Isolation of anticancer constituents from flos genkwa (Daphne genkwa Sieb.et Zucc.) through bioassay-guided procedures

Daphne genkwa: Ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry and pharmacology of an important traditional Chinese medicine

Daphne genkwa, as a traditional medicine, is widely distributed in China, Korea and Vietnam. In China, the dried flower buds of this plant are named "Yuanhua". It has the ability to effectively promote urination, eliminate phlegm and alleviate cough, eliminate parasites and cure of scabies, with a broad spectrum of pharmacological effects and considerable clinical efficacy. This paper provides a summary and classification of the main chemical constituents of D. genkwa based on a review of relevant domestic and foreign literature. It also outlines the current research status of traditional clinical usage, pharmacological effects, and toxicity of D. genkwa. The aim is to provide a theoretical basis for further study of D. genkwa and its potential new clinical applications.

A new gnidiflavanone-flavonol dimer and other constituents from Gnidia apiculata

A new 3,8''-flavanone-flavonol dimer gnidiflavanone-flavonol (1) and 10 known compounds (2-11), including four rare primula-type flavones 2-5, were isolated from the roots of Gnidia apiculata. Compounds 2-5 and 7 were reported for the first time from the plant family Thymelaeceae. Structures of the isolated compounds were established by spectroscopic data, including 1D and 2D NMR (COSY, HMBC, HSQC and ROESY) and mass spectrometry, as well as by the comparison with literature data. The crude roots extract and isolated compounds were evaluated for antimicrobial and antiplasmodial activities. Among isolated compounds, 6-hydroxyflavone (4) and 6-O-acetylflavone (4a) showed antiplasmodial activity against chloroquine-sensitive (D6) and chloroquine-resistant (W2) strains of Plasmodium falciparum.

Efficient Plant Regeneration System from Leaf Explant Cultures of Daphne genkwa via Somatic Embryogenesis

This study aimed to establish an efficient plant regeneration system from leaf-derived embryogenic structure cultures of Daphne genkwa. To induce embryogenic structures, fully expanded leaf explants of D. genkwa were cultured on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with 0, 0.1, 0.5, 1, 2, and 5 mg·L^-1 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D), respectively. After 8 weeks of incubation, the highest frequency of embryogenic structure formation reached 100% when the leaf explants were cultivated on MS medium supplemented with 0.1 to 1 mg·L^-1 2,4-D. At higher concentrations of 2,4-D (over 2 mg·L^-1 2,4-D), the frequency of embryogenic structure formation significantly declined. Similar to 2,4-D, indole butyric acid (IBA) and α-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) treatments were also able to form embryogenic structures. However, the frequency of embryogenic structure formation was lower than that of 2,4-D. In particular, the yellow embryonic structure (YES) and white embryonic structure (WES) were simultaneously developed from the leaf explants of D. genkwa on culture medium containing 2,4-D, IBA, and NAA, respectively. Embryogenic calluses (ECs) were formed from the YES after subsequent rounds of subculture on MS medium supplemented with 1 mg·L^-1 2,4-D. To regenerate whole plants, the embryogenic callus (EC) and the two embryogenic structures (YES and WES) were transferred onto MS medium supplemented with 0.1 mg·L^-1 6-benzyl aminopurine (BA). The YES had the highest plant regeneration potential via somatic embryo and shoot development compared to the EC and WES. To our knowledge, this is the first successful report of a plant regeneration system via the somatic embryogenesis of D. genkwa. Thus, the embryogenic structures and plant regeneration system of D. genkwa could be applied to mass proliferation and genetic modification for pharmaceutical metabolite production in D. genkwa.

Identification of Daphne genkwa and Its Vinegar-Processed Products by Ultraperformance Liquid Chromatography-Quadrupole Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry and Chemometrics

Crude herbs of Daphne genkwa (CHDG) are often used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat scabies baldness, carbuncles, and chilblain owing to their significant purgation and curative effects. The most common technique for processing DG involves the use of vinegar to reduce the toxicity of CHDG and enhance its clinical efficacy. Vinegar-processed DG (VPDG) is used as an internal medicine to treat chest and abdominal water accumulation, phlegm accumulation, asthma, and constipation, among other diseases. In this study, the changes in the chemical composition of CHDG after vinegar processing and the inner components of the changed curative effects were elucidated using optimized ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF-MS). Untargeted metabolomics, based on multivariate statistical analyses, was also used to profile differences between CHDG and VPDG. Eight marker compounds were identified using orthogonal partial least-squares discrimination analysis, which indicated significant differences between CHDG and VPDG. The concentrations of apigenin-7-O-β-d-methylglucuronate and hydroxygenkwanin were considerably higher in VPDG than those in CHDG, whereas the amounts of caffeic acid, quercetin, tiliroside, naringenin, genkwanines O, and orthobenzoate 2 were significantly lower. The obtained results can indicate the transformation mechanisms of certain changed compounds. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first to employ mass spectrometry to detect the marker components of CHDG and VPDG.

Hydroxygenkwanin suppresses proliferation, invasion and migration of osteosarcoma cells via the miR‑320a/SOX9 axis

Hydroxygenkwanin (HGK) has an anticancer effect in a variety of tumors, but its role in osteosarcoma has not been explored. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the therapeutic effect of HGK on osteosarcoma and its specific molecular mechanism. Osteosarcoma cells (MG-63 and U2OS) treated with various concentrations of HGK were assigned to the treatment group. MTT, clone formation, wound healing and Transwell assays were performed to assess the viability, proliferation, migration, and invasion of MG-63 and U2OS cells. RT-qPCR was conducted to quantify the expression levels of of microRNA (miR)-320a and SRY-box transcription factor 9 (SOX9) in MG-63 and U2OS cells. The binding sites of miR-320a and SOX9 were predicted by starBase database, and verified using the dual-luciferase reporter assay. The expression levels of SOX9 and EMT-related proteins (N-cadherin, E-cadherin and vimentin) were detected by western blot analysis. HGK inhibited cell proliferation, migration, invasion, but promoted the expression of miR-320a in MG-63 and U2OS cells. Downregulation of miR-320a reversed the effects of HGK on proliferation, migration and invasion of MG-63 and U2OS cells, while upregulation of miR-320a had the opposite effect. HGK inhibited the expression of SOX9 by promoting the expression of miR-320a. Upregulation of SOX9 could partially reverse miR-320a-induced migration and invasion of MG-63 and U2OS cells. In addition, upregulation of miR-320a promoted E-cadherin expression and inhibited the expression of N-cadherin and vimentin, and the effect of miR-320a was also reversed by SOX9. In conclusion, HGK inhibited proliferation, migration and invasion of MG-63 and U2OS cells through the miR-320a/SOX9 axis.

Yuanhuacin and Related Anti-Inflammatory and Anticancer Daphnane Diterpenes from Genkwa Flos—An Overview

The dried flower buds of the plant Daphne genkwa Sieb. et Zucc. have been largely used in traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of inflammatory diseases. Numerous diterpenoids have been isolated from the Genkwa Flos (yuanhua in Chinese), including a series of daphnane-type diterpene designated as yuanhuacin (YC, often improperly designated as yuanhuacine) and analogues with a patronymic name. The series includes ten daphnane-type diterpenes: yuanhuacin, yuanhuadin (YD), yuanhuafin (YF), yuanhuagin (YG), yuanhuahin (YH), yuanhuajin (YJ), yuanhualin (YL), yuanhuamin (YM), yuanhuapin (YP), and yuanhuatin (YT). They are distinct from the rare flavonoid yuanhuanin. The series comprises several anticancer agents, such as the lead compound YC, which has revealed potent activity in vitro and in vivo against models of lung and breast cancers. The main signaling pathways implicated in the antitumor effects have been delineated. Protein kinase C is a key factor of activity for YC, but in general the molecular targets at the origin of the activity of these compounds remain little defined. Promising anticancer effects have been reported with analogues YD and YT, whereas compounds YF and YP are considered more toxic. The pharmacological activity of each compound is presented, as well as the properties of Genkwa Flos extracts. The potential toxic effects associated with the use of these compounds are also underlined.

Risk assessment of the inhibition of hydroxygenkwanin on human and rat cytochrome P450 by cocktail method

Hydroxygenkwanin (HGK), a natural flavonoid extracted from the buds of Daphne genkwa Sieb.et Zucc. (Thymelaeaceae), possesses a wide range of pharmacological activities, including anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and anticancer. However, the inhibitory effect of HGK on cytochrome P450 (CYP) remains unclear. This study investigated the potential inhibitory effects of HGK on CYP1A2, 2B1/6, 2C9/11, 2D1/6, 2E1 and 3A2/4 enzymes in human and rat liver microsomes (HLMs and RLMs) by the cocktail approach. HGK exhibited no time-dependent inhibition of CYP activities in HLMs and RLMs. Enzyme inhibition kinetics indicated that HGK was not only a competitive inhibitor of human CYP1A2 and 2C9, but also competitively inhibited rat CYP1A2 and 2C11 activities, with K_i value at 0.84 ± 0.03, 8.09 ± 0.44, 2.68 ± 0.32 and 8.35 ± 0.31 μM, respectively. Further studies showed that the inhibitory effect of HGK on CYP enzymes was weaker than that of diosmetin, which may be related to the substitution of hydroxyl and methoxy in the A and B rings of the flavone skeleton. Therefore, the low K_i values of HGK for CYP1A2 and 2C may lead to potential drug-drug interactions and toxicity.

Advances in plant-derived natural products for antitumor immunotherapy

In recent years, immunotherapy has emerged as a novel antitumor strategy in addition to traditional surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. It uniquely focuses on immune cells and immunomodulators in the tumor microenvironment and helps eliminate tumors at the root by rebuilding the immune system. Despite remarkable breakthroughs, cancer immunotherapy still faces many challenges: lack of predictable and prognostic biomarkers, adverse side effects, acquired treatment resistance, high costs, etc. Therefore, more efficacious and efficient, safer and cheaper antitumor immunomodulatory drugs have become an urgent requirement. For decades, plant-derived natural products obtained from land and sea have provided the most important source for the development of antitumor drugs. Currently, more attention is being paid to the discovery of potential cancer immunotherapy modulators from plant-derived natural products, such as polysaccharides, phenols, terpenoids, quinones and alkaloids. Some of these agents have outstanding advantages of multitargeting and low side effects and low cost compared to conventional immunotherapeutic agents. We intend to summarize the progress of comprehensive research on these plant-derived natural products and their derivatives and discuss their possible mechanisms in regulating the immune system and their efficacy as monotherapies or in combination with regular chemotherapeutic agents.

Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Activities of the Diterpenoids from the Genus Daphne

There are abundant natural diterpenoids in the plants of the genus Daphne from the Thymelaeaceae family, featuring a 5/7/6-tricyclic ring system and usually with an orthoester group. So far, a total of 135 diterpenoids has been isolated from the species of the genus Daphne, which could be further classified into three main types according to the substitution pattern of ring A and oxygen-containing functions at ring B. A variety of studies have demonstrated that these compounds exert a wide range of bioactivities both in vitro and in vivo including anticancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-HIV, antifertility, neurotrophic, and cholesterol-lowering effects, which is reviewed herein. Meanwhile, the fascinating structure-activity relationship is also concluded in this review in the hope of providing an easy access to available information for the synthesis and optimization of efficient drugs.

Hydroxygenkwanin Increases the Sensitivity of Liver Cancer Cells to Chemotherapy by Inhibiting DNA Damage Response in Mouse Xenograft Models

Molecules involved in DNA damage response (DDR) are often overexpressed in cancer cells, resulting in poor responses to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Although treatment efficacy can be improved with the concomitant use of DNA repair inhibitors, the accompanying side effects can compromise the quality of life of patients. Therefore, in this study, we identified a natural compound that could inhibit DDR, using the single-strand annealing yeast-cell analysis system, and explored its mechanisms of action and potential as a chemotherapy adjuvant in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cell lines using comet assay, flow cytometry, Western blotting, immunofluorescence staining, and functional analyses. We developed a mouse model to verify the in vitro findings. We found that hydroxygenkwanin (HGK) inhibited the expression of RAD51 and progression of homologous recombination, thereby suppressing the ability of the HCC cell lines to repair DNA damage and enhancing their sensitivity to doxorubicin. HGK inhibited the phosphorylation of DNA damage checkpoint proteins, leading to apoptosis in the HCC cell lines. In the mouse xenograft model, HGK enhanced the sensitivity of liver cancer cells to doxorubicin without any physiological toxicity. Thus, HGK can inhibit DDR in liver cancer cells and mouse models, making it suitable for use as a chemotherapy adjuvant.

Daphnane-type diterpenes from genus Daphne and their anti-tumor activity

Daphnane-type diterpenenoids are the major biologically active constituents in the genus Daphne. We find that there are about 101 Daphnane-type diterpenes in this genus, most of those compounds show different degrees of inhibitory effect on various cancer cell. Some of them have been studied in depth and the potent molecular mechanisms might be associated with modulation of different cell-signaling pathways. In addition, some compounds of this type also can inhibit the synthesis of protein and DNA. Absolutely, the anti-tumor activity of Daphnane-type diterpenes is worthy of attention. Unfortunately, most of the current research on the activity of these compounds is focused on simple drug efficacy, and its in-depth mechanism research is far from enough. On the other point of view, there still exists wide growing space on the depth of these compounds.

The genus Daphne: A review of its traditional uses, phytochemistry and pharmacology

The genus Daphne belongs to the Thymeleaceae family and contains over 90 species that are distributed in Asia, Europe and parts of North Africa. The species of the genus Daphne are used in the traditional medicine of China, Tibet, Korea, and the Middle East for the treatment of various conditions. A broad range of studies has shown the significant biological potential of these species as sources of biologically and pharmacologically active compounds. Daphne species are a source of several classes of valuable phytochemicals such as coumarins, flavonoids, lignans, steroids and different classes of terpenes. The phytochemical diversity of this genus is demonstrated by over 350 secondary metabolites isolated from various species. The genus possesses a broad spectrum of biological activities including antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, cytotoxic, antiviral, abortive and haemostatic effects. A variety of bioactive secondary metabolites found in this genus may have potential use in pharmaceutical, cosmetic and food industries. Thus, species belonging to the genus Daphne can be considered an important source both for the treatment of various disorders, due to the presence of a plethora of bioactive constituents with potent bioactivities, and as possible leads in the discovery and synthesis of new medications.

Suppression of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Progression through FOXM1 and EMT Inhibition via Hydroxygenkwanin-Induced miR-320a Expression

Daphne genkwa, a Chinese medicinal herb, is used frequently in Southeast Asian countries to treat diseases; the flavonoid hydroxygenkwanin (HGK) is extracted from its flower buds. The bioactivity of HGK, particularly as an anti-liver cancer agent, has not been explored. In this study, human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cell lines and an animal xenograft model were employed to investigate both the activity of HGK against liver cancer and its cellular signaling mechanisms. HCC cells treated with HGK were subjected to cell function assays. Whole transcriptome sequencing was used to identify genes whose expression was influenced by HGK, and the flavonoid’s cancer suppression mechanisms were further investigated through gain- and loss-of-function assays. Finally, in vitro findings were tested in a mouse xenograft model. The data showed that HGK induced the expression of the microRNA miR-320a, which in turn inhibited the expression of the transcription factor ‘forkhead box protein M1’ (FOXM1) and downstream FOXM1-regulated proteins related to epithelial–mesenchymal transition, thereby leading to the suppression of liver cancer cell growth and invasion. Significant inhibition of tumor growth was also observed in HGK-treated mice. Hence, the present study demonstrated the activity of HGK against liver cancer and validated its potential use as a therapeutic agent.

Anticancer Effect and Mechanism of Hydroxygenkwanin in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma

The incidence and mortality of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) are high, and the number of oral cancers had risen in the world. However, chemotherapy drugs have numerous side effects. There is an urgent requirement to develop a novel drug that can be used to treat oral cancer. Hydroxygenkwanin (HGK) is a nature flavonoid extracted from Daphne genkwa Sieb. et Zucc. (Thymelaeaceae). Previous studies had demonstrated that HGK exhibits anticancer effect, but the effect is still unclear in oral cancer. HGK inhibited cell growth dose-dependently in SAS and OCEM1 cells. The functional enrichment analysis showed the significant pathway in cellular movement, cell cycle and cellular growth and proliferation. We further demonstrated the HGK induced the cell cycle arrest by flow cytometry and inhibited colony formation ability and cell movement. The western blot showed that HGK induced cell cycle arrest through p21 activation and caused intrinsic cell apoptosis pathway. HGK inhibited the cell invasion and migration through down-regulation vimentin. HGK might be an effective natural product for oral cancer therapy.

Incompatibility assessment of Genkwa Flos and Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma with biochemical, histopathological and metabonomic approach

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

As recorded in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) theory, Genkwa Flos (YH) and Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma (GC) compose one herbal pair of the so-called "eighteen incompatible medicaments", which indicate pairs of herbs that are mutually incompatible and that theoretically should not be applied simultaneously. However, the theory has been called into question due to a lack of evidence.

AIMS OF STUDY

In this study, the incompatibility of YH and GC was investigated based on an assessment of the toxic effects of their combination by traditional safety methods and a modern metabonomic approach.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sprague-Dawley rats were used to evaluate the subacute toxicity of YH and YH-GC. The serum, urine, and several tissues were collected for biochemical analysis, histopathological examination, and metabonomic analysis.

RESULTS

Rats exposed to a dose of 1.0 g/kg YH (3 times of the Chinese Pharmacopoeia maximum dose) exhibited toxicity of the heart, liver, kidney and testes, and rats exposed to a YH-GC combination (1.0 g/kg YH + 1.0 g/kg GC) exhibited similar hepatotoxicity, which aggravated renal and reproductive toxicity. Following this, a metabonomic study tentatively identified 14 potential biomarkers in the YH group and 10 potential biomarkers in the YH-GC group, and metabolic pathways were then constructed. YH disturbed the pathways of glycerophospholipid metabolism, primary bile acid biosynthesis, and sphingolipid metabolism, while YH-GC combination induced disruptions in phenylalanine, tyrosine and tryptophan biosynthesis, tyrosine metabolism, and glycerophospholipid metabolism.

CONCLUSION

The toxicities of YH and YH-GC combination above the Chinese Pharmacopoeia dose were obvious but different. Metabonomics combined with biochemical and histopathological methods can be applied to elucidate the toxicity mechanism of the YH-GC combination that caused liver, kidney and reproductive injuries in rats.

Molecular Mechanisms Involved in Oxidative Stress-Associated Liver Injury Induced by Chinese Herbal Medicine: An Experimental Evidence-Based Literature Review and Network Pharmacology Study

Oxidative stress, defined as a disequilibrium between pro-oxidants and antioxidants, can result in histopathological lesions with a broad spectrum, ranging from asymptomatic hepatitis to hepatocellular carcinoma in an orchestrated manner. Although cells are equipped with sophisticated strategies to maintain the redox biology under normal conditions, the abundance of redox-sensitive xenobiotics, such as medicinal ingredients originated from herbs or animals, can dramatically invoke oxidative stress. Growing evidence has documented that the hepatotoxicity can be triggered by traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) during treating various diseases. Meanwhile, TCM-dependent hepatic disorder represents a strong correlation with oxidative stress, especially the persistent accumulation of intracellular reactive oxygen species. Of note, since TCM-derived compounds with their modulated targets are greatly diversified among themselves, it is complicated to elaborate the potential pathological mechanism. In this regard, data mining approaches, including network pharmacology and bioinformatics enrichment analysis have been utilized to scientifically disclose the underlying pathogenesis. Herein, top 10 principal TCM-modulated targets for oxidative hepatotoxicity including superoxide dismutases (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), reactive oxygen species (ROS), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), Bax, caspase-3, Bcl-2, nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2), and nitric oxide (NO) have been identified. Furthermore, hepatic metabolic dysregulation may be the predominant pathological mechanism involved in TCM-induced hepatotoxic impairment.

Absorption Properties of Luteolin and Apigenin in Genkwa Flos Using In Situ Single-Pass Intestinal Perfusion System in the Rat

The flower bud of Daphne genkwa (Genkwa Flos) is a commonly used herbal medicine in Asian countries. Luteolin and apigenin are two recognized active flavonoids in Genkwa Flos. The aim of this study was to investigate the intestinal absorption mechanisms of Genkwa Flos flavonoids using in situ single-pass intestinal perfusion rat model. Using HPLC, we determined its major effective flavonoids luteolin, apigenin, as well as, hydroxygenkwanin and genkwanin in biological samples. The intestinal absorption mechanisms of the total flavonoids in Genkwa Flos (TFG) were investigated using in situ single-pass intestinal perfusion rat model. Comparing the TFG absorption rate in different intestinal segments, data showed that the small intestine absorption was significantly higher than that of the colon ([Formula: see text]). Compared with duodenum and ileum, the jejunum was the best small intestinal site for TFG absorption. The high TFG concentration (61.48[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]g/ml) yielded the highest permeability ([Formula: see text]). Subsequently, three membrane protein inhibitors (verapamil, pantoprazole and probenecid) were used to explore the TFG absorption pathways. Data showed probenecid, a multidrug resistance protein (or MRP) inhibitor, effectively enhanced the TFG absorption ([Formula: see text]). Furthermore, by comparing commonly used natural absorption enhancers on TFG, it was observed that camphor was the most effective. In Situ single-pass intestinal perfusion experiment shows that TFG absorption is much higher in the small intestine than in the colon, and the TFG is absorbed mainly via an active transport pathway with MRP-mediated efflux mechanism. Camphor obviously enhanced the TFG absorption, and this could be an effective TFG formulation preparation method to increase clinical effectiveness after Genkwa Flos administration. Our study elucidated the TFG absorption mechanisms, and provided new information for its formulation preparation.

Galangin suppresses human laryngeal carcinoma via modulation of caspase-3 and AKT signaling pathways

Laryngeal cancers are mostly squamous cell carcinomas. Although targeting radio-resistant cancer cells is important for improving the treatmental efficiency, the signaling pathway- and therapeutic strategy-related to laryngeal carcinoma still require further study. Galangin is an active pharmacological ingredient, isolated from propolis and Alpinia officinarum Hance, and has been reported to have anticancer and anti-oxidative properties through regulation of cell cycle, resulting in angiogenesis, apoptosis, invasion and migration without triggering any toxicity in normal cells. PI3K/AKT and p38 are important signaling pathways to modulate cancer cell apoptosis and proliferation through caspase-3, NF-κB and mTOR signal pathways. Autophagy is also enhanced by activating LC3s and Beclin 1. In the present study, galangin was found to suppress laryngeal cancer cell proliferation. Also, flow cytometry, immunohistochemical and western blot analysis indicated that cell apoptosis was induced for galangin administration, promoting caspase-3 expression through regulating PI3K/AKT/NF-κB. Furthermore, galangin inhibited laryngeal cancer cell proliferation, related to p38 inactivation by galangin treatment. Additionally, mTOR activation regulated by PI3K/AKT was reduced by galangin, suppressing cancer cell transcription and proliferation. Our data also indicated that the tumor volume and weight in nude mice were reduced for galangin use in vivo accompanied by Ki-67 decrease and TUNEL increase in tumor tissues. Together, our data indicated that galangin has a potential role in suppressing human laryngeal cancer via inhibiting tumor cell proliferation, activating apoptosis and autophagy, which were regulated by p38 and AKT/NF-κB/mTOR pathways, providing a therapeutic strategy for human laryngeal cancer treatment.

How impaired efficacy happened between Gancao and Yuanhua: Compounds, targets and pathways

As recorded in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) theory, Gancao (Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma) could weaken the pharmacological effect or increase the toxicity of Yuanhua (Genkwa Flos). However, the theory has been suspected due to lack of evidence. Here, we investigate whether Gancao could weaken Yuanhua’s diuretic effect, if so, which chemicals and which targets may be involved. Results showed that Yuanhua exerted diuretic effect through down-regulating renal AQP 2, without electrolyte disturbances such as K⁺ loss which has been observed as side-effect of most diuretics. Gancao had no diuretic effect, but could impair Yuanhua’s diuretic effect through up-regulating renal AQP 2. Glycyrrhetinic acid (GRA) in Gancao could up-regulate AQP 2 and counteract the AQP 2 regulation effect of Yuanhuacine (YHC) and Ginkwanin (GKW) in Yuanhua. Network pharmacology method suggested that YHC, GKW and GRA could bind to MEK1/FGFR1 protein and influence ERK-MAPK pathway, which was verified by Western blotting. This study supports TCM theory and reminds that more attention should be paid to the safety and efficacy problems induced by improper combination between herbs. Moreover, we suggested that promising diuretics with less side effects can be developed from Chinese Medicines such as Yuanhua.

Abietane diterpenoids from Caryopteris incana (Thunb.) Miq

Twelve new diterpenes, caryopincaolide A-L (1-4, 11-12, 16-19, 27-28), together with twenty-eight known diterpenes, have been isolated from the whole plant of Caryopteris incana (Thunb.) Miq. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of 1D and 2D NMR, IR, X-ray crystal diffraction and mass spectroscopic data, as well as ECD calculations. All compounds were tested for in vitro dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV) inhibitory activity, with compounds 3, 4, 28, 29, and 40 exhibiting DPP-IV inhibitory effects with IC50 values ranging from 54.2 to 228.9 μM. Compounds 1, 3 and 4 also showed potent activity toward the inhibition of the growth of human cancer cells and 1 can induce apoptosis in Hey and A-549 cells.

Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Gliomas: Pharmacotherapeutic Potential of Natural Compounds

Gliomas are the most common primary brain tumors either benign or malignant originating from the glial tissue. Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most prevalent and aggressive form among all gliomas, associated with decimal prognosis due to it`s high invasive nature. GBM is also characterized by high recurrence rate and apoptosis resistance features which make the therapeutic targeting very challenging. Mitochondria are key cellular organelles that are acting as focal points in diverse array of cellular functions such as cellular energy metabolism, regulation of ion homeostasis, redox signaling and cell death. Eventual findings of mitochondrial dysfunction include preference of glycolysis over oxidative phosphorylation, enhanced reactive oxygen species generation and abnormal mitochondria mediated apoptotic machinery are frequently observed in various malignancies including gliomas. In particular, gliomas harbor mitochondrial structure abnormalities, genomic mutations in mtDNA, altered energy metabolism (Warburg effect) along with mutations in isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) enzyme. Numerous natural compounds have shown efficacy in the treatment of gliomas by targeting mitochondrial aberrant signaling cascades. Some of the natural compounds directly target the components of mitochondria whereas others act indirectly through modulating metabolic abnormalities that are consequence of the mitochondrial dysfunction. The present review offers a molecular insight into mitochondrial pathology in gliomas and therapeutic mechanisms of some of the promising natural compounds that target mitochondrial dysfunction. This review also sheds light on the challenges and possible ways to overcome the hurdles associated with these natural compounds to enter into the clinical market.

Ethanol extracts of Cinnamomum kanehirai Hayata leaves induce apoptosis in human hepatoma cell through caspase-3 cascade

Inducing apoptosis to susceptible cells is the major mechanism of most cytotoxic anticancer drugs in current use. Cinnamomum kanehirai Hayata (Lauraceae), a unique and native tree of Taiwan, is the major host for the medicinal fungus Antrodia cinnamomea which exhibits anti-cancer activity. Because of the scarcity of A. cinnamomea, C. kanehirai Hayata instead, is used as fork medicine in liver cancer. Here we observed the C. kanehirai Hayata ethanol extract could inhibit the cellular viability of both HepG2 and HA22T/VGH human hepatoma cell lines in a dose- and time-dependent manner. We found the mode of cell death was apoptosis according to cell morphological changes by Liu’s stain, oligonucleosomal DNA fragmentation by gel electrophoresis, externalization of phosphotidyl serine by detecting Annexin V and hypoploid population by cell cycle analysis. Our results showed that the extracts caused cleavage of caspase-3 and increased enzyme activity of caspase-8 and caspase-9. Caspase 3 inhibitor partially reversed the viability inhibition by the extract. Furthermore, the up-regulation of Bax and down-regulation of Bcl-2 were also noted by the extract treatment. In conclusion, C. kanehirai Hayata ethanol extract induced intrinsic pathway of apoptosis through caspase-3 cascade in human hepatoma HA22T/VGH and HepG2 cells, which might shed new light on hepatoma therapy.

Genkwadaphnin induces IFN-γ via PKD1/NF-κB/STAT1 dependent pathway in NK-92 cells

The flower buds of Daphne genkwa Sieb. et Zucc. have been used as a traditional Chinese medicine although their functional mechanisms have not been discovered yet. We have studied the potential effects of the plant extracts on natural killer (NK) cell activation, and isolated an active fraction. Genkwadaphnin (GD-1) displayed a potent efficacy to induce IFN-γ transcription in NK cells with concentration- and time-dependent manners. GD-1 treatment triggered the phosphorylation of PKD1, a member of PKC family, MEK and ERK, resulting in IKK activation to induce IκB degradation, and the nuclear localization of p65, an NF-κB subunit, which regulates IFN-γ transcription. GD-1 effect on IFN-γ production was blocked by the addition of Rottlerin, a PKC inhibitor, CID 755673, a PKD inhibitor, or Bay11-7082, an IKKα inhibitor. The nuclear localization of p65 was also inhibited by the kinase inhibitors. Secreted IFN-γ activates STAT1 phosphorylation as autocrine-loops to sustain its secretion. GD-1 induced the phosphorylation of STAT1 probably through the increase of IFN-γ. STAT1 inhibitor also abrogated the sustained IFN-γ secretion. These results suggest that GD-1 is involved in the activation of PKD1 and/or ERK pathway, which activate NK-κB triggering IFN-γ production. As positive feedback loops, secreted IFN-γ activates STAT1 and elongates its production in NK-92 cells.

Anti-inflammatory effects of 81 chinese herb extracts and their correlation with the characteristics of traditional chinese medicine

Inducible nitrogen oxide synthase (iNOS) is the primary contributor of the overproduction of nitric oxide and its inhibitors have been actively sought as effective anti-inflammatory agents. In this study, we prepared 70% ethanol extracts from 81 Chinese herbs. These extracts were subsequently evaluated for their effect on nitrogen oxide (NO) production and cell growth in LPS/IFNγ-costimulated and unstimulated murine macrophage RAW264.7 cells by Griess reaction and MTT assay. Extracts of Daphne genkwa Sieb.et Zucc, Caesalpinia sappan L., Iles pubescens Hook.et Arn, Forsythia suspensa (Thunb.) Vahl, Zingiber officinale Rosc, Inula japonica Thunb., and Ligusticum chuanxiong Hort markedly inhibited NO production (inhibition > 90% at 100 μg/mL). Among active extracts (inhibition > 50% at 100 μg/mL), Rubia cordifolia L., Glycyrrhiza glabra L., Iles pubescens Hook.et Arn, Nigella glandulifera Freyn et Sint, Pueraria lobata (Willd.) Ohwi, and Scutellaria barbata D. Don displayed no cytotoxicity to unstimulated RAW246.7 cells while increasing the growth of LPS/IFNγ-costimulated cells. By analyzing the correlation between their activities and their Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) characteristics, herbs with pungent flavor displayed potent anti-inflammatory capability. Our study provides a series of potential anti-inflammatory herbs and suggests that herbs with pungent flavor are candidates of effective anti-inflammatory agents.

Chemical composition and in vitro evaluation of the cytotoxic and antioxidant activities of supercritical carbon dioxide extracts of pitaya (dragon fruit) peel

Background

Hylocereus polyrhizus and Hylocereus undatus are two varieties of the commonly called pitaya fruits, and pitaya fruits have gained popularity in many countries all over the world. However, studies on chemical composition and the nutritional quality of pitaya flesh peel are limited.

Results

Extracts of pitaya (H. polyrhizus and H. undatus) peel were extracted by supercritical carbon dioxide extraction, and analyzed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis. Their cytotoxic and antioxidant activities were investigated. The main components of H. polyrhizus extract were β-amyrin (15.87%), α-amyrin (13.90%), octacosane (12.2%), γ-sitosterol (9.35%), octadecane (6.27%), 1-tetracosanol (5.19%), stigmast-4-en-3-one (4.65%), and campesterol (4.16%), whereas H. undatus were β-amyrin (23.39%), γ-sitosterol (19.32%), and octadecane (9.25%), heptacosane (5.52%), campesterol (5.27%), nonacosane (5.02%), and trichloroacetic acid, hexadecyl ester (5.21%). Both of the two extracts possessed good cytotoxic activities against PC3, Bcap-37, and MGC-803 cells (IC₅₀ values ranging from 0.61 to 0.73 mg/mL), and the activities of their main components were also studied. Furthermore, these extracts also presented some radical scavenging activities, with IC₅₀ values of 0.83 and 0.91 mg/mL, respectively.

Conclusion

This paper provides evidence for studying the chemical composition of supercritical carbon dioxide extracts of pitaya peel and their biological activity.