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Wang M, Tang HP, Wang S, Hu WJ, Li JY, Yu AQ, Bai QX, Yang BY, Kuang HX. Acorus tatarinowii Schott: A Review of Its Botany, Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry, and Pharmacology. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28114525. [PMID: 37299001 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28114525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Acorus tatarinowii Schott (A. tatarinowii) is a natural medicinal plant. It plays an indispensable role in the treatment of diseases by the empirical medicine system and has achieved remarkable curative effects. A. tatarinowii is often used to treat various diseases, such as depression, epilepsy, fever, dizziness, heartache, stomachache, etc. More than 160 compounds of different structural types have been identified in A. tatarinowii, including phenylpropanoids, terpenoids, lignans, flavonoids, alkaloids, amides, and organic acids. These bioactive ingredients make A. tatarinowii remarkable for its pharmacological effects, including antidepressant, antiepileptic, anticonvulsant, antianxiety, neuroprotective, antifatigue, and antifungal effects, improving Alzheimer's disease, and so on. It is noteworthy that A. tatarinowii has been widely used in the treatment of brain diseases and nervous system diseases and has achieved satisfactory therapeutic effects. This review focused on the research publications of A. tatarinowii and aimed to summarize the advances in the botany, traditional uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacology, which will provide a reference for further studies and applications of A. tatarinowii.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Wang
- Key Laboratory of Basic and Application Research of Beiyao, Ministry of Education, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Hai-Peng Tang
- Key Laboratory of Basic and Application Research of Beiyao, Ministry of Education, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Shuang Wang
- Key Laboratory of Basic and Application Research of Beiyao, Ministry of Education, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Wen-Jing Hu
- Key Laboratory of Basic and Application Research of Beiyao, Ministry of Education, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Jia-Yan Li
- Key Laboratory of Basic and Application Research of Beiyao, Ministry of Education, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Ai-Qi Yu
- Key Laboratory of Basic and Application Research of Beiyao, Ministry of Education, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Qian-Xiang Bai
- Key Laboratory of Basic and Application Research of Beiyao, Ministry of Education, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Bing-You Yang
- Key Laboratory of Basic and Application Research of Beiyao, Ministry of Education, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Hai-Xue Kuang
- Key Laboratory of Basic and Application Research of Beiyao, Ministry of Education, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China
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Xu Z, Zhou X, Hong X, Wang S, Wei J, Huang J, Ji L, Yang Y, Efferth T, Hong C, Li C. Essential oil of Acorus tatarinowii Schott inhibits neuroinflammation by suppressing NLRP3 inflammasome activation in 3 × Tg-AD transgenic mice. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 112:154695. [PMID: 36774844 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2023.154695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2022] [Revised: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Shi chang pu (Acorus tatarinowii Schott) is a herbal used in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD) in China. The essential oil of Shi chang pu (SCP-oil) is the main active component. However, its effects on the neuroinflammation of AD have not been well studied. PURPOSE Neuroinflammation mediated by the NLRP3 inflammasome plays a crucial role in AD. This study was designed to evaluate the effect of SCP-oil on cognitive impairment of AppSwe/PSEN1M146V/MAPTP301L triple transgenic (3 × Tg-AD) mice model and investigate the mechanism underlying its anti-inflammation effects. METHODS Thirty-two 3 × Tg-AD mice at 12 months and 8 wild-type B6 mice were used for this experiment. The 3 × Tg-AD mice were administered with SCP-oil or donepezil hydrochloride for 8 weeks. Morris water maze test and step-down test were used to evaluate the cognitive ability of mice. The pathological changes, neuroinflammation, and the NLRP3 inflammasome related-protein of AD mice were detected by histomorphological examination, TUNEL staining, immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry, qRT-PCR, Elisa, and western blot assays. RESULTS SCP-oil treatment attenuated cognitive dysfunction of 3 × Tg-AD mice. Moreover, SCP-oil also ameliorated characteristics pathological of AD, such as pathological changes damage, deposition of Aβ, phosphorylation of Tau, and neuronal loss. Additionally, SCP-oil treatment alleviated the neuroinflammation and inhibited phosphorylation of IKKβ, NF-κB, and NLRP3 inflammasome related-protein NLRP3, ASC, Caspase-1, cleaved-Caspase-1, and GSDMD-N in the hippocampus of 3 × Tg-AD mice. CONCLUSION Overall, SCP-oil contributed to neuroprotection in 3 × Tg-AD mice by reduced activation of NLRP3 inflammasome by inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiwei Xu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Xiaojie Zhou
- Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Xiao Hong
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Sichen Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Jiale Wei
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Junhao Huang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Liting Ji
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Yuanxiao Yang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Thomas Efferth
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz 55128, Germany
| | - Chunlan Hong
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China.
| | - Changyu Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China; Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China.
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Bai H, Xue Z, Zhang W, Feng C, Zhou Z, Hu S, Zhang Y, Qin Q, Wu Y, Sun X, Zhou Y, Wang N. α-Asarone alleviates allergic asthma by stabilizing mast cells through inhibition of ERK/JAK2-STAT3 pathway. Biofactors 2023; 49:140-152. [PMID: 35861676 DOI: 10.1002/biof.1879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Asthma is a heterogeneous disease related to numerous inflammatory cells, among which mast cells play an important role in the early stages of asthma. Therefore, treatment of asthma targeting mast cells is of great research value. α-Asarone is an important anti-inflammatory component of the traditional Chinese medicine Acorus calamus L, which has a variety of medicinal values. To investigate whether α-asarone can alleviate asthma symptoms and its mechanism. In this study, we investigated the effect of α-asarone on mast cell activation in vivo and in vitro. The release of chemokines or cytokines, AHR (airway hyperresponsiveness), and mast cell activation were examined in a mast cell-dependent asthma model. Western blot was performed to determine the underlying pathway. α-Asarone inhibited the degranulation of LAD2 (laboratory allergic disease 2) cells and decreased IL-8, MCP-1, histamine, and TNF-α in vitro. α-Asarone reduced paw swelling and leakage of Evans blue, as well as serum histamine, CCL2, and TNF-α in vivo. In the asthma model, α-asarone showed an inhibitory effect on AHR, inflammation, mast cells activation, infiltration of inflammatory cells, and the release of IL-5 and IL-13 in lung tissue. α-Asarone decreased the levels of phosphorylated JAK2, phosphorylated ERK, and phosphorylated STAT3 induced by C48/80. Our findings suggest that α-asarone alleviates allergic asthma by inhibiting mast cell activation through the ERK/JAK2-STAT3 pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haoyun Bai
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Zhuoyin Xue
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Wen Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Chaohua Feng
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Zhenqi Zhou
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Shiling Hu
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yongjing Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Qiaohong Qin
- Institute of Basic and Translational Medicine, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yuanyuan Wu
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xiuzhen Sun
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yuhan Zhou
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Nan Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
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Kim CJ, Kwak TY, Bae MH, Shin HK, Choi BT. Therapeutic Potential of Active Components from Acorus gramineus and Acorus tatarinowii in Neurological Disorders and Their Application in Korean Medicine. J Pharmacopuncture 2022; 25:326-343. [PMID: 36628348 PMCID: PMC9806153 DOI: 10.3831/kpi.2022.25.4.326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurological disorders represent a substantial healthcare burden worldwide due to population aging. Acorus gramineus Solander (AG) and Acorus tatarinowii Schott (AT), whose major component is asarone, have been shown to be effective in neurological disorders. This review summarized current information from preclinical and clinical studies regarding the effects of extracts and active components of AG and AT (e.g., α-asarone and β-asarone) on neurological disorders and biomedical targets, as well as the mechanisms involved. Databases, including PubMed, Embase, and RISS, were searched using the following keywords: asarone, AG, AT, and neurological disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, depression and anxiety, epilepsy, and stroke. Meta-analyses and reviews were excluded. A total of 873 studies were collected. A total of 89 studies were selected after eliminating studies that did not meet the inclusion criteria. Research on neurological disorders widely reported that extracts or active components of AG and AT showed therapeutic efficacy in treating neurological disorders. These components also possessed a wide array of neuroprotective effects, including reduction of pathogenic protein aggregates, antiapoptotic activity, modulation of autophagy, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, regulation of neurotransmitters, activation of neurogenesis, and stimulation of neurotrophic factors. Most of the included studies were preclinical studies that used in vitro and in vivo models, and only a few clinical studies have been performed. Therefore, this review summarizes the current knowledge on AG and AT therapeutic effects as a basis for further clinical studies, and clinical trials are required before these findings can be applied to human neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheol Ju Kim
- Department of Korean Medicine, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae Young Kwak
- Department of Korean Medicine, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Hyeok Bae
- Department of Korean Medicine, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Hwa Kyoung Shin
- Department of Korean Medicine, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Republic of Korea,Graduate Training Program of Korean Medical Therapeutics for Healthy Aging, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Republic of Korea,Corresponding Author Hwa Kyoung Shin, Department of Korean Medicine, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, 49 Busandaehak-ro, Mulgeum-eup, Yangsan 50612, Republic of Korea, Tel: +82-51-510-8476, E-mail:, Byung Tae Choi, Department of Korean Medicine, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, 49 Busandaehak-ro, Mulgeum-eup, Yangsan 50612, Republic of Korea, Tel: +82-51-510-8475, E-mail:
| | - Byung Tae Choi
- Department of Korean Medicine, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Republic of Korea,Graduate Training Program of Korean Medical Therapeutics for Healthy Aging, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Republic of Korea,Corresponding Author Hwa Kyoung Shin, Department of Korean Medicine, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, 49 Busandaehak-ro, Mulgeum-eup, Yangsan 50612, Republic of Korea, Tel: +82-51-510-8476, E-mail:, Byung Tae Choi, Department of Korean Medicine, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, 49 Busandaehak-ro, Mulgeum-eup, Yangsan 50612, Republic of Korea, Tel: +82-51-510-8475, E-mail:
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Bai D, Li X, Wang S, Zhang T, Wei Y, Wang Q, Dong W, Song J, Gao P, Li Y, Wang S, Dai L. Advances in extraction methods, chemical constituents, pharmacological activities, molecular targets and toxicology of volatile oil from Acorus calamus var. angustatus Besser. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1004529. [PMID: 36545308 PMCID: PMC9761896 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1004529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Acorus calamus var. angustatus Besser (ATT) is a traditional herb with a long medicinal history. The volatile oil of ATT (VOA) does possess many pharmacological activities. It can restore the vitality of the brain, nervous system and myocardial cells. It is used to treat various central system, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. It also showed antibacterial and antioxidant activity. Many studies have explored the benefits of VOA scientifically. This paper reviews the extraction methods, chemical components, pharmacological activities and toxicology of VOA. The molecular mechanism of VOA was elucidated. This paper will serve as a comprehensive resource for further carrying the VOA on improving its medicinal value and clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daoming Bai
- School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China,School of Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Xiaoyu Li
- School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China,School of Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Shengguang Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Tianyi Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Yumin Wei
- School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China,School of Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Qingquan Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China,School of Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Weichao Dong
- School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China,School of Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Jing Song
- Shandong Yuze Pharmaceutical Industry Technology Research Institute Co., Ltd, Dezhou, China
| | - Peng Gao
- School of Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Yanan Li
- School of Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China,*Correspondence: Long Dai, ; Shaoping Wang, ; Yanan Li,
| | - Shaoping Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China,*Correspondence: Long Dai, ; Shaoping Wang, ; Yanan Li,
| | - Long Dai
- School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China,*Correspondence: Long Dai, ; Shaoping Wang, ; Yanan Li,
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Zhang QZ, Zhong ZH, Hao D, Feng MN, Wang SC, Han QL, Bai Y, Xu D, Liao S, Xiao C, Zhang XL, Zheng X. Synthesis, crystal structure and bioactivities of α-asaronol. ACTA CRYSTALLOGRAPHICA SECTION C STRUCTURAL CHEMISTRY 2022; 78:265-270. [DOI: 10.1107/s2053229622003631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
α-Asaronol [or (E)-3′-hydroxyasarone; systematic name: (E)-3-(2,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl)prop-2-en-1-ol; C12H16O4] was synthesized towards the development of a potential antiepileptic drug. Following purification by recrystallization, single crystals of α-asaronol were obtained by a liquid interface diffusion method at room temperature. The product was characterized by 1H and 13C NMR, and FT–IR spectroscopic analysis. X-ray crystallography revealed the title crystal to belong to the orthorhombic space group P212121. Preliminary bioassays with mouse neuroblastoma N2a cells demonstrated the neuroprotective activities of the synthesized α-asaronol.
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Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Potential of α- and β-Asarone in the Treatment of Neurological Disorders. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11020281. [PMID: 35204164 PMCID: PMC8868500 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11020281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Revised: 01/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurological disorders are important causes of morbidity and mortality around the world. The increasing prevalence of neurological disorders, associated with an aging population, has intensified the societal burden associated with these diseases, for which no effective treatment strategies currently exist. Therefore, the identification and development of novel therapeutic approaches, able to halt or reverse neuronal loss by targeting the underlying causal factors that lead to neurodegeneration and neuronal cell death, are urgently necessary. Plants and other natural products have been explored as sources of safe, naturally occurring secondary metabolites with potential neuroprotective properties. The secondary metabolites α- and β-asarone can be found in high levels in the rhizomes of the medicinal plant Acorus calamus (L.). α- and β-asarone exhibit multiple pharmacological properties including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiapoptotic, anticancer, and neuroprotective effects. This paper aims to provide an overview of the current research on the therapeutic potential of α- and β-asarone in the treatment of neurological disorders, particularly neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), as well as cerebral ischemic disease, and epilepsy. Current research indicates that α- and β-asarone exert neuroprotective effects by mitigating oxidative stress, abnormal protein accumulation, neuroinflammation, neurotrophic factor deficit, and promoting neuronal cell survival, as well as activating various neuroprotective signalling pathways. Although the beneficial effects exerted by α- and β-asarone have been demonstrated through in vitro and in vivo animal studies, additional research is required to translate laboratory results into safe and effective therapies for patients with AD, PD, and other neurological and neurodegenerative diseases.
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Zhang J, Mu K, Yang P, Feng X, Zhang D, Fan X, Wang Q, Mao S. Synthesis, antiepileptic effects, and structure-activity relationships of α-asarone derivatives: In vitro and in vivo neuroprotective effect of selected derivatives. Bioorg Chem 2021; 115:105179. [PMID: 34332232 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2021.105179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Revised: 07/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
In the present study, we compared the antiepileptic effects of α-asarone derivatives to explore their structure-activity relationships using the PTZ-induced seizure model. Our research revealed that electron-donating methoxy groups in the 3,4,5-position on phenyl ring increased antiepileptic potency but the placement of other groups at different positions decreased activity. Besides, in allyl moiety, the optimal activity was reached with either an allyl or a 1-butenyl group in conjugation with the benzene ring. The compounds 5 and 19 exerted better neuroprotective effects against epilepsy in vitro (cell) and in vivo (mouse) models. This study provides valuable data for further exploration and application of these compounds as potential anti-seizure medicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Drug Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Keman Mu
- Key Laboratory of Drug Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Peng Yang
- Key Laboratory of Drug Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Xinqian Feng
- Key Laboratory of Drug Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Di Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Drug Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Xiangyu Fan
- Key Laboratory of Drug Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Qiantao Wang
- Key Laboratory of Drug Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
| | - Shengjun Mao
- Key Laboratory of Drug Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
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Shang X, Ji X, Dang J, Wang L, Sun C, Liu K, Sik A, Jin M. α-asarone induces cardiac defects and QT prolongation through mitochondrial apoptosis pathway in zebrafish. Toxicol Lett 2020; 324:1-11. [PMID: 32035120 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2020.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2019] [Revised: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
α-asarone is a natural phenylpropene found in several plants, which are widely used for flavoring foods and treating diseases. Previous studies have demonstrated that α-asarone has many pharmacological functions, while some reports indicated its toxicity. However, little is known about its cardiovascular effects. This study investigated developmental toxicity of α-asarone in zebrafish, especially the cardiotoxicity. Zebrafish embryos were exposed to different concentrations of α-asarone (1, 3, 5, 10, and 30 μM). Developmental toxicity assessments revealed that α-asarone did not markedly affect mortality and hatching rate. In contrast, there was a concentration-dependent increase in malformation rate of zebrafish treated with α-asarone. The most representative cardiac defects were increased heart malformation rate, pericardial edema areas, sinus venosus-bulbus arteriosus distance, and decreased heart rate. Notably, we found that α-asarone impaired the cardiac function of zebrafish by prolonging the mean QTc duration and causing T-wave abnormalities. The expressions of cardiac development-related key transcriptional regulators tbx5, nkx2.5, hand2, and gata5 were all changed under α-asarone exposure. Further investigation addressing the mechanism indicated that α-asarone triggered apoptosis mainly in the heart region of zebrafish. Moreover, the elevated expression of puma, cyto C, afap1, caspase 3, and caspase 9 in treated zebrafish suggested that mitochondrial apoptosis is likely to be the main reason for α-asarone induced cardiotoxicity. These findings revealed the cardiac developmental toxicity of α-asarone, expanding our knowledge about the toxic effect of α-asarone on living organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueliang Shang
- School of Psychology, North China University of Science and Technology, 21 Bohai Road, Tang'shan 063210, Hebei Province, PR China
| | - Xiuna Ji
- Biology Institute, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), 28789 East Jingshi Road, Ji'nan 250103, Shandong Province, PR China; Engineering Research Center of Zebrafish Models for Human Diseases and Drug Screening of Shandong Province, 28789 East Jingshi Road, Ji'nan 250103, Shandong Province, PR China
| | - Jiao Dang
- Biology Institute, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), 28789 East Jingshi Road, Ji'nan 250103, Shandong Province, PR China; Engineering Research Center of Zebrafish Models for Human Diseases and Drug Screening of Shandong Province, 28789 East Jingshi Road, Ji'nan 250103, Shandong Province, PR China
| | - Lizhen Wang
- Biology Institute, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), 28789 East Jingshi Road, Ji'nan 250103, Shandong Province, PR China; Engineering Research Center of Zebrafish Models for Human Diseases and Drug Screening of Shandong Province, 28789 East Jingshi Road, Ji'nan 250103, Shandong Province, PR China
| | - Chen Sun
- Biology Institute, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), 28789 East Jingshi Road, Ji'nan 250103, Shandong Province, PR China; Engineering Research Center of Zebrafish Models for Human Diseases and Drug Screening of Shandong Province, 28789 East Jingshi Road, Ji'nan 250103, Shandong Province, PR China
| | - Kechun Liu
- Biology Institute, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), 28789 East Jingshi Road, Ji'nan 250103, Shandong Province, PR China; Engineering Research Center of Zebrafish Models for Human Diseases and Drug Screening of Shandong Province, 28789 East Jingshi Road, Ji'nan 250103, Shandong Province, PR China
| | - Attila Sik
- Institute of Physiology, Medical School, University of Pecs, Pecs H-7624, Hungary; Szentagothai Research Centre, University of Pecs, Pecs H-7624, Hungary; Institute of Clinical Sciences, Medical School, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom
| | - Meng Jin
- Biology Institute, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), 28789 East Jingshi Road, Ji'nan 250103, Shandong Province, PR China; Engineering Research Center of Zebrafish Models for Human Diseases and Drug Screening of Shandong Province, 28789 East Jingshi Road, Ji'nan 250103, Shandong Province, PR China.
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da Fonsêca DV, da Silva Maia Bezerra Filho C, Lima TC, de Almeida RN, de Sousa DP. Anticonvulsant Essential Oils and Their Relationship with Oxidative Stress in Epilepsy. Biomolecules 2019; 9:E835. [PMID: 31817682 PMCID: PMC6995584 DOI: 10.3390/biom9120835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2019] [Revised: 11/23/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy is a most disabling neurological disorder affecting all age groups. Among the various mechanisms that may result in epilepsy, neuronal hyperexcitability and oxidative injury produced by an excessive formation of free radicals may play a role in the development of this pathology. Therefore, new treatment approaches are needed to address resistant conditions that do not respond fully to current antiepileptic drugs. This paper reviews studies on the anticonvulsant activities of essential oils and their chemical constituents. Data from studies published from January 2011 to December 2018 was selected from the PubMed database for examination. The bioactivity of 19 essential oils and 16 constituents is described. Apiaceae and Lamiaceae were the most promising botanical families due to the largest number of reports about plant species from these families that produce anticonvulsant essential oils. Among the evaluated compounds, β-caryophyllene, borneol, eugenol and nerolidol were the constituents that presented antioxidant properties related to anticonvulsant action. These data show the potential of these natural products as health promoting agents and use against various types of seizure disorders. Their properties on oxidative stress may contribute to the control of this neurological condition. However, further studies on the toxicological profile and mechanism of action of essential oils are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diogo Vilar da Fonsêca
- College of Medicine, Federal University of the Vale do São Francisco, Paulo Afonso, BA, CEP 48607-190, Brazil;
| | | | - Tamires Cardoso Lima
- Department of Pharmacy, Federal University of Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, CEP 49100-000, Brazil;
| | - Reinaldo Nóbrega de Almeida
- Department of Physiology and Pathology, Universidade Federal da Paraíba, João Pessoa, PB, CEP 58051-970, Brazil;
| | - Damião Pergentino de Sousa
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universidade Federal da Paraíba, João Pessoa, PB, CEP 58051-970, Brazil;
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Lee JE, Kim N, Yeo JY, Seo DG, Kim S, Lee JS, Hwang KW, Park SY. Anti-Amyloidogenic Effects of Asarone Derivatives From Perilla frutescens Leaves against Beta-Amyloid Aggregation and Nitric Oxide Production. Molecules 2019; 24:molecules24234297. [PMID: 31775356 PMCID: PMC6930631 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24234297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Revised: 11/19/2019] [Accepted: 11/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive, neurodegenerative brain disorder associated with loss of memory and cognitive function. Beta-amyloid (Aβ) aggregates, in particular, are known to be highly neurotoxic and lead to neurodegeneration. Therefore, blockade or reduction of Aβ aggregation is a promising therapeutic approach in AD. We have previously reported an inhibitory effect of the methanol extract of Perilla frutescens (L.) Britton (Lamiaceae) and its hexane fraction on Aβ aggregation. Here, the hexane fraction of P. frutescens was subjected to diverse column chromatography based on activity-guided isolation methodology. This approach identified five asarone derivatives including 2,3-dimethoxy-5-(1E)-1-propen-1-yl-phenol (1), β-asarone (2), 3-(2,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl)-(2E)-2-propen-1-ol (3), asaronealdehyde (4), and α-asarone (5). All five asarone derivatives efficiently reduced the aggregation of Aβ and disaggregated preformed Aβ aggregates in a dose-dependent manner as determined by a Thioflavin T (ThT) fluorescence assay. Furthermore, asarone derivatives protected PC12 cells from Aβ aggregate-induced toxicity by reducing the aggregation of Aβ, and significantly reduced NO production from LPS-stimulated BV2 microglial cells. Taken together, these results suggest that asarone derivatives derived from P. frutescens are neuroprotective and have the prophylactic and therapeutic potential in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae Eun Lee
- College of Pharmacy, Dankook University, 119 Dandae-ro, Dongnam-gu, Cheonan-si, Chungnam 31116, Korea; (J.E.L.); (N.K.); (J.Y.Y.); (D.-G.S.); (S.K.); (J.-S.L.)
| | - Nayeon Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Dankook University, 119 Dandae-ro, Dongnam-gu, Cheonan-si, Chungnam 31116, Korea; (J.E.L.); (N.K.); (J.Y.Y.); (D.-G.S.); (S.K.); (J.-S.L.)
| | - Ji Yun Yeo
- College of Pharmacy, Dankook University, 119 Dandae-ro, Dongnam-gu, Cheonan-si, Chungnam 31116, Korea; (J.E.L.); (N.K.); (J.Y.Y.); (D.-G.S.); (S.K.); (J.-S.L.)
| | - Dae-Gun Seo
- College of Pharmacy, Dankook University, 119 Dandae-ro, Dongnam-gu, Cheonan-si, Chungnam 31116, Korea; (J.E.L.); (N.K.); (J.Y.Y.); (D.-G.S.); (S.K.); (J.-S.L.)
| | - Sunggun Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Dankook University, 119 Dandae-ro, Dongnam-gu, Cheonan-si, Chungnam 31116, Korea; (J.E.L.); (N.K.); (J.Y.Y.); (D.-G.S.); (S.K.); (J.-S.L.)
| | - Jae-Sun Lee
- College of Pharmacy, Dankook University, 119 Dandae-ro, Dongnam-gu, Cheonan-si, Chungnam 31116, Korea; (J.E.L.); (N.K.); (J.Y.Y.); (D.-G.S.); (S.K.); (J.-S.L.)
| | - Kwang Woo Hwang
- College of Pharmacy, Chung-Ang University, 84 Heukseok-ro, Dongjak-gu, Seoul 06974, Korea;
| | - So-Young Park
- College of Pharmacy, Dankook University, 119 Dandae-ro, Dongnam-gu, Cheonan-si, Chungnam 31116, Korea; (J.E.L.); (N.K.); (J.Y.Y.); (D.-G.S.); (S.K.); (J.-S.L.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-41-550-1434; Fax: +82-41-559-7899
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Jin M, Zhang B, Sun Y, Zhang S, Li X, Sik A, Bai Y, Zheng X, Liu K. Involvement of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ in anticonvulsant activity of α-asaronol against pentylenetetrazole-induced seizures in zebrafish. Neuropharmacology 2019; 162:107760. [PMID: 31493468 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2019.107760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2019] [Revised: 07/06/2019] [Accepted: 09/02/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In mammals, peroxisome proliferators activated receptors (PPARs), the nuclear hormone receptors, have been reported to be involved in seizure control. Selective agonists and antagonists of PPARs raise seizure thresholds and suppress seizures, respectively. In this study, we evaluated the anticonvulsant effects of α-asaronol, a metabolic product of α-asarone, on pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)-induced seizures in zebrafish and investigated the underlying mechanisms. As a result, α-asaronol ameliorated seizures with increase of seizure latency, as well as decrease of seizure-like behavior, c-fos expression, and abnormal neuronal discharge in a concentration dependent manner. By comparing gene expression profiles of zebrafish undergoing seizures and α-asaronol pretreated zebrafish, we found that α-asaronol attenuate seizures through increase of PPAR γ expression, while PPAR γ antagonist GW9662 inhibit the anti-seizures actions of α-asaronol. Moreover, molecular docking simulation implied the physical interaction between α-asaronol and PPAR γ. The overall results indicated that the anticonvulsant effects of α-asaronol are regulated through PPAR γ-mediated pathway, which shed light on development of α-asaronol as a potential antiepileptic drug. In addition, it is for first time to report that PPAR γ is associated with seizures in zebrafish, supporting previous evidence that zebrafish is a suitable alternative for studying seizures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Jin
- Biology Institute, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), 28789, East Jingshi Road, Ji'nan, Shandong Province, PR China; Engineering Research Center of Zebrafish Models for Human Diseases and Drug Screening of Shandong Province, 28789 East Jingshi Road, Ji'nan, 250103, Shandong Province, PR China; Key Laboratory for Biosensor of Shandong Province, 28789 East Jingshi Road, Ji'nan, 250103, Shandong Province, PR China.
| | - Baoyue Zhang
- Biology Institute, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), 28789, East Jingshi Road, Ji'nan, Shandong Province, PR China; Engineering Research Center of Zebrafish Models for Human Diseases and Drug Screening of Shandong Province, 28789 East Jingshi Road, Ji'nan, 250103, Shandong Province, PR China; Key Laboratory for Biosensor of Shandong Province, 28789 East Jingshi Road, Ji'nan, 250103, Shandong Province, PR China
| | - Ying Sun
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, The College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an, 710069, Shanxi Province, PR China; Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Natural Functional Molecule Chemistry of the Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Northwest University, Xi'an, Shanxi Province, 710069, PR China
| | - Shanshan Zhang
- Biology Institute, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), 28789, East Jingshi Road, Ji'nan, Shandong Province, PR China; Engineering Research Center of Zebrafish Models for Human Diseases and Drug Screening of Shandong Province, 28789 East Jingshi Road, Ji'nan, 250103, Shandong Province, PR China; Key Laboratory for Biosensor of Shandong Province, 28789 East Jingshi Road, Ji'nan, 250103, Shandong Province, PR China
| | - Xiang Li
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology of Natural Products (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, NO.44 West Culture Road, Ji'nan, 250012, Shandong Province, PR China
| | - Attila Sik
- Institute of Physiology, Medical School, University of Pecs, Pecs, H-7624, Hungary; Szentagothai Research Centre, University of Pecs, Pecs, H-7624, Hungary; Institute of Clinical Sciences, Medical School, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, United Kingdom
| | - Yajun Bai
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, The College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an, 710069, Shanxi Province, PR China; Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Natural Functional Molecule Chemistry of the Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Northwest University, Xi'an, Shanxi Province, 710069, PR China.
| | - Xiaohui Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, The College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an, 710069, Shanxi Province, PR China; Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Natural Functional Molecule Chemistry of the Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Northwest University, Xi'an, Shanxi Province, 710069, PR China.
| | - Kechun Liu
- Biology Institute, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), 28789, East Jingshi Road, Ji'nan, Shandong Province, PR China; Engineering Research Center of Zebrafish Models for Human Diseases and Drug Screening of Shandong Province, 28789 East Jingshi Road, Ji'nan, 250103, Shandong Province, PR China; Key Laboratory for Biosensor of Shandong Province, 28789 East Jingshi Road, Ji'nan, 250103, Shandong Province, PR China.
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The Effects of Various Essential Oils on Epilepsy and Acute Seizure: A Systematic Review. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2019; 2019:6216745. [PMID: 31239862 PMCID: PMC6556313 DOI: 10.1155/2019/6216745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2019] [Revised: 05/03/2019] [Accepted: 05/15/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Many essential oils (EOs) have anticonvulsant activity and might benefit people with epilepsy. Lemongrass, lavender, clove, dill, and other EOs containing constituents such as asarone, carvone, citral, eugenol, or linalool are good candidates for evaluation as antiepileptic drugs. On the other hand, some EOs have convulsant effects and may trigger seizures in both epileptic and healthy individuals. Internal use of EOs like sage, hyssop, rosemary, camphor, pennyroyal, eucalyptus, cedar, thuja, and fennel can cause epileptic seizures because they contain thujone, 1,8-cineole, camphor, or pinocamphone, which have been identified as convulsive agents. While more research is needed to confirm their mechanisms of action, it appears that the convulsant or anticonvulsant properties of essential oils are largely due to (1) their ability to modulate the GABAergic system of neurotransmission and (2) their capacity to alter ionic currents through ion channels. This review presents a systematic analysis of the current research on EOs and epilepsy, including human case studies, animal models, and in vitro studies.
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Das BK, Swamy AV, Koti BC, Gadad PC. Experimental evidence for use of Acorus calamus (asarone) for cancer chemoprevention. Heliyon 2019; 5:e01585. [PMID: 31193009 PMCID: PMC6513775 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2019.e01585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2018] [Revised: 04/20/2019] [Accepted: 04/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer is one of the major non-communicable diseases posing substantial challenges in both developing and developed countries. The options available for treatment of different cancer are associated with various limitations, including severe toxicity, drug resistance, poor outcomes and a high risk of relapse. Hence, an increased attention and necessity for screening of various phytochemicals from natural sources for superior and safer alternative has been ongoing for several decades. In recent years, phytochemicals like galantamine, erwinaze, rivastigmine, resveratrol from natural sources have been found to be important therapeutic targets for the treatment of various diseases including cancer, neurodegeneration, diabetes, and cardiovascular effects. Acorus calamus (Sweet flag), and/or its bioactive phytochemical alpha (α)-and beta (β)-asarone, is a well-known drug in the traditional system of medicine which possesses anti-tumor and chemo-preventive activities as evident from numerous pre-clinical studies both in-vitro and in-vivo. In this article, we critically review the current available scientific evidences of A. calamus and/or asarone for cancer chemoprevention based on preclinical in-vitro and in-vivo models. In addition, we also have compiled and discussed the molecular targets of mechanism(s) involved in the anti-cancer activity of A. calamus/asarone. Still, extensive in-vivo studies are necessary using various animal models to understand the molecular mechanism behind the pharmacological activity of the bioactive phytochemicals derived from A. calamus. It is strongly believed that the comprehensive evidence presented in this article could deliver a possible source for researchers to conduct future studies pertaining to A. calamus and/or its bioactive phytochemicals asarone for cancer chemoprevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhrigu Kumar Das
- KLE College of Pharmacy (A Constituent Unit of KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research, Belagavi), Vidyanagar, Hubballi, 580 031, Karnataka, India.,Off-campus Basic and Applied Sciences Research Centre of KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research at KLE College of Pharmacy, Vidyanagar, Hubballi, 580 031, Karnataka, India
| | - Ahm Viswanatha Swamy
- KLE College of Pharmacy (A Constituent Unit of KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research, Belagavi), Vidyanagar, Hubballi, 580 031, Karnataka, India
| | - Basavaraj C Koti
- KLE College of Pharmacy (A Constituent Unit of KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research, Belagavi), Vidyanagar, Hubballi, 580 031, Karnataka, India
| | - Pramod C Gadad
- KLE College of Pharmacy (A Constituent Unit of KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research, Belagavi), Vidyanagar, Hubballi, 580 031, Karnataka, India.,Off-campus Basic and Applied Sciences Research Centre of KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research at KLE College of Pharmacy, Vidyanagar, Hubballi, 580 031, Karnataka, India
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15
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Chellian R, Pandy V. Protective effect of α-asarone against nicotine-induced seizures in mice, but not by its interaction with nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. Biomed Pharmacother 2018; 108:1591-1595. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2018.09.137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2018] [Revised: 09/23/2018] [Accepted: 09/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
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16
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He X, Bai Y, Zeng M, Zhao Z, Zhang Q, Xu N, Qin F, Wei X, Zhao M, Wu N, Li Z, Zhang Y, Fan TP, Zheng X. Anticonvulsant activities of α-asaronol (( E )-3′-hydroxyasarone), an active constituent derived from α-asarone. Pharmacol Rep 2018; 70:69-74. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pharep.2017.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2016] [Revised: 07/25/2017] [Accepted: 08/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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17
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Liu HJ, Lai X, Xu Y, Miao JK, Li C, Liu JY, Hua YY, Ma Q, Chen Q. α-Asarone Attenuates Cognitive Deficit in a Pilocarpine-Induced Status Epilepticus Rat Model via a Decrease in the Nuclear Factor-κB Activation and Reduction in Microglia Neuroinflammation. Front Neurol 2017; 8:661. [PMID: 29312110 PMCID: PMC5735142 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2017.00661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2017] [Accepted: 11/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) is one of the most drug-resistant types of epilepsy with about 80% of TLE patients falling into this category. Increasing evidence suggests that neuroinflammation, which has a critical role in the epileptogenesis of TLE, is associated with microglial activation. Therefore, agents that act toward the alleviation in microglial activation and the attenuation of neuroinflammation are promising candidates to treat TLE. α-Asarone is a major active ingredient of the Acori Graminei Rhizoma used in Traditional Chinese Medicine, which has been used to improve various disease conditions including stroke and convulsions. In addition, an increasing number of studies suggested that α-asarone can attenuate microglia-mediated neuroinflammation. Thus, we hypothesized that α-asarone is a promising neuroprotective agent for the treatment of the TLE. Methods The present study evaluated the therapeutic effects of α-asarone on microglia-mediated neuroinflammation and neuroprotection in vitro and in vivo, using an untreated control group, a status epilepticus (SE)-induced group, and an SE-induced α-asarone pretreated group. A pilocarpine-induced rat model of TLE was established to investigate the neuroprotective effects of α-asarone in vivo. For the in vitro study, lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated primary cultured microglial cells were used. Results The results indicated that the brain microglial activation in the rats of the SE rat model led to important learning and memory deficit. Preventive treatment with α-asarone restrained microglial activation and reduced learning and memory deficit. In the in vitro studies, α-asarone significantly suppressed proinflammatory cytokine production in primary cultured microglial cells and attenuated the LPS-stimulated neuroinflammatory responses. Our mechanistic study revealed that α-asarone inhibited inflammatory processes by regulation the transcription levels of kappa-B, by blocking the degradation pathway of kappa B-alpha [inhibitor kappa B-alpha (IκB-α)] and kappa B-beta (IκB-β) kinase in both the SE rats and in primary cultured microglial cells. Conclusion Taken together, these data demonstrate that α-asarone is a promising neuroprotective agent for the prevention and treatment of microglia-mediated neuroinflammatory conditions including TLE, for which further assessment studies are pertinent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Juan Liu
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing, China
| | - Xin Lai
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing, China
| | - Yan Xu
- China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing, China
| | - Jing-Kun Miao
- China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing, China.,Center for Clinical Molecular Medicine, Chongqing, China
| | - Chun Li
- Department of Neonatology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing, China
| | - Jing-Ying Liu
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing, China
| | - Yuan-Yuan Hua
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing, China
| | - Qian Ma
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing, China
| | - Qixiong Chen
- Department of Neonatology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing, China
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Tian J, Tian Z, Qin SL, Zhao PY, Jiang X, Tian Z. Anxiolytic-like effects of α-asarone in a mouse model of chronic pain. Metab Brain Dis 2017; 32:2119-2129. [PMID: 28913780 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-017-0108-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2017] [Accepted: 09/06/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
α-asarone (ASR) is a major bioactive compound isolated from the rhizome of Acorus tatarinowii Schott and it has extensive biological effects. Clinically, anxiety disorder is a common comorbidity of chronic pain. However, limited information is available regarding the effects of ASR on chronic pain-related anxiety. This study aims to evaluate the anxiolytic effects of ASR in chronic pain mice. Chronic inflammatory pain was induced by hind-paw injection of complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA). Behavioral tests, western-blot analysis and whole-cell patch recordings were performed to evaluate the subsequent events. We found that ASR induced anxiolytic activities in CFA-injected mice but did not affect the nociceptive threshold. ASR administration reversed the up-regulation of GluR1-containing α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) receptors, NR2A-containing N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors and down-regulation of γ-aminobutyric acid A (GABAA) receptors in the basolateral amygdala (BLA) of CFA-injected mice. Electrophysiological data revealed that ASR treatment restored the balance between excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmissions, which was disturbed in the BLA of CFA-injected mice. Moreover, ASR prevented the hyper-excitability of pyramidal neurons in the BLA of chronic pain mice. Our results suggested that the anxiolytic effects of ASR were partially due to maintaining the balance between excitatory/inhibitory transmissions and attenuating neuronal hyper-excitability of excitatory neurons in the BLA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiao Tian
- Department of Pediatrics, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, China
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Zhen Tian
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
- Department of Pharmacy, The 154th Hospital of People's Liberation Army, Xinyang, 464000, China
| | - Shu-Li Qin
- Department of Pharmacy, The 154th Hospital of People's Liberation Army, Xinyang, 464000, China
| | - Pu-Yu Zhao
- Department of Pharmacy, The 154th Hospital of People's Liberation Army, Xinyang, 464000, China
| | - Xun Jiang
- Department of Pediatrics, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, China.
| | - Zhen Tian
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China.
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Chellian R, Pandy V, Mohamed Z. Pharmacology and toxicology of α- and β-Asarone: A review of preclinical evidence. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2017; 32:41-58. [PMID: 28732807 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2017.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2016] [Revised: 03/20/2017] [Accepted: 04/08/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Asarone is one of the most researched phytochemicals and is mainly present in the Acorus species and Guatteria gaumeri Greenman. In preclinical studies, both α- and β-asarone have been reported to have numerous pharmacological activities and at the same time, many studies have also revealed the toxicity of α- and β-asarone. PURPOSE The purpose of this comprehensive review is to compile and analyze the information related to the pharmacokinetic, pharmacological, and toxicological studies reported on α- and β-asarone using preclinical in vitro and in vivo models. Besides, the molecular targets and mechanism(s) involved in the biological activities of α- and β-asarone were discussed. METHODS Databases including PubMed, ScienceDirect and Google scholar were searched and the literature from the year 1960 to January 2017 was retrieved using keywords such as α-asarone, β-asarone, pharmacokinetics, toxicology, pharmacological activities (e.g. depression, anxiety). RESULTS Based on the data obtained from the literature search, the pharmacokinetic studies of α- and β-asarone revealed that their oral bioavailability in rodents is poor with a short plasma half-life. Moreover, the metabolism of α- and β-asarone occurs mainly through cytochrome-P450 pathways. Besides, both α- and/or β-asarone possess a wide range of pharmacological activities such as antidepressant, antianxiety, anti-Alzheimer's, anti-Parkinson's, antiepileptic, anticancer, antihyperlipidemic, antithrombotic, anticholestatic and radioprotective activities through its interaction with multiple molecular targets. Importantly, the toxicological studies revealed that both α- and β-asarone can cause hepatomas and might possess mutagenicity, genotoxicity, and teratogenicity. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, further preclinical studies are required to confirm the pharmacological properties of α-asarone against depression, anxiety, Parkinson's disease, psychosis, drug dependence, pain, inflammation, cholestasis and thrombosis. Besides, the anticancer effect of β-asarone should be further studied in different types of cancers using in vivo models. Moreover, further dose-dependent in vivo studies are required to confirm the toxicity of α- and β-asarone. Overall, this extensive review provides a detailed information on the preclinical pharmacological and toxicological activities of α-and β-asarone and this could be very useful for researchers who wish to conduct further preclinical studies using α- and β-asarone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ranjithkumar Chellian
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Vijayapandi Pandy
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Zahurin Mohamed
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Deng L, Wang Y, Gong T, Sun X, Zhang ZR. Dissolution and bioavailability enhancement of alpha-asarone by solid dispersions via oral administration. Drug Dev Ind Pharm 2017; 43:1817-1826. [PMID: 28665158 DOI: 10.1080/03639045.2017.1349783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Alpha (α)-asarone (1-propenyl-2,4,5-methoxybenzol) (ARE) has been extensively used to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD), bronchial asthma, pneumonia, and epilepsy. Due to its poor solubility and bioavailability, ARE was clinically administered via intravenous injection. However, severe allergies were often reported due to the presence of solublizers in the injection formulation. In our study, we sought to explore the biopharmaceutical classification of ARE, elucidate the mechanisms behind ARE absorption, and to develop a viable formulation to improve the oral bioavailability of ARE. ARE was not a P-glycoprotein substrate, which was absorbed in the passive mode without site specificity in the gastrointestinal tract. Solid dispersions prepared using hydrophilic matrix materials such as Pluronic F68, and polyethylene glycol (PEG) of varying molecular weights (PEG4K, PEG10K, and PEG20K) were proven to significantly improve the dissolution of ARE in vitro and the oral bioavailability of ARE in rats, which represent a promising strategy for the oral administration of ARE and other BCS II compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Deng
- a Key Laboratory of Drug Targeting and Delivery Systems , Sichuan University , Chengdu , China
| | - Yu Wang
- a Key Laboratory of Drug Targeting and Delivery Systems , Sichuan University , Chengdu , China
| | - Tao Gong
- a Key Laboratory of Drug Targeting and Delivery Systems , Sichuan University , Chengdu , China
| | - Xun Sun
- a Key Laboratory of Drug Targeting and Delivery Systems , Sichuan University , Chengdu , China
| | - Zhi-Rong Zhang
- a Key Laboratory of Drug Targeting and Delivery Systems , Sichuan University , Chengdu , China
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Herbal Compound "Jiedu Huayu" Reduces Liver Injury in Rats via Regulation of IL-2, TLR4, and PCNA Expression Levels. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2017; 2017:9819350. [PMID: 28197212 PMCID: PMC5288544 DOI: 10.1155/2017/9819350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2016] [Revised: 10/21/2016] [Accepted: 12/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Aim of the Study. To investigate the preventative effects of Jiedu Huayu (JDHY) on D-galactosamine (D-GalN) and lipopolysaccharide-induced acute liver failure (ALF) and to evaluate the possible mechanisms of action. Materials and Methods. ALF was induced in Wistar rats by administrating D-GalN (900 mg/kg) and lipopolysaccharide (10 μg/kg). After treatment with JDHY granules, the levels of blood alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, total bilirubin, and prothrombin time were determined. Proliferating cell nuclear antigen was detected by immunohistochemistry staining. The expression of interleukin-2 (IL-2) and toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) was examined by fluorescence quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and Western blot. Results. JDHY treatment dramatically improved liver function and increased survival rates in an ALF model in rats. We observed a decrease in IL-2 and TLR4 expression following treatment with JDHY in liver cells from ALF rats using qRT-PCR and Western blot analysis. Conclusion. We hypothesize that the therapeutic potential of JDHY for treating ALF is due to its modulatory effect on the suppression of inflammation and by promoting hepatocyte regeneration. Our results contribute towards validation of the traditional use of JDHY in the treatment of liver disease.
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Qiu G, Chen S, Guo J, Wu J, Yi YH. Alpha-asarone improves striatal cholinergic function and locomotor hyperactivity in Fmr1 knockout mice. Behav Brain Res 2016; 312:212-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2016.06.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2015] [Revised: 05/16/2016] [Accepted: 06/13/2016] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
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Salgado PRR, da Fonsêca DV, Braga RM, de Melo CGF, Andrade LN, de Almeida RN, de Sousa DP. Comparative Anticonvulsant Study of Epoxycarvone Stereoisomers. Molecules 2015; 20:19660-73. [PMID: 26528962 PMCID: PMC6332048 DOI: 10.3390/molecules201119649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2015] [Revised: 10/12/2015] [Accepted: 10/20/2015] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Stereoisomers of the monoterpene epoxycarvone (EC), namely (+)-cis-EC, (-)-cis-EC, (+)-trans-EC, and (-)-trans-EC, were comparatively evaluated for anticonvulsant activity in specific methodologies. In the pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)-induced anticonvulsant test, all of the stereoisomers (at 300 mg/kg) increased the latency to seizure onset, and afforded 100% protection against the death of the animals. In the maximal electroshock-induced seizures (MES) test, prevention of tonic seizures was also verified for all of the isomers tested. However, the isomeric forms (+) and (-)-trans-EC showed 25% and 12.5% inhibition of convulsions, respectively. In the pilocarpine-induced seizures test, all stereoisomers demonstrated an anticonvulsant profile, yet the stereoisomers (+) and (-)-trans-EC (at 300 mg/kg) showed a more pronounced effect. A strychnine-induced anticonvulsant test was performed, and none of the stereoisomers significantly increased the latency to onset of convulsions; the stereoisomers probably do not act in this pathway. However, the stereoisomers (+)-cis-EC and (+)-trans-EC greatly increased the latency to death of the animals, thus presenting some protection. The four EC stereoisomers show promise for anticonvulsant activity, an effect emphasized in the isomers (+)-cis-EC, (+)-trans-EC, and (-)-trans-EC for certain parameters of the tested methodologies. These results serve as support for further research and development of antiepileptic drugs from monoterpenes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Regina Rodrigues Salgado
- Instituto de Pesquisa em Fármacos e Medicamentos, Universidade Federal da Paraíba, CP 5009, João Pessoa, CEP 58051-900, PB, Brazil; (P.R.R.S.); (D.V.F.); (R.M.B.); (C.G.F.M.); (R.N.A.)
| | - Diogo Vilar da Fonsêca
- Instituto de Pesquisa em Fármacos e Medicamentos, Universidade Federal da Paraíba, CP 5009, João Pessoa, CEP 58051-900, PB, Brazil; (P.R.R.S.); (D.V.F.); (R.M.B.); (C.G.F.M.); (R.N.A.)
| | - Renan Marinho Braga
- Instituto de Pesquisa em Fármacos e Medicamentos, Universidade Federal da Paraíba, CP 5009, João Pessoa, CEP 58051-900, PB, Brazil; (P.R.R.S.); (D.V.F.); (R.M.B.); (C.G.F.M.); (R.N.A.)
| | - Cynthia Germoglio Farias de Melo
- Instituto de Pesquisa em Fármacos e Medicamentos, Universidade Federal da Paraíba, CP 5009, João Pessoa, CEP 58051-900, PB, Brazil; (P.R.R.S.); (D.V.F.); (R.M.B.); (C.G.F.M.); (R.N.A.)
| | - Luciana Nalone Andrade
- Departamento de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Sergipe, São Cristóvão-SE, CEP 49100-000, Brazil;
| | - Reinaldo Nóbrega de Almeida
- Instituto de Pesquisa em Fármacos e Medicamentos, Universidade Federal da Paraíba, CP 5009, João Pessoa, CEP 58051-900, PB, Brazil; (P.R.R.S.); (D.V.F.); (R.M.B.); (C.G.F.M.); (R.N.A.)
- Departamento de Fisiologia e Patologia, Universidade Federal da Paraíba, CP 5009, João Pessoa, CEP 58051-900, PB, Brazil
| | - Damião Pergentino de Sousa
- Instituto de Pesquisa em Fármacos e Medicamentos, Universidade Federal da Paraíba, CP 5009, João Pessoa, CEP 58051-900, PB, Brazil; (P.R.R.S.); (D.V.F.); (R.M.B.); (C.G.F.M.); (R.N.A.)
- Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal da Paraíba, CP 5009, João Pessoa, CEP 58051-900, PB, Brazil
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Liang ZH, Cheng XH, Ruan ZG, Wang H, Li SS, Liu J, Li GY, Tian SM. Protective effects of components of the Chinese herb grassleaf sweetflag rhizome on PC12 cells incubated with amyloid-beta42. Neural Regen Res 2015; 10:1292-7. [PMID: 26487858 PMCID: PMC4590243 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.162762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The major ingredients of grassleaf sweetflag rhizome are β-asarone and eugenol, which can cross the blood-brain barrier and protect neurons. This study aimed to observe the neuroprotective effects and mechanisms of β-asarone and eugenol, components of the Chinese herb grassleaf sweetflag rhizome, on PC12 cells. First, PC12 cells were cultured with different concentrations (between 1 × 10-10 M and 1 × 10-5 M) of β-asarone and eugenol. Survival rates of PC12 cells were not significantly affected. Second, PC12 cells incubated with amyloid-beta42, which reduced cell survival, were cultured under the same conditions (1 × 10-6 M β-asarone and eugenol). The survival rates of PC12 cells significantly increased, while expression levels of the mRNAs for the pro-apoptotic protein Bax decreased, and those for the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl mRNA increased. In addition, the combination of β-asarone with eugenol achieved better results than either component alone. Our experimental findings indicate that both β-asarone and eugenol protect PC12 cells through inhibiting apoptosis, and that the combination of the two is better than either alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zi-Hao Liang
- Department of Anatomy and Histology, Basic Medical College, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Xiao-Hui Cheng
- Department of Anatomy and Histology, Basic Medical College, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Zhi-Gang Ruan
- Department of Anatomy and Histology, Basic Medical College, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Han Wang
- Department of Anatomy and Histology, Basic Medical College, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Shan-Shan Li
- Department of Anatomy and Histology, Basic Medical College, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Jing Liu
- Department of Anatomy and Histology, Basic Medical College, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Guo-Ying Li
- Department of Anatomy and Histology, Basic Medical College, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Su-Min Tian
- Department of Physiology, Basic Medical College, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
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25
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Feng XL, Yu Y, Qin DP, Gao H, Yao XS. Acorus Linnaeus: a review of traditional uses, phytochemistry and neuropharmacology. RSC Adv 2015. [DOI: 10.1039/c4ra12049c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Acorus Linnaeus is a herb used in many ancient medicinal systems. Phytochemical and neuropharmacological studies have revealed that many beneficial compounds possessed anticonvulsant, antiepileptic, neuroprotective, memory enhancing, and sedative properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Lin Feng
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine & Natural Products
- College of Pharmacy
- Jinan University
- Guangzhou 510632
- P. R. China
| | - Yang Yu
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine & Natural Products
- College of Pharmacy
- Jinan University
- Guangzhou 510632
- P. R. China
| | - Da-Peng Qin
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine & Natural Products
- College of Pharmacy
- Jinan University
- Guangzhou 510632
- P. R. China
| | - Hao Gao
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine & Natural Products
- College of Pharmacy
- Jinan University
- Guangzhou 510632
- P. R. China
| | - Xin-Sheng Yao
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine & Natural Products
- College of Pharmacy
- Jinan University
- Guangzhou 510632
- P. R. China
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26
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Lee B, Sur B, Yeom M, Shim I, Lee H, Hahm DH. Alpha-Asarone, a Major Component of Acorus gramineus, Attenuates Corticosterone-Induced Anxiety-Like Behaviours via Modulating TrkB Signaling Process. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF PHYSIOLOGY & PHARMACOLOGY : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE KOREAN PHYSIOLOGICAL SOCIETY AND THE KOREAN SOCIETY OF PHARMACOLOGY 2014; 18:191-200. [PMID: 24976758 PMCID: PMC4071171 DOI: 10.4196/kjpp.2014.18.3.191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2013] [Revised: 03/18/2014] [Accepted: 04/12/2014] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
We investigated the anxiolytic-like activity of α-asarone (AAS) from Acorus gramineus in an experimental rat model of anxiety induced by repeated administration of the exogenous stress hormone corticosterone (CORT). The putative anxiolytic effect of AAS was studied in behavioral tests of anxiety, such as the elevated plus maze (EPM) test and the hole-board test (HBT) in rats. For 21 consecutive days, male rats received 50, 100, or 200 mg/kg AAS (i.p.) 30 min prior to a daily injection of CORT. Dysregulation of the HPA axis in response to the repeated CORT injections was confirmed by measuring serum levels of CORT and the expression of corticotrophin-releasing factor (CRF) in the hypothalamus. Daily AAS (200 mg/kg) administration increased open-arm exploration significantly in the EPM test, and it increased the duration of head dipping activity in the HBT. It also blocked the increase in tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) expression in the locus coeruleus (LC) and decreased mRNA expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and its receptor, TrkB, in the hippocampus. These results indicated that the administration of AAS prior to high-dose exogenous CORT significantly improved anxiety-like behaviors, which are associated with modification of the central noradrenergic system and with BDNF function in rats. The current finding may improve understanding of the neurobiological mechanisms responsible for changes in emotions induced by repeated administration of high doses of CORT or by elevated levels of hormones associated with chronic stress. Thus, AAS did exhibit an anxiolytic-like effects in animal models of anxiety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bombi Lee
- Acupuncture and Meridian Science Research Center, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 130-701, Korea
| | - Bongjun Sur
- The Graduate School of Basic Science of Korean Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 130-701, Korea
| | - Mijung Yeom
- Acupuncture and Meridian Science Research Center, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 130-701, Korea
| | - Insop Shim
- Acupuncture and Meridian Science Research Center, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 130-701, Korea. ; The Graduate School of Basic Science of Korean Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 130-701, Korea
| | - Hyejung Lee
- Acupuncture and Meridian Science Research Center, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 130-701, Korea. ; The Graduate School of Basic Science of Korean Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 130-701, Korea
| | - Dae-Hyun Hahm
- Acupuncture and Meridian Science Research Center, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 130-701, Korea. ; The Graduate School of Basic Science of Korean Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 130-701, Korea
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27
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Wang ZJ, Levinson SR, Sun L, Heinbockel T. Identification of both GABAA receptors and voltage-activated Na(+) channels as molecular targets of anticonvulsant α-asarone. Front Pharmacol 2014; 5:40. [PMID: 24653701 PMCID: PMC3949418 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2014.00040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2013] [Accepted: 02/20/2014] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Alpha (α)-asarone, a major effective component isolated from the Chinese medicinal herb Acorus tatarinowii, is clinically used as medication for treating epilepsy, cough, bronchitis, and asthma. In the present study, we demonstrated that α-asarone targets central nervous system GABAA receptor as well as voltage-gated Na(+) channels. Using whole-cell patch-clamp recording, α-asarone inhibited spontaneous firing of output neurons, mitral cells (MCs), in mouse olfactory bulb brain slice preparation and hyperpolarized the membrane potential of MCs. The inhibitory effect of α-asarone persisted in the presence of ionotropic glutamate receptor blockers but was eliminated after adding a GABAA receptor blocker, suggesting that GABAA receptors mediated the inhibition of MCs by α-asarone. This hypothesis was supported by the finding that α-asarone evoked an outward current, but did not influence inhibitory postsynaptic currents (IPSCs). In addition to inhibiting spontaneous firing, α-asarone also inhibited the Nav1.2 channel, a dominant rat brain Na(+) channel subtype. The effects of α-asarone on a defined Nav1.2 were characterized using transfected cells that stably expressed the Nav1.2 channel isoform. α-Asarone displayed strong tonic inhibition of Nav1.2 currents in a concentration- and membrane potential-dependent fashion. α-Asarone reduced channel availability in steady-state inactivation protocols by enhancing or stabilizing Na(+) channel inactivation. Both Na(+) channel blockade and activation of GABAA receptors provide a possible mechanism for the known anti-epileptic effects of α-asarone. It also suggests that α-asarone could benefit patients with cough possibly through inhibiting a Na(+) channel subtype to inhibit peripheral and/or central sensitization of cough reflexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ze-Jun Wang
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Howard University Washington, DC, USA
| | - Simon R Levinson
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Colorado Denver School of Medicine Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Liqin Sun
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Howard University Washington, DC, USA
| | - Thomas Heinbockel
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Howard University Washington, DC, USA
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Shin JW, Cheong YJ, Koo YM, Kim S, Noh CK, Son YH, Kang C, Sohn NW. α-Asarone Ameliorates Memory Deficit in Lipopolysaccharide-Treated Mice via Suppression of Pro-Inflammatory Cytokines and Microglial Activation. Biomol Ther (Seoul) 2014; 22:17-26. [PMID: 24596617 PMCID: PMC3936426 DOI: 10.4062/biomolther.2013.102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2013] [Revised: 01/07/2014] [Accepted: 01/10/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
α-Asarone exhibits a number of pharmacological actions including neuroprotective, anti-oxidative, anticonvulsive, and cognitive enhancing action. The present study investigated the effects of α-asarone on pro-inflammatory cytokines mRNA, microglial activation, and neuronal damage in the hippocampus and on learning and memory deficits in systemic lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated C57BL/6 mice. Varying doses of α-asarone was orally administered (7.5, 15, or 30 mg/kg) once a day for 3 days before the LPS (3 mg/kg) injection. α-Asarone significantly reduced TNF-α and IL-1β mRNA at 4 and 24 hours after the LPS injection at dose of 30 mg/kg. At 24 hours after the LPS injection, the loss of CA1 neurons, the increase of TUNEL-labeled cells, and the up-regulation of BACE1 expression in the hippocampus were attenuated by 30 mg/kg of α-asarone treatment. α-Asarone significantly reduced Iba1 protein expression in the hippocampal tissue at a dose of 30 mg/kg. α-Asarone did not reduce the number of Iba1-expressing microglia on immunohistochemistry but the average cell size and percentage areas of Iba1-expressing microglia in the hippocampus were significantly decreased by 30 mg/kg of α-asarone treatment. In the Morris water maze test, α-asarone significantly prolonged the swimming time spent in the target and peri-target zones. α-Asarone also significantly increased the number of target heading and memory score in the Morris water maze. The results suggest that inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines and microglial activation in the hippocampus by α-asarone may be one of the mechanisms for the α-asarone-mediated ameliorating effect on memory deficits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jung-Won Shin
- Department of East-West Medical Science, Graduate School of East-West Medical Science, Kyung Hee University, Yongin 446-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Jin Cheong
- Department of East-West Medical Science, Graduate School of East-West Medical Science, Kyung Hee University, Yongin 446-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong-Mo Koo
- Department of East-West Medical Science, Graduate School of East-West Medical Science, Kyung Hee University, Yongin 446-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Sooyong Kim
- Department of East-West Medical Science, Graduate School of East-West Medical Science, Kyung Hee University, Yongin 446-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Chung-Ku Noh
- Department of East-West Medical Science, Graduate School of East-West Medical Science, Kyung Hee University, Yongin 446-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Ha Son
- Department of East-West Medical Science, Graduate School of East-West Medical Science, Kyung Hee University, Yongin 446-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Chulhun Kang
- Department of East-West Medical Science, Graduate School of East-West Medical Science, Kyung Hee University, Yongin 446-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Nak-Won Sohn
- Department of East-West Medical Science, Graduate School of East-West Medical Science, Kyung Hee University, Yongin 446-701, Republic of Korea
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