Andrographolide Derivative AL-1 Ameliorates Dextran Sodium Sulfate-Induced Murine Colitis by Inhibiting NF-κB and MAPK Signaling Pathways

Chemical Composition and Antibacterial and Antiulcerative Colitis Activities of Essential Oil from Pruni Semen

This study was sought to investigate the chemical composition and antibacterial and antiulcerative colitis (UC) effects of essential oil from Pruni Semen (PSEO). A GC-MS assay showed that the major compounds in PSEO were products of amygdalin hydrolysis, which possessed great antibacterial and anti-inflammatory potential. In vitro antibacterial experiments demonstrated that PSEO treatment inhibited activity of four kinds of intestinal pathogens probably by disrupting the cell wall. Further in vivo studies showed that PSEO administration significantly improved physiological indexes, attenuated histopathological characteristics, and inhibited proinflammatory cytokine production in dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced UC mice. Network pharmacology and molecular docking results predicted that PSEO might prevent UC via regulating the PI3K/AKT pathway. Western blotting and immunofluorescence assays were further conducted for verification, and the results evidenced that PSEO intervention significantly regulated the PI3K/AKT pathway and the expression of its downstream proteins in DSS-induced mice. PSEO might provide a new dietary strategy for UC treatment.

Flavonoid and Chalcone Scaffolds as Inhibitors of BACE1: Recent Updates

Flavonoids and chalcones are two major classes of chemical moieties that have a vast background of pharmacological activities. Chalcone is a subclass of flavonoids whose therapeutic potential has been implicated due to an array of bioactivities. A lot of research works have shown interest in investigating the neuroprotective effect of these molecules, and have revealed them to be much more potent molecules that can be used to treat neurodegenerative disorders. Beta-site APP cleaving enzyme (BACE1), which is majorly found in the brain, is one of the reasons behind the development of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Flavonoids and chalcones have proven clinical data that they inhibit the production of Aβ plaques that are involved in the progression of AD. In this article, we have provided a detailed chronological review of the research work on the BACE1 inhibiting potency of both flavonoids and chalcones. Almost all the flavonoids and chalcones mentioned in this article have shown very good in vitro and in vivo BACE1 inhibiting activity. The docking studies and the structural importance of some BACE1-inhibiting flavonoids, as well as chalcones, are also mentioned here.

The alleviating effect and mechanism of GLP-1 on ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative Colitis (UC) is a major type of chronic inflammatory bowel disease of the colonic mucosa and exhibits progressive morbidity. The incidence and prevalence of UC is increasing worldwide. The global burden of UC, which can substantially reduce quality of life, is clearly increasing. These data highlight the need for research into prevention of UC and innovations in health-care systems to manage this complex and costly disease. Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), a new antidiabetic drug, is used to treat Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM). Accumulating evidence suggests that GLP-1 has additional roles other than glucose-lowering effects. Despite the abundance of GLP-1 research, studies in UC have been less consistent, especially body weight; for example, body weight, colon length, colon injury score, intestinal microbiota, remain to be studied further. To date, the molecular mechanism of the protective effect of GLP-1 on UC remains obscure. The effect of GLP-1 was studied by using a dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitic mice and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) treated RAW264.7 cells (macrophage cell line) under in vivo and in vitro conditions, respectively. Our results indicate that GLP-1 significantly relieves ulcerative colitis as it represses the production of proinflammatory mediators. In addition, GLP-1 blocks the activation of the protein kinase B (AKT)/nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways. GLP-1 also alleviates DSS-induced injury to the intestinal mucosa and dysbiosis of gut microbiota. Altogether, GLP-1 has protection effect on ulcerative colitis. Thus, GLP-1 can be considered as a potential therapeutic candidate for the treatment of UC.

Terpenes: Modulating anti-inflammatory signaling in inflammatory bowel disease

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) are autoimmune diseases characterized by chronic intestinal inflammation. Considered a western disease, IBD incidence in newly developed countries is skyrocketing. Accordingly, global prevalence is steadily increasing. There are two major IBD phenotypes, ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD). UC manifests as uninterrupted inflammation localized in the colon and rectum. Meanwhile, CD presents as interrupted inflammation that can occur throughout the digestive tract. As a result, therapeutics have focused on anti-inflammatory approaches for its treatment. Unfortunately, only 50% of patients benefit from current Food and Drug Administration approved treatments, and all are associated with serious adverse effects. Thus, there is a need for safer and novel therapeutics to increase the efficacy in this population. One aspect that is critical in understanding IBD is how food and phytochemicals therein may be associated with modifying the pathogenesis of IBD. A variety of retrospective and prospective studies, and clinical trials have shown benefits of plant-rich diets on the prevention and symptomatic improvement of IBD. The Mediterranean diet is rich in vegetables, fruits, legumes, and herbs; and characterized by the abundance of anti-inflammatory phytochemicals. An understudied phytochemical class enriched in this diet is terpenes; isoprene-based molecules are widely available in Mediterranean herbs and citrus fruits. Various terpenes have been evaluated in different IBD models. However, some present contradictory or inconclusive results. Therefore, in this review we evaluated preclinical studies of terpenes modulating basic inflammatory signaling related to IBD.

Cod (Gadus) skin collagen peptide powder reduces inflammation, restores mucosal barrier function, and inhibits fibrosis in dextran sodium sulfate-induced colitis in mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease of unknown etiology. Cod (Gadus), a kind of herb from the Chinese herb. Traditionally, it has used to treat trauma, reduce swelling and relieve pain in order to exert its anti-inflammatory activity. Recent reports based on its hydrolyzed or enzymatic extracts have shown its anti-inflammatory, mucosal barrier protecting properties. However, its mechanism of improvement in ulcerative colitis is not clear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to explore the preventive and protective effect of cod skin collagen peptide powder (CP) on mice with UC and to explore the underlying mechanism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Mice with dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced UC were treated with CP by gavage, and the anti-inflammatory effects of CP were assessed using general physical, pro-inflammatory cytokine, histopathological, immunohistochemical, macrophage flow cytometry, and inflammatory signaling pathway assays.

RESULTS

CP ameliorates inflammation by upregulating mitogen-activated protein kinase phosphatase-1 (MKP-1) and thereby decreasing the phosphorylation levels of P38 and JNK. It also polarizes macrophages in the colon towards the M2 phenotype, which helps to reduce tissue damage and promotes colon repair. At the same time, CP also inhibits the development of fibrosis, one of the complications of UC, by upregulating ZO-1, Occludin, and downregulating α-SMA, Vimentin, Snail, and Slug.

CONCLUSION

In this study, we found CP reduced inflammation in mice with UC by inducing MKP-1 expression, which caused dephosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK). CP also restored mucosal barrier function and inhibited the development of fibrosis complicating UC in these mice. Taken together, these results suggested that CP improved the pathological manifestations of UC in mice, suggesting that it can play a biological role as a nutritional supplement for preventing and treating UC.

Modified Gegen Qinlian decoction ameliorates DSS-induced chronic colitis in mice by restoring the intestinal mucus barrier and inhibiting the activation of γδT17 cells

BACKGROUND

Current therapeutics for ulcerative colitis (UC) have limitations. Classical Formula Gegen Qinlian decoction (GQD) is derived from Shang Han Lun and has a long history of treating gastrointestinal diseases such as diarrhea and UC. Nevertheless, the exact mechanism of it needs to be further clarified.

PURPOSE

We aimed to investigate the treatment effects of modified GQD (MGQD) on dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced chronic colitis in mice and conduct further exploration of its underlying mechanisms.

METHODS

The protective effect of MGQD was estimated in a DSS-induced chronic colitis mouse model. Model evaluation included body weight, disease activity index (DAI) score, colon length and histopathology. Alcian Blue/Phosphoric Acid Schiff (AB/PAS) staining, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), immunofluorescence and real time‒PCR (RT-PCR) were used to assess goblet cell function. ELISA, flow cytometry and immunofluorescence were applied to estimate the immunoinflammatory status. Western blot was performed to test the protein expression levels of relevant pathways and related receptors. All experiments were conducted in duplicate.

RESULTS

MGQD alleviated DSS‑induced chronic colitis symptoms in mice, protected goblet cell function and restored the intestinal mucus barrier. Furthermore, MGQD efficiently suppressed the abnormal immune inflammatory response and the activate of γδT17 cells and NLRP3 inflammasome.

CONCLUSION

The mechanisms by which MGQD protects against DSS-induced chronic colitis may involve restoring goblet cell function, repairing the intestinal mucus barrier, and modulating the immune inflammatory response. More importantly, MGQD inhibited NLRP3 inflammasome-associated signaling pathway activation, which consequently reduced the activation of γδT17 cells.

Cayratia japonica Prevents Ulcerative Colitis by Promoting M2 Macrophage Polarization through Blocking the TLR4/MAPK/NF-κB Pathway

Background and Aims

Several components of Cayratia japonica (CJ) such as rutin and quercetin have shown anti-inflammatory effect, yet its function in ulcerative colitis (UC) remains to be clarified. This study focuses on the modulatory effect of CJ on UC as well as molecular mechanism by which CJ regulates macrophage polarization in UC.

Methods

The targets related to CJ components and UC were, respectively, obtained through in silico analysis, and their intersection targets were selected for pathway enrichment analysis. RAW264.7 cells were stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to induce M1 macrophages. Expression of the macrophage polarization M1 marker CD11b and M2 marker CD206 was measured to determine the phenotype of macrophages. The mouse model was treated with dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) to induce UC to observe the effects of CJ on UC in vivo.

Results

The in silico analysis suggested the crucial significance of TLR4 and its downstream MAPK/NF-κB pathways in the modulatory effect of CJ on UC. Furthermore, experimental data revealed that CJ could promote M2 macrophage polarization but alleviate immune inflammation and reduce colon damage in DSS-evoked UC model. Additionally, CJ can inhibit the expression of TLR4/MAPK/NF-κB signaling pathway to enhance the M2-like polarization.

Conclusion

Hence, CJ may exert anti-inflammatory effects and an inhibitory role in UC by inhibiting the TLR4/MAPK/NF-κB pathway and subsequent M1-like macrophage polarization.

Andrographolide, a natural anti-inflammatory agent: An Update

Botanicals have attracted much attention in the field of anti-inflammatory due to their good pharmacological activity and efficacy. Andrographis paniculata is a natural plant ingredient that is widely used around the world. Andrographolide is the main active ingredient derived from Andrographis paniculata, which has a good effect on the treatment of inflammatory diseases. This article reviews the application, anti-inflammatory mechanism and molecular targets of andrographolide in different inflammatory diseases, including respiratory, digestive, immune, nervous, cardiovascular, skeletal, and tumor system diseases. And describe its toxicity and explain its safety. Studies have shown that andrographolide can be used to treat inflammatory lesions of various systemic diseases. In particular, it acts on many inflammation-related signalling pathways. The future direction of andrographolide research is also introduced, as is the recent research that indicates its potential clinical application as an anti-inflammatory agent.

Traditional Chinese medicine prescription Shenling BaiZhu powder to treat ulcerative colitis: Clinical evidence and potential mechanisms

Ulcerative colitis (UC), characterized by syndromes including abdominal pain, bloody stool, diarrhea, weight loss, and repeated relapse, is a non-specific inflammatory intestinal disease. In recent years, with the changing dietary habits in China, the incidence of UC has shown an upward trend. UC belongs to the category of recorded as “diarrhea,” “chronic dysentery,” and “hematochezia” in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), and Shenling BaiZhu powder (SLBZP) is one of the most effective and commonly used prescriptions. In this review, we aim to systematically summarize the clinical application and pharmacological mechanism of SLBZP in the treatment of UC to provide a theoretical basis for its clinical use and experimental evaluation of SLBZP. Our results showed that both SLBZP and SLBZP in combination with chemical drugs, have a significant therapeutic effect against UC with few adverse reactions. Furthermore, combined therapy was better than western medicine. Further, pathophysiological studies indicated that SLBZP has anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antioxidant effects, regulation relative cell signal transduction and regulation of gut microbiota. Although evidence suggests superior therapeutic efficacy of SLBZP for treating UC and the relative mechanism has been studied extensively, various shortcomings limit the existing research on the topic. There is a lack of UC animal models, especially UC with TCM syndromes, with no uniform standard and certain differences between the animal model and clinical syndrome. The dosage, dosage form, and therapeutic time of SLBZP are inconsistent and lack pharmacological verification, and clinical trial data are not detailed or sufficiently rigorous. In addition, SLSZP is composed of multiple Chinese drugs that contain massive numbers of ingredients and which or several components contribute to therapeutic effects. How they work synergistically together remains unknown. Therefore, on the one hand, large sample prospective cohort studies to clarify the clinical efficacy and safety of SLBZP in the treatment of UC are needed. In contrast, researchers should strengthen the study of the molecular biological mechanism of active ingredients and its synergistic actions, clarifying the mechanism of SLBZP in treating UC by multi-component, multi-target, and multi-pathway.

Chinese Medicine in the Treatment of Ulcerative Colitis: The Mechanisms of Signaling Pathway Regulations

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a common clinical inflammatory bowel disease characterized by repeated attacks, difficult treatment, and great harm to the physical and mental health of the patients. The occurrence and development of UC were closely related to the physiological and pathological processes, such as intestinal inflammatory reaction, oxidizing reaction, and immune response. Treatment of ulcerative colitis using Western medicine is often associated with a number of limitations and adverse events. There is a long history of using traditional Chinese medicine in dealing with this medical condition. Commonly used traditional Chinese medicines for the treatment of UC include Caulis Sargentodoxae, Flos Lonicerae, Fructus Cnidii, etc. Additionally, classic prescriptions such as Gegen Qinlian Formulae and Zuojin Pills can also be used to treat UC. To enrich the traditional Chinese medicine theory, the cognitive theory and perspective of network pharmacology and bioinformatics research of cell signal transduction mechanism of UC are emerging rapidly. Modern pharmacological studies focus on underlying mechanisms for the management of UC with Chinese medicine monomers, single Chinese medicines, and traditional Chinese medicine formulations, alleviating the symptoms of UC, controlling the development of intestinal inflammation, and restoring intestinal function through the regulation of key molecular signaling pathways, including PI3K/Akt, NF-[Formula: see text]B, JAK/STAT, MAPK and Notch. By summarizing current research progressions, this review provides key references for the in-depth exploration of the mechanisms focused on signaling pathways for the clinical management of UC using traditional Chinese medicine.

Tollip Orchestrates Macrophage Polarization to Alleviate Intestinal Mucosal Inflammation

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Regulation of macrophage polarization is a promising strategy for treating inflammatory bowel disease [IBD]. Tollip is an important negative regulator of Toll-like receptor [TLR]-mediated innate immunity with downregulated expression in the colon tissues of patients with IBD. This study aimed to regulate the expression of Tollip to affect macrophage polarization.

METHODS

A molecular, targeted immunotherapy method was developed by linking mannose-modified trimethyl chitosan [MTC] with Tollip-expressing plasmids via ionic cross-linking, forming MTC-Tollip nanoparticles with a targeting function. MTC-Tollip selectively targeted mouse intestinal macrophages to regulate the polarization of macrophages for mucosal repair.

RESULTS

Orally administered MTC-Tollip significantly elevated Tollip expression in intestinal tissue. Compared with MTC-negative control [NC]-treated mice in which colitis was induced with dextran sodium sulphate [DSS], the MTC-Tollip nanoparticle-treated mice exhibited decreased body weight loss and colon shortening, lower proinflammatory cytokine expression in colon tissues, and greater mucosal barrier integrity. MTC-Tollip treatment decreased TNF-α and iNOS expression but increased CD206 and Arg-1 expression in colon tissue. Tollip overexpression in mouse peritoneal macrophages inhibited lipopolysaccharide [LPS]-induced proinflammatory cytokine production and promoted IL-4-induced M2 expression. The progression of peritoneal macrophages extracted from Tollip-/- mice confirmed the effect of Tollip on macrophage polarization. Western blots showed that Tollip overexpression attenuated the upregulation of TLR pathway-associated targets in M1 macrophages.

CONCLUSIONS

MTC nanoparticles can be 'intelligent' carriers in immunotherapy. The modulation of Tollip expression in macrophages may be a novel treatment approach for IBD.

Licoflavone B, an isoprene flavonoid derived from licorice residue, relieves dextran sodium sulfate-induced ulcerative colitis by rebuilding the gut barrier and regulating intestinal microflora

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a major inflammatory disease worldwide. We previously demonstrated that licorice residue flavones (LFs) showed satisfactory efficacy in the treatment of UC. Therefore, research into the ingredients of LFs may lead to the discovery of novel anti-UC targets. In the current study, we separated licoflavone B (LB) from LFs and administered it to dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-exposed C57BL/6 mice for 14 days. Our results demonstrated that high dose LB (120mg/kg) significantly prevented DSS-induced weight loss, disease activity index (DAI) increase, histological damage, and colonic inflammation, indicating that LB has ameliorative effects on UC. We also investigated the composition of the intestinal barrier and microflora in an attempt to explore the mechanisms of LB against UC. As a result, we found that LB preserved the integrity of the colonic barrier by inhibiting colonic cell apoptosis and protecting the expression of occludin, claudin-1, and ZO-1. Moreover, LB reshaped the microflora composition by suppressing harmful bacteria (Enterococcus et al.) and boosting beneficial microorganisms (Bacteroides et al.). Further molecular exploration implied that LB exerted anti-UC activity through blocking the MAPK pathway. Here, we explored anti-UC activity of LB for the first time and clarified its mechanisms. These results will provide valuable clues for the discovery of novel anti-UC agents.

Modified Gegen Qinlian Decoction Regulates Treg/Th17 Balance to Ameliorate DSS-Induced Acute Experimental Colitis in Mice by Altering the Gut Microbiota

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is characterized by chronic pathology associated with extensive intestinal microbial dysregulation and intestinal inflammation. Thus, efforts are underway to manipulate the gut microbiome to improve inflammatory pathology. Gegen Qinlian decoction (GQD), a traditional Chinese medicine prescription, has been widely utilized for treating diarrhea and ulcerative colitis (UC) for thousands of years. However, the underlying mechanism of its efficacy and whether its protective effect against colitis is mediated by the gut microbiota are poorly understood. In the present study, our data demonstrated that modified GQD (MGQD) administration significantly improved the pathological phenotypes and colonic inflammation challenged by DSS in mice, which were specifically manifested as reduced loss of body weight, shortening of colon length, DAI score, histological score and suppressed inflammatory response. 16S rRNA sequencing and targeted metabonomics analysis showed that MQGD altered the diversity and community landscape of the intestinal microbiota and the metabolic profiles. In particular, MQGD significantly boosted the abundance of the intestinal microbiota producing short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which are causally associated with promoting the development of Treg cells and suppressing the differentiation of pro-inflammatory Th17 cells. More importantly, transferring fecal microbiota from MGQD-treated or healthy controls exhibited equivalent alleviative effects on colitis mice. However, this protective effect could not be replicated in experiments of mice with depleted intestinal microbes through broad-spectrum antibiotic cocktails (ABX), further supporting the importance of SCFA-producing gut microbiota in the beneficial role of MGQD. In general, MGQD therapy has the potential to remodel the intestinal microbiome and reestablish immune homeostasis to ameliorate DSS-induced colitis.

Eugenol Alleviates Dextran Sulfate Sodium-Induced Colitis Independent of Intestinal Microbiota in Mice

The present study investigated the effect of eugenol (EUG) on dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis and explored the underlying mechanisms. C57BL/6 mice were intragastrically administered normal saline or EUG (20 mg/kg body weight) for 17 days, and colitis was induced by using 3% DSS from day 7. The results showed that EUG increased the body weight and reduced the disease activity index score and colon pathological scores in DSS-treated mice (P < 0.05). Further, EUG preserved the proinflammatory cytokines (interleukin (IL)-6, -12, -21, and -23), lowered (P < 0.05) colonic malondialdehyde (MDA), uncoupling protein 2 (UCP2) expression and p65 phosphorylation, and activated (P < 0.05) colonic kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 and nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 expressions but did not affect the intestinal microbiota in DSS-treated mice. Furthermore, EUG ameliorated colitis in antibiotic-treated mice, while fecal microbiota transplantation from EUG preadministered mice failed to ameliorate colitis. In conclusion, EUG could alleviate colitis by attenuating colonic inflammation and oxidative stress independent of intestinal microbiota.

Biological properties of andrographolide, an active ingredient of Andrographis Paniculata: a narrative review

Andrographolide is a labdane diterpenoid isolated from Andrographis paniculata and traditionally used in Chinese and Indian medicine. Reported effects include anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer functions. Most of the studies support the hypothesis that andrographolide supplementation stimulates immune system, so the observed effects migh in fact be secondary to the stimulation of defense reactions. As andrographolide is involved in regulation of inflammation, it is not surprising that it is also evaluated in inflammation-mediated diseases such as ulcerative colitis. Anticancer effects of the andrographolide have been tested on various cancer panels. Colon cancer, breast cancer, and head and neck carcinomas were the most investigated, followed by prostate cancer and glioblastoma. The results looked promising. However, problems with solubility and low level of active substance in natural extract leads to preparation of chemical analogs. Objective of this short review is to summarize current knowledge of the biological effects of andragrapholide. We conclude that despite documented effects and some partly characterized mechanisms of action, more research is clearly needed. At present, the doses, types of treatment and possible negative side effects are not yet established. In addition, various isolations and compound formulas have been used for treatment of various diseases, making final conclusions problematic.

Juglone Suppresses Inflammation and Oxidative Stress in Colitis Mice

Juglone (JUG), a natural product found in walnut trees and other plants, shows potent antioxidant, antimicrobial, and immunoregulatory activities. However, it remains unknown whether JUG can alleviate ulcerative colitis. This study aims to explore the effect of JUG on dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis in mice. The mice were randomly assigned into three groups: the vehicle group, the DSS group, and the JUG group. The experiments lasted for 17 days; during the experiment, all mice received dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO, 0.03% v/v)-containing water, while the mice in the JUG group received DMSO-containing water supplemented with JUG (0.04 w/v). Colitis was induced by administering DSS (3% w/v) orally for 10 consecutive days. The results showed that the JUG treatment significantly ameliorated body weight loss and disease activity index and improved the survival probability, colon length, and tissue damage. JUG reversed the DSS-induced up-regulation of proinflammatory cytokines, including interleukin (IL)-6, 12, 21, and 23, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and anti-inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-10 and transforming growth factor-beta, in the serum of the colitis mice. Additionally, the activation of mitochondrial uncoupling protein 2 and phospho-Nuclear Factor-kappa B p65 and the inhibition of the kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 and NF-E2-related factor 2 induced by DSS were also reversed under JUG administration. Although the JUG group possessed a similar microbial community structure as the DSS group, JUG enriched potential beneficial microbes such as Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group but not pathogens such as Escherichia Shigella, which was dominative in DSS group, at the genus level. In conclusion, our results demonstrated that JUG could be a promising agent for UC prevention to regulate inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress.

Atractylodin Attenuates Dextran Sulfate Sodium-Induced Colitis by Alleviating Gut Microbiota Dysbiosis and Inhibiting Inflammatory Response Through the MAPK Pathway

In this study, we investigated the therapeutic effects and mechanism of atractylodin (ATL) on dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced ulcerative colitis in mice. We found that atractylodin could significantly reverse the effects of DSS-induced ulcerative colitis, such as weight loss, disease activity index score; shorten the colon length, and reverse the pathological changes in the colon of mice. Atractylodin could inhibit the activation of colonic macrophages by inhibiting the MAPK pathway and alleviate intestinal inflammation in the mouse model of ulcerative colitis. Moreover, it could protect the intestinal barrier by inhibiting the decrease of the tight junction proteins, ZO-1, occludin, and MUC2. Additionally, atractylodin could decrease the abundance of harmful bacteria and increase that of beneficial bacteria in the intestinal tract of mice, effectively improving the intestinal microecology. In an LPS-induced macrophage model, atractylodin could inhibit the MAPK pathway and expression of the inflammatory factors of macrophages. Atractylodin could also inhibit the production of lactate, which is the end product of glycolysis; inhibit the activity of GAPDH, which is an important rate-limiting enzyme in glycolysis; inhibit the malonylation of GAPDH, and, thus, inhibit the translation of TNF-α. Therefore, ours is the first study to highlight the potential of atractylodin in the treatment of ulcerative colitis and reveal its possible mechanism.

The Regulatory Effects of Licochalcone A on the Intestinal Epithelium and Gut Microbiota in Murine Colitis

The gut epithelium is a mechanical barrier that protects the host from the luminal microenvironment and interacts with the gut microflora, which influences the development and progression of ulcerative colitis (UC). Licochalcone A (LA) exerts anti-inflammatory effects against UC; however, whether it also regulates both the gut barrier and microbiota during colitis is unknown. The current study was conducted to reveal the regulatory effects of LA on the intestinal epithelium and gut microflora in C57BL/6 mice subjected to dextran sodium sulfate (DSS). Sulfasalazine (SASP) was used as the positive control. Results of clinical symptoms evaluation, hematoxylin, and eosin (H&E) staining, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent (ELISA) assays showed that LA significantly inhibited DSS-induced weight loss, disease activity index (DAI) increase, histological damage, and gut inflammation. Additionally, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) and immunohistochemical (IHC) analysis showed that LA maintained the integrity of the intestinal barrier by suppressing cell apoptosis and preserving the expression of tight junction (TJ) proteins. Notably, the optimal dose of LA for gut barrier preservation was low, while that for anti-inflammatory effects was high, indicating that LA might preserve gut barrier integrity via direct effects on the epithelial cells (ECs) and TJ proteins. Furthermore, 16S rRNA analysis suggested that the regulatory effect of LA on the gut microbiota differed distinctly according to dose. Correlation analysis indicated that a low dose of LA significantly modulated the intestinal barrier-associated bacteria as compared with a moderate or high dose of LA. Western blot (WB) analysis indicated that LA exhibited anti-UC activity partly by blocking the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway. Our results further elucidate the pharmacological activity of LA against UC and will provide valuable information for future studies regarding on the regulatory effects of LA on enteric diseases.

Current Trends on Repurposing and Pharmacological Enhancement of Andrographolide

Andrographolide, the main bioactive component separated from Andrographis paniculata in 1951, has been scrutinized with a modern drug discovery approach for anti-inflammatory properties since 1984. Identification of new uses of existing drugs can be facilitated by searching for evidence linking them to known or yet undiscovered drug targets and human disease states to develop new therapeutic indications.Furthermore, a wide spectrum of biological properties of andrographolide such as anticancer, antibacterial, antiviral, hepatoprotective, antioxidant, anti-malarial, anti-atherosclerosis are also reported. However, poor water solubility and instability limit its clinical application. It becomes crucial to enhance its pharmacological function and find a new treatment option for more diseases. Therefore, this article reviews the major recent developments in andrographolide, including repurposing applications in different diseases and underlying mechanisms, particularly focusing on pharmacological enhancement of andrographolide such as derivatives, chemical modifications with potent biological activity and drug delivery. The repurposing and pharmacological enhancement of andrographolide would not only have exciting therapeutic potential to different diseases to facilitate drug marketing, but also decrease the economic burden on healthcare worldwide.

Ethnobotany, Pharmacological activities and Bioavailability studies of "King of Bitter" (Kalmegh): A Review (2010-2020)

BACKGROUND

Andrographis paniculata, commonly known as "Kalmegh", is an annual herbaceous plant from family Acanthaceae. The whole plant of A. paniculata has explored for multiple pharmacological activities and is scientifically recognized by in-vivo and in-vitro studies. Various biotechnologically engineered techniques have been explored to enhance the bioavailability of this plant.

OBJECTIVE

In this review, we aim to present comprehensive recent advances in the ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, specific pharmacology, safety and toxicology and bioavailability of A. paniculata and its pure compounds. Possible directions for future research are also outlined in brief, which will encourage advance investigations on this plant.

METHODS

Information on the recent updates of the present review is collected from different electronic scientific databases such as Science Direct, PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. All the composed information is classified into different sections according to the objective of the paper.

RESULTS

More than hundred research and review papers have been studied and incorporated in the present manuscript. After vast literature search of A. paniculata, we present a noteworthy report of various phytoconstituents present in plant, which are accountable for potential therapeutic properties of the plant. Forty-five of studied articles give general information about introduction, ethnobotany and traditional uses of the plant. Twenty-two papers enclosed information about the phytoconstituents present in different parts of A. paniculata and seventy-two papers briefly outlined the pharmacological activities like antioxidant, anti-dengue, anti-ulcerogenic, antifungal, some miscellaneous activities like activity against SARS-CoV-2, antidiarrhoeal. Nineteen studies highlighted the research work conducted by various researchers to increased bioavailability of A. paniculata and two studies reported the safety and toxicology of the plant.

CONCLUSION

This review incorporated the scientifically validated research work encompassing the ethnobotanical description of the subjected plant, phytochemical profile, various pharmacological activities, and recent approaches to enhance the bioavailability of active metabolites.

Metformin alleviates inflammation in oxazolone induced ulcerative colitis in rats: plausible role of sphingosine kinase 1/sphingosine 1 phosphate signaling pathway

OBJECTIVES

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that is associated with high sphingosine kinase 1(SPHK1) expression in the colon, however its role in pathogenesis of UC is not clearly understood so, the aim of the present study was to clarify the role of SPHK1 and investigate whether the anti-inflammatory effects of metformin in UC is mediated by Sphingosine kinase 1/sphingosine 1 phosphate (S1P) signaling pathway.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Colitis was induced in adult male wistar rats by intra rectal administration of oxazolone in the fifth and seventh days from initial presensitization. Oxazolone treated rats were divided into untreated oxazolone group, metformin and mesalazine treated groups both in a dose of 100 mg/kg/day orally for 21 days. Along with these groups normal control and saline groups were used .Colitis was assessed by colon length, disease activity index (DAI) and histological examination of colontissue. Plasma samples were used to measure S1P.SPHK1 activity, signal transducer and activator of transcription -3(STAT-3), interleukin-6 (IL-6), nitric oxide (NO), myeloperoxidase activity (MPO), reduced glutathione (GSH) and tissue expression of intracellular cell adhesion molecule -1(ICAM-1) and caspase-3 genes were measured in tissue.

RESULTS

Metformin successfully attenuated oxazolone colitis by increasing colon length, decreasing DAI and improved colon histologic picture. Metformin also induced a significant decrease in Plasma SIP, SPHK1 activity, inflammatory, oxidative stress markers, ICAM-1 and Caspase-3 genes expression compared to oxazolone group.

CONCLUSION

It is revealed that metformin alleviated inflammation and underlying mechanism may result from inhibition of SPHK1/S1P signaling pathway.

Anticolitic Effect of Berberine in Rat Experimental Model: Impact of PGE2/p38 MAPK Pathways

Berberine (BER), a natural isoquinoline alkaloid, has been demonstrated to have appreciable anticolitis effects. Nevertheless, the protective mechanism of BER in ulcerative colitis (UC) is barely understood. The present study was aimed at exploring the therapeutic efficacy of BER on UC in experimental colitis rat model. Rats were orally administered with BER for seven days at low and high doses (25 and 50 mg/kg/day) before AcOH intracolonic instillation. BER significantly retrieved colon inflammation and mucosal damage indicated by inhibition of macroscopic score and lessened the levels of inflammatory biomarkers (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, MPO, and PGE2). Notable downregulation of mRNA expression of p38 MAPK and increased protein expression of TGF-β were achieved by BER treatment. The anti-inflammatory potential of BER was supported by the histopathological screening of colon mucosa. In addition, BER restored colonic antioxidant capacity through elevation of GSH level and antioxidant enzymatic activities (SOD, CAT, GPx, and GR) together with reductions of both MDA and NO levels. Marked downregulation of Nos2 mRNA expression is accompanied by increased Nrf2 and Hmox-1 expressions in colon specimens treated by BER. Furthermore, BER exhibited noticeable antiapoptotic activities through decreasing proapoptotic proteins (Bax and caspase-3) and lessening antiapoptotic Bcl-2 protein in the colon mucosa. Based on these findings, BER may improve colitis markedly which may be mediated by its striking antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic properties.

Anemoside B4 prevents acute ulcerative colitis through inhibiting of TLR4/NF-κB/MAPK signaling pathway

Anemoside B4 (B4) is a compound extracted from Pulsatilla chinensis(P. chinensis). Pharmacological studies have proved that it has certain anti-inflammatory activity. Acute ulcerative colitis (ulcerative colitis) is a non-specific inflammatory disease whose pathogenesis is not completely known, and there is no effective drugs. The purpose of this study was to investigate the protective effect of B4 on ulcerative colitis and its mechanism. In this study, the C57BL/6 mice model of ulcerative colitis was established by DSS [3% (w/v)] and treated with intraperitoneal injection of B4 and oral administration of mesalazine, respectively. During the experiment, the clinical symptoms of the mice were scored by the disease activity index (DAI). Histopathological changes were observed by HE staining. In addition, the effect of LPS on Raw264.7 cells was also studied. In vivo studies showed that B4 could prevent DSS-induced colitis mice from losing weight, shortening colon length and improving pathological changes of colon tissues. B4 significantly reduced levels of inflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α in colon tissues. In vitro experiments, B4 was almost nontoxic to Raw264.7 cells and could protect the Raw264.7 cells induced by LPS. In terms of mechanism, B4 significantly inhibited the activation of the TLR4 signaling pathway induced by DSS and down-regulate the expression of key proteins in the TLR4/NF-κB/MAPK signaling pathway in Raw264.7 cells induced by LPS. These findings suggest that the inhibition of B4 on ulcerative colitis may be through the TLR4/NF-κB/MAPK pathway. Therefore, B4 may be used as a potential drug for the treatment of ulcerative colitis.

Anti-inflammatory properties of uvaol on DSS-induced colitis and LPS-stimulated macrophages

Background

Apocynum venetum leaves are used as a kind of phytomedicine and the main ingredient in some traditional Chinese medicine products for the relief of colitis. To understand the bioactive constituents of A. venetum L., we did a phytochemistry study and investigated anti-Inflammatory effects of compounds and explored the underlying mechanisms.

Methods

We isolated compounds from ethanol extract of A. venetum L. leaf and detected the most effective compound by NO inhibition assay. We investigated anti-Inflammatory effects on dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis mice and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW264.7 cells. The disease activity index was determined by scores of body weight loss, diarrhea and rectal bleeding; histological damage was analyzed by H&E staining; macrophages change in the colon were analyzed by immunohistochemistry (IHC); myeloperoxidase activity was measured by myeloperoxidase assay kits; levels of proinflammatory cytokines were determined by qPCR and ELISA; protein production such as COX-2, iNOS, STAT3 and ERK1/2 were determined by western blotting.

Results

We isolated uvaol from ethanol extract of A. venetum L. leaf and found uvaol has excellent potential of inhibiting NO production. We further found uvaol could attenuate disease activity index (DAI), colon shortening, colon injury, and colonic myeloperoxidase activity in DSS-induced colitis mice. Moreover, uvaol significantly reduces mRNA expression and production of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, and MCP-1) and infiltration of macrophages in colonic tissues of colitis mice. Studies on LPS challenged murine macrophage RAW246.7 cells also revealed that uvaol reduces mRNA expression and production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and mediators. Mechanically, uvaol inhibits the pro-inflammatory ERK/STAT3 axis in both inflamed colonic tissues and macrophages.

Conclusions

A. venetum leaf contains uvaol and uvaol has potent anti-inflammatory effects on DSS-induced experimental colitis and LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophage cells. These results suggest uvaol is a prospective anti-inflammatory agent for colonic inflammation.

Andrographolide derivative AL-1 reduces intestinal permeability in dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced mice colitis model

AIMS

This study was to assess whether andrographolide derivative (AL-1) could restore mucosal homeostasis and regulate tight junctions through MLCK-dependent pathway in DSS-induced colitis mice.

MAIN METHODS

Colitis mice model was induced by daily administration of 2.5% DSS for seven days. The therapeutic effect was determined by evaluating the histopathological changes and the pro-inflammatory cytokine level. In addition, the effects of AL-1 on tight junctions were examined by immunohistochemistry and Western blot. The expressions of factors in MLCK-dependent pathway were evaluated by immunofluorescence and Western blot.

KEY FINDINGS

AL-1 protected the intestinal barrier function in DSS-induced colitis mice. These protective effects were achieved by maintaining the normal mucus secretion and preserving tight junctions via suppression of the MLCK-dependent pathway.

SIGNIFICANCE

AL-1 could prevent the increase in the DSS-induced intestinal permeability. These data indicated that AL-1 could be a promising agent for UC treatment.