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Tabassum A, Nadeem H, Azeem F, Siddique MH, Zubair M, Kanwal A, Rasul I. An integrated network pharmacology approach to discover therapeutic mechanisms of Commiphora wightii for the treatment of Bell's palsy. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2024:1-18. [PMID: 38502688 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2024.2326196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Bell's palsy (BP) can result in facial paralysis. Inflammation or injury to the cranial nerves that regulate the facial muscles is primarily responsible for that disease. Commiphora wightii remains recognized as a cure for a few human ailments. This study focused on therapeutic phenomena of C. wightii for the treatment of Bell's palsy, utilizing the network drug discovery and molecular docking techniques. Active biological constituents of C. wightii were retrieved from literature and independent databases. Potential therapeutic targets (431) of 13 bioactive phytochemicals were fetched via SwissTargetPrediction tool. Putative intersecting targets (855) of Bell's palsy were computed through the DisGeNET and GeneCards datasets. Subsequently, by the analysis of potential shared targets (87) of C. wightii and Bell's palsy, a Venn diagram was drawn. DAVID database was used to evaluate gene functional annotations and enriched pathways that are involved in Bell's palsy. STRING database was used for generating the protein-protein relationship complex. Visual presentations of the interactions of potential targets to active chemical constituents were done by the Cytoscape. Whereas, the conformational research sorted out 10 key targets through the protein-protein interactions network. Moreover, the capacity of therapeutic ingredients to interact with a target inhibiting Bell's palsy was confirmed by molecular docking, which might ratify the findings of network pharmacology. In the molecular complex of AKT1-cholesterol, a 100-ns simulation unveiled a graceful stability, with a minimal 0.167 Å ligand shift and resilient hydrogen bonds (ASN54 and SER205). The final 20 ns showcased a P1 motif pirouette, gracefully forming aromatic bonds with H165 and W186, underscoring the complex's dynamic finesse. This study evaluated compound-target interactions and their impact on disease-related genes. It revealed that five genes (AKT1, TNF, MAPK3, EGFR and SRC) of C. wightii might be useful therapeutic targets for the treatment of Bell's palsy, as well as helping in lowering down the blood pressure.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayesha Tabassum
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biotechnology, Government College University Faisalabad, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Habibullah Nadeem
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biotechnology, Government College University Faisalabad, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Farrukh Azeem
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biotechnology, Government College University Faisalabad, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Hussnain Siddique
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biotechnology, Government College University Faisalabad, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Zubair
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biotechnology, Government College University Faisalabad, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Aqsa Kanwal
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biotechnology, Government College University Faisalabad, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Ijaz Rasul
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biotechnology, Government College University Faisalabad, Faisalabad, Pakistan
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Lai HC, Cheng JC, Yip HT, Jeng LB, Huang ST. Chinese herbal medicine decreases incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma in diabetes mellitus patients with regular insulin management. World J Gastrointest Oncol 2024; 16:716-731. [PMID: 38577471 PMCID: PMC10989382 DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v16.i3.716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 12/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) is an independent risk factor for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), while insulin is a potent mitogen. Identifying a new therapeutic modality for preventing insulin users from developing HCC is a critical goal for researchers. AIM To investigate whether regular herbal medicine use can decrease HCC risk in DM patients with regular insulin control. METHODS We used data acquired from the Taiwanese National Health Insurance research database between 2000 and 2017. We identified patients with DM who were prescribed insulin for > 3 months. The herb user group was further defined as patients prescribed herbal medication for DM for > 3 months per annum during follow-up. We matched the herb users to nonusers at a 1:3 ratio according to age, sex, comorbidities and index year by propensity score matching. We analyzed HCC incidence, HCC survival rates, and the herbal prescriptions involved. RESULTS We initially enrolled 657144 DM patients with regular insulin use from 2000 to 2017. Among these, 46849 patients had used a herbal treatment for DM, and 140547 patients were included as the matched control group. The baseline variables were similar between the herb users and nonusers. DM patients with regular herb use had a 12% decreased risk of HCC compared with the control group [adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) = 0.88, 95%CI = 0.80-0.97]. The cumulative incidence of HCC in the herb users was significantly lower than that of the nonusers. Patients with a herb use of > 5 years cumulatively exhibited a protective effect against development of HCC (aHR = 0.82, P < 0.05). Of patients who developed HCC, herb users exhibited a longer survival time than nonusers (aHR = 0.78, P = 0.0001). Additionally, we report the top 10 herbs and formulas in prescriptions and summarize the potential pharmacological effects of the constituents. Our analysis indicated that Astragalus propinquus (Huang Qi) plus Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge (Dan Shen), and Astragalus propinquus (Huang Qi) plus Trichosanthes kirilowii Maxim. (Tian Hua Fen) were the most frequent combination of single herbs. Meanwhile, Ji Sheng Shen Qi Wan plus Dan Shen was the most frequent combination of herbs and formulas. CONCLUSION This large-scale retrospective cohort study reveals that herbal medicine may decrease HCC risk by 12% in DM patients with regular insulin use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsiang-Chun Lai
- Graduate Institute of Chinese Medicine, School of Chinese Medicine, College of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 404328, Taiwan
| | - Ju-Chien Cheng
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, China Medical University, Taichung 404, Taiwan
| | - Hei-Tung Yip
- Management Office for Health Data, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 404327, Taiwan
| | - Long-Bin Jeng
- Organ Transplantation Center, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40447, Taiwan
| | - Sheng-Teng Huang
- Department of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University Hospital; School of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 40447, Taiwan
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He X, Chen A, Liao Z, Zhong J, Cheng A, Xue X, Li F, Chen M, Yao R, Zhao W, Niu J. Dietary Supplementation of Astragalus membranaceus Extract Affects Growth Performance, Antioxidant Capacity, Immune Response, and Energy Metabolism of Largemouth Bass ( Micropterus salmoides). AQUACULTURE NUTRITION 2024; 2024:3893671. [PMID: 38464590 PMCID: PMC10923623 DOI: 10.1155/2024/3893671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
The present study investigated the effects of Astragalus membranaceus extract (AME) on growth performance, immune response, and energy metabolism of juvenile largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides). Seven diets containing 0%, 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3%, 0.4%, 0.5%, and 0.6% AME (Con, AME0.1, AME0.2, AME0.3, AME0.4, AME0.5, and AME0.6 groups) were formulated and fed to M. salmoides for 8 weeks. Final body weight (FBW), feed intake (FI), weight gain (WG), and specific growth rate (SGR) were all significantly higher in AME0.4 group than in Con group (P < 0.05). Feed conversion rate (FCR) was significantly improved in AME0.5 group compared with Con group (P < 0.05). Whole-body crude protein contents were significantly increased in AME0.2 group (P < 0.05). Whole-body crude lipid contents were significantly lower in AME0.2 and AME0.3 groups, while muscle lipid was upregulated by dietary AME (P < 0.05). Hepatic malondialdehyde (MDA) contents were significantly lowered in AME0.3 and AME0.4 groups, and catalase (CAT) activities were significantly increased in AME0.1 and AME0.2 groups (P < 0.05). Plasma aspartate aminotransferase (AST) level was significantly lowered in AME0.5, and AME0.6 groups, and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) level was lowered in AME0.5 groups (P < 0.05). Plasma triglyceride was declined in AME0.6 group, and glucose was decreased by 0.3%-0.5% AME (P < 0.05). Significantly higher hepatocyte diameter, lamina propria width, and submucosal layer thickness were recorded in AME0.6 groups, while the longest villi height was obtained in AME0.2 and AME0.3 groups (P < 0.05). The mRNA expression levels of insulin-like growth factor 1 (igf1) revealed the growth-promoting effect of AME. The anti-inflammatory and antiapoptotic effects of AME were demonstrated by transcription levels of interleukin 8 (il-8), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (tnf-a), caspase, B-cell lymphoma-xl (Bcl-xl), bcl-2 associated x (Bax), and bcl-2-associated death protein (Bad). The transcription levels of lipid metabolism and gluconeogenesis related genes, including acetyl-CoA carboxylase alpha (acc1), fatty acid synthase (fasn), fatty acid binding protein 1 (fabp1), phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase 2 (pepck2), and glucose-6-phosphatase catalytic subunit 1a (g6pc), were reduced by AME treatment, while the levels of glycolysis-related genes, including glucokinase (gck) and pyruvate kinase (pk), were the highest in AME0.2 and AME0.3 groups (P < 0.05). According to polynomial regression analysis of SGR, WG, FCR, whole-body crude lipid, MDA, and ALT, the optimal AME supplementation level was estimated to be 0.320%-0.429% of the diet. These results provided insights into the roles of AME in regulating immunity and metabolism, which highly indicated its potential as immunostimulants and metabolic regulators in diverse aquatic animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuanshu He
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory for Aquatic Economic Animals and Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Anqi Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory for Aquatic Economic Animals and Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhihong Liao
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory for Aquatic Economic Animals and Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | | | - Anda Cheng
- Beijing Centre Biology Co. Ltd., Beijing, China
| | - Xinghua Xue
- Beijing Centre Biology Co. Ltd., Beijing, China
| | - Fuyuan Li
- Beijing Centre Biology Co. Ltd., Beijing, China
| | - Mengdie Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory for Aquatic Economic Animals and Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Rong Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory for Aquatic Economic Animals and Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory for Aquatic Economic Animals and Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jin Niu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory for Aquatic Economic Animals and Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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Shen J, Chen H, Dai J. Genome-wide screening of m6A profiling of cutaneous wound healing in diabetic mice. Mol Biol Rep 2024; 51:175. [PMID: 38252224 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-023-09089-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Impaired wound healing in diabetes mellitus (DM) is a major health burden on patients, their families, and society. The present study aimed to systematically profile the m6A modification landscape in cutaneous wounds in a diabetic mouse model. APPROACH Diabetes was induced in mice through a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ); a single intraperitoneal injection of PBS was made in control mice for comparisons. Both groups then received an 8-mm diameter, full-thickness dorsal body wound with a biopsy punch. Five days after wound surgery, western blot analysis of harvested wound tissues from both groups was used to assess the expression of m6A-related enzymes. Genome-wide profiling of m6A-tagged transcripts was performed through MeRIP-seq and RNA-seq. RESULTS ALKBH5, an m6A eraser, was significantly upregulated, while METTL3, METTL14, and WTAP, m6A writers, were markedly downregulated in the diabetic wounds. Additionally, a total of 1335 m6A peaks were differentially expressed in MeRIP-seq and RNA-seq analyses, with 558 upregulated and 777 downregulated peaks. Finally, there was hypomethylated and hypermethylated differentiation at the gene and transcript levels. INNOVATION The present study was the first to reveal the m6A landscape in diabetic wounds in an animal model. CONCLUSION This study, by deeply analyzing the role of m6A modifications in diabetic wound healing, provides new insights and understanding into the molecular mechanisms of diabetic wound healing. Future research could further explore how m6A modifications regulate the wound healing process, thereby offering new potential targets for the treatment of diabetic wounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junjie Shen
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital, JiaoTong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hua Chen
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital, JiaoTong University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Jiezhi Dai
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital, JiaoTong University, Shanghai, China.
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Liao CC, Lin CL, Tsai FJ, Chien CH, Li JM. Acupuncture's long-term impact on depression prevention in primary dysmenorrhea: A 19-year follow-up of a Taiwan cohort with neuroimmune insights. J Affect Disord 2024; 344:48-60. [PMID: 37816484 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2023.10.013] [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: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Primary dysmenorrhea (PD) is a common gynecological condition causing depression. Acupuncture is an effective option for PD management but its effects on PD-associated depression remain unclear. METHODS A retrospective cohort study involving 35,099 propensity score-matched pairs of acupuncture users and non-users with PD was conducted using data from Taiwan's Longitudinal Generation Tracking Database 2000. Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate depression risk, and bioinformatics analyses were performed to uncover underlying molecular mechanisms. RESULTS The risk of developing depression was reduced by 64 % in acupuncture users compared with non-acupuncture users during the 19-year follow-up period. The decrease was dose-dependent. Bioinformatics analyses identified 34 co-expressed targets for acupuncture, PD, and depression; and eight hub genes (coding for interleukin 6 and 1B, tumor necrosis factor, albumin, vascular endothelial growth factor A, C-reactive protein, prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor) potentially involved in the therapeutic effects of acupuncture. Several molecular pathways were found to be involved, including cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction, neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction, cyclic adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate signaling pathway, mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathway, serotonergic synapse, and estrogen signaling pathway. LIMITATIONS Bias in the selection of participants could have been introduced as a consequence of the retrospective nature of the study. Data were derived from a single national database, and acupuncture treatment details were unavailable. CONCLUSION Acupuncture may protect against the development of depression in patients with PD. This study provides insight into the potential molecular mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effects of acupuncture in PD management and depression prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chung-Chih Liao
- Department of Post-Baccalaureate Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical and Health Science, Asia University, Taichung 41354, Taiwan; Chuyuan Chinese Medicine Clinic, Taichung 40455, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Li Lin
- Management Office for Health Data, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40459, Taiwan
| | - Fuu-Jen Tsai
- School of Chinese Medicine, College of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan; Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40402, Taiwan; Division of Medical Genetics, China Medical University Children's Hospital, Taichung 40447, Taiwan; Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Asia University, Taichung 41354, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Hsien Chien
- Department of Post-Baccalaureate Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical and Health Science, Asia University, Taichung 41354, Taiwan
| | - Jung-Miao Li
- School of Chinese Medicine, College of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan; Department of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40447 , Taiwan.
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Tallei TE, Fatimawali, Adam AA, Ekatanti D, Celik I, Fatriani R, Nainu F, Kusuma WA, Rabaan AA, Idroes R. Molecular insights into the anti-inflammatory activity of fermented pineapple juice using multimodal computational studies. Arch Pharm (Weinheim) 2024; 357:e2300422. [PMID: 37861276 DOI: 10.1002/ardp.202300422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Pineapple has been recognized for its potential to enhance health and well-being. This study aimed to gain molecular insights into the anti-inflammatory properties of fermented pineapple juice using multimodal computational studies. In this study, pineapple juice was fermented using Lactobacillus paracasei, and the solution underwent liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis. Network pharmacology was applied to investigate compound interactions and targets. In silico methods assessed compound bioactivities. Protein-protein interactions, network topology, and enrichment analysis identified key compounds. Molecular docking explored compound-receptor interactions in inflammation regulation. Molecular dynamics simulations were conducted to confirm the stability of interactions between the identified crucial compounds and their respective receptors. The study revealed several compounds including short-chain fatty acids, peptides, dihydroxyeicosatrienoic acids, and glycerides that exhibited promising anti-inflammatory properties. Leucyl-leucyl-norleucine and Leu-Leu-Tyr exhibited robust and stable interactions with mitogen-activated protein kinase 14 and IκB kinase β, respectively, indicating their potential as promising therapeutic agents for inflammation modulation. This proposition is grounded in the pivotal involvement of these two proteins in inflammatory signaling pathways. These findings provide valuable insights into the anti-inflammatory potential of these compounds, serving as a foundation for further experimental validation and exploration. Future studies can build upon these results to advance the development of these compounds as effective anti-inflammatory agents.
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Grants
- 053/E5/PG.02.00.PL/2023 Directorate of Research, Technology, and Community Service of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology, Republic of Indonesia
- 189/UN12.13/LT/2023 Directorate of Research, Technology, and Community Service of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology, Republic of Indonesia
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Affiliation(s)
- Trina Ekawati Tallei
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Science, Sam Ratulangi University, Manado, North Sulawesi, Indonesia
| | - Fatimawali
- Pharmacy Study Program, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Science, Sam Ratulangi University, Manado, North Sulawesi, Indonesia
| | - Ahmad Akroman Adam
- Dentistry Study Program, Faculty of Medicine, Sam Ratulangi University, Manado, North Sulawesi, Indonesia
| | - Dewi Ekatanti
- Pharmacy Study Program, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Science, Sam Ratulangi University, Manado, North Sulawesi, Indonesia
| | - Ismail Celik
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Rizka Fatriani
- Tropical Biopharmaca Research Center, IPB University, Bogor, Indonesia
| | - Firzan Nainu
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Hasanuddin University, Makassar, Indonesia
| | - Wisnu Ananta Kusuma
- Tropical Biopharmaca Research Center, IPB University, Bogor, Indonesia
- Department of Computer Science, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, IPB University, Bogor, Indonesia
| | - Ali A Rabaan
- Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory, Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare, Dhahran, Saudi Arabia
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Public Health and Nutrition, The University of Haripur, Haripur, Pakistan
| | - Rinaldi Idroes
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Kopelma Darussalam, Banda Aceh, Aceh, Indonesia
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She M, Huang M, Zhang J, Yan Y, Zhou L, Zhang M, Yang Y, Wang D. Astragulus embranaceus (Fisch.) Bge-Dioscorea opposita Thunb herb pair ameliorates sarcopenia in senile type 2 diabetes mellitus through Rab5a/mTOR-mediated mitochondrial dysfunction. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 317:116737. [PMID: 37295571 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE The combination of Astragulus embranaceus (Fisch.) Bge (Huangqi) and Dioscorea opposita Thunb (Shanyao) are one of the most widely accepted herb pairs in traditional Chinese medicine prescriptions for treating sarcopenia. However, the mechanisms underlying the combination of these herbs for anti-sarcopenia treatment are not yet fully understood. AIM OF THE STUDY To investigate the potential effect of the Astragulus embranaceus (Fisch.) Bge and Dioscorea opposita Thunb herb pair (Ast-Dio) on sarcopenia in mice that have been induced with senile type 2 diabetes mellitus, as well as to explore the underlying mechanisms related to the Rab5a/mTOR signaling pathway and mitochondrial quality control. MATERIALS AND METHODS Network pharmacology was utilized to identify the main active ingredients of Ast-Dio and potential therapeutic targets for sarcopenia. Gene Ontology function and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment analyses were conducted to explore the underlying mechanisms of Ast-Dio in treating sarcopenia. The high-performance liquid chromatography method coupled with triple-quadrupole tandem mass spectrometry was developed to quantify the major constituents of Ast-Dio. Male C57/BL6 mice, aged 12 months, induced with type 2 diabetes mellitus via streptozotocin were divided into three groups for 8 weeks: the model group, Ast-Dio treatment group (7.8 g/kg), and metformin treatment group (100 mg/kg). Normal control groups included mice aged 3 and 12 months, respectively. The study monitored changes in fasting blood glucose levels, grip strength, and body weight during 8 weeks of intragastric administration. Liver and kidney function in mice was evaluated by measuring the levels of serum creatinine, alanine transaminase, and aspartate transaminase. Skeletal muscle mass condition was evaluated by muscle weight, and hematoxylin and eosin staining. Protein and mRNA expressions related to muscle atrophy, mitochondrial quality control, and the Rab5a/mTOR signaling pathway were detected using immunofluorescence staining, immunohistochemical staining, Western blotting, and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. In addition, transmission electron microscopy was employed to investigate the condition of mitochondria in the groups. RESULTS Through the prediction analysis of network pharmacology, we identified mTOR as one of the primary targets for Ast-Dio therapy of sarcopenia. Gene Ontology functional enrichment analysis revealed that mitochondrial control quality is crucial in the treatment of sarcopenia with Ast-Dio. Our findings showed that senile type 2 diabetes mellitus induced muscle mass loss and a reduction in grip strength, both of which were dramatically restored by Ast-Dio treatment. Notably, Ast-Dio increased Myogenin expression while decreasing Atrogin-1 and MuRF-1 expression. Additionally, Ast-Dio activated Rab5a/mTOR and its downstream effector AMPK. Moreover, Ast-Dio modulated mitochondrial quality control by decreasing Mitofusin-2 expression while increasing the expression of TFAM, PGC-1α, and MFF. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that Ast-Dio treatment may alleviate sarcopenia in mice with senile type 2 diabetes mellitus through its effects on the Rab5a/mTOR pathway and mitochondrial quality control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meiling She
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen Hospital, Southern Medical University, No. 1333, Xinhu Road, Bao 'an District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518000, China; School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, No. 1023-1063, Shatai South Road, Baiyun District, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510000, China
| | - Minna Huang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen Hospital, Southern Medical University, No. 1333, Xinhu Road, Bao 'an District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518000, China; School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, No. 1023-1063, Shatai South Road, Baiyun District, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510000, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen Hospital, Southern Medical University, No. 1333, Xinhu Road, Bao 'an District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518000, China
| | - Yan Yan
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen Hospital, Southern Medical University, No. 1333, Xinhu Road, Bao 'an District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518000, China; School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, No. 1023-1063, Shatai South Road, Baiyun District, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510000, China
| | - Lingli Zhou
- The First Clinical Medical College, Southern Medical University, No. 1023-1063, Shatai South Road, Baiyun District, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510000, China
| | - Meng Zhang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen Hospital, Southern Medical University, No. 1333, Xinhu Road, Bao 'an District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518000, China; School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, No. 1023-1063, Shatai South Road, Baiyun District, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510000, China.
| | - Yajun Yang
- Department of Pharmacology, Guangdong Key Laboratory for R&D of Natural Drug, Guangdong Medical University, No. 2, Wenming East Road, Xiashan District, Zhanjiang City, 524000, China.
| | - Dongtao Wang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen Hospital, Southern Medical University, No. 1333, Xinhu Road, Bao 'an District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518000, China; School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, No. 1023-1063, Shatai South Road, Baiyun District, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510000, China.
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Wang T, Wang YY, Shi MY, Liu L. Mechanisms of action of natural products on type 2 diabetes. World J Diabetes 2023; 14:1603-1620. [DOI: 10.4239/wjd.v14.i11.1603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the past several decades, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has been considered a global public health concern. Currently, various therapeutic modalities are available for T2DM management, including dietary modifications, moderate exercise, and use of hypoglycemic agents and lipid-lowering medications. Although the curative effect of most drugs on T2DM is significant, they also exert some adverse side effects. Biologically active substances found in natural medicines are important for T2DM treatment. Several recent studies have reported that active ingredients derived from traditional medicines or foods exert a therapeutic effect on T2DM. This review compiled important articles regarding the therapeutic effects of natural products and their active ingredients on islet β cell function, adipose tissue inflammation, and insulin resistance. Additionally, this review provided an in-depth understanding of the multiple regulatory effects on different targets and signaling pathways of natural medicines in the treatment of T2DM as well as a theoretical basis for clinical effective application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Wang
- Clinical Molecular Immunology Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434023, Hubei Province, China
| | - Yang-Yang Wang
- Clinical Molecular Immunology Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434023, Hubei Province, China
| | - Meng-Yue Shi
- Clinical Molecular Immunology Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434023, Hubei Province, China
| | - Lian Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434023, Hubei Province, China
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Guzmán-Flores JM, Pérez-Vázquez V, Martínez-Esquivias F, Isiordia-Espinoza MA, Viveros-Paredes JM. Molecular Docking Integrated with Network Pharmacology Explores the Therapeutic Mechanism of Cannabis sativa against Type 2 Diabetes. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2023; 45:7228-7241. [PMID: 37754241 PMCID: PMC10529732 DOI: 10.3390/cimb45090457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The incidence of type 2 diabetes (T2D) is rising, and finding new treatments is important. C. sativa is a plant suggested as a potential treatment for T2D, but how it works needs to be clarified. This study explored the pharmacological mechanism of C. sativa in treating T2D. We identified the active compounds in C. sativa and their targets. From there, we examined the genes associated with T2D and found overlapping genes. We conducted an enrichment analysis and created a protein-protein and target-compound interactions network. We confirmed the binding activities of the hub proteins and compounds with molecular docking. We identified thirteen active compounds from C. sativa, which have 150 therapeutic targets in T2D. The enrichment analysis showed that these proteins are involved in the hormone, lipid, and stress responses. They bind transcription factors and metals and participate in the insulin, PI3K/Akt, HIF-1, and FoxO signaling pathways. We found four hub proteins (EGFR, ESR1, HSP90AA1, and SRC) that bind to the thirteen bioactive compounds. This was verified using molecular docking. Our findings suggest that C. sativa's antidiabetic action is carried out through the insulin signaling pathway, with the participation of HIF-1 and FoxO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Manuel Guzmán-Flores
- Instituto de Investigación en Biociencias, Centro Universitario de los Altos, Universidad de Guadalajara, Tepatitlán de Morelos C.P. 47620, Jalisco, Mexico;
| | - Victoriano Pérez-Vázquez
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Guanajuato, Campus León, León C.P. 37220, Guanajuato, Mexico;
| | - Fernando Martínez-Esquivias
- Instituto de Investigación en Biociencias, Centro Universitario de los Altos, Universidad de Guadalajara, Tepatitlán de Morelos C.P. 47620, Jalisco, Mexico;
| | - Mario Alberto Isiordia-Espinoza
- Instituto de Investigación en Ciencias Médicas, Departamento de Clínicas, Centro Universitario de los Altos, Universidad de Guadalajara, Tepatitlan de Morelos C.P. 47620, Jalisco, Mexico;
| | - Juan Manuel Viveros-Paredes
- Laboratorio de Investigación y Desarrollo Farmacéutico, Departamento de Farmacobiología, Centro Universitario de Ciencias Exactas e Ingenierías, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara C.P. 44430, Jalisco, Mexico;
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Xu M, Zhai W, Zhang Y, Pan J, Li J, Huang S. Kaixin Jieyu Granule attenuates neuroinflammation-induced depressive-like behavior through TLR4/PI3K/AKT/FOXO1 pathway: a study of network pharmacology and experimental validation. BMC Complement Med Ther 2023; 23:156. [PMID: 37173696 PMCID: PMC10182664 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-023-03970-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Kaixin Jieyu Granule (KJG), an improved formula of Kai-xin-san and Si-ni-san, is a highly effective formula with demonstrated efficacy in preventing depression in previous studies. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms of KJG's antidepressant effects on inflammatory molecules remain unclear. This study aimed to explore the therapeutic effects of KJG on depression using network pharmacology and experimental validation. METHODS We employed a multi-faceted approach, combining high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), network pharmacology, and molecular docking, to unravel the underlying mechanisms of KJG's anti-depressant effects. To confirm our findings, we conducted at least two independent in vivo experiments on mice, utilizing both the chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS)-induced and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced models. Furthermore, the results of in vivo experiments were verified by in vitro assays. Behavioral tests were utilized to evaluate depression-like behaviors, while Nissl staining was used to assess morphological changes in the hippocampus. Pro-inflammatory cytokines and pathway-related protein expressions were determined using a combination of immunofluorescence staining, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and Western Blotting (WB). RESULTS Our network-based approaches indicated that ginsenoside Rg1 (GRg1) and saikosaponin d (Ssd) are the major constituents of KJG that exert an anti-depressant effect by regulating TLR4, PI3K, AKT1, and FOXO1 targets through the toll-like receptor, PI3K/AKT, and FoxO pathways. In vivo, KJG can attenuate depression-like behaviors, protect hippocampal neuronal cells, and reduce the production of pro-inflammatory mediators (TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β) by repressing TLR4 expression, which was regulated by the inhibition of FOXO1 through nuclear exportation. Furthermore, KJG increases the expression levels of PI3K, AKT, p-PI3K, p-AKT, and p-PTEN. Our in vitro assays are consistent with our in vivo studies. On the other hand, the above effects can be reversed by applying TAK242 and LY294002. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that KJG can exert anti-depressant effects by regulating neuroinflammation through the PI3K/AKT/FOXO1 pathway by suppressing TLR4 activation. The study's findings reveal novel mechanisms underlying the anti-depressant effects of KJG, presenting promising avenues for the development of targeted therapeutic approaches for depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manman Xu
- Guang' Anmen Hospital, Traditional Chinese Medicine Research and Development Center, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100053, China
- Department of oncology, Guang' Anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100053, China
| | - Wujianwen Zhai
- Guang' Anmen Hospital, Traditional Chinese Medicine Research and Development Center, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100053, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- Guang' Anmen Hospital, Traditional Chinese Medicine Research and Development Center, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100053, China
| | - Juhua Pan
- Guang' Anmen Hospital, Traditional Chinese Medicine Research and Development Center, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100053, China
| | - Jie Li
- Department of oncology, Guang' Anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100053, China.
| | - Shijing Huang
- Guang' Anmen Hospital, Traditional Chinese Medicine Research and Development Center, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100053, China.
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Xu M, Chang Y, Zhu G, Zhu X, Song X, Li J. Transforming Cold Tumors into Hot Ones with a Metal-Organic Framework-Based Biomimetic Nanosystem for Enhanced Immunotherapy. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2023; 15:17470-17484. [PMID: 36995264 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c21005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Immunotherapy has revolutionized the landscape in clinical tumor therapy, although the response rates in "cold" tumors are relatively low owing to the complex tumor microenvironment (TME). Cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate synthase/stimulator of interferon genes (cGAS/STING) pathway-inducing agents can reprogram the TME; however, their applications remain underutilized. Herein, we engineered a facile manganese-based metal-organic framework (Mn-MOF) encapsulating polyphyllin I (PPI) and coated it with red blood cell (RBC) membranes (RBC@Mn-MOF/PPI) that enhanced the cGAS/STING-mediated antitumor immunity. RBC@Mn-MOF/PPI was engineered by camouflaging it with a biomimetic RBC membrane for prolonged blood circulation and immune escape, which was also extended with TME-sensitive properties for triggering the release of PPI and Mn2+ to remodel the suppressive TME and augment antitumor immune responses. Furthermore, RBC@Mn-MOF/PPI helped transform cold tumors into "hot" ones by activating immune cells, as evidenced via dendritic cell maturation, cytotoxic T lymphocyte infiltration, and natural killer cell recruitment, thereby targeting primary and abscopal tumors and lung metastatic nodules. Therefore, our engineered nanosystem represents a novel strategy to transform immunologically "cold" tumors into "hot" ones by activating the cGAS/STING pathway, thereby addressing the major challenges associated with immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manman Xu
- Department of Oncology, Guang' Anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100053, China
| | - Yincheng Chang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, Beijing Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, Changzhou Institute of Advanced Materials, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Guanghui Zhu
- Department of Oncology, Guang' Anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100053, China
| | - Xiaoyu Zhu
- Department of Oncology, Guang' Anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100053, China
| | - Xiaotong Song
- Department of Oncology, Guang' Anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100053, China
| | - Jie Li
- Department of Oncology, Guang' Anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100053, China
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Luo YM, Yang SD, Wen MY, Wang B, Liu JH, Li ST, Li YY, Cheng H, Zhao LL, Li SM, Jiang JJ. Insights into the mechanisms of triptolide nephrotoxicity through network pharmacology-based analysis and RNA-seq. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2023; 14:1144583. [PMID: 36959927 PMCID: PMC10027700 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2023.1144583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Triptolide (TPL) is a promising plant-derived compound for clinical therapy of multiple human diseases; however, its application was limited considering its toxicity. METHODS To explore the underlying molecular mechanism of TPL nephrotoxicity, a network pharmacology based approach was utilized to predict candidate targets related with TPL toxicity, followed by deep RNA-seq analysis to characterize the features of three transcriptional elements include protein coding genes (PCGs), long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) and circular RNAs (circRNAs) as well as their associations with nephrotoxicity in rats with TPL treatment. RESULTS & DISCUSSION Although the deeper mechanisms of TPL nephrotoxcity remain further exploration, our results suggested that c-Jun is a potential target of TPL and Per1 related circadian rhythm signaling is involved in TPL induced renal toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue-Ming Luo
- Department of Nephrology, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
| | - Shu-Dong Yang
- Department of Nephrology, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
| | - Miao-Yu Wen
- Department of Geriatrics, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
| | - Bing Wang
- Department of Nephrology, Shenzhen Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Jia-Hui Liu
- Department of Nephrology, Shenzhen Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Si-Ting Li
- Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yu-Yan Li
- Department of Nephrology, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
| | - Hong Cheng
- Department of Geriatrics, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
| | - Li-Li Zhao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
- Graduate school of Clinical Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Shun-Min Li
- Department of Nephrology, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jian-Jun Jiang
- Department of Nephrology, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
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Molecular Mechanisms of Cassia fistula against Epithelial Ovarian Cancer Using Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking Approaches. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14091970. [PMID: 36145718 PMCID: PMC9500712 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14091970] [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: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is one of the deadliest reproductive tract malignancies that form on the external tissue covering of an ovary. Cassia fistula is popular for its anti-inflammatory and anticarcinogenic properties in conventional medications. Nevertheless, its molecular mechanisms are still unclear. The current study evaluated the potential of C. fistula for the treatment of EOC using network pharmacology approach integrated with molecular docking. Eight active constituents of C. fistula were obtained from two independent databases and the literature, and their targets were retrieved from the SwissTargetPrediction. In total, 1077 EOC associated genes were retrieved from DisGeNET and GeneCardsSuite databases, and 800 potential targets of eight active constituents of C. fistula were mapped to the 1077 EOC targets and intersected targets from two databases. Ultimately, 98 potential targets were found from C. fistula for EOC. Finally, the protein–protein interaction network (PPI) topological interpretation revealed AKT1, CTNNB1, ESR1, and CASP3 as key targets. This is the first time four genes have been found against EOC from C. fistula. The major enriched pathways of these candidate genes were established by Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) investigations. To confirm the network pharmacology findings, the molecular docking approach demonstrated that active molecules have higher affinity for binding to putative targets for EOC suppression. More pharmacological and clinical research is required for the development of a drug to treat EOC.
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Mechanism of Astragalus membranaceus Alleviating Acquired Hyperlipidemia Induced by High-Fat Diet through Regulating Lipid Metabolism. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14050954. [PMID: 35267929 PMCID: PMC8912611 DOI: 10.3390/nu14050954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 02/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Astragalus membranaceus (AM) is a food and medicinal homologous plant. The current research is aimed to investigate the beneficial effects and mechanisms of AM in treating acquired hyperlipidemia. The network pharmacology and bioinformatics analysis results showed 481 AM-related targets and 474 acquired hyperlipidemia-associated targets, and 101 candidate targets were obtained through the intersection, mainly enriched in endocrine resistance, AGE-RAGE in diabetic complications and p53 signaling pathways. Quercetin, kaempferol, calycosin, formononetin and isorhamnetin were determined as the candidate active components of AM in the treatment of acquired hyperlipidemia. Moreover, key targets of AM, namely, AKT serine/threonine kinase 1 (AKT1), vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA), cyclin D1 (CCND1) and estrogen receptor 1 (ESR1), were screened out, which were closely related to adipogenesis, fatty acid metabolism and bile acid metabolism. The subsequent animal experiments showed that AM extract treatment improved the lipid profiles of the high-fat diet (HFD)-fed mice by reducing lipogenesis and increasing lipolysis and lipid β-oxidation, which were associated with the downregulating of AKT1 and CCND1, and the upregulating of VEGFA and ESR1 in liver and adipose tissue. Overall, AM alleviated acquired hyperlipidemia through regulating lipid metabolism, and AKT1, VEGFA, CCND1 and ESR1 might be the key targets.
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Dai Y, Guo M, Jiang L, Gao J. Network pharmacology-based identification of miRNA expression of Astragalus membranaceus in the treatment of diabetic nephropathy. Medicine (Baltimore) 2022; 101:e28747. [PMID: 35119030 PMCID: PMC8812605 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000028747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a common microvascular complication of diabetic patients, along with hypertension, hyperlipemia, proteinuria, edema, and other clinical manifestations. Astragalus membranaceus (AM) is a traditional Chinese medicine and has shown significant clinical efficacy against DN. However, the overall molecular mechanism of this therapeutic effect has not been entirely elucidated. Using network pharmacology, we aimed to identify the key active ingredients and potential pharmacological mechanisms of AM in treating DN and provide scientific evidence of its clinical efficacy.The active ingredients of AM were obtained from the traditional Chinese medicine systems pharmacology database, and the potential targets of AM were identified using the therapeutic target database. DN-related target genes were acquired from the Gene Expression Omnibus microarray dataset GSE1009 and 3 widely used databases-DisGeNET, GeneCards, and Comparative Toxicogenomics Database. The DN-AM common target protein interaction network was established by using the STRING database. Active ingredients candidate targets proteins networks were constructed using Cytoscape software for visualization. Additionally, gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes pathway analyses were performed using the Database for Annotation, Visualization, and Integrated Discovery database. Target-regulating microRNAs (miRNAs) of these hub genes were obtained from the therapeutic target database, which could then be used for further identification of AM-regulated key miRNAs.A total of 17 active ingredients and 214 target proteins were screened from AM. 61 candidate co-expressed genes with therapeutic effects against DN were obtained and considered as potential therapeutic targets. GO and Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes enrichment analysis showed that these genes were mainly involved in inflammatory response, angiogenesis, oxidative stress reaction, HIF signaling pathway, tumor necrosis factor signaling pathway, and VEGF signaling pathway. In all, 636 differentially expressed genes were identified between the DN patients and control group by using microarray data, GSE1009. Lastly, VEGFA, epidermal growth factor receptor, STAT1, and GJA1 were screened as hub genes. The relationships between miRNAs and hub genes were constructed, which showed that miR-302-3p, miR-372-3p, miR-373-3p, and miR-520-3p were regulated by VEGFA and epidermal growth factor receptor. Meanwhile, VEGFA also influenced miR-15-5p, miR-16-5p, miR-17-5p, miR-20-5p, miR-93-5p, miR-106-5p, miR-195-5p, miR-424-5p, miR-497-5p, and miR-519-3p. In addition, miR-1-3p and miR-206 were regulated by VEGFA and GJA1, and miR-23-3p was regulated by STAT1 and GJA1.To our knowledge, this study revealed for the first time the characteristic multiple components, multiple targets, and multiple pathways of AM that seem to be the underlying mechanisms of action of AM in the treatment of DN with respect to miRNAs.Private information from individuals will not be published. This systematic review also does not involve endangering participant rights. Ethical approval will not be required. The results may be published in a peer-reviewed journal or disseminated at relevant conferences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaji Dai
- Department of Pharmacy, Anhui No. 2 Provincial People's Hospital, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Mingfei Guo
- Department of Pharmacy, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Lei Jiang
- Department of Pharmacy, Anhui No. 2 Provincial People's Hospital, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Jiarong Gao
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, China
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Implementation of System Pharmacology and Molecular Docking Approaches to Explore Active Compounds and Mechanism of Ocimum Sanctum against Tuberculosis. Processes (Basel) 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/pr10020298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Worldwide, Tuberculosis (TB) is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria. Ocimum sanctum, commonly known as holy basil (Tulsi), is an herbaceous perennial that belongs to the family Lamiaceae and is considered one of the most important sources of medicine and drugs for the treatment of various diseases. The presented study aims to discover the potential phenomenon of Ocimum sanctum in the medicament of tuberculosis using a network pharmacology approach. Active ingredients of Ocimum sanctum were fetched through two different databases and from literature review and then targets of these compounds were harvested by SwissTargetPrediction. Potential targets of TB were downloaded from GeneCards and DisGNet databases. After screening of mutual targets, enrichment analysis through DAVID was performed. Protein–protein interaction was performed using the String database and visualized by Cytoscape. Then the target-compound-pathway network was constructed with Cytoscape. In the end, molecular docking was performed to get the potential active ingredients against tuberculosis. Eight active ingredients with 776 potential therapeutic targets were obtained from O. sanctum, 632 intersected targets from two databases were found in TB, 72 common potential targets were found from TB and O. sanctum. The topological analysis exposes those ten targets that formed the core PPI network. Furthermore, molecular docking analysis reveals that active compounds have the greater binding ability with the potential target to suppress TB.
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Network Pharmacology Study on Molecular Mechanisms of Zhishi Xiebai Guizhi Decoction in the Treatment of Coronary Heart Disease. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2021; 2021:3574321. [PMID: 34966435 PMCID: PMC8712121 DOI: 10.1155/2021/3574321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Background Coronary heart disease is characterized by the formation of arterial plaque. If not taken seriously, it will cause serious consequences such as myocardial infarction and heart failure. Zhishi Xiebai Guizhi Decoction first appeared in “Synopsis of Prescriptions of the Golden Chamber” and is a representative prescription for the treatment of coronary heart disease. This study aims to explain the mechanism of Zhishi Xiebai Guizhi Decoction in the treatment of coronary heart disease through network pharmacology and clinical trials. Methods We first identified the core compounds of Zhishi Xiebai Guizhi Decoction and their potential targets through TCMSP. Then, We analyzed the molecular targets of Zhishi Xiebai Guizhi Decoction in coronary heart disease with OMIM and GeneCards databases. After the common targets were screened out, we manage to figure out the pathways of these target genes through STRING. Finally, we verify the treatment results in clinical trials. Results Through network pharmacology analysis, we discovered that several core compounds of Zhishi Xiebai Guizhi Decoction have anti-inflammatory effects and are of great significance to treatment of cardiovascular diseases. The mechanism may be closely related to PPARγ, inflammation, TNF signaling pathway, AMPK signaling pathway, and PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. Clinical trials have also proved the key role of inflammation. Conclusions Zhishi Xiebai Guizhi Decoction may play a role in treating coronary heart disease by activating PPARγ. TNF signaling pathway, AMPK signaling pathway, and PI3K-Akt signaling pathway are potential mechanisms as well. The application of network pharmacology can provide a novel method for the research of Chinese herbal medicine. We hope that Zhishi Xiebai Guizhi Decoction will be recognized as a complementary or alternative treatment for coronary heart disease.
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An W, Huang Y, Chen S, Teng T, Shi Y, Sun Z, Xu Y. Mechanisms of Rhizoma Coptidis against type 2 diabetes mellitus explored by network pharmacology combined with molecular docking and experimental validation. Sci Rep 2021; 11:20849. [PMID: 34675276 PMCID: PMC8531350 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-00293-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
This study systematically explored the underlying mechanism of Rhizoma Coptidis against type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) by using network pharmacology and molecular docking and experimental validation. We retrieved and screened active compounds of Rhizoma Coptidis and corresponding T2DM-related targets across multiple databases. PPI networks of the genes were constructed using STRING, and the core targets were screened via topological analysis. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses were performed by using DAVID. Finally, molecular docking and experimental studies were performed after bioinformatic analysis for verification. There were 14 active compounds and 19 core targets of Rhizoma Coptidis-T2DM, of which quercetin was identified as the main compound and IL6, VEGFA and TNF were the most significant core targets. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses showed that Rhizoma Coptidis ameliorated T2DM by regulating multiple biological processes and pathways. Docking studies indicated that IL6, VEGFA and TNF could stably bind with all active compounds of Rhizoma Coptidis. The results of our experiments revealed that Rhizoma Coptidis could inhibit the expression of IL6 and TNFα and enhance islet cell viability. This study suggests anti-inflammatory therapeutic effects of Rhizoma Coptidis on T2DM, thereby providing a scientific basis and new insight for further research on the antidiabetic effect of Rhizoma Coptidis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenrong An
- First Clinical Medical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250355, China
| | - Yanqin Huang
- Department of Endocrinology, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250014, China
| | - Shouqiang Chen
- Department of Endocrinology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 1 Jingba Road, Jinan, 250001, China
| | - Tao Teng
- Department of Endocrinology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 1 Jingba Road, Jinan, 250001, China
| | - Yingning Shi
- First Clinical Medical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250355, China
| | - Zhenhai Sun
- First Clinical Medical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250355, China
| | - Yunsheng Xu
- Department of Endocrinology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 1 Jingba Road, Jinan, 250001, China.
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Exploring the mechanism of Jianpi Qushi Huayu Formula in the treatment of chronic glomerulonephritis based on network pharmacology. Naunyn Schmiedebergs Arch Pharmacol 2021; 394:2451-2470. [PMID: 34618179 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-021-02159-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
This study was to explore the effective components, potential targets, and pathways of Jianpi Qushi Huayu Formula (JQHF) for the treatment of chronic glomerulonephritics (CGN). First, the Chinese Medicine System Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform (TCMSP), GeneCards, and OMIM databases were used to collect the major active components of JQHF and potential therapeutic targets of CGN. Then, functional enrichment analysis was performed to clarify the mechanisms of the JQHF on CGN. Subsequently, molecular docking was simulated to assess the binding ability of key targets and major active components. Finally, quantitative real-time PCR and western blot were performed for experimental verification of cells in vitro. A total of 55 active ingredients contained and 220 putative identified targets were screened from JQHF, of which 112 overlapped with the targets of CGN and were considered potential therapeutic targets. Then, we found quercetin and kaempferol are two key ingredients of JQHF, which may act on the top 10 screened targets of PPI, affecting CGN through related signal transduction pathways. Subsequently, molecular docking predicted that quercetin and kaempferol bind firm with the top 10 core targets of PPI. Further experiment verified some results and showed that JQHF has protected glomerular mesangial cells from lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation by inhibiting expressions of IL6, TNF-α, and AKT1, and activating expressions of VEGFA. Based on network pharmacology, we explored the multi-component, multi-target, and multi-pathway characteristics of JQHF in treating CGN, and found that JQHF could act on IL6, TNF-α, VEGFA, and AKT1 to exert the effect of anti-CGN, which provided new ideas and methods for further research on the mechanism of JQHF in treating CGN.
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Zhang Y, Yang Y, Ding L, Wang Z, Xiao Y, Xiao W. Emerging Applications of Metabolomics to Assess the Efficacy of Traditional Chinese Medicines for Treating Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:735410. [PMID: 34603052 PMCID: PMC8486080 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.735410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetes is a common and complex disease that can exacerbate the complications related to cardiovascular disease, and this is especially true for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). In addition to the standard pharmacological therapies, T2DM has also been treated with nonconventional regimens such as traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), e.g., herbal medicines and TCM prescriptions, although the mechanisms underlying the therapeutic benefits remain unclear. In this regard, many studies have used metabolomics technology to elucidate the basis for the efficacy of TCM for T2DM. Metabolomics has recently attracted much attention with regard to drug discovery and pharmacologically relevant natural products. In this review, we summarize the application of metabolomics to the assessment of TCM efficacy for treating T2DM. Increasing evidence suggests that the metabolic profile of an individual patient may reflect a specific type of T2DM syndrome, which may provide a new perspective for disease diagnosis. In addition, TCM has proved effective for countering the metabolic disorders related to T2DM, and this may constitute the basis for TCM efficacy. Therefore, further determining how TCM contributes to the reversal of metabolic disorders, such as using network pharmacology or by assessing the contribution of host–gut microbiota interactions, will also provide researchers with new potential targets for pharmacologic-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yumeng Zhang
- The Ministry of Education (MOE) Key Laboratory for Standardization of Chinese Medicines, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yingbo Yang
- The Ministry of Education (MOE) Key Laboratory for Standardization of Chinese Medicines, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Jiangsu Kanion Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Lianyungang, China
| | - Lili Ding
- The Ministry of Education (MOE) Key Laboratory for Standardization of Chinese Medicines, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhengtao Wang
- The Ministry of Education (MOE) Key Laboratory for Standardization of Chinese Medicines, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ying Xiao
- The Ministry of Education (MOE) Key Laboratory for Standardization of Chinese Medicines, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Xiao
- The Ministry of Education (MOE) Key Laboratory for Standardization of Chinese Medicines, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Jiangsu Kanion Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Lianyungang, China
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21
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Liang P, Mao L, Ma Y, Ren W, Yang S. A systematic review on Zhilong Huoxue Tongyu capsule in treating cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases: Pharmacological actions, molecular mechanisms and clinical outcomes. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 277:114234. [PMID: 34044079 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2021.114234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases have become a severe threat for human health worldwide, however, optimal therapeutic options are still developed. Zhilong Huoxue Tongyu capsule (ZL capsule) is mainly composed of Astragalus membranaceus, Leech, Earthworm, Cinnamomum cassia and Sargentodoxa cuneata, having functions of replenishing qi and activating blood, dispelling wind and reducing phlegm. It is an expanded application on the basis of traditional uses of above TCMs, acquiring a satisfactory curative effect on cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases over twenty years. AIM OF THE STUDY To comprehensively summarize the main components of ZL capsule, understand the mechanisms of ZL capsule, and conclude clinical regimens of ZL capsule for cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. MATERIALS AND METHODS We selected network pharmacology technology to analyze main active compounds and predict underlying mechanism of ZL capsule against atherosclerosis. Molecular docking was performed to simulate the interaction pattern between the active components of ZL capsule and putative targets. Further, PubMed, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure and Google Scholar were used to search literatures, with the key words of "Zhilong Huoxue Tongyu capsule", "cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases", "atherosclerosis", "clinical study" and their combinations, mainly from 2000 to 2020. RESULTS Both network pharmacology analysis, molecular docking and animal experiments studies confirmed that mechanisms of ZL capsule plays the role of anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptosis and promoting angiogenesis in treating cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases by multi-components acting on multi-targets via multi-pathways. Over 1000 clinical cases were benefited from the treatment of ZL capsule, suggesting a holistic concept of "the same therapy for different myocardial and cerebral diseases". CONCLUSIONS For the first time, this systematic review may supply meaningful information for further studies to explore material basis and pharmacodynamics of ZL capsule and also provide a basis for sharing the "Chinese patent medicine" for cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pan Liang
- National Traditional Chinese Medicine Clinical Research Base, Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China; Drug Research Center of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Linshen Mao
- National Traditional Chinese Medicine Clinical Research Base, Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China; Drug Research Center of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Yue Ma
- National Traditional Chinese Medicine Clinical Research Base, Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China; Drug Research Center of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Wei Ren
- National Traditional Chinese Medicine Clinical Research Base, Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China; Drug Research Center of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China.
| | - Sijin Yang
- National Traditional Chinese Medicine Clinical Research Base, Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China; Drug Research Center of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China.
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22
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Hung TC, Zhao N, Huang C, Liu S, Liu T, Huang W, Xu X, Ji ZL, Yang S. Exploring the mechanism of PingTang No.5 capsule on nonalcoholic fatty liver disease through network pharmacology and experimental validation. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 138:111408. [PMID: 33684693 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.111408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Revised: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
PingTang No.5 capsule (PT5), a modified Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) formula of Zexie Decoction, is used to treat patients with lipid metabolism disorders in our hospital. The present study was designed to investigate the mechanisms of PT5 in treating non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). PT5 information including ingredients, pharmacological properties, and potential targets was obtained from TCM databases. The candidate targets of PT5 were predicted by network pharmacological analysis, and the possible pathway and mechanism were obtained from DAVID database, followed by experimental validation in NAFLD mice model treated with PT5. Total 328 compounds were selected using the threshold oral bioactivity (OB) > 30% or drug-likeness (DL) > 0.1 of pharmacology characteristic, and 1033 candidate targets obtained to construct the network analysis. The 113 targets were selected from the intersection between candidate targets of PT5 and NAFLD relative gene. These targets were evaluated in diabetic complications, cancer, Hepatitis B, Fluid shear stress and atherosclerosis, and TNF signaling pathway. TNF-α was the important factor in protein interaction analysis of STRING and involved in the lipid regulation and oxidative stress in NAFLD. When administrated to the NAFLD mice, PT5 reduced weight, blood fatty acids, decreased the adipocyte size, and improved the metabolism. Besides, the molecular verification of lipid metabolism increased and oxidative stress reduced that interpreted the mechanism of PT5 preventing liver cell from lipid accumulation and injury of NAFLD. These results presented PT5 have the potential therapy as an alternative treatment for NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tzu-Chieh Hung
- Traditional Chinese Medicine research studio, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen 361000, China
| | - Nengjiang Zhao
- Traditional Chinese Medicine research studio, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen 361000, China
| | - Caoxin Huang
- Xiamen Diabetes Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China; Xiamen Clinical Medical Center for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Xiamen, China; Fujian Province Key Laboratory of Diabetes Translational Medicine, Xiamen, China
| | - Suhuan Liu
- Research Center for Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Tao Liu
- Traditional Chinese Medicine research studio, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen 361000, China
| | - Wenfang Huang
- Xiamen Diabetes Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China; Xiamen Hospital of T.C.M., Xiamen, China
| | - Xiangbin Xu
- Traditional Chinese Medicine research studio, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen 361000, China
| | - Zhi-Liang Ji
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China; The Key Laboratory for Chemical Biology of Fujian Province, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China.
| | - Shuyu Yang
- Traditional Chinese Medicine research studio, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen 361000, China.
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Liu YL, Zhou ZY, Gao M, Ji G, Huang C, Fan SJ. Therapeutic effects of herbal formula Huangqisan on metabolic disorders via SREBF1, SCD1 and AMPK signaling pathway. JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE 2021; 19:167-176. [PMID: 33279449 DOI: 10.1016/j.joim.2020.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Metabolic syndrome is a complex medical condition that has become an alarming epidemic, but an effective therapy for this disease is still lacking. The use of the herbal formula Huangqisan (HQS) to treat diabetes is documented in the Chinese medical literature as early as 1117 A.D.; however, its therapeutic effects and underlying mechanisms remain elusive. METHODS To investigate the beneficial effects of HQS on metabolic disorders, high-fat diet-induced obesity (DIO), leptin receptor dysfunction (db/db) and low-density lipoprotein receptor-knockout (LDLR-/-) mice were used. Obese mice were treated with either HQS or vehicle. Blood, liver tissue, white fat tissue and brown adipose tissue were harvested at the end of the treatment. Metabolic disease-related parameters were evaluated to test effects of HQS against diabetes, obesity and hyperlipidemia. Aortic arches from LDLR-/- mice were analyzed to investigate the effects of HQS on atherosclerosis. RNA-sequence, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and Western blot were performed to investigate the mechanisms of HQS against metabolic disorder. RESULTS HQS lowered body weight, fasting blood glucose and serum lipid levels and improved glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity in DIO mice and db/db mice (P < 0.05). HQS also blocked atherosclerotic plaque formation in LDLR-/- mice. HQS suppressed de novo lipid synthesis by reducing the expression of messenger RNA for sterol regulatory element-binding factor 1, stearyl coenzyme A desaturase 1 and fatty acid synthase, and enhancing adenosine 5'-monophosphate-activated protein kinase signaling in both in vivo and in vitro experiments, indicating potential mechanisms for HQS's activity against diabetes. CONCLUSION HQS is effective for reversing metabolic disorder and has the potential to be used as therapy for metabolic syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Lei Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Zhen-Yu Zhou
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Min Gao
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China; College of Pharmacy, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Guang Ji
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Cheng Huang
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Sheng-Jie Fan
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
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Liu F, Pei S, Li W, Wang X, Liang C, Yang R, Zhang Z, Yao X, Fang D, Xie S, Sun H. Characterization of Formononetin Sulfonation in SULT1A3 Overexpressing HKE293 Cells: Involvement of Multidrug Resistance-Associated Protein 4 in Excretion of Sulfate. Front Pharmacol 2021; 11:614756. [PMID: 33510641 PMCID: PMC7836013 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.614756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Formononetin is one of the main active compounds of traditional Chinese herbal medicine Astragalus membranaceus. However, disposition of formononetin via sulfonation pathway remains undefined. Here, expression-activity correlation was performed to identify the contributing of SULT1A3 to formononetin metabolism. Then the sulfonation of formononetin and excretion of its sulfate were investigated in SULT1A3 overexpressing human embryonic kidney 293 cells (or HKE-SULT1A3 cells) with significant expression of breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP) and multidrug resistance-associated protein 4 (MRP4). As a result, formononetin sulfonation was significantly correlated with SULT1A3 protein levels (r = 0.728; p < 0.05) in a bank of individual human intestine S9 fractions (n = 9). HEK-SULT1A3 cells catalyzed formononetin formation of a monosulfate metabolite. Sulfate formation of formononetin in HEK-SULT1A3 cell lysate followed the Michaelis-Menten kinetics (Vmax = 13.94 pmol/min/mg and Km = 6.17 μM). Reduced activity of MRP4 by MK-571 caused significant decrease in the excretion rate (79.1%–94.6%) and efflux clearance (85.3%–98.0%) of formononetin sulfate, whereas the BCRP specific inhibitor Ko143 had no effect. Furthermore, silencing of MRP4 led to obvious decrease in sulfate excretion rates (>32.8%) and efflux clearance (>50.6%). It was worth noting that the fraction of dose metabolized (fmet), an indicator of the extent of drug sulfonation, was also decreased (maximal 26.7%) with the knockdown of MRP4. In conclusion, SULT1A3 was of great significance in determining sulfonation of formononetin. HEK-SULT1A3 cells catalyzed formononetin formation of a monosulfate. MRP4 mainly contributed to cellular excretion of formononetin sulfate and further mediated the intracellular sulfonation of formononetin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fanye Liu
- Institute for Innovative Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Shuhua Pei
- Institute for Innovative Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Wenqi Li
- Institute for Innovative Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Xiao Wang
- Institute for Innovative Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Chao Liang
- Institute for Innovative Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Ruohan Yang
- Institute for Innovative Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Zhansheng Zhang
- Institute for Innovative Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Xin Yao
- Institute for Innovative Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Dong Fang
- Institute for Innovative Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Songqiang Xie
- Institute of Chemical Biology, School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Hua Sun
- Institute for Innovative Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
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Analysis of the Molecular Mechanisms of the Effects of Prunella vulgaris against Subacute Thyroiditis Based on Network Pharmacology. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2020; 2020:9810709. [PMID: 33273957 PMCID: PMC7676928 DOI: 10.1155/2020/9810709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2020] [Revised: 08/16/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Prunella vulgaris (PV) has a long history of application in traditional Chinese and Western medicine as a remedy for the treatment of subacute thyroiditis (SAT). This study applied network pharmacology to elucidate the mechanism of the effects of PV against SAT. Components of the potential therapeutic targets of PV and SAT-related targets were retrieved from databases. To construct a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network, the intersection of SAT-related targets and PV-related targets was input into the STRING platform. Gene ontology (GO) analysis and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis were carried out using the DAVID database. Networks were constructed by Cytoscape for visualization. The results showed that a total of 11 compounds were identified according to the pharmacokinetic parameters of ADME. A total of 126 PV-related targets and 2207 SAT-related targets were collected, and 83 overlapping targets were subsequently obtained. The results of the KEGG pathway and compound-target-pathway (C-T-P) network analysis suggested that the anti-SAT effect of PV mainly occurs through quercetin, luteolin, kaempferol, and beta-sitosterol and is most closely associated with their regulation of inflammation and apoptosis by targeting the PIK3CG, MAPK1, MAPK14, TNF, and PTGS2 proteins and the PI3K-Akt and TNF signaling pathways. The study demonstrated that quercetin, luteolin, kaempferol, and beta-sitosterol in PV may play a major role in the treatment of SAT, which was associated with the regulation of inflammation and apoptosis, by targeting the PI3K-Akt and TNF signaling pathways.
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A Network Pharmacology to Explore the Mechanism of Astragalus Membranaceus in the Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2020; 2020:8878569. [PMID: 33204295 PMCID: PMC7652614 DOI: 10.1155/2020/8878569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2020] [Revised: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 10/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Background Diabetic retinopathy (DR) includes a series of typical lesions affected by retinal microvascular damage caused by diabetes mellitus (DM), which not only seriously damages the vision, affecting the life's quality of patients, but also brings a considerable burden to the family and society. Astragalus Membranaceus (AM) is a commonly used medicine in clinical therapy of eye disorders in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). In recent years, it is also used for treating DR, but the specific mechanism is unclear. Therefore, this study explores the potential mechanism of AM in DR treatment by using network pharmacology. Methods Based on the oral bioavailability (OB) and drug likeness (DL) of two ADME (absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion) parameters, Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database (TCMSP), Swiss Target Prediction platform, GeneCards, and OMIM database were used to predict and screen the active compounds of AM, the core targets of AM in DR treatment. The Metascape data platform was used to perform Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis on the core targets. Results 24 active compounds were obtained, such as quercetin, kaempferol, and astragaloside IV. There were 169 effective targets of AM in DR treatment, and the targets were further screened and finally, 38 core targets were obtained, such as VEGFA, AKT1, and IL-6. EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance, AGE-RAGE signaling pathway in diabetic complications, PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, and other metabolic pathways participated in oxidative stress, cell apoptosis, angiogenesis signal transduction, inflammation, and other biological processes. Conclusion AM treats DR through multiple compounds, multiple targets, and multiple pathways. AM may play a role in the treatment of DR by targeting VEGFA, AKT1, and IL-6 and participating in oxidative stress, angiogenesis, and inflammation.
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Wu Q, Hu Y. Integrated network pharmacology and molecular docking strategy to explore the mechanism of medicinal and edible Astragali Radix-Atractylodis Macrocephalae Rhizoma acting on pneumonia via immunomodulation. J Food Biochem 2020; 44:e13510. [PMID: 33025599 DOI: 10.1111/jfbc.13510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2020] [Revised: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Pneumonia refers to a death-causing infection. Astragali Radix (AR) and Atractylodis Macrocephalae Rhizoma (AMR) are widely used as traditional tonic and promising edible immunomodulatory herbal medicine, but the systemic mechanism is not well understood. Therefore, a strategy based on network pharmacology and molecular docking was designed to explore the systemic mechanism of AR-AMR acting on pneumonia. After a series of bioinformatics assays, seven kernel targets were obtained, including TNF, IL6, IFNG, IL1B, IL10, IL4, and TLR9. And seven key compounds were identified as the synergy components of AR-AMR acting on pneumonia, the four key compounds belonging to AR were (3R)-3-(2-hydroxy-3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)-7-chromanol, formononetin, quercetin, and kaempferol, the three key compounds belonging to AMR were atractylone, 14-acetyl-12-senecioyl-2E, 8E, 10E-atractylentriol, and α-Amyrin. The crucial pathways were mainly related to three modules, including immune diseases, infectious disease, and organismal systems. Collectively, these observations strongly suggest that the molecular mechanisms of AR-AMR regulating pneumonia were closely related to the correlation between inflammation and immune response. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Astragali radix and Atractylodis macrocephalae rhizoma can be used as "medicine-food homology" for dietary supplement. AR and AMR are widely used as a traditional tonic and promising edible immunomodulatory herbal medicine. The AR-AMR herb pairs are used for compatibility many times in the recommended prescriptions in COVID-19 develop pneumonia in China. However, the ingredients and mechanisms of AR-AMR acting on Pneumonia via immunomodulation are unclear. In this paper, bioinformatics and network biology were used to systematically explore the mechanisms of the AR-AMR herb pairs in treatment of pneumonia, and further analyze the correlation mechanism between it and COVID-19 develop pneumonia. To sum up, our study reveals the interrelationships between components, targets, and corresponding biological processes of AR-AMR acting on pneumonia. Understanding these relationships may provide guidance and theoretical basis for the further application of AR-AMR herb pairs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiguo Wu
- Department of Pharmacy, Anqing Medical College, Anqing, China.,Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yeqing Hu
- Institute of Liver Diseases, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Xu F, Chen J, Zhang Y, Wu Q, Shen Y, Gu W, Liu S, Lu C, Liao H, Bao K. Molecular insight into the mechanism of lipid regulating effect of Alisma orientalis based on ACAT. Int J Biol Macromol 2020; 158:1141-1162. [PMID: 32376257 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2020.04.260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Revised: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
We studied the lipid-regulating effect and molecular mechanism of the medical components of Alisma orientalis: alisol A, alisol B, 23-acetyl alisol C (23C) and the 3 (alisol A): 1(alisol B):1(23C) and 2(alisol A):2(alisol B):1(23C) mixtures designed based on the ratio of them in Alisma orientalis from Fujian, Guangxi Province, China. The animal experiment and network pharmacology showed that ACAT was one of its lipid-regulating targets and alisols may reduce the level of TC by inhibiting ACAT activity. The molecular simulation and homologous modeling results suggested that the binding of alisol mixtures with ACAT was stronger than that of monomers because alisol monomers acted on different active regions of ACAT resulting in the superposition effect and caused the synergistic effect. The lipid-regulating effect of Fujian mixture was stronger than that of Guangxi mixture showing that 3:1:1 was a better ratio. The N-terminal lipid-regulating activity of ACAT was stronger than that of transmembrane domain 1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Xu
- College of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Jun Chen
- College of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Yun Zhang
- College of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Qinan Wu
- College of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization, Nanjing 210023, China; National and Local Collaborative Engineering Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization and Formulae Innovative Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Yuqing Shen
- Department of Neurology, Taizhou Second People's Hospital, Taizhou 225500, China.
| | - Wei Gu
- College of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China.
| | - Shengjin Liu
- College of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Cai Lu
- College of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Haiying Liao
- College of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China.
| | - Ke Bao
- College of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
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