Pharmacological effects of medicinal components of Atractylodes lancea (Thunb.) DC

Whole Genome Sequencing Reveals Novel Insights about the Biocontrol Potential of Burkholderia ambifaria CF3 on Atractylodes lancea

Root rot caused by Fusarium spp. is the most destructive disease on Atractylodes lancea, one of the large bulks and most common traditional herbal plants in China. In this study, we isolated a bacterial strain, CF3, from the rhizosphere soil of A. lancea and determined its inhibitory effects on F. oxysporum in both in vitro and in vivo conditions. To deeply explore the biocontrol potential of CF3, we sequenced the whole genome and investigated the key pathways for the biosynthesis of many antibiotic compounds. The results revealed that CF3 is a member of Burkholderia ambifaria, harboring two chromosomes and one plasmid as other strains in this species. Five antibiotic compounds were found that could be synthesized due to the existence of the bio-synthesis pathways in the genome. Furthermore, the synthesis of antibiotic compounds should be confirmed by in vitro experiments and novel compounds should be purified and characterized in further studies.

Is aromatic plants environmental health engineering (APEHE) a leverage point of the earth system?

It is important to note that every ecological niche in an ecosystem is significant. This study aims to assess the importance of medicinal and aromatic plants (MAPs) in the ecosystem from multiple perspectives. A primary model of Aromatic Plants Environmental Health Engineering (APEHE) has been designed and constructed. The APEHE system was used to collect aerosol compounds, and it was experimentally verified that these compounds have the potential to impact human health by binding to AKT1 as the primary target, and MMP9 and TLR4 as secondary targets. These compounds may indirectly affect human immunity by reversing drug resistance in drug-resistant bacteria in the nasal cavity. This is mainly achieved through combined mutations in sdhA, scrA, and PEP. Our findings are based on Network pharmacology and molecular binding, drug-resistance rescue experiments, as well as combined transcriptomics and metabolomics experiments. It is suggested that APEHE may have direct or indirect effects on human health. We demonstrate APEHE's numerous potential benefits, such as attenuation and elimination of airborne microorganisms in the environment, enhancing carbon and nitrogen storage in terrestrial ecosystems, promoting the formation of low-level clouds and strengthening the virtuous cycle of Earth's ecosystems. APEHE also supports the development of transdisciplinary technologies, including terpene energy production. It facilitates the creation of a sustainable circular economy and provides additional economic advantages through urban optimisation, as well as fresh insights into areas such as the habitability of other planets. APEHE has the potential to serve as a leverage point for the Earth system. We have created a new research direction.

Atractylodes lancea (Thunb.) DC. [Asteraceae] rhizome-derived exosome-like nanoparticles suppress lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation in murine microglial cells

Background

Exosome-like nanoparticles (ELNs) mediate interspecies intercellular communications and modulate gene expression.

Hypothesis/Purpose

In this study, we isolated and purified ELNs from the dried rhizome of Atractylodes lancea (Thunb.) DC. [Asteraceae] (ALR-ELNs), a traditional natural medicine, and investigated their potential as neuroinflammatory therapeutic agents.

Methods

ALR-ELN samples were isolated and purified using differential centrifugation, and their physical features and microRNA contents were analyzed through transmission electron microscopy and RNA sequencing, respectively. BV-2 microglial murine cells and primary mouse microglial cells were cultured in vitro, and their ability to uptake ALR-ELNs was explored using fluorescence microscopy. The capacity of ALR-ELNs to modulate the anti-inflammatory responses of these cells to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) exposure was assessed through mRNA and protein expression analyses.

Results

Overall, BV-2 cells were found to internalize ALR-ELNs, which comprised three microRNAs (ath-miR166f, ath-miR162a-5p, and ath-miR162b-5p) that could have anti-inflammatory activity. Pretreatment of BV-2 cells with ALR-ELN prevented the pro-inflammatory effects of LPS stimulation by significantly reducing the levels of nitric oxide, interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α. Notably, the mRNA levels of Il1b, Il6, iNos, ccl2, and cxcl10 in BV-2 cells, which increased upon LPS exposure, were significantly reduced following ALR-ELN treatment. Moreover, the mRNA levels of heme oxygenase 1, Irf7, ccl12, and Irg1 also increased significantly following ALR-ELN treatment. In addition, pretreatment of primary mouse microglial cells with ALR-ELN prevented the pro-inflammatory effects of LPS stimulation by significantly reducing the levels of nitric oxide.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that ALR-ELNs exhibit anti-inflammatory effects on murine microglial cells. Further validation may prove ALR-ELNs as a promising neuroinflammatory therapeutic agent.

Atractylenolide II ameliorates myocardial fibrosis and oxidative stress in spontaneous hypertension rats

BACKGROUND

Hypertension is a well-recognized risk factor for cardiovascular, which is also a critical factor in causing myocardial fibrosis (MF).

OBJECTIVE

The study aimed to explore the effect of Atractylenolide II (ATL-II) on MF and oxidative stress in spontaneous hypertension rats (SHR).

METHODS

The body weight of rats after injection of ATL-II was quantitatively analyzed. The left ventricular function of SHR was evaluated by Echocardiographic. HE staining, Masson trichrome staining, left ventricular mass index (LVMI) and immunofluorescence was applied to investigate the effects of ATL-II on MF. RT qPCR was used to detect the Collagen I, α-SMA, Fibronectin, and Vimentin mRNA expression levels in myocardial slices. The effect ATL-II on cardiomyocyte apoptosis was detected by TUNEL staining and western blot. An immunohistochemistry assay was conducted to detect α-SMA protein and TGF-β1 protein. The contents of H2O2, GSH-PX, SOD, and MDA were measured by colorimetry.

RESULTS

ATL-II could dose-dependently improve the BW of SHRs (P< 0.05) and enhance myocardial function. Moreover, ATL-II effectively reduced cardiomyocyte apoptosis in SHRs. Alternatively, ATL-II could inhibit the Collagen I, α-SMA, Fibronectin, and Vimentin mRNA and protein expression levels in SHRs. ATL-II could ameliorate oxidative stress by improving the activities of SOD and GSH-PX and lowering the contents of H2O2 and MDA in ATL-II-treated SHRs, which reach about 80%.

CONCLUSION

ATL-II could exert an inhibiting effect on MF and oxidative stress in SHRs. Hence, ATL-II may hold promise for the treatment of MF and oxidative stress in Spontaneous Hypertension.

Authenticating the geographic origins of Atractylodes lancea rhizome chemotypes in China through metabolite marker identification

Introduction

Atractylodes lancea is widely distributed in East Asia, ranging from Amur to south-central China. The rhizome of A. lancea is commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine, however, the quality of products varies across different regions with different geochemical characteristics.

Method

This study aimed to identify the chemotypes of A. lancea from different areas and screen for chemical markers by quantifying volatile organic compounds (VOCs) using a targeted metabolomics approach based on GC-MS/MS.

Results

The A. lancea distributed in Hubei, Anhui, Shaanxi, and a region west of Henan province was classified as the Hubei Chemotype (HBA). HBA is characterized by high content of β-eudesmol and hinesol with lower levels of atractylodin and atractylon. In contrast, the Maoshan Chemotype (MA) from Jiangsu, Shandong, Shanxi, Hebei, Inner Mongolia, and other northern regions, exhibited high levels of atractylodin and atractylon. A total of 15 categories of VOCs metabolites were detected and identified, revealing significant differences in the profiles of terpenoid, heterocyclic compound, ester, and ketone among different areas. Multivariate statistics indicated that 6 compounds and 455 metabolites could serve as candidate markers for differentiating A. lancea obtained from the southern, northern, and Maoshan areas.

Discussion

This comprehensive analysis provides a chemical fingerprint of selected A. lancea. Our results highlight the potential of metabolite profiling combined with chemometrics for authenticating the geographical origin of A. lancea.

Preclinical studies of toxicity and anti-cholangiocarcinoma activity of the standardized capsule formulation of Atractylodes lancea (Thunb.) DC

BACKGROUND

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), the adenocarcinoma of the biliary duct, is commonly reported in Asia, with the highest incidence in northeastern Thailand. Chemotherapy of CCA has been limited by the lack of effective chemotherapeutic drugs. A series of previous in vitro and in vivo studies support further research and development of Atractylodes lancea (Thunb.) DC. (AL) as a potential candidate for treating CCA as a crude ethanolic extract. In the present study, we evaluated the toxicity and anti-CCA activity of the CMC (Chemistry, Manufacturing, and Control) capsule formulation of the ethanolic rhizome extract of AL (CMC-AL) in animals.

METHODS

Major steps included acute, subchronic and chronic toxicity testing in Wistar rats and anti-CCA activity in a CCA-xenografted nude mouse model. The safety of CMC-AL was determined based on the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) and no-observed-adverse-effect level (NOAEL) according to the OECD guideline. The anti-CCA activity of CMC-AL in nude mice was evaluated after transplantation of CL-6 cells to evaluate inhibitory effects on tumor size progression and metastasis and survival time prolongation. Safety assessments included hematology, biochemistry parameters and histopathological examination. Lung metastasis was investigated using VEGF ELISA kit.

RESULTS

All evaluations confirmed satisfactory pharmaceutical properties of oral formulation and safety profile of the CMC-AL with no overt toxicity up to the MTD and NOAEL of 5,000 and 3,000 mg/kg body weight, respectively. CMC-AL exhibited potent anti-CCA efficacy with regard to inhibitory activity on tumor progression and lung metastasis.

CONCLUSIONS

CMC-AL is safe and should be further investigated in a clinical trial as a potential therapy for CCA patients.

Metabolic Discrimination between Adventitious Roots and Standard Medicinal Part of Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz. Using FT-IR Spectroscopy

This study aims to examine the metabolic discrimination between in vitro grown adventitious roots and the standard medicinal parts of Atractylodes macrocephala. To achieve this goal, firstly, in vitro culture conditions of adventitious roots such as indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) concentrations, types of media, inorganic salt strength of culture medium, and elicitor types and concentrations were optimized. The optimal culture conditions for proliferation of adventitious roots was found to consist of Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium containing 5 mg L^-1 IBA. Whole cell extracts from adventitious roots and the standard medicinal parts of A. macrocephala were subjected to Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). Principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least square discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) from FT-IR spectral data showed that adventitious roots and standard medicinal parts were clearly distinguished in the PCA and PLS-DA score plot. Furthermore, the overall metabolite pattern from adventitious roots was changed depending on the dose-dependent manner of chemicals. These results suggest that FT-IR spectroscopy can be applied as an alternative tool for the screening of higher metabolic root lines and for discriminating metabolic similarity between in vitro grown adventitious roots and the standard medicinal parts. In addition, the adventitious roots proliferation system established in this study can be directly applied as an alternative means for the commercial production of A. macrocephala.

Effects of Atractylodes lancea extracts on intestinal flora and serum metabolites in mice with intestinal dysbacteriosis

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to explore the effect of an extract of Atractylodes lancea (A. lancea) on antibiotics-induced intestinal tract disorder and the probable therapeutic mechanisms employed by this extract to ameliorate these disorders.

METHODS

Three days after acclimatization, nine male and nine female specific-pathogen-free (SPF) mice were randomly assigned into three groups: Group C (normal saline), Group M (antibiotic: cefradine + gentamicin), and Group T (antibiotic + A. lancea extract). Each mouse in Groups M and T received intragastric (i.g.) gavage antibiotics containing cefradine and gentamicin sulfate (0.02 ml/g^-1/D^-1) for 7 days. A. lancea extract (0.02 ml/g^-1/D^-1) was administered by i.g. gavage to Group T mice for 7 days following the cessation of antibiotic therapy. Group M received an equivalent volume of normal saline for 7 days, while Group C received an equivalent volume of normal saline for 14 days. Afterwards, we collected mouse feces to assess changes in intestinal microbiota by 16S ribosomal ribonucleic acid (rRNA) sequencing and metabolomics. In addition, serum samples were gathered and analyzed using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LS-MS). Finally, we performed a correlation analysis between intestinal microbiota and metabolites.

RESULTS

After treatment with antibiotic, the richness and diversity of the flora, numbers of wall-breaking bacteria and Bacteroidetes, and the numbers of beneficial bacteria decreased, while the numbers of harmful bacteria increased. After i.g. administration of A. lancea extract, the imbalance of microbial flora began to recover. Antibiotics primarily influence the metabolism of lipids, steroids, peptides, organic acids, and carbohydrates, with lipid compounds ranking first. Arachidonic acid (AA), arginine, and proline have relatively strong effects on the metabolisms of antibiotic-stressed mice. Our findings revealed that A. lancea extract might restore the metabolism of AA and L-methionine. The content of differential metabolites detected in the serum of Group T mice was comparable to that in the serum of Group C mice, but significantly different from that of Group M mice. Compared to putative biomarkers in the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) database, it was found that altered metabolites, such as amino acids, glycerol, and phospholipids, were primarily associated with the metabolism.

CONCLUSIONS

The effective mechanisms of A. lancea extract in regulating the disorder of intestinal flora in mice are related to the mechanisms of A. lancea. It could relate to lipid metabolism, bile acid metabolism, and amino acid metabolism. These results will provide a basis for further explaining the mechanism by which A. lancea regulats intestinal flora.

Environmentally-Friendly Pesticidal Activities of Callicarpa and Karomia Essential Oils from Vietnam and Their Microemulsions

There is an ongoing interest to identify alternative pesticidal agents to avoid the chronic problems associated with synthetic pesticides. Essential oils have shown promise as botanical pest control agents. In the present study, the essential oils of four members of the Lamiaceae (Callicarpa candicans, C. erioclona, C. macrophylla, and Karomia fragrans; Vietnamese names: Nàng nàng, Tu châu lông mem, Tu châu lá to and Cà diện, respectively), obtained from wild populations in Vietnam, have been obtained by hydrodistillation and analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The essential oils were formulated into microemulsions and the essential oils and their microemulsions were screened for mosquito larvicidal activity against Aedes aegypti, Aedes albopictus, Culex quinquefasciatus, and for molluscicidal activity against Pomacea canaliculata. Atractylone and (E)-caryophyllene dominated the volatiles of C. candicans (CCEO) and C. erioclona (CEEO), while the major component in C. macrophylla (CMEO) and K. fragrans (KFEO) was (E)-caryophyllene. The essential oils and microemulsions of both C. candicans and C. erioclona exhibited excellent larvicidal activity against all three mosquito species (Ae. aegypti, Ae. albopictus, and Cx. quinquefasciatus) with LC₅₀ values <10 μg/mL. Additionally, the larvicidal activity of the microemulsions were significantly improved compared with their free essential oils, especially for C. candicans and C. erioclona. All four essential oils and their microemulsions showed excellent molluscicidal activity with LC₅₀ <10 μg/mL. In most cases, the essential oils and microemulsions showed greater pesticidal activity against target organisms than the non-target freshwater fish, Oreochromis niloticus. The in silico studies on physicochemical and ADMET properties of the major components in the studied essential oils were also investigated and most of the compounds possessed a favorable ADMET profile. Computational modeling studies of the studied compounds demonstrated a favorable binding interaction with the mosquito odorant-binding protein target and support atractylone, β-selinene, and caryophyllene oxide as potential inhibitors. Based on the observed pesticidal activities of the essential oils and their microemulsions, the Callicarpa species and K. fragrans should be considered for potential cultivation and further exploration as botanical pesticidal agents.

Geographic Differentiation of Essential Oil from Rhizome of Cultivated Atractylodes lancea by Using GC-MS and Chemical Pattern Recognition Analysis

The rhizome of Atractylodes lancea (RAL) is a well-known Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) that has been applied in clinical settings for thousands of years. In the past two decades, cultivated RAL has gradually replaced wild RAL and become mainstream in clinical practice. The quality of CHM is significantly influenced by its geographical origin. To date, limited studies have compared the composition of cultivated RAL from different geographical origins. As essential oil is the primary active component of RAL, a strategy combining gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and chemical pattern recognition was first applied to compare the essential oil of RAL (RALO) from different regions in China. Total ion chromatography (TIC) revealed that RALO from different origins had a similar composition; however, the relative content of the main compounds varied significantly. In addition, 26 samples obtained from various regions were divided into three categories by hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) and principal component analysis (PCA). Combined with the geographical location and chemical composition analysis, the producing regions of RAL were classified into three areas. The main compounds of RALO vary depending on the production areas. Furthermore, a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed that there were significant differences in six compounds, including modephene, caryophyllene, γ-elemene, atractylon, hinesol, and atractylodin, between the three areas. Hinesol, atractylon, and β-eudesmol were selected as the potential markers for distinguishing different areas by orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA). In conclusion, by combining GC-MS with chemical pattern recognition analysis, this research has identified the chemical variations across various producing areas and developed an effective method for geographic origin tracking of cultivated RAL based on essential oils.

Full-length transcriptome analysis of two chemotype and functional characterization of genes related to sesquiterpene biosynthesis in Atractylodes lancea

Atractylodes lancea (Thunb.) DC. is an important medicinal plant mainly distributed in China. A. lancea is rich in volatile oils and has a significant effect on various diseases, including coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Based on the signature constituents of volatile oils, A. lancea is divided into two chemotypes: the Dabieshan and Maoshan chemotype. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) results revealed that the hinesol and β-eudesmol contents in the Dabieshan chemotype were higher than those in the Maoshan chemotype. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) and single-molecule real-time (SMRT) sequencing technologies were combined to investigate the molecular mechanisms of sesquiterpenoid biosynthesis in A. lancea. A total of 42 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) for terpenoid biosynthesis were identified in the two chemotype groups, and nine full-length terpene synthase (TPS) genes were identified. Subcellular localization revealed that AlTPS1 and AlTPS2 proteins were localized in the nucleus and endoplasmic reticulum. They use FPP as a substrate to generate sesquiterpenoids. AlTPS1 catalyzes biosynthesis of elemol while AlTPS2 is observed to perform β-farnesene synthase activity. This study provides information for understanding the differences in the accumulation of terpenoids in two chemotypes of A. lancea and lays a foundation for further elucidation of the molecular mechanism of sesquiterpenoid biosynthesis.

Atractylodin Ameliorates Colitis via PPARα Agonism

Atractylodin is a major compound in the rhizome of Atractylodes lancea, an oriental herbal medicine used for the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases, including dyspepsia, nausea, and diarrhea. Recent studies have shown that atractylodin exerts anti-inflammatory effects in various inflammatory diseases. Herein, we investigated the anti-colitis effects of atractylodin and its molecular targets. We determined the non-cytotoxic concentration of atractylodin (50 μM) using a cell proliferation assay in colonic epithelial cells. We found that pretreatment with atractylodin significantly inhibits tumor necrosis factor-α-induced phosphorylation of nuclear factor-κ-light-chain-enhancer of activated B in HCT116 cells. Through docking simulation analysis, luciferase assays, and in vitro binding assays, we found that atractylodin has an affinity for peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα). Daily administration of atractylodin (40 mg/kg) increased the survival rate of mice in a dextran sodium sulfate-induced colitis mouse model. Thus, atractylodin can be a good strategy for colitis therapy through inducing PPARα-dependent pathways.

Bioassay for total serum bioactivity of Atractylodes lancea

The study aimed to establish a bioassay for total bioactivity of Atractylodes lancea (AL) in human serum samples. Inhibition of bacterial growth (Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923) was assessed using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. The calibration curve (0, 0.39, 0.78, 1.56, 3.13, 2.56, and 50 ng/μl) was linear with correlation coefficients >0.990. The limit of quantification (LOQ) was 1.66 mg/ml using 20-ml serum sample. The developed bioassay method meets the standard of the bioanalytical method for determination of serum bioactivity of AL.

The Role of Herbal Medicine in Cholangiocarcinoma Control: A Systematic Review

The growing incidence of cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer) and limited treatment options stimulate a pressing demand for research and the development of new chemotherapeutics against cholangiocarcinoma. This study aimed to systematically review herbs and herb-derived compounds or herbal formulations that have been investigated for their anti-cholangiocarcinoma potential. Systematic literature searches were conducted in three electronic databases: PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Scopus. One hundred and twenty-three research articles fulfilled the eligibility critera and were included in the analysis (68 herbs, isolated compounds and/or synthetic analogs, 9 herbal formulations, and 119 compounds that are commonly found in several plant species). The most investigated herbs were Atractylodes lancea (Thunb.) DC. (Compositae) and Curcuma longa L. (Zingiberaceae). Only A. lancea (Thunb.) DC. (Compositae) has undergone the full process of nonclinical and clinical development to deliver the final product for clinical use. The extracts of A. lancea (Thunb.) DC. (Compositae), Garcinia hanburyi Hook.f. (Clusiaceae), and Piper nigrum L. (Piperaceae) exhibit antiproliferative activities against human cholangiocarcinoma cells (IC₅₀ < 15 µg/mL). Cucurbitacin B and triptolide are herbal isolated compounds that exhibit the most promising activities (IC₅₀ < 1 µM). A series of experimental studies (in vitro, in vivo, and humans) confirmed the anti-cholangiocarcinoma potential and safety profile of A. lancea (Thunb.) DC. (Compositae) and its active compounds atractylodin and β-eudesmol, including the capsule pharmaceutical of the standardized A. lancea (Thunb.) DC. (Compositae) extract. Future research should be focused on the full development of the candidate herbs to deliver products that are safe and effective for cholangiocarcinoma control.

Lessons learned from the discovery and development of the sesquiterpene lactones in cancer therapy and prevention

INTRODUCTION

Sesquiterpene lactones (SLs) are one of the most diverse bioactive secondary metabolites found in plants and exhibit a broad range of therapeutic properties . SLs have been showing promising potential in cancer clinical trials, and the molecular mechanisms underlying their anticancer potential are being uncovered. Recent evidence also points to a potential utility of SLs in cancer prevention.

AREAS COVERED

This work evaluates SLs with promising anticancer potential based on cell, animal, and clinical models: Artemisinin, micheliolide, thapsigargin dehydrocostuslactone, arglabin, parthenolide, costunolide, deoxyelephantopin, alantolactone, isoalantolactone, atractylenolide 1, and xanthatin as well as their synthetic derivatives. We highlight actionable molecular targets and biological mechanisms underlying the anticancer therapeutic properties of SLs. This is complemented by a unique assessment of SL mechanisms of action that can be exploited in cancer prevention. We also provide insights into structure-activity and pharmacokinetic properties of SLs and their potential use in combination therapies.

EXPERT OPINION

We extract seven major lessons learned and present evidence-based solutions that can circumvent some scientific limitations or logistic impediments in SL anticancer research. SLs continue to be at the forefront of cancer drug discovery and are worth a joint interdisciplinary effort in order to leverage their potential in cancer therapy and prevention.

Sesquiterpenoids Isolated from the Rhizomes of Genus Atractylodes

Atractylodes plants have been used in traditional herbal medicine to treat gastrointestinal diseases and contain various chemical compounds. Sesquiterpenoids are the most important therapeutic compounds in Atractylodes rhizomes. Based on studies reported from 2000 to 2022, we classified sesquiterpenoids by their chemical skeletons and original resources. Moreover, we discussed their biosynthesis and physicochemical and pharmacological features. We reported sesquiterpenoids with skeletal moieties, such as monocyclic sesquiterpenes (bisabolene- and elemene-type), bicyclic sesquiterpenes (eudesmane-, isopterocarpolone-, hydroxycarissone-, eremophilane-, bisesquiterpenoid-, guaiane- and spirovetivane-type and eudesmane lactones) and tricyclic sesquiterpenes (cyperene- and patchoulene-type), with their biosynthetic pathways, chemical modifications and in vivo metabolites. The pharmacological activities of sesquiterpenoids as anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, anti-diabetic and anti-microbial and for treating gastrointestinal disorders have been reported for this genus.

Network Pharmacology and Experimental Validation to Investigate the Antidepressant Potential of Atractylodes lancea (Thunb.) DC

Atractylodes lancea (Thunb.) DC. (AL) has been indicated in traditional prescriptions for the treatment of depression. However, the mechanism of action of AL in the treatment of depression is still unclear. This study aimed to investigate the antidepressant potential of AL using network pharmacology, molecular docking, and animal experiments. The active components of AL were retrieved from the traditional Chinese medicine systems pharmacology database and analysis platform (TCMSP), and the depression-related targets were screened through the DisGeNET database. Overlapping targets of AL and depression were selected and analyzed. Ten active compounds of AL showed anti-depressant potential, including stigmasterol, 3β-acetoxyatractylone, wogonin, β-sitosterol, selina-4(14),7(11)-dien-8-one, atractylenolide I, atractylenolide II, atractylenolide III, patchoulene, and cyperene. These compounds target 28 potential antidepressant genes/proteins. Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis revealed that the potential targets might directly influence neural cells and regulate neuroinflammation and neurotransmitter-related processes. The potential Kyoto Encyclopedia Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways for the antidepressant effects of AL include neuroactive ligand-receptor interactions, calcium signaling pathways, dopaminergic synapse, interleukin (IL)-17 signaling pathways, and the pathways of neurodegeneration. IL-6, nitric oxide synthase 3 (NOS), solute carrier family 6 member 4 (SLC6A4), estrogen receptor (ESR1), and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) were the most important proteins in the protein-protein interaction network and these proteins showed high binding affinities with the corresponding AL compounds. AL showed an antidepressant effect in mice by decreasing immobility time in the tail suspension test and increasing the total contact number in the social interaction test. This study demonstrated the antidepressant potential of AL, which provides evidence for pursuing further studies to develop a novel antidepressant.

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and production of secondary metabolites in medicinal plants

Medicinal plants are an important source of therapeutic compounds used in the treatment of many diseases since ancient times. Interestingly, they form associations with numerous microorganisms developing as endophytes or symbionts in different parts of the plants. Within the soil, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are the most prevalent symbiotic microorganisms forming associations with more than 70% of vascular plants. In the last decade, a number of studies have reported the positive effects of AMF on improving the production and accumulation of important active compounds in medicinal plants.In this work, we reviewed the literature on the effects of AMF on the production of secondary metabolites in medicinal plants. The major findings are as follows: AMF impact the production of secondary metabolites either directly by increasing plant biomass or indirectly by stimulating secondary metabolite biosynthetic pathways. The magnitude of the impact differs depending on the plant genotype, the AMF strain, and the environmental context (e.g., light, time of harvesting). Different methods of cultivation are used for the production of secondary metabolites by medicinal plants (e.g., greenhouse, aeroponics, hydroponics, in vitro and hairy root cultures) which also are compatible with AMF. In conclusion, the inoculation of medicinal plants with AMF is a real avenue for increasing the quantity and quality of secondary metabolites of pharmacological, medical, and cosmetic interest.

Database mining and animal experiment-based validation of the efficacy and mechanism of Radix Astragali (Huangqi) and Rhizoma Atractylodis Macrocephalae (Baizhu) as core drugs of Traditional Chinese medicine in cancer-related fatigue

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

In China, Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is often used as the main therapy for cancer-related fatigue (CRF). However, there is limited evidence to prove its therapeutic effect and mechanism.

AIM OF THE STUDY

We aimed to provide a basis for the therapeutic effect of TCM for CRF.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We performed a meta-analysis to investigate the efficacy of TCM treatment for CRF. Through frequency statistics and association rule mining, we screened the core Chinese medicine components, Astragalus mongholicus Bunge., root (Radix astragali, Huangqi) and Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz., rhizome (Rhizoma atractylodis macrocephalae, Baizhu). We then used animal experiments to verify the effectiveness of these two TCMs and changes in related indicators in mice. Relevant molecular mechanisms were explored through network pharmacological analysis.

RESULTS

Twenty-four randomised control trials (RCTs) involving 1865 patients were included in the meta-analysis. TCM produced more positive effects on CRF than standard therapy alone. Radix astragali and Rhizoma atractylodis macrocephalae, as the core drug pair for the treatment of CRF, enhanced the physical fitness of mice; reduced abdominal circumference, level of inflammatory factors, and tumour weight; and increased body weight and blood sugar. Network pharmacology analysis showed that the mechanism of action of Radix astragali and Rhizoma atractylodis macrocephalae on CRF mainly involved compounds, such as quercetin, kaempferol and luteolin, acting through multiple targets, such as Protein kinase B α (AKT1), Tumour necrosis factor (TNF), and Interleukin-6 (IL-6). These molecules regulate cytokines, cancer signalling, and metabolic pathways and confer an anti-CRF effect.

CONCLUSIONS

TCM may be a promising therapy to relieve CRF in cancer patients. Our research may provide a reference for the clinical application of TCM for treating CRF.

Early stem growth mutation alters metabolic flux changes enhance sesquiterpenoids biosynthesis in Atractylodes lancea (Thunb.) DC

Atractylodes lancea (Thunb.) DC. is a well-known medicinal herb in China, containing abundant active components, including a variety of sesquiterpenoids. Owing to a shortage of wild resources, artificial cultivation has become the main breeding mode, leading to the germplasm degradation. In preliminary research, our research group found that a mutant tissue culture seedling of A. lancea is an excellent germplasm resource, characterized by early stem growth and higher sesquiterpenoid content than that of the wild type. In this study, the physiological and biochemical mechanisms underlying efficient sesquiterpenoids synthesis by this mutant A. lancea were systematically evaluated. The results showed that the photosynthetic efficiency, central carbon metabolism efficiency, and energy metabolism efficiency were significantly improved in mutant A. lancea compared with the wild type, and the content of endogenous hormones, such as gibberellin and jasmonic acid, changed significantly. In addition, levels of key metabolites and the expression level of key genes in the mevalonate and 2-C-methyl-d-erythritol-4-phosphate pathways were significantly higher in mutant type than in wild type, resulting in elevated sesquiterpenoid synthesis in the mutant. These physiological and biochemical properties explain the rapid growth and high sesquiterpenoid content of mutant A. lancea.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11240-022-02240-5.

Laryngopharyngeal Reflux in Obstructive Sleep Apnea-Hypopnea Syndrome: An Updated Meta-Analysis

Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) is a common disorder in patients with obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS). This meta-analysis was carried out to evaluate the LPR prevalence in individuals with OSAHS and to analyze the correlation of LPR positivity with the clinical features of patients with OSAHS. A detailed review of the English and Chinese literature on the occurrence of LPR in patients with OSAHS was performed by employing online search tools such as PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, VIP, CNKI, WanFang, etc. Two researchers analyzed the studies for quality according to the STROBE standard checklist. The acquired data were analyzed using Stata 11.0 and R 3.6.1 software. The effect size was estimated and calculated using weighted mean difference (WMD) and correlation coefficients. Moreover, a combined analysis was performed by employing either a random- or fixed-effects model. Ultimately, 27 studies met our inclusion criteria. Our study revealed that the LPR prevalence in OSAHS patients was 49%. We carried out subgroup analyses as per OSAHS severity, ethnicity, and body mass index (BMI). The results suggested that the probability of LPR in European and American patients with OSAHS was higher, and the prevalence of LPR was higher in obese individuals and patients with severe OSAHS. Moreover, apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) and BMI were higher in LPR-positive OSAHS patients than in LPR-negative OSAHS patients, but no significant variation in age was observed in the two groups. Moreover, the reflux symptom index (RSI) scores and the reflux finding score (RFS) exhibited a positive correlation with AHI. The current literature shows a higher incidence of LPR in individuals with OSAHS (49%). The severity of AHI in individuals with OSAHS is associated with the presence of LPR. Patients with OSAHS accompanied by LPR showed higher BMI and AHI as compared to those patients with LPR-negative OSAHS.

Suppression of Cholangiocarcinoma Cell Growth and Proliferation by Atractylodes lancea (Thunb) DC. through ERK-Signaling Cascade

OBJECTIVE

The study aimed to investigate the inhibitory effects of AL on the ERK signaling molecules (ERK, p-ERK, cyclin D, and eIF4B) and the growth and proliferation of CCA cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The viability of the three CCA cell lines CL-6, HuCCT1, and HuH28 was determined using MTT assay. The effect of Ras/ERK inhibitors on protein expression in the presence of AL extract was investigated. The protein extracted from each CCA cell following exposure to AL and/or Ras/ERK inhibitors were separated on 12.5% SDS-PAGE. The analysis of mRNA expression following 48 and 72 hours of AL exposure in comparison with 0 hours (non-exposed cells) was performed by using RT-PCR.

RESULTS

The potency of cytotoxic activity of AL (by MTT assay) was about three times higher than the standard drug 5-fluorouracil. The IC50 (concentration that inhibits cell growth by 50%) of AL for the CL-6, HuCCT-1 and HuH28 cell lines were 29.77±6.64, 35.45±4.96, and 35.32±6.69 µg/mL (mean+SD), respectively. The cells were exposed to AL extract at the IC50 for 0, 12, 24, 48, and 72 hours in the absence and presence of Ras/ERK inhibitors (salirasib and XMD8-92). Protein expression was determined by Western blot analysis. The results suggested the lack of significant inhibitory effect of AL on ERK at 48 and 72 hours of exposure in all CCA cell types. On the other hand, a significant inhibitory effect was observed with p-ERK expression in all CCA cell types. Cyclin D was significantly down-regulated at 72 hours of exposure in all cell types with different potencies. The expression of eIF4B was markedly inhibited in HuCCT-1 but slightly inhibited in CL-6 and HuH28 cells. Real-time PCR analysis revealed significant down-regulation of ERK following 72 hours of AL exposure in the HuCCT1 and HuH28, but not CL-6 cell.

CONCLUSION

The ERK signaling cascade and downstream molecules are potential targets of action of AL in CCA.

Study on the compatibility effect and active constituents of Atractylodis Rhizoma in Ermiao Wan against Acute Gouty Arthritis

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ermiao Wan (EMW), composed of Atractylodis Rhizoma (AR) and Phellodendri Chinensis Cortex (PC), is a classical traditional Chinese medicine prescription having been used to treat the disease named "Tong Feng", which is described as "ache in bones and joints" with the same symptom of modern disease named acute gouty arthritis for many years in TCM clinical practice. Besides, both PC and AR were considered to be effective in anti-inflammatory according to modern pharmacological research.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Present study was undertaken to probe the compatibility rationality between the two herbs PC and AR in EMW and the active constituents of AR against acute gouty arthritis (AGA).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Rat model of AGA was induced by intra-articular injection of monosodium urate (MSU) crystal suspension, and PC combined with or without different AR extracts were used for AGA treatment. Ankle joint swelling, proinflammatory cytokines in serum and pathological changes of synovium were investigated. Using the developed UHPLC-QQQ-MS method, the plasma concentrations of the primary alkaloids in PC, such as berberine, phellodendrine, magnoflorine, jatrorrhizine, berberrubine, palmatine, and tetrahydropalmatine, in AGA rat were determined, and pharmacokinetics properties were compared following oral administration of PC, PC combined with or without different AR extracts.

RESULTS

PC, PC combined with AR volatile oil (VO) extract or PC combined with whole AR extract significantly attenuated the ankle joint swelling of AGA rats. Besides, the combination of PC and VO extract of AR showed superior efficacy than other groups in ameliorating ankle joint swelling, reducing the IL-6 expression in serum and improving tissue lesions of ankle joints. Furthermore, it turned out that the VO extract of AR increased the blood exposure level of PC related alkaloids than non-volatile oil (NVO) extract of AR, by comparing the pharmacokinetic results of each group.

CONCLUSIONS

The VO components of AR were the key compatible materials to combine with PC in EMW for AGA treatment. Moreover, the enhanced anti-AGA activity of PC after combining with VO extract of AR may attribute to the influence of VO on the pharmacokinetics of PC. This study may provide useful information for elucidating the compatibility effects of AR in EMW against AGA.

Comparative pharmacokinetics, intestinal absorption and urinary excretion of six alkaloids from herb pair Phellodendri Chinensis cortex-Atractylodis Rhizoma

Phellodendri Chinensis Cortex (PCC) and Atractylodis Rhizoma (AR) are frequently used as herb pair to treat eczema and gout owing to their synergistic effects. Alkaloids are the major ingredients from PCC and the effect of their combination on the in vivo processing of alkaloids remains unclear. In this study, a simple and reliable UPLC-MS/MS method for simultaneous determination of six alkaloids in rat plasma was developed. This method was applied to a comparative pharmacokinetic study between PCC and PCC-AR in rats. Effect of AR on absorption of alkaloids was investigated by a single-pass intestinal perfusion study. The effect of AR on urinary excretion of alkaloids was studied. Pharmacokinetic studies showed that the values of rea under the concentration-time curve of phellodendrine, magnoflorine and palmatine were greater in the PCC-AR group than in the PCC group. The intestinal absorptive parameters absorption rate constant and effective permeability of phellodendrine and jatrorrhizine in PCC-AR groups were higher than those in the PCC group. Urinary excretion studies revealed that the excreted amount of alkaloids in the PCC-AR group was lower than that in the PCC group. The results revealed that the combination of PCC and AR improves intestinal absorption of alkaloids and reduces their urinary excretion, which enhances their systemic exposure. This study may explain the synergetic effects of PCC and AR in clinical applications.

β-eudesmol but not atractylodin exerts an inhibitory effect on CFTR-mediated chloride transport in human intestinal epithelial cells

Oriental herbal medicine with the two bioactive constituents, β-eudesmol (BE) and atractylodin (AT), has been used as a remedy for gastrointestinal disorders. There was no scientific evidence reporting their antidiarrheal effect and underpinning mechanisms. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the anti-secretory activity of these two compounds in vitro. The inhibitory effect of BE and AT on cAMP-induced Cl^- secretion was evaluated by Ussing chamber in human intestinal epithelial (T84) cells. Short-circuit current (I_SC) and apical Cl^- current (I_Cl-) were measured after adding indirect and direct cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) chloride channel activator. MTT assay was used to determine cellular cytotoxicity. Protein-ligand interaction was investigated by in silico molecular docking analysis. BE, but not AT concentration-dependently (IC₅₀ of ~1.05 µM) reduced cAMP-mediated, CFTR_inh-172 inhibitable Cl^- secretion as determined by transepithelial I_SC across a monolayer of T84 cells. Potency of CFTR-mediated I_Cl- inhibition by BE did not change with the use of different CFTR activators suggesting a direct blockage of the channel active site(s). Pretreatment with BE completely prevented cAMP-induced I_Cl-. Furthermore, BE at concentrations up to 200 µM (24 h) had no effect on T84 cell viability. In silico studies indicated that BE could best dock onto dephosphorylated structure of CFTR at ATP-binding pockets in nucleotide-binding domain (NBD) 2 region. These findings provide the first evidence for the anti-secretory effect of BE involving inhibition of CFTR function. BE represents a promising candidate for the therapeutic or prophylactic intervention of diarrhea resulted from intestinal hypersecretion of Cl^.

Characterization of chemical constituents and metabolites in rat plasma after oral administration of San Miao Wan by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography tandem Q-Exactive Orbitrap mass spectrometry

San Miao Wan (SMW), composed of Phellodendri Chinensis Cortex, Atractylodis Lanceae Rhizoma and Achyranthis Bidentatae Radix, is widely used for the treatment of gout, hyperuricemia and other diseases. In the present study, an overall identification strategy based on ultra-high performance liquid chromatography tandem Q-Exactive Orbitrap mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-Exactive Orbitrap/MS) method was established to characterize the multiple chemical constituents of SMW and its metabolites in rat plasma after oral administration of SMW. A total of 76 constituents including alkaloids, organic acids, lactones, terpenes, saponins, sterones and others types of components were identified in the extract of SMW. After the oral administration of SMW, 47 prototype constituents and 66 metabolites were identified in rat plasma samples. The related metabolic pathways mainly involved reduction, demethylation, hydroxylation, methylation and glucuronide conjunction. The proposed method could be a useful approach to identify the chemical constituents of SMW and its metabolic components. Our study provide a universal strategy for the analysis of the components and metabolites of the traditional Chinese medicine prescription (TCP) extracts and plasma after administration using UPLC-Q-Exactive Orbitrap/MS method. It will assist with clarifying the substance basis of effective components in SMW. It also provides a rapid method for overall analysis of chemical constituents and metabolites of SMW.

A randomized placebo-controlled phase I clinical trial to evaluate the immunomodulatory activities of Atractylodes lancea (Thunb) DC. in healthy Thai subjects

Background

Atractylodes lancea (Thunb) DC. (AL) and bioactive compounds β-eudesmol and atractylodin have been demonstrated in the in vitro and in vivo studies for their potential clinical use in cholangiocarcinoma. The study was a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled phase I clinical trial to evaluate the immunomodulatory effect of AL in human subjects.

Methods

The modulatory effects of AL and β-eudesmol and atractylodin on TNFα and IL6 expression in PBMCs were measured using real-time PCR. Blood samples were collected from forty-eight healthy subjects following oral administration of a single or multiple dosing of capsule formulation of the standardized AL extract or placebo. Serum cytokine profiles, lymphocyte subpopulations (B lymphocytes, CD8⁺ cytotoxic T lymphocytes, CD4⁺ T-helper lymphocytes, and NK cells), and cytotoxic activity of PBMCs against the cholangiocarcinoma cell line CL-6 were evaluated using cytometric bead array (CBA) with flow cytometry analysis.

Results

AL extract at almost all concentrations significantly inhibited both TNFα and IL6 expression in Con A-mediated inflammation in PBMCs. β-Eudesmol at all concentrations significantly inhibited only IL6 expression. Atractylodin at the lowest concentration significantly inhibited the expression of both cytokines, while the highest concentration significantly inhibited only IL6 expression. The administration of AL at a single oral dose of 1000 mg appeared to decrease IFNγ and IL10 and increase B cell, while significantly increase NK and CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ cells. A trend of increasing (compared with placebo) in the cytotoxic activity of PBMCs at 24 h of dosing was observed. AL at multiple dosing of 1000 mg for 21 days tended to decrease the production of all cytokines, while significantly inhibited IL17A production at 24 h of dosing. In addition, a significant increase in CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ cells was observed. A trend of increase in the cytotoxic activity of PBMCs was observed at 24 h but terminated at 48 h of dosing.

Conclusions

The results confirm the immunomodulatory activity of AL in humans. This activity, in complementary with the direct action of AL on inducing cholangiocarcinoma cell apoptosis, suggests its potential role for CCA control.

Trial registration

Retrospectively registered on 17 October 2020 [Thai Clinical Trials Registry (TCTR: www.clinicaltrials.in.th) Number TCTR20201020001#].

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12906-020-03199-6.

Atractylodis Rhizoma: A review of its traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, toxicology and quality control

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Atractylodis Rhizoma (AR), mainly includes Atractylodes lancea (Thunb.) DC. (A. lancea) and Atractylodes chinensis (DC.) Koidz. (A. chinensis) is widely used in East Asia as a diuretic and stomachic drug, for the treatment of rheumatic diseases, digestive disorders, night blindness, and influenza as it contains a variety of sesquiterpenoids and other components of medicinal importance.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

A systematic summary on the botany, traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, toxicology, and quality control of AR was presented to explore the future therapeutic potential and scientific potential of this plant.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A review of the literature was performed by consulting scientific databases including Google Scholar, Web of Science, Baidu Scholar, Springer, PubMed, ScienceDirect, CNKI, etc. Plant taxonomy was confirmed to the database "The Plant List".

RESULTS

Over 200 chemical compounds have been isolated from AR, notably sesquiterpenoids and alkynes. Various pharmacological activities have been demonstrated, especially improving gastrointestinal function and thus allowed to assert most of the traditional uses of AR.

CONCLUSIONS

The researches on AR are extensive, but gaps still remain. The molecular mechanism, structure-activity relationship, potential synergistic and antagonistic effects of these components need to be further elucidated. It is suggested that further studies should be carried out in the aspects of comprehensive evaluation of the quality of medicinal materials, understanding of the "effective forms" and "additive effects" of the pharmacodynamic substances based on the same pharmacophore of TCM, and its long-term toxicity in vivo and clinical efficacy.

Phase I clinical trial to evaluate the safety and pharmacokinetics of capsule formulation of the standardized extract of Atractylodes lancea

Background and aim

Atractylodes lancea (AL) has been demonstrated in a series of studies to be a potential candidate for the treatment of cholangiocarcinoma. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the safety and pharmacokinetics of the capsule formulation of the standardized AL extract in healthy Thai participants.

Experimental procedure

Forty-eight healthy Thai participants who fulfilled the inclusion and had none of the exclusion criteria were allocated to two study groups. The group 1 participants were randomized to receive a single oral dose of 1,000 mg of AL or placebo (20:4 participants). The group 2 participants were randomized to receive daily oral doses of 1,000 mg AL or placebo daily for 21 days (20:4 participants). Safety and tolerability of the two AL regimens were monitored. Blood samples were collected for measurement of atractylodin concentrations by HPLC and pharmacokinetic analysis was performed using model-dependent and model-independent analysis.

Results and conclusion

The AL extract was well tolerated in both groups. Atractylodin was rapidly absorbed but with low systemic exposure and residence time. There was no difference in the pharmacokinetic parameters of atractylodin following a single or multiple dosing, suggesting the absence of accumulation and dose-dependency in human plasma after continuous dosing for 21 days. The information on human pharmacokinetics of AL, when given as capsule formulation of the standardized extract, would assist in further dose optimization in cholangiocarcinoma patients with the defined pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic relationship.

•

The study is the first pharmacokinetics of Atractylodes lancea (AL) in humans.

•

AL was well tolerated as verified by clinical and laboratory investigations.

•

There was no change in the pharmacokinetics of atractylodin (AL active compound) when given as multiple dosing for 21 days.

•

The information will be used for further dose optimization in cholangiocarcinoma patients.

Properties of the Novel Chinese Herbal Medicine Formula Qu Du Qiang Fei I Hao Fang Warrant Further Research to Determine Its Clinical Efficacy in COVID-19 Treatment

Introduction: COVID-19, the infectious disease induced by the virus severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus-2, has caused increasing global health concerns, and novel strategies to prevent or ameliorate the condition are needed. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) herbal formulas have been used in the treatment of epidemics in China for over 2000 years. This study investigated the therapeutic effects of Qu Du Qiang Fei I Hao Fang (QDQF1) "Eliminating Virus and Strengthening Lung-No.1 Formula," in the treatment and prevention of COVID-19. QDQF1 consists of Shēng Huáng Qí, Běi Shā Shēn, Chuān Jié Gěng, Zhì Fáng Fēng, Qīng Lián Qiáo, Jīn Yín Huā, Bǎn Lán Gēn, Chǎo Cāng Zhú, Zǐ Huā Dì Dīng, and Shēng gān căo. Materials and Methods: A literature survey was performed by conducting systematic electronic searches in PubMed, Science Direct, Google Scholar, and in books. Results: Each herb in this formula has long been used to treat various diseases due to their pharmacologic, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects that inhibit microbial adherence to mucosal or epithelial surfaces, inhibit endotoxin shock, and selectively inhibit microbial growth. Conclusion: The herbs chosen for the QDQF1 formula have been historically paired, and cast a wide net over the potential COVID-19 symptomatology. Their combined functions provide comprehensive and balanced therapeutics from both TCM and allopathic perspectives. Individual herbs and herbal combinations are analyzed for their applicability to pertinent TCM patterns of COVID-19 presentations, including heat and cold patterns, damp and phlegm syndromes, toxicity, and deficiency patterns. A further study in a randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled trial of QDQF1 is recommended to assess its therapeutic efficacy in the treatment of COVID-19.

Therapeutic potential and pharmacological activities of β-eudesmol

Herbal medicines are attracting the attention of researchers worldwide. β-Eudesmol is one of the most studied and major bioactive sesquiterpenes, mainly extracted from Atractylodes lancea (Thunb) DC. rhizomes. It has potential anti-tumor and anti-angiogenic activities and is an inhibitor of tumor growth by inhibiting angiogenesis by suppressing CREB activation of the growth factor signaling pathway. It also stimulates neurite outgrowth in rat pheochromocytoma cells with activation of mitogen-activated protein kinases. It may be a promising lead compound for enhancing neural function, and it may help to explain the underlying mechanisms of neural differentiation. In this review, we summarized the currently available clinical and preclinical studies describing the therapeutic applications of β-eudesmol.

Network Pharmacology Approach to Uncover the Mechanism Governing the Effect of Simiao Powder on Knee Osteoarthritis

Objective

To explore the molecular mechanism of Simiao powder in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis.

Methods

Based on oral bioavailability and drug-likeness, the main active components of Simiao powder were screened using the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform (TCMSP). GeneCard, OMIM, DisGeNET, DrugBank, PharmGkb, and the Therapeutic Target Database were used to establish target databases for knee osteoarthritis. Cytoscape software was used to construct a visual interactive network diagram of “active ingredient - action target – disease.” The STRING database was used to construct a protein interaction network and analyze related protein interaction relationships. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway and Gene Ontology (GO) biological process enrichment analysis were performed on the core targets. Additionally, Discovery Studio software was used for molecular docking verification of active pharmaceutical ingredients and disease targets.

Results

Thirty-seven active components of Simiao powder were screened, including 106 common targets. The results of network analysis showed that the targets were mainly involved in regulating biological processes such as cell metabolism and apoptosis. Simiao powder components were predicted to exert their therapeutic effect on the AGE-RAGE signaling pathway in diabetic complications, IL-17 signaling pathway, TNF signaling pathway, Toll-like receptor signaling pathway, and HIF-1 signaling pathway. The molecular docking results showed that the active components of Simiao powder had a good match with the targets of IL1B, MMP9, CXCL8, MAPK8, JUN, IL6, MAPK1, EGF, VEGFA, AKT1, and PTGS2.

Conclusion

Simiao powder has multisystem, multicomponent, and multitarget characteristics in treating knee osteoarthritis. Its possible mechanism of action includes inhibiting the inflammatory response, regulating immune function, and resisting oxidative stress to control the occurrence and development of the disease. Quercetin, wogonin, kaempferol, beta-sitosterol, and other active ingredients may be the material basis for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis.

Atractylenolides, essential components of Atractylodes-based traditional herbal medicines: Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties

The rhizome of the plant Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz is the major constituent of the Traditional Chinese Medicine Baizhu, frequently used to treat gastro-intestinal diseases. Many traditional medicine prescriptions based on Baizhu and the similar preparation Cangzhu are used in China, Korea and Japan as Qi-booster. These preparations contain atractylenolides, a small group of sesquiterpenoids endowed with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Atractylenolides I, II and III also display significant anticancer properties, reviewed here. The capacity of AT-I/II/IIII to inhibit cell proliferation and to induce cancer cell death have been analyzed, together with their effects of angiogenesis, metastasis, cell differentiation and stemness. The immune-modulatory properties of ATs are discussed. AT-I has been tested clinically for the treatment of cancer-induced cachexia with encouraging results. ATs, alone or combined with cytotoxic drugs, could be useful to treat cancers or to reduce side effects of radio and chemotherapy. Several signaling pathways have been implicated in their multi-targeted mechanisms of action, in particular those involving the central regulators TLR4, NFκB and Nrf2. A drug-induced reduction of inflammatory cytokines production (TNFα, IL-6) also characterizes these molecules which are generally weakly cytotoxic and well tolerated in vivo. Inhibition of Janus kinases (notably JAK2 and JAK3 targeted by AT-I and AT-III, respectively) has been postulated. Information about their metabolism and toxicity are limited but the long-established traditional use of the Atractylodes and the diversity of anticancer effects reported with AT-I and AT-III should encourage further studies with these molecules and structurally related natural products.

Genome survey sequencing of Atractylodes lancea and identification of its SSR markers

Atractylodes lancea (Thunb.) DC. is a traditional Chinese medicine rich in sesquiterpenes that has been widely used in China and Japan for the treatment of viral infections. Despite its important pharmacological value, genomic information regarding A. lancea is currently unavailable. In the present study, the whole genome sequence of A. lancea was obtained using an Illumina sequencing platform. The results revealed an estimated genome size for A. lancea of 4,159.24 Mb, with 2.28% heterozygosity, and a repeat rate of 89.2%, all of which indicate a highly heterozygous genome. Based on the genomic data of A. lancea, 27,582 simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers were identified. The differences in representation among nucleotide repeat types were large, e.g., the mononucleotide repeat type was the most abundant (54.74%) while the pentanucleotide repeats were the least abundant (0.10%), and sequence motifs GA/TC (31.17%) and TTC/GAA (7.23%) were the most abundant among the dinucleotide and trinucleotide repeat motifs, respectively. A total of 93,434 genes matched known genes in common databases including 48,493 genes in the Gene Ontology (GO) database and 34,929 genes in the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) database. This is the first report to sequence and characterize the whole genome of A. lancea and will provide a theoretical basis and reference for further genome-wide deep sequencing and SSR molecular marker development of A. lancea.

Isoliquiritigenin Derivative Regulates miR-374a/BAX Axis to Suppress Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Tumorigenesis and Development

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a subtype of breast cancer that accounts for the largest proportion of breast cancer-related deaths. Thus, it is imperative to search for novel drug candidates with potent anti-TNBC effects. Recent studies suggest that isoliquiritigenin (ISL) can significantly suppress the growth, migration, and invasion of breast cancer cells. We previously synthesized ISL derivatives and found that 3′,4′,5′,4″-tetramethoxychalcone (TMC) inhibits TNBC cell proliferation to a greater degree than ISL. The present study aimed to investigate the mechanisms underlying the anti-TNBC effects of TMC in vitro and in vivo. We show that TMC significantly inhibits the proliferative, migratory, and invasive abilities of MDA-MB-231 and BT549 cells. TMC induces apoptosis through the upregulation of Bax and downregulation of Bcl-2. PCR arrays demonstrate a significant decrease in miR-374a expression in TNBC cells after 24-h TMC treatment. MiR-374a is overexpressed in TNBC cells and has oncogenic properties. Real-time PCR analysis confirmed that TMC inhibits miR-374a in a dose-dependent manner, and luciferase assays confirmed that BAX is targeted by miR-374a. Further, we show that TMC increases Bax protein and mRNA levels by inhibiting miR-374a. TMC also attenuates TNBC tumor volumes and weights in vivo. These results demonstrate that TMC inhibits TNBC cell proliferation, foci formation, migration, invasion, and tumorigenesis, suggesting its potential to serve as a novel drug for treating TNBC through miR-374a repression.

Atractylenolide I inhibits colorectal cancer cell proliferation by affecting metabolism and stemness via AKT/mTOR signaling

BACKGROUND

Atractylenolide I (ATL-1) is a natural herbal compound used in traditional Chinese medicine that has exhibited anti-cancer properties. The anti-tumorigenic activity of ATL-1 against colorectal cancer (CRC) and the underlying signaling pathways involved in its mechanisms are examined here.

HYPOTHESIS

ATL-1 exerts therapeutic effect against CRC by disrupting glucose metabolism and cancer stem cell maintenance via AKT/mTOR pathway regulation.

STUDY DESIGN

In vitro studies were performed in COLO205 and HCT116 CRC cell lines and in vivo studies were conducted in a mouse xenograft model of CRC tumor.

METHODS

CRC cells were treated with ATL-1 at various concentrations, with or without inhibitors of AKT or mTOR. Cell proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, stemness maintenance, glucose metabolism, and AKT/mTOR signaling were evaluated. CRC tumor-xenografted mice were treated with an AKT inhibitor and/or ATL-1, and glucose metabolism and stemness maintenance were examined in tumor tissues.

RESULTS

ATL-1 significantly inhibited the invasion of CRC cells by inducing their apoptosis, possibly via the excessive production of reactive oxygen species. Glucose metabolism (Warburg effect) was also altered and stem-like traits were suppressed by ATL-1. In addition, ATL-1 effectively acted as an inhibitor or AKT/mTOR by downregulating the phosphorylation of proteins related to the AKT/mTOR pathway. In vivo studies showed that tumor weight and volume were reduced by ATL-1 and that aerobic glycolysis, stemness maintenance, and AKT/mTOR activation were impaired by ATL-1 in colorectal tumors.

CONCLUSIONS

ATL-1 acts as an effective agent to suppress colorectal tumor progression, mainly by inhibiting CRC cell proliferation through altering apoptosis, glucose metabolism, and stem-like behavior. These processes were mediated by the AKT/mTOR signaling pathway both in vitro and in vivo. ATL-1 may be a potential agent to be used in molecular-targeted strategies for cancer treatment.

Microscopic Characteristic and Chemical Composition Analysis of Three Medicinal Plants and Surface Frosts

The accumulation of chemical constituents of some medicinal plants, such as Paeonia ostii T. Hong et J. X. Zhang, Houpoëa officinalis (Rehder and E. H. Wilson) N. H. Xia and C. Y. Wu. and Atractylodes lancea (Thunb.) DC, can precipitate on the surface and form frosts after natural or artificial intervention. The characteristics of these three medicinal plants and their frosts were analyzed by light microscope, polarizing microscope, stereomicroscope, and metalloscope. The results of ordinary Raman of P. ostii and H. officinalis showed that the frosts of P. ostii matched paeonol, while that of H. officinalis matched magnolol and honokiol. In P. ostii and its frost, 19 peaks were identified by UPLC-Q/TOF-MS, and the main component was paeonol. Eleven components were identified in H. officinalis and its frosts, and the main components were magnolol and honokiol. A. lancea and its frosts were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), 21 were identified, and its main components were hinesol and β-eudesmol. These three medicinal plants accumulate compounds and precipitate frosts on the surface. The results show that the components of the frosts provide a basis for quality evaluation and research on similar medicinal plants, and reveals the scientific connotation of "taking the medicinal materials' precipitated frosts as the best" of P. ostii, H. officinalis, and A. lancea, to some extent.

Anti-inflammatory activities of Sigesbeckia glabrescens Makino: combined in vitro and in silico investigations

BACKGROUND

Sigesbeckia glabrescens Makino (SG) is one of the important plant origins of Sigesbeckiae herba and has been widely used for the treatment of chronic inflammatory diseases in China. However, the underlying anti-inflammatory mechanism of SG is rarely investigated and reported. There are more than 40 kinds of chemical constituents in SG, but the action of the bioactive compounds of SG is still unclear. Therefore, we aimed to systemically investigate the mechanisms behind the anti-inflammatory properties of SG by combining in vitro and in silico investigations.

METHODS

Cytotoxicity was measured using the 3-[4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl]-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assays. Nitric oxide (NO) release was detected using the Griess assay. The secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines and the expression of relevant proteins were assessed using ELISA kits and Western blots, respectively. Molecular docking was performed and scored using AutoDock via a comparison with the molecular docking of N-acetyl-d-glucosamine (NAG).

RESULTS

In lipopolysaccharides (LPS)-stimulated macrophages, SG significantly inhibited NO, MCP-1, and IL-6 secretion; iNOS expression; and NF-κB activation but did not significantly affect MAPK signalling (p38, ERK, and JNK). Moreover, the results from the molecular docking prediction suggested that over 10 compounds in SG could likely target TLR4, p105, and p65.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that the anti-inflammatory effects of SG are highly related to the inactivation of NF-κB. Moreover, this study provides a novel approach to investigate the effects of herbal medicine using combined in vitro and in silico investigations.