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Li M, Meng Y, Hong X, Chai H, Huang J, Wang F, Zhang W, Wang J, Liu Q, Xu Y. Anti-atherosclerotic effect of tetrahydroxy stilbene glucoside via dual-targeting of hepatic lipid metabolisms and aortic M2 macrophage polarization in ApoE -/- mice. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2024; 248:116338. [PMID: 38971092 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2024.116338] [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: 11/25/2023] [Revised: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024]
Abstract
Tetrahydroxy stilbene glucoside (TSG) is a water-soluble natural product that has shown potential in treating atherosclerosis (AS). However, its underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we demonstrate that an 8-week TSG treatment (100 mg/kg/d) significantly reduces atherosclerotic lesions and alleviates dyslipidemia symptoms in ApoE-/- mice. 1H nuclear magnetic resonance metabolomic analysis reveals differences in both lipid components and water-soluble metabolites in the livers of AS mice compared to control groups, and TSG treatment shifts the metabolic profiles of AS mice towards a normal state. At the transcriptional level, TSG significantly restores the expression of fatty acid metabolism-related genes (Srepb-1c, Fasn, Scd1, Gpat1, Dgat1, Pparα and Cpt1α), and regulates the expression levels of disturbed cholesterol metabolism-related genes (Srebp2, Hmgcr, Ldlr, Acat1, Acat2 and Cyp7a1) associated with lipid metabolism. Furthermore, at the cellular level, TSG remarkably polarizes aortic macrophages to their M2 phenotype. Our data demonstrate that TSG alleviates arthrosclerosis by dual-targeting to hepatic lipid metabolism and aortic M2 macrophage polarization in ApoE-/- mice, with significant implications for translational medicine and the treatment of AS using natural products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minghui Li
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Enzymology and Mechanism of Major Diseases, College of Life Sciences, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu 241000, China
| | - Yuanyuan Meng
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Enzymology and Mechanism of Major Diseases, College of Life Sciences, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu 241000, China
| | - Xuelian Hong
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Enzymology and Mechanism of Major Diseases, College of Life Sciences, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu 241000, China
| | - Hui Chai
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Enzymology and Mechanism of Major Diseases, College of Life Sciences, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu 241000, China
| | - Jianye Huang
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Enzymology and Mechanism of Major Diseases, College of Life Sciences, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu 241000, China
| | - Fengge Wang
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Enzymology and Mechanism of Major Diseases, College of Life Sciences, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu 241000, China
| | - Wenjie Zhang
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Enzymology and Mechanism of Major Diseases, College of Life Sciences, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu 241000, China
| | - Juncheng Wang
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Enzymology and Mechanism of Major Diseases, College of Life Sciences, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu 241000, China
| | - Qingwang Liu
- Institute of Heath & Medical Technology, Hefei Institute of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei 230031, China.
| | - Yuekang Xu
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Enzymology and Mechanism of Major Diseases, College of Life Sciences, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu 241000, China.
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Ai J, Tang X, Mao B, Zhang Q, Zhao J, Chen W, Cui S. Gut microbiota: a superior operator for dietary phytochemicals to improve atherosclerosis. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2024:1-23. [PMID: 38940319 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2024.2369169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Mounting evidence implicates the gut microbiota as a possible key susceptibility factor for atherosclerosis (AS). The employment of dietary phytochemicals that strive to target the gut microbiota has gained scientific support for treating AS. This study conducted a general overview of the links between the gut microbiota and AS, and summarized available evidence that dietary phytochemicals improve AS via manipulating gut microbiota. Then, the microbial metabolism of several dietary phytochemicals was summarized, along with a discussion on the metabolites formed and the biotransformation pathways involving key gut bacteria and enzymes. This study additionally focused on the anti-atherosclerotic potential of representative metabolites from dietary phytochemicals, and investigated their underlying molecular mechanisms. In summary, microbiota-dependent dietary phytochemical therapy is a promising strategy for AS management, and knowledge of "phytochemical-microbiota-biotransformation" may be a breakthrough in the search for novel anti-atherogenic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Ai
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Xin Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Bingyong Mao
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Qiuxiang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Jianxin Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Wei Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
- National Engineering Research Center for Functional Food, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Shumao Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
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Duarte RDC, Iannetta PPM, Gomes AM, Vasconcelos MW. More than a meat- or synthetic nitrogen fertiliser-substitute: a review of legume phytochemicals as drivers of 'One Health' via their influence on the functional diversity of soil- and gut-microbes. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2024; 15:1337653. [PMID: 38450400 PMCID: PMC10915056 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2024.1337653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
Legumes are essential to healthy agroecosystems, with a rich phytochemical content that impacts overall human and animal well-being and environmental sustainability. While these phytochemicals can have both positive and negative effects, legumes have traditionally been bred to produce genotypes with lower levels of certain plant phytochemicals, specifically those commonly termed as 'antifeedants' including phenolic compounds, saponins, alkaloids, tannins, and raffinose family oligosaccharides (RFOs). However, when incorporated into a balanced diet, such legume phytochemicals can offer health benefits for both humans and animals. They can positively influence the human gut microbiome by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria, contributing to gut health, and demonstrating anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Beyond their nutritional value, legume phytochemicals also play a vital role in soil health. The phytochemical containing residues from their shoots and roots usually remain in-field to positively affect soil nutrient status and microbiome diversity, so enhancing soil functions and benefiting performance and yield of following crops. This review explores the role of legume phytochemicals from a 'one health' perspective, examining their on soil- and gut-microbial ecology, bridging the gap between human nutrition and agroecological science.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael D. C. Duarte
- Universidade Católica Portuguesa, CBQF - Centro de Biotecnologia e Química Fina – Laboratório Associado, Escola Superior de Biotecnologia, Porto, Portugal
| | - Pietro P. M. Iannetta
- Universidade Católica Portuguesa, CBQF - Centro de Biotecnologia e Química Fina – Laboratório Associado, Escola Superior de Biotecnologia, Porto, Portugal
- Ecological Sciences, James Hutton Institute, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | - Ana M. Gomes
- Universidade Católica Portuguesa, CBQF - Centro de Biotecnologia e Química Fina – Laboratório Associado, Escola Superior de Biotecnologia, Porto, Portugal
| | - Marta W. Vasconcelos
- Universidade Católica Portuguesa, CBQF - Centro de Biotecnologia e Química Fina – Laboratório Associado, Escola Superior de Biotecnologia, Porto, Portugal
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4
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Fan C, Xu J, Tong H, Fang Y, Chen Y, Lin Y, Chen R, Chen F, Wu G. Gut-brain communication mediates the impact of dietary lipids on cognitive capacity. Food Funct 2024; 15:1803-1824. [PMID: 38314832 DOI: 10.1039/d3fo05288e] [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: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Cognitive impairment, as a prevalent symptom of nervous system disorders, poses one of the most challenging aspects in the management of brain diseases. Lipids present in the cell membranes of all neurons within the brain and dietary lipids can regulate the cognition and memory function. In recent years, the advancements in gut microbiome research have enabled the exploration of dietary lipids targeting the gut-brain axis as a strategy for regulating cognition. This present review provides an in-depth overview of how lipids modulate cognition via the gut-brain axis depending on metabolic, immune, neural and endocrine pathways. It also comprehensively analyzes the effects of diverse lipids on the gut microbiota and intestinal barrier function, thereby affecting the central nervous system and cognitive capacity. Moreover, comparative analysis of the positive and negative effects is presented between beneficial and detrimental lipids. The former encompass monounsaturated fatty acids, short-chain fatty acids, omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, phospholipids, phytosterols, fungal sterols and bioactive lipid-soluble vitamins, as well as lipid-derived gut metabolites, whereas the latter (detrimental lipids) include medium- or long-chain fatty acids, excessive proportions of n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids, industrial trans fatty acids, and zoosterols. To sum up, the focus of this review is on how gut-brain communication mediates the impact of dietary lipids on cognitive capacity, providing a novel theoretical foundation for promoting brain cognitive health and scientific lipid consumption patterns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenhan Fan
- School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315211, China.
| | - Jingxuan Xu
- School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315211, China.
| | - Haoxiang Tong
- School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315211, China.
| | - Yucheng Fang
- School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315211, China.
| | - Yiming Chen
- School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315211, China.
| | - Yangzhuo Lin
- School of Basic Medical Science, Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315211, P. R. China
| | - Rui Chen
- School of Basic Medical Science, Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315211, P. R. China
| | - Fuhao Chen
- School of Basic Medical Science, Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315211, P. R. China
| | - Guoqing Wu
- School of Public Health, Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315211, China.
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Nandi S, Nag A, Khatua S, Sen S, Chakraborty N, Naskar A, Acharya K, Calina D, Sharifi-Rad J. Anticancer activity and other biomedical properties of β-sitosterol: Bridging phytochemistry and current pharmacological evidence for future translational approaches. Phytother Res 2024; 38:592-619. [PMID: 37929761 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.8061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Sterols, including β-sitosterol, are essential components of cellular membranes in both plant and animal cells. Despite being a major phytosterol in various plant materials, comprehensive scientific knowledge regarding the properties of β-sitosterol and its potential applications is essential for scholarly pursuits and utilization purposes. β-sitosterol shares similar chemical characteristics with cholesterol and exhibits several pharmacological activities without major toxicity. This study aims to bridge the gap between phytochemistry and current pharmacological evidence of β-sitosterol, focusing on its anticancer activity and other biomedical properties. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of β-sitosterol's potential for future translational approaches. A thorough examination of the literature was conducted to gather relevant information on the biological properties of β-sitosterol, particularly its anticancer therapeutic potential. Various databases were searched, including PubMed/MedLine, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Web of Science using appropriate keywords. Studies investigating the effects of β-sitosterol on different types of cancer were analyzed, focusing on mechanisms of action, pharmacological screening, and chemosensitizing properties. Modern pharmacological screening studies have revealed the potential anticancer therapeutic properties of β-sitosterol against various types of cancer, including leukemia, lung, stomach, breast, colon, ovarian, and prostate cancer. β-sitosterol has demonstrated chemosensitizing effects on cancer cells, interfering with multiple cell signaling pathways involved in proliferation, cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, survival, metastasis invasion, angiogenesis, and inflammation. Structural derivatives of β-sitosterol have also shown anti-cancer effects. However, research in the field of drug delivery and the detailed mode of action of β-sitosterol-mediated anticancer activities remains limited. β-sitosterol, as a non-toxic compound with significant pharmacological potential, exhibits promising anticancer effects against various cancer types. Despite being relatively less potent than conventional cancer chemotherapeutics, β-sitosterol holds potential as a safe and effective nutraceutical against cancer. Further comprehensive studies are recommended to explore the biological properties of β-sitosterol, including its mode of action, and develop novel formulations for its potential use in cancer treatment. This review provides a foundation for future investigations and highlights the need for further research on β-sitosterol as a potent superfood in combating cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudeshna Nandi
- Molecular and Applied Mycology and Plant Pathology Laboratory, Department of Botany, University of Calcutta, Kolkata, India
| | - Anish Nag
- Department of Life Sciences, CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Bangalore, India
| | - Somanjana Khatua
- Department of Botany, Faculty of Science, University of Allahabad, Prayagraj, India
| | - Surjit Sen
- Department of Botany, Fakir Chand College, Kolkata, India
| | | | - Arghya Naskar
- Molecular and Applied Mycology and Plant Pathology Laboratory, Department of Botany, University of Calcutta, Kolkata, India
| | - Krishnendu Acharya
- Molecular and Applied Mycology and Plant Pathology Laboratory, Department of Botany, University of Calcutta, Kolkata, India
| | - Daniela Calina
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, Craiova, Romania
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Li S, Chen J, Liu Y, Qiu H, Gao W, Che K, Zhou B, Liu R, Hu W. Preparation of Citral Oleogel and Antimicrobial Properties. Gels 2023; 9:930. [PMID: 38131916 PMCID: PMC10742588 DOI: 10.3390/gels9120930] [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: 11/04/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study was to analyze a natural and safe oleogel with antimicrobial properties that can replace animal fats while lengthening the product's shelf life. The oleogel was created using direct dispersion (MG-SO), and its material characterization exhibited the exceptional performance of the hybrid gelant. Additionally, citral was integrated into the oil gel to prepare the citral oleogel (MG-SO). The antimicrobial nature of the material was examined and the findings revealed that it inhibited the growth of various experimental model bacteria, including Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Aspergillus niger, Botrytis cinerea, and Rhizopus stolonifer. In addition, the material had a comparable inhibitory impact on airborne microorganisms. Lastly, MG-SON was utilized in plant-based meat patties and demonstrated an ability to significantly reduce the growth rate of microorganisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shangjian Li
- School of Pharmacy and Food Science, Zhuhai College of Science and Technology, Zhuhai 519041, China
- College of Life Science, Jilin University, Changchun 130015, China
| | - Jiajia Chen
- Zhuhai Lizhu Microsphere Technology Co., Zhuhai 519000, China
| | - Yuntong Liu
- School of Pharmacy and Food Science, Zhuhai College of Science and Technology, Zhuhai 519041, China
- College of Life Science, Jilin University, Changchun 130015, China
| | - Honghao Qiu
- School of Pharmacy and Food Science, Zhuhai College of Science and Technology, Zhuhai 519041, China
- College of Life Science, Jilin University, Changchun 130015, China
| | - Wei Gao
- School of Pharmacy and Food Science, Zhuhai College of Science and Technology, Zhuhai 519041, China
- College of Life Science, Jilin University, Changchun 130015, China
| | - Kundian Che
- School of Pharmacy and Food Science, Zhuhai College of Science and Technology, Zhuhai 519041, China
- College of Life Science, Jilin University, Changchun 130015, China
| | - Baogang Zhou
- School of Pharmacy and Food Science, Zhuhai College of Science and Technology, Zhuhai 519041, China
- College of Life Science, Jilin University, Changchun 130015, China
| | - Ran Liu
- School of Pharmacy and Food Science, Zhuhai College of Science and Technology, Zhuhai 519041, China
- College of Life Science, Jilin University, Changchun 130015, China
| | - Wenzhong Hu
- School of Pharmacy and Food Science, Zhuhai College of Science and Technology, Zhuhai 519041, China
- College of Life Science, Dalian Minzu University, Dalian 116600, China
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7
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Micek A, Bolesławska I, Jagielski P, Konopka K, Waśkiewicz A, Witkowska AM, Przysławski J, Godos J. Association of dietary intake of polyphenols, lignans, and phytosterols with immune-stimulating microbiota and COVID-19 risk in a group of Polish men and women. Front Nutr 2023; 10:1241016. [PMID: 37599696 PMCID: PMC10436747 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2023.1241016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives Devastating consequences of COVID-19 disease enhanced the role of promoting prevention-focused practices. Among targeted efforts, diet is regarded as one of the potential factors which can affect immune function and optimal nutrition is postulated as the method of augmentation of people's viral resistance. As epidemiological evidence is scarce, the present study aimed to explore the association between dietary intake of total polyphenols, lignans and plant sterols and the abundance of immunomodulatory gut microbiota such as Enterococcus spp. and Escherichia coli and the risk of developing COVID-19 disease. Methods Demographic data, dietary habits, physical activity as well as the composition of body and gut microbiota were analyzed in a sample of 95 young healthy individuals. Dietary polyphenol, lignan and plant sterol intakes have been retrieved based on the amount of food consumed by the participants, the phytochemical content was assessed in laboratory analysis and using available databases. Results For all investigated polyphenols and phytosterols, except campesterol, every unit increase in the tertile of intake category was associated with a decrease in the odds of contracting COVID-19. The risk reduction ranged from several dozen percent to 70 %, depending on the individual plant-based chemical, and after controlling for basic covariates it was statistically significant for secoisolariciresinol (OR = 0.28, 95% CI: 0.11-0.61), total phytosterols (OR = 0.47, 95% CI: 0.22-0.95) and for stigmasterols (OR = 0.34, 95% CI: 0.14-0.72). We found an inverse association between increased β-sitosterol intake and phytosterols in total and the occurrence of Escherichia coli in stool samples outside reference values, with 72% (OR = 0.28, 95% CI: 0.08-0.86) and 66% (OR = 0.34, 95% CI: 0.10-1.08) reduced odds of abnormal level of bacteria for the highest compared with the lowest tertile of phytochemical consumption. Additionally, there was a trend of more frequent presence of Enterococcus spp. at relevant level in people with a higher intake of lariciresinol. Conclusion The beneficial effects of polyphenols and phytosterols should be emphasized and these plant-based compounds should be regarded in the context of their utility as antiviral agents preventing influenza-type infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Micek
- Statistical Laboratory, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Cracow, Poland
| | - Izabela Bolesławska
- Department of Bromatology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Paweł Jagielski
- Department of Nutrition and Drug Research, Faculty of Health Sciences, Institute of Public Health, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kraków, Poland
| | - Kamil Konopka
- Department of Oncology, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kraków, Poland
| | - Anna Waśkiewicz
- Department of Epidemiology, Cardiovascular Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, National Institute of Cardiology, Warszawa, Poland
| | - Anna Maria Witkowska
- Department of Food Biotechnology, Medical University of Bialystok, Białystok, Poland
| | - Juliusz Przysławski
- Department of Bromatology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Justyna Godos
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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Chen Y, Gan Y, Yu J, Ye X, Yu W. Key ingredients in Verbena officinalis and determination of their anti-atherosclerotic effect using a computer-aided drug design approach. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2023; 14:1154266. [PMID: 37077636 PMCID: PMC10106644 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2023.1154266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Lipid metabolism disorders may considerably contribute to the formation and development of atherosclerosis (AS). Traditional Chinese medicine has received considerable attention in recent years owing to its ability to treat lipid metabolism disorders using multiple components and targets. Verbena officinalis (VO), a Chinese herbal medicine, exhibits anti-inflammatory, analgesic, immunomodulatory, and neuroprotective effects. Evidence suggests that VO regulates lipid metabolism; however, its role in AS remains unclear. In the present study, an integrated network pharmacology approach, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulation (MDS) were applied to examine the mechanism of VO against AS. Analysis revealed 209 potential targets for the 11 main ingredients in VO. Further, 2698 mechanistic targets for AS were identified, including 147 intersection targets between VO and AS. Quercetin, luteolin, and kaempferol were considered key ingredients for the treatment of AS based on a potential ingredient target-AS target network. GO analysis revealed that biological processes were primarily associated with responses to xenobiotic stimuli, cellular responses to lipids, and responses to hormones. Cell components were predominantly focused on the membrane microdomain, membrane raft, and caveola nucleus. Molecular functions were mainly focused on DNA-binding transcription factor binding, RNA polymerase II-specific DNA-binding transcription factor binding, and transcription factor binding. KEGG pathway enrichment analysis identified pathways in cancer, fluid shear stress, and atherosclerosis, with lipid and atherosclerosis being the most significantly enriched pathways. Molecular docking revealed that three key ingredients in VO (i.e., quercetin, luteolin, and kaempferol) strongly interacted with three potential targets (i.e., AKT1, IL-6, and TNF-α). Further, MDS revealed that quercetin had a stronger binding affinity for AKT1. These findings suggest that VO has beneficial effects on AS via these potential targets that are closely related to the lipid and atherosclerosis pathways. Our study utilized a new computer-aided drug design to identify key ingredients, potential targets, various biological processes, and multiple pathways associated with the clinical roles of VO in AS, which provides a comprehensive and systemic pharmacological explanation for the anti-atherosclerotic activity of VO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuting Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Xianning Medical College, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, Hubei, China
| | - Yuanyuan Gan
- School of Pharmacy, Xianning Medical College, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, Hubei, China
| | - Jingxuan Yu
- Clinical Medical College, Changsha Medical University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xiao Ye
- School of Pharmacy, Xianning Medical College, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, Hubei, China
| | - Wei Yu
- School of Pharmacy, Xianning Medical College, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, Hubei, China
- Hubei Engineering Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine of South Hubei Province, Xianning, Hubei, China
- *Correspondence: Wei Yu,
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