventional treatment combined with Si-Wu Tang was superior to other therapeutic combinations when overall effective rates were determined. The best visual analog scale scores and overall effective rates were achieved by adjunctive treatment with the Touxie-Jiedu-Zhiyang decoction followed by uremic clearance granules; these treatments were the most beneficial for uremic pruritis. Conclusion: Our network meta-analysis provided the relative efficacies of different adjunctive Chinese herbal formulas. Adjunctive treatment with the Touxie-Jiedu-Zhiyang decoction was the best treatment for improving overall effective rates and reducing visual analog scores of uremic pruritus in dialysis patients. Systematic Review Registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=357656; Identifier: CRD42022357656.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping-Hsun Lu
- Department of Chinese Medicine, Taipei Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, New Taipei City, Taiwan,School of Post-Baccalaureate Chinese Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Cheng Lai
- Department of Medical Education, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ling-Ya Chiu
- Department of Medicine, MacKay Medical College, New Taipei City, Taiwan,Department of Medical Research, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Jen-Yu Wang
- Department of Medicine, MacKay Medical College, New Taipei City, Taiwan,Department of Dermatology, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Po-Hsuan Lu
- Department of Medicine, MacKay Medical College, New Taipei City, Taiwan,Department of Dermatology, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan,*Correspondence: Po-Hsuan Lu,
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Efficacy and Safety of Ganduqing Granules in Treating the Common Cold: A Multicenter, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2022; 2022:5105503. [PMID: 35722165 PMCID: PMC9203204 DOI: 10.1155/2022/5105503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2021] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Background There is no clear evidence-based medicine that points to the most effective drug treatments for the common cold. In view of its ability to relieve symptoms and shorten the disease course, as well as its minimal side effects, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been widely used to treat the common cold. However, there is a lack of strong evidence to support the clinical efficacy of TCM. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Ganduqing granules in the treatment of the common cold based on the network pharmacology analysis. Methods In this multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 60 eligible subjects will be randomly assigned to either the intervention group or the placebo group. The intervention group will be treated with Ganduqing granules, while the placebo group will be treated with placebo. After 5 days of intervention, the efficacy and safety of Ganduqing granules in the treatment of the common cold will be observed. The primary outcome is the time to clearance of all symptoms. The secondary outcomes included the levels of IL-6, TNF-α, SOD, and MDA in the peripheral blood, time to disappearance of primary symptoms and secondary symptoms, clinical symptom remission rate, and change in TCM syndrome score. Results Sixty participants completed the study. Ganduqing granules showed a greater effect on the time to clearance of all symptoms (P < 0.0001), nasal discharge (P=0.0124), fatigue and lack of strength (P=0.0138), dryness of the pharynx (P < 0.0001), pharyngalgia or dysphagia (P < 0.0001), and expectoration (P < 0.0431) compared with the placebo group. Participants in the intervention group had a greater decrease of IL-6 levels compared with the placebo group (P < 0.007); similar results were observed for the SOD (P < 0.033). However, the change in TNF-α and MDA levels in the intervention group was not significantly different from the placebo group. In addition, participants in the intervention group had a greater decrease of TCM syndrome score compared with the placebo group (P < 0.040). Conclusion Ganduqing granules could improve common cold symptoms, shorten the disease course, attenuated inflammation and oxidative stress, and provided objective evidence for the efficacy and safety of a Chinese herbal medicine in treating the common cold.
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Mohd Kasim VNK, Noble SM, Liew KY, Tan JW, Israf DA, Tham CL. Management of Atopic Dermatitis Via Oral and Topical Administration of Herbs in Murine Model: A Systematic Review. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:785782. [PMID: 35685636 PMCID: PMC9171034 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.785782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the past few decades, complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) using herbs, or their active constituents have garnered substantial attention in the management of a chronic and relapsing inflammatory skin disorder called atopic dermatitis (AD), particularly in attenuating disease recurrence and maintaining long-term remission. In Eastern Asian countries including China, Korea and Taiwan, herbal medicine available in both topical and oral preparation plays a significant role in treating skin diseases like AD as they possibly confer high anti-inflammatory properties and immunomodulatory functions. Conventional murine models of AD have been employed in drug discovery to provide scientific evidence for conclusive and specific pharmacological effects elicited by the use of traditional herbs and their active constituents. Coupled with the goal to develop safe and effective novel therapeutic agents for AD, this systematic review consists of a summary of 103 articles on both orally and topically administered herbs and their active constituents in the murine model, whereby articles were screened and selected via a specialized framework known as PICO (Population, Intervention, Comparator and Outcome). The objectives of this review paper were to identify the efficacy of oral and topical administered herbs along with their active constituents in alleviating AD and the underlying mechanism of actions, as well as the animal models and choice of inducer agents used in these studies. The main outcome on the efficacy of the majority of the herbs and their active constituents illustrated suppression of Th2 response as well as improvements in the severity of AD lesions, suppression of Immunoglobulin E (IgE) concentration and mast cell infiltration. The majority of these studies used BALB/c mice followed by NC/Nga mice (commonly used gender–male; commonly used age group – 6–8 weeks). The most used agent in inducing AD was 2, 4-Dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB), and the average induction period for both oral and topical administered herbs and their active constituents in AD experiments lasted between 3 and 4 weeks. In light of these findings, this review paper could potentially assist researchers in exploring the potential candidate herbs and their active constituents using murine model for the amelioration of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivi Nur Khalieda Mohd Kasim
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Malaysia
| | | | - Kong Yen Liew
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Malaysia
| | - Ji Wei Tan
- School of Science, Monash University Malaysia, Subang Jaya, Malaysia
| | - Daud Ahmad Israf
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Malaysia
| | - Chau Ling Tham
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Malaysia
- *Correspondence: Chau Ling Tham,
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Ko CY, Chao J, Chen PY, Su SY, Maeda T, Lin CY, Chiang HC, Huang SS. Ethnobotanical Survey on Skin Whitening Prescriptions of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Taiwan. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:736370. [PMID: 34916932 PMCID: PMC8670535 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.736370] [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: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The increasing interest and demand for skin whitening products globally, particularly in Asia, have necessitated rapid advances in research on skin whitening products used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Herein, we investigated 74 skin whitening prescriptions sold in TCM pharmacies in Taiwan. Commonly used medicinal materials were defined as those with a relative frequency of citation (RFC) > 0.2 and their characteristics were evaluated. Correlation analysis of commonly used medicinal materials was carried out to identify the core component of the medicinal materials. Of the purchased 74 skin whitening prescriptions, 36 were oral prescriptions, 37 were external prescriptions, and one prescription could be used as an oral or external prescription. After analysis, 90 traditional Chinese medicinal materials were obtained. The Apiaceae (10%; 13%) and Leguminosae (9%; 11%) were the main sources of oral and external medicinal materials, respectively. Oral skin whitening prescriptions were found to be mostly warm (46%) and sweet (53%), while external skin whitening prescriptions included cold (43%) and bitter (29%) medicinal materials. Additionally, mainly tonifying and replenishing effects of the materials were noted. Pharmacological analysis indicated that these medicinal materials may promote wound healing, treat inflammatory skin diseases, or anti-hyperpigmentation. According to the Spearman correlation analysis on interactions among medicinal materials with an RFC > 0.2 in the oral skin whitening prescriptions, Paeonia lactiflora Pall. (white) and Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz. showed the highest correlation (confidence score = 0.93), followed by Ziziphus jujuba Mill. (red) and Astragalus propinquus Schischkin (confidence score = 0.91). Seven medicinal materials in external skin whitening prescriptions with an RFC > 0.2, were classified as Taiwan qī bái sàn (an herbal preparation), including Angelica dahurica (Hoffm.) Benth. & Hook. f. ex Franch. & Sav., Wolfiporia extensa (Peck) Ginns, Bletilla striata (Thunb.) Rchb. f., Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz., Ampelopsis japonica (Thunb.) Makino, Paeonia lactiflora Pall. (white), and Bombyx mori Linnaeus. Skin whitening prescriptions included multiple traditional Chinese medicinal materials. Despite the long history of use, there is a lack of studies concerning skin whitening products, possibly due to the complex composition of traditional Chinese medicine. Further studies are required to assess the efficacy and safety of these traditional Chinese medicinal materials for inclusion in effective, safe, and functional pharmacological products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chien-Yu Ko
- School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Jung Chao
- Chinese Medicine Research Center, Department of Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences and Chinese Medicine Resources, Master Program for Food and Drug Safety, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Yu Chen
- Department of Cosmeceutics, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Shan-Yu Su
- Department of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.,School of Post-Baccalaureate Chinese Medicine, College of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Tomoji Maeda
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nihon Pharmaceutical University, Saitama, Japan.,Tsuzuki Institute for Traditional Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chin-Yu Lin
- Tsuzuki Institute for Traditional Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.,Institute of New Drug Development, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Hung-Che Chiang
- School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.,Tsuzuki Institute for Traditional Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Shyh-Shyun Huang
- School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.,Tsuzuki Institute for Traditional Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.,Department of Food Nutrition and Health Biotechnology, Asia University, Taichung, Taiwan
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Gong G, Zheng Y, Yang Y, Sui Y, Wen Z. Pharmaceutical Values of Calycosin: One Type of Flavonoid Isolated from Astragalus. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2021; 2021:9952578. [PMID: 34035829 PMCID: PMC8121564 DOI: 10.1155/2021/9952578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Astragalus is a popular Materia Medica in China, and it could be applied in the treatment of various diseases. It contains a variety of chemically active ingredients, such as saponins, flavonoids, and polysaccharides. Plant-derived bioactive chemicals are considered natural, safe, and beneficial. Among the infinite plant-identified and isolated molecules, flavonoids have been reported to have positive effects on human health. Calycosin is the most important active flavonoid substance identified predominantly within this medicinal plant. In recent years, calycosin has been reported to have anticancer, antioxidative, immune-modulatory, and estrogenic-like properties. This review collected recent relevant literatures on calycosin and summarized its potential pharmaceutical properties and working mechanism involved, which provided solid basis for future clinical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guowei Gong
- Department of Bioengineering, Zunyi Medical University, Zhuhai Campus, Zhuhai, Guangdong 519041, China
| | - Yuzhong Zheng
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Functional Substances in Medicinal Edible Resources and Healthcare Products, School of Life Sciences and Food Engineering, Hanshan Normal University, Chaozhou, Guangdong 521041, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Department of Bioengineering, Zunyi Medical University, Zhuhai Campus, Zhuhai, Guangdong 519041, China
| | - Yixuan Sui
- Department of Neuroscience, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Zhen Wen
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
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Jo SY, Kim MH, Lee H, Lee SH, Yang WM. Ameliorative and Synergic Effects of Derma-H, a New Herbal Formula, on Allergic Contact Dermatitis. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:1019. [PMID: 32760271 PMCID: PMC7371928 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.01019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) is characterized by itching, skin inflammation, and allergic responses caused by release of immunoglobulin E and T helper 2-specific cytokines. The aim of this study is to investigate the ameliorative and synergic effects of herbal formula, Derma-H, containing Astragalus membranaceus Fisch. ex Bunge (AM) and Nepeta tenuifolia Benth (NT) which have been used as traditional medicinal herbs for the cure of dryness, edema, and pruritus. 2,4-Dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB) was applied for ACD induction. AM, NT, and a mixture of AM and NT was topically applied to skin lesions for 11 days. Dermatitis score and number of scratches were significantly diminished in AM, NT, and AM + NT (Derma-H)-treated groups. Especially, Derma-H was more effective than single treatment of AM and NT on skin hyperplasia and mast cell infiltration. Also, NGF expression decreased by NT and a mixture of AM and NT. Additionally, series of TrkA, Raf-1, MEK, and ERK were significantly inhibited by topical AM and NT application. Those findings suggested AM and NT treatment has a synergic effect on DNCB-induced ACD in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si Yeon Jo
- Department of Convergence Korean Medical Science, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Mi Hye Kim
- Department of Convergence Korean Medical Science, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Haesu Lee
- Department of Convergence Korean Medical Science, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Sun Haeng Lee
- Department of Clinical Korean Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Woong Mo Yang
- Department of Convergence Korean Medical Science, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, South Korea
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Protective Effect of a Mixture of Astragalus membranaceus and Lithospermum erythrorhizon Extract against Hepatic Steatosis in High Fat Diet-Induced Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Mice. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2020; 2020:8370698. [PMID: 32256659 PMCID: PMC7106914 DOI: 10.1155/2020/8370698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2019] [Revised: 01/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The present study aimed to evaluate the potential synergistic and protective effects of ALM16, a mixture of Astragalus membranaceus (AM) and Lithospermum erythrorhizon (LE) extract in a ratio of 7 : 3, against hepatic steatosis in high fat diet (HFD)-induced nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) mice. Forty-eight mice were randomly divided into eight groups and orally administered daily for 6 weeks with a normal diet (ND) or high fat diet alone (HFD), HFD with AM (HFD + 100 mg/kg AM extract), HFD with LE (HFD + 100 mg/kg LE extract), HFD with ALM16 (HFD + 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg ALM16), or HFD with MT (HFD + 100 mg/kg Milk thistle extract) as a positive control. ALM16 significantly decreased the body and liver weight, serum and hepatic lipid profiles, including triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL), and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL), and serum glucose levels, compared to the HFD group. Moreover, ALM16 significantly ameliorated the HFD-induced increased hepatic injury markers, including aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT)-1. Furthermore, as compared to the mice fed HFD alone, ALM16 increased the levels of phosphorylated AMP-activated protein kinase (p-AMPK) and acetyl-CoA carboxylase (p-ACC), thereby upregulating the expression of carnitine palmitoyltransferase (CPT)-1 and downregulating the expression of sterol regulatory element-binding protein (SREBP)-1c and fatty acid synthase (FAS). These results demonstrated that ALM16 markedly inhibited HFD-induced hepatic steatosis in NAFLD mice by modulating AMPK and ACC signaling pathways, and may be more effective than the single extracts of AM or LE.
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Bing Z, Jin-Tao D, Feng L, Ba L, Ya-Feng L, Shi-Xi L. Effect of Astragalus membranaceus in Ovalbumin-Induced Allergic Rhinitis Mouse Model. Am J Rhinol Allergy 2019; 33:420-432. [PMID: 30945558 DOI: 10.1177/1945892419839259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Background Astragalus membranaceus (AM), a traditional Chinese medicine, has been used to treat allergic diseases, but the mechanism for treating allergic rhinitis (AR) remains unclear. Objective The purpose of this study was to look at the anti-inflammatory effect of AM on AR and the mechanism of anti-allergy. Methods The mouse model of AR was induced by ovalbumin. Allergic symptoms, number of eosinophils in nasal mucosa, and levels of inflammatory cells in nasal lavage fluid were analyzed. We explored the serum immunoglobulin E (IgE), interleukin-4 (IL-4), IL-5, IL-13, interferon-γ (IFN-γ), and IL-10. Besides, the relative mRNA of IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13 was also detected in nasal mucosa tissue. The proportion of CD4+ CD25+ Foxp3+ T cells in the spleen and nasal lymphoid tissue were analyzed. The mRNA levels of nuclear factor-kappa B p65 (NF-κB p65) and inhibitory kappa B alpha (IκBα), as well as NF-κB p65 DNA binding activity, were tested. We also measured the protein levels of NF-κB p65 and p-NF-κB p65 in nasal mucosa. Results AM could reduce the number of eosinophils in the nasal mucosa and decrease the levels of inflammatory cells in nasal lavage fluid. The serum IgE, IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13 were also decreased, while levels of IFN-γ and IL-10 were increased. The relative mRNA of IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13 was decreased by AM. AM increased the proportion of CD4+ CD25+ Foxp3+ T cells in the spleen and nasal lymphoid tissue. In addition, AM could reduce the activity of NF-kB by inhibiting the mRNA expression and DNA binding activity of NF-κB p65. However, AM had no significant effect on mRNA of IκBα. Above all, AM could reduce the p-NF-κB p65 protein expression of nasal mucosa. Conclusions AM could reduce the secretion of inflammatory cytokines by increasing the level of CD4+ CD25+ Foxp3+ T cells and inhibiting the activation of the NF-κB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhong Bing
- 1 Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, West China Hospital, West China Medical School, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Du Jin-Tao
- 1 Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, West China Hospital, West China Medical School, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Liu Feng
- 1 Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, West China Hospital, West China Medical School, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Luo Ba
- 2 Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, People's Hospital of Tibet Autonomous Region, Lhasa, China
| | - Liu Ya-Feng
- 1 Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, West China Hospital, West China Medical School, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Liu Shi-Xi
- 1 Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, West China Hospital, West China Medical School, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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Gong AGW, Duan R, Wang HY, Kong XP, Dong TTX, Tsim KWK, Chan K. Evaluation of the Pharmaceutical Properties and Value of Astragali Radix. MEDICINES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2018; 5:E46. [PMID: 29883402 PMCID: PMC6023478 DOI: 10.3390/medicines5020046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2018] [Revised: 05/03/2018] [Accepted: 05/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Astragali Radix (AR), a Chinese materia medica (CMM) known as Huangqi, is an important medicine prescribed in herbal composite formulae (Fufang) by Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practitioners for thousands of years. According to the literature, AR is suggested for patients suffering from “Qi”- and “Blood”-deficiencies, and its clinical effects are reported to be related to anti-cancer cell proliferation, anti-oxidation, relief of complications in cardiovascular diseases, etc. The underlying cell signaling pathways involved in the regulation of these various diseases are presented here to support the mechanisms of action of AR. There are two botanical sources recorded in China Pharmacopoeia (CP, 2015): Astragalus membranaceus (Fisch.) Bge. Var. mongohlicus, (Bge.) Hsiao, and Astragalus membranaceus (Fisch.) Bge. (Fam. Leguminosae), whose extracts of dried roots are processed via homogenization-assisted negative pressure cavitation extraction. Geographic factors and extraction methods have impacts on the pharmaceutical and chemical profiles of AR. Therefore, the levels of the major bioactive constituents of AR, including polysaccharides, saponins, and flavonoids, may not be consistent in different batches of extract, and the pharmaceutical efficacy of these bioactive ingredients may vary depending on the source. Therefore, the present review mainly focuses on the consistency of the available sources of AR and extracts and on the investigation of the biological functions and mechanisms of action of AR and of its major bioactive constituents. Furthermore, it will also include a discussion of the most popular AR composite formulae to further elucidate their chemical and biological profiles and understand the pharmaceutical value of AR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy G W Gong
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Edible and Medicinal Bioresources, SRI, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518057, China.
- Division of Life Science, Center for Chinese Medicine, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong 100044, China.
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zunyi Medical University, Zhuhai Campus, Zhuhai 519041, China.
| | - Ran Duan
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Edible and Medicinal Bioresources, SRI, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518057, China.
- Division of Life Science, Center for Chinese Medicine, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong 100044, China.
| | - Huai Y Wang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Edible and Medicinal Bioresources, SRI, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518057, China.
- Division of Life Science, Center for Chinese Medicine, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong 100044, China.
| | - Xiang P Kong
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Edible and Medicinal Bioresources, SRI, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518057, China.
- Division of Life Science, Center for Chinese Medicine, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong 100044, China.
| | - Tina T X Dong
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Edible and Medicinal Bioresources, SRI, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518057, China.
- Division of Life Science, Center for Chinese Medicine, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong 100044, China.
| | - Karl W K Tsim
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Edible and Medicinal Bioresources, SRI, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518057, China.
- Division of Life Science, Center for Chinese Medicine, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong 100044, China.
| | - Kelvin Chan
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Edible and Medicinal Bioresources, SRI, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518057, China.
- School of Pharmacy & Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool L3 3 AF, UK.
- National Institute of Complementary Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, NSW 2560, Australia.
- Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia.
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Zhou R, Chen H, Chen J, Chen X, Wen Y, Xu L. Extract from Astragalus membranaceus inhibit breast cancer cells proliferation via PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. BMC COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2018. [PMID: 29523109 PMCID: PMC5845298 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-018-2148-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Background Astragalus membranaceus (AM) is a commonly used herb in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), which has been used as an essential tonic to treat various diseases for more than 2000 years. In this study, we aimed to investigate the biological effects of extract from AM on breast cancer cell and its mechanism. Methods To prepare the extract, dried AM were ground and extracted with water extraction-ethanol supernatant method. Then the main isoflavones in the extract was detect by HPLC analysis. Furthermore, the anti-proliferative activity of AM extract was examined by MTT assay and morphological observation. Cell apoptosis was evaluated with flow cytometric analysis. The expressions of total and phosphorylated PI3K, GS3Kβ, Akt and mTOR were determined by western blot analysis. Results HPLC analysis demonstrated that AM extract contained with four kinds of isoflavones, campanulin, ononin, calycosin and formononetin. The MTT test and morphological observation indicated that cells proliferation of MCF-7, SK-BR-3 and MDA-MB-231were inhibited by AM extract in a dose dependent manner. Furthermore, flow cytometric analysis displayed that after treated with 25 μg/ml and 50 μg/ml AM extract, apoptosis of breast cancer cells was significantly increased as compared with DMSO and blank control group (all p < 0.05). Western blot analysis found that the level of p-PI3K, p-GS3Kβ, p-Akt, and p-mTOR were significantly decreased, but the level of total-mTOR was observably increased as compared with DMSO control group. Conclusions Taken together, the inhibited cell proliferation and induced cell apoptosis effect of AM extract via PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway confirmed the anti-tumor potential of AM. Therefore, our findings provide a new insight into anti-cancer effect of AM extract as a promising agent in breast cancer treatment. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12906-018-2148-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Effects of Angelica Extract on Schwann Cell Proliferation and Expressions of Related Proteins. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2017; 2017:6358392. [PMID: 28804503 PMCID: PMC5540469 DOI: 10.1155/2017/6358392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2017] [Accepted: 05/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The present study investigated the effects of Angelica extract (AE) on Schwann cell proliferation and expressions of related proteins, including brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM), and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA). Proliferation activity and cell cycles of SCs were evaluated by MTT assay and flow cytometry methods, respectively, after 12 h treatment of AE at different concentrations (62.5, 125, 250, 1000, 2000, 4000, and 8000 mg/L). SCs were treated by 500, 1000, and 2000 mg/L AE for 24 h or 48 h; the related genes mRNA and proteins expressions in SCs were detected by quantitative real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit. At the concentration range of 125–2000 mg/L, the SC proliferation was induced by AE in a dose-dependent manner, especially 1000 and 2000 mg/L; cells in drug-treated groups showed the most increase. Cells counts were ascended significantly in (G2/M + S) phase compared to control group. BDNF, NCAM, and PCNA protein expressions significantly increased at drug-treated groups. Relative genes mRNA expressions levels were also significantly higher compared to control group. The results indicated that AE facilitated SC proliferation and related genes and proteins expressions, which provided a basic guideline for nerve injury repair in clinic.
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Choi YY, Kim MH, Ahn KS, Um JY, Lee SG, Yang WM. Immunomodulatory effects of Pseudostellaria heterophylla (Miquel) Pax on regulation of Th1/Th2 levels in mice with atopic dermatitis. Mol Med Rep 2016; 15:649-656. [PMID: 28035398 PMCID: PMC5364855 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2016.6093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2015] [Accepted: 11/17/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Pseudostellaria heterophylla (PH) has various pharmacological effects that include immunologic enhancement and anti-oxidation. However, it remains unclear whether PH exerts beneficial effects in dermatological diseases. The present study examined the effects of PH on a 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB)-induced atopic dermatitis (AD) mouse model and elucidated its underlying mechanism of action. PH extract (1 and 100 mg/ml) was applied topically to DNCB-treated dorsal skin of mice every day for 11 days. The immunomodulatory effects of PH were evaluated by measuring skin thickness, mast cell infiltration, serum levels of immunoglobulin E (IgE), and mRNA expression levels of T helper (h)1/Th2 and pro-inflammatory cytokines in dorsal skin. In addition, cluster of differentiation (CD)4+ T cells were detected in dorsal skin by immunohistochemistry. Topical application of PH significantly reduced the thickness of dermis, epidermis and serum IgE production compared with the DNCB group. PH treatment inhibited infiltration of inflammatory cells, including mast cells and CD4+ T cells, and suppressed the mRNA expression levels of cytokines (interferon-γ, interleukin-4, −6, −8 and −1β, and tumor necrosis factor-α) associated with the immune response. Furthermore, PH treatment significantly downregulated the protein expression levels of nuclear factor-κB, phosphorylated inhibitor of κBα and mitogen-activated protein kinases. The results suggested that PH may be a potential therapeutic strategy for the treatment of AD via the modulation of Th1 and Th2 levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- You Yeon Choi
- Department of Convergence Korean Medical Science, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Mi Hye Kim
- Department of Convergence Korean Medical Science, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwang Seok Ahn
- Department of Korean Pathology, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Young Um
- Department of Korean Pharmacology, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Seok-Geun Lee
- Cancer Preventive Material Development Research Center, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Woong Mo Yang
- Department of Convergence Korean Medical Science, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
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Champakaew D, Junkum A, Chaithong U, Jitpakdi A, Riyong D, Wannasan A, Intirach J, Muangmoon R, Chansang A, Tuetun B, Pitasawat B. Assessment of Angelica sinensis (Oliv.) Diels as a repellent for personal protection against mosquitoes under laboratory and field conditions in northern Thailand. Parasit Vectors 2016; 9:373. [PMID: 27357395 PMCID: PMC4928323 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-016-1650-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2016] [Accepted: 06/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Angelica sinensis (Oliv.) hexane extract (AHE) has been reported as a proven and impressive repellent against laboratory-reared female Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. With the aim of promoting products of plant origin as a viable alternative to conventional synthetic substances, this study was designed to transform AHE-based repellents for exploitable commercial production by enhancing their efficacy and assessing their physical and biological stability as well as repellency against mosquitoes under laboratory and field conditions. Methods The chemical profile of AHE was analyzed by qualitative gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) technique. AHE was supplemented with vanillin, as a fixative, and then investigated for repellency and comparison to the standard synthetic repellent, DEET, under both laboratory and field conditions. Determination of physical and biological stability as a repellent was carried out after keeping AHE samples under varying temperatures and for different storage times. Results GC-MS analysis revealed that AHE contained at least 21 phytochemical compounds, constituting 95.74 % of the total content, with the major constituent of 3-N-butylphthalide (66.67 %). Ethanolic formulations of AHE and DEET showed improvement of repellency in a dose-dependent manner when vanillin was added in laboratory assessment. While 5–25 % AHE alone provided median complete-protection times of 2.0–6.5 h against Ae. aegypti, these times were increased to 4.0–8.5 h with a combination of AHE and 5 % vanillin (AHEv). Protection times against Ae. aegypti were extended from 2.25 to 7.25 h to 4.25–8.25 h when 5–25 % DEET was combined with 5 % vanillin (DEETv). In determining stability, all stored AHE samples exhibited similar characteristics such as liquid phases with aromatic odor comparable to those of fresh preparations. Furthermore, repellent activity of stored AHE samples lasted for at least six months, with varied efficacy (4.5–10.0 h) against Ae. aegypti. Field trials revealed strong repellency from both 25 % AHEv and 25 % DEETv, with complete protection (100 %) against a wide range of local mosquito populations. A total of 5,718 adult female mosquitoes, with the most predominant being Culex quinquefasciatus (41.47 %), Armigeres subalbatus (41.13 %), and Culex vishnui (10.53 %), was collected during field applications. No local skin reaction or other allergic responses was observed during both laboratory and field study periods. Conclusions Angelica sinensis proved to have not only impressive repellency against both laboratory Ae. aegypti and a wide range of natural mosquito populations, but also relative stability in physical and biological performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danita Champakaew
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
| | - Anuluck Junkum
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
| | - Udom Chaithong
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
| | - Atchariya Jitpakdi
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
| | - Doungrat Riyong
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
| | - Anchalee Wannasan
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
| | - Jitrawadee Intirach
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
| | - Roongtawan Muangmoon
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
| | - Arpaporn Chansang
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
| | - Benjawan Tuetun
- Department of Food Industry and Service, School of Culinary Arts, Suan Dusit Rajabhat University Lampang, Lampang, 52000, Thailand
| | - Benjawan Pitasawat
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand.
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