Systems Pharmacology for Investigation of the Mechanisms of Action of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Drug Discovery

Exploring the anti-hepatocellular carcinoma effects of Xianglian Pill: Integrating network pharmacology and RNA sequencing via in silico and in vitro studies

BACKGROUND

Liver cancer represents a most common and fatal cancer worldwide. Xianglian Pill (XLP) is an herbal formula holding great promise in clearing heat for treating diseases in an integrative and holistic way. However, due to the complex constituents and multiple targets, the exact molecular mechanisms of action of XLP are still unclear.

PURPOSE

This study is focused on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common type of liver cancer. The aim of this study is to develop a fast and efficient model to investigate the anti-HCC effects of XLP, and its underlying mechanisms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

HepG2, Hep3B, Mahlavu, HuH-7, or Li-7 cells were employed in the studies. The ingredients were analyzed using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS). RNA sequencing combined with network pharmacology was used to elucidate the therapeutic mechanism of XLP in HCC via in silico and in vitro studies. An approach was constructed to improve the accuracy of prediction in network pharmacology by combining big data and omics.

RESULTS

First, we identified 13 potential ingredients in the serum of XLP-administered rats using LC-MS. Then the network pharmacology was performed to predict that XLP demonstrates anti-HCC effects via targeting 94 genes involving in 13 components. Modifying the database thresholds might impact the accuracy of network pharmacology analysis based on RNA sequencing data. For instance, when the matching rate peak is 0.43, the correctness rate peak is 0.85. Moreover, 9 components of XLP and 6 relevant genes have been verified with CCK-8 and RT-qPCR assay, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Based on the crossing studies of RNA sequencing and network pharmacology, XLP was found to improve HCC through multiple targets and pathways. Additionally, the study provides a way to optimize network pharmacology analysis in herbal medicine research.

Molecular mechanisms of Schisandra chinensis in treating depression-neuropathic pain comorbidity by network pharmacology and molecular docking analysis

This study utilized network pharmacology and docking analyses to explore a groundbreaking therapeutic approach for managing the neuropathic pain and depressive disorder (NP/DD) comorbidity. Schisandra chinensis (SC), a common Chinese medicine, has demonstrated numerous beneficial effects in treating neuropsychological disorders. The main objective of this study was to identify potential bioactive components of SC and investigate their interactions with relevant target genes associated with NP/DD. To gain insights into the underlying molecular mechanisms, GO and KEGG analyses were conducted. Furthermore, molecular docking analysis was employed to validate the therapeutic relevance of SC's active ingredients. Seven bioactive components of SC, namely Longikaurin A, Deoxyharringtonine, Angeloylgomisin O, Schisandrin B, Gomisin A, Gomisin G, and Gomisin R, exhibited effectiveness in the treatment of NP/DD. From this list, the first five components were selected for further analysis. The analyses revealed a complex network of interactions between the targets of SC and NP/DD, providing valuable information about the molecular mechanisms involved in the treatment of NP/DD with SC. SC components demonstrated the ability to regulate pathways involving tumor necrosis factor (TNF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and other growth hormones (GH). Overall, this study contributes to our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the effects of SC in treating NP/DD. Further investigation is necessary to explore the therapeutic potential of SC as a viable strategy for NP/DD comorbidity. These findings lay a solid foundation for future research endeavors in this field, holding potential implications for the development of novel therapeutic interventions targeting NP/DD.

Effectiveness and safety of East Asian herbal medicine for menopausal insomnia: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background: Menopausal insomnia significantly impacts the quality of life in women. East Asian herbal medicines (EAHMs) have been traditionally used in Asian countries, but their efficacy and safety require systematic evaluation. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of EAHM for treating menopausal insomnia. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across 10 electronic databases from inception until 19 July 2023. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating EAHM for menopausal insomnia were included. Two reviewers independently screened studies, extracted data, and assessed the risk of bias using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. The primary outcome was sleep quality, insomnia severity, and sleep architecture. Secondary outcomes included total effective rate (TER), menopausal symptoms, and adverse effects. Meta-analysis was conducted using a random-effects model, and the results were calculated as mean differences (MDs) or risk ratios (RRs) and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Also, the certainty of evidence was assessed using the GRADE approach. Results: A total of 70 RCTs involving 6,035 participants met the inclusion criteria. The most frequently used EAHMs were modified Suan Zao Ren Tang, and the most frequently used herbal component was Zizyphus jujuba Miller var. spinosa Hu ex H. F. Chou [Rhamnaceae; Zizyphi Semen]. Compared with sedative-hypnotics, EAHM significantly improved sleep quality, as measured by the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) (MD -2.18, 95% CI -2.56 to -1.80), and reduced menopausal symptoms, as assessed by the Kupperman Index (MD -4.92, 95% CI -6.03 to -3.80). Similar results were seen when EAHM was added to sedative-hypnotics. When EAHM was additionally used in sedative-hypnotics, similar benefits were shown for PSQI (MD -2.46, 95% CI -3.09 to -1.82) and the Kupperman Index (MD -4.64, 95% CI -5.07 to -4.21). EAHM was generally safer than sedative-hypnotics, with significantly fewer adverse reactions (RR 0.15, 95% CI 0.07-0.34). However, the certainty of evidence was moderate to low. Conclusion: EAHMs, alone or with sedative-hypnotics, may be effective and safe for improving sleep quality and managing menopausal symptoms. Future studies should include diverse populations, rigorous methodologies, and explore mechanisms of action to confirm these findings. Systematic Review Registration: [https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?], identifier [CRD42023446708].

Oleanane triterpenoids with C-14 carboxyl group from Astilbe grandis inhibited LPS-induced macrophages activation by suppressing the NF-κB signaling pathway

Background

Excessive inflammation poses significant risks to human physical and mental health. Astilbe grandis, a traditional Miao medicine, is renowned for its anti-inflammatory properties. However, the specific anti-inflammatory effects and mechanisms of many compounds within this plant remain unclear. This study aims to investigate the anti-inflammatory effects and mechanisms of two characteristic oleanane triterpenoids, 3α-acetoxyolean-12-en-27-oic acid (1) and 3β-acetoxyolean-12-en-27-oic acid (2), isolated from Astilbe grandis, using lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced Macrophages.

Methods

The anti-inflammatory effects and mechanisms of compounds 1 and 2 were investigated by establishing an LPS-induced inflammation model in RAW 264.7 cells and THP-1 cells. Nitric oxide (NO) levels were assessed using the Griess method. The concentrations of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and interleukin-1beta (IL-1β) were measured via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) was determined using western blotting and quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). Additionally, the phosphorylation level of p65 in nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) was assessed through western blotting. The nuclear translocation of NF-κB p65 was assessed through immunofluorescence staining. Finally, the binding affinity of the compounds to NF-κB p65 target was validated through molecular docking.

Results

Compounds 1 and 2 significantly inhibited the expression of NO, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, COX-2, and iNOS in LPS-induced Macrophages. Mechanistically, they attenuated the activation of the NF-κB signaling pathway by downregulating the phosphorylation level and nuclear translocation of p65.

Conclusion

This study elucidates the anti-inflammatory activities and potential mechanism of the characteristic oleanane triterpenoids with C-14 carboxyl group, compounds 1 and 2, in LPS-induced Macrophages by inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway for the first time. These findings suggest that these two compounds hold promise as potential candidates for anti-inflammatory interventions in the future.

Study on the Underlying Mechanism of Yinhua Gout Granules in the Treatment of Gouty Arthritis by Integrating Transcriptomics and Network Pharmacology

Purpose

Yinhua Gout Granules (YGG) is a traditional Chinese medicine preparation with a variety of pharmacological effects, and its clinical efficacy in the treatment of gouty arthritis (GA) has been fully confirmed. However, the pharmacodynamic basis of YGG and its anti-inflammatory mechanism of action in GA are unknown. The objective of this study was to identify the active components and molecular mechanisms of YGG in the treatment of GA.

Methods

Ultra-performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-ESI-MS/MS) and network pharmacology were used to identify and predict the potential active ingredients and related signaling pathways. Then, we revealed the anti-GA effects of YGG based on pharmacodynamic experiments in GA rats. Finally, we integrated transcriptomics and network pharmacology to elucidate the potential mechanism of action and verified the putative mechanism by molecular docking, immunohistochemical (IHC) and Western blot.

Results

We have identified 10 major active components of YGG that may have anti-GA effects, such as ferulic acid, rutin, luteolin, etc. Using molecular docking, we found that 10 major compounds could bind well to TNF, PTGS2, IL-6, IL1β, NOS2 and PTGS1, and the binding energies were all less than -5 kcal/mol. Animal studies have shown that YGG can improve joint inflammation and inflammatory cell infiltration, reduce serum UA, BUN and Cr levels (p<0.01), and decrease IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, COX-2 and PGE2 levels in synovial tissue (p<0.01), which are associated with the pathogenesis of GA. IHC and Western blot results showed that YGG could regulate TLR4/MYD88/NF-κB pathway to inhibit the inflammatory response induced by GA.

Conclusion

This study found that YGG could not only improve the disease of GA by inhibiting the production of UA in the body, but also target the regulation of TLR4/MYD88/NF-κB signaling pathway through a variety of active components to achieve effective therapeutic effects on GA.

Santalum album L. alleviates cardiac function injury in heart failure by synergistically inhibiting inflammation, oxidative stress and apoptosis through multiple components

BACKGROUND

Heart failure (HF) is a complex cardiovascular syndrome with high mortality. Santalum album L. (SAL) is a traditional Chinese medicine broadly applied for various diseases treatment including HF. However, the potential active compounds and molecular mechanisms of SAL in HF treatment are not well understood.

METHODS

The active compounds and possible mechanisms of action of SAL were analyzed and validated by a systems pharmacology framework and an ISO-induced mouse HF model.

RESULTS

We initially confirmed that SAL alleviates heart damage in ISO-induced HF model. A total of 17 potentially active components in SAL were identified, with Luteolin (Lut) and Syringaldehyde (SYD) in SAL been identified as the most effective combination through probabilistic ensemble aggregation (PEA) analysis. These compounds, individually and in their combination (COMB), showed significant therapeutic effects on HF by targeting multiple pathways involved in anti-oxidation, anti-inflammation, and anti-apoptosis. The active ingredients in SAL effectively suppressed inflammatory mediators and pro-apoptotic proteins while enhancing the expression of anti-apoptotic factors and antioxidant markers. Furthermore, the synergistic effects of SAL on YAP and PI3K-AKT signaling pathways were further elucidated.

CONCLUSIONS

Mechanistically, the anti-HF effect of SAL is responsible for the synergistic effect of anti-inflammation, antioxidation and anti-apoptosis, delineating a multi-targeted therapeutic strategy for HF.

Current advances in the pain treatment and mechanisms of Traditional Chinese Medicine

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), as a unique medical model in China, has been shown to be effective in the treatment of many diseases. It has been proven that TCM can increase the pain threshold, increase the level of endorphins and enkephalins in the body, and reduce the body's response to adverse stimuli. In recent years, TCM scholars have made valuable explorations in the field of pain treatment, using methods such as internal and external application of TCM and acupuncture to carry out research on pain treatment and have achieved more satisfactory results. TCM treats pain in a variety of ways, and with the discovery of a variety of potential bioactive substances for pain treatment. With the new progress in the research of other TCM treatment methods for pain, TCM will have greater potential in the clinical application of pain.

Lab-on-a-chip: an advanced technology for the modernization of traditional Chinese medicine

Benefiting from the complex system composed of various constituents, medicament portions, species, and places of origin, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) possesses numerous customizable and adaptable efficacies in clinical practice guided by its theories. However, these unique features are also present challenges in areas such as quality control, screening active ingredients, studying cell and organ pharmacology, and characterizing the compatibility between different Chinese medicines. Drawing inspiration from the holistic concept, an integrated strategy and pattern more aligned with TCM research emerges, necessitating the integration of novel technology into TCM modernization. The microfluidic chip serves as a powerful platform for integrating technologies in chemistry, biology, and biophysics. Microfluidics has given rise to innovative patterns like lab-on-a-chip and organoids-on-a-chip, effectively challenging the conventional research paradigms of TCM. This review provides a systematic summary of the nature and advanced utilization of microfluidic chips in TCM, focusing on quality control, active ingredient screening/separation, pharmaceutical analysis, and pharmacological/toxicological assays. Drawing on these remarkable references, the challenges, opportunities, and future trends of microfluidic chips in TCM are also comprehensively discussed, providing valuable insights into the development of TCM.

Bajitianwan formula extract ameliorates bone loss induced by iron overload via activating RAGE/PI3K/AKT pathway based on network pharmacology and transcriptomic analysis

Osteoporosis (OP) is closely related to iron overload. Bajitianwan (BJTW) is a traditional Chinese medicine formulation used for treating senile diseases such as dementia and osteoporosis. Modern pharmacological researches have found that BJTW has beneficial effect on bone loss and memory impairment in aging rats. This paper aimed to explore the role and mechanism of BJTW in ameliorating iron overload-induced bone loss. Furthermore, BJTW effectively improved the bone micro-structure of the femur in mice, and altered bone metabolism biomarkers alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and osteocalcin (OCN) in serum, as well as oxidative indexes superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione reductase (GR) glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) in liver. As for network pharmacology, 73 components collected from BJTW regulated 99 common targets merged in the BJTW and OP. The results of RNA-seq indicated that there were 418 potential targets in BJTW low dose group (BJTW-L) and 347 potential targets in BJTW high dose group (BJTW-H). Intriguingly, both PI3K-AKT signaling pathway and the AGEs-RAGE signaling pathway were contained in the KEGG pathways enrichment results of network pharmacology and transcriptomics, which were considered as the potential mechanism. Additionally, we verified that BJTW regulated the expression of related proteins in RAGE/PI3K-AKT pathways in MC3T3-E1 cells. In summary, BJTW has potent effect on protecting against iron overload-induced OP, and its mechanism may be related to the activation of the RAGE/PI3K-AKT signaling pathways.

Integrating transcriptomics and network pharmacology to reveal the mechanisms of total Rhizoma Coptidis alkaloids against nonalcoholic steatohepatitis

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) has emerged as a major cause of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, posing a significant threat to public health. Rhizoma Coptidis, a traditional Chinese medicinal herb has been shown to have significant curative effects on liver diseases. Total Rhizoma Coptidis Alkaloids (TRCA) is a primarily alkaloid mixture extracted from Rhizoma Coptidis, and its constituents are widely accepted to have hepatoprotective effects.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This work aimed to investigate the efficacy and potential mechanisms of TRCA in ameliorating NASH through both in vitro experiments and in vivo mouse models.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study employed a mice model induced by a high-fat diet (HFD) to evaluate the effectiveness and pharmacological mechanisms of TRCA in alleviating NASH. Transcriptomic sequencing and network pharmacology were used to explore the possible targets and mechanisms of TRCA to ameliorate NASH. Further validation was performed in free fatty acid (FFA)-induced human hepatocytes (LO2) and human hepatocellular carcinoma cells (HepG2).

RESULTS

TRCA effectively ameliorated the main features of NASH such as lipid accumulation, hepatitis and hepatic fibrosis in the liver tissue of mice induced by HFD, as well as improved glucose tolerance and insulin resistance in mice. Combined with transcriptomic and network pharmacological analyses, 68 core targets associated with the improvement of NASH by TRCA were obtained. According to the KEGG results, the core targets were significantly enriched in the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway whereas TRCA ameliorated the aberrant down-regulation of the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway induced by HFD. Furthermore, the five highest-ranked genes were obtained by PPI network analysis. Moreover, our findings suggest that TRCA may impede the progression of HFD-induced NASH by regulating the expression of PPARG, MMP9, ALB, CCL2, and EGFR.

CONCLUSIONS

TRCA can ameliorate HFD-induced liver injury by modulating aberrant downregulation of the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway. Key proteins such as PPARG, MMP9, ALB, CCL2, and EGFR may be critical targets for TRCA to ameliorate NASH. This finding supports using Rhizoma Coptidis, a well-known herbal medicine, as a potential therapeutic agent for NASH.

Establishing an integrated, four-dimensional quality assessment system for traditional Chinese medicine: A case study of Shuanghuanglian oral liquid

The quality of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is the premise to ensure its safety and effectiveness in clinical application. In this study, a complete quality control system for four-dimensional fingerprinting of TCM was innovatively constructed based on multiple detection techniques, and the quality of Shuanghuanglian oral liquid (SHL) was evaluated. Electrochemical fingerprinting (ECFP) as an emerging method without pretreatment provides rich and quantifiable information for SHL samples. The first quantitative ECFP of SHL was developed by the B-Z oscillation system. Eight characteristic parameters were analyzed and a good linear relationship was found between the oscillation lifetime and sample volume, by which the calculated values of the added sample volume (VL) showed different fluctuations between samples. What is more, high-performance liquid chromatography five-wavelength fusion fingerprint (HPLC-FWFP), GC fingerprint (GC-FP), and UV quantum fingerprint (UV-QFP) was established. Meanwhile, the purity of the peaks of the HPLC-FWFP was verified by the dual-wavelength absorption coefficient ratio spectrum (DWAR). Equal weighted ratio quantitative fingerprinting method (EWRQFM) was successfully proposed to extract all potential features for the overall quality assessment of the samples. Finally, a comprehensive evaluation strategy was proposed, namely the variation coefficient weighting algorithm (VCWA). The results of qualitative and quantitative evaluation of HPLC-FWFP, GC-FP, electrochemical quantum fingerprints (EC-QFP), and UV-QFP were integrated by this method. The established evaluation system is also a suitable strategy to control the quality of other TCM preparations.

Plasma Concentrations of Rosmarinic Acid in Patients on Antiretroviral Therapy: In Silico Exploration Based on Clinical Data

Rosmarinic acid (RA) is a phenolic compound with antiviral properties, often encountered in dietary supplements and herbal drugs. Data on the pharmacokinetics of RA are lacking in cases of the chronic use of supplements containing this compound, and only limited data on the metabolism and distribution of RA are available. The aim of the study was to investigate the plasma levels of RA after 12 weeks of use and determine potential interactions of RA and selected antiretroviral drugs. Patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus took a supplement containing RA for 12 weeks, after which the RA concentrations in the plasma samples were analyzed. A detailed in silico analysis was conducted in order to elucidate the potential interactions between RA and the drugs efavirenz, darunavir and raltegravir. It was found that RA can be detected in patients' plasma samples, mainly in the form of sulphoglucuronide. The potential interactions are suggested on the level of liver metabolizing enzymes and efflux P-glycoprotein, with RA competing with antiretroviral drugs as a substrate in metabolism and distribution systems. The present study suggests that the simultaneous use of RA and antiretroviral therapy (containing efavirenz, darunavir or raltegravir) may affect the plasma levels of RA after prolonged supplementation.

Idealization in pharmacology and pharmacy: Symbol of the chemical formula of one molecule of a substance and a real pharmaceutical product

The essence of the two levels of information used in modern pharmacy, pharmacology, and medicine for operations related to theoretical reasoning about medicines and the actual practice of their use for treating specific cases is fundamentally different. In particular, studies have analyzed the essence of theoretical information about medicines and the norms of their use in accordance with medical care standards. Information about medicines and standards of medical care, which dominate textbooks, reference books, encyclopedias, scientific articles , and normative and technical documents, is built on the idealized essence of chemically pure substances and their interaction with an idealized virtual patient. Accordingly, in the fields of pharmacy, pharmacology, and chemistry, physics, and materials science, researchers have traditionally represented chemical elements (and drugs) by certain chemical formulas, names, and symbols for their molecules. Moreover, in pharmacy and pharmacology, the structural formula of one molecule of only one chemical substance belonging to the group of the so-called main active substances most often plays this role. Generally, this chemical symbol of its molecule is identified with the real substance itself. It is assumed that the substance in question is of ideal high quality, is completely free of any impurities, is not combined with other substances, and does not represent a certain pharmaceutical product (it is not a tablet, not a solution, not an ointment, not an aerosol, etc.), and is not manufactured by a certain pharmaceutical company according to a certain recipe. Moreover, modern pharmaceutical products are not separate molecules, not pure chemical reagents, but all sorts of mixtures of different substances of different quality in different ratios. In addition, each pharmaceutical product of each manufacturing plant and each series number has inherent and unique mechanical, physical, chemical, and physicochemical properties and quality indicators. Therefore, the idealized essence of drugs is far from that of real pharmaceutical products. The chemical name and chemical formula are symbols of one molecule of a chemical element, reflecting its idealized chemical essence, but not the essence of a real “tablet”, “ampule”, and/or “tube” with it. In turn, the virtual patient of known sex, average age, average health status, and a body weight of approximately 70 kg implied by the standards of medical care is just an idealized object of interaction with an idealized “medicine”. In this regard, the study of the relationship between the idealized and real drugs and patients is a crucial part of the problem of the relationship between theory and reality in pharmacy, pharmacology, and medicine.

Exploring the effect and mechanism of Aloin A against cancer cachexia-induced muscle atrophy via network pharmacology, molecular docking, molecular dynamics and experimental validation

80% of advanced cancer patients suffer from cachexia, but there are no FDA-approved drugs. Therefore, it is imperative to discover potential drugs.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims at exploring the effect and targets of Aloin A against cancer cachexia (CC)-induced muscle atrophy.

METHODS

Network pharmacology, molecular docking, molecular dynamics (MD) and animal model of CC-induced muscle atrophy with a series of behavior tests, muscle quality, HE staining and RT-PCR were performed to investigate the anticachectic effects and targets of Aloin A and its molecular mechanism.

RESULTS

Based on network pharmacology, 51 potential targets of Aloin A on CC-induced muscle atrophy were found, and then 10 hub genes were predicted by the PPI network. Next, KEGG and GO enrichment analysis showed that the anticachectic effect of Aloin A is associated with PI3K-AKT, MAPK, TNF, TLR, etc., pathways, and biological processes like inflammation, apoptosis and cell proliferation. Molecular docking and MD results showed good binding ability between the Aloin A and key targets. Moreover, experiments in vivo demonstrated that Aloin A effectively rescued muscle function and wasting by improving muscle quality, mean CSA, and distribution of muscle fibers by regulating HSP90AA1/AKT signaling in tumor-bearing mice.

CONCLUSION

This study offers new insights for researchers to understand the effect and mechanism of Aloin A against CC using network pharmacology, molecular docking, MD and experimental validation, and Aloin A retards CC-induced muscle wasting through multiple targets and pathways, including HSP90AA1/AKT signaling, which provides evidence for Aloin A as a potential therapy for cancer cachexia in clinic.

Multi-level advances in databases related to systems pharmacology in traditional Chinese medicine: a 60-year review

The therapeutic effects of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) involve intricate interactions among multiple components and targets. Currently, computational approaches play a pivotal role in simulating various pharmacological processes of TCM. The application of network analysis in TCM research has provided an effective means to explain the pharmacological mechanisms underlying the actions of herbs or formulas through the lens of biological network analysis. Along with the advances of network analysis, computational science has coalesced around the core chain of TCM research: formula-herb-component-target-phenotype-ZHENG, facilitating the accumulation and organization of the extensive TCM-related data and the establishment of relevant databases. Nonetheless, recent years have witnessed a tendency toward homogeneity in the development and application of these databases. Advancements in computational technologies, including deep learning and foundation model, have propelled the exploration and modeling of intricate systems into a new phase, potentially heralding a new era. This review aims to delves into the progress made in databases related to six key entities: formula, herb, component, target, phenotype, and ZHENG. Systematically discussions on the commonalities and disparities among various database types were presented. In addition, the review raised the issue of research bottleneck in TCM computational pharmacology and envisions the forthcoming directions of computational research within the realm of TCM.

Convergent application of traditional Chinese medicine and gut microbiota in ameliorate of cirrhosis: a data mining and Mendelian randomization study

Objective

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been used for the treatment of chronic liver diseases for a long time, with proven safety and efficacy in clinical settings. Previous studies suggest that the therapeutic mechanism of TCM for hepatitis B cirrhosis may involve the gut microbiota. Nevertheless, the causal relationship between the gut microbiota, which is closely linked to TCM, and cirrhosis remains unknown. This study aims to utilize two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) to investigate the potential causal relationship between gut microbes and cirrhosis, as well as to elucidate the synergistic mechanisms between botanical drugs and microbiota in treating cirrhosis.

Methods

Eight databases were systematically searched through May 2022 to identify clinical studies on TCM for hepatitis B cirrhosis. We analyzed the frequency, properties, flavors, and meridians of Chinese medicinals based on TCM theories and utilized the Apriori algorithm to identify the core botanical drugs for cirrhosis treatment. Cross-database comparison elucidated gut microbes sharing therapeutic targets with these core botanical drugs. MR analysis assessed consistency between gut microbiota causally implicated in cirrhosis and microbiota sharing therapeutic targets with key botanicals.

Results

Our findings revealed differences between the Chinese medicinals used for compensated and decompensated cirrhosis, with distinct frequency, dosage, properties, flavors, and meridian based on TCM theory. Angelicae Sinensis Radix, Salviae Miltiorrhizae Radix Et Rhizoma, Poria, Paeoniae Radix Alba, Astragali Radix, Atrctylodis Macrocephalae Rhizoma were the main botanicals. Botanical drugs and gut microbiota target MAPK1, VEGFA, STAT3, AKT1, RELA, JUN, and ESR1 in the treatment of hepatitis B cirrhosis, and their combined use has shown promise for cirrhosis treatment. MR analysis demonstrated a positive correlation between increased ClostridialesvadinBB60 and Ruminococcustorques abundance and heightened cirrhosis risk. In contrast, Eubacteriumruminantium, Lachnospiraceae, Eubacteriumnodatum, RuminococcaceaeNK4A214, Veillonella, and RuminococcaceaeUCG002 associated with reduced cirrhosis risk. Notably, Lachnospiraceae shares key therapeutic targets with core botanicals, which can treat cirrhosis at a causal level.

Conclusion

We identified 6 core botanical drugs for managing compensated and decompensated hepatitis B cirrhosis, despite slight prescription differences. The core botanical drugs affected cirrhosis through multiple targets and pathways. The shared biological effects between botanicals and protective gut microbiota offer a potential explanation for the therapeutic benefits of these key herbal components in treating cirrhosis. Elucidating these mechanisms provides crucial insights to inform new drug development and optimize clinical therapy for hepatitis B cirrhosis.

Anti-inflammation is an important way that Qingre-Huazhuo-Jiangsuan recipe treats acute gouty arthritis

Background: Acute gouty arthritis (AGA) significantly impairs patients' quality of life. Currently, existing therapeutic agents exhibit definite efficacy but also lead to serious adverse reactions. Therefore, it is essential to develop highly efficient therapeutic agents with minimal adverse reactions, especially within traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Additionally, food polyphenols have shown potential in treating various inflammatory diseases. The Qingre-Huazhuo-Jiangsuan-Recipe (QHJR), a modification of Si-Miao-San (SMS), has emerged as a TCM remedy for AGA with no reported side effects. Recent research has also highlighted a strong genetic link to gout. Methods: The TCM System Pharmacology (TCMSP) database was used to collect the main chemical components of QHJR and AGA-related targets for predicting the metabolites in QHJR. HPLC-Q-Orbitrap-MS was employed to identify the ingredients of QHJR. The collected metabolites were then used to construct a Drugs-Targets Network in Cytoscape software, ranked based on their "Degree" of significance. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were screened in the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database using GEO2R online analysis. Subsequently, Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses were performed. The DEGs were utilized to construct a Protein-Protein Interaction (PPI) Network via the STRING database. In vivo experimental validation was conducted using colchicine, QHJR, rapamycin (RAPA), and 3-methyladenine (3-MA) as controls to observe QHJR's efficacy in AGA. Synovial tissues from rats were collected, and qRT-PCR and Western blot assays were employed to investigate Ampk-related factors (Ampk, mTOR, ULK1), autophagy-related factors (Atg5, Atg7, LC3, p62), and inflammatory-related factors (NLRP3). ELISA assays were performed to measure inflammatory-related factor levels (IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α), and H&E staining was used to examine tissue histology. Results: Network analysis screened out a total of 94 metabolites in QHJR for AGA. HPLC-Q-Orbitrap-MS analysis identified 27 of these metabolites. Notably, five metabolites (Neochlorogenic acid, Caffeic acid, Berberine, Isoliquiritigenin, Formononetin) were not associated with any individual herbal component of QHJR in TCMSP database, while six metabolites (quercetin, luteolin, formononetin, naringenin, taxifolin, diosgenin) overlapped with the predicted results from the previous network analysis. Further network analysis highlighted key components, such as Caffeic acid, cis-resveratrol, Apigenin, and Isoliquiritigenin. Other studies have found that their treatment of AGA is achieved through reducing inflammation, consistent with this study, laying the foundation for the mechanism study of QHJR against AGA. PPI analysis identified TNF, IL-6, and IL-1β as hub genes. GO and KEGG analyses indicated that anti-inflammation was a key mechanism in AGA treatment. All methods demonstrated that inflammatory expression increased in the Model group but was reversed by QHJR. Additionally, autophagy-related expression increased following QHJR treatment. The study suggested that AMPKα and p-AMPKα1 proteins were insensitive to 3 MA and RAPA, implying that AMPK may not activate autophagy directly but through ULK1 and mTOR. Conclusion: In conclusion, this study confirms the effectiveness of QHJR, a modified formulation of SMS (a classic traditional Chinese medicine prescription for treating gout), against AGA. QHJR, as a TCM formula, offers advantages such as minimal safety concerns and potential long-term use. The study suggests that the mechanism by which QHJR treats AGA may involve the activation of the AMPK/mTOR/ULK1 pathway, thereby regulating autophagy levels, reducing inflammation, and alleviating AGA. These findings provide new therapeutic approaches and ideas for the clinical treatment of AGA.

Analysis of quality differences between Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi and Scutellaria rehderiana Diels based on phytochemistry and bioactivity evaluation

Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi (SG) and Scutellaria rehderiana Diels (SD) belong to the same genus of Scutellaria in the Labiatae (Lamiaceae) family. SG is confirmed as the medicinal source according to the Chinese Pharmacopeia, but SD is often used as a substitute for SG due to its abundant plant resources. However, the current quality standards are far from sufficient to judge the quality differences between SG and SD. In this study, an integrated strategy of "biosynthetic pathway (specificity) - plant metabolomics (difference) - bioactivity evaluation (effectiveness)" was established to evaluate this quality differences. First, an ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q/TOF-MS/MS) method was developed for the identification of chemical components. The abundant components information was obtained and the characteristic constituents were screened according to the location in the biosynthetic pathway as well as species specificity. Then, plant metabolomics combined with multivariate statistical analysis to find differential components between SG and SD. The chemical markers for quality analysis were determined based on the differential and characteristic components, and the content of each marker was tentatively evaluated through the semi-quantitative analysis of UHPLC-Q/TOF-MS/MS. Finally, the anti-inflammatory activity of SG and SD was compared by measuring the inhibitory effect on the release of NO from lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. Under this analytical strategy, a total of 113 compounds were tentatively identified in both SG and SD, among which baicalein, wogonin, chrysin, oroxylin A 7-O-β-D-glucuronoside, pinocembrin and baicalin were selected as chemical markers due to their species characteristics and differentiation. The contents of oroxylin A 7-O-β-D-glucuronoside and baicalin was higher in SG, and the others were higher in SD. In addition, both SG and SD exhibited prominent anti-inflammatory activity, but SD was less effective. The analysis strategy combining phytochemistry and bioactivity evaluation realized the scientific evaluation of the intrinsic quality differences between SG and SD, which provides a reference for fully utilizing and expanding the medicinal resources, and also provides a reference for the comprehensive quality control of herbal medicines.

A network pharmacology and molecular docking investigation on the mechanisms of Shanyaotianhua decoction (STT) as a therapy for psoriasis

Psoriasis is an immune-mediated inflammatory skin disease with a complex etiology involving environmental and genetic factors. Psoriasis patients often require long-term treatment. Shanyaotianua decoction (STT), a typical traditional Chinese medicine prescription, positively affects psoriasis, although its molecular targets remain unknown. To elucidate its molecular mechanisms, a combination of network pharmacology, bioinformatics analysis, and drug similarity comparisons were employed. Participants were separated into 3 groups: non-lesional (NL), lesions after medication (LM), and psoriasis lesion groups (LS). Based on the Gene Ontology/kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes enrichment analyses, the key targets were mainly enriched for biological processes (immuno-inflammatory responses, leukocyte differentiation, lipid metabolic disorders, and viral infection) with the relevant pathways (Janus kinase/signal transducers and activators of transcription and adipocytokine signaling and T-helper 17 cell differentiation), thus identifying the possible action mechanism of STT against psoriasis. Target prediction for 18 STT compounds that matched the screening criteria was performed. Then, the STT compounds were intersected with the differentially expressed genes of the psoriatic process, and 5 proteins were potential targets for STT. Based on the open-source toolkit RDKit and DrugBank database, and through molecular docking and drug similarity comparisons, spinasterol, diosgenin, and 24-Methylcholest-5-enyl-3belta-O-glucopyranoside_qt may be potential drugs for psoriasis.

Significance of traditional herbal medicine for dyslipidemia

Dyslipidemia is a multifactorial disorder that is a causative factor and risk factor for cardiovascular disease. The incidence of dyslipidemia is expected to increase because of the presence of comorbidities. Although several lipid-lowering drugs have been developed and approved, they are not completely effective and are associated with side effects. Traditional herbal medicine (THM) represents an alternative and complementary approach for managing dyslipidemia because of its low toxicity and beneficial effects, such as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. This review focuses on our current understanding of the antidyslipidemic effect of THMs and discusses the associated regulatory mechanisms. The current findings indicate that THM may lead to the development of novel therapeutic regimens for dyslipidemia.

L, Bao T, Mu X, Ta N, Duan Q, Ta L, Chen Y, Bai L, Fu M. An integrated network analysis, RNA-seq and in vivo validation approaches to explore the protective mechanism of Mongolian medicine formulae Ruda-6 against indomethacin-induced gastric ulcer in rats

Gastric ulcer (GU) is one of the most prevalent digestive diseases that seriously affects people's health. Previous studies have demonstrated the anti-GU effect of Ruda-6 (RD-6), a classic formulae of traditional Mongolian medicine. However, the underlying mechanism of RD-6 against GU remains elusive. Thus, we conducted an integrative approach of network analysis, RNA-seq, and in vivo validation experiment to elucidate the therapeutic mechanisms of RD-6 in preventing GU. A network analysis was performed to predict the potential targets of RD-6. Rats were pretreated with RD-6 at different doses for 21 days, followed by GU induction with indomethacin injection. The ulcer index and inhibition rates were calculated, and the levels of inflammatory related factors were determined by ELISA. The gastroprotective mechanism of RD-6 against ulceration was verified by RNA-seq and the key pathway was detected by in vivo validation. As the network analysis predicted, RD-6 exerts anti-GU effects by regulating 75 targets and 160 signaling pathways. Animal experiment results suggested that pretreatment with RD-6 significantly ameliorated the gastric mucosal injury and inflammatory response, as evidenced by a reduced ulcer index, decreased interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and IL-17 levels, and increased prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) levels in the GU model rats induced by indomethacin. RNA-seq data identified four potential hub genes that were primarily involved in the IL-17 signaling pathway. Furthermore, in vivo validation experiment showed that RD-6 inhibited the IL-17 signaling pathway by down-regulating the expression of IL17RA, proto-oncogene C-Fos (FOS), IL1B and prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2 (PTGS2). Taken together, the present study provides evidence that RD-6 could effectively protect against indomethacin-induced GU, which might be attributed to suppressed inflammation. The IL-17 signaling pathway may be one of the crucial mechanisms that mediates the effect of RD-6.

Natural-Product-Derived Adjunctive Treatments to Conventional Therapy and Their Immunoregulatory Activities in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an invasive and persistent subtype of breast cancer that is likely to be resistant to conventional treatments. The rise in immunotherapy has created new modalities to treat cancer, but due to high costs and unreliable efficacy, adjunctive and complementary treatments have sparked interest in enhancing the efficacy of currently available treatments. Natural products, which are bioactive compounds derived from natural sources, have historically been used to treat or ameliorate inflammatory diseases and symptoms. As TNBC patients have shown little to no response to immunotherapy, the potential of natural products as candidates for adjuvant immunotherapy is being explored, as well as their immunomodulatory effects on cancer. Due to the complexity of TNBC and the ever-changing tumor microenvironment, there are challenges in determining the feasibility of using natural products to enhance the efficacy or counteract the toxicity of conventional treatments. In view of technological advances in molecular docking, pharmaceutical networking, and new drug delivery systems, natural products show promise as potential candidates in adjunctive therapy. In this article, we summarize the mechanisms of action of selected natural-product-based bioactive compounds and analyze their roles and applications in combination treatments and immune regulation.

Triterpenoid and Coumarin Isolated from Astilbe grandis with Anti-Inflammatory Effects through Inhibiting the NF-κB Pathway in LPS-Induced RAW264.7 Cells

The roots of Astilbe grandis, known as "Ma sang gou bang", are used as a Miao traditional medicine with anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. However, the active components and mechanism of action of this plant remain mostly uncharacterized. The aim of this study was to identify its active components and verify their pharmacological activity. The extract of A. grandis root was separated using various chromatographic methods. As a result, we obtained one novel triterpenoid, named astigranlactone (1), which has an unusual lactone moiety formed between C-7 and C-27. Additionally, a known coumarin compound, 11-O-galloyl bergenin (2) was isolated from this plant. The structures of these two compounds were elucidated by extensive NMR experiments in conjunction with HR-ESI-MS data. To the best of our knowledge, both compounds were isolated from this species for the first time. Moreover, we tested the anti-inflammation effect of the two compounds by establishing a cellular inflammation model induced by LPS in RAW264.7 cells. The effect of different concentrations of these compounds on the activity of RAW264.7 cells was assessed using a CCK8 assay. The levels of nitric oxide (NO), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) in the supernatant of each group were evaluated using the Griess method and an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Western blot and quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-RCR) were used to measure the levels of cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) and nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) gene expression. Our findings revealed that these two compounds inhibited the high levels of NO, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, COX-2, and iNOS (induced by LPS). Mechanistic studies demonstrated that these two compounds reduced the activation of the nuclear transcription factor-B (NF-κB) signaling pathway by inhibiting the phosphorylation of p65. Therefore, our study indicates that compounds 1 and 2 can exert a definite anti-inflammatory effect by inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway.

Integration of transcriptomics and proteomics to elucidate inhibitory effect and mechanism of rosmarinic acid from Perilla frutescens (L.) Britt. in treating Trichophyton mentagrophytes

BACKGROUND

Dermatophyte caused by Trichophyton mentagrophytes is a global disease with a growing prevalence that is difficult to cure. Perilla frutescens (L.) Britt. is an edible and medicinal plant. Ancient books of Traditional Chinese Medicine and modern pharmacological studies have shown that it has potential anti-fungi activity. This is the first study to explore the inhibitory effects of compounds from P. frutescens on Trichophyton mentagrophytes and its mechanism of action coupled with the antifungal activity in vitro from network pharmacology, transcriptomics and proteomics.

METHODS

Five most potential inhibitory compounds against fungi in P. frutescens was screened with network pharmacology. The antifungal activity of the candidates was detected by a broth microdilution method. Through in vitro antifungal assays screening the compound with efficacy, transcriptomics and proteomics were performed to investigate the pharmacological mechanisms of the effective compound against Trichophyton mentagrophytes. Furthermore, the real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was applied to verify the expression of genes.

RESULTS

The top five potential antifungal compounds in P. frutescens screened by network pharmacology are: progesterone, luteolin, apigenin, ursolic acid and rosmarinic acid. In vitro antifungal assays showed that rosmarinic acid had a favorable inhibitory effect on fungi. The transcriptomic findings exhibited that the differentially expressed genes of fungus after rosmarinic acid intervention were mainly enriched in the carbon metabolism pathway, while the proteomic findings suggested that rosmarinic acid could inhibit the average growth of Trichophyton mentagrophytes by interfering with the expression of enolase in the glycolysis pathway. Comparison of real-time PCR and transcriptomics results showed that the trends of gene expression in glycolytic, carbon metabolism and glutathione metabolic pathways were identical. The binding modes and interactions between rosmarinic acid and enolase were preliminary explored by molecular docking analysis.

CONCLUSION

The key findings of the present study manifested that rosmarinic acid, a medicinal compound extracted from P. frutescens, had pharmacological activity in inhibiting the growth of Trichophyton mentagrophytes by affecting its enolase expression to reduce metabolism. Rosmarinic acid is expected to be an efficacious product for prevention and treatment of dermatophytes.

Limonin, a natural ERK2 agonist, protects against ischemic acute kidney injury

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a refractory clinical syndrome with limited effective treatments. Amid AKI, activation of the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) cascade plays a critical role in promoting kidney repair and regeneration. However, a mature ERK agonist in treating kidney disease remains lacking. This study identified limonin, a member of the class of compounds known as furanolactones, as a natural ERK2 activator. Employing a multidisciplinary approach, we systemically dissected how limonin mitigates AKI. Compared to vehicles, pretreatment of limonin significantly preserved kidney functions after ischemic AKI. We revealed that ERK2 is a significant protein linked to the limonin's active binding sites through structural analysis. The molecular docking study showed a high binding affinity between limonin and ERK2, which was confirmed by the cellular thermal shift assay and microscale thermophoresis. Mechanistically, we further validated that limonin promoted tubular cell proliferation and reduced cell apoptosis after AKI by activating ERK signaling pathway in vivo. In vitro and ex vivo, blockade of ERK abolished limonin's capacity of preventing tubular cell death under hypoxia stress. Our results indicated that limonin is a novel ERK2 activator with strong translational potential in preventing or mitigating AKI.

Phytochemistry, Pharmacology and Mode of Action of the Anti-Bacterial Artemisia Plants

Over 70,000 people die of bacterial infections worldwide annually. Antibiotics have been liberally used to treat these diseases and, consequently, antibiotic resistance and drug ineffectiveness has been generated. In this environment, new anti-bacterial compounds are being urgently sought. Around 500 Artemisia species have been identified worldwide. Most species of this genus are aromatic and have multiple functions. Research into the Artemisia plants has expanded rapidly in recent years. Herein, we aim to update and summarize recent information about the phytochemistry, pharmacology and toxicology of the Artemisia plants. A literature search of articles published between 2003 to 2022 in PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science databases, and KNApSAcK metabolomics databases revealed that 20 Artemisia species and 75 compounds have been documented to possess anti-bacterial functions and multiple modes of action. We focus and discuss the progress in understanding the chemistry (structure and plant species source), anti-bacterial activities, and possible mechanisms of these phytochemicals. Mechanistic studies show that terpenoids, flavonoids, coumarins and others (miscellaneous group) were able to destroy cell walls and membranes in bacteria and interfere with DNA, proteins, enzymes and so on in bacteria. An overview of new anti-bacterial strategies using plant compounds and extracts is also provided.

Efficacy analysis and research progress of complementary and alternative medicines in the adjuvant treatment of COVID-19

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has impacted human lifestyles around the world, causing huge distress in terms of public health systems, emergency response capacity and economic development. The causative agent of COVID-19, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), is associated with respiratory involvement, cardiovascular-related diseases, and ultimately causes multiple organ failure and death in severely affected individuals. Thus, effective prevention or early treatment of COVID-19 is critical. An effective vaccine offers a way out of the pandemic for governments, the scientific community and people worldwide, but we still lack effective drug therapies, including treatments for the prevention and treatment of COVID-19. This had led to a high global demand for many complementary and alternative medicines (CAMs). Moreover, many healthcare providers are now requesting information about CAMs that prevent, relieve, or treat the symptoms of COVID-19 and even alleviate vaccine-related side effects. Experts and scholars must therefore become familiar with the use of CAMs in COVID-19, current research directions and effectiveness of CAMs for COVID-19. This narrative review updates the current status and research worldwide on the use of CAMs for COVID-19. The review provides reliable evidence on theoretical viewpoints and therapeutic efficacies of CAM combinations, and evidence in support of the therapeutic strategy of Taiwan Chingguan Erhau (NRICM102) against moderate-to-severe novel coronavirus infectious disease in Taiwan.

Yupingfeng San exhibits anticancer effect in hepatocellular carcinoma cells via the MAPK pathway revealed by HTS2 technology

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Yupingfeng San (YPFS) is a classic rousing prescription in Chinese medicine, with widly clinical application and remarkably curative effect. It consists of three herbs named Astragalus mongholicus Bunge (Huangqi), Atractylodes rubra Dekker (Baizhu) and Saposhnikovia divaricata (Turcz.) Schischk. (Fangfeng), and has a variety of pharmacological activities including immune regulation, antioxidant, anti-tumor, regulation of cytokines, etc. AIM OF THE STUDY: It has been proved that YPFS exerts its anti-tumor effect through enhancing the systemic and local immune responses in tumor patients, moreover, it has the direct tumor-suppressing effect and can reduce the adverse reactions caused by radiotherapy and chemotherapy drugs. Therefore, in this study, we explored the potential anti-HCC mechanism of YPFS based on HTS² technology and systems pharmacology, aiming to provide a scientific basis for the clinical application of YPFS and a new strategy for Chinese medicine research.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this study, systems pharmacology plus high throughput sequencing-based high throughput screening (HTS²) technology, and experimental validation were used to investigate the therapeutic mechanisms and the chemical basis of YPFS in HCC treatment. Firstly, the potential therapeutic targets and signaling pathways of YPFS in the treatment of HCC were obtained through systems pharmacology. Subsequently, HTS² technology combined with PPI network analysis were used to reveal potential therapeutic targets. Finally, the anti-HCC effects and underlying mechanisms of YPFS were further verified in vitro in human hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines. Moreover, the possible chemical basis was explored by drug target verification and molecular docking technology.

RESULTS

In total, 183 active ingredients were predicted by YPFS screening and 49 anti-HCC targets were further identified. Most of these targets were enriched into the "MAPK pathway", and the expression of 37 genes was significantly changed after herb treatment. Among them, 5 key targets, including VEGFA, GRB2, JUN, PDGFRB and CDC42, were predicted by protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis. According to our results, YPFS inhibited the proliferation, induced the apoptosis and caused cell cycle arrest of HCC cells. In addition, YPFS significantly reduced P38 gene expression. Fangfeng, one of the three herbs in YPFS, significantly down-regulated the expression of more target genes than that of the other two herbs. Lastly, as revealed by molecular docking analysis, 4'-O-glucosyl-5-O-methylvisamminol, an active ingredient identified in Fangfeng, showed a high affinity for P38.

CONCLUSION

Taken together, this study shows that YPFS possesses the activities of anti-proliferation and pro-apoptosis in treating HCC, which are achieved by inhibiting the MAPK signaling pathway. P38 is one of the critical targets of YPFS in treating HCC, which may be directly bound and inhibited by 4'-O-glucosyl-5-O-methylvisamminol, a compound derived from YPFS.

Network analyses reveal new insights into the effect of multicomponent Tr14 compared to single-component diclofenac in an acute inflammation model

BACKGROUND

Modifying the acute inflammatory response has wide clinical benefits. Current options include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and therapies that may resolve inflammation. Acute inflammation involves multiple cell types and various processes. We, therefore, investigated whether an immunomodulatory drug that acts simultaneously at multiple sites shows greater potential to resolve acute inflammation more effectively and with fewer side effects than a common anti-inflammatory drug developed as a small molecule for a single target. In this work, we used time-series gene expression profiles from a wound healing mouse model to compare the effects of Traumeel (Tr14), a multicomponent natural product, to diclofenac, a single component NSAID on inflammation resolution.

RESULTS

We advance previous studies by mapping the data onto the "Atlas of Inflammation Resolution", followed by in silico simulations and network analysis. We found that Tr14 acts primarily on the late phase of acute inflammation (during resolution) compared to diclofenac, which suppresses acute inflammation immediately after injury.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results provide new insights how network pharmacology of multicomponent drugs may support inflammation resolution in inflammatory conditions.

Exploration of potential mechanism of Rougan formula against hepatic fibrosis by network analysis and experimental assessment

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Rougan Formula (RG) has long been clinically applied to treat hepatic fibrosis in patients with different chronic liver diseases. However, the core active substances and the potential pharmacological mechanisms of RG remain unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The purpose of this study is to explore bioactive components, key targets, and potential mechanisms of RG by performing network pharmacological analyses and experimental model validation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

All chemical components in RG extract were identified using ultraperformance liquid chromatography-quadrupole/time-of-flight tandem mass technology. The candidate components and drug targets of RG, as well as disease-related genes, were extracted from TCMSP and GeneCards databases. The potential pathways related to genes were predicted by Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment analyses. The core bioactive components, key targets, and signaling pathways were ultimately obtained by analyzing protein-protein interaction (PPI) and component-target-pathway (C-T-P) networks. Subsequently, the efficacy and underlying mechanisms of RG on hepatic fibrosis were experimentally validated in transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1)-induced hepatic stellate cell activation model and CCL₄-induced hepatic fibrosis mouse model.

RESULTS

A total of 52 components in RG extract were obtained, and 22 of them were selected as the core bioactive components. Five hundred and thirty-nine overlapped targets were determined by matching drug targets with disease-related targets. The results of PPI and C-T-P network analyses revealed 100 key targets and 19 signaling pathways associated with RG efficacy. In vitro and in vivo studies further verified that RG exerted a significant anti-hepatic fibrotic effect by suppressing the activation of hepatic stellate cells by downregulating the TGF-β1/Smads signaling pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

These results may provide some evidence for further clinical research and development of RG formula as an effective and safe drug for hepatic fibrosis treatment.

Plantamajoside attenuates cardiac fibrosis via inhibiting AGEs activated-RAGE/autophagy/EndMT pathway

Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) have been identified to transduce fibrogenic signals via inducing the activation of their receptor (RAGE)-mediated pathway. Recently, disrupting AGE-RAGE interaction has become a promising therapeutic strategy for chronic heart failure (CHF). Endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) is close to the cardiac fibrosis pathological process. Our previous studies have demonstrated that knockout RAGE suppressed the autophagy-mediated EndMT, and thus alleviated cardiac fibrosis. Plantamajoside (PMS) is the major bioactive compound of Plantago Asiatica, and its activity of anti-fibrosis has been documented in many reports. However, its effect on CHF and the underlying mechanism remains elusive. Thus, we tried to elucidate the protective role of PMS in CHF from the viewpoint of the AGEs/RAGE/autophagy/EndMT axis. Herein, PMS was found to attenuate cardiac fibrosis and dysfunction, suppress EndMT, reduce autophagy levels and serum levels of AGEs, yet did not affect the expression of RAGE in CHF mice. Mechanically, PMS possibly binds to the V-domain of RAGE, which is similar to the interaction between AGEs and RAGE. Importantly, this competitive binding disturbed AGEs-induced the RAGE-autophagy-EndMT pathway in vitro. Collectively, our results indicated that PMS might exert an anti-cardiac fibrosis effect by specifically binding RAGE to suppress the AGEs-activated RAGE/autophagy/EndMT pathway.

Challenges and Perspectives in Target Identification and Mechanism Illustration for Chinese Medicine

Chinese medicine (CM) is an important resource for human life understanding and discovery of drugs. However, due to the unclear pharmacological mechanism caused by unclear target, research and international promotion of many active components have made little progress in the past decades of years. CM is mainly composed of multi-ingredients with multi-targets. The identification of targets of multiple active components and the weight analysis of multiple targets in a specific pathological environment, that is, the determination of the most important target is the main obstacle to the mechanism clarification and thus hinders its internationalization. In this review, the main approach to target identification and network pharmacology were summarized. And BIBm (Bayesian inference modeling), a powerful method for drug target identification and key pathway determination was introduced. We aim to provide a new scientific basis and ideas for the development and international promotion of new drugs based on CM.

Pharmacological Activities of Mogrol: Potential Phytochemical against Different Diseases

Recently, mogrol has emerged as an important therapeutic candidate with multiple potential pharmacological properties, including neuroprotective, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antiobesity, antidiabetes, and exerting a protective effect on different organs such as the lungs, bone, brain, and colon. Pharmacokinetic studies also highlighted the potential of mogrol as a therapeutic. Studies were also conducted to design and synthesize the analogs of mogrol to achieve better activities against different diseases. The literature also highlighted the possible molecular mechanism behind pharmacological activities, which suggested the role of several important targets, including AMPK, TNF-α, and NF-κB. These important mogrol targets were verified in different studies, indicating the possible role of mogrol in other associated diseases. Still, the compilation of pharmacological properties, possible molecular mechanisms, and important targets of the mogrol is missing in the literature. The current study not only provides the compilation of information regarding pharmacological activities but also highlights the current gaps and suggests the precise direction for the development of mogrol as a therapeutic against different diseases.

Deciphering mechanism of Zhishi-Xiebai-Guizhi Decoction against hypoxia/reoxygenation injury in cardiomyocytes by cell metabolomics: Regulation of oxidative stress and energy acquisition

Myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (MI/R) injury is a life-threatening syndrome with high morbidity and mortality. Zhishi-Xiebai-Guizhi Decoction (ZSXBGZD) is a classic traditional Chinese medicine formula, used to treat cardiovascular diseases for centuries. However, its underlying medicinal mechanism has not been clearly elucidated, which hinders its widespread application. Here, the curative effects and therapeutic mechanism of ZSXBGZD against MI/R were addressed based on an integration of pharmaceutical evaluation and cellular metabolomics. First, a hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) model in H9c2 cells was employed to resemble MI/R and multiple pharmacological indicators were performed to assess the efficacy of ZSXBGZD. The results showed that ZSXBGZD possessed exceptional ability in attenuating cardiomyocyte injury, concerning oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, energy acquisition and cell apoptosis. Furthermore, a cell metabolomics approach based on HILIC and UPLC-Q-TOF-MS coupled with multivariate analysis was conducted to explore the metabolic regulation of ZSXBGZD. 38 differential polar metabolites related to H/R were uncovered, and 34 of them were reversed to normal state after the treatment of ZSXBGZD, revealing the perturbations of energy metabolism and amino acid metabolism. Moreover, formula decomposition justified the combination of single herbs to form ZSXBZGD and confirmed the pivotal status of Allii Macrostemonis Bulbus and Trichosanthis Fructus.

Systematic elucidation of the bioactive alkaloids and potential mechanism from Sophora flavescens for the treatment of eczema via network pharmacology

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY RELEVANCE

Sophora flavescens is a frequently used traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for the treatment of skin disorders, diarrhea, vaginal itching and inflammatory diseases. In particular, the root of S. flavescens combination with other herbs mainly treat eczema ailment in the clinical applications. However, a holistic network pharmacology approach to understanding the mechanism by which alkaloids in S. flavescens treat eczema has not been pursued.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To examine the network pharmacological potential effect of S. flavescens on eczema, we studied the alkaloids, performed protein targets prediction and investigated interacting signal pathways. Furthermore, animal experiment was carried out to evaluate its efficacy and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reactions (RT-qPCR) analysis was explored the mechanism of action.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The detail information on alkaloids from S. flavescens were obtained from a handful of public databases on the basis of oral bioavailability (OB ≥ 30%) and drug-likeness (DL ≥ 0.18). Then, correlations between compounds and protein targets were linked using the STRING database, and targets associated with eczema were gathered by the GeneCards database. Human genes were identified and subjected to Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis and Gene Ontology (GO) functional enrichment analysis. Particularly, matrine, the crucial alkaloid from S. flavescens, was estimated using a 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB)-induced eczema Kunming (KM) mice model, administered (50 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg) to mice for 22 days. On the last day, the activities of serum tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukin-4 (IL-4) and histopathologic examinations were determined. For further to elucidate the mechanisms, the mRNA levels of TNF-α, STAT3, TP53, AKT1, IL-6, JUN and EGFR in dorsal skin tissues were also tested.

RESULTS

Network analysis collected and identified 35 alkaloids from S. flavescens. Among them, in total 10 dominating alkaloids, including matrine, oxymatrine, sophoridine, sophocarpine, oxysophocarpine, allomatrine, sophoramine, anagyrine, cytisine and N-methylcytisine. And 71 related targets were provided of alkaloids for the treatment of eczema from S. flavescens. Furthermore, matrine dose-dependently (50 or 10 mg/kg, 22 days, apply to dorsal skin) remarkable decreased the serum levels of TNF-α and IL-4, and significantly alleviated the skin lesions. The effects of 50 mg/kg of matrine were almost identical to those of 200 mg/kg of the positive drug dexamethasone (DXM). The further RT-qPCR analyses could reveal that matrine down-regulate TNF-α, STAT3 and TP53 at transcriptional level in dorsal skin tissues.

CONCLUSION

Pharmacological network analysis can utilize to illuminate the pharmacodynamic substances and the potential molecular mechanism of S. flavescens for treating eczema. Matrine, as the crucial alkaloid from S. flavescens, could be a promising drug candidate for the treatment of eczema ailment.

An integrated targeted metabolomics and network pharmacology approach to exploring the mechanism of ellagic acid against sleep deprivation-induced memory impairment and anxiety

Background

As a neuroprotective agent, ellagic acid (EA) is extremely beneficial. Our previous study found that EA can alleviate sleep deprivation (SD)-induced abnormal behaviors, although the mechanisms underlying this protective effect have not yet been fully elucidated.

Objective

An integrated network pharmacology and targeted metabolomics approach was utilized in this study to investigate the mechanism of EA against SD-induced memory impairment and anxiety.

Methods

Behavioral tests were conducted on mice after 72 h of SD. Hematoxylin and eosin staining and nissl staining were then carried out. Integration of network pharmacology and targeted metabolomics was performed. Eventually, the putative targets were further verified using molecular docking analyses and immunoblotting assays.

Results

The present study findings confirmed that EA ameliorated the behavioral abnormalities induced by SD and prevented histopathological and morphological damage to hippocampal neurons. Through multivariate analysis, clear clustering was obtained among different groups, and potential biomarkers were identified. Four key targets, catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT), cytochrome P450 1B1 (CYP1B1), glutathione S-transferase A2 (GSTA2), and glutathione S-transferase P1 (GSTP1), as well as the related potential metabolites and metabolic pathways, were determined by further integrated analysis. Meanwhile, in-silico studies revealed that EA is well located inside the binding site of CYP1B1 and COMT. The experimental results further demonstrated that EA significantly reduced the increased expression of CYP1B1 and COMT caused by SD.

Conclusion

The findings of this study extended our understanding of the underlying mechanisms by which EA treats SD-induced memory impairment and anxiety, and suggested a novel approach to address the increased health risks associated with sleep loss.

Amelioration of alcohol-induced acute liver injury in C57BL/6 mice by a mixture of TCM phytochemicals and probiotics with antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects

Background

There are many causes of acute liver injury (ALI), such as alcohol, drugs, infection, and toxic materials, which have caused major health problems around the world. Among these causes, alcohol consumption induced liver injury is a common alcoholic liver disease, which can further lead to liver failure even liver cancer. A number of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and TCM derived compounds have been used in treating the liver-associated diseases and combination use of probiotics with TCM phytochemicals has attracted interests for enhanced biological effects.

Methods

This study investigated the hepatoprotective effect of TCM-probiotics complex (TCMPC) and its underlying mechanism for the treatment of ALI in mice. The TCMPC is composed of TCM phytochemicals puerarin, curcumin, ginsenosides, and 5 lactobacteria strains. We first established a mouse model of alcohol-induced ALI, then the therapeutic effects of TCMPC on alcohol-induced ALI were monitored. A series of measurements have been performed on antioxidation, anti-inflammation, and lipid metabolism regulation.

Results

The results showed that TCMPC can reduce the level of liver injury biomarkers and regulate oxidative stress. Histopathological results indicated that TCMPC could ameliorate ALI in mice. In addition, it can also significantly reduce the production of inflammatory cytokines caused by ALI.

Conclusion

Our research has proved the therapeutic effect of TCMPC on alcohol-induced ALI. The potential mechanism of hepatoprotective effects of TCMPC may be related to its antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects. Our research might provide a new way for liver disease treatment.

Deciphering the molecular mechanism of tetrandrine in inhibiting hepatocellular carcinoma and increasing sorafenib sensitivity by combining network pharmacology and experimental evaluation

CONTEXT

The mechanism of tetrandrine (TET) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression and sorafenib (Sora) chemosensitivity deserves investigation.

OBJECTIVE

Using network pharmacology approaches to elucidate the mechanisms of TET in HCC.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

CCK-8, colony formation, and flow cytometry assays were used to measure cell phenotypes. BALB/c nude mice were divided into Control, Sora (10 mg/kg), TET (50 mg/kg), and TET + Sora (10 mg/kg Sora plus 50 mg/kg TET) groups to evaluate the antitumor effects of TET for 21 days. Sora and TET were given by intraperitoneal injection or oral gavage.

RESULTS

For SMMC7721 (IC₅₀ = 22.5 μM) and PLC8024 (IC₅₀ = 18.4 μM), TET (10, 20 μM) reduced colony number (0.68 ± 0.04- and 0.50 ± 0.04-fold, 0.56 ± 0.04- and 0.42 ± 0.02-fold), induced cell cycle arrest at G0/G1 stage (1.22 ± 0.03- and 1.39 ± 0.07-fold, 1.37 ± 0.06- and 1.55 ± 0.05-fold), promoted apoptosis (2.49 ± 0.26- and 3.63 ± 0.33-fold, 2.74 ± 0.42- and 3.73 ± 0.61-fold), and inactivated PI3K/AKT/mTOR signalling. Sora (10 μM) decreased cell proliferation, enhanced apoptosis, and inhibited PI3K/AKT/mTOR signalling, and these effects were further aggravated in the combination group. Activating PI3K/AKT/mTOR reversed the effects of TET on cell proliferation and Sora sensitivity. In the combination group, tumour volumes and weights were decreased to 202.3 ± 17.4 mm³ and 151.5 ± 25.8 mg compared with Sora (510.6 ± 48.2 mm³ and 396.7 ± 33.5 mg).

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

TET enhances Sora sensitivity by inactivating PI3K/AKT/mTOR, suggesting the potential of TET as a chemosensitizer in HCC.

Identification of potent anti-Cryptosporidium new drug leads by screening traditional Chinese medicines

Cryptosporidium spp. are gastrointestinal opportunistic protozoan parasites that infect humans, domestic animals, and wild animals all over the world. Cryptosporidiosis is the second leading infectious diarrheal disease in infants less than 5 years old. Cryptosporidiosis is a common zoonotic disease associated with diarrhea in infants and immunocompromised individuals. Consequently, cryptosporidiosis is considered a serious economic, veterinary, and medical concern. The treatment options for cryptosporidiosis are limited. To address this problem, we screened a natural product library containing 87 compounds of Traditional Chinese Medicines for anti-Cryptosporidium compounds that could serve as novel drug leads and therapeutic targets against C. parvum. To examine the anti-Cryptosporidium activity and half-maximal inhibitory doses (EC50) of these compounds, we performed in vitro assays (Cryptosporidium growth inhibition assay and host cell viability assay) and in vivo experiments in mice. In these assays, the C. parvum HNJ-1 strain was used. Four of the 87 compounds (alisol-A, alisol-B, atropine sulfate, and bufotalin) showed strong anti-Cryptosporidium activity in vitro (EC50 values = 122.9±6.7, 79.58±13.8, 253.5±30.3, and 63.43±18.7 nM, respectively), and minimum host cell cytotoxicity (cell survival > 95%). Furthermore, atropine sulfate (200 mg/kg) and bufotalin (0.1 mg/kg) also showed in vivo inhibitory effects. Our findings demonstrate that atropine sulfate and bufotalin are effective against C. parvum infection both in vitro and in vivo. These compounds may, therefore, represent promising novel anti-Cryptosporidium drug leads for future medications against cryptosporidiosis.

East Wind, West Wind: Toward the modernization of traditional Chinese medicine

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has used herbal remedies for more than 2,000 years. The use of complimentary therapies has increased dramatically during the last years, especially in the West, and the incorporation and modernization of TCM in current medical practice is gaining momentum. We reflect on the main bottlenecks in the modernization of arcane Chinese herbal medicine: lack of standardization, safety concerns and poor quality of clinical trials, as well as the ways these are being overcome. Progress in these areas will facilitate the implementation of an efficacy approach, in which only successful clinical trials lead to the molecular characterization of active compounds and their mechanism of action. Traditional pharmacological methodologies will produce novel leads and drugs, and we describe TCM successes such as the discovery of artemisinin as well as many others still in the pipeline. Neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease, cancer and cardiovascular disease are the main cause of mortality in the Western world and, with an increasing old population in South East Asia, this trend will also increase in the Far East. TCM has been used for long time for treating these diseases in China and other East Asian countries. However, the holistic nature of TCM requires a paradigm shift. By changing our way of thinking, from "one-target, one-drug" to "network-target, multiple-component-therapeutics," network pharmacology, together with other system biology methodologies, will pave the way toward TCM modernization.

Chinese herbal prescriptions for COVID-19 management: Special reference to Taiwan Chingguan Yihau (NRICM101)

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a strain of coronavirus that causes COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019), the respiratory illness responsible for the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. As at June 2022, increasing numbers of newly diagnosed COVID-19-associated pneumonia cases worldwide have attracted close attention from the international community. The present review analyzes and summarizes the treatment of COVID-19 with traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). A systematic analysis of the efficacies and benefits of TCM for the treatment of COVID-19 was performed, and the mechanisms underlying such treatment are summarized. This analysis of the literature highlights the potential of TCM to prevent and treat COVID-19 via antiviral, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activities, with evidence showing that many TCM components act upon multiple targets and pathways. Famous TCM formulas include Qing-Fei-Pai-Du-Tang (QFPDT), Lianhuaqingwen Capsule (LHC), Taiwan Chingguan Yihau (NRICM101), and Jing Si herbal drink (JSHD). In particular, the botanical preparation NRICM101 was developed in 2020 for use in viral respiratory tract infections and is recommended for treating non-severe and mild COVID-19 infections. NRICM101 has been adopted for use in Taiwan for the clinical treatment of COVID-19. The common components and active ingredients of 10 TCM preparations have been analyzed for the most promising substances. This review aims to provide reliable evidence demonstrating the therapeutic efficacy of TCM substances in support of their further development against novel coronavirus infectious diseases in Taiwan.

Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking Analysis on Targets and Mechanisms of Berberine in Atypical Antipsychotic-Induced Metabolic Syndrome

Berberine (BBR), an isoquinoline alkaloid, possesses multiply pharmacological effects as a potential therapeutic drug for antipsychotic-induced metabolic syndrome (MetS). However, the underlying therapeutic mechanisms have not been fully elucidated. In this study, we aim to investigate the possible mechanisms by identifying the key targets and biological pathways through network pharmacology and molecular docking analysis. A total of 23 overlapping targets in the intersection set among BBR, atypical antipsychotic drugs (AADs), and MetS were determined. PPI network analysis showed that 22 out of the 23 overlapping targets closely interacted with the others. The following pathway enrichment analysis and molecular docking indicated a central role of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPARG) as the key target of BBR against AAD-induced MetS by acting on the PPAR signaling pathway, lipid and atherosclerosis, and AMP activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling pathway. In addition, cytochrome P-450 2D6 (CYP2D6) could be considered as another target of BBR in ameliorating antipsychotic-induced metabolic side effects. Collectively, this study investigated the central targets and biological pathways of BBR against AAD-induced MetS from a systematic perspective, and thus brings novel insights into further understanding of the protective effects of BBR.

Rapid separation and identification of 96 main constituents in Huanglian Jiedu decoction via ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-Orbitrap Fusion Tribrid mass spectrometer

Huanglian Jiedu decoction is a widely used traditional Chinese medicine with a broad spectrum of therapeutic effects, including heat clearing, detoxification, and attenuation of inflammation. However, the composition of Huanglian Jiedu decoction is still unclear due to its complexity and limitations of analytical methods. In this study, we established a fast and reliable analytical method based on ultra-performance LC-Orbitrap Fusion Tribrid mass spectrometer for high-speed separation and structural identification of multiple compounds in Huanglian Jiedu decoction. The analysis was carried out using a Hypersil GOLD C18 column (2.1 × 100 mm, 1.9 μm) with gradient elution coupled to a high-definition mass spectrometer system operating in both positive and negative ESI modes. According to the chromatographic retention time, precise molecular weight, fragment ion peaks, and published data, the main chromatographic peaks were attributed to specific molecules whose chemical structures were determined. In total, 96 components were identified, including 34 flavonoids and their glycosides, 23 alkaloids, 18 organic acids, 13 terpenoids, and 8 miscellaneous compounds. This study revealed the detailed chemical composition of Huanglian Jiedu decoction, which is of great importance for quality control and further pharmacological and mechanistic studies.

Combining network pharmacology, RNA-seq, and metabolomics strategies to reveal the mechanism of Cimicifugae Rhizoma - Smilax glabra Roxb herb pair for the treatment of psoriasis

BACKGROUND

Psoriasis is a prevalent chronic inflammatory skin condition marked by immune cell infiltration and keratinocyte abnormal proliferation. Cimicifugae Rhizoma - Smilax glabra Roxb (CS) herb pair, the main component of Shengma Detoxification Decoction, has been proven effective for the treatment of psoriasis. However, the mechanism is yet to be deciphered.

PURPOSE

To explore the mechanism of CS for the treatment of psoriasis.

METHODS

The imiquimod-induced psoriasis-like lesion mouse model was used to identify the targets and the molecular mechanisms of CS. Network pharmacology combined with RNA-seq strategy was employed to predict the targets and mechanisms of CS for psoriasis. Metabolomics approaches were used to demonstrate the complexity of CS for the treatment of psoriasis. Finally, a compound-response-enzyme-gene network was constructed based on the multi-omics results to elucidate potential connections.

RESULTS

The CS herb pair could significantly improve psoriatic lesions and reduce the inflammatory cell infiltration and proliferation of keratinocytes in skin lesions. Network pharmacology predicted that TNF, JNK, IL-6, and IL-1β could be potential targets. RNA-seq data revealed that CS could significantly regulate genes and signaling pathways associated with Th17 responses, such as IL-36, IL-1β, CCl2, CXCL16, keratin 14, keratin 5, and antimicrobial peptides S100A8 and S100A9 well as MAPK, mTOR, and other signaling pathways. Further experimental data validated that CS treatment remarkably reduced the expression of inflammatory cytokines and factors, such as CCL2, CCL7, IL1F6, IL-17, IL-23, IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6, and inhibited the phosphorylation of p38 and ERK1/2. This indicated that CS exerts its therapeutic effect by inhibiting the MAPK signaling pathways. In addition, metabolomic analyses demonstrated that CS treatment improved seven metabolic pathways, these included phenylalanine, tyrosine, pyruvate metabolism, carnitine metabolism, etc. Four key metabolites (L-Arginine, L-Phenylalanine, L-Carnitine, O-Acetylcarnitine) and nine differential genes (CMA1, PCBD2, TPSAB1, TPSB2, etc.) were identified that affected amino acid metabolism, carnitine metabolism, and other pathways contributing to the infiltration of Th17 cells in psoriatic lesions.

CONCLUSION

CS could alleviate IMQ-induced psoriasis-like dermatitis by reducing the expression of cytokines and chemokines mediated by the MAPK pathway, and improved amino acid and carnitine metabolism in vivo. Our study is the first to demonstrate the complex mechanism of CS for the treatment of psoriasis and provides a new paradigm to elucidate the pharmacological effects of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) drugs for psoriasis from multiple perspectives.

A review of pathobiological mechanisms and potential application of medicinal plants for vascular aging: focus on endothelial cell senescence

Endothelial cell (EC) senescence plays a pivotal role in aging and is essential for the pathomechanism of aging-related diseases. Drugs targeting cellular senescence, such as senolytic or senomorphic drugs, may prevent aging and age-related diseases, but these bullets remain undeveloped to target EC senescence. Some medicinal plants may have an anti-senescence property but remain undiscovered. Deep learning has become an emerging approach for drug discovery by simply analyzing cellular morphology-based deep learning. This precious tool would be useful for screening the herb candidate in senescent EC rejuvenescence. Of note, several medicinal plants that can be found in Indonesia such as Curcuma longa L., Piper retrofractum, Guazuma ulmifolia Lam, Centella asiatica (L.) Urb., and Garcinia mangostana L. might potentially possess an anti-senescence effect. This review highlighted the importance of targeting EC senescence, the use of deep learning for medicinal plant screening, and some potential anti-senescence plants originating from Indonesia.

Bioinformatics-Guided Identification of Ethyl Acetate Extract of Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium as a Functional Food Ingredient with Anti-Inflammatory Potential

Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium (CRP) is one of the most commonly used food supplements and folk medicines worldwide, and possesses cardiovascular, digestive, and respiratory protective effects partially through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory functions. The unique aromatic flavor and mild side effects make CRP a promising candidate for the development of anti-inflammatory functional food. However, recent studies show that the crude alcoholic extract and some isolated compounds of CRP show compromised anti-inflammatory activity, which became the main factor hindering its further development. To identify the bioactive compounds with anti-inflammatory potential, and improve the anti-inflammatory effects of the extract, a bioinformatics-guided extraction protocol was employed in this study. The potential bioactive candidates were identified by combing network pharmacology analysis, molecular docking, principal components analysis, k-means clustering, and in vitro testing of reference compounds. Our results demonstrated that 66 compounds in CRP could be grouped into four clusters according to their docking score profile against 24 receptors, while the cluster containing flavonoids and phenols might possess a more promising anti-inflammatory function. In addition, in vitro anti-inflammatory tests of the seven reference compounds demonstrated that hesperitin, naringenin, and gardenin B, which were grouped into a cluster containing flavonoids and phenols, significantly decreased LPS-induced NO, TNF-α, and IL-6 production of macrophages. While the compounds outside of that cluster, such as neohesperidin, naringin, hesperidin, and sinensetin showed little effect on alleviating LPS-induced NO and proinflammatory cytokine production. Based on the chemical properties of selected compounds, ethyl acetate (EtOAc) was selected as the solvent for extraction, because of its promising solubility of flavonoids and phenols. Furthermore, the ethanol alcoholic extract was used as a reference. The chemical profiling of EtOAc and crude alcoholic extract by HPLC/MS/MS also demonstrated the decreased abundance of flavonoid glycosides in EtOAc extract but increased abundance of phenols, phenolic acid, and aglycones. In accordance with the prediction, the EtOAc extract of CRP, but not the crude alcoholic extract, significantly decreased the NO, IL-6, and TNF-α production. Taken together, the results suggested selective extraction of phenols and flavonoids rich extract was able to increase the anti-inflammatory potential of CRP partially because of the synergistic effects between flavonoids, phenols, and enriched polymethoxyflavones. Our study might pave the road for the development of ethyl acetate extract of CRP as a novel functional food with anti-inflammatory function.

Assessing the efficacy and safety of Juan Bi Tang for dialysis-related myofascial pain in the fistula arm: Study protocol for a randomized cross-over trial

Background

Dialysis-related myofascial pain in hemodialysis (HD) patients is an important issue that is associated with many other psychosomatic problems. Effective interventions are required to alleviate pain in this group. Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) may be a potential therapeutic treatment for reducing pain. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effects of a classic CHM formula intervention on pain intensity, daily function, quality of life (QOL), and safety in patients receiving HD in a dialysis center within the context of southern Taiwan.

Methods

This will be a randomized, open label, cross-over trial with two parallel groups in a pre- and post-test study. Forty patients reporting myofascial pain related to the arteriovenous (AV) fistula in the arm during regular HD sessions will be recruited. Participants will receive 4 weeks of treatment with Juan Bi Tang (JBT) and 4 weeks of no treatment in a random order, separated by a washout period of 2 weeks. Treatment doses (3 g JBT) will be consumed thrice daily. The primary outcome measure will be the Kidney Disease Quality of Life 36-Item Short-Form Survey. Secondary outcomes will include the Fugl-Meyer Assessment-arm, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) of pain, and grip strength. Outcomes will be collected before and after each intervention, for a total of four times per participant. The safety evaluation will focus on adverse events (AEs).

Discussion

This study will be the first to use CHM to treat patients receiving HD with dialysis-related myofascial pain in their fistula arm and to perform a complete assessment of the treatment, including records of QOL, arm function and muscle power, severity of pain, and safety. The results of the study will provide convincing evidence on the use of JBT as an adjuvant treatment for dialysis-related myofascial pain.

Trial registration

Clinicaltrials.gov registry (NCT04417101) registered 30 May 2020.

A Glimpse of Inflammation and Anti-Inflammation Therapy in Diabetic Kidney Disease

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is a common complication of diabetes mellitus and a major cause of end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). The pathogenesis of DKD is very complex and not completely understood. Recently, accumulated evidence from in vitro and in vivo studies has demonstrated that inflammation plays an important role in the pathogenesis and the development of DKD. It has been well known that a variety of pro-inflammatory cytokines and related signaling pathways are involved in the procession of DKD. Additionally, some anti-hyperglycemic agents and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs) that are effective in alleviating the progression of DKD have anti-inflammatory properties, which might have beneficial effects on delaying the progression of DKD. However, there is currently a lack of systematic overviews. In this review, we focus on the novel pro-inflammatory signaling pathways in the development of DKD, including the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathway, toll-like receptors (TLRs) and myeloid differentiation primary response 88 (TLRs/MyD88) signaling pathway, adenosine 5′-monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling pathways, inflammasome activation, mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) release as well as hypoxia-inducible factor-1(HIF-1) signaling pathway. We also discuss the related anti-inflammation mechanisms of metformin, finerenone, sodium-dependent glucose transporters 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors, Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist and traditional Chinese medicines (TCM).

He's Yangchao Recipe Ameliorates Ovarian Oxidative Stress of Aging Mice under Consecutive Superovulation Involving JNK- And P53-Related Mechanism

Objective

To evaluate the effects of He's Yangchao Recipe (HSYC) on ameliorating ovarian oxidative stress of aging mice under consecutive superovulation.

Methods

An 8-month-old C57BL/6 female mouse was chosen to establish an aging model under ovarian hyperstimulation. Mice were randomly separated into four groups: R1 as the control group, R4 as the model group, NR4 with N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) administration, and TR4 with HSYC administration. Oocyte collection, in vitro fertilization, and embryo culture were performed. The serum hormone levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA); the reactive oxygen species (ROS) level of oocytes, the number of growing follicles, corpus luteum, ovulated oocytes, and developing embryos at each stage, along with the proportions of fragmented oocytes and abnormal mitochondria in granulosa cells (GCs) and the apoptosis rate of GCs were calculated; the mRNA and protein levels of JNK, P53, BAX were detected by real-time PCR and the Simple Western System.

Results

HSYC enhanced estradiol, progesterone, and inhibin-B levels and increased growing follicle and corpus luteum and ovulated egg counts compared to the R4 group (P < 0.05), whereas it decreased the proportions of fragmented oocytes (P < 0.01); Meanwhile, embryos from mice subjected to four superovulation cycles with HSYC treated had a higher hatching potential. The ROS level of oocytes is downregulated by HSYC (P < 0.01) and the percentage of abnormal mitochondrial in ovaries of the TR4 group was also significantly declined compared to the R4 group (P < 0.05); the most TUNEL-positive cells proportion was detected in the R4 group; nevertheless, HSYC effectively attenuated this detrimental effect (P < 0.05). The mRNA and protein expressions of JNK and P53 in ovary tissues were reduced in the TR4 group while these genes were upregulated by repeated superovulation (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

HSYC exerted promising effects on promoting the diminished ovarian reserve and decreased oocyte quality induced by both aging and consecutive ovarian superovulation, potentially via the ROS/JNK/p53 pathway.

Nootkatone alleviates rotenone-induced Parkinson's disease symptoms through activation of the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway

Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disease worldwide. Nootkatone (NKT) has been shown to have neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects and in this study, we systematically studied the efficacy and mechanism of action of NKT in rotenone (ROT)-induced PD rats. Firstly, through behavioral experiments and brain tissue staining, we found that NKT alleviated behavioral dysfunction and protected dopaminergic neurons associated with ROT-induced PD rats. Next, target prediction, protein-protein interaction (PPI), Gene Ontology (GO), and pathway enrichment analyses were used to obtain potential targets, specific biological processes, and molecular mechanisms of NKT for the potential treatment of PD. Furthermore, we also applied molecular docking to predict the binding capacity of NKT and related targets. Additionally, in vivo experiments confirmed that NKT could inhibit the expression of Mitogen-activated protein kinase 3 (MAPK3) by activating the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, reducing neuroinflammation, and ultimately ameliorating ROT-induced PD symptoms. Taken together, the results of the study provide a clear explanation for the remission of PD symptoms by NKT, suggesting that it may be a promising candidate for the treatment of PD.