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Kim S, Shin SJ, Nam Y, Park YH, Kim BH, Park HH, Kumar V, Yoo DH, Lee YY, Hoe HS, Moon M. Korean red ginseng polysaccharide as a potential therapeutic agent targeting tau pathology in Alzheimer's disease. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 263:130516. [PMID: 38423419 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.130516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Tau is a microtubule-associated protein that plays a critical role in the stabilization and modulation of neuronal axons. Tau pathology is stronger associated with cognitive decline in patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) than amyloid beta (Aβ) pathology. Hence, tau targeting is a promising approach for the treatment of AD. Previous studies have demonstrated that the non-saponin fraction with rich polysaccharide (NFP) from Korean red ginseng (KRG) can modulate tau aggregation and exert a therapeutic effect on AD. Therefore, we investigated the efficacy of NFP isolated from KRG on tau pathology in experimental models of AD. Our results showed that NFP from KRG ameliorated deposition and hyperphosphorylation of tau in the brain of 3xTg mice. Moreover, NFP from KRG modulated the aggregation and dissociation of tau K18 in vitro. We demonstrated the alleviatory effects of NFP from KRG on hyperphosphorylated tau and tau kinase in okadaic acid-treated HT22 cells. Furthermore, NFP from KRG mitigated Aβ deposition, neurodegeneration, and neuroinflammation in 3xTg mice. We revealed the neuroprotective effects of NFP from KRG on tau-induced neuronal loss in HT22 cells. Our results indicate that NFP extracted from KRG is a novel therapeutic agent for the treatment of AD associated with tau pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sujin Kim
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Konyang University, 158, Gwanjeodong-ro, Seo-gu, Daejeon 35365, Republic of Korea; Research Institute for Dementia Science, Konyang University, 158, Gwanjeodong-ro, Seo-gu, Daejeon 35365, Republic of Korea
| | - Soo Jung Shin
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Konyang University, 158, Gwanjeodong-ro, Seo-gu, Daejeon 35365, Republic of Korea
| | - Yunkwon Nam
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Konyang University, 158, Gwanjeodong-ro, Seo-gu, Daejeon 35365, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong Ho Park
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Konyang University, 158, Gwanjeodong-ro, Seo-gu, Daejeon 35365, Republic of Korea
| | - Byeong-Hyeon Kim
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Konyang University, 158, Gwanjeodong-ro, Seo-gu, Daejeon 35365, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Ha Park
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Konyang University, 158, Gwanjeodong-ro, Seo-gu, Daejeon 35365, Republic of Korea
| | - Vijay Kumar
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Konyang University, 158, Gwanjeodong-ro, Seo-gu, Daejeon 35365, Republic of Korea
| | - Doo-Han Yoo
- Research Institute for Dementia Science, Konyang University, 158, Gwanjeodong-ro, Seo-gu, Daejeon 35365, Republic of Korea; Department of Occupational Therapy, Konyang University, 158, Gwanjeodong-ro, Seo-gu, Daejeon 35365, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong Yook Lee
- The Korean Ginseng Research Institute, Korea Ginseng Corporation, Gajeong-ro 30, Shinseong-dong, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34128, Republic of Korea.
| | - Hyang-Sook Hoe
- Department of Neural Development and Disease, Korea Brain Research Institute (KBRI), 61, Cheomdan-ro, Dong-gu 41068, Republic of Korea; Department of Brain & Cognitive Sciences, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science & Technology (DGIST), Daegu 42988, Republic of Korea.
| | - Minho Moon
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Konyang University, 158, Gwanjeodong-ro, Seo-gu, Daejeon 35365, Republic of Korea; Research Institute for Dementia Science, Konyang University, 158, Gwanjeodong-ro, Seo-gu, Daejeon 35365, Republic of Korea.
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Akhtar A, Singh S, Kaushik R, Awasthi R, Behl T. Types of memory, dementia, Alzheimer's disease, and their various pathological cascades as targets for potential pharmacological drugs. Ageing Res Rev 2024; 96:102289. [PMID: 38582379 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2024.102289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2023] [Revised: 03/30/2024] [Accepted: 03/30/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common type of dementia accounting for 90% of cases; however, frontotemporal dementia, vascular dementia, etc. prevails only in a minority of populations. The term dementia is defined as loss of memory which further takes several other categories of memories like working memory, spatial memory, fear memory, and long-term, and short-term memory into consideration. In this review, these memories have critically been elaborated based on context, duration, events, appearance, intensity, etc. The most important part and purpose of the review is the various pathological cascades as well as molecular levels of targets of AD, which have extracellular amyloid plaques and intracellular hyperphosphorylated tau protein as major disease hallmarks. There is another phenomenon that either leads to or arises from the above-mentioned hallmarks, such as oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, neuroinflammation, cholinergic dysfunction, and insulin resistance. Several potential drugs like antioxidants, anti-inflammatory drugs, acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, insulin mimetics or sensitizers, etc. studied in various previous preclinical or clinical reports were put as having the capacity to act on these pathological targets. Additionally, agents directly or indirectly targeting amyloid and tau were also discussed. This could be further investigated in future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ansab Akhtar
- Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Neuroscience Center of Excellence, School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA.
| | - Siddharth Singh
- School of Health Sciences & Technology, UPES University, Bidholi, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248007, India
| | - Ravinder Kaushik
- School of Health Sciences & Technology, UPES University, Bidholi, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248007, India
| | - Rajendra Awasthi
- School of Health Sciences & Technology, UPES University, Bidholi, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248007, India
| | - Tapan Behl
- Amity School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Amity University, Mohali, Punjab 140306, India
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Nam Y, Prajapati R, Kim S, Shin SJ, Cheong DY, Park YH, Park HH, Lim D, Yoon Y, Lee G, Jung HA, Park I, Kim DH, Choi JS, Moon M. Dual regulatory effects of neferine on amyloid-β and tau aggregation studied by in silico, in vitro, and lab-on-a-chip technology. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 172:116226. [PMID: 38301421 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116226] [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: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by the presence of two critical pathogenic factors: amyloid-β (Aβ) and tau. Aβ and tau become neurotoxic aggregates via self-assembly, and these aggregates contribute to the pathogenesis of AD. Therefore, there has been growing interest in therapeutic strategies that simultaneously target Aβ and tau aggregates. Although neferine has attracted attention as a suitable candidate agent for alleviating AD pathology, there has been no study investigating whether neferine affects the modulation of Aβ or tau aggregation/dissociation. Herein, we investigated the dual regulatory effects of neferine on Aβ and tau aggregation/dissociation. We predicted the binding characteristics of neferine to Aβ and tau using molecular docking simulations. Next, thioflavin T and atomic force microscope analyses were used to evaluate the effects of neferine on the aggregation or dissociation of Aβ42 and tau K18. We verified the effect of neferine on Aβ fibril degradation using a microfluidic device. In addition, molecular dynamics simulation was used to predict a conformational change in the Aβ42-neferine complex. Moreover, we examined the neuroprotective effect of neferine against neurotoxicity induced by Aβ and tau and their fibrils in HT22 cells. Finally, we foresaw the pharmacokinetic properties of neferine. These results demonstrated that neferine, which has attracted attention as a potential treatment for AD, can directly affect Aβ and tau pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunkwon Nam
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Konyang University, 158, Gwanjeodong-ro, Seo-gu, Daejeon 35365, Republic of Korea
| | - Ritu Prajapati
- Department of Food and Life Science, Pukyong National University, Busan 48513, Republic of Korea
| | - Sujin Kim
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Konyang University, 158, Gwanjeodong-ro, Seo-gu, Daejeon 35365, Republic of Korea; Research Institute for Dementia Science, Konyang University, 158, Gwanjeodong-ro, Seo-gu, Daejeon 35365, Republic of Korea
| | - Soo Jung Shin
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Konyang University, 158, Gwanjeodong-ro, Seo-gu, Daejeon 35365, Republic of Korea
| | - Da Yeon Cheong
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Korea University, Sejong 30019, South Korea; Interdisciplinary Graduate Program for Artificial Intelligence Smart Convergence Technology, Korea University, Sejong 30019, South Korea
| | - Yong Ho Park
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Konyang University, 158, Gwanjeodong-ro, Seo-gu, Daejeon 35365, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Ha Park
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Konyang University, 158, Gwanjeodong-ro, Seo-gu, Daejeon 35365, Republic of Korea
| | - Danyou Lim
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Konyang University, Daejeon 35365, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoojeong Yoon
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Konyang University, Daejeon 35365, Republic of Korea
| | - Gyudo Lee
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Korea University, Sejong 30019, South Korea; Interdisciplinary Graduate Program for Artificial Intelligence Smart Convergence Technology, Korea University, Sejong 30019, South Korea
| | - Hyun Ah Jung
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Chonbuk National University, Jeonju 54896, Republic of Korea
| | - Insu Park
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Konyang University, Daejeon 35365, Republic of Korea.
| | - Dong-Hyun Kim
- Departments of Pharmacology and Advanced Translational Medicine, School of Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jae Sue Choi
- Department of Food and Life Science, Pukyong National University, Busan 48513, Republic of Korea.
| | - Minho Moon
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Konyang University, 158, Gwanjeodong-ro, Seo-gu, Daejeon 35365, Republic of Korea; Research Institute for Dementia Science, Konyang University, 158, Gwanjeodong-ro, Seo-gu, Daejeon 35365, Republic of Korea.
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Lee MY, Kim M. Effects of Red ginseng on neuroinflammation in neurodegenerative diseases. J Ginseng Res 2024; 48:20-30. [PMID: 38223824 PMCID: PMC10785270 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgr.2023.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Red ginseng (RG) is widely used as a herbal medicine. As the human lifespan has increased, numerous diseases have developed, and RG has also been used to treat various diseases. Neurodegenerative diseases are major problems that modern people face through their lives. Neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis are featured by progressive nerve system damage. Recently, neuroinflammation has emerged as a degenerative factor and is an immune response in which cytokines with nerve cells that constitute the nervous system. RG, a natural herbal medicine with fewer side effects than chemically synthesized drugs, is currently in the spotlight. Therefore, we reviewed studies reporting the roles of RG in treating neuroinflammation and neurodegenerative diseases and found that RG might help alleviate neurodegenerative diseases by regulating neuroinflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Yeong Lee
- Department of Chemistry & Life Science, Sahmyook University, Hwarangro 815, Nowongu, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Mikyung Kim
- Department of Chemistry & Life Science, Sahmyook University, Hwarangro 815, Nowongu, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Uimyung Research Institute for Neuroscience, Department of Pharmacy, Sahmyook University, Hwarangro 815, Nowongu, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Tang J, Yousaf M, Wu YP, Li QQ, Xu YQ, Liu DM. Mechanisms and structure-activity relationships of polysaccharides in the intervention of Alzheimer's disease: A review. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 254:127553. [PMID: 37865357 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.127553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a complex neurodegenerative disease. Despite several decades of research, the development of effective treatments and responses for Alzheimer's disease remains elusive. The utilization of polysaccharides for Alzheimer's disease became more popular due to their beneficial characteristics, notably their multi-target activity and low toxicity. This review mainly focuses on the researches of recent 5 years in the regulation of AD by naturally derived polysaccharides, systematically lists the possible intervention pathways of polysaccharides from different mechanisms, and explores the structure-activity relationship between polysaccharide structural activities, so as to provide references for the intervention and treatment of AD by polysaccharides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Tang
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510640, Guangdong, China
| | - Muhammad Yousaf
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510640, Guangdong, China
| | - Ya-Ping Wu
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510640, Guangdong, China
| | - Qin-Qin Li
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510640, Guangdong, China
| | - Yi-Qian Xu
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510640, Guangdong, China
| | - Dong-Mei Liu
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510640, Guangdong, China.
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Kim S, Hyun DG, Nam Y, Shin SJ, Im D, Kim HS, Leem SH, Park HH, Kim BH, Park YH, Cho E, Goddard WA, Kim DH, Kim HI, Moon M. Genipin and pyrogallol: Two natural small molecules targeting the modulation of disordered proteins in Alzheimer's disease. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 168:115770. [PMID: 37865990 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by the aggregation of disordered proteins, such as amyloid beta (Aβ) and tau, leading to neurotoxicity and disease progression. Despite numerous efforts, effective inhibitors of Aβ and tau aggregates have not been developed. Thus, we aimed to screen natural small molecules from crude extracts that target various pathologies and are prescribed for patients with neurological diseases. In this study, we screened 162 natural small molecules prescribed for neurological diseases and identified genipin and pyrogallol as hit compounds capable of simultaneously regulating the aggregation of Aβ and tau K18. Moreover, we confirmed the dual modulatory effects of these compounds on the reduction of amyloid-mediated neurotoxicity in vitro and the disassembly of preformed Aβ42 and tau K18 fibrils. Furthermore, we observed the alleviatory effects of genipin and pyrogallol against AD-related pathologies in triple transgenic AD mice. Molecular dynamics and docking simulations revealed the molecular interaction dynamics of genipin and pyrogallol with Aβ42 and tau K18, providing insights into their suppression of aggregation. Our findings suggest the therapeutic potential of genipin and pyrogallol as dual modulators for the treatment of AD by inhibiting aggregation or promoting dissociation of Aβ and tau.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sujin Kim
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Konyang University, Daejeon 35365, the Republic of Korea; Research Institute for Dementia Science, Konyang University, Daejeon 35365, the Republic of Korea
| | - Da Gyeong Hyun
- Department of Chemistry, Korea University, Seoul 02841, the Republic of Korea; Center for Proteogenome Research, Korea University, Seoul 02841, the Republic of Korea; Single Cell Analysis Laboratory, Korea University, Seoul 02841, the Republic of Korea; Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering and Materials Process and Simulation Center, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, United States
| | - Yunkwon Nam
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Konyang University, Daejeon 35365, the Republic of Korea
| | - Soo Jung Shin
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Konyang University, Daejeon 35365, the Republic of Korea
| | - Dongjoon Im
- Department of Chemistry, Korea University, Seoul 02841, the Republic of Korea; Center for Proteogenome Research, Korea University, Seoul 02841, the Republic of Korea; Single Cell Analysis Laboratory, Korea University, Seoul 02841, the Republic of Korea; Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering and Materials Process and Simulation Center, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, United States
| | - Hyeon Soo Kim
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Konyang University, Daejeon 35365, the Republic of Korea
| | - Seol Hwa Leem
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Konyang University, Daejeon 35365, the Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Ha Park
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Konyang University, Daejeon 35365, the Republic of Korea
| | - Byeong-Hyeon Kim
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Konyang University, Daejeon 35365, the Republic of Korea
| | - Yong Ho Park
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Konyang University, Daejeon 35365, the Republic of Korea
| | - Eunbi Cho
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, the Republic of Korea
| | - William A Goddard
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering and Materials Process and Simulation Center, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, United States
| | - Dong Hyun Kim
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, the Republic of Korea.
| | - Hugh I Kim
- Department of Chemistry, Korea University, Seoul 02841, the Republic of Korea; Center for Proteogenome Research, Korea University, Seoul 02841, the Republic of Korea; Single Cell Analysis Laboratory, Korea University, Seoul 02841, the Republic of Korea; Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering and Materials Process and Simulation Center, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, United States.
| | - Minho Moon
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Konyang University, Daejeon 35365, the Republic of Korea; Research Institute for Dementia Science, Konyang University, Daejeon 35365, the Republic of Korea.
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Moreira J, Machado M, Dias-Teixeira M, Ferraz R, Delerue-Matos C, Grosso C. The neuroprotective effect of traditional Chinese medicinal plants-A critical review. Acta Pharm Sin B 2023; 13:3208-3237. [PMID: 37655317 PMCID: PMC10465969 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2023.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric diseases are increasingly affecting individuals' quality of life, thus increasing their cost to social and health systems. These diseases have overlapping mechanisms, such as oxidative stress, protein aggregation, neuroinflammation, neurotransmission impairment, mitochondrial dysfunction, and excitotoxicity. Currently, there is no cure for neurodegenerative diseases, and the available therapies have adverse effects and low efficacy. For neuropsychiatric disorders, such as depression, the current therapies are not adequate to one-third of the patients, the so-called treatment-resistant patients. So, searching for new treatments is fundamental. Medicinal plants appear as a strong alternative and complement towards new treatment protocols, as they have been used for health purposes for thousands of years. Thus, the main goal of this review is to revisit the neuroprotective potential of some of the most predominant medicinal plants (and one fungus) used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), focusing on their proven mechanisms of action and their chemical compositions, to give clues on how they can be useful against neurodegeneration progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Moreira
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Porto, Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Porto 4249-015, Portugal
| | - Mariana Machado
- Ciências Químicas e das Biomoléculas/CISA, Escola Superior de Saúde—Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Porto 4200-072, Portugal
| | - Mónica Dias-Teixeira
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Porto, Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Porto 4249-015, Portugal
- NICiTeS—Núcleo de Investigação em Ciências e Tecnologias da Saúde, Escola Superior de Saúde Ribeiro Sanches, Lisboa 1950-396, Portugal
| | - Ricardo Ferraz
- Ciências Químicas e das Biomoléculas/CISA, Escola Superior de Saúde—Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Porto 4200-072, Portugal
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, Departamento de Química e Bioquímica Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade do Porto, Porto 4169-007, Portugal
| | - Cristina Delerue-Matos
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Porto, Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Porto 4249-015, Portugal
| | - Clara Grosso
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Porto, Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Porto 4249-015, Portugal
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Zhang R, Zeng M, Zhang X, Zheng Y, Lv N, Wang L, Gan J, Li Y, Jiang X, Yang L. Therapeutic Candidates for Alzheimer's Disease: Saponins. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10505. [PMID: 37445682 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241310505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Drug development for Alzheimer's disease, the leading cause of dementia, has been a long-standing challenge. Saponins, which are steroid or triterpenoid glycosides with various pharmacological activities, have displayed therapeutic potential in treating Alzheimer's disease. In a comprehensive review of the literature from May 2007 to May 2023, we identified 63 references involving 40 different types of saponins that have been studied for their effects on Alzheimer's disease. These studies suggest that saponins have the potential to ameliorate Alzheimer's disease by reducing amyloid beta peptide deposition, inhibiting tau phosphorylation, modulating oxidative stress, reducing inflammation, and antiapoptosis. Most intriguingly, ginsenoside Rg1 and pseudoginsenoside-F11 possess these important pharmacological properties and show the best promise for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. This review provides a summary and classification of common saponins that have been studied for their therapeutic potential in Alzheimer's disease, showcasing their underlying mechanisms. This highlights the promising potential of saponins for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruifeng Zhang
- School of Integrative Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
| | - Miao Zeng
- School of Integrative Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
| | - Xiaolu Zhang
- School of Integrative Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
| | - Yujia Zheng
- School of Integrative Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
| | - Nuan Lv
- School of Integrative Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
| | - Luming Wang
- School of Integrative Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
| | - Jiali Gan
- School of Integrative Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
| | - Yawen Li
- School of Integrative Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
| | - Xijuan Jiang
- School of Integrative Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
| | - Lin Yang
- School of Integrative Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
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9
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Zhang R, Teng L, Zhong Y, Ma P, Xu L, Xiao P. Neuroprotection of isookanin against MPTP-induced cell death of SH-SY5Y cells via BCL2/BAX and PI3K/AKT pathways. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2023:10.1007/s00213-023-06383-x. [PMID: 37256377 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-023-06383-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Isookanin, an important antioxidant component in Coreopsis tinctoria Nutt., has shown remarkable hypolipidemic, hypoglycemic, and hypotensive effects. However, the neuroprotective effect of isookanin has not been reported yet. Here, the neuroprotective effects and relevant molecular mechanisms of isookanin are explored for the first time. METHODS The SH-SY5Y cells were exposed to neurotoxic H2O2, 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP), and Aβ25-35, respectively. Cell viability and apoptosis were evaluated by MTT, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and TUNEL assays. Intercellular ROS and mitochondrial membrane potential were assessed by DCFH-DA and JC-1 assay. Western blot and qRT-PCR were used to explore the perturbed signaling at the gene and protein levels. Molecular docking analysis and in vitro assay were further applied to confirm potential target. RESULTS Among the three in vitro models, isookanin showed the best neuroprotection against MPTP-induced damage. Isookanin attenuated the levels of LDH, intracellular ROS, and mitochondrial membrane potential. Isookanin upregulated phosphorylation of AKT and PI3K, and increased BCL2/BAX ratio. Isookanin possessed a powerful affinity toward AKT. Besides, the protective effects of isookanin disappeared when cells were co-treated with an AKT inhibitor (AZD5363). CONCLUSION Isookanin regulated BCL2/BAX and PI3K/AKT pathways to reduce mitochondrial damage and cellular apoptosis. Isookanin may be a new protector for neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Zhang
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development (IMPLAD), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, No. 151 Malianwa North Road, Haidian District, 100193, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Resources Utilization of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, 100193, Beijing, China
| | - Lili Teng
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development (IMPLAD), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, No. 151 Malianwa North Road, Haidian District, 100193, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Resources Utilization of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, 100193, Beijing, China
| | - Yi Zhong
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development (IMPLAD), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, No. 151 Malianwa North Road, Haidian District, 100193, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Resources Utilization of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, 100193, Beijing, China
| | - Pei Ma
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development (IMPLAD), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, No. 151 Malianwa North Road, Haidian District, 100193, Beijing, China.
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Resources Utilization of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, 100193, Beijing, China.
| | - Lijia Xu
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development (IMPLAD), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, No. 151 Malianwa North Road, Haidian District, 100193, Beijing, China.
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Resources Utilization of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, 100193, Beijing, China.
| | - Peigen Xiao
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development (IMPLAD), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, No. 151 Malianwa North Road, Haidian District, 100193, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Resources Utilization of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, 100193, Beijing, China
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10
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Current trends in natural products for the treatment and management of dementia: Computational to clinical studies. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2023; 147:105106. [PMID: 36828163 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105106] [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: 06/07/2022] [Revised: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
The number of preclinical and clinical studies evaluating natural products-based management of dementia has gradually increased, with an exponential rise in 2020 and 2021. Keeping this in mind, we examined current trends from 2016 to 2021 in order to assess the growth potential of natural products in the treatment of dementia. Publicly available literature was collected from various databases like PubMed and Google Scholar. Oxidative stress-related targets, NF-κB pathway, anti-tau aggregation, anti-AChE, and A-β aggregation were found to be common targets and pathways. A retrospective analysis of 33 antidementia natural compounds identified 125 sustainable resources distributed among 65 families, 39 orders, and 7 classes. We found that families such as Berberidaceae, Zingiberaceae, and Fabaceae, as well as orders such as Lamiales, Sapindales, and Myrtales, appear to be important and should be researched further for antidementia compounds. Moreover, some natural products, such as quercetin, curcumin, icariside II, berberine, and resveratrol, have a wide range of applications. Clinical studies and patents support the importance of dietary supplements and natural products, which we will also discuss. Finally, we conclude with the broad scope, future challenges, and opportunities for field researchers.
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11
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Malík M, Tlustoš P. Nootropic Herbs, Shrubs, and Trees as Potential Cognitive Enhancers. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:plants12061364. [PMID: 36987052 PMCID: PMC10056569 DOI: 10.3390/plants12061364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Plant-based nootropics are a diverse group of natural drugs that can improve cognitive abilities through various physiological mechanisms, especially in cases where these functions are weakened or impaired. In many cases, the nootropics enhance erythrocyte plasticity and inhibit aggregation, which improves the blood's rheological properties and increases its flow to the brain. Many of these formulations possess antioxidant activity that protects brain tissue from neurotoxicity and improves the brain's oxygen supply. They can induce the synthesis of neuronal proteins, nucleic acids, and phospholipids for constructing and repairing neurohormonal membranes. These natural compounds can potentially be present in a great variety of herbs, shrubs, and even some trees and vines. The plant species reviewed here were selected based on the availability of verifiable experimental data and clinical trials investigating potential nootropic effects. Original research articles, relevant animal studies, meta-analyses, systematic reviews, and clinical trials were included in this review. Selected representatives of this heterogeneous group included Bacopa monnieri (L.) Wettst., Centella asiatica (L.) Urban, Eleutherococcus senticosus (Rupr. & Maxim.) Maxim., Ginkgo biloba L., Lepidium meyenii Walp., Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer, Paullinia cupana Kunth, Rhodiola rosea L., Schisandra chinensis (Turcz.) Baill., and Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal. The species are depicted and described, together with their active components and nootropic effects, and evidence of their efficacy is presented. The study provides brief descriptions of the representative species, their occurrence, history, and the chemical composition of the principle medicinal compounds, with uses, indications, experimental treatments, dosages, possible side effects, and contraindications. Most plant nootropics must be taken at optimal doses for extended periods before measurable improvement occurs, but they are generally very well tolerated. Their psychoactive properties are not produced by a single molecule but by a synergistic combination of several compounds. The available data suggest that including extracts from these plants in medicinal products to treat cognitive disorders can have substantial potential therapeutic benefits.
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12
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Ye XW, Li CS, Zhang HX, Li Q, Cheng SQ, Wen J, Wang X, Ren HM, Xia LJ, Wang XX, Xu XF, Li XR. Saponins of ginseng products: a review of their transformation in processing. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1177819. [PMID: 37188270 PMCID: PMC10175582 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1177819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The primary processed product of Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer (P. ginseng) is red ginseng. As technology advances, new products of red ginseng have arisen. Red ginseng products, e.g., traditional red ginseng, sun ginseng, black ginseng, fermented red ginseng, and puffed red ginseng, are commonly used in herbal medicine. Ginsenosides are the major secondary metabolites of P. ginseng. The constituents of P. ginseng are significantly changed during processing, and several pharmacological activities of red ginseng products are dramatically increased compared to white ginseng. In this paper, we aimed to review the ginsenosides and pharmacological activities of various red ginseng products, the transformation law of ginsenosides in processing, and some clinical trials of red ginseng products. This article will help to highlight the diverse pharmacological properties of red ginseng products and aid in the future development of red ginseng industrialization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xian-Wen Ye
- Centre of TCM Processing Research, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Institute of Regulatory Science for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Chun-Shuai Li
- Centre of TCM Processing Research, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Hai-Xia Zhang
- Centre of TCM Processing Research, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Qian Li
- Centre of TCM Processing Research, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Shui-Qing Cheng
- Centre of TCM Processing Research, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Jia Wen
- Centre of TCM Processing Research, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xuan Wang
- Centre of TCM Processing Research, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Hong-Min Ren
- Centre of TCM Processing Research, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Liang-Jing Xia
- Centre of TCM Processing Research, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xu-Xing Wang
- Centre of TCM Processing Research, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xin-Fang Xu
- Centre of TCM Processing Research, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Institute of Regulatory Science for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Xin-Fang Xu, ; Xiang-Ri Li,
| | - Xiang-Ri Li
- Centre of TCM Processing Research, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Xin-Fang Xu, ; Xiang-Ri Li,
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13
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Kim S, Nam Y, Shin SJ, Prajapati R, Shin SM, Kim MJ, soo Kim H, Leem SH, Kim TJ, Park YH, Kim JJ, Choi JS, Moon M. Dual modulators of aggregation and dissociation of amyloid beta and tau: In vitro, in vivo, and in silico studies of Uncaria rhynchophylla and its bioactive components. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 156:113865. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
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14
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Lee HY, Yoon S, Lee JH, Park K, Jung Y, Cho I, Lee D, Shin J, Kim K, Kim S, Kim J, Kim K, Han SH, Kim SM, Kim HJ, Kim HY, Kim I, Kim YS. Aryloxypropanolamine targets amyloid aggregates and reverses Alzheimer-like phenotypes in Alzheimer mouse models. Alzheimers Res Ther 2022; 14:177. [PMID: 36443837 PMCID: PMC9706920 DOI: 10.1186/s13195-022-01112-6] [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: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aggregated amyloid-β (Aβ) is considered a pathogenic initiator of Alzheimer's disease (AD), in strong association with tau hyperphosphorylation, neuroinflammation, synaptic dysfunction, and cognitive decline. As the removal of amyloid burden from AD patient brains by antibodies has shown therapeutic potential, the development of small molecule drugs inducing chemical dissociation and clearance of Aβ is compelling as a therapeutic strategy. In this study, we synthesized and screened aryloxypropanolamine derivatives and identified 1-(3-(2,4-di-tert-pentylphenoxy)-2-hydroxypropyl)pyrrolidin-1-ium chloride, YIAD002, as a strong dissociator of Aβ aggregates. METHODS The dissociative activity of aryloxypropanolamine derivatives against Aβ aggregates were evaluated through in vitro assays. Immunohistochemical staining, immunoblot assays, and the Morris water maze were used to assess the anti-Alzheimer potential in YIAD002-treated 5XFAD and transgenic APP/PS1 mice. Target-ligand interaction mechanism was characterized via a combination of peptide mapping, fluorescence dissociation assays, and constrained docking simulations. RESULTS Among 11 aryloxypropanolamine derivatives, YIAD002 exerted strongest dissociative activity against β-sheet-rich Aβ aggregates. Upon oral administration, YIAD002 substantially reduced amyloid burden and accordingly, improved cognitive performance in the Morris water maze and attenuated major pathological hallmarks of AD including tauopathy, neuroinflammation, and synaptic protein loss. Mechanism studies suggest that YIAD002 interferes with intermolecular β-sheet fibrillation by directly interacting with KLVFFA and IGLMVG domains of Aβ. In addition, YIAD002 was found to possess dissociative activity against aggregates of pyroglutamate-modified Aβ and tau. CONCLUSIONS Collectively, our results evince the potential of chemical-driven dissociation of Aβ aggregates by aryloxypropanolamines as a therapeutic modality of the amyloid clearance approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hee Yang Lee
- Department of Pharmacy and Yonsei Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Yonsei University, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon, 21983, South Korea
| | - Soljee Yoon
- Department of Pharmacy and Yonsei Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Yonsei University, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon, 21983, South Korea.,Department of Integrative Biotechnology & Translational Medicine, Yonsei University, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon, 21983, South Korea
| | - Jeong Hwa Lee
- Department of Pharmacy and Yonsei Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Yonsei University, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon, 21983, South Korea
| | - Keunwan Park
- Natural Product Informatics Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Gangwon-do, 25451, South Korea
| | - Youngeun Jung
- Department of Pharmacy and Yonsei Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Yonsei University, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon, 21983, South Korea
| | - Illhwan Cho
- Department of Pharmacy and Yonsei Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Yonsei University, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon, 21983, South Korea
| | - Donghee Lee
- Department of Pharmacy and Yonsei Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Yonsei University, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon, 21983, South Korea
| | - Jisu Shin
- Department of Pharmacy and Yonsei Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Yonsei University, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon, 21983, South Korea
| | - Kyeonghwan Kim
- Department of Pharmacy and Yonsei Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Yonsei University, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon, 21983, South Korea
| | - Sunmi Kim
- Department of Pharmacy and Yonsei Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Yonsei University, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon, 21983, South Korea
| | - Jimin Kim
- Department of Pharmacy and Yonsei Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Yonsei University, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon, 21983, South Korea
| | - Koeun Kim
- Amyloid Solution, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, 13486, South Korea
| | - Seung Hoon Han
- Amyloid Solution, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, 13486, South Korea
| | - Seong Muk Kim
- Amyloid Solution, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, 13486, South Korea
| | - Hye Ju Kim
- Amyloid Solution, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, 13486, South Korea
| | - Hye Yun Kim
- Department of Pharmacy and Yonsei Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Yonsei University, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon, 21983, South Korea
| | - Ikyon Kim
- Department of Pharmacy and Yonsei Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Yonsei University, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon, 21983, South Korea.
| | - Young Soo Kim
- Department of Pharmacy and Yonsei Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Yonsei University, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon, 21983, South Korea. .,Department of Integrative Biotechnology & Translational Medicine, Yonsei University, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon, 21983, South Korea. .,Amyloid Solution, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, 13486, South Korea.
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15
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By-Product of the Red Ginseng Manufacturing Process as Potential Material for Use as Cosmetics: Chemical Profiling and In Vitro Antioxidant and Whitening Activities. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27238202. [PMID: 36500294 PMCID: PMC9736987 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27238202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 11/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Red ginseng (RG), which is obtained from heated Panax ginseng and is produced by steaming followed by drying, is a valuable herb in Asian countries. Steamed ginseng dew (SGD) is a by-product produced in processing red ginseng. In the present study, phytochemical profiling of extracts of red ginseng and steamed ginseng dew was carried out using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and rapid resolution liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (RRLC-Q-TOF-MS) analysis. Additionally, antioxidant activities (DPPH, ·OH, and ABTS scavenging ability) and whitening activities (tyrosinase and elastase inhibitory activity) were analyzed. Phytochemical profiling revealed the presence of 66 and 28 compounds that were non-saponin components in chloroform extracts of red ginseng and steamed ginseng dew (RG-CE and SGD-CE), respectively. Meanwhile, there were 20 ginsenosides identified in n-butanol extracts of red ginseng and steamed ginseng dew (RG-NBE and SGD-NBE). By comparing the different polar extracts of red ginseng and steamed ginseng dew, it was found that the ethyl acetate extract of red ginseng (RG-EAE) had the best antioxidant capacity and whitening effect, the water extract of steamed ginseng dew (SGD-WE) had stronger antioxidant capacity, and the SGD-NBE and SGD-CE had a better whitening effect. This study shows that RG and SGD have tremendous potential to be used in the cosmetic industries.
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16
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Fišar Z. Linking the Amyloid, Tau, and Mitochondrial Hypotheses of Alzheimer's Disease and Identifying Promising Drug Targets. Biomolecules 2022; 12:1676. [PMID: 36421690 PMCID: PMC9687482 DOI: 10.3390/biom12111676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 10/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Damage or loss of brain cells and impaired neurochemistry, neurogenesis, and synaptic and nonsynaptic plasticity of the brain lead to dementia in neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). Injury to synapses and neurons and accumulation of extracellular amyloid plaques and intracellular neurofibrillary tangles are considered the main morphological and neuropathological features of AD. Age, genetic and epigenetic factors, environmental stressors, and lifestyle contribute to the risk of AD onset and progression. These risk factors are associated with structural and functional changes in the brain, leading to cognitive decline. Biomarkers of AD reflect or cause specific changes in brain function, especially changes in pathways associated with neurotransmission, neuroinflammation, bioenergetics, apoptosis, and oxidative and nitrosative stress. Even in the initial stages, AD is associated with Aβ neurotoxicity, mitochondrial dysfunction, and tau neurotoxicity. The integrative amyloid-tau-mitochondrial hypothesis assumes that the primary cause of AD is the neurotoxicity of Aβ oligomers and tau oligomers, mitochondrial dysfunction, and their mutual synergy. For the development of new efficient AD drugs, targeting the elimination of neurotoxicity, mutual potentiation of effects, and unwanted protein interactions of risk factors and biomarkers (mainly Aβ oligomers, tau oligomers, and mitochondrial dysfunction) in the early stage of the disease seems promising.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zdeněk Fišar
- Department of Psychiatry, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Ke Karlovu 11, 120 00 Prague, Czech Republic
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17
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Afsheen N, Rafique S, Rafeeq H, Irshad K, Hussain A, Huma Z, Kumar V, Bilal M, Aleya L, Iqbal HMN. Neurotoxic effects of environmental contaminants-measurements, mechanistic insight, and environmental relevance. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:70808-70821. [PMID: 36059010 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-22779-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Pollution is a significant and growing concern for any population regardless of age because these environmental contaminants exhibit different neurodegenerative effects on persons of different ages. These environmental contaminants are the products of human welfare projects like industry, automobile exhaust, clinical and research laboratory extrudes, and agricultural chemicals. These contaminants are found in various forms in environmental matrices like nanoparticles, particulate matter, lipophilic vaporized toxicants, and ultrafine particulate matter. Because of their small size, they can easily cross blood-brain barriers or use different cellular mechanisms for assistance. Other than this, these contaminants cause an innate immune response in different cells of the central nervous system and cause neurotoxicity. Considering the above critiques and current needs, this review summarizes different protective strategies based on bioactive compounds present in plants. Various bioactive compounds from medicinal plants with neuroprotective capacities are discussed with relevant examples. Many in vitro studies on clinical trials have shown promising outcomes using plant-based bioactive compounds against neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Afsheen
- Department of Biochemistry, Riphah International University, Faisalabad, 38000, Pakistan
| | - Sadia Rafique
- Department of Pharmacy, Riphah International University, Faisalabad, 38000, Pakistan
| | - Hamza Rafeeq
- Department of Biochemistry, Riphah International University, Faisalabad, 38000, Pakistan
| | - Kanwal Irshad
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Government College University, Faisalabad, 38000, Pakistan
| | - Asim Hussain
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, 38000, Pakistan
| | - Zille Huma
- Department of Chemistry, Riphah International University, Faisalabad, 38000, Pakistan
| | - Vineet Kumar
- Department of Basic and Applied Sciences, School of Engineering and Sciences, GD Goenka University, Sohna Road, Gurugram, Haryana, 122103, India
| | - Muhammad Bilal
- School of Life Science and Food Engineering, Huaiyin Institute of Technology, Huaian, 223003, China
| | - Lotfi Aleya
- Chrono-Environment Laboratory, UMR CNRS 6249, Bourgogne Franche-Comté University, Besançon, France
| | - Hafiz M N Iqbal
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Engineering and Sciences, 64849, Monterrey, Mexico.
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18
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Zhang X, Liu Z, Zhong C, Pu Y, Yang Z, Bao Y. Structure characteristics and immunomodulatory activities of a polysaccharide RGRP-1b from radix ginseng Rubra. Int J Biol Macromol 2021; 189:980-992. [PMID: 34478797 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2021.08.176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Revised: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
The present study was undertaken to explore the structure characteristics, immune regulation, and anti-cancer abilities of polysaccharides in radix ginseng Rubra (RGR). For this purpose, RGR polysaccharides (RGRP) were purified through DEAE and S-300 chromatography. Monosaccharide composition, methylation, and GC-MS analyses, as well as field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM), atomic force microscope (AFM), Fourier-transformed infrared resonance (FT-IR), and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectra, were used to establish the structure of RGRP-1b. Our results revealed that RGRP-1a and RGRP-1b possess different molecular weights (21.3 kDa and 10.2 kDa, respectively). RGRP-1a was found to be composed of glucose, while RGRP-1b was composed of glucose, galactose, and arabinose. The main chain structure of RGRP-1b was composed of 1,4-α-Glcp, with a 1,4,6-α-Glcp branch unit. Its side chains were branched at the O-4 position of 1,4,6-α-Glcp, namely 1)-β-Galp-(4 → 1)-α-Araf-(5 → α-Araf and 1)-β-Galp-(6 → α-Glcp. The changes in the nitric oxide (NO) levels and cytotoxicity revealed that macrophages probably get activated by RGRP-1b. The expressions of IL-6, IL-12, and TNF-α were found to be upregulated after treatment with RGRP-1b. RGRP-1b thus possesses the potential to arrest the growth of Huh7 through immunoregulation. Our cumulative findings indicate that RGRP-1b obtained from radix ginseng Rubra can function as a strong immune modulator.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuyu Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Zijing Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Cheng Zhong
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Youwei Pu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Zhongwei Yang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Yixi Bao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China.
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Quality Distinguish of Red Ginseng from Different Origins by HPLC–ELSD/PDA Combined with HPSEC–MALLS–RID, Focus on the Sugar-Markers. SEPARATIONS 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/separations8110198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Red ginseng (RG) has been extensively utilized in Asian countries due to its pharmacological effects. For the quality evaluation of RG, small molecules, such as ginsenosides, have been widely considered as candidates of its quality markers (Q-markers), and various analytical techniques have been developed in order to identify these compounds. However, despite the efforts to analyze the hydrophobic constituents, it is worth pointing out that about 60% of the mass of RG is made of carbohydrates, including mono-, oligo- and polysaccharides. Consequently, the quality differentiation and identification of RG from the perspective of sugar-markers should be focused. High performance liquid chromatography and evaporative light scattering detector (HPLC–ELSD) method for the determination of disaccharides in RG was established. Furthermore, high performance size exclusion chromatography–multi-angle laser light scattering–refractive index detector (HPSEC–MALLS–RID) for the determination of molecular weight and high performance liquid chromatography photodiode array (HPLC–PDA) for the determination of compositional monosaccharides in RG polysaccharides were also established. HPLC–ELSD/PDA combined with HPSEC–MALLS–RID could be used to determine the contents of disaccharides, molecular weights, and compositional monosaccharides of RG polysaccharides, which could be used for quality control, and this is a new view on the sugar marker to quality differentiation of various origins of RG.
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20
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Dorman G, Flores I, Gutiérrez C, Castaño RF, Aldecoa M, Kim L. Medicinal herbs and nutritional supplements for dementia therapy: potential therapeutic targets and clinical evidence. CNS & NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS-DRUG TARGETS 2021; 21:26-51. [PMID: 34370647 DOI: 10.2174/1871527320666210809121230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2020] [Revised: 02/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Spices and herbs have been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. Also, in the last decades, the use of different nutritional supplements has been implemented to treat all kinds of diseases, including those that present an alteration in cognitive functioning. Dementia is a clinical syndrome in which a person's mental and cognitive capacities gradually decline. As the disease progresses, the person's autonomy diminishes. As there is not an effective treatment to prevent progressive deterioration in many of these pathologies, nutritional interventions have been, and still are, one of the most widely explored therapeutic possibilities. In this review, we have discussed a great number of potentially interesting plants, nutritional derivatives and probiotics for the treatment of dementia around the world. Their action mechanisms generally involve neuroprotective effects via anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-apoptotic, b-amyloid and tau anti-aggregate actions; brain blood flow improvement, and effects on synaptic cholinergic and dopaminergic neurotransmission, which may optimize cognitive performance in patients with cognitive impairment. As for their efficacy in patients with cognitive impairment and/or dementias, evidence is still scarce and/or their outcomes are controversial. We consider that many of these substances have promising therapeutic properties. Therefore, the scientific community has to continue with a more complete research focused on both identifying possible action mechanisms and carrying out clinical trials, preferably randomized double-blind ones, with a greater number of patients, a long-term follow-up, dose standardization and the use of current diagnosis criteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guido Dorman
- Division of Neurology, Ramos Mejia Hospital. Argentina
| | - Ignacio Flores
- Neuroscience Institute, Favaloro Foundation Hospital. Argentina
| | | | | | - Mayra Aldecoa
- Division of Neurology, Ramos Mejia Hospital. Argentina
| | - Leandro Kim
- Division of Neurology, Ramos Mejia Hospital. Argentina
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21
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Li J, Huang Q, Chen J, Qi H, Liu J, Chen Z, Zhao D, Wang Z, Li X. Neuroprotective Potentials of Panax Ginseng Against Alzheimer's Disease: A Review of Preclinical and Clinical Evidences. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:688490. [PMID: 34149431 PMCID: PMC8206566 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.688490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD), a neurodegenerative disorder, is a major health concern in the increasingly aged population worldwide. Currently, no clinically effective drug can halt the progression of AD. Panax ginseng C.A. Mey. is a well-known medicinal plant that contains ginsenosides, gintonin, and other components and has neuroprotective effects against a series of pathological cascades in AD, including beta-amyloid formation, neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction. In this review, we summarize the effects and mechanisms of these major components and formulas containing P. ginseng in neuronal cells and animal models. Moreover, clinical findings regarding the prevention and treatment of AD with P. ginseng or its formulas are discussed. This review can provide new insights into the possible use of ginseng in the prevention and treatment of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Li
- Jilin Ginseng Academy, Key Laboratory of Active Substances and Biological Mechanisms of Ginseng Efficacy, Ministry of Education, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Bio-Macromolecules of Chinese Medicine, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Qingxia Huang
- Jilin Ginseng Academy, Key Laboratory of Active Substances and Biological Mechanisms of Ginseng Efficacy, Ministry of Education, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Bio-Macromolecules of Chinese Medicine, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
- Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine, College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Jinjin Chen
- Jilin Ginseng Academy, Key Laboratory of Active Substances and Biological Mechanisms of Ginseng Efficacy, Ministry of Education, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Bio-Macromolecules of Chinese Medicine, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Hongyu Qi
- Jilin Ginseng Academy, Key Laboratory of Active Substances and Biological Mechanisms of Ginseng Efficacy, Ministry of Education, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Bio-Macromolecules of Chinese Medicine, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Jiaqi Liu
- Jilin Ginseng Academy, Key Laboratory of Active Substances and Biological Mechanisms of Ginseng Efficacy, Ministry of Education, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Bio-Macromolecules of Chinese Medicine, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Zhaoqiang Chen
- Jilin Ginseng Academy, Key Laboratory of Active Substances and Biological Mechanisms of Ginseng Efficacy, Ministry of Education, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Bio-Macromolecules of Chinese Medicine, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Daqing Zhao
- Jilin Ginseng Academy, Key Laboratory of Active Substances and Biological Mechanisms of Ginseng Efficacy, Ministry of Education, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Bio-Macromolecules of Chinese Medicine, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Zeyu Wang
- Department of Scientific Research, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Xiangyan Li
- Jilin Ginseng Academy, Key Laboratory of Active Substances and Biological Mechanisms of Ginseng Efficacy, Ministry of Education, Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Bio-Macromolecules of Chinese Medicine, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
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22
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Chen X, Drew J, Berney W, Lei W. Neuroprotective Natural Products for Alzheimer's Disease. Cells 2021; 10:cells10061309. [PMID: 34070275 PMCID: PMC8225186 DOI: 10.3390/cells10061309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the number one neurovegetative disease, but its treatment options are relatively few and ineffective. In efforts to discover new strategies for AD therapy, natural products have aroused interest in the research community and in the pharmaceutical industry for their neuroprotective activity, targeting different pathological mechanisms associated with AD. A wide variety of natural products from different origins have been evaluated preclinically and clinically for their neuroprotective mechanisms in preventing and attenuating the multifactorial pathologies of AD. This review mainly focuses on the possible neuroprotective mechanisms from natural products that may be beneficial in AD treatment and the natural product mixtures or extracts from different sources that have demonstrated neuroprotective activity in preclinical and/or clinical studies. It is believed that natural product mixtures or extracts containing multiple bioactive compounds that can work additively or synergistically to exhibit multiple neuroprotective mechanisms might be an effective approach in AD drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Chen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Campbell University, Buies Creek, NC 27506, USA; (J.D.); (W.B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-910-893-1706
| | - Joshua Drew
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Campbell University, Buies Creek, NC 27506, USA; (J.D.); (W.B.)
| | - Wren Berney
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Campbell University, Buies Creek, NC 27506, USA; (J.D.); (W.B.)
| | - Wei Lei
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Administrative Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Presbyterian College, Clinton, SC 29325, USA;
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23
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Shin SJ, Nam Y, Park YH, Kim MJ, Lee E, Jeon SG, Bae BS, Seo J, Shim SL, Kim JS, Han CK, Kim S, Lee YY, Moon M. Therapeutic effects of non-saponin fraction with rich polysaccharide from Korean red ginseng on aging and Alzheimer's disease. Free Radic Biol Med 2021; 164:233-248. [PMID: 33422674 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2020.12.454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Revised: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Biological aging provokes morbidity and several functional declines, causing older adults more susceptible to a variety of diseases than younger adults. In particular, aging is a major risk factor contributing to non-communicable diseases, such as neurodegenerative disorders. Alzheimer's disease (AD) is an aging-related neurodegenerative disease that is characterized by cognitive deficits and the formation of amyloid plaques formed by the accumulation of amyloid-β (Aβ) peptides. Non-saponin fraction with rich polysaccharide (NFP) from red ginseng, the largest fraction of the components of red ginseng, perform many biological activities. However, it has not been clarified whether the NFP from Korean red ginseng (KRG) has beneficial effects in the aging and AD. First, proteomics analysis was performed in aged brain to identify the effect of NFP on protein changes, and we confirmed that NFP induced changes in proteins related to the neuroprotective- and neurogenic-effects. Next, we investigated (1) the effects of NFP on AD pathologies, such as Aβ deposition, neuroinflammation, neurodegeneration, mitochondrial dysfunction, and impaired adult hippocampal neurogenesis (AHN), in 5XFAD transgenic mouse model of AD using immunostaining; (2) the effect of NFP on Aβ-mediated mitochondrial respiration deficiency in HT22 mouse hippocampal neuronal cells (HT22) using Seahorse XFp analysis; (3) the effect of NFP on cell proliferation using WST-1 analysis; and (4) the effect of NFP on Aβ-induced cognitive dysfunction in 5XFAD mouse model of AD using Y-maze test. Histological analysis indicated that NFP significantly alleviated the accumulation of Aβ, neuroinflammation, neuronal loss, and mitochondrial dysfunction in the subiculum of 5XFAD mouse model of AD. In addition, NFP treatment ameliorated mitochondrial deficits in Aβ-treated HT22 cells. Moreover, NFP treatment significantly increased the AHN and neuritogenesis of neural stem cells in both healthy and AD brains. Furthermore, NFP significantly increased cell proliferation in the HT22 cells. Finally, NFP administration significantly enhanced and restored the cognitive function of healthy and AD mice, respectively. Taken together, NFP treatment demonstrated changes in proteins involved in central nervous system organization/maintenance in aged brain and ameliorates AD pathology. Collectively, our findings suggest that NFP from KRG could be a potential therapeutic candidate for aging and AD treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soo Jung Shin
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Konyang University, 158, Gwanjeodong-ro, Seo-gu, Daejeon, 35365, Republic of Korea
| | - Yunkwon Nam
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Konyang University, 158, Gwanjeodong-ro, Seo-gu, Daejeon, 35365, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong Ho Park
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Konyang University, 158, Gwanjeodong-ro, Seo-gu, Daejeon, 35365, Republic of Korea
| | - Min-Jeong Kim
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Konyang University, 158, Gwanjeodong-ro, Seo-gu, Daejeon, 35365, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunbeen Lee
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Konyang University, 158, Gwanjeodong-ro, Seo-gu, Daejeon, 35365, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong Gak Jeon
- Department of Neural Development and Disease, Korea Brain Research Institute (KBRI), Daegu, 41068, Republic of Korea
| | - Bong-Seok Bae
- The Korean Ginseng Research Institute, Korea Ginseng Corporation, Gajeong-ro 30, Shinseong-dong, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34128, Republic of Korea
| | - Jiho Seo
- The Korean Ginseng Research Institute, Korea Ginseng Corporation, Gajeong-ro 30, Shinseong-dong, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34128, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Lye Shim
- The Korean Ginseng Research Institute, Korea Ginseng Corporation, Gajeong-ro 30, Shinseong-dong, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34128, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong-Seok Kim
- Myunggok Medical Research Institute, College of Medicine, Konyang University, Daejeon, 35365, Republic of Korea
| | - Chang-Kyun Han
- The Korean Ginseng Research Institute, Korea Ginseng Corporation, Gajeong-ro 30, Shinseong-dong, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34128, Republic of Korea
| | - Sujin Kim
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Konyang University, 158, Gwanjeodong-ro, Seo-gu, Daejeon, 35365, Republic of Korea; Research Institute for Dementia Science, Konyang University, Daejeon, 35365, Republic of Korea.
| | - Yong Yook Lee
- The Korean Ginseng Research Institute, Korea Ginseng Corporation, Gajeong-ro 30, Shinseong-dong, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34128, Republic of Korea.
| | - Minho Moon
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Konyang University, 158, Gwanjeodong-ro, Seo-gu, Daejeon, 35365, Republic of Korea; Research Institute for Dementia Science, Konyang University, Daejeon, 35365, Republic of Korea.
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24
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Soeda Y, Takashima A. New Insights Into Drug Discovery Targeting Tau Protein. Front Mol Neurosci 2020; 13:590896. [PMID: 33343298 PMCID: PMC7744460 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2020.590896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Microtubule-associated protein tau is characterized by the fact that it is an intrinsically disordered protein due to its lack of a stable conformation and high flexibility. Intracellular inclusions of fibrillar forms of tau with a β-sheet structure accumulate in the brain of patients with Alzheimer's disease and other tauopathies. Accordingly, detachment of tau from microtubules and transition of tau from a disordered state to an abnormally aggregated state are essential events preceding the onset of tau-related diseases. Many reports have shown that this transition is caused by post-translational modifications, including hyperphosphorylation and acetylation. The misfolded tau is self-assembled and forms a tau oligomer before the appearance of tau inclusions. Animal and pathological studies using human samples have demonstrated that tau oligomer formation contributes to neuronal loss. During the progression of tauopathies, tau seeds are released from cells and incorporated into other cells, leading to the propagation of pathological tau aggregation. Accumulating evidence suggests several potential approaches for blocking tau-mediated toxicity: (1) direct inhibition of pathological tau aggregation and (2) inhibition of tau post-translational modifications that occur prior to pathological tau aggregation, (3) inhibition of tau propagation and (4) stabilization of microtubules. In addition to traditional low-molecular-weight compounds, newer drug discovery approaches such as the development of medium-molecular-weight drugs (peptide- or oligonucleotide-based drugs) and high-molecular-weight drugs (antibody-based drugs) provide alternative pathways to preventing the formation of abnormal tau. Of particular interest are recent studies suggesting that tau droplet formation by liquid-liquid phase separation may be the initial step in aberrant tau aggregation, as well results that implicate roles for tau in dendritic and nuclear functions. Here, we review the mechanisms through which drugs can target tau and consider recent clinical trials for the treatment of tauopathies. In addition, we discuss the utility of these newer strategies and propose future directions for research on tau-targeted therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshiyuki Soeda
- Laboratory for Alzheimer's Disease, Department of Life Science, Faculty of Science, Gakushuin University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Akihiko Takashima
- Laboratory for Alzheimer's Disease, Department of Life Science, Faculty of Science, Gakushuin University, Tokyo, Japan
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