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Zhang Y, Zhang F, Zhang Y, Wang M, Gao Y, Li H, Sun J, Xie Z. Investigating the therapeutic mechanism of Jiedu-Quyu-Ziyin Fang on systemic lupus erythematosus through the ERα-miRNA-TLR7 immune axis. Heliyon 2024; 10:e32752. [PMID: 38948043 PMCID: PMC11209013 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e32752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Jiedu-Quyu-Ziyin Fang (JQZF) is a formula that has been empirically used for the treatment of SLE in clinical practice. JQZF has become an approved hospital prescription in China. Fifteen MRL/lpr mice were randomly divided into three groups: Model, JQZF, and JQZF + GC, with five mice in each group. Five MRL/MPJ mice were used as the Blank group. After 8 weeks of administration, peripheral blood serum was collected to detect anti-dsDNA antibodies and complement C3 levels. Spleen B cells were collected to detect the expression of TLR7 and NF-κBp65 mRNA, and correlation analysis was performed. Transcriptome sequencing analysis was also performed on spleen B cells. Further, key miRNA and key gene mRNA expression were detected by RT-qPCR, and key protein expression levels were detected by Western blot method. Bioinformatics methods predicted that ESR1 is a key target of JQZF action on SLE, hsa-miR-146a-5p is one of the key miRNAs, and KEGG pathway analysis showed that NF-κB signaling pathway is its key signaling pathway. Transcriptome sequencing of MRL/lpr mouse spleen B cells revealed that the differential genes between the JQZF and Model groups were enriched in Toll-like receptor signaling pathway, NF-κB signaling pathway, Estrogen signaling pathway, etc. Animal studies show that JQZF treatment significantly boosts serum C3 and lowers anti-dsDNA antibodies (P < 0.01). On the molecular level, JQZF suppresses TLR7 and NF-κBp65 mRNA in spleen B cells, with TLR7 mRNA positively linked to anti-dsDNA titers and negatively to serum C3. Further cellular work demonstrates that JQZF reverses the increased IRAK1 and TRAF6 expression seen after miR146a inhibition. Additionally, post-ERα inhibition, JQZF continues to upregulate miR146a and more significantly reduces TLR7 mRNA expression (P < 0.01), pointing to ERα's pivotal role in the miR146a-TLR7 axis. These results indicate JQZF alleviates SLE by adjusting the ERα-miR146a-TLR7 loop, showcasing its mechanism and therapeutic potential for SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - MeiJiao Wang
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Rheumatology of Zhejiang Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310000, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Yan Gao
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Rheumatology of Zhejiang Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310000, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - HaiChang Li
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Rheumatology of Zhejiang Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310000, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Jing Sun
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Rheumatology of Zhejiang Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310000, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - ZhiJun Xie
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Rheumatology of Zhejiang Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310000, Zhejiang Province, China
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Yang F, Zhang Y, Dong L, Song Z. Cordyceps cicadae ameliorates inflammatory responses, oxidative stress, and fibrosis by targeting the PI3K/mTOR-mediated autophagy pathway in the renal of MRL/lpr mice. Immun Inflamm Dis 2024; 12:e1168. [PMID: 38270299 PMCID: PMC10808846 DOI: 10.1002/iid3.1168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 01/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The vast majority of systemic lupus erythematosus patients develop lupus nephritis (LN) with severe renal manifestations, such as inflammatory responses, oxidative stress, and fibrosis. The purpose of this research was to investigate Cordyceps cicadae as a potential therapeutic target for treating inflammatory responses, oxidative stress, and fibrosis in LN. METHODS The effects of C. cicadae on lupus symptoms in mice with LN were determined. MRL/lpr mice were treated with C. cicadae (4 g/kg/day, i.e., CC group, n = 8) or an equal volume of saline (model group, n = 8), and MRL/MP mice were treated with an equal volume of saline (control group, n = 8). Renal function indices, renal pathology, inflammatory markers, oxidative stress markers, and renal interstitial fibrosis levels were evaluated after C. cicadae treatment. Western blot analysis was performed to investigate the effect of C. cicadae on the expression of fibrosis biomarkers and the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR)-mediated autophagy pathway in the renal tissues of mice. RESULTS C. cicadae ameliorated renal lesions, the inflammatory response, and oxidative stress damage in MRL/lpr mice. C. cicadae treatment inhibited renal fibrosis (16.31 ± 4.16 vs. 31.25 ± 5.61) and downregulated the expression of the fibrosis biomarkers alpha-smooth muscle actin, fibronectin, and collagen I (COL I) in the kidneys of MRL/lpr mice. In addition, further research showed that the PI3K/mTOR-mediated autophagy pathway was involved in C. cicadae-mediated effects on renal fibrosis in MRL/lpr mice. Furthermore, the therapeutic effect of C. cicadae on repairing renal fibrosis and damage in MRL/lpr mice was abolished by the PI3K agonist 740 Y-P. CONCLUSIONS The findings of the present research showed that C. cicadae could alleviate inflammatory responses, oxidative stress, and fibrosis in the renal tissues of mice with LN by targeting the PI3K/mTOR-mediated autophagy pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Yang
- Department of RheumatologyYantai Hospital of Traditional Chinese MedicineYantai CityShandongChina
| | - Yanyan Zhang
- Department of RheumatologyYantai Hospital of Traditional Chinese MedicineYantai CityShandongChina
| | - Lei Dong
- Department of RheumatologyYantai Hospital of Traditional Chinese MedicineYantai CityShandongChina
| | - Zhichao Song
- Department of RheumatologyYantai Hospital of Traditional Chinese MedicineYantai CityShandongChina
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Huang S, Peng J, Gan Y, Chen L, Zhu Z, Tian F, Ji L, Fan Y, Zhou C, Bao J. Jieduquyuziyin prescription enhances CD11a and CD70 DNA methylation of CD4 + T cells via miR-29b-sp1/DNMT1 pathway in MRL/lpr mice. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 317:116776. [PMID: 37343653 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Jieduquyuziyin prescription (JP) is a traditional Chinese medicine utilized to treat systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Its efficacy has been confirmed through clinical trials and empirical evidence, leading to its authorized use in Chinese hospitals. The development of JP exemplifies the integration of traditional wisdom and scientific approaches, demonstrating the interdisciplinary essence of ethnopharmacology. These results emphasize the potential value of traditional medicine in addressing autoimmune disorders. AIM OF THE STUDY This study aims to address the effect of JP in MRL/lpr mice and elucidate the pharmacological mechanism by which JP targets CD11a and CD70 DNA methylation via the miR-29b-sp1/DNMT1 pathway. MATERIALS AND METHODS MRL/lpr mice were divided into three groups: the model group (received distilled water), the positive group (administered AAV/miR-29b-3p inhibitor), and the JP group (treated with JP decoction). C57BL/6 mice were constituted as a control group. Through ELISA assay, serum and urine samples were assessed for anti-dsDNA, TNF-α, TGF-β, IL-2, and UP. HE and Masson staining were conducted to reveal renal pathology. Genome DNA was extracted from CD4+ T cells of mice spleens to evaluate methylation level. The methylation of CD11a, CD70, and CD40L promoter regions was analyzed by targeted bisulfate sequencing. Their expression at the mRNA and protein levels was examined using quantitative real-time PCR, western blot analysis, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence staining of kidney tissues. Furthermore, the molecular mechanisms underlying the regulation of the miR-29b-sp1/DNMT1 pathway by JP were explored with Jurkat cells transfected with miR-inhibitors or miR-mimics. RESULTS Mice treated with JP exhibited a significant decrease in anti-dsDNA, TNF-α, TGF-β, and UP, accompanied by a significant increase in IL-2. HE staining revealed JP effectively mitigated renal inflammatory response, while Masson staining indicated a reduction in collagen fiber content. In addition, JP exhibited a significant impact on the global hypomethylation of SLE, as evidenced by the induction of high methylation levels of CD11a and CD70 promoter regions, mediated through the miR-29b-sp1/DNMT1 pathway. CONCLUSION Our findings demonstrate JP exerts a protective effect against spontaneous SLE development, attenuates renal pathological changes, and functions as a miRNA inhibitor to enhance CD11a and CD70 DNA methylation through the modulation of the miR-29b-sp1/DNMT1 pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuo Huang
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Rheumatology of Zhejiang Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Jiaqi Peng
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Rheumatology of Zhejiang Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Yihong Gan
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Rheumatology of Zhejiang Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Leiming Chen
- Department of Nephrology, Wenzhou Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Zhengyang Zhu
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Fengyuan Tian
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Rheumatology of Zhejiang Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Lina Ji
- Department of Rheumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Yongsheng Fan
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Rheumatology of Zhejiang Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Chuanlong Zhou
- Department of Acupuncture, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Jie Bao
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Rheumatology of Zhejiang Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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Guo Y, Zhou M, Mu Z, Guo J, Hou Y, Xu Y, Geng L. Recent advances in shikonin for the treatment of immune-related diseases: Anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory mechanisms. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 165:115138. [PMID: 37454591 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Shikonin, the primary active compound found in the rhizome of the traditional Chinese medicinal herb known as "ZiCao", exhibits a diverse range of pharmacological effects. This drug has a wide range of uses, including as an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer agent. It is also effective in promoting wound healing and treating autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis, diabetes, asthma, systemic lupus erythematosus, inflammatory bowel disease, psoriasis, and rheumatoid arthritis. Although shikonin has a wide range of applications, its mechanisms are still not fully understood. This review article provides a comprehensive overview of the recent advancements in the use of shikonin for the treatment of immune-related diseases. The article also delves into the anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory mechanisms of shikonin and offers insights into the inflammation and immunopathogenesis of related diseases. Overall, this article serves as a valuable resource for researchers and clinicians working in this field. These findings not only provide significant new information on the effects and mechanisms of shikonin but also establish a foundation for the development of clinical applications in treating autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yimeng Guo
- Department of Dermatology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, 155N Nanjing Street, Heping District, Shenyang, Liaoning 110000, China; National joint Engineering Research Center for Theranostics of Immunological Skin Diseases, Shenyang, China; Key Laboratory of Immunodermatology, Ministry of Education and NHC, Shenyang, China
| | - Mingming Zhou
- Department of Dermatology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, 155N Nanjing Street, Heping District, Shenyang, Liaoning 110000, China; National joint Engineering Research Center for Theranostics of Immunological Skin Diseases, Shenyang, China; Key Laboratory of Immunodermatology, Ministry of Education and NHC, Shenyang, China
| | - Zhenzhen Mu
- Department of Dermatology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, 155N Nanjing Street, Heping District, Shenyang, Liaoning 110000, China
| | - Jinrong Guo
- Department of Dermatology, Jincheng People's Hospital, 456N Wenchang East Street, Jincheng, Shanxi 048000, China
| | - Yuzhu Hou
- Department of Dermatology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, 155N Nanjing Street, Heping District, Shenyang, Liaoning 110000, China; National joint Engineering Research Center for Theranostics of Immunological Skin Diseases, Shenyang, China; Key Laboratory of Immunodermatology, Ministry of Education and NHC, Shenyang, China
| | - Yuanyuan Xu
- Department of Dermatology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, 155N Nanjing Street, Heping District, Shenyang, Liaoning 110000, China; National joint Engineering Research Center for Theranostics of Immunological Skin Diseases, Shenyang, China; Key Laboratory of Immunodermatology, Ministry of Education and NHC, Shenyang, China
| | - Long Geng
- Department of Dermatology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, 155N Nanjing Street, Heping District, Shenyang, Liaoning 110000, China; National joint Engineering Research Center for Theranostics of Immunological Skin Diseases, Shenyang, China; Key Laboratory of Immunodermatology, Ministry of Education and NHC, Shenyang, China.
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He Y, Tian W, Zhang M, Qiu H, Li H, Shi X, Song S, Wen C, Chen J. Jieduquyuziyin prescription alleviates SLE complicated by atherosclerosis via promoting cholesterol efflux and suppressing TLR9/MyD88 activation. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 309:116283. [PMID: 36898449 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Jieduquyuziyin prescription (JP), as a traditional Chinese medicine formula, is extensively applied to treat systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Its prescription is based on clinical practice and an evidence-based application of traditional medicines. It is approved by use in Chinese hospitals as a clinical prescription that can be directly used. AIM OF THE STUDY The study aims to elucidate JP's efficacy on lupus-like disease combined with atherosclerosis and to explore its mechanism. MATERIALS AND METHODS To conduct in vivo experiments, we established a model of lupus-like disease with atherosclerosis in ApoE-/- mice fed a high-fat diet and injected intraperitoneally with pristane. In addition, oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) and a TLR9 agonist (CpG-ODN2395) were utilized to examine the mechanism of JP on SLE combined with AS in RAW264.7 macrophages in vitro. RESULTS Results indicated that JP reduced hair loss and levels of the spleen index, maintained stable body weight, alleviated kidney damage in mice, and reduced the expression levels of urinary protein, autoantibodies, and inflammatory factors in serum. Furthermore, JP is effective at alleviating the lupus-like symptoms observed in mice. In mice, JP inhibited aortic plaque deposition, stimulated lipid metabolism, and increased the expression of genes that regulate cholesterol efflux, including ATP-binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1), ATP-binding cassette subfamily G member 1 (ABCG1), scavenger receptor class B type I (SR-BI), and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPAR-γ). In vivo, JP inhibited the expression of the Toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9)-induced signaling pathway, which links TLR9/MyD88/NF-kB to the expression of subsequent inflammatory factors. Furthermore, JP inhibited the expression of TLR9 and MyD88 in vitro. In addition, the JP treatment effectively reduced foam cell formation in RAW264.7 macrophages by increasing the expression of ABCA1/G1, PPAR-γ and SR-BI. CONCLUSIONS JP played a therapeutic role in ApoE-/- mice with pristane-induced lupus-like diseases and AS, possibly through inhibition of TLR9/MyD88 signaling and promotion of cholesterol efflux.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanfang He
- College of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Rheumatology of Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Weiyu Tian
- College of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Rheumatology of Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Miao Zhang
- College of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Rheumatology of Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Haonan Qiu
- College of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Rheumatology of Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Haichang Li
- College of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Rheumatology of Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Xiaowei Shi
- College of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Rheumatology of Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Siyue Song
- College of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Rheumatology of Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Chengping Wen
- College of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Rheumatology of Zhejiang Province, China.
| | - Juan Chen
- College of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Rheumatology of Zhejiang Province, China.
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Wang W, Wang YH, Yang K, Ye X, Wang X, Wei JCC. Traditional Chinese medicine use is associated with lower risk of pneumonia in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: a population-based retrospective cohort study. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1185809. [PMID: 37324478 PMCID: PMC10267408 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1185809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives: To investigate the association between traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) therapy and the risk of pneumonia in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Methods: This population-based control study analyzed the data retrieved from the National Health Insurance Research database in Taiwan. From a cohort of 2 million records of the 2000-2018 period, 9,714 newly diagnosed patients with SLE were initially included. 532 patients with pneumonia and 532 patients without pneumonia were matched 1:1 based on age, sex, and year of SLE diagnosis using propensity score matching. The use of TCM therapy was considered from the SLE diagnosis date to the index date and the cumulative days of TCM therapy were used to calculate the dose effect. Conditional logistic regression was used to investigate the risk of pneumonia infection. Furthermore, to explore the severity of pneumonia in SLE, sensitivity analyses were performed after stratification using the parameters of emergency room visit, admission time, and antibiotic use. Results: TCM therapy for >60 days could significantly reduce the risk of pneumonia in patients with SLE (95% CI = 0.46-0.91; p = 0.012). Stratified analysis showed that TCM use also reduced the risk of pneumonia in younger and female patients with SLE by 34% and 35%, respectively. TCM for >60 days significantly reduced the risk of pneumonia in the follow-up periods of >2, >3, >7, and >8 years. In addition, the exposure of TCM for >60 days reduced the risk of pneumonia in patients with SLE who were treated with antibiotics for moderate or severe pneumonia. Finally, the study found that using formulae to tonify the kidney for more than 90 days and formulae to activate blood circulation for less than 30 days could significantly reduce the risk of pneumonia infection in patients with SLE. Conclusion: TCM use is associated with a lower risk of pneumonia among patients with SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weijie Wang
- Department of Rheumatology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
- Institute of Basic Theory for Chinese Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Science, Beijing, China
| | - Yu-Hsun Wang
- Department of Medical Research, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Kepeng Yang
- Department of Rheumatology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiangsheng Ye
- The First Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xinchang Wang
- Department of Rheumatology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - James Cheng-Chung Wei
- Department of Allergy, Immunology and Rheumatology, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Integrated Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
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Liu J, Li X, Bai H, Yang X, Mu J, Yan R, Wang S. Traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and pharmacokinetics of the root bark of Paeonia x suffruticosa andrews: A comprehensive review. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 308:116279. [PMID: 36822345 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 02/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Moutan Cortex (MC), commonly known as "Mu dan pi", refers to the dried root bark of Paeonia x suffruticosa Andrews and is broadly used as a traditional herbal medication in China, Japan, and Korea. For thousands of years, it has been utilized to treat female genital, extravasated blood, cardiovascular, and stagnant blood disorders. AIM OF THE REVIEW The purpose of this review article was to summarize information on the traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology and pharmacokinetics of MC, as well as to outline the further research directions for the development of new drugs and the associations between traditional uses and pharmacological effects. MATERIALS AND METHODS The information involved in the study was gathered from a variety of electronic resources, including PubMed, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, SciFinder, China Knowledge Resource Integrated Database, and Google Scholar. The date was from 1992 to 2022. RESULTS Approximately 163 chemical compounds have been extracted and identified from MC, including monoterpenes, monoterpene glycosides, triterpenes, phenolics, flavonoids, volatile oils, alkaloids, and others. In these categories, the monoterpene glycosides and phenols being the most common. A wide variety of pharmacological effects have been described for MC crude extracts and active molecules, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antiviral, antitumor, antidiabetic, organ protection, and neuroprotective activities, as well as treating cardiovascular diseases. Pharmacokinetics has been also used in the study of MC, including its crude extracts or chemical constituents, in order to explore the therapeutic mechanism, direct clinically appropriate application and provide new ideas for the exploitation of innovative medicines. CONCLUSION Modern pharmacological research has demonstrated that MC, as a significant therapeutic resource, has the ability to heal a wide range of diseases, particularly female genital and cardiovascular problems. These researches propose therapeutic ideas for the development of novel MC medicines. Furthermore, preclinical and clinical study have verified several observed pharmacological properties related with the traditional usages of MC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jincai Liu
- Northwest University Faculty of Life and Health Science, Northwest University, 229 Taibai Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, China
| | - Xiang Li
- Northwest University Faculty of Life and Health Science, Northwest University, 229 Taibai Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, China
| | - Huixin Bai
- Northwest University Faculty of Life and Health Science, Northwest University, 229 Taibai Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, China
| | - Xu Yang
- Northwest University Faculty of Life and Health Science, Northwest University, 229 Taibai Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, China
| | - Jun Mu
- Northwest University Faculty of Life and Health Science, Northwest University, 229 Taibai Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, China
| | - Ruonan Yan
- Northwest University Faculty of Life and Health Science, Northwest University, 229 Taibai Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, China
| | - Siwang Wang
- Northwest University Faculty of Life and Health Science, Northwest University, 229 Taibai Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, China.
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Paeoniflorin Inhibits LPS-Induced Activation of Splenic CD4+ T Lymphocytes and Relieves Pathological Symptoms in MRL/lpr Mice by Suppressing IRAK1 Signaling. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2022; 2022:5161890. [DOI: 10.1155/2022/5161890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Interleukin-1receptor-associated kinase 1 (IRAK1) plays a critical role in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). It was reported that SLE was associated with an inflammatory response mediated by defective immune tolerance, including overproduction of autoantibodies, chronic inflammation, and organ damage. Previous reports stated paeoniflorin (PF) had an immunosuppressive effect. The purpose of this study was to determine the anti-inflammatory effect of PF in SLE and its underlying mechanisms. Followed by induced with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), the splenocytes and the isolated CD4+ T lymphocytes of MRL/lpr mice were divided into three groups: control group, LPS group, and LPS + PF group, respectively. MRL/MP mice were used as the control group (treated with distilled water). The MRL/lpr mice were randomly divided into three groups: the model group (treated with distilled water), the prednisone group, and the PF group. The MRL/lpr mice were treated with prednisone acetate (5 mg/kg) and PF (25, 50, and 75 mg/kg) for eight weeks. Subsequently, ELISA, qRT-PCR, western blotting, HE, and Masson staining were performed to detect various indicators. The results of Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) showed that 10 μg/mL of LPS had the optimum effect on cell viability, and 50 μmol/L of PF had no obvious cytotoxicity to LPS-treated cells. PF reduced the expression level of IRAK1-nuclearfactor-κB (NF-κB) and its downstream inflammatory cytokines in the splenocytes and CD4+ T lymphocytes of MRL/lpr mice stimulated by LPS, especially in the latter. The serum antibody contents in the PF group mice were reduced, and the kidney damage was also alleviated accordingly. Moreover, the IRAK1/inhibitor of the nuclear factor-κB kinase (IKK)/NF-κB inhibitor (IκB)/NF-κB pathways was found to be involved in the anti-inflammation effect of PF in the kidney and spleen. In conclusion, it is thought that PF may have the potential to be used as a therapeutic agent to reduce the inflammatory activity of SLE. Inhibition of the IRAK1-NF-κB pathway may help formulate novel therapeutic tactics for SLE.
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Du L, Feng Y, Wang C, Shi X, Wen C, He Z, Zhang Y. Jieduquyuziyin prescription promotes the efficacy of prednisone via upregulating Nrf2 in MRL/lpr kidneys. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 298:115643. [PMID: 36031105 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2022.115643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE The Jieduquyuziyin prescription (JP), a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula, has been used as an approved hospital prescription to improve the efficacy of prednisone (Pred) in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and lupus nephritis (LN) treatment. Although the synergistic effect of JP and Pred is prominent, the underlying mechanisms require further investigation. AIM OF THE STUDY To explore the key therapeutic targets of JP in improving the role of Pred in the treatment of LN. MATERIALS AND METHODS Lupus-prone female MRL/lpr mice were administered JP, Pred, or JP combined with Pred. The effect of JP on LN was estimated by evaluating renal function and inflammation levels in the kidneys. On this basis, RNA sequencing of kidney tissues was performed, and the differentially expressed genes were analyzed and summarized. The role of JP in the expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NFE2L2 or Nrf2) in the kidneys was further confirmed by real-time PCR, immunohistochemistry, and western blotting. RESULTS JP combined with Pred exhibited the most remarkable therapeutic effect compared with JP or Pred alone. Transcriptome analysis indicated that Nrf2, a central mediator of the antioxidative response, was significantly upregulated by JP. Based on these results, we speculated that Nrf2 is a critical factor for JP, improving the efficacy of Pred in treating LN by notably suppressing the oxidative stress level in the kidneys. Furthermore, we found that Nrf2 expression decreased with the exacerbation of LN in MRL/lpr mice. In addition, the downregulated Nrf2 was notably restored after JP treatment, accompanied by suppressed oxidative stress levels in the kidneys. It includes inhibited accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA), restored mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) levels, and increased antioxidant enzyme activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD). CONCLUSIONS Our findings show that JP increases Pred efficacy by increasing Nrf2 expression, implying that Nrf2 may be a promising therapeutic target for the treatment of LN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijun Du
- Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, College of Basic Medical Science,Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China.
| | - Yuxiang Feng
- Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, College of Basic Medical Science,Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China.
| | - Chenxi Wang
- Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, College of Basic Medical Science,Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China.
| | - Xiaowei Shi
- Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, College of Basic Medical Science,Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China.
| | - Chengping Wen
- Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, College of Basic Medical Science,Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China.
| | - Zhixing He
- Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, College of Basic Medical Science,Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China.
| | - Yun Zhang
- Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, College of Basic Medical Science,Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China.
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Chen K, Wu T, Wang D, Li R, Shen X, Zhao T, Ozato K, Li R. Transcriptomics and quantitative proteomics reveal changes after second stimulation of bone marrow-derived macrophages from lupus-prone MRL/lpr mice. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1004232. [PMID: 36341359 PMCID: PMC9627492 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1004232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Innate immune memory can cause the occurrence and exacerbation of autoimmune diseases, and it is as well as being strongly associated with the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), however, the specific mechanism remains to be further studied. We learned that IFN-γ stimulation generated innate immune memory in bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) and activated memory interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs). This research used IFN-γ and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to treat BMDMs with lupus-prone MRL/lpr mice and showed that particular memory ISGs were substantially elevated in prestimulated macrophages. In order to identify the differentially expressed genes (DEGs), researchers turned to RNA-seq. GO and KEGG analysis showed that up-regulated DEGs were enriched in defense and innate immune responses, and were related to the expression of pattern recognition receptors (PRRs)-related pathways in macrophages. TMT-based proteome analysis revealed differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) up-regulated in BMDMs were abundant in metabolic pathways such as glucose metabolism. Our study found that after the secondary stimulation of MRL/lpr mice, the expression of PRRs in innate immune cells was changed, and IFN-related pathways were activated to release a large number of ISGs to promote the secondary response. At the same time, related metabolic modes such as glycolysis were enhanced, and epigenetic changes may occur. Therefore, SLE is brought on, maintained, and worsened by a variety of factors that work together to produce innate immune memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keyue Chen
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Rheumatology of Zhejiang Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Tiyun Wu
- Division of Developmental Biology, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Danyan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Rheumatology of Zhejiang Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Rong Li
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Rheumatology of Zhejiang Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiangfeng Shen
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Rheumatology of Zhejiang Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ting Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Rheumatology of Zhejiang Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Keiko Ozato
- Division of Developmental Biology, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
- *Correspondence: Keiko Ozato, ; Rongqun Li,
| | - Rongqun Li
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Rheumatology of Zhejiang Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Keiko Ozato, ; Rongqun Li,
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11
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Li Y, Ding T, Chen J, Ji J, Wang W, Ding B, Ge W, Fan Y, Xu L. The protective capability of Hedyotis diffusa Willd on lupus nephritis by attenuating the IL-17 expression in MRL/lpr mice. Front Immunol 2022; 13:943827. [PMID: 35958622 PMCID: PMC9359319 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.943827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Lupus nephritis (LN), the most severe organ manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), is generally treated with glucocorticoids (GC) in clinical practice, leading to drug resistance and adverse effects in the long term. Fortunately, the combination of GC and traditional Chinese medical prescriptions can attenuate the adverse effects and improve therapeutic efficiency. Hedyotis diffusa Willd (HDW) is one of the most commonly used herbal compounds for LN treatment, which exhibits “heat-clearing” and “detoxification” effects. However, the underlying pharmacological mechanism remains unclear. The present study identified the chemical compounds in HDW extract with UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS. A total of 49 components were identified in the HDW extract, and the IL-17 signaling pathway was highly enriched by network pharmacological analysis. MRL/lpr model mice, reflecting the spontaneous development of LN, were used to evaluate the protective activity and investigate the underlying mechanism of the combination treatment. The white blood cell content (WBC), including lymphocytes and neutrophils, cytokines (IL-6, MCP-1, TNF-a), and various autoantibodies (ANA, ab-dsDNA, ab-snRNP/sm) in the blood of MRL/lpr mice were significantly improved by the intragastric administration of HDW. Additionally, the expression of STAT3, IL-17, Ly6G, and MPO in the kidney and neutrophil NETosis were ameliorated with HDW treatment. The pathological and morphological analysis suggested that HDW application could reduce urinary protein levels and inflammatory cell infiltration and inhibit glomerular interstitial cell proliferation. Hence, HDW might ameliorate lupus nephritis by inhibiting IL-6 secretion and STAT3-induced IL-17 expression. The active compounds in HDW were predictively selected with computational methods. The docking affinity of asiatic acid, neoandrographolide to IL-6, glycyrrhetinic acid, oleanolic acid, ursolic acid, and wilforlide A to STAT3 are extremely high. In conclusion, the IL-6 and STAT3/IL-17signaling pathways could be critical regulative targets of HDW on LN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Li
- School of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Tao Ding
- School of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jing Chen
- School of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jinjun Ji
- School of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Weijie Wang
- Department of Rheumatology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Bin Ding
- School of Life Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Weihong Ge
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yongsheng Fan
- School of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Li Xu
- School of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Li Xu,
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12
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Investigating the Mechanisms of Jieduquyuziyin Prescription Improves Lupus Nephritis and Fibrosis via FXR in MRL/lpr Mice. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2022; 2022:4301033. [PMID: 35855861 PMCID: PMC9288302 DOI: 10.1155/2022/4301033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Revised: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Lupus nephritis (LN) is one of the most serious complications of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and one of the leading causes of death. An alternative effective treatment to ameliorate and relieve LN and delay the process of renal tissue fibrosis is urgently needed in the clinical setting. Jieduquyuziyin prescription (JP) has been successfully used to treat SLE, but its potential mechanisms are not sufficiently understood. In this study, we treated MRL/lpr mice with JP for 8 weeks and treated human renal tubular epithelial cells (human kidney 2 (HK-2)) with drug-containing serum to observe the antagonistic effects of JP on inflammation and fibrosis, as well as to investigate the possible mechanisms. Results demonstrated that JP significantly reduced urinary protein and significantly improved pathological abnormalities. Metabolomics combined with ingenuity pathway analysis illustrated that the process of kidney injury in lupus mice may be closely related to farnesoid X receptor (FXR) pathway abnormalities. Microarray biomimetic analysis and LN patients indicated that FXR may play a protective role as an effective therapeutic target for LN and renal fibrosis. JP significantly increased the expression of FXR and inhibited the expression of its downstream targets, namely, nuclear transcription factor κB (NF-κB) and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), in the kidney of MRL/lpr mice and HK-2 cells, as confirmed by in vitro and in vivo experiments. In conclusion, JP may mediate the activation of renal FXR expression and inhibit NF-κB and α-SMA expression to exert anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic effects for LN prevention and treatment.
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13
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Jieduquyuzishen Prescription Attenuates Renal Fibrosis in MRL/lpr Mice via Inhibiting EMT and TGF- β1/Smad2/3 Pathway. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2022; 2022:4987323. [PMID: 35591863 PMCID: PMC9113882 DOI: 10.1155/2022/4987323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Jieduquyuziyin prescription (JP) has been used to treat lupus nephritis (LN) and its effectiveness in the treatment of LN has been clinically proven, but the underlying mechanisms have yet to be completely understood. This aim of this study was to clarify the efficacy of JP on the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of renal tubular epithelial cells and the molecular mechanisms of JP in MRL/lpr mice. In vivo, we observed the therapeutic actions of JP in MRL/lpr mice as well as its antifibrosis effect and potential mechanism. In vitro, we evaluated the role of JP in EMT and its possible mechanism through the EMT of human renal proximal tubular epithelial cells (HK-2) induced by transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1) and M2c macrophages. HK-2 cells were treated with JP-treated serum, and MRL/lpr mice were treated by JP for 8 weeks. The results showed that JP alleviated disease activity, improved renal function, decreased proteinuria, and improved renal injury and fibrosis in MRL/lpr mice. Furthermore, JP suppressed the activation of the TGF-β1/Smad2/3 signaling pathway, upregulated the E-cadherin levels, and downregulated the Vimentin and mesenchymal α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) levels in the kidney of MRL/lpr mice. JP was further found to prevent the TGF-β1 and M2c macrophages-induced EMT of HK-2 cells. Collectively, JP could alleviate the disease activity of MRL/lpr mice, improve renal function, and attenuate renal fibrosis, and its underlying mechanisms may be related to the inhibition of EMT and TGF-β1/Smad2/3 signaling pathway.
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14
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Hong J, Zhang M, He Y, Jin Y, He Q, Zhang Y, Shi X, Tian W, Wen C, Chen J. Qinghao-Biejia Herb Pair Alleviates Pristane-Induced Lupus-Like Disease and Associated Renal and Aortic Lesions in ApoE−/− Mice. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:897669. [PMID: 35571092 PMCID: PMC9100684 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.897669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Backgroud: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease involving multiple systems with a high prevalence of nephritis and atherosclerosis. Jieduquyuziyin prescription is a famous prescription with immune modulating and inflammation controlling effects, which is efficacious in the treatment of SLE. The most critical herbs in this prescription are Qinghao and Biejia. The aim of this study was to evaluate the therapeutic effect of Qinghao-Biejia herb hair (QB) on mice with SLE combined with atherosclerosis.Materials and Methods: The effect of QB (identification using UPLC-TOF-MS) was assessed in female ApoE−/− mice intraperitoneally injected with 0.5 ml of pristane. Serum autoantibodies and lipid metabolic parameters were tested every 4 weeks, and spleen index, serum inflammatory biomarkers, renal injury, and aortic injury were observed after 16 weeks. The expression of signaling pathway in kidney tissues was observed by RT-qPCR and Western blot.Results: The mice of QB-treated group exhibited a significant reduced serum autoantibodies level, urine protein, and renal immune complex deposition. QB treatment reduced the levels of inflammatory cytokines and improved the renal pathological changes. In addition, there was a reduction in aortic atheromatous plaque and some improvement in dyslipidemia. Moreover, QB suppressed the expression of HMGB1, TLR4, and MyD88 to some extent.Conclusion: The present study implied that QB has clear efficacy for the treatment of SLE combined with atherosclerosis, and that inhibition of the HMGB1/TLR4 signaling pathway may be one of the therapeutic targets of QB for SLE combined with atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaze Hong
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Miao Zhang
- College of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yuanfang He
- College of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yi Jin
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qiaoqi He
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaowei Shi
- College of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Weiyu Tian
- College of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chengping Wen
- College of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Juan Chen, ; Chengping Wen,
| | - Juan Chen
- College of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Juan Chen, ; Chengping Wen,
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15
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Bushen Jianpi Quyu Formula Alleviates Myelosuppression of an Immune-Mediated Aplastic Anemia Mouse Model via Inhibiting Expression of the PI3K/AKT/NF- κB Signaling Pathway. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2022; 2022:9033297. [PMID: 35463076 PMCID: PMC9023145 DOI: 10.1155/2022/9033297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Bushen Jianpi Quyu Formula (BSJPQYF), an experienced formula, has been used to treat aplastic anemia (AA) more than three decades. To determinate the effect of BSJPQYF on AA, we constructed an immune-mediated AA mouse model. All mice were divided into four groups: control, model, low dose (0.85 g/mL), and high dose (1.7 g/mL BSJPQYF) group. They were administered with different concentrations of BSJPQYF or normal saline for 14 days. Besides, components of BSJPQYF were analyzed by electrospray ionization and mass spectrometry (ESI-MS). Subsequently, mouse peripheral blood and femurs were collected, and bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) were isolated by fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS). Among them, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), and interferon-γ (IFN-γ) were measured by ELISA assay, PI3K, AKT, p-AKT, NF-κB, p-NF-κB, TNF-α, and cleaved caspase-3 proteins were detected by western blot. Compared with standard compounds, we identified three compounds of BSJPQYF, namely, icariin, kaempferol and tanshinone iia, as potentially effective compounds for the treatment of AA. Through an in vivo study, we found the administration of BSJPQYF in high dose for 14 days could significantly increase peripheral blood count and bone marrow (BM) cells, meanwhile decrease TNF-α, TGF-β, and IFN-γ levels. Besides, it could suppress the protein expression of PI3K and the phosphorylation of AKT and NF-κB to restrict the protein expression of TNF-α, eventually reduce the protein expression of cleaved caspase-3. This study demonstrated the therapeutic effects of BSJPQYF in AA, which could alleviate myelosuppression through inhibiting the expression of the PI3K/AKT/NF-κB signaling pathway.
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16
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Lubov JE, Jamison AS, Baltich Nelson B, Amudzi AA, Haas KN, Richmond JM. Medicinal Plant Extracts and Natural Compounds for the Treatment of Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus: A Systematic Review. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:802624. [PMID: 35431950 PMCID: PMC9008762 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.802624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) is a group of autoimmune connective tissue disorders that significantly impact quality of life. Current treatment approaches typically use antimalarial medications, though patients may become recalcitrant. Other treatment options include general immunosuppressants, highlighting the need for more and more targeted treatment options. The purpose of this systematic review was to identify potential compounds that could be repurposed for CLE from natural products since many rheumatologic drugs are derived from natural products, including antimalarials. This study was registered with PROSPERO, the international prospective register of systematic reviews (registration number CRD42021251048). We comprehensively searched Ovid Medline, Cochrane Library, and Scopus databases from inception to April 27th, 2021. These terms included cutaneous lupus erythematosus; general plant, fungus, bacteria terminology; selected plants and plant-derived products; selected antimalarials; and JAK inhibitors. Our search yielded 13,970 studies, of which 1,362 were duplicates. We screened 12,608 abstracts, found 12,043 to be irrelevant, and assessed 565 full-text studies for eligibility. Of these, 506 were excluded, and 59 studies were included in the data extraction. The ROBINS-I risk of bias assessment tool was used to assess studies that met our inclusion criteria. According to our findings, several natural compounds do reduce inflammation in lupus and other autoimmune skin diseases in studies using in vitro methods, mouse models, and clinical observational studies, along with a few randomized clinical trials. Our study has cataloged evidence in support of potential natural compounds and plant extracts that could serve as novel sources of active ingredients for the treatment of CLE. It is imperative that further studies in mice and humans are conducted to validate these findings. Systematic Review Registration:https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=251048.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janet E. Lubov
- Department of Dermatology, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
- Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine, Dayton, OH, United States
- *Correspondence: Janet E. Lubov, ; Jillian M. Richmond,
| | - Aisha S. Jamison
- Department of Dermatology, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
- Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine, Dayton, OH, United States
| | | | - Alice A. Amudzi
- Department of Dermatology, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - Kelly N. Haas
- Department of Microbiology, UMass Amherst, Amherst, MA, United States
| | - Jillian M. Richmond
- Department of Dermatology, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
- *Correspondence: Janet E. Lubov, ; Jillian M. Richmond,
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Ji LN, Wu S, Fu DQ, Fang SJ, Xie GQ, Fan YS, Bao J. Jieduquyuziyin Prescription alleviates hepatic gluconeogenesis via PI3K/Akt/PGC-1α pathway in glucocorticoid-induced MRL/lpr mice. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 284:114815. [PMID: 34763039 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2021.114815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Revised: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Jieduquyuziyin prescription (JP) is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula. According to both TCM theory and more than a decade of clinical practice, JP has been testified to be effective for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) treatment as an approved hospital prescription in China. AIM OF THE STUDY To determine the effect of JP on the treatment of SLE by glucocorticoid (GC) and to further examine the molecular mechanisms. MATERIALS AND METHODS We conducted in vivo experiments to estimate the effect of JP on hepatic gluconeogenesis in MRL/lpr mice treated with GC. Additionally, isoproterenol (ISO) induced hepatic gluconeogenesis model and GC-treated MRL/lpr mouse hepatocytes were carried out in vitro experiments to verify the effect of JP on gluconeogenesis. RESULTS The results showed that JP combined with GC could effectively alleviate the lupus symptoms in MRL/lpr mice and improve the pathological changes of the kidney and liver. And the combination of JP reduced the side effects caused by GC, which was related to the inhibition of GC-induced hepatic gluconeogenesis in MRL/lpr mice. Specifically, JP up-regulated the expression of glucocorticoid receptor (GR) α, phosphoinositide-3-kinase (PI3K) and Akt restrained by GC to reduce the production of forkhead box O1 (FoxO1), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma coactivator-1α (PGC-1α), and the gluconeogenic genes phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) and glucose-6-phosphatase (G6Pase). In vivo, the use of JP either alone or with GC could reduce spleen enlargement, high levels of serum antibodies, aggravated urine protein and renal pathological damage in MRL/lpr mice. Furthermore, the glucose content was reduced in the liver of MRL/lpr mice treated with JP, and the liver damage and steatosis were also alleviated. In vitro, the expressions of PI3K and Akt increased and the expressions of FoxO1, PGC-1α, PEPCK and G6Pase decreased after JP treatment in ISO-treated hepatocytes. Compared with MRL/MP mice, we found that JP could significantly inhibit the expression of gluconeogenesis in the hepatocytes of MRL/lpr mice induced by GC to a greater extent. CONCLUSIONS The therapeutic effect of JP on GC-induced is likely related to hepatic gluconeogenesis, which provides a new perspective to reveal the positive role of JP in SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Na Ji
- The First College of Clinical Medicine, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Shan Wu
- The First College of Clinical Medicine, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Dan-Qing Fu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Si-Jia Fang
- The First College of Clinical Medicine, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Guan-Qun Xie
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Yong-Sheng Fan
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Jie Bao
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.
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Yan H, Guo R, Chen W, Xi X, Wang L, Ma J, Li B. Associations of IRAK1 Gene Polymorphisms and mRNA Expression With NMOSD Risk in the Northern Chinese Han Population. Front Neurol 2021; 12:661791. [PMID: 34531808 PMCID: PMC8438328 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.661791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: Interleukin (IL)-1 receptor-associated kinase 1 (IRAK1) is a very important immunomodulatory gene for autoimmune diseases located on the X chromosome. However, there was little study about the correlation of IRAK1 functional single nucleotide polymorphisms with mRNA expression in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) patients. In this study, we aimed to investigate the plausible association of IRAK1 polymorphism, IRAK1 mRNA expression, and NMOSD risk in the northern Chinese Han population. Methods: Four loci of IRAK1 gene (rs1059702, rs7061789, rs1059703, and rs3027898) were genotyped using multiplex SNaPshot technique in 102 NMOSD patients and 213 healthy subjects. Allele, genotype, and haplotype frequencies were compared. Stratified analyses were conducted by age, sex, AQP4 status, and age of onset. IRAK1 mRNA levels in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells of 30 NMOSD patients (of active phase) and 15 healthy control subjects were detected using qPCR. The correlations between the SNP polymorphisms and mRNA expression levels of genes were tested using non-parametric tests. Results: The minor allele frequencies (MAF) of these four locis were significantly lower in NMOSD cases than that of the controls. The frequencies of rs1059703G/G genotype, rs1059702A/A genotype, rs3027898 C/C genotype, and rs7061789G/G genotype were higher in the case group than that of the control group. Haplotype analysis revealed that the major haplotype "G-A-C-G" (alleles in the order of SNPs rs1059703, rs1059702, rs3027898, and rs7061789), containing the risk alleles, conferred an adverse effect on NMOSD. The level of IRAK1mRNA was markedly higher in NMOSD when compared to the healthy control groups. The IRAK1mRNA levels of female patients with the major haplotype were significantly higher compared to those with other haplotypes and to the male patients with the same genotype. Conclusion: IRAK1 polymorphisms were highly correlated with NMOSD susceptibility. Its haplotype G-A-C-G (rs1059703-rs1059702-rs3027898-rs7061789) confers increasing the risk of NMOSD in female patients. The IRAK1 risk haplotype G-A-C-G upregulated IRAK1 mRNA expression in female NMOSD patients. Our study provides a novel insight into the molecular mechanism of the pathogenesis of NMOSD and reveals that IRAK1 is the potential mechanism-specific druggable target in NMOSD disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongjing Yan
- Department of Neurology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China.,Key Laboratory of Hebei Neurology, Shijiazhuang, China.,Department of Neurology, Handan First Hospital, Handan, China
| | - Ruoyi Guo
- Department of Neurology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China.,Key Laboratory of Hebei Neurology, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Weifeng Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Central Hospital of Handan, Handan, China
| | - Xutao Xi
- Department of Neurology, Handan First Hospital, Handan, China
| | - Lianchang Wang
- Department of Neurology, Handan First Hospital, Handan, China
| | - Jianxun Ma
- Department of Neurology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China.,Key Laboratory of Hebei Neurology, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Bin Li
- Department of Neurology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China.,Key Laboratory of Hebei Neurology, Shijiazhuang, China
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Fang H, Deng X, Disteche CM. X-factors in human disease: Impact of gene content and dosage regulation. Hum Mol Genet 2021; 30:R285-R295. [PMID: 34387327 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddab221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The gene content of the X and Y chromosomes has dramatically diverged during evolution. The ensuing dosage imbalance within the genome of males and females has led to unique chromosome-wide regulatory mechanisms with significant and sex-specific impacts on X-linked gene expression. X inactivation or silencing of most genes on one X chromosome chosen at random in females profoundly affects the manifestation of X-linked diseases, as males inherit a single maternal allele, while females express maternal and paternal alleles in a mosaic manner. An additional complication is the existence of genes that escape X inactivation and thus are ubiquitously expressed from both alleles in females. The mosaic nature of X-linked gene expression and the potential for escape can vary between individuals, tissues, cell types, and stages of life. Our understanding of the specialized nature of X-linked genes and of the multilayer epigenetic regulation that influence their expression throughout the organism has been helped by molecular studies conducted by tissue-specific and single-cell-specific approaches. In turn, the definition of molecular events that control X silencing has helped develop new approaches for the treatment of some X-linked disorders. This review focuses on the peculiarities of the X chromosome genetic content and epigenetic regulation in shaping the manifestation of congenital and acquired X-linked disorders in a sex-specific manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- He Fang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology
| | | | - Christine M Disteche
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology.,Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
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