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Li N, Yang C, Xia J, Wang W, Xiong W. Molecular mechanisms of Codonopsis pilosula in inhibiting hepatocellular carcinoma growth and metastasis. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 128:155338. [PMID: 38520835 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2024.155338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Liver cancer, one of the most common types of cancer worldwide, accounts for millions of cases annually. With its multi-target and wide-ranging therapeutic effects, traditional Chinese medicine has emerged as a potential approach for treating various tumors. Codonopsis pilosula, a traditional herb, is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. In this study, we investigated the potential molecular mechanisms of Codonopsis pilosula in regulating the inhibition of CDK1 and the modulation of PDK1/β-catenin, which are involved in hepatocellular carcinoma growth and metastasis. STUDY DESIGN/METHODS Firstly, we screened the active chemical constituents of Codonopsis pilosula and identified their respective target proteins using the Herb database. Then, we applied the GeneCards database and transcriptome sequencing analysis to screen for critical genes associated with the occurrence and development of liver cancer. The intersection of the target proteins and disease-related genes was used to determine the potential targets of Codonopsis pilosula in hepatocellular carcinoma. Protein-protein interaction analysis and GO/KEGG analysis were subsequently performed to uncover the pathways through which Codonopsis pilosula acts on liver cancer. The Huh-7 cell line, exhibiting the highest sensitivity to Codonopsis pilosula polysaccharide solution (CPP) intervention, was chosen for subsequent studies. Cell viability was evaluated using the CCK-8 assay, colony formation assay was conducted to determine cell proliferation capacity, flow cytometry was used to analyze cell cycle, TUNEL staining was performed to assess cell apoptosis, scratch assay was carried out to evaluate cell migration ability, the expression of EMT-related proteins was detected and analyzed, and cell sphere formation assay was conducted to investigate cell stemness. Finally, a liver cancer animal model was established, and different doses of CPP were administered via gavage the next day. The expression levels of CDK1, PDK1, and β-catenin in mouse liver tissues were detected and analyzed, immunohistochemistry staining was performed to assess the expression of tumor cell proliferation-related proteins Ki67 and PCNA in mouse xenografts, and TUNEL staining was carried out to evaluate cell apoptosis in mouse liver tissues. After intervention with CDK1 expression, the expression levels of CDK1, PDK1, and β-catenin proteins and mRNA in each group of cells were detected using Western blot and RT-qPCR. RESULTS Through network pharmacology analysis, transcriptome sequencing, and bioinformatics analysis, 35 target genes through which Codonopsis pilosula acts on liver cancer were identified. Among them, CDK1, with the highest degree in the PPI network, was considered an essential target protein for Codonopsis pilosula in treating liver cancer. In vitro cell experiments revealed that CPP could inhibit the expression of CDK1/PDK1/β-catenin signaling axis factors, suppress cell proliferation, decrease cell migration ability, influence the EMT process, and reduce cell stemness by inhibiting CDK1 and affecting the PDK1/β-catenin signaling axis. Similarly, in vivo experiments demonstrated that CPP could regulate the CDK1/PDK1/β-catenin signaling axis, inhibit tumor growth, and induce cell apoptosis. CONCLUSION Codonopsis pilosula may inhibit hepatocellular carcinoma growth by suppressing CDK1 and affecting the PDK1/β-catenin signaling axis, limiting cell EMT and reducing cell stemness. These findings provide insights into the potential therapeutic role of Codonopsis pilosula in liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Li
- Chongqing Three Gorges Medical College, Chongqing 404120, China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Development and Utilization of Genuine Medicinal Materials in Three Gorges Reservoir Area, Chongqing 404120, China
| | - Ce Yang
- Chongqing Three Gorges Medical College, Chongqing 404120, China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Development and Utilization of Genuine Medicinal Materials in Three Gorges Reservoir Area, Chongqing 404120, China
| | - Jing Xia
- Chongqing Three Gorges Medical College, Chongqing 404120, China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Development and Utilization of Genuine Medicinal Materials in Three Gorges Reservoir Area, Chongqing 404120, China
| | - Wenxiang Wang
- Chongqing Three Gorges Medical College, Chongqing 404120, China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Development and Utilization of Genuine Medicinal Materials in Three Gorges Reservoir Area, Chongqing 404120, China.
| | - Wei Xiong
- Chongqing Three Gorges Medical College, Chongqing 404120, China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Development and Utilization of Genuine Medicinal Materials in Three Gorges Reservoir Area, Chongqing 404120, China.
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Zhong YL, Wang PQ, Hao DL, Sui F, Zhang FB, Li B. Traditional Chinese medicine for transformation of gastric precancerous lesions to gastric cancer: A critical review. World J Gastrointest Oncol 2023; 15:36-54. [PMID: 36684050 PMCID: PMC9850768 DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v15.i1.36] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) is a common gastrointestinal tumor. Gastric precancerous lesions (GPL) are the last pathological stage before normal gastric mucosa transforms into GC. However, preventing the transformation from GPL to GC remains a challenge. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been used to treat gastric disease for millennia. A series of TCM formulas and active compounds have shown therapeutic effects in both GC and GPL. This article reviews recent progress on the herbal drugs and pharmacological mechanisms of TCM in preventing the transformation from GPL to GC, especially focusing on anti-inflammatory, anti-angiogenesis, proliferation, and apoptosis. This review may provide a meaningful reference for the prevention of the transformation from GPL to GC using TCM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Lin Zhong
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Peng-Qian Wang
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Dan-Li Hao
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Feng Sui
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Feng-Bin Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050011, Hebei Province, China
| | - Bing Li
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
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Ye HN, Liu XY, Qin BL. Research progress of integrated traditional Chinese and Western medicine in the treatment of advanced gastric cancer. World J Gastrointest Oncol 2023; 15:69-75. [PMID: 36684044 PMCID: PMC9850758 DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v15.i1.69] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) is a malignant tumor originating from the gastric epithelium, and its incidence and mortality rates rank third among all malignant tumors worldwide. It is also one of the most common cancers in China and is treated predominantly by Western medicine in clinical practice. However, with the advancements in medical technology and informatics, the values of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in preventing and treating GC and improving prognosis have increasingly been recognized. According to TCM, clinical manifestations of GC can be divided into Yege (dysphagia), regurgitation, stomach pain, and Zhengxia (abdominal mass). Due to the unbalanced distribution of health care resources in China, most GC patients already have progressive or advanced-stage disease at the first diagnosis. As a result, most GC patients have poor physical function, and surgery or chemotherapy alone will aggravate the impairment to the immune function and seriously affect the quality of life. In contrast, TCM therapies have shown promising efficacy in the management of these patients. Here we review the role of the integrated TCM and Western medicine in treating advanced GC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Nan Ye
- Department of Gastroenterology, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University; Cancer Hospital of Dalian University of Technology; Liaoning Cancer Hospital & Institute, Shenyang 110801, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Xiao-Yan Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University; Cancer Hospital of Dalian University of Technology; Liaoning Cancer Hospital & Institute, Shenyang 110801, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Bao-Li Qin
- Department of Gastroenterology, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University; Cancer Hospital of Dalian University of Technology; Liaoning Cancer Hospital & Institute, Shenyang 110801, Liaoning Province, China
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4
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Antitumor Effect of Si-Jun-Zi Decoction on SGC7901 Gastric Cancer Cells by CMTM2 Activation. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2022; 2022:4675815. [PMID: 35873650 PMCID: PMC9303151 DOI: 10.1155/2022/4675815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 05/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The Si-Jun-Zi decoction (SJZ), a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula, is used clinically against multiple malignancies, including gastric cancer (GC). In previous study, we have shown that SJZ plays an anticancer role in SGC7901 cell xenograft mice models. However, the underlying mechanisms are unclear. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect and mechanism of SJZ on the proliferation, migration, invasion, and cancer stem cell-like properties of GC cells. High-throughput mRNA sequencing analysis was performed to investigate the global alterations in gene expression in xenograft tumors, and 56 significantly differentially expressed genes (43 upregulated and 13 downregulated genes) were identified between the SJZ group and the Model group totally. We focused on CMTM2, which was significantly increased after SJZ intervention, as a candidate target gene of SJZ. The results indicated that CMTM2 expression was elevated in SJZ-treated SGC7901 cells and knocking-down CMTM2 expression partially hampered the inhibitory effects of SJZ on the proliferation, migration, and invasion of GC cells. Moreover, SJZ treatment repressed the spheroid and colony-forming capacity in GC cells, accompanied by downregulation of stem cell markers including SOX2, NANOG, and CD44. CMTM2 knockdown antagonized the effects of SJZ on the cancer stem cell-like properties of SGC7901 cells. Thus, SJZ effectively suppressed the proliferation, migration, invasion, and cancer stem cell-like properties of GC cells in vitro by upregulating CMTM2 expression.
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Parvez MK, Ahmed S, Al-Dosari MS, Abdelwahid MAS, Arbab AH, Al-Rehaily AJ, Al-Oqail MM. Novel Anti-Hepatitis B Virus Activity of Euphorbia schimperi and Its Quercetin and Kaempferol Derivatives. ACS OMEGA 2021; 6:29100-29110. [PMID: 34746599 PMCID: PMC8567387 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.1c04320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
![]()
Natural or plant
products, because of their structural diversity,
are a potential source for identifying new anti-hepatitis B virus
(HBV) agents. Here, we report the anti-HBV activity of Euphorbia schimperi and its quercetin (QRC) and kaempferol
derivatives. The anti-HBV-active methanol fraction of E. schimperi was subjected to chromatographic techniques,
leading to isolation of three flavonols, following their structure
determination by 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopies.
Their cytotoxicity and anti-HBV potential were assessed using HBV
reporter HepG2.2.15 cells, and their modes of action were delineated
by molecular docking. The isolated compounds identified as quercetin-3-O-glucuronide (Q3G), quercetin-3-O-rhamnoside
(Q3R), and kaempferol-3-O-glucuronide (K3G) were
non-cytotoxic to HepG2.2.15 cells. The viral HBsAg/HBeAg production
on day 5 was significantly inhibited by K3G (∼70.2/∼73.4%),
Q3G (∼67.8/∼72.1%), and Q3R (∼63.2%/∼68.2%)
as compared to QRC (∼70.3/∼74.8%) and lamivudine (∼76.5/∼84.5%)
used as standards. The observed in vitro anti-HBV
potential was strongly supported by in silico analysis,
which suggested their structure-based activity via interfering with viral Pol/RT and core proteins. In conclusion,
this is the first report on the anti-HBV activity of E. schimperi-derived quercitrin-3-O-glucuronide, quercitrin-3-O-rhamnoside, and kaempferol-3-O-glucuronide, most likely through interfering with HBV
proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad K. Parvez
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sarfaraz Ahmed
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed S. Al-Dosari
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mazin A. S. Abdelwahid
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Al-Neelain University, Khartoum 11114, Sudan
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai 980-8576, Japan
| | - Ahmed H. Arbab
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Khartoum, Khartoum 11111, Sudan
| | - Adnan J. Al-Rehaily
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mai M. Al-Oqail
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
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Song J, Li Q, Ke L, Liang J, Jiao W, Pan H, Li Y, Du Q, Song Y, Ji A, Chen Z, Li J, Li L. Qiangji Jianli Decoction Alleviates Hydrogen Peroxide-Induced Mitochondrial Dysfunction via Regulating Mitochondrial Dynamics and Biogenesis in L6 Myoblasts. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2021; 2021:6660616. [PMID: 33936383 PMCID: PMC8060107 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6660616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Revised: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Oxidative stress can cause the excessive generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and has various adverse effects on muscular mitochondria. Qiangji Jianli decoction (QJJLD) is an effective traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) that is widely applied to improve muscle weakness, and it has active constituents that prevent mitochondrial dysfunction. To investigate the protective mechanism of QJJLD against hydrogen peroxide- (H2O2-) mediated mitochondrial dysfunction in L6 myoblasts. Cell viability was determined with MTT assay. Mitochondrial ultrastructure was detected by transmission electron microscope (TEM). ROS and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) were analyzed by fluorescence microscope and flow cytometry. The superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity, and malondialdehyde (MDA) level were determined by WST-1, TBA, and DTNB methods, respectively. The mRNA and protein levels were measured by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and Western blot. The cell viability was decreased, and the cellular ROS level was increased when L6 myoblasts were exposed to H2O2. After treatment with QJJLD-containing serum, the SOD and GSH-Px activities were increased. MDA level was decreased concurrently. ROS level was decreased while respiratory chain complex activity and ATP content were increased in L6 myoblasts. MMP loss was attenuated. Mitochondrial ultrastructure was also improved. Simultaneously, the protein expressions of p-AMPK, PGC-1α, NRF1, and TFAM were upregulated. The mRNA and protein expressions of Mfn1/2 and Opa1 were also upregulated while Drp1 and Fis1 were downregulated. These results suggest that QJJLD may alleviate mitochondrial dysfunction through the regulation of mitochondrial dynamics and biogenesis, the inhibition of ROS generation, and the promotion of mitochondrial energy metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingwei Song
- Institute of Pi-Wei, Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510405, China
| | - Qing Li
- Institute of Pi-Wei, Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510405, China
| | - Lingling Ke
- Institute of Pi-Wei, Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510405, China
| | - Jian Liang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Development and Research of Chinese Medicine, Mathematical Engineering Academy of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510006 Guangdong, China
| | - Wei Jiao
- Institute of Pi-Wei, Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510405, China
| | - Huafeng Pan
- Institute of Pi-Wei, Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510405, China
| | - Yanwu Li
- Institute of Pi-Wei, Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510405, China
| | - Qun Du
- Institute of Pi-Wei, Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510405, China
| | - Yafang Song
- Institute of Pi-Wei, Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510405, China
| | - Aidong Ji
- Clinical Medical College of Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Zhiwei Chen
- Institute of Pi-Wei, Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510405, China
| | - Jinqiu Li
- Institute of Pi-Wei, Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510405, China
| | - Lanqi Li
- Institute of Pi-Wei, Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510405, China
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Pan CF, Zhang X, Wang JW, Yang T, Zhong LLD, Shen KP. Weichang'an Formula Inhibits Tumor Growth in Combination with Bevacizumab in a Murine Model of Colon Cancer-Making up for the Deficiency of Bevacizumab by inhibiting VEGFR-1. Front Pharmacol 2021; 11:512598. [PMID: 33746736 PMCID: PMC7970919 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.512598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2019] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim: Angiogenesis plays an important role in the initiation, development, and metastasis of malignant tumors. Antiangiogenic drugs combined with immune therapy are considered to have a synergistic effect on anti-tumor strategy. Weichang’an formula (WCAF) is a prescription of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) based on pharmaceutical screening and clinical experience. The aim of this study is to examine the effect of WCAF and its combined action with Bevacizumab (BEV) in colorectal cancer, and to identify the possible mechanism of action. Methods: A human colon cancer cell (HCT 116) subcutaneous xenograft model was established in BALB/c-nu/nu mice. Tumor-bearing mice were randomized into each of four groups: control, WCAF treated, BEV treated, and WCAF plus BEV treated. Apoptosis was detected by TUNEL assay. Western blot was used to assess the protein levels of Leptin-R, STAT3, p-STAT3, BCL-2, and VEGFR-1. Immunohistochemistry was used to detect the micro-vessel density (MVD) and AKT1. Leptin and Vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) mRNA expression were detected by Real-time PCR (RT-PCR). A network pharmacology study and validation assay were carried out to find the underlying molecular targets of WCAF related to immune regulation. Results: Compared with the control group, WCAF reduced tumor weight and volume, as well as promoted tumor cell apoptosis. WCAF treatment decreased the mRNA expression of Leptin and VEGF-A, while the protein levels of CD31, LEP-R, VEGFR-1, STAT3, and p-STAT3 were decreased in tumor tissues. In addition, VEGFR-1 protein expression was decreased in the WCAF group and the WCAF plus BEV group but not in the BEV group. The combination of WCAF and BEV demonstrated a partial additive anti-tumor effect in vivo. The pharmacological network also found there are 26 WCAF target proteins related to cancer immune and 12 cancer immune related pathways. The AKT1 protein expression in the WCAF and WCAF + BEV groups were significantly lower than the that in the control group (p < 0.01). Conclusion: WCAF can inhibit tumor growth and promote apoptosis and inhibit tumor angiogenesis in subcutaneous xenografts of human colon cancer HCT-116 in nude mice. WCAF also makes up for the deficiency of BEV by inhibiting VEGFR-1. The VEGFR-1 expression between the combination group and BEV alone achieved statistically significant difference (p < 0.01). Combined with BEV, WCAF showed a partial additive anti-tumor effect. The mechanism may be related to Leptin/STAT3 signal transduction, VEGF-A, VEGFR-1 and WCAF target proteins related to cancer immune such as leptin and AKT1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuan-Fang Pan
- Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xi Zhang
- Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.,School of Nursing, Shengli College, China University of Petroleum, Dongying, China
| | - Jing-Wen Wang
- Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Tao Yang
- Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | | | - Ke-Ping Shen
- Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
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He K, Chen H, Cao T, Lin J. Elucidation of the Mechanisms and Molecular Targets of Shuanglian Decoction for the Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Based on Network Pharmacology. ACS OMEGA 2021; 6:917-924. [PMID: 33458543 PMCID: PMC7808160 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.0c05550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Shuanglian decoction (SLD) is traditionally used to treat hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in the clinical practice of traditional Chinese medicine. However, its mechanisms of action and molecular targets for the treatment of HCC are not clear. The active compounds of SLD were collected and their targets were identified. HCC-related targets were obtained by analyzing the differentially expressed genes between HCC patients and healthy individuals. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) data were then obtained and PPI networks of SLD putative targets and HCC-related targets were visualized and merged to identify the candidate targets for SLD against HCC. Gene ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analysis were carried out. The gene-pathway network was constructed to screen the key target genes. In total, 35 active compounds and 31 targets of SLD were identified. In total, 245 differentially expressed genes with P values <0.005 and |log2 (fold change)| > 1 were identified between HCC patients and control groups, and 68 target genes associated with HCC were finally identified. Twenty-one pathways including cellular senescence, p53 signaling pathway, and cell cycle were significantly enriched. CYP3A4 was the core gene and other several genes including CYP1A2, PPP3CA, PTGS2, CCCNB1, and CDK1 were the key genes in the gene-pathway network of SLD for the treatment of HCC. The results indicated that SLD's effects against HCC may relate to the regulation of an antioxidant function through specific biological processes and related pathways. This study demonstrates the application of network pharmacology in evaluating mechanisms of action and molecular targets of complex herbal formulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun He
- Hepatobiliary
Surgery, Zhongshan People’s Hospital, Zhongshan 528403, China
| | - Hua Chen
- The
Second Tumor Department, Maoming People’s
Hospital, Maoming 525000, China
| | - Tianshou Cao
- Research
Center of Guangdong Medical University, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - Jiantao Lin
- Research
Center of Guangdong Medical University, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
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陈 莉, 金 彤, 宁 春, 王 素, 王 立, 林 敬. [Anti-tumor and immune-modulating effect of Jiawei Sijunzi decoction in mice bearing hepatoma H22 tumor]. NAN FANG YI KE DA XUE XUE BAO = JOURNAL OF SOUTHERN MEDICAL UNIVERSITY 2019; 39:241-248. [PMID: 30890515 PMCID: PMC6765632 DOI: 10.12122/j.issn.1673-4254.2019.02.18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2019] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the antitumor activity of Jiawei Sijunzi decoction and study its liver and kidney toxicity and its effect on the immune system in a tumor-bearing mouse model. METHODS Hepatoma H22 tumor-bearing mouse models were randomized into model group, cyclophosphamide (CTX) group, and low-, moderate-, and high-dose Jiawei Sijunzi decoction groups (JW-L, JW-M, and JW-H groups, respectively). The antitumor activity of Jiawei Sijunzi decoction was assessed by calculating the tumor inhibition rate and pathological observation of the tumor tissues. Immunohistochemistry was used to detect the expressions of Bax, Bcl-2, Bax/Bcl-2 and caspase-3 in the tumors. The liver and kidney toxicity of Jiawei Sijunzi decoction was analyzed by evaluating the biochemical indicators of liver and kidney functions. The immune function of the tumor-bearing mice were assessed by calculating the immune organ index, testing peripheral blood routines, and detection of serum IL-2 and TNF-α levels using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS Compared with that in the model group, the tumor mass in CTX, JW-M and JW-H groups were all significantly reduced (P < 0.05) with cell rupture and necrosis in the tumors. Immunohistochemistry revealed obviously up-regulated expressions of Bax and caspase-3 and down- regulated expression of Bcl-2 protein with an increased Bax/Bcl-2 ratio in CTX, JW-M and JW-H groups. Treatment with Jiawei Sijunzi decoction significantly reduced Cr, BUN, AST and ALT levels, improved the immune organ index, increased peripheral blood leukocytes, erythrocytes and hemoglobin levels, and up-regulated the levels of TNF-α and IL-2 in the tumor-bearing mice. These changes were especially significant in JW-H group when compared with the parameters in the model group (P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS Jiawei Sijunzi decoction has a strong anti-tumor activity and can improve the liver and kidney functions of tumor-bearing mice. Its anti-tumor effect may be attributed to the up-regulation of Bax, caspase-3, TNF-α and IL-2 levels and the down-regulation of Bcl-2 expression as well as the enhancement of the non-specific immune function.
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Affiliation(s)
- 莉媚 陈
- 南方医科大学中医药学院,广东 广州 510515School of Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
- 南方医科大学珠江医院药剂科,广东 广州 510282Department of Pharmacy, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510282, China
| | - 彤 金
- 南方医科大学中医药学院,广东 广州 510515School of Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
- 南方医科大学珠江医院药剂科,广东 广州 510282Department of Pharmacy, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510282, China
| | - 春桃 宁
- 南方医科大学珠江医院药剂科,广东 广州 510282Department of Pharmacy, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510282, China
| | - 素丽 王
- 广州白云山潘高寿药业股份有限公司,广东 广州 511400Guangzhou Baiyun Mountain Pangaoshou Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., Guangzhou 511400, China
| | - 立杰 王
- 南方医科大学珠江医院药剂科,广东 广州 510282Department of Pharmacy, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510282, China
| | - 敬明 林
- 南方医科大学珠江医院药剂科,广东 广州 510282Department of Pharmacy, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510282, China
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Gao B, Wang R, Peng Y, Li X. Effects of a homogeneous polysaccharide from Sijunzi decoction on human intestinal microbes and short chain fatty acids in vitro. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2018; 224:465-473. [PMID: 29890316 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2018.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2017] [Revised: 06/04/2018] [Accepted: 06/07/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Sijunzi decoction (SJZD) is a classic recipe in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) to strengthen the spleen and replenish Qi. It is well known for treating disorders of gastrointestinal function manifested in poor appetite, reduced food intake and loose stools. Polysaccharide is the most abundant constituent and the major effective component in SJZD. AIM OF THE STUDY The present study aimed to understand the immunomodulatory mechanism of S-3-1, a homogeneous polysaccharide purified from SJZD with immune-enhancement activity, by investigating its effects on human intestinal microbes and short chain fatty acids. MATERIALS AND METHODS S-3-1 was incubated with simulated gastric juice, intestinal juice, and human fecal microflora independently and sequentially. The concentrations of total polysaccharide and reducing sugar were measured to identify the stability of independently and sequentially incubated S-3-1 in three in vitro fermentation models. Gas chromatograph (GC) analysis was used to measure the short chain fatty acid (SCFA) contents in human fecal samples. The human gut microbiota composition was measured by 16S rRNA gene Illumina MiSeq sequencing (V3-V4 region). RESULTS S-3-1 was degraded in three in vitro fermentation models separately and sequentially. Both S-3-1 and incubated S-3-1 could regulate the abundances of Lactobacillus, Pediococcus, Streptococcus, Bacteroides, Enterococcus, Clostridium and Dorea in human intestinal microflora samples. Specifically, S-3-1 could only regulate the abundances of Paraprevotella and Oscillospira, while the influenced flora changed to Butyricimonas, Coprococcus, Dialister, Sutterella, Ruminococcus and Parabacteroides after sequential incubation of S-3-1. In contrast to S-3-1 showing no influence on the content of SCFA, incubated S-3-1 showed increased contents of acetic acid and total acid that were associated with its effects on the abundances of Enterococcus, Sutterella, Butyricimonas and Streptococcus. CONCLUSION S-3-1 plays an immunomodulatory role by regulating the abundances of 9 intestinal bacteria genera. Incubated S-3-1 can regulate more bacteria genera, a total of 13 kinds, and can adjust the SCFA content to affect immunomodulation. Incubation with gastric and intestinal juices enhanced S-3-1's capability of modulating the intestinal flora composition and decreased the bacteria's need for a carbon source. This study could provide new insights for studies on the pharmacological mechanisms of polysaccharides in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beibei Gao
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, No. 800 Dongchuan Road, Minhang District, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Ruijun Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, No. 800 Dongchuan Road, Minhang District, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Ying Peng
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, No. 800 Dongchuan Road, Minhang District, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Xiaobo Li
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, No. 800 Dongchuan Road, Minhang District, Shanghai 200240, China.
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