1
|
Etezadi A, Akhtare A, Asadikalameh Z, Aghaei ZH, Panahinia P, Arman M, Abtahian A, Khorasani FF, Hazari V. Linc00513 sponges miR-7 to modulate TGF-β signaling in azoospermia. Eur J Transl Myol 2024; 34:12516. [PMID: 38952199 PMCID: PMC11487652 DOI: 10.4081/ejtm.2024.12516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Azoospermia, or the complete absence of sperm in the ejaculate, affects about 1% of men worldwide and is a significant fertility challenge. This study investigates Linc00513, a long non-coding RNA, and its potential role in regulating the TGF-β signaling pathway, a key player in spermatogenesis, in the context of azoospermia. We show that Linc00513 expression is significantly lower in testicular tissues from azoospermic patients than in HS1 controls. Linc00513 interacts directly with microRNA-7 (miR-7) via complementary base pairing, acting as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA). This interaction effectively inhibits miR-7's inhibitory action on the TGF-β receptor 1 (TGFBR1), a critical component of the TGF-β signaling cascade. Downregulating Linc00513 reduces TGFBR1 repression and increases TGF-β signaling in azoospermic testes. Functional assays with spermatogonial cell lines support these findings. Silencing Linc00513 leads to increased cell proliferation and decreased apoptosis, similar to TGF-β inhibition. Overexpression of miR-7 inhibits the effects of Linc00513 on TGF-β signaling. Our study sheds new light on how Linc00513, miR-7, and the TGF-β signaling pathway interact in azoospermia. Linc00513 regulates TGFBR1 expression and thus influences spermatogonial cell fate by acting as a miR-7 ceRNA. These findings identify a potential therapeutic target for azoospermia treatment, paving the way for future research into restoring fertility in affected individuals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Atoosa Etezadi
- Department of Gynecology, School of Medicine, Alzahra Hospital, Guilan University of Medical Sciences.
| | | | - Zahra Asadikalameh
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, Yasuj.
| | - Zeinab Hashem Aghaei
- Preventative Gynecology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran.
| | - Paria Panahinia
- Preventative Gynecology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran.
| | | | - Amene Abtahian
- Nical Research Development Center, Mahdiyeh Educational Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University Medical Science, Tehran.
| | - Fereshteh Faghih Khorasani
- General Physician in Medicine Program, General Doctorate Degree of Yazd, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd.
| | - Vajihe Hazari
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Rooyesh Infertility Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Ma K, Li M, Song Y, Mao X, Zhang S, Zhang Y, Jiang Y, Ji C, Niu K, Li H, Hou Y, Wei C. Bazi Bushen alleviates reproductive aging in aged male mice. Chin J Nat Med 2024; 22:416-425. [PMID: 38796215 DOI: 10.1016/s1875-5364(24)60639-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2024]
Abstract
Bazi Bushen (BZBS), a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), has demonstrated therapeutic efficacy in testicular dysfunction within D-galactose and NaNO2 mouse models. This study aimed to ascertain if BZBS could also mitigate the decline in testicular function associated with natural aging. Therefore, male aged mice were employed to evaluate the preventive effects of BZBS on male reproductive aging. This was achieved by assessing sex hormone production, testicular histomorphology, and spermatogenesis. Relative to the untreated aged control group, BZBS administration elevated the levels of sex hormones and spermatocyte populations and preserved normal testicular structure in aged mice. Notably, spermatogenesis was maintained. Further analyses, including malondialdehyde (MDA) assays and real-time PCR, indicated that BZBS diminished testicular oxidative stress and the inflammatory burden. Corroborating these findings, mice treated with BZBS exhibited reductions in the populations of senescent and apoptotic cells within the seminiferous tubules, suggesting alleviated cellular damage. In contrast, we observed that rapamycin, a drug known for its longevity benefits, induced excessive testicular apoptosis and did not decrease lipid peroxidation. Collectively, our results highlight BZBS's promising clinical potential in counteracting male reproductive aging, underlining its mechanisms of action.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kun Ma
- Graduate School, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang 050091, China
| | - Mengnan Li
- State Key Laboratory for Innovation and Transformation of Luobing Theory, Shijiazhuang 050035, China; Key Laboratory of State Administration of TCM (Cardio-Cerebral Vessel Collateral Disease), Shijiazhuang 050035, China
| | - Yahui Song
- Graduate School, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang 050091, China; State Key Laboratory for Innovation and Transformation of Luobing Theory, Shijiazhuang 050035, China
| | - Xinjing Mao
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine·College of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China; Hebei Provincial Key Laboratory of Luobing, Shijiazhuang 050035, China
| | - Shaolan Zhang
- Graduate School, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang 050091, China; Key Disciplines of State Administration of TCM for Luobing, Shijiazhuang 050035, China
| | - Yaping Zhang
- Graduate School, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang 050091, China; Key Disciplines of State Administration of TCM for Luobing, Shijiazhuang 050035, China
| | - Yuning Jiang
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine·College of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China; Hebei Provincial Key Laboratory of Luobing, Shijiazhuang 050035, China
| | - Chuanyuan Ji
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine·College of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China; Hebei Provincial Key Laboratory of Luobing, Shijiazhuang 050035, China
| | - Kunxu Niu
- Key Laboratory of State Administration of TCM (Cardio-Cerebral Vessel Collateral Disease), Shijiazhuang 050035, China; Hebei Provincial Key Laboratory of Luobing, Shijiazhuang 050035, China
| | - Hongrong Li
- State Key Laboratory for Innovation and Transformation of Luobing Theory, Shijiazhuang 050035, China; Hebei Provincial Key Laboratory of Luobing, Shijiazhuang 050035, China
| | - Yunlong Hou
- State Key Laboratory for Innovation and Transformation of Luobing Theory, Shijiazhuang 050035, China; Hebei Provincial Key Laboratory of Luobing, Shijiazhuang 050035, China.
| | - Cong Wei
- Graduate School, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang 050091, China; State Key Laboratory for Innovation and Transformation of Luobing Theory, Shijiazhuang 050035, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Han S, Dai Y, Sun L, Xing Y, Ding Y, Zhang X, Xu S. Molecular mechanism of Cuscutae semen-radix rehmanniae praeparata in relieving reproductive injury of male rats induced with tripterygium wilfordii multiglycosides: A tandem mass tag-based proteomics analysis. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1050907. [PMID: 36874004 PMCID: PMC9982038 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1050907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: We determined the effects of Cuscutae semen (Cuscuta chinensis Lam. or Cuscuta australis R. Br.)-Radix rehmanniae praeparata (Rehjnannia glutinosa Libosch.) on the protein levels in testicular tissues of rats gavaged with tripterygium wilfordii multiglycosides (GTW) and elucidated the molecular mechanism underlying Cuscutae semen-Radix rehmanniae praeparata for relieving GTW-induced reproductive injury. Methods: A total of 21 male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into the control group, model group, and Cuscutae semen-Radix rehmanniae praeparata group based on their body weights. The control group was given 10 mLkg-1 of 0.9% normal saline by gavage daily. The model group (GTW group) was administered with 12 mg kg-1 GTW by gavage daily. Cuscutae semen-Radix rehmanniae praeparata group (the TSZSDH group) was administered with 1.56 gkg-1 of Cuscutae semen-Radix rehmanniae praeparata granules daily according to their model group dosing. The serum levels of luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, estradiol, and testosterone were measured after 12 weeks of continuous gavage, and the pathological lesion of testicular tissues was observed. Differentially expressed proteins were evaluated by quantitative proteomics and verified by western blotting (WB) and Real-Time Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-qPCR). Results: Cuscutae semen-Radix rehmanniae praeparata can effectively relieve pathological lesions of GTW-induced testicular tissues. A total of 216 differentially expressed proteins were identified in the TSZSDH group and model group. High-throughput proteomics revealed that differentially expressed proteins are closely associated with the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) signaling pathway, protein digestion and absorption, and protein glycan pathway in cancer. Cuscutae semen-Radix rehmanniae praeparata can significantly upregulate the protein expressions of Acsl1, Plin1, Dbil5, Plin4, Col12a1, Col1a1, Col5a3, Col1a2, Dcn, so as to play a protective role on testicular tissues. Acsl1, Plin1, and PPARγ on the PPAR signaling pathway were verified by WB and RT-qPCR experiments, which were found to be consistent with the results of proteomics analysis. Conclusion: Cuscutae semen and Radix rehmanniae praeparata may regulate the PPAR signaling pathway mediated Acsl1, Plin1 and PPARγ to reduce the testicular tissue damage of male rats caused by GTW.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shanshan Han
- Pediatric Medical College, Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China.,Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yanlin Dai
- Pediatric Medical College, Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Lihui Sun
- Pediatric Medical College, Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yaping Xing
- Pediatric Medical College, Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ying Ding
- Pediatric Medical College, Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China.,Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xia Zhang
- Pediatric Medical College, Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China.,Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Shanshan Xu
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Chen Z, Dong B, Jiang Y, Peng Y, Li W, Yu L, Gao Y, Hu C. Effect of Wuzi Yanzong prescription on oligoasthenozoospermia rats based on UPLC-Q-TOF-MS metabolomics. PHARMACEUTICAL BIOLOGY 2022; 60:1533-1541. [PMID: 35943740 PMCID: PMC9373773 DOI: 10.1080/13880209.2022.2101670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Wuzi Yanzong Prescription (WYP) has long been used to treat male infertility, with convincing clinical evidence. However, its mechanism of action is not clear. OBJECTIVE WYP chemical components were quantified by HPLC, and the effect on oligoasthenozoospermia rats was explored based on UPLC-Q-TOF-MS metabonomics technology. MATERIALS AND METHODS The solution was extracted by alcohol and water; the content of eight components in the extracting solution was determined by HPLC. Twenty-four Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into control (CG), model (MG) and administration (PG) groups. Oligoasthenozoospermia was induced for 30 days in all, but the CG with daily oral doses of 20 mg/kg Tripterysium glycosides (TG). PG was given daily oral doses of WYP solution (1.08 g/kg), CG and MG received the same volume of distilled water, all administered for 30 days. After the last administration, the serum samples were collected and detected by UPLC-Q-TOF-MS. RESULTS An HPLC method for simultaneous determination of chlorogenic acid (0.081%), ellagic acid (0.021%), hyperoside (0.032%), verbascoside (0.011%), isoquercitrin (0.041%), astragalin (0.026%), kaempferol (0.009%) and schisandrin (0.014%) was established. Moreover, the 74 potential biomarkers and eight metabolic pathways related to oligoasthenozoospermia were identified by multivariate analysis and metabolite profiling. WYP can regulate 36 markers, mainly involving amino acid metabolism, lipid metabolism and nucleotide metabolism. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS This is a simple and accurate method for quality control of WYP. It further enriches the potential mechanism of WYP in the treatment of oligoasthenozoospermia. It can provide a theoretical basis for the rational application of WYP.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhimin Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Baohua Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Yunxiu Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Ying Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Wenbing Li
- Institute of Qinghai Tibetan Plateau, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Lingying Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Yongxiang Gao
- International Education College, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Changjiang Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- Sichuan Neo-Green Pharmaceutical Technology Development Co., Ltd, Chengdu, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Therapeutic Effects of Xianlu Oral Solution on Rats with Oligoasthenozoospermia through Alleviating Apoptosis and Oxidative Stress. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2022; 2022:1269530. [PMID: 35761898 PMCID: PMC9233599 DOI: 10.1155/2022/1269530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Idiopathic oligoasthenozoospermia (iOAZS) is one of the major causes of male infertility, and the ideal therapies for iOAZS have not been established yet. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), including Xianlu oral solution (XL), has been widely used as an adjunct treatment for male infertility in the clinic. However, the underlying mechanisms of XL treatment on iOAZS are still not known. Here, we found that XL treatment has therapeutic effects on ornidazole (ORN)-induced OAZS model rats through the amelioration of testis tissues spermatogenesis and the improvement of sperm concentration and motility. Moreover, XL treatment ameliorated the serum hormone levels, mitochondrial membrane potential, apoptosis status, and oxidative stress status in the testis tissues of iOAZS model rats. These findings identify a potential mechanism underlying the therapeutic effects of Xianlu oral solution on iOAZS, and Xianlu oral solution may be used as a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) therapy for male infertility caused by iOAZS in clinical practice.
Collapse
|
6
|
Pan Z, Gao Y, Liu S, Ke Z, Guo J, Ma W, Cui T, Liu B, Zhang X. Wu-Zi-Yan-Zong-Wan protects mouse blood-testis barrier from Tripterygium wilfordii Hook. f. multiglycoside-induced disruption by regulating proinflammatory cytokines. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 280:114440. [PMID: 34293456 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2021.114440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Revised: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/17/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Wu-Zi-Yan-Zong-Wan (WZYZW) is a classical traditonal Chinese herbal formula and a Chinese patent medicine used to treat male infertility. However, the chemical components of WZYZW and its mechanism are not yet fully clarified. AIM OF THE STUDY The purpose of this study is to observe the effect and underlying mechanism of WZYZW on ameliorating blood-testis barrier (BTB) dysfunction in mice with spermatogenic dysfunction induced by administration of Tripterygium wilfordii Hook. f. multiglycosides (GTW). MATERIALS AND METHODS WZYZW was administered by gavage to mice with GTW-induced spermatogenic dysfunction (kidney essence deficiency pattern) for 40 days. Testis tissues were obtained for subsequent histopathological analysis. Biotin tracing was used to evaluate the permeability of Sertoli cell tight junctions. The levels of proinflammatory cytokines including interleukin (IL)-6, IL-17A, IL-1α and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α were analyzed by ELISA. The expression levels of proteins related to tight junction including ZO-1, JAM-A and occludin were analyzed by western blotting. The ultrastructures of tight junctions were observed by transmission electron microscopy. RESULTS WZYZW ameliorated GTW-induced testicular spermatogenic dysfunction. Levels of IL-6, IL-17A, IL-1α, and TNF-α in the groups receiving low, medium, and high doses of WZYZW decreased in a dose-dependent manner. WZYZW impeded a biotin tracer from permeating the BTB, protecting its integrity in GTW-treated mice. In addition, our results showed no significant changes in the protein expressions of ZO-1, JAM-A, and occludin after WZYZW administration compared with the GTW group. Meanwhile, WZYZW exhibited a linear arrangement and restored the typical "sandwich" structure of BTB. No acute poisoning incidences were observed in all groups during the experiment. CONCLUSIONS Our findings demonstrate that WZYZW may ameliorate some GTW-induced BTB dysfunction, possibly by regulating proinflammatory cytokine levels. In vitro studies on the regulation of BTB permeability by WZYZW and its active components are further required.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhenkun Pan
- Graduate School of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China; Department of Andrology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, 100029, China.
| | - Yunxiao Gao
- Department of Andrology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, 100029, China.
| | - Shuang Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, First People's Hospital of Chongqing Liangjiang New District, Chongqing, 401121, China.
| | - Zhenghao Ke
- Department of Andrology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, 100029, China.
| | - Jianqiang Guo
- Department of Andrology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, 100029, China.
| | - Wenjing Ma
- Department of Andrology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, 100029, China.
| | - Tianwei Cui
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100091, China.
| | - Baoxing Liu
- Department of Andrology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, 100029, China.
| | - Xiuping Zhang
- Department of Gynecology, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine Third Affiliated Hospital, Beijing 100029, China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Xu YH, Li Y, Hu SQ, Li CR, Liu DL, Hu K, Cui LD, Guo J. Effect of Wuzi Yanzong Pills on Sertoli cells and blood-testis barrier in heat-stressed rats based on Akt signalling pathway. Andrologia 2021; 53:e14169. [PMID: 34197007 DOI: 10.1111/and.14169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2021] [Revised: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The blood-testis barrier (BTB) of Sertoli cells (SCs) is an important biological barrier that maintains spermatogenesis and provides a favourable microenvironment for spermatogenesis. However, heat stress can directly damage the BTB structural proteins of testicular SCs, leading to dyszoospermia. Wuzi Yanzong Pills (WYP) is a traditional Chinese medicine formula used to treat male reproductive diseases. However, whether WYP could ameliorate heat stress injury in primary SCs extracted from rat testes and BTB proteins remains unknown. Here, treatment with WYP (low, medium and high dose) increased the SC viability and the proliferation of cell antigen Ki67 significantly. Additionally, it promoted SC maturation, which presented in the form of increased androgen receptors (ARs) and decreased cytokeratin 18 (CK-18) in three WYP dose groups. WYP upregulated BTB proteins such as zonula occludens 1 (ZO-1) and occludin across all WYP groups and decreased phosphorylated Akt (p-Akt) in the middle and high-dose groups; however, ZO-1 and occludin recovery were reduced with the presence of Akt inhibitor in WYP groups. WYP improved SC viability and proliferation, and ameliorated dedifferentiation and BTB-proteins damaged by heat stress via Akt signalling. The findings present theoretical support for the effects of WYP in the management of dyszoospermia and male infertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Hui Xu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yue Li
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Su-Qin Hu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Chun-Rui Li
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Dian-Long Liu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Ke Hu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Li-Dan Cui
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Jian Guo
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Chen Y, Bi F, Sun Z. A network pharmacology approach to determine the underlying mechanisms of action of Yishen Tongluo formula for the treatment of oligoasthenozoospermia. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0252906. [PMID: 34153045 PMCID: PMC8216565 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0252906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Oligoasthenozoospermia is a complex disease caused by a variety of factors, and its incidence is increasing yearly worldwide. Yishen Tongluo formula (YSTLF), created by Professor Sun Zixue, has been used to treat oligoasthenozoospermia in clinical practice for several decades with a good therapeutic effect. However, the chemical and pharmacological profiles of YSTLF remain unclear and need to be elucidated. In this study, a network pharmacology approach was applied to explore the potential mechanisms of YSTLF in oligoasthenozoospermia treatment. All of the compounds in YSTLF were retrieved from the corresponding databases, and the bioactive ingredients were screened according to their oral bioavailability (OB) and drug-likeness (DL). The potential proteins of YSTLF were obtained from the traditional Chinese medicine systems pharmacology (TCMSP) database and the Bioinformatics Analysis Tool for Molecular Mechanism of Traditional Chinese Medicine (BATMAN-TCM) database, while the potential genes of oligoasthenozoospermia were obtained from the GeneCards database and the DisGeNET database. The STRING database was used to construct an interaction network according to the common targets identified by the online tool Venny for YSTLF and oligoasthenozoospermia. The topological characteristics of nodes were visualized and analyzed through Cytoscape. Biological functions and significant pathways were determined and analyzed using the Gene Ontology (GO) knowledgebase, the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) and Metascape. Finally, the disease-formula-compound-target-pathway network was constructed by Cytoscape. A total of 106 bioactive ingredients and 134 potential targets from YSTLF were associated with oligoasthenozoospermia or considered to be therapeutically relevant. Pathway analysis indicated that the PI3K/Akt, MAPK and apoptosis signaling pathways were significant pathways involved in oligoasthenozoospermia. In conclusion, the current study expounded the pharmacological actions and molecular mechanisms of YSTLF in treating oligoasthenozoospermia from a holistic viewpoint. The potential molecular mechanisms were closely related to antioxidative stress, antiapoptosis and anti-inflammation, with TNF, CCND1, ESR1, NFKBIA, NR3C1, MAPK8, and IL6 being possible targets. This network pharmacology prediction may offer a helpful tool to illustrate the molecular mechanisms of the Chinese herbal compound YSTLF in oligoasthenozoospermia treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yangdi Chen
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, Henan, P. R. China
| | - Fanggang Bi
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, P. R. China
| | - Zixue Sun
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Henan Province Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine (The Second Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine), Zhengzhou, Henan, P. R. China
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Bai X, Tang Y, Li Q, Liu D, Liu G, Fan X, Liu Z, Yu S, Tang T, Wang S, Li L, Zhou K, Zheng Y, Liu Z. An Integrated Analysis of Network Pharmacology, Molecular Docking, and Experiment Validation to Explore the New Candidate Active Component and Mechanism of Cuscutae Semen-Mori Fructus Coupled-Herbs in Treating Oligoasthenozoospermia. Drug Des Devel Ther 2021; 15:2059-2089. [PMID: 34040346 PMCID: PMC8139735 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s307015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE One of the most common types of male infertility is recognized as oligoasthenozoospermia (OA), characterized by low sperm count and quality in males. As a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Cuscutae Semen-Mori Fructus coupled-herbs (CSMFCH) has been known to act a curative effect on OA for thousands of years. Nevertheless, the substantial basis and molecular mechanism of CSMFCH in treating OA remain elusive. METHODS Herein, an integrated approach, including network pharmacology, molecular docking, and experiment validation, was utilized to reveal the new candidate active component and mechanism of CSMFCH in treating OA. RESULTS The results show that kaempferol is the most significant bioactive component of CSMFCH on OA. The mechanism and targets of CSMFCH against OA are relevant to hormone regulation, oxidant stress, and reproductive promotion. In order to validate network pharmacology results, molecular docking and experiment validation were conducted. In detail, molecular docking was employed to verify the strong binding interactions between kaempferol and the core targets. UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap-MS was used to identify kaempferol in the CSMFCH extract. In vitro and in vivo experiments further proved CSMFCH and kaempferol could enhance the mouse Leydig (TM3) and mouse Sertoli (TM4) cell viability, improve the male reproductive organ weights, sperm quality, and decrease testis tissue damage in the OA mouse model induced by CP. CONCLUSION Our results not only identify the new candidate active component of CSMFCH in treating OA but also provide new insights into the mechanisms of CSMFCH against OA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xue Bai
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yibo Tang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qiang Li
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Dan Liu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Guimin Liu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaolei Fan
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhejun Liu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shujun Yu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Tian Tang
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shuyan Wang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lingru Li
- National Institute of TCM Constitution and Preventive Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Kailin Zhou
- School of Humanities, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yanfei Zheng
- National Institute of TCM Constitution and Preventive Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhenquan Liu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
- National Institute of TCM Constitution and Preventive Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Bai X, Tang Y, Li Q, Chen Y, Liu D, Liu G, Fan X, Ma R, Wang S, Li L, Zhou K, Zheng Y, Liu Z. Network pharmacology integrated molecular docking reveals the bioactive components and potential targets of Morinda officinalis-Lycium barbarum coupled-herbs against oligoasthenozoospermia. Sci Rep 2021; 11:2220. [PMID: 33500463 PMCID: PMC7838196 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-80780-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Oligoasthenozoospermia (OA) is one of the most common types of male infertility affecting sperm count and sperm motility. Unfortunately, it is difficult for existing drugs to fundamentally improve the sperm quality of OA patients, because the pathological mechanism of OA has not been fully elucidated yet. Morinda officinalis-Lycium barbarum coupled-herbs (MOLBCH), as traditional Chinese Medicines, has been widely used for treating OA over thousands of years, but its molecular mechanism is still unclear. For this purpose, we adopted a comprehensive approach integrated network pharmacology and molecular docking to reveal the bioactive components and potential targets of MOLBCH against OA. The results showed that MOLBCH alleviated apoptosis, promoted male reproductive function, and reduced oxidant stress in the treatment of OA. Ohioensin-A, quercetin, beta-sitosterol and sitosterol were the key bioactive components. Androgen receptor (AR), Estrogen receptor (ESR1), Mitogen-activated protein kinase 3 (MAPK3), RAC-alpha serine/threonine-protein kinase (AKT1), Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) were the core potential targets. PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, prostate cancer, AGE-RAGE signaling pathway in diabetic complications were the most representative pathways. Moreover, molecular docking was performed to validate the strong binding interactions between the obtained core components and targets. These observations provide deeper insight into the pathogenesis of OA and can be used to design new drugs and develop new therapeutic instructions to treat OA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xue Bai
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Yibo Tang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Qiang Li
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Yafei Chen
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Dan Liu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Guimin Liu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Xiaolei Fan
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Ru Ma
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Shuyan Wang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Lingru Li
- National Institute of TCM Constitution and Preventive Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Kailin Zhou
- School of Humanities, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Yanfei Zheng
- National Institute of TCM Constitution and Preventive Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China.
| | - Zhenquan Liu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China.
- National Institute of TCM Constitution and Preventive Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Guan S, Zhu Y, Wang J, Dong L, Zhao Q, Wang L, Wang B, Li H. A combination of Semen Cuscutae and Fructus Lycii improves testicular cell proliferation and inhibits their apoptosis in rats with spermatogenic dysfunction by regulating the SCF/c-kit--PI3K--Bcl-2 pathway. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2020; 251:112525. [PMID: 31904495 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2019.112525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2019] [Revised: 08/26/2019] [Accepted: 12/25/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Semen Cuscutae is the seed of Cuscuta japonica Choisy, and Fructus Lycii is the mature fruit of Lycium barbarum L. (Solanaceae). Semen Cuscutae and Fructus Lycii (SC-FL) are well-known Chinese medicine which have been used to tonify the kidney and replenish the essence for thousands of years. Chinese physicians prefer to prescribe them for treating male infertility. Recent studies have found that SC-FL repair spermatogenic dysfunction, however, the therapeutic mechanism has yet to be clearly elucidated. AIM OF THE STUDY This study aimed at evaluating the therapeutic effect of SC-FL in glucosides of Tripterygium wilfordii Hook. f (GTW)-induced dyszoospermia rats and elucidating the underlying molecular mechanism. MATERIALS AND METHODS Seventy-eight Sprague-Dauley (SD) rats were randomly divided into five groups: normal control (treated with saline), GTW (treated with saline), GTW + levocarnitine (treated with levocarnitine), GTW + SCFL (treated with SC-FL), and LY (LY294002, the PI3K inhibitor) +SCFL (treated with SC-FL). GTW (40 mg/kg/d) was intragastrically administered for 4 weeks to establish dyszoospermia model. From the start of the study, LY was additionally injected into the tail vein of rats of the LY + SCFL group once a week. After 8 weeks, semen quality and organ coefficient were determined and sex hormone, inhibin B, and epididymal carnitine levels were measured. Testicular tissue and its ultrastructure were observed using H&E (hematoxylin-eosin) staining and electron microscopy. Immunohistochemistry, western blotting, and quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) were used to determine the protein and mRNA expression of SCF, c-kit, PI3K, p-Akt, Bad, Bcl-2, and Bax in rat testis. RESULTS Compared with the GTW group, semen quality, the organ coefficient, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), prolactin (PRL), and epididymal carnitine levels were significantly improved in the GTW + SCFL group (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01). Histomorphology and testicular ultrastructural evaluation showed that in the GTW + SCFL group, the structure and arrangement of seminiferous tubules were better, the amount of spermatogenic cells increased significantly, the morphology of spermatogenic cells improved, and the mitochondria increased, compared to those in the GTW group. Immunohistochemistry, western blotting, and qRT-PCR results showed that compared with the GTW group, the expression of SCF, c-kit, PI3K, p-Akt, and Bcl-2 in the GTW + SCFL group was increased, while that of Bax and Bad was decreased. The expression of p-Akt and Bcl-2 decreased, while that of Bad and Bax increased in the LY + SCFL group compared with the SCFL group. CONCLUSION SC-FL can effectively inhibit spermatogenic cell apoptosis and promote their proliferation, and the mechanism may be related to the regulation of the SCF/c-kit--PI3K--Bcl-2 pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Siqi Guan
- First Clinical Medical College, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China; TCM Department, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100026, China.
| | - Yutian Zhu
- Urology Department, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China.
| | - Jingshang Wang
- TCM Department, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100026, China.
| | - Lei Dong
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China.
| | - Qi Zhao
- First Clinical Medical College, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China.
| | - Lu Wang
- First Clinical Medical College, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China.
| | - Bin Wang
- First Clinical Medical College, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China; Andrology Department, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100700, China.
| | - Haisong Li
- First Clinical Medical College, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China; Andrology Department, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100700, China.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
System Prediction and Validation of TCM for Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Treatment from the Perspective of Low-Toxicity Chemotherapy: A Stilbene α-Viniferin Has a Proapoptotic Effect on K562 Cells via the Mitochondrial Pathway. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2020; 2020:1986962. [PMID: 32104190 PMCID: PMC7035520 DOI: 10.1155/2020/1986962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2019] [Accepted: 01/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Objective In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) has been attributed to “poisoned bone marrow,” which is viewed as a loss of Qi or blood, a deficiency in Yin or Yang that causes a complex imbalance between cell growth and death. Malignant myeloid progenitor cells display excessive growth that is difficult to control without toxicity. More than 60 herbs in TCM have shown efficacy against CML. However, the key molecules and mechanisms involved in the holistic-level characterization, as well as the effective target associations, are still unknown. Methods The present study employed a computational approach with filtering potential compounds via admetSAR, systems biology-based functional data prediction, and biochemical and molecular biological validation. Results We generated 118 bioactive compounds from 11 herbs within four dialectical therapy groups that are most commonly used to treat CML and predicted 141 potential targets. The stilbene resveratrol and its derivatives were found to be highly related to these targets. Among them, α-viniferin was predicted to target Bcl-2, caspase-3, 8, and 9, MAPK14, CDK2, HSP90AA1, and others, reflecting CML therapeutic strategies. In vitro, experimental data showed a nonnecrotic growth limitation of K562 cells caused by α-viniferin was predicted to target Bcl-2, caspase-3, 8, and 9, MAPK14, CDK2, HSP90AA1, and others, reflecting CML therapeutic strategies. μg·mL−1 at 24 h. Finally, we validated the chemotherapeutic effect of α-viniferin was predicted to target Bcl-2, caspase-3, 8, and 9, MAPK14, CDK2, HSP90AA1, and others, reflecting CML therapeutic strategies. Conclusions Our work sheds light on the mechanism of the efficacy of the stilbene α-viniferin in TCM for the prevention of CML. This work also predicts and validates targets in the mitochondrial signaling pathway, providing a novel strategy for CML treatment.α-viniferin was predicted to target Bcl-2, caspase-3, 8, and 9, MAPK14, CDK2, HSP90AA1, and others, reflecting CML therapeutic strategies.
Collapse
|
13
|
Effect of Jiawei Fengshining on Synovial Cell Apoptosis and TGF- β1/Smad Signaling Pathway in Rats with Rheumatoid Arthritis. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2020; 2019:8614034. [PMID: 31929822 PMCID: PMC6942847 DOI: 10.1155/2019/8614034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2019] [Revised: 11/28/2019] [Accepted: 11/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Background/Aims Jiawei Fengshining (JWFSN) is a new formula originated from Fengshining, a classic formula for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The mechanism of JWFSN in the treatment of RA is still unclear. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of JWFSN formula on the inflammatory mediator levels in the serum and the TGF-β1/Smad pathway in the synovium and to explore the underlying mechanisms of JWFSN formula to ameliorate synovial hyperplasia and apoptosis inhibition of synovium in rats with RA. Method SPF female Wistar rats were randomly divided into 6 groups: the blank control group, the model control group, the positive drug group, and the low-, medium-, and high- dose JWFSN groups, with 8 rats in each group. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to detect inflammatory mediators, anti-inflammatory mediators, and rheumatoid factor (RF). The pathological condition and apoptosis of the synovial tissue were detected by hematoxylin and eosin (HE) and TUNEL staining, respectively. TGF-β1, p-Smad2, p-Smad3, and Smad7 protein expressions in synovial tissue were measured by western blot assay. In addition, human rheumatoid arthritis fibroblast-like synoviocytes cell line MH7A was treated with 20% JWFSN-containing serum to obtain in vitro data. Result The administration of JWFSN was found to ameliorate synovial hyperplasia and promote apoptosis; increase the serum contents of anti-inflammatory mediators; reduce inflammatory mediators and RF contents; and inhibit the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway in CIA rats. In vitro JWFSN treatment increased the apoptosis of MH7A cells and decreased cell viability. Additionally, JWFSN treatment inhibited the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway in MH7A cells. Interestingly, kartogenin (TGF-β1/Smad pathway activator) treament reversed the effects of JWFSN treatment. Conclusion JWFSN may ameliorate inflammatory factors' abnormality, synovial hyperplasia, and apoptosis inhibition of synovium via the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway.
Collapse
|