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Yang S, Chen Q, You Y, Wu C, Chen M, Yang AWH, Sun X, Hung A, Zhao X, Li H. Molecular mechanisms of Lycii Fructus (Goji berries) against xanthine dehydrogenase in hyperuricemia management: Integrating computational, metabolomic, and experimental approaches. Food Res Int 2025; 204:115926. [PMID: 39986773 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2025.115926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2024] [Revised: 02/02/2025] [Accepted: 02/03/2025] [Indexed: 02/24/2025]
Abstract
Lycii Fructus (LF), commonly known as Goji berries, has shown potential for managing hyperuricemia, though its underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. This study employs a combination of network-based systems pharmacology, computer-aided drug discovery, untargeted metabolomics and experiments to explore the urate-lowering effects of LF. Molecular docking simulations of 3,760 LF compound-target interactions identified xanthine dehydrogenase (XDH) as a key target. Among the compounds, glycitein exhibited the highest binding affinity in molecular dynamics simulations. Metabolomics confirmed the presence of glycitein in LF particles, and it significantly reduced urate levels in hyperuricemia zebrafish models. Further in vitro assays and Cellular Thermal Shift Assays corroborated its inhibitory effect on xanthine oxidase. These findings suggest that glycitein may serve as a novel inhibitor of xanthine oxidase, with potential applications in nutraceuticals, functional foods, and drug development for hyperuricemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuxuan Yang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, China
| | - Qinghong Chen
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, China
| | - Yanting You
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, China
| | - Chuanghai Wu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, China
| | - Meilin Chen
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, China
| | - Angela Wei Hong Yang
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, STEM College, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria 3083, Australia
| | - Xiaomin Sun
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, China
| | - Andrew Hung
- School of Science, STEM College, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia.
| | - Xiaoshan Zhao
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, China; Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, China.
| | - Hong Li
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, China; School of Science, STEM College, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia.
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Ullah Z, Yue P, Mao G, Zhang M, Liu P, Wu X, Zhao T, Yang L. A comprehensive review on recent xanthine oxidase inhibitors of dietary based bioactive substances for the treatment of hyperuricemia and gout: Molecular mechanisms and perspective. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 278:134832. [PMID: 39168219 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.134832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2024] [Revised: 08/14/2024] [Accepted: 08/15/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024]
Abstract
Hyperuricemia (HUA) has attained a considerable global health concern, related to the development of other metabolic syndromes. Xanthine oxidase (XO), the main enzyme that catalyzes xanthine and hypoxanthine into uric acid (UA), is a key target for drug development against HUA and gout. Available XO inhibitors are effective, but they come with side effects. Recent, research has identified new XO inhibitors from dietary sources such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, stilbenes, alkaloids, polysaccharides, and polypeptides, effectively reducing UA levels. Structural activity studies revealed that -OH groups and their substitutions on the benzene ring of flavonoids, polyphenols, and stilbenes, cyclic rings in alkaloids, and the helical structure of polysaccharides are crucial for XO inhibition. Polypeptide molecular weight, amino acid sequence, hydrophobicity, and binding mode, also play a significant role in XO inhibition. Molecular docking studies show these bioactive components prevent UA formation by interacting with XO substrates via hydrophobic, hydrogen bonds, and π-π interactions. This review explores the potential bioactive substances from dietary resources with XO inhibitory, and UA lowering potentials detailing the molecular mechanisms involved. It also discusses strategies for designing XO inhibitors and assisting pharmaceutical companies in developing safe and effective treatments for HUA and gout.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zain Ullah
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu University, Xuefu Road 301, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Panpan Yue
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu University, Xuefu Road 301, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Guanghua Mao
- School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Xuefu Rd. 301, Zhenjiang 212013, Jiangsu, China
| | - Min Zhang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu University, Xuefu Road 301, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Peng Liu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu University, Xuefu Road 301, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Xiangyang Wu
- School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Xuefu Rd. 301, Zhenjiang 212013, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ting Zhao
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu University, Xuefu Road 301, Zhenjiang 212013, China.
| | - Liuqing Yang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu University, Xuefu Road 301, Zhenjiang 212013, China.
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Mehmood A, Iftikhar A, Chen X. Food-derived bioactive peptides with anti-hyperuricemic activity: A comprehensive review. Food Chem 2024; 451:139444. [PMID: 38678657 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2024.139444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
Hyperuricemia (HU) is a metabolic disorder caused by the overproduction or underexcretion of uric acid (UA) in the human body. Several approved drugs for the treatment of HU are available in the market; however, all these allopathic drugs exhibit multiple side effects. Therefore, the development of safe and effective anti-HU drugs is an urgent need. Natural compounds derived from foods and plants have the potential to decrease UA levels. Recently, food-derived bioactive peptides (FBPs) have gained attention as a functional ingredient owing to their biological activities. In the current review, we aim to explore the urate-lowering potential and the underlying mechanisms of FBPs. We found that FBPs mitigate HU by reducing blood UA levels through inhibiting key enzymes such as xanthine oxidase, increasing renal UA excretion, inhibiting renal UA reabsorption, increasing anti-oxidant activities, regulating inflammatory mediators, and addressing gut microbiota dysbiosis. In conclusion, FBPs exhibit strong potential to ameliorate HU.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arshad Mehmood
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Jiangsu University, 301 Xuefu Road, Jingkou District, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212013, PR China; Institute of Food Physical Processing, Jiangsu University, 301 Xuefu Road, Jingkou District, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212013, PR China
| | - Asra Iftikhar
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Faisalabad, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan and Akhtar Saeed College of Pharmacy, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
| | - Xiumin Chen
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Jiangsu University, 301 Xuefu Road, Jingkou District, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212013, PR China; Institute of Food Physical Processing, Jiangsu University, 301 Xuefu Road, Jingkou District, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212013, PR China; International Joint Research Laboratory of Intelligent Agriculture and Agri-products Processing, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China.
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Liu X, Zhang L, Lai B, Li J, Zang J, Ma L. Harnessing Protein Hydrolysates and Peptides for Hyperuricemia Management: Insights into Sources, Mechanisms, Techniques, and Future Directions. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2024; 72:18758-18773. [PMID: 39161084 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.4c03605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/21/2024]
Abstract
Hyperuricemia (HUA) is a metabolic disorder characterized by an imbalance in uric acid production and excretion, frequently leading to gout and various chronic conditions. Novel bioactive compounds offer effective alternatives for managing HUA, reducing side effects of traditional medications. Recent studies have highlighted the therapeutic potential of protein hydrolysates and peptides in managing HUA. This review focuses on preparing and applying protein hydrolysates to treat HUA and explores peptides for xanthine oxidase inhibition. Particularly, we discuss their origins, enzymatic approaches, and mechanisms of action in detail. The review provides an updated understanding of HUA pathogenesis, current pharmacological interventions, and methodologies for the preparation, purification, identification, and assessment of these compounds. Furthermore, to explore the application of protein hydrolysates and peptides in the food industry, we also address challenges and propose solutions related to the safety, bitterness, oral delivery, and the integration of artificial intelligence in peptide discovery. Bridging traditional pharmacological approaches and innovative dietary interventions, this study paves the way for future research and development in HUA management, contributing to the utilization of proteins from different food sources. In conclusion, protein hydrolysates and peptides show significant promise as safe agents and dietary interventions for preventing and treating HUA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyu Liu
- College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Boyin Lai
- College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Jingming Li
- College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Jiachen Zang
- College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Liyan Ma
- College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083, China
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Chen Y, Li H, Cai Y, Wang K, Wang Y. Anti-hyperuricemia bioactive peptides: a review on obtaining, activity, and mechanism of action. Food Funct 2024; 15:5714-5736. [PMID: 38752330 DOI: 10.1039/d4fo00760c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
Hyperuricemia, a disorder of uric acid metabolism, serves as a significant risk factor for conditions such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, renal failure, and various metabolic syndromes. The main contributors to hyperuricemia include overproduction of uric acid in the liver or impaired excretion in the kidneys. Despite traditional clinical drugs being employed for its treatment, significant health concerns persist. Recently, there has been growing interest in utilizing protein peptides sourced from diverse food origins to mitigate hyperuricemia. This article provides a comprehensive review of bioactive peptides with anti-hyperuricemia properties derived from animals, plants, and their products. We specifically outline the methods for preparing these peptides from food proteins and elucidate their efficacy and mechanisms in combating hyperuricemia, supported by in vitro and in vivo evidence. Uric acid-lowering peptides offer promising prospects due to their safer profile, enhanced efficacy, and improved bioavailability. Therefore, this review underscores significant advancements and contributions in identifying peptides capable of metabolizing purine and/or uric acid, thereby alleviating hyperuricemia. Moreover, it offers a theoretical foundation for the development of functional foods incorporating uric acid-lowering peptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Chen
- Key Laboratory of Geriatric Nutrition and Health, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing, China
| | - Hongyan Li
- Key Laboratory of Geriatric Nutrition and Health, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing, China
| | - Yunfei Cai
- Key Laboratory of Geriatric Nutrition and Health, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing, China
| | - Ke Wang
- Key Laboratory of Geriatric Nutrition and Health, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing, China
- Institute of Modern Fermentation Engineering and Future Foods, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China
- College of Light Industry and Food Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China
- Rizhao Huawei Institute of Comprehensive Health Industries, Shandong Keepfit Biotech. Co. Ltd., Rizhao, 276800, China
| | - Yousheng Wang
- Institute of Modern Fermentation Engineering and Future Foods, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China
- College of Light Industry and Food Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China
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Deng Q, Wang XQ, Meng FY, Peng ZN, Yan WT, Liu N, Peng JY. Zebrafish model of hyperuricemia. Int J Rheum Dis 2024; 27:e15160. [PMID: 38685792 DOI: 10.1111/1756-185x.15160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2024] [Revised: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Qian Deng
- First School of Clinical Medicine, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Xing-Qiang Wang
- Department of Rheumatology, The No.1 Affiliated Hospital of Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Fan-Yu Meng
- First School of Clinical Medicine, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Zi-Ning Peng
- First School of Clinical Medicine, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Wei-Tian Yan
- First School of Clinical Medicine, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Nian Liu
- First School of Clinical Medicine, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Jiang-Yun Peng
- Department of Rheumatology, The No.1 Affiliated Hospital of Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Kunming, Yunnan, China
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Wang L, Zhang X, Shen J, Wei Y, Zhao T, Xiao N, Lv X, Qin D, Xu Y, Zhou Y, Xie J, Li Z, Xie Z. Models of gouty nephropathy: exploring disease mechanisms and identifying potential therapeutic targets. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 11:1305431. [PMID: 38487029 PMCID: PMC10937455 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1305431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Gouty nephropathy (GN) is a metabolic disease with persistently elevated blood uric acid levels. The main manifestations of GN are crystalline kidney stones, chronic interstitial nephritis, and renal fibrosis. Understanding the mechanism of the occurrence and development of GN is crucial to the development of new drugs for prevention and treatment of GN. Currently, most studies exploring the pathogenesis of GN are primarily based on animal and cell models. Numerous studies have shown that inflammation, oxidative stress, and programmed cell death mediated by uric acid and sodium urate are involved in the pathogenesis of GN. In this article, we first review the mechanisms underlying the abnormal intrinsic immune activation and programmed cell death in GN and then describe the characteristics and methods used to develop animal and cell models of GN caused by elevated uric acid and deposited sodium urate crystals. Finally, we propose potential animal models for GN caused by abnormally high uric acid levels, thereby provide a reference for further investigating the methods and mechanisms of GN and developing better prevention and treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Jing Xie
- Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Zhaofu Li
- Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Zhaohu Xie
- Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Kunming, Yunnan, China
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