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Macrì R, Maiuolo J, Scarano F, Musolino V, Fregola A, Gliozzi M, Carresi C, Nucera S, Serra M, Caminiti R, Cardamone A, Coppoletta AR, Ussia S, Ritorto G, Mazza V, Bombardelli E, Palma E, Muscoli C, Mollace V. Evaluation of the Potential Beneficial Effects of Ferula communis L. Extract Supplementation in Postmenopausal Discomfort. Nutrients 2024; 16:2651. [PMID: 39203788 PMCID: PMC11357168 DOI: 10.3390/nu16162651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2024] [Revised: 08/05/2024] [Accepted: 08/08/2024] [Indexed: 09/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Peri-menopausal discomfort can have a detrimental effect on the physical health of women due to physiological and behavioral changes. Estrogen and progesterone-based hormone therapy can alleviate menopausal symptoms, but estrogen supplementation may have negative health effects. The effectiveness of hormone replacement therapy using natural compounds for peri-menopausal disorders is still uncertain. Evidence from in vivo experiments indicates that Ferula L. extract in ovariectomized rats leads to better sexual behavior. The effect seems to be linked to the phytoestrogenic properties of ferutinin, the primary bioactive compound in the extract. The purpose of this study was to assess the clinical impact of Ferula communis L. extract (titrated at 20% ferutinin, and given at doses of 100 mg/die for 90 days) on the quality of life of 64 menopausal women. The clinical trial was randomized, double-blind, and placebo controlled. Our data showed that Ferula communis L. extract reduced by 67 + 9% all symptoms associated to postmenopausal discomfort and enhanced significantly sexual behavior. In addition, the supplement led to a significant improvement of BMI and oxidative stress decrease in the women who received it, while also keeping platelet aggregation within normal levels. Overall, these results could point to the potential use of supplementation with Ferula communis L. extract to revert or mitigate menopause dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Macrì
- Pharmacology Laboratory, Institute of Research for Food Safety and Health IRC-FSH, Department of Health Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (F.S.); (A.F.); (M.G.); (S.N.); (M.S.); (R.C.); (A.C.); (A.R.C.); (S.U.); (G.R.); (V.M.); (E.B.); (C.M.)
| | - Jessica Maiuolo
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biology, IRC-FSH Department of Health Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (J.M.); (V.M.)
| | - Federica Scarano
- Pharmacology Laboratory, Institute of Research for Food Safety and Health IRC-FSH, Department of Health Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (F.S.); (A.F.); (M.G.); (S.N.); (M.S.); (R.C.); (A.C.); (A.R.C.); (S.U.); (G.R.); (V.M.); (E.B.); (C.M.)
| | - Vincenzo Musolino
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biology, IRC-FSH Department of Health Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (J.M.); (V.M.)
| | - Annalisa Fregola
- Pharmacology Laboratory, Institute of Research for Food Safety and Health IRC-FSH, Department of Health Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (F.S.); (A.F.); (M.G.); (S.N.); (M.S.); (R.C.); (A.C.); (A.R.C.); (S.U.); (G.R.); (V.M.); (E.B.); (C.M.)
| | - Micaela Gliozzi
- Pharmacology Laboratory, Institute of Research for Food Safety and Health IRC-FSH, Department of Health Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (F.S.); (A.F.); (M.G.); (S.N.); (M.S.); (R.C.); (A.C.); (A.R.C.); (S.U.); (G.R.); (V.M.); (E.B.); (C.M.)
| | - Cristina Carresi
- Veterinary Pharmacology Laboratory, Institute of Research for Food Safety and Health IRC-FSH, Department of Health Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (C.C.); (E.P.)
| | - Saverio Nucera
- Pharmacology Laboratory, Institute of Research for Food Safety and Health IRC-FSH, Department of Health Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (F.S.); (A.F.); (M.G.); (S.N.); (M.S.); (R.C.); (A.C.); (A.R.C.); (S.U.); (G.R.); (V.M.); (E.B.); (C.M.)
| | - Maria Serra
- Pharmacology Laboratory, Institute of Research for Food Safety and Health IRC-FSH, Department of Health Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (F.S.); (A.F.); (M.G.); (S.N.); (M.S.); (R.C.); (A.C.); (A.R.C.); (S.U.); (G.R.); (V.M.); (E.B.); (C.M.)
| | - Rosamaria Caminiti
- Pharmacology Laboratory, Institute of Research for Food Safety and Health IRC-FSH, Department of Health Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (F.S.); (A.F.); (M.G.); (S.N.); (M.S.); (R.C.); (A.C.); (A.R.C.); (S.U.); (G.R.); (V.M.); (E.B.); (C.M.)
| | - Antonio Cardamone
- Pharmacology Laboratory, Institute of Research for Food Safety and Health IRC-FSH, Department of Health Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (F.S.); (A.F.); (M.G.); (S.N.); (M.S.); (R.C.); (A.C.); (A.R.C.); (S.U.); (G.R.); (V.M.); (E.B.); (C.M.)
| | - Anna Rita Coppoletta
- Pharmacology Laboratory, Institute of Research for Food Safety and Health IRC-FSH, Department of Health Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (F.S.); (A.F.); (M.G.); (S.N.); (M.S.); (R.C.); (A.C.); (A.R.C.); (S.U.); (G.R.); (V.M.); (E.B.); (C.M.)
| | - Sara Ussia
- Pharmacology Laboratory, Institute of Research for Food Safety and Health IRC-FSH, Department of Health Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (F.S.); (A.F.); (M.G.); (S.N.); (M.S.); (R.C.); (A.C.); (A.R.C.); (S.U.); (G.R.); (V.M.); (E.B.); (C.M.)
| | - Giovanna Ritorto
- Pharmacology Laboratory, Institute of Research for Food Safety and Health IRC-FSH, Department of Health Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (F.S.); (A.F.); (M.G.); (S.N.); (M.S.); (R.C.); (A.C.); (A.R.C.); (S.U.); (G.R.); (V.M.); (E.B.); (C.M.)
| | - Valeria Mazza
- Pharmacology Laboratory, Institute of Research for Food Safety and Health IRC-FSH, Department of Health Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (F.S.); (A.F.); (M.G.); (S.N.); (M.S.); (R.C.); (A.C.); (A.R.C.); (S.U.); (G.R.); (V.M.); (E.B.); (C.M.)
| | - Ezio Bombardelli
- Pharmacology Laboratory, Institute of Research for Food Safety and Health IRC-FSH, Department of Health Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (F.S.); (A.F.); (M.G.); (S.N.); (M.S.); (R.C.); (A.C.); (A.R.C.); (S.U.); (G.R.); (V.M.); (E.B.); (C.M.)
| | - Ernesto Palma
- Veterinary Pharmacology Laboratory, Institute of Research for Food Safety and Health IRC-FSH, Department of Health Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (C.C.); (E.P.)
| | - Carolina Muscoli
- Pharmacology Laboratory, Institute of Research for Food Safety and Health IRC-FSH, Department of Health Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (F.S.); (A.F.); (M.G.); (S.N.); (M.S.); (R.C.); (A.C.); (A.R.C.); (S.U.); (G.R.); (V.M.); (E.B.); (C.M.)
| | - Vincenzo Mollace
- Pharmacology Laboratory, Institute of Research for Food Safety and Health IRC-FSH, Department of Health Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (F.S.); (A.F.); (M.G.); (S.N.); (M.S.); (R.C.); (A.C.); (A.R.C.); (S.U.); (G.R.); (V.M.); (E.B.); (C.M.)
- Renato Dulbecco Institute, 88046 Lamezia Terme, Italy
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Su C, Zhang R, Zhang X, Lv M, Liu X, Ao K, Hao J, Mu YL. Dingkun Pill modulate ovarian function in chemotherapy-induced premature ovarian insufficiency mice by regulating PTEN/PI3K/AKT/FOXO3a signaling pathway. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023:116703. [PMID: 37257704 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Dingkun Pill (DKP) is a traditional Chinese medicine that has been shown to have beneficial effects on reproductive function. However, the specific mechanism underlying its effect on POI is not well understood. AIM OF THE STUDY To investigate the effect of different doses of Dingkun Pill on ovarian function in cyclophosphamide (CTX)-induced premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) mice and to explore its molecular mechanism through PTEN/PI3K/AKT/FOXO3a signaling pathway. This study will provide valuable insights into the potential clinical application of Dingkun Pill for the treatment of POI. MATERIALS AND METHODS Fifty female ICR mice were randomly divided into normal control (NC) group, model control (MC) group, and Dingkun Pill low, medium, high dose (DKP-L, M, H) groups. Mice were injected with CTX to construct the POI model. Mice in the DKP-L, M, and H groups were given 0.9 g/kg, 1.8 g/kg, and 3.6 g/kg of Dingkun Pill suspension for 21 days, respectively. Mice in the NC and MC groups were given the same amount of normal saline by gavage. Changes in body weight, estrous cycle and gonadal index were observed in each group of mice. Serum levels of FSH, LH, E2 and AMH were detected by ELISA. Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining observed the changes of ovarian pathological morphology and follicle counts at all levels. qRT-PCR was used to measure the levels of the PTEN and FOXO3a genes in ovarian tissue. The expression of PTEN/PI3K/AKT/FOXO3a signaling pathway related proteins were detected by Western-blot and immunohistochemistry(IHC). RESULTS In POI mice, Dingkun Pill increased body weight, promoted the recovery of estrous cycle, increased ovarian index, and improved pathological morphology of the ovaries. The FSH level decreased in the medium dose group (P < 0.05), the LH level reduced significantly in the medium and high dose groups (P < 0.01), and the E2 level in the high dose group increased (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in AMH levels across all dose groups. The number of growing follicles improved at all levels in the low and medium dose groups, but declined significantly in the high dose group. However, the number of corpus luteum increased significantly in the high dose group (P < 0.001), and the atretic follicles in the three dose groups decreased. Results from qRT-PCR, Western-blot and IHC showed that the moderate dose of Dingkun Pill suppressed the levels of the p-PI3K and p-AKT proteins by upregulating the expression of PTEN in the ovarian tissues of POI mice, thereby inhibiting the expression of the key protein p-FOXO3a. However, the inhibitory effect of the higher dose may be less than that of the lower and intermediate dose groups. CONCLUSIONS The Dingkun Pill modulated hormonal levels, promoted follicle growth and induced ovulation in mice with CTX-induced POI, with better results in the low and moderate dose groups. Its mechanism may be related to the regulation of the PTEN/PI3K/AKT/FOXO3a signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chan Su
- Department of Gynecology, Provincial Hospital, Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, 250098, China; The Second Clinical Medical College of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250013, China
| | - Ruihong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education, Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China
| | - Xiujuan Zhang
- Department of Gynecology, Provincial Hospital, Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, 250098, China
| | - Mengxiao Lv
- Department of Gynecology, Provincial Hospital, Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, 250098, China
| | - Xiang Liu
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250013, China
| | - Kai Ao
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250013, China
| | - Jing Hao
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education, Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China.
| | - Yu-Lan Mu
- Department of Gynecology, Provincial Hospital, Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, 250098, China.
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Li Q, Zhang Q, Liu Y, Zhao S, Zhang B, Xie B. Efficacy of Yiqi Yangyin Jiedu decoction in postoperative patients with thyroid cancer: A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis. Medicine (Baltimore) 2022; 101:e31803. [PMID: 36550799 PMCID: PMC9771259 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000031803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is no evidence-based data to confirm the efficacy of Yiqi Yangyin Jiedu Decoction (YYJD) in postoperative thyroid cancer patients. Therefore, in order to provide new evidence-based medical evidence for clinical treatment, we used this protocol to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the efficacy and safety of YYJD in postoperative patients with thyroid cancer. METHODS This systematic review and meta-analysis has been prospectively registered in the PROSPERO (No. CRD42022365826). Six databases, including Medicine, Embase, Cochrane, CNKI, Wan Fang, and VIP, will be searched from their inception to February 1, 2023. Clinical controlled studies investigating the efficacy and safety of YYJD in patients after thyroid cancer surgery will all be considered for inclusion. The primary outcomes are tumor recurrence rate and overall survival. The secondary outcomes include treatment-related adverse effects, length of hospital stay, and patient satisfaction. All data will be analyzed using R version 3.4.3 to calculate pooled standardized mean differences for outcomes. Data that can not be retrieved will be interpreted from graphs using digital ruler software. RESULTS The results of this paper will fill a gap in the literature regarding this project. CONCLUSION We assume that the YYJD has a positive effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiao Li
- Department of Endocrinology, Southern Branch of Guang’anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Qiuju Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology, Southern Branch of Guang’anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yili Liu
- Department of Ultrasonography, Southern Branch of Guang’anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Shan Zhao
- Department of Surgery, Southern Branch of Guang’anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Department of Spleenogastridae, Southern Branch of Guang’anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Bingxin Xie
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Southern Branch of Guang’anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- * Correspondence: Bingxin Xie, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Southern Branch of Guang’anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 102600, China (e-mail: )
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Ferula communis L. (Apiaceae) Root Acetone-Water Extract: Phytochemical Analysis, Cytotoxicity and In Vitro Evaluation of Estrogenic Properties. PLANTS 2022; 11:plants11151905. [PMID: 35893609 PMCID: PMC9329896 DOI: 10.3390/plants11151905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Ferula communis L. (F. communis) belongs to the Apiaceae family and is a herbaceous plant with various pharmaceutical properties, due to the different contents of bioactive compounds extracted mainly from its roots, as well as its leaves and rhizome. To date, this plant extract has demonstrated estrogenic, anti-inflammatory, antiproliferative, cytotoxic, antimicrobial and anti-neoplastic properties. Its estrogenic activity is justified by the presence of ferutinin, an ester of a sesquiterpenic alcohol that acts as an agonist for estrogen receptors, with a chemical formula equal to C22H3O4. The component present in F. communis responsible for the toxicity of the plant is ferulenol, a prenylated coumarin with the chemical formula C24H30O3. This compound is capable of inducing mortality via its strong anti-coagulant properties, leading to a lethal hemorrhagic syndrome, ferulosis, in animals that feed on a chemotype of F. communis containing a high amount of ferulenol. The removal of the component ferulenol makes extracts of Ferula non-toxic. In fact, the remaining prenylated coumarins are not present in concentrations sufficient to induce toxicity. The intake of high concentrations of the extract of this plant leads a double dose-dependent effect that is typical of sesquiterpenes such as ferutinin. Here, we assessed the cytotoxicity and the estrogenic properties of the F. communis phytocomplex obtained through extraction using a mixture of acetone and water. Among the active constituents of F. communis, the identification of ferutinin and ferulenol was performed using HPLC. The effects of the extract were evaluated, following the removal of ferulenol, on three cell lines: human breast cancer MCF-7, human cervical cancer HeLa and human osteoblastic sarcoma Saos-2. The choice of these cell lines was justified by the need to mimic certain processes which may occur in vivo and which are estrogen-dependent. The obtained results demonstrated that F. communis extract, in addition to possessing an estrogenic-like property, showed a dose-dependent effect. Low concentrations (0.1–0.8 μM) demonstrated a hyperproliferative effect, whereas higher concentrations (1.6–50 μM) were toxic. Therefore, this extract could be an excellent candidate to make up for a reduction or lack of estrogen.
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Lacouture A, Lafront C, Peillex C, Pelletier M, Audet-Walsh É. Impacts of endocrine-disrupting chemicals on prostate function and cancer. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 204:112085. [PMID: 34562481 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2021.112085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Revised: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Because of their historical mode of action, endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are associated with sex-steroid receptors, namely the two estrogen receptors (ERα and ERβ) and the androgen receptor (AR). Broadly, EDCs can modulate sex-steroid receptor functions. They can also indirectly impact the androgen and estrogen pathways by influencing steroidogenesis, expression of AR or ERs, and their respective activity as transcription factors. Additionally, many of these chemicals have multiple cellular targets other than sex-steroid receptors, which results in a myriad of potential effects in humans. The current article reviews the association between prostate cancer and the endocrine-disrupting functions of four prominent EDC families: bisphenols, phthalates, phytoestrogens, and mycoestrogens. Results from both in vitro and in vivo models are included and discussed to better assess the molecular mechanisms by which EDCs can modify prostate biology. To overcome the heterogeneity of results published, we established common guidelines to properly study EDCs in the context of endocrine diseases. Firstly, the expression of sex-steroid receptors in the models used must be determined before testing. Then, in parallel to EDCs, pharmacological compounds acting as positive (agonists) and negative controls (antagonists) have to be employed. Finally, EDCs need to be used in a precise range of concentrations to modulate sex-steroid receptors and avoid off-target effects. By adequately integrating molecular endocrinology aspects in EDC studies and identifying their underlying molecular mechanisms, we will truly understand their impact on prostate cancer and distinguish those that favor the progression of the disease from those that slow down tumor development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurélie Lacouture
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Laval University, Québec, Canada; Endocrinology - Nephrology Research Axis, CHU de Québec-Université Laval Research Center, Québec, Canada; Cancer Research Center (CRC), Laval University, Québec, Canada
| | - Camille Lafront
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Laval University, Québec, Canada; Endocrinology - Nephrology Research Axis, CHU de Québec-Université Laval Research Center, Québec, Canada; Cancer Research Center (CRC), Laval University, Québec, Canada
| | - Cindy Peillex
- Infectious and Immune Diseases Research Axis, CHU de Québec-Université Laval Research Center, Québec, Canada; ARThrite Research Center, Laval University, Québec, Canada; Master de Biologie, École Normale Supérieure de Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon I, Université de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Martin Pelletier
- Infectious and Immune Diseases Research Axis, CHU de Québec-Université Laval Research Center, Québec, Canada; ARThrite Research Center, Laval University, Québec, Canada; Department of Microbiology-Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Laval University, Québec, Canada.
| | - Étienne Audet-Walsh
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Laval University, Québec, Canada; Endocrinology - Nephrology Research Axis, CHU de Québec-Université Laval Research Center, Québec, Canada; Cancer Research Center (CRC), Laval University, Québec, Canada.
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Hyperin Alleviates Triptolide-Induced Ovarian Granulosa Cell Injury by Regulating AKT/TSC1/mTORC1 Signaling. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2021; 2021:9399261. [PMID: 34707679 PMCID: PMC8545507 DOI: 10.1155/2021/9399261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is characterized by the loss of ovarian function before 40 years of age and affects approximately 1% of women worldwide. Caragana sinica is a traditional Miao (a Chinese ethnic minority) medicine that improves ovarian function and follicular development. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the effect of active ingredients of C. sinica on POI and determine underlying mechanisms. Herein, the chemical composition of the C. sinica compound was analyzed using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography, which identified hyperin (HR) as one of the main ingredients in C. sinica. Then, interaction targets of HR and POI were predicted and analyzed using network pharmacology and bioinformatics. The effect of HR on triptolide (TP)-induced granulosa cell injury was evaluated, and the underlying mechanism was explored based on bioinformatic results. A total of 100 interaction targets for POI and HR were obtained. The protein-protein interaction network of identified interaction targets emphasized the topological importance of AKT1. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis revealed that HR might regulate POI by modulating the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway. In addition, the KEGG graph of the mTOR signaling pathway revealed that AKT phosphorylation inhibits the TSC1/2, while TSC1/2 activation inhibits the expression of mTORC1. The fundamental experiment revealed that HR increased proliferation, progesterone receptor levels, and estradiol levels decreased by TP in KGN cells. Additionally, HR alleviated TP-induced apoptosis and G1/G1 phase arrest in KGN cells. Western blotting demonstrated that HR increased the phosphorylation of AKT and mTORC1 and decreased TSC1 expression in TP-induced KGN cells. Collectively, our findings revealed that HR alleviates TP-induced granulosa cell injury by regulating AKT/TSC1/mTORC1 signaling, providing insight into the treatment of POI.
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Macrì R, Musolino V, Gliozzi M, Carresi C, Maiuolo J, Nucera S, Scicchitano M, Bosco F, Scarano F, Ruga S, Zito MC, Guarnieri L, Bombardelli E, Mollace V. Ferula L. Plant Extracts and Dose-Dependent Activity of Natural Sesquiterpene Ferutinin: From Antioxidant Potential to Cytotoxic Effects. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25235768. [PMID: 33297504 PMCID: PMC7731292 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25235768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The employment studies of natural extracts in the prevention and treatment of several diseases highlighted the role of different species of genus Ferula L., belonging to the Apiaceae family, dicotyledonous plants present in many temperate zones of our planet. Ferula communis L. is the main source of sesquiterpene ferutinin, a bioactive compound studied both in vitro and in vivo, because of different effects, such as phytoestrogenic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, but also antiproliferative and cytotoxic activity, performed in a dose-dependent and cell-dependent way. The present review will focus on the molecular mechanisms involved in the different activities of Ferutinin, starting from its antioxidant potential at low doses until its ionophoric property and the subsequent mitochondrial dysfunction induced through administration of high doses, which represent the key point of its anticancer action. Furthermore, we will summarize the data acquired from some experimental studies on different cell types and on several diseases. The results obtained showed an important antioxidant and phytoestrogenic regulation with lack of typical side effects related to estrogenic therapy. The preferential cell death induction for tumor cell lines suggests that ferutinin may have anti-neoplastic properties, and may be used as an antiproliferative and cytotoxic agent in an estrogen dependent and independent manner. Nevertheless, more data are needed to clearly understand the effect of ferutinin in animals before using it as a phytoestrogen or anticancer drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Macrì
- Institute of Research for Food Safety & Health IRC-FSH, University Magna Graecia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (M.G.); (C.C.); (J.M.); (S.N.); (M.S.); (F.B.); (F.S.); (S.R.); (M.C.Z.); (L.G.); (V.M.)
- Correspondence: (R.M.); (V.M.); Tel./Fax: +39-0961-3694301 (R.M. & V.M.)
| | - Vincenzo Musolino
- Institute of Research for Food Safety & Health IRC-FSH, University Magna Graecia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (M.G.); (C.C.); (J.M.); (S.N.); (M.S.); (F.B.); (F.S.); (S.R.); (M.C.Z.); (L.G.); (V.M.)
- Correspondence: (R.M.); (V.M.); Tel./Fax: +39-0961-3694301 (R.M. & V.M.)
| | - Micaela Gliozzi
- Institute of Research for Food Safety & Health IRC-FSH, University Magna Graecia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (M.G.); (C.C.); (J.M.); (S.N.); (M.S.); (F.B.); (F.S.); (S.R.); (M.C.Z.); (L.G.); (V.M.)
| | - Cristina Carresi
- Institute of Research for Food Safety & Health IRC-FSH, University Magna Graecia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (M.G.); (C.C.); (J.M.); (S.N.); (M.S.); (F.B.); (F.S.); (S.R.); (M.C.Z.); (L.G.); (V.M.)
| | - Jessica Maiuolo
- Institute of Research for Food Safety & Health IRC-FSH, University Magna Graecia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (M.G.); (C.C.); (J.M.); (S.N.); (M.S.); (F.B.); (F.S.); (S.R.); (M.C.Z.); (L.G.); (V.M.)
| | - Saverio Nucera
- Institute of Research for Food Safety & Health IRC-FSH, University Magna Graecia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (M.G.); (C.C.); (J.M.); (S.N.); (M.S.); (F.B.); (F.S.); (S.R.); (M.C.Z.); (L.G.); (V.M.)
| | - Miriam Scicchitano
- Institute of Research for Food Safety & Health IRC-FSH, University Magna Graecia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (M.G.); (C.C.); (J.M.); (S.N.); (M.S.); (F.B.); (F.S.); (S.R.); (M.C.Z.); (L.G.); (V.M.)
| | - Francesca Bosco
- Institute of Research for Food Safety & Health IRC-FSH, University Magna Graecia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (M.G.); (C.C.); (J.M.); (S.N.); (M.S.); (F.B.); (F.S.); (S.R.); (M.C.Z.); (L.G.); (V.M.)
| | - Federica Scarano
- Institute of Research for Food Safety & Health IRC-FSH, University Magna Graecia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (M.G.); (C.C.); (J.M.); (S.N.); (M.S.); (F.B.); (F.S.); (S.R.); (M.C.Z.); (L.G.); (V.M.)
| | - Stefano Ruga
- Institute of Research for Food Safety & Health IRC-FSH, University Magna Graecia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (M.G.); (C.C.); (J.M.); (S.N.); (M.S.); (F.B.); (F.S.); (S.R.); (M.C.Z.); (L.G.); (V.M.)
| | - Maria Caterina Zito
- Institute of Research for Food Safety & Health IRC-FSH, University Magna Graecia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (M.G.); (C.C.); (J.M.); (S.N.); (M.S.); (F.B.); (F.S.); (S.R.); (M.C.Z.); (L.G.); (V.M.)
| | - Lorenza Guarnieri
- Institute of Research for Food Safety & Health IRC-FSH, University Magna Graecia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (M.G.); (C.C.); (J.M.); (S.N.); (M.S.); (F.B.); (F.S.); (S.R.); (M.C.Z.); (L.G.); (V.M.)
| | - Ezio Bombardelli
- Nutramed S.c.a.r.l., Complesso Ninì Barbieri, Roccelletta di Borgia, 88021 Catanzaro, Italy;
| | - Vincenzo Mollace
- Institute of Research for Food Safety & Health IRC-FSH, University Magna Graecia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (M.G.); (C.C.); (J.M.); (S.N.); (M.S.); (F.B.); (F.S.); (S.R.); (M.C.Z.); (L.G.); (V.M.)
- Nutramed S.c.a.r.l., Complesso Ninì Barbieri, Roccelletta di Borgia, 88021 Catanzaro, Italy;
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Huang L, Wang L, Bao H, Xu Y, Meng M, Qiao M, Wang H, Kong S. Traditional Chinese medicine Dingkun Pill facilitates uterine receptivity for implantation in mice†. Biol Reprod 2020; 101:695-703. [PMID: 31347662 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2019] [Revised: 06/26/2019] [Accepted: 07/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Dingkun Pill (DK) is one of the representative traditional Chinese medicines, which has been used in the treatment of gynecological diseases for hundreds of years. Accumulative observations and evidence have shown the beneficial effects of DK, including enhancing the function of hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis. However, the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. In this study, the effects of DK on uterine receptivity and implantation were explored by a series of studies with different mouse models. The results showed that DK can advance the time of implantation by influencing the expression of estrogen target genes to facilitate embryo implantation. DK was efficient to activate embryo implantation at the presence of suboptimal estrogen in delayed implantation mouse model. Our further study revealed that the improvement of DK on receptivity establishment is attributed to the differential regulation of DK on implantation-associated genes. This study provides previously unappreciated molecular mechanism of DK in embryo implantation and benefits the potential clinical application of DK in human reproduction improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Huang
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, People's Republic of China.,Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Lemeng Wang
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, People's Republic of China.,Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Haili Bao
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, People's Republic of China.,Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Yingchun Xu
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, People's Republic of China.,Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Meiqing Meng
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, People's Republic of China.,Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Manting Qiao
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, People's Republic of China.,Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Haibin Wang
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, People's Republic of China.,Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuangbo Kong
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, People's Republic of China.,Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, People's Republic of China
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9
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Wang Q, Huang H, Zhao N, Ni X, Udelsman R, Zhang Y. Phytoestrogens and Thyroid Cancer Risk: A Population-Based Case-Control Study in Connecticut. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2019; 29:500-508. [PMID: 31826911 DOI: 10.1158/1055-9965.epi-19-0456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2019] [Revised: 07/28/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Very few previous studies have examined the relationship between thyroid cancer risk and intake of phytoestrogens (PE); furthermore, these studies have reached inconsistent results. METHODS We analyzed data from a population-based case-control study in Connecticut from 2010 to 2011, including 387 histologically confirmed thyroid cancer cases and 433 population-based controls, with compound data available concerning specific PEs. Multivariate unconditional logistic regression models were used to estimate the associations between specific PEs and the risk of thyroid cancer, adjusting for potential confounders. RESULTS An elevated risk of thyroid cancer was associated with moderate to high levels of coumestrol intake [OR = 2.48, 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.39-4.43 for 40-80 μg/day; OR = 2.41, 95% CI, 1.32-4.40 for 80-130 μg/day; and OR = 2.38, 95% CI, 1.26-4.50 for >200 μg/day compared with <40 μg/day], and the main elevation in risk appeared among microcarcinomas (≤1 cm). A decreased risk of papillary macrocarcinomas (>1 cm; OR = 0.26, 95% CI, 0.08-0.85 for 1,860-3,110 μg/day compared with <760 μg/day) was associated with moderate genistein intake among women. CONCLUSIONS Our study suggests that high coumestrol intake increases the risk of thyroid cancer, especially microcarcinomas, whereas moderate amounts of genistein intake appear to be protective for females with thyroid macrocarcinomas. IMPACT The study highlights the importance of distinguishing between microcarcinomas and macrocarcinomas in future research on the etiology of thyroid cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Wang
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York.,Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Yale School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Huang Huang
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Yale School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Nan Zhao
- Central Laboratory, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xin Ni
- Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Robert Udelsman
- Endocrine Neoplasm Institute, Miami Cancer Institute, Miami, Florida
| | - Yawei Zhang
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Yale School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut. .,Department of Surgery, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut
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10
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Yuan H, Xiao L, Min W, Yuan W, Lu S, Huang G. Bu-Shen-Tong-Luo decoction prevents bone loss via inhibition of bone resorption and enhancement of angiogenesis in ovariectomy-induced osteoporosis of rats. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2018; 220:228-238. [PMID: 29317302 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2018.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2017] [Revised: 01/01/2018] [Accepted: 01/04/2018] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Gathering three ancient formulas, traditional Chinese medicine Bu-Shen-Tong-Luo decoction (BSTLD) has been used to treat postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMO) at the Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine for decades. However, the effect of BSTLD on angiogenesis and bone resorption as well as its possible mechanism are still unknown. AIM OF THE STUDY This study was aimed to evaluate the preventive effect of BSTLD on ovariectomy-induced bone loss and vasculature disorder, and to investigate the possible bone protection mechanism of BSTLD in inhibiting bone resorption by enhancing angiogenesis signaling in ovariectomy-induced osteoporosis of rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS The animal experiment was divided into five groups. Rats underwent either sham surgery with intact ovaries (SHAM, n = 10) or bilateral ovariectomy (OVX, n = 40). OVX rats were randomly divided into four groups and gavaged by water (vehicle, 12 mL/kg, n = 10), BSTLD (6 g/kg, n = 10), BSTLD (12 g/kg, n = 10) and 17β-estradiol (E2, 100 μg/kg, n = 10) daily for 12 weeks, respectively. The bone loss and microstructure of the distal femur were observed using micro-computed tomography (μCT). The biomechanical parameters of the femur were detected using three-point bending tests. The distribution of osteoclasts and endothelial cells were analyzed by immunohistochemistry. The mRNA and protein levels of angiogenesis-related hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), as well as osteoclast activation-related signaling calcitonin receptor (CALCR), cathepsin K (CTSK), receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL), osteoprotegerin (OPG), and β-catenin were assayed by RT-PCR or Western blot. RESULTS BSTLD protected trabecular bone mass density and trabecular bone microstructure from ovariectomy-induced osteoporosis in rats. BSTLD significantly reduced mRNA and protein levels of calcitonin receptor and CTSK in femoral metaphysis and inhibited bone resorption in ovariectomized rats. Furthermore, BSTLD stabilized HIF-1α activity and subsequently increased VEGF expression to enhance angiogenesis and modulated RANKL/OPG signaling in this animal model. CONCLUSIONS These results demonstrated that BSTLD reduced osteoclasts activation and bone resorption in ovariectomy-induced osteoporosis. Bone protection by BSTLD may be associated with its stimulation of HIF-1α/VEGF angiogenesis signaling and suppression of RANKL/OPG ratio. This study may provide evidence that BSTLD treats postmenopausal osteoporosis, especially with micro-circulation complication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Yuan
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Linyan Xiao
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Wen Min
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Wenchao Yuan
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Shengfeng Lu
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Medicine Research of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Guicheng Huang
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, Jiangsu Province, China.
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11
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Wen SH, Chang WC, Hong MK, Wu HC. Concurrent use of Chinese herbal medicine among hormone users and its association with ischemic stroke risk: A population-based study. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2018; 216:274-282. [PMID: 29366767 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2018.01.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2017] [Revised: 12/11/2017] [Accepted: 01/17/2018] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Previous studies had indicated that hormone therapy (HT) may increase the risk of ischemic stroke (IS) in menopausal women. However, little is known about the benefits and risks of use of Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) in conditions related to hormone use. The aim of this study is to explore the risk of IS in menopausal women treated with HT and CHM. MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 32,441 menopausal women without surgical menopause aged 40-65 years were selected from 2003 to 2010 using the 2-million random samples of the National Health Insurance Research Database in Taiwan. According to the medication usage of HT and CHM, we divided the current and recent users into two groups: an HT use-only group (n = 4989) and an HT/CHM group (n = 9265). Propensity-score matching samples (4079 pairs) were further created to deal with confounding by indication. The adjusted hazard ratios (HR) of IS were estimated by the robust Cox proportional hazards model. RESULTS The incidence rate of IS in the HT/CHM group was significantly lower than in the HT group (4.5 vs. 12.8 per 1000 person-year, p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis results indicated that additional CHM use had a lower risk of IS compared to the HT group (HR = 0.3; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.21-0.43). Further subgroup analyses and sensitivity analyses had similar findings. CONCLUSION We found that combined use of HT and CHM was associated with a lower risk of IS. Further study is needed to examine possible mechanism underlying this association.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu-Hui Wen
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Chuan Chang
- Department of Medical Research, Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Mun-Kun Hong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Buddhist Tzu Chi General Hospital, Hualien, Taiwan; Institute of Medical Sciences, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Hsien-Chang Wu
- Division of Chinese Gynecology and Pediatrics, Taipei Tzu Chi Hospital, The Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, New Taipei City, Taiwan; School of Post-baccalaureate Chinese Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan.
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12
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Wang Z, Kanda S, Shimono T, Enkh-Undraa D, Nishiyama T. The in vitro estrogenic activity of the crude drugs found in Japanese herbal medicines prescribed for menopausal syndrome was enhanced by combining them. Altern Ther Health Med 2018; 18:107. [PMID: 29566679 PMCID: PMC5865359 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-018-2170-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2017] [Accepted: 03/15/2018] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Japanese herbal medicines can be used as alternatives to estrogen therapy and are sometimes prescribed for menopausal syndrome because they have fewer side effects and are associated with better compliance than estrogen therapy, but little is known about the pharmacological mechanisms of such treatments. This study aimed to explore the mechanisms responsible for the estrogen-like effects of five widely prescribed Japanese herbal medicines (unkeito, kamishoyosan, nyoshinsan, keishibukuryogan, and tokishakuyakusan). METHODS We evaluated the estrogenic activity of these five Japanese herbal medicines and their metabolites using an estrogen receptor (ER)-dependent cell proliferation bioassay and an ER-dependent reporter assay. We also investigated the estrogenic activity of the crude drugs within the medicines and attempted to detect inter-crude drug synergistic effects using the ER-dependent reporter assay. RESULTS We found that unkeito, kamishoyosan, and nyoshinsan exhibited estrogenic activity, and they displayed stronger estrogenic activity after being metabolized. Then, we focused on investigating the estrogenic activity of the crude drugs present within unkeito. We found that glycyrrhizae radix, cinnamomi cortex, evodiae fructus, and zingiberis rhizoma demonstrated ERβ-dependent estrogenic activity. The combined use of evodiae fructus and glycyrrhizae radix, or evodiae fructus and cinnamomi cortex produced synergistic ERβ-dependent estrogenic activity. CONCLUSION It was suggested that unkeito, kamishoyosan, and nyoshinsan exert estrogenic activity, and hence, might be useful for treating menopausal syndrome. Furthermore, synergistic estrogenic effects were detected between some of the crude drugs present within unkeito.
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13
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Paterni I, Granchi C, Minutolo F. Risks and benefits related to alimentary exposure to xenoestrogens. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2018; 57:3384-3404. [PMID: 26744831 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2015.1126547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Xenoestrogens are widely diffused in the environment and in food, thus a large portion of human population worldwide is exposed to them. Among alimentary xenoestrogens, phytoestrogens (PhyEs) are increasingly being consumed because of their potential health benefits, although there are also important risks associated to their ingestion. Furthermore, other xenoestrogens that may be present in food are represented by other chemicals possessing estrogenic activities, that are commonly defined as endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs). EDCs pose a serious health concern since they may cause a wide range of health problems, starting from pre-birth till adult lifelong exposure. We herein provide an overview of the main classes of xenoestrogens, which are classified on the basis of their origin, their structures and their occurrence in the food chain. Furthermore, their either beneficial or toxic effects on human health are discussed in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Paterni
- a Dipartimento di Farmacia , Università di Pisa , Pisa , Italy
| | | | - Filippo Minutolo
- a Dipartimento di Farmacia , Università di Pisa , Pisa , Italy.,b Centro Interdipartimentale di Ricerca "Nutraceutica e Alimentazione per la Salute," Università di Pisa , Pisa , Italy
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Kiyama R. Estrogenic Potentials of Traditional Chinese Medicine. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF CHINESE MEDICINE 2017; 45:1365-1399. [DOI: 10.1142/s0192415x17500756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Estrogen, a steroid hormone, is associated with several human activities, including environmental, industrial, agricultural, pharmaceutical and medical fields. In this review paper, estrogenic activity associated with traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) is discussed first by focusing on the assays needed to detect estrogenic activity (animal test, cell assay, ligand-binding assay, protein assay, reporter-gene assay, transcription assay and yeast two-hybrid assay), and then, their sources, the nature of activities (estrogenic or anti-estrogenic, or other types), and pathways/functions, along with the assay used to detect the activity, which is followed by a summary of effective chemicals found in or associated with TCM. Applications of estrogens in TCM are then discussed by a comprehensive search of the literature, which include basic study/pathway analysis, cell functions, diseases/symptoms and medicine/supplements. Discrepancies and conflicting cases about estrogenicity of TCM among assays or between TCM and their effective chemicals, are focused on to enlarge estrogenic potentials of TCM by referring to omic knowledge such as transcriptome, proteome, glycome, chemome, cellome, ligandome, interactome and effectome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryoiti Kiyama
- Department of Life Science, Faculty of Life Science, Kyushu Sangyo University, Fukuoka, Japan
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15
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Rietjens IMCM, Louisse J, Beekmann K. The potential health effects of dietary phytoestrogens. Br J Pharmacol 2017; 174:1263-1280. [PMID: 27723080 PMCID: PMC5429336 DOI: 10.1111/bph.13622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 282] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2016] [Revised: 08/04/2016] [Accepted: 09/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Phytoestrogens are plant-derived dietary compounds with structural similarity to 17-β-oestradiol (E2), the primary female sex hormone. This structural similarity to E2 enables phytoestrogens to cause (anti)oestrogenic effects by binding to the oestrogen receptors. The aim of the present review is to present a state-of-the-art overview of the potential health effects of dietary phytoestrogens. Various beneficial health effects have been ascribed to phytoestrogens, such as a lowered risk of menopausal symptoms like hot flushes and osteoporosis, lowered risks of cardiovascular disease, obesity, metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes, brain function disorders, breast cancer, prostate cancer, bowel cancer and other cancers. In contrast to these beneficial health claims, the (anti)oestrogenic properties of phytoestrogens have also raised concerns since they might act as endocrine disruptors, indicating a potential to cause adverse health effects. The literature overview presented in this paper illustrates that several potential health benefits of phytoestrogens have been reported but that, given the data on potential adverse health effects, the current evidence on these beneficial health effects is not so obvious that they clearly outweigh the possible health risks. Furthermore, the data currently available are not sufficient to support a more refined (semi) quantitative risk-benefit analysis. This implies that a definite conclusion on possible beneficial health effects of phytoestrogens cannot be made. LINKED ARTICLES This article is part of a themed section on Principles of Pharmacological Research of Nutraceuticals. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v174.11/issuetoc.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jochem Louisse
- Division of ToxicologyWageningen UniversityWageningenThe Netherlands
| | - Karsten Beekmann
- Division of ToxicologyWageningen UniversityWageningenThe Netherlands
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Zhang JM, Li J, Liu EW, Wang H, Fan GW, Wang YF, Zhu Y, Ma SW, Gao XM. Danshen enhanced the estrogenic effects of Qing E formula in ovariectomized rats. BMC COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2016; 16:181. [PMID: 27339619 PMCID: PMC4918020 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-016-1146-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2015] [Accepted: 05/27/2016] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Menopause is characterized by a decrease in life quality due to the appearance of uncomfortable symptoms. Nowadays, Understanding menopause-associated pathophysiology and developing new strategies to improve the treatment of menopausal-associated symptoms is an important issue. Our study was to evaluate the synergistic effects of Danshen (salvia miltiorrhiza bunge) and the phytoestrogenic effects of 3 modified Qing E formulas, to explore a better formula for menopausal disorders. METHODS 100 rats were randomized into 5 groups: Sham (Sham operation group), OVX (model group of ovariectomized rat), BDL (group with low concentration of Qing E Formula), BDH (group with high concentration of Qing E Formula) and BDD (group with high concentration of Qing E Formula Plus Danshen), receiving vehicle and extract of different modified Qing E formula respectively. The food intake, body weight, uterus weight, blood levels of triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC) and cholesterol fractions were assessed. The mammary glands and uterus were morphologically analyzed. The bone density of tibias were measured by peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT). Additionally, luciferase induction assays were performed in Hela cells with the mixtures derived from Qing E formula plus Danshen (BDD). RESULTS Qing E formula plus Danshen significantly increased the uterus wet weight, enhanced the thickness of uterine wall, endometrial epithelium and glandular epithelium, improved trabecular bone and total density evidently, reduced the levels of low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and TG, possessed notable estrogen receptor beta (ERβ) and estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) agonist activity. CONCLUSION Qing E formula plus Danshen exerted more evident estrogen-like effects, thus it has a potential therapeutic use to treat menopausal disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian-Mei Zhang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 300193, People's Republic of China
| | - Jin Li
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 312 Anshan xi Road, Tianjin, 300193, People's Republic of China
| | - Er-Wei Liu
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 312 Anshan xi Road, Tianjin, 300193, People's Republic of China
| | - Hong Wang
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 312 Anshan xi Road, Tianjin, 300193, People's Republic of China
| | - Guan-Wei Fan
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 312 Anshan xi Road, Tianjin, 300193, People's Republic of China
| | - Yue-Fei Wang
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 312 Anshan xi Road, Tianjin, 300193, People's Republic of China
| | - Yan Zhu
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 312 Anshan xi Road, Tianjin, 300193, People's Republic of China
| | - Shang-Wei Ma
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 312 Anshan xi Road, Tianjin, 300193, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiu-Mei Gao
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 312 Anshan xi Road, Tianjin, 300193, People's Republic of China.
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