Screening of traditional Chinese medicines with therapeutic potential on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease through inhibiting oxidative stress and inflammatory response

Chemical constituents with antioxidant activity from the branches and leaves of Hultholia mimosoides

Four undescribed homoisoflavanoids (1-4), one homoflavonoid (5), ten dibenzoxocin derivatives (6a-10a and 6b-10b), one dibenzoxocin-derived phenolic compound (11), one diterpenoid (13), three aliphatic dicarboxylic acid derivatives (14-16), together with the known diterpenoid 12-O-ethylneocaesalpin B (12) were obtained from the branches and leaves of Hultholia mimosoides. Their structures were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic techniques. Notably, each of the dibenzoxocins 6-10 existed as a pair of interconvertible atropisomers and the conformation for these compounds was clarified by NMR and ECD analyses. Protosappanin F (11) was a previously undescribed dibenzoxocin-derived compound in which one of the benzene rings was hydrogenated to a polyoxygenated cyclohexane ring and an ether linkage was established between C-6 and C-12a. The isolated polyphenols were tested for induction of quinone reductase and compounds 3 and 8 showed potent QR-inducing activity in Hepa-1c1c7 cells.

N-acetyldopamine oligomers from Periplaneta americana with anti-inflammatory and vasorelaxant effects and their spatial distribution visualized by mass spectrometry imaging

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Periplaneta americana is a medicinal insect that has been applied to promote blood circulation and remove blood stasis based on traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for a long time. Its modern preparation, Xinmailong injection, was adopted for the treatment of congestive heart failure (CHF). The bioactive constituents of P. americana and their correlation with its traditional uses need further investigation.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to elucidate the N-acetyldopamine (NADA) oligomers from P. american, determine their spatial distribution, and investigate their anti-inflammatory and vasorelaxant effects to provide scientific evidence supporting the clinical use of this medicinal insect.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

NADA oligomers were isolated from the CH2Cl2: CH3OH (2:1) extract of P. americana, through sequential chromatographic methods including silica gel, Sephadex LH-20, preparative HPLC, and chiral-phase separation. Their structures were determined by HRESIMS, 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopic analysis, chiral resolution, and calculated electronic circular dichroism analysis. With the aid of atmospheric pressure scanning matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging (AP-SMALDI MSI), the isolated compounds in a spatial profile within P. americana were identified. NO production was measured to assess anti-inflammatory activity. Vasorelaxant activity assessments were performed on the norepinephrine-precontracted 3rd-order mesenteric arteries.

RESULTS

Seven new NADA trimers, peridopamines A-G (1-7), two new NADA dimers, peridopamines H and I (8 and 9), and six known NADA derivatives (10-15), were obtained from P. americana. The trimers and dimers were detected and showed similar pattern of distribution with accumulation in peripheral and rigid parts of P. americana, based on quasimolecular ion AP-SMALDI MS images of sections from the whole body and dissected areas of the insect. Furthermore, the anti-inflammatory and vasorelaxant effects of isolated compounds were investigated. Compounds 8 and 9 presented significant and moderate anti-inflammatory potentials, respectively. Compounds 8, 10, 12 and 15 possess significant vasorelaxant potentials at concentrations correlated with EC50 values of 6.7-23.7 μM.

CONCLUSION

Fifteen NADA oligomers were isolated from P. americana. The distribution of these compounds was visualized by AP-SMALDI imaging experiments and NADA oligomers were mainly observed in peripheral parts. Bioassays showed that the tested compounds had anti-inflammatory and vasorelaxant activities, which indicated that NADA oligomers are active ingredients of this insect-based TCM and have potential for the treatment of cardiovascular disease.

An integrated approach based on ultra-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry, network pharmacology, and molecular docking to study the key effective compounds and mechanism of action of Platycodi Radix in the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Platycodi Radix (PR) is a valuable herb that is widely used in the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in clinics. However, the mechanism of action for the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease remains unclear due to the lack of in vivo studies. Our study established a novel integrated strategy based on ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with time-of-flight mass spectrometry, network pharmacology, and molecular docking to systematically analyze the tissue distribution and active compounds of PR in vivo and the therapeutic mechanism of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. First, tissue distribution studies have shown that the lung is the organ with the highest distribution of PR compounds. Subsequently, network pharmacology results showed that the tumor necrosis factor signaling pathway, interleukin-17 signaling pathway, and mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathway were the critical mechanisms of PR against chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Ultimately, molecular docking results showed that the key targets were stably bound to the corresponding active compounds of PR. Our study is of great significance for the screening of the key effective compounds and the study of the mechanism of action in traditional Chinese medicine and provides data to support the further development and utilization of PR.

Unprecedented 4, 9-seco-oplopanane and seven drimane sesquiterpenoids from the Chinese Liverwort Lejeunea flava (Sw.) Nees

An unprecedented 4, 9- seco -oplopanane ( 1 ), two undescribed drimane epimers ( 2 and 3 ), and five known drimane sesquiterpenoids ( 4 - 8 ) were isolated from the Chinese liverwort Lejeunea flava (Sw.) Nees. The structures of the new sesquiterpenoids were determined using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, electronic circular dichroism calculations, and single-crystal X-ray diffraction measurements. The inhibitory capacity of the new compounds against nitric oxide production in lipopolysaccharide-induced RAW 264.7 murine macrophages, along with the cytotoxicity of the new compounds against A549 and HepG-2 human cancer cell lines, were discussed.

The alleviative effect of flavonol-type Nrf2 activator rhamnazin from Physalis alkekengi L. var. franchetii (Mast.) Makino on pulmonary disorders

Rhamnazin (RN) is a flavonol isolated from the calyxes and fruits of Physalis alkekengi L. var. franchetii (Mast.) Makino, which has been used for treating pulmonary diseases in traditional Chinese medicine. The nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is a therapeutic target for pulmonary diseases. In the present study, the underlying mechanism and pharmacological effect of RN against pulmonary disorders are investigated. Human lung epithelial Beas-2B cell and RAW 264.7 murine macrophage-based cell models, and a cigarette smoke (CS)-induced pulmonary impairment mice model are adopted for investigation in vitro and in vivo. RN is identified to be an Nrf2 activator, which promotes Nrf2 dissociation from Keap1 via reacting with the Cys151 cysteine residue of Keap1, and suppresses Nrf2 ubiquitination. In addition, RN is able to attenuate toxicant-stimulated oxidative stress and inflammatory response in vitro. Importantly, RN significantly relieves CS-induced oxidative insult and inflammation, and RN-induced inhibition of inflammation is related to inhibition of nuclear transcription factor-κB (NF-κB) and induction of cell autophagy. In conclusion, our data indicate that RN is an activator of the Nrf2 pathway and evidently alleviates pulmonary disorders via restricting NF-κB activation and promoting autophagy. RN is a promising candidate for the therapy of pulmonary disorders.

The ethanol extract of flower buds of Tussilago farfara L. attenuates cigarette smoke-induced lung inflammation through regulating NLRP3 inflammasome, Nrf2, and NF-κB

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The flower buds of Tussilago farfara L. (Abbreviated as FTF) were widely used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) to treat respiratory diseases, including asthma, dry throat, great thirst, turbid saliva, stinky pus, and coughs caused by various causes.

AIM OF STUDY

The aim of study is to explore the efficiency of FTF in vitro and in vivo for the treatment of lung inflammation, and to illustrate the possible mechanisms of FTF in treating inflammation-related respiratory diseases targeting NOD-like receptor 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), and nuclear transcription factor-κB (NF-κB).

METHODS

Lung inflammation model in vivo was induced by exposure of mice to cigarette smoke (CS) for two weeks. The levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), inflammatory factors, and histology in lung tissues were investigated in presence or absence of ethanol extract of the flower buds of T. farfara L. (FTF-EtOH). In the cell-based models, nitric oxide (NO) assay, flow cytometry assay, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (Elisa), and glutathione (GSH) assay were used to explore the anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects of FTF-EtOH. Possible anti-inflammatory mechanisms of FTF targeting NLRP3 inflammasome, Nrf2, and NF-κB have been determined using western blot, quantitative real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), immunofluorescence assay, nuclear and cytoplasmic extraction, and ubiqutination assay.

RESULTS

FTF-EtOH suppressed CS-induced overproduction of inflammatory factors [e.g., tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β)], and upregulation of the content of intracellular MDA in the lung homogenate of mice. In cell-based models, FTF-EtOH reduced the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced overproduction of inflammatory factors, and attenuated the CS extract-induced overgeneration of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Furthermore, FTF-EtOH up-regulated Nrf2 and its downstream genes through enhancing the stability of Nrf2 protein, and inhibited the activation of NF-κB and NLRP3 inflammasome, which have been confirmed by detecting the protein levels in the mouse model.

CONCLUSIONS

FTF-EtOH effectively attenuated lung inflammation in vitro and in vivo. The protection of FTF-EtOH against inflammation was produced by activation of Nrf2 and inhibitions of NF-κB and NLRP3 inflammasome. These datas definitely support the ethnopharmacological use of FTF as an anti-inflammatory drug for treating respiratory diseases in TCM.

Pinguisane Sesquiterpenoids from the Chinese Liverwort Trocholejeunea sandvicensis and Their Anti-Inflammatory Activity

Nine new pinguisane sesquiterpenoid compounds, 1-9, including a highly oxygenated compound (1) and two amides (7 and 8), along with three known compounds (10, 11, and 12), were isolated from the Chinese liverwort Trocholejeunea sandvicensis Mizut (Lejeuneaceae). The structures of these compounds were determined by analysis of IR, UV, HRESIMS, NMR spectroscopic data, electronic circular dichroism calculations, and single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. Inhibitory effects against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced NO production in RAW 264.7 murine macrophages indicated that the maximum inhibition rates of NO production of compounds 1, 9, and 10 were 83.15%, 83.54%, and 96.28% under the nontoxic tested concentration, respectively. Compound 9 also displayed moderate anti-inflammatory activity in vivo in a CuSO₄-induced transgenic zebrafish model.

Aged Pericarpium Citri Reticulatae 'Chachi' Attenuates Oxidative Damage Induced by tert-Butyl Hydroperoxide (t-BHP) in HepG2 Cells

This study investigated the protective effects of aged Pericarpium Citri Reticulatae 'Chachi' (PCR-C) on tert-butyl hydroperoxide (t-BHP)-induced oxidative damage in HepG2 cells. According to HPLC analysis, PCR-C aged 10 years (PCR-C10) had the highest flavonoids content, especially polymethoxyflavones (PMFs), compared with the fresh peel of Citrus reticulata cv. 'Chachiensis' and PCR-C aged 1, 3, and 5 years. Then, flavonoids-rich PCR-C samples and non-flavonoids-rich PCR-C samples (NF) were prepared by extracting and purifying PCR-C of different aging periods, for further cell experiments. Pretreatment with flavonoids-rich PCR-C samples (particularly PCR-C10) considerably reversed t-BHP-induced oxidative damage in HepG2 cells by improving cell viability, increasing SOD activity and GSH levels and reducing the overproduction of ROS and MDA. Correlation analysis further indicated that the accumulation of PMFs, mainly 5,6,7,4'-tetramethoxyflavone and nobiletin, was the main reason that PCR-C10 maintained the redox balance in HepG2 cells. These findings provided direct evidence for the cellular antioxidant activity of aged PCR-C and a guide for PCR-C's classification, authentication and rational use.

Diels–Alder adducts of a labdane diterpenoid from the Chinese liverwort Pallavicinia subciliata

A 7,8-seco-2,8-cyclolabdane diterpenoid, pallasubcin A (1), and three pallasubcin A-derived dimers, pallasubcins B–D (2–4), formed via a Diels–Alder reaction, were isolated from the Chinese liverwort Pallavicinia subciliata.

Impacts of oxidants and antioxidants on the emergence and progression of Alzheimer's disease

The brain shows a high sensitivity to oxidative stress (OS). Thus, the maintenance of homeostasis of the brain regarding the reduction-oxidation (redox) situation is crucial for the regular function of the central nervous systems (CNS). The imbalance between the reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the cellular mechanism might lead to the emergence of OS, causing profound cell death as well as tissue damages and initiating neurodegenerative disorders (NDDs). Characterized by the cytoplasmic growth of neurofibrillary tangles and extracellular β-amyloid plaques, Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a complex NDD that causes dementia in adult life with severe manifestations. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) is a key transcription factor that regulates the functional expression of OS-related genes and the functionality of endogenous antioxidants. In the case of oxidative damage, NRF2 is transferred to the nucleus and attached to the antioxidant response element (ARE) that enhances the sequence to initiate transcription of the cell-protecting genes. This review articulates various mechanisms engaged with the generation of active and reactive species of endogenous and exogenous oxidants and focuses on the antioxidants as a body defense system regarding the NRF2-ARE signaling path in the CNS.

Dolabrane Diterpenoids from the Chinese Liverwort Notoscyphus lutescens

Nine new dolabrane-type diterpenoids, notoscarins A-I (1-9), including an unprecedented 6,18-cyclo-dolabrane-type diterpenoid (1) obtained through intramolecular cyclization, two rare 19-nor-2-chloro-dolabrane diterpenoids (2 and 3), six new related dolabrane-type diterpenoids (4-9), and one new butyrolactone derivative (10), were isolated from the Chinese liverwort Notoscyphus lutescens. The 6,18-cyclo-dolabrane and 19-nor-dolabrane carbon skeletons are reported for the first time. The structures of these compounds were determined on the basis of MS and NMR spectroscopic data, single-crystal X-ray diffraction, and electronic circular dichroism calculations. Preliminary bioassays showed that compounds 1-10 exhibited moderate to weak quinone reductase-inducing activity in Hepa-1c1c7 cells.

Chemical Constituents from the Rhizome of Ligusticum chuanxiong Hort. and Their Nrf2 Inducing Activity

The rhizome of Ligusticum chuanxiong Hort. has been widely used for the therapy of diabetic nephropathy (DN) in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). The nuclear transcription factor erythroid 2-related factor (Nrf2) is a potential target for treating DN. The purpose of this research was to study the chemical constituents from the rhizome of L. chuanxiong, evaluate their Nrf2 inducing activity, and find the molecules with potential therapeutic effect against DN. In this study, two new phthalides (1-2) along with twenty-seven known constituents were obtained from the rhizome of L. chuanxiong. Their structures were elucidated through various spectroscopic methods. Twelve constituents, including eight phthalides (2, 5, 6,10-13, 14) and four other compounds (17, 18, 20,28), stimulated NAD(P)H: quinone reductase (QR) activity, suggesting that these bioactive constituents were potential Nrf2 activators. Among the isolated compounds, phthalide levistolide A (LA, 14) upregulated the protein levels of Nrf2, NQO1, and γ-GCS in a dose-dependent manner. Our results implied that the clinical application of the rhizome of L. chuanxiong as an anti-DN drug in TCM might be attributed to the Nrf2 inducing effect of phthalides. Thus, phthalides is a group of promising leading molecules for discovering anti-DN agents.

Terpenoids from Chinese Liverworts Scapania spp

An investigation of the chemical composition of Chinese liverworts led to the isolation of six new caged clerodane-type diterpenoids, scaparins A-C (1-3) from Scapania koponenii and scaparins D-F (4-6) from S. verrucosa. An unknown ent-trachylobane diterpenoid (7) and three known terpenoid derivatives (8-10) were obtained from S. verrucosa. The structures of the compounds were established on the basis of physical data (IR, UV, HRESIMS, and 1D and 2D NMR), and the absolute configurations were unequivocally confirmed by comparison of the experimental and calculated electronic circular dichroism spectra. Preliminary bioassays showed that compounds 1-7 exhibited moderate to weak quinone reductase-inducing activity in Hepa-1c1c7 cells.

Chemical Constituents from Physalis Calyx seu Fructus and Their Inhibitory Effects against Oxidative Stress and Inflammatory Response

Physalis Calyx seu Fructus, a traditional Chinese medicine consisting of the calyxes and fruits of Physalis alkekengi var. franchetii, has been used as therapy for inflammation-related respiratory diseases such as excessive phlegm, cough, sore throat, and pharyngitis for a long history in China. The aim of the present study was to investigate the chemical constituents of Physalis Calyx seu Fructus and identify the bioactive constituents responsible for its traditional application as therapy for inflammation-related diseases. In the present study, one new phenylpropanoid (1: ), two new steroids (17: and 18: ), together with 55 known constituents have been purified from the EtOH extract of Physalis Calyx seu Fructus. Among them, seven and twelve known constituents were isolated for the first time from Physalis Calyx seu Fructus and the genus Physalis, respectively. Fourteen constituents, including steroids [physalins (5:  - 9, 12:  - 14: , and 15: ) and ergostane (21: )], a sesquiterpenoid (35: ), alkaloids (36: and 37: ), and a flavonoid (44: ), showed inhibitory effects against oxidative stress. Ten constituents, including steroids (5, 6, 8, 13: , and 15: ), sesquiterpenoids (34: and 35: ), alkaloids (37: and 41: ), and a flavonoid (43: ), were found be potential anti-inflammatory constituents of this medicinal plant. The inhibition of oxidative stress and inflammatory response may be related to the regulation of Nrf2 and nuclear factor-κB pathways. The ethnomedical use of Physalis Calyx seu Fructus as a treatment for respiratory diseases might be attributed to the combined inhibitory effects of steroids, alkaloids, sesquiterpenoids, and flavonoids against oxidative stress and inflammatory response.

Dolabellane and Clerodane Diterpenoids from the Twigs and Leaves of Casearia kurzii

A pair of enantiomeric 15-nordolabellane diterpenoids, (-)- and (+)-caseadolabellols A (1a and 1b), three dolabellane diterpenoids, caseadolabellols B-D (2-4), two dolastane diterpenoids, caseadolastols A and B (5 and 6), 10 clerodane diterpenoids, caseakurzins A-J (7-16), and nine known diterpenoids (17-25) were isolated from the twigs and leaves of Casearia kurzii. The structures of the new compounds were established on the basis of extensive spectroscopic data, and those of compounds 1a, 1b, and 2 were verified by single-crystal X-ray crystallographic analysis. The enantiomers 1a and 1b were separated by chiral-phase HPLC. The absolute configurations were determined by experimental and calculated ECD data, the modified Mosher's method, or literature comparison. Compounds 1a and 5 showed significant quinone reductase-inducing activity in Hepa 1c1c7 cells, while 1b showed moderate activity. Molecular docking studies showed that 1a had greater binding affinity with Nrf2 protein (5FNQ) than 1b. The cytotoxic activity of compounds 1a, 1b, 2-12, 15, and 16 was evaluated, among which compounds 8 and 16 exhibited significant inhibitory activity against the A549 cell line. Compounds 8 and 16 induced the A549 cells to arrest at G2/M and S phases, respectively, and both compounds induced apoptosis in A549 cells.

Stilbenoids from the roots of Stemona tuberosa

Two new stilbenoids, stemobenoids A (1) and B (2), together with three known compounds were obtained from the roots of Stemona tuberosa. The structures of the new compounds were established by extensive spectroscopic analysis, including HRMS, 1D and 2D NMR data. Compounds 1 and 2 displayed potent quinone reductase inducing activity in Hepa 1c1c7 cells.

Novel secondary metabolites from the endobryophytic fungus Botrysphaeria laricina and their biological activity

One novel polyketide synthase-nonribosomal peptide synthetase (PKS-NRPS) hybrid metabolite, laricinin A (1), two new meroterpenoids, tricycloalternarenes X and Y (2 and 3), one new coumarin, 3,4,7-trihydroxy-6-methylcoumarin (4), together with the known ethyl acetylorsellinate (5), diorcinol K (6), and tricycloalternarenes C and D (7 and 8) were obtained from culture of the fungus Botrysphaeria laricina isolated from the moss Rhodobryum umgiganteum. The structures of the new compounds were elucidated based on extensive spectroscopic techniques including HRMS and 1D and 2D NMR measurements. The absolute configuration of compound 1 was determined by ECD calculation and it was the first example of a novel group of PKS-NRPS hybrids possessing an unprecedented methyldihydropyran-isobutylpyrrolidinone skeleton. Compounds 2, 7, and 8 showed significant quinone reductase inducing activity in Hepa 1c1c7 cells.

Synergistic protection of astragalus polysaccharides and matrine against ulcerative colitis and associated lung injury in rats

BACKGROUND

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a main form of inflammatory bowel disease. Due to complicated etiology and a high rate of recurrence, it is quite essential to elucidate the underlying mechanism of and search for effective therapeutic methods for UC.

AIM

To investigate the effects of astragalus polysaccharides (APS) combined with matrine on UC and associated lung injury.

METHODS

UC was induced in rats by colon mucosal tissue sensitization combined with trinitro-benzene-sulfonic acid-ethanol. Then, the effects of the treatments of salazopyrine, APS, matrine, and APS combined with matrine on histopathological changes of lung and colon tissues, disease activity index (DAI), colon mucosal damage index (CMDI), serum endotoxin (ET) level, serum diamine oxidase (DAO) activity, the contents of tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-1β, and the activities of myeloperoxidase, superoxide dismutase, and malondialdehyde in lung tissues, as well as the protein expression of zonula occludens (ZO)-1, Occludin, and trefoil factor 3 (TFF3) were detected in UC rats.

RESULTS

The treatments of salazopyrine, APS, matrine, and APS combined with matrine reduced DAI scores and improved histopathological changes of colon and lung tissues, as well as decreased CMDI scores, ET levels, and DAO activities in UC rats. Moreover, in lung tissues, inflammatory response and oxidative stress injury were relieved after the treatments of salazopyrine, APS, matrine, and APS combined with matrine in UC rats. Furthermore, the expression of ZO-1, Occludin, and TFF3 in lung and colon tissues was increased after different treatments in UC rats. Notably, APS combined with matrine exerted a better protective effect against UC and lung injury compared with other treatments.

CONCLUSION

APS combined with matrine exert a synergistic protective effect against UC and lung injury, which might be associated with regulating TFF3 expression.

Sacculatane diterpenoids from the Chinese liverwort Pellia epiphylla with protection against H2O2-induced apoptosis of PC12 cells

Eight previously undescribed sacculatane diterpenoids, epiphyllins A-H, and one unknown bibenzyl-based isopentene along with seven known compounds were isolated from the Chinese liverwort Pellia epiphylla (L.) Corda. Their structures were established unequivocally on the basis of spectroscopic data and CD measurement. The quinine reductase-inducing activity evaluation demonstrated that epiphyllins A-D, 1β-hydroxysacculatanolide and pellianolactone B displayed moderate antioxidant effect. Further investigation of pellianolactone B revealed its protective effects on H₂O₂-induced oxidative insults and apoptosis in PC12 cells.

Diterpenoids from the Chinese liverwort Frullania hamatiloba and their Nrf2 inducing activities

Six previously undescribed labdane diterpenoids, frullanians A-F, along with five known diterpenoids, were isolated from the Chinese liverwort Frullania hamatiloba Stephani. Their structures were determined using NMR data, electronic circular dichroism (ECD) calculations as well as the single crystal X-ray diffraction measurement. NAD(P)H: QR (quinone reductase) assay demonstrated that frullanian D and four known compounds displayed antioxidant effect mediated via Nrf2 (Nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2) induction. Further investigation of the most bioactive frullanian D in MOVAS cells revealed that it ameliorated H₂O₂-induced oxidative insults without toxicity by increasing cell viability, attenuating morphological changes, and reducing intracellular ROS production. In addition, frullanian D promoted the nuclear translocation of Nrf2 and upregulated the expressions of antioxidant proteins NQO1 (NAD(P)H quinone oxidoreductase 1) and γ-GCS (γ-glutamyl cysteine synthetase). Docking analysis using MOE software further supported the activation of the Nrf2 pathway by frullanian D.

Metabonomic study of the protective effect of Fukeqianjin formula on multi-pathogen induced pelvic inflammatory disease in rats

Background

Fukeqianjin formula has been effectively used in the treatment of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and the related complications in clinic. Although there have been some studies about the underlying mechanism that focus on its anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory activities. But the mechanism is still not fully understood. The aim of this study was to investigate the alteration of plasma metabolic profiles in PID rats and the regulatory effect of Fukeqianjin formula on potential biomarkers.

Methods

Pelvic inflammatory model was established by intrauterine inoculation of multiple pathogens combined with mechanical injury of endometrium. Rats were randomly divided into normal group, model group, azithromycin group, high-and low-dose of Fukeqianjin formula treatment group (FF-H, and FF-L, respectively). After 14 days of intragastric administration, the plasm levels of interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and nitric oxide (NO) were measured. To further recognize and identify potential biomarkers and metabolic pathways, an ultra-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole-Exactive Orbitrap-mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-Exactive Orbitrap-MS) metabonomic method combined with multivariate analyses including principal component analysis (PCA), partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) and orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA), was employed to analyze the metabolic profiling.

Results

Compared with normal group, the plasma levels of IL-1β and NO were significantly increased in the PID model group (P < 0. 05), and obviously decreased after high-dose intervention of Fukeqianjin formula (P < 0. 01). The PCA, PLS-DA and OPLS-DA analysis showed that PID rats were clearly separated from normal rats. Compared with the PID model group, the metabolite profiles of Fukeqianjin formula treatment group was gradually restored to normal. Meanwhile, 14 potential metabolite biomarkers, which were mainly related to the metabolic pathways of intervening glycerophospholipid metabolism, linoleic acid metabolism/alpha-linolenic acid metabolism, amino acid metabolism, arachidonic acid metabolism, and unsaturated fatty acids biosynthesis, have been identified. Fukeqianjin formula exerts good regulatory effect on the abnormal metabolism of PID rats.

Conclusions

Intrauterine inoculation of multiple pathogens combined with mechanical injury of endometrium could significantly disturb the plasma metabolic profiles of rats. Fukeqianjin formula has potential therapeutic effect on multi-pathogen-induced PID by ameliorating metabolism disorders and alleviating the inflammatory response.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s13020-018-0217-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Clerodane diterpenoids from the Chinese liverwort Jamesoniella autumnalis and their anti-inflammatory activity

Nine previously undescribed clerodane-type diterpenoids, jamesoniellides M-T and one ent-labdane-type diterpenoid, as well as one known analogue, were isolated from the Chinese liverwort Jamesoniella autumnalis (DC.) Stephani. Their structures were determined using MS, NMR spectroscopy, and electronic circular dichroism (ECD) calculations. Inhibition on LPS-induced NO production in RAW 264.7 murine macrophages was investigated, and the results showed that jamesoniellides Q-S exhibited moderate anti-inflammatory activity, with 50-80% maximum inhibition rate of NO production under the nontoxic tested concentration.

Therapeutic Potential of Salviae Miltiorrhizae Radix et Rhizoma against Human Diseases Based on Activation of Nrf2-Mediated Antioxidant Defense System: Bioactive Constituents and Mechanism of Action

Oxidative stress plays a central role in the pathogenesis of many human diseases. The nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is a key transcription factor regulating the intracellular antioxidant response and is an emerging target for the prevention and therapy of oxidative stress-related diseases. Salviae Miltiorrhizae Radix et Rhizoma (SMRR) is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and is commonly used for the therapy of cardiac cerebral diseases. Cumulative evidences indicated that the extract of SMRR and its constituents, represented by lipophilic diterpenoid quinones and hydrophilic phenolic acids, were capable of activating Nrf2 and inhibiting oxidative stress. These bioactive constituents demonstrated a therapeutic potential against human diseases, exemplified by cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, diabetes, nephropathy, and inflammation, based on the induction of Nrf2-mediated antioxidant response and the inhibition of oxidative stress. In the present review, we introduced the SMRR and Nrf2 signaling pathway, summarized the constituents with an Nrf2-inducing effect isolated from SMRR, and discussed the molecular mechanism and pharmacological functions of the SMRR extract and its constituents.

Ingredients from Litsea garrettii as Potential Preventive Agents against Oxidative Insult and Inflammatory Response

Oxidative stress and inflammation undoubtedly contribute to the pathogenesis of many human diseases. The nuclear transcription factor erythroid 2-related factor (Nrf2) and the nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) play central roles in regulation of oxidative stress and inflammation and thus are targets for developing agents against oxidative stress- and inflammation-related diseases. Our previous study indicated that the EtOH extract of Litsea garrettii protected human bronchial epithelial cells against oxidative insult via the activation of Nrf2. In the present study, a systemic phytochemical investigation of L. garrettii led to the isolation of twenty-one chemical ingredients, which were further evaluated for their inhibitions on oxidative stress and inflammation using NAD(P)H:quinone reductase (QR) assay and nitric oxide (NO) production assay. Of these ingredients, 3-methoxy-5-pentyl-phenol (MPP, 5) was identified as an Nrf2 activator and an NF-κB inhibitor. Further studies demonstrated the following: (i) MPP upregulated the protein levels of Nrf2, NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1), and glutamate-cysteine ligase regulatory subunit (GCLM); enhanced the nuclear translocation and stabilization of Nrf2; and inhibited arsenic [As(III)]-induced oxidative insult in normal human lung epithelial Beas-2B cells. And (ii) MPP suppressed the nuclear translocation of NF-κB p65 subunit; inhibited the lipopolysaccharide- (LPS-) stimulated increases of NF-κB p65 subunit, COX-2, iNOS, TNF-α, and IL-1β; and blocked the LPS-induced biodegrade of IκB-α in RAW 264.7 murine macrophages. Taken together, MPP displayed potential preventive effects against inflammation- and oxidative stress-related diseases.

Identification of novel Nrf2 activators from Cinnamomum chartophyllum H.W. Li and their potential application of preventing oxidative insults in human lung epithelial cells

Human lung tissue, directly exposed to the environmental oxidants and toxicants, is apt to be harmed to bring about acute or chronic oxidative insults. The nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) represents a central cellular defense mechanism, and is a target for developing agents against oxidative insult-induced human lung diseases. Our previous study found that the EtOH extract of Cinnamomum chartophyllum protected human bronchial epithelial cells against oxidative insults via Nrf2 activation. In this study, a systemic phytochemical investigation of the aerial parts of C. chartophyllum led to the isolation of thirty chemical constituents, which were further evaluated for their Nrf2 inducing potential using NAD(P)H: quinone reductase (QR) assay. Among these purified constituents, a sesquiterpenoid bearing α, β-unsaturated ketone group, 3S-(+)-9-oxonerolidol (NLD), and a diphenyl sharing phenolic groups, 3, 3′, 4, 4′-tetrahydroxydiphenyl (THD) significantly activated Nrf2 and its downstream genes, NAD(P)H quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO-1), and γ-glutamyl cysteine synthetase (γ-GCS), and enhanced the nuclear translocation and stabilization of Nrf2 in human lung epithelial cells. Importantly, NLD and THD had no toxicities under the Nrf2 inducing doses. THD also demonstrated a potential of interrupting Nrf2-Keap1 protein–protein interaction (PPI). Furthermore, NLD and THD protected human lung epithelial cells against sodium arsenite [As(III)]-induced cytotoxicity. Taken together, we conclude that NLD and THD are two novel Nrf2 activators with potential application of preventing acute and chronic oxidative insults in human lung tissue.

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The chemical compositions of Cinnamomum chartophyllum are firstly identified.

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The active ingredients supporting the biological functions of C. chartophyllum are verified.

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NLD and THD are identified to be Nrf2 activators for the first time.

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NLD and THD protect human lung epithelial cells against As(III)-induced cytotoxicity.

Botrysphones A-C and Botrysphins A-F, Triketides and Diterpenoids from the Fungus Botrysphaeria laricina

Three new triketides, botrysphones A-C (1-3) and six new isopimarane-type diterpenoids, botrysphins A-F (4-9), together with the known triketides sphaeropsidone (10) and chlorosphaeropsidone (11) and diterpenoids sphaeropsidins A and B (12 and 13), were obtained from culture of the fungus Botrysphaeria laricina associated with the moss Rhodobryum umgiganteum. The structures of the new compounds were established on the basis of extensive spectroscopic techniques including HRMS and 1D and 2D NMR data. Compounds 7 and 12 showed significant quinone reductase inducing activity in Hepa 1c1c7 cells.