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Li W, Tang X, Liu H, Liu K, Tian Z, Zhao Y. Protective effect of 1,3-dioleoyl-2-palmitoylglycerol against DSS-induced colitis via modulating gut microbiota and maintaining intestinal epithelial barrier integrity. Food Funct 2024; 15:8700-8711. [PMID: 39076044 DOI: 10.1039/d4fo02344g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/31/2024]
Abstract
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a challenging condition to cure that can occur at any age. The gut microbiome and intestinal epithelial barrier play a crucial role in the development of IBD. 1,3-Dioleoyl-2-palmitoylglycerol (OPO), the predominant triglyceride in breast milk, is a structural lipid with multiple physiological functions. However, the protective effect of OPO on IBD and its underlying mechanism remains unclear. This study showed that oral administration of OPO markedly ameliorated dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis phenotypes. OPO treatment reduced inflammation levels by suppressing the TLR4-MyD88-NF-κB signaling pathway in colitis mice. Furthermore, OPO treatment improved intestinal epithelial barrier function via promoting epithelial cell proliferation and differentiation, inhibiting cell apoptosis, and upregulating tight junction protein expression. The 16S rRNA gene sequencing revealed that OPO treatment restored microbial alpha diversity and reshaped the microbiota of colitis mice. Therefore, our study revealed that OPO exhibited a protective role in DSS-induced colitis via maintaining intestinal epithelial barrier integrity and modulating gut microbiota. Our results highlight that OPO could be used as effective supplements for individuals with IBD or intestinal dysfunctions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wusun Li
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Product Quality and Safety, Institute of Quality Standards & Testing Technology for Agro-Products of Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China.
| | - Xiaoyan Tang
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Product Quality and Safety, Institute of Quality Standards & Testing Technology for Agro-Products of Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China.
| | - Hui Liu
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Product Quality and Safety, Institute of Quality Standards & Testing Technology for Agro-Products of Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China.
| | - Ke Liu
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Product Quality and Safety, Institute of Quality Standards & Testing Technology for Agro-Products of Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China.
| | - Zhiqing Tian
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Product Quality and Safety, Institute of Quality Standards & Testing Technology for Agro-Products of Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China.
| | - Yujie Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Product Quality and Safety, Institute of Quality Standards & Testing Technology for Agro-Products of Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China.
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He Z, Xu X, Chen Y, Huang Y, Wu B, Xu Z, Du J, Zhou Q, Cheng X. Integrated network pharmacology and bioinformatics to identify therapeutic targets and molecular mechanisms of Huangkui Lianchang Decoction for ulcerative colitis treatment. BMC Complement Med Ther 2024; 24:280. [PMID: 39044211 PMCID: PMC11267728 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-024-04590-3] [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: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Huangkui Lianchang Decoction (HLD) is a traditional Chinese herbal formula for treating ulcerative colitis (UC). However, its mechanism of action remains poorly understood. The Study aims to validate the therapeutic effect of HLD on UC and its mechanism by integrating network pharmacology, bioinformatics, and experimental validation. METHODS UC targets were collected by databases and GSE19101. The active ingredients in HLD were detected by ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. PubChem collected targets of active ingredients. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks were established with UC-related targets. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia (KEGG) of Genes and Genomes enrichment were analyzed for the mechanism of HLD treatment of UC and validated by the signaling pathways of HLD. Effects of HLD on UC were verified using dextran sulfate sodium (DDS)-induced UC mice experiments. RESULTS A total of 1883 UC-related targets were obtained from the GSE10191 dataset, 1589 from the database, and 1313 matching HLD-related targets, for a total of 94 key targets. Combined with PPI, GO, and KEGG network analyses, the signaling pathways were enriched to obtain IL-17, Toll-like receptor, NF-κB, and tumor necrosis factor signaling pathways. In animal experiments, HLD improved the inflammatory response of UC and reduced UC-induced pro-inflammatory factors such as Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha (TNF-α), interleukin 1β (IL-1β), and interleukin 6 (IL-6). HLD suppressed proteins TLR4, MyD88, and NF-κB expression. CONCLUSIONS This study systematically dissected the molecular mechanism of HLD for the treatment of UC using a network pharmacology approach. Further animal verification experiments revealed that HLD inhibited inflammatory responses and improved intestinal barrier function through the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zongqi He
- Kunshan Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Kunshan, 215300, PR China
| | - Xiang Xu
- Zhangjiagang TCM Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Zhangjiagang, 215600, PR China
| | - Yugen Chen
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, No. 155, Hanzhong Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210004, PR China
| | - Yuyu Huang
- Kunshan Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Kunshan, 215300, PR China
| | - Bensheng Wu
- Kunshan Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Kunshan, 215300, PR China
| | - Zhizhong Xu
- Kunshan Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Kunshan, 215300, PR China
| | - Jun Du
- Kunshan Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Kunshan, 215300, PR China
| | - Qing Zhou
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, No. 155, Hanzhong Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210004, PR China.
| | - Xudong Cheng
- Kunshan Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Kunshan, 215300, PR China.
- Pharmacy Department, Suzhou TCM Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, No. 18, Yang Su Road, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, 215009, PR China.
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Kim H, Jeong S, Kim SW, Kim HJ, Kim DY, Yook TH, Yang G. Indigo Naturalis in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: mechanisms of action and insights from clinical trials. J Pharmacopuncture 2024; 27:59-69. [PMID: 38948310 PMCID: PMC11194518 DOI: 10.3831/kpi.2024.27.2.59] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2024] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
This study investigates the therapeutic potential of Indigo Naturalis (IN) in treating a Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). The objective is to comprehensively examine the effects and pharmacological mechanisms of IN on IBD, assessing its potential as an novel treatment for IBD. Analysis of 11 selected papers is conducted to understand the effects of IN, focusing on compounds like indirubin, isatin, indigo, and tryptanthrin. This study evaluates their impact on Disease Activity Index (DAI) score, colon length, mucosal damage, and macrophage infiltration in Dextran Sulfate Sodium (DSS)-induced colitis mice. Additionally, It investigate into the anti-inflammatory mechanisms, including Aryl hydrocarbon Receptor (AhR) pathway activation, Nuclear Factor kappa B (NF-κB)/nod-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3)/Interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β) inhibition, and modulation of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)/myeloid differentiation primary response 88 (MYD88)/NF-κB and Mitogen Activated Protein Kinase (MAPK) pathways. Immunomodulatory effects on T helper 17 (Th17)/regulatory T cell (Treg cell) balance and Glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta (GSK3-β) expression are also explored. Furthermore, the study addresses the role of IN in restoring intestinal microbiota diversity, reducing pathogenic bacteria, and increasing beneficial bacteria. The findings reveal that IN, particularly indirubin and indigo, demonstrates significant improvements in DAI score, colon length, mucosal damage, and macrophage infiltration in DSS-induced colitis mice. The anti-inflammatory effects are attributed to the activation of the AhR pathway, inhibition of inflammatory pathways, and modulation of immune responses. These results exhibit the potential of IN in IBD treatment. Notably, the restoration of intestinal microbiota diversity and balance further supports its efficacy. IN emerges as a promising and effective treatment for IBD, demonstrating anti-inflammatory effects and positive outcomes in preclinical studies. However, potential side effects necessitate further investigation for safe therapeutic development. The study underscores the need for future research to explore a broader range of active ingredients in IN to enhance therapeutic efficacy and safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyeonjin Kim
- Department of Korean Medicine, College of Korea Medicine, Woosuk University, Jeonju, Republic of Korea
| | - Soohyun Jeong
- Department of Korean Medicine, College of Korea Medicine, Woosuk University, Jeonju, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Wook Kim
- Department of Korean Medicine, College of Korea Medicine, Woosuk University, Jeonju, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyung-Jin Kim
- Department of Korean Medicine, College of Korea Medicine, Woosuk University, Jeonju, Republic of Korea
| | - Dae Yong Kim
- Department of Korean Medicine, College of Korea Medicine, Woosuk University, Jeonju, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae Han Yook
- Department of Korean Medicine, College of Korea Medicine, Woosuk University, Jeonju, Republic of Korea
| | - Gabsik Yang
- Department of Korean Medicine, College of Korea Medicine, Woosuk University, Jeonju, Republic of Korea
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Di Y, Song Y, Xu K, Wang Q, Zhang L, Liu Q, Zhang M, Liu X, Wang Y. Chicoric Acid Alleviates Colitis via Targeting the Gut Microbiota Accompanied by Maintaining Intestinal Barrier Integrity and Inhibiting Inflammatory Responses. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2024; 72:6276-6288. [PMID: 38485738 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.3c08363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
Polyphenols have shown great potential to prevent ulcerative colitis. As a natural plant polyphenol, chicoric acid (CA) has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This study explored the intervention effects and potential mechanism of CA on dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced colitis mice. The results showed that CA alleviated the symptoms of colitis and maintained the intestinal barrier integrity. CA significantly downregulated the mRNA expression levels of inflammatory factors including IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α, IFN-γ, COX-2, and iNOS. In addition, CA modulated the gut microbiota by improving the microbial diversity, reducing the abundance of Gammaproteobacteriaand Clostridium_XI and increasing the abundance ofBarnesiellaandLachnospiraceae. Further fecal microbiota transplantation experiments showed that FM from CA donor mice significantly alleviated the symptoms of colitis, verifying the key role of gut microbiota. These results indicate that CA effectively relieves DSS-induced colitis via targeting gut microbiota along with preserving intestinal barrier function and suppressing inflammatory responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Di
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, PR China
| | - Yi Song
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, PR China
| | - Kejia Xu
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, PR China
| | - Qianxu Wang
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, PR China
| | - Li Zhang
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, PR China
| | - Qian Liu
- College of Food Science and Technology, Northwest University, Xi'an 710069, PR China
| | - Min Zhang
- China Food Flavor and Nutrition Health Innovation Center, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing 100048, PR China
| | - Xuebo Liu
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, PR China
| | - Yutang Wang
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, PR China
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Liu B, Zhang J, Wang X, Ye W, Yao J. Exploration of the Mechanisms Underlying Yu's Enema Formula in Treating Ulcerative Colitis by Blocking the RhoA/ROCK Pathway based on Network Pharmacology, High-performance Liquid Chromatography Analysis, and Experimental Verification. Curr Pharm Des 2024; 30:1085-1102. [PMID: 38523541 DOI: 10.2174/0113816128290586240315071044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The traditional Chinese medicine formula, Yu's Enema Formula (YEF), has demonstrated potential in the treatment of Ulcerative Colitis (UC). OBJECTIVE This study aimed to unveil the anti-UC mechanisms of YEF. METHODS Utilizing public databases, we obtained YEF and UC-related targets. GO and KEGG analyses were conducted via clusterProfiler and Reactome. The STRING database facilitated the construction of the PPI network, and hub targets were selected using cytoHubba. We used R software for differential expression and correlation analyses, and molecular docking was performed with PyMOL and AutoDock. HPLC analysis identified the compounds in YEF. For in vivo validation, a UC rat model was employed. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION 495 YEF-UC overlapping targets were identified. GO and KEGG analyses indicated enrichment in exogenous stimuli response, peptide response, positive MAPK cascade regulation, interleukin- related signaling, and the TLR4 cascade. Hub targets included CTNNB1, JUN, MAPK1, MAPK3, SRC, STAT3, TLR4, TP53, and RELA, which were often interconnected. Molecular docking revealed quercetin's strong binding affinity with CTNNB1, MAPK1, MAPK3, SRC, STAT3, TLR4, and TP53, consistent with HPLC analysis. In vivo experiments suggested that YEF has the potential to alleviate UC symptoms and protect the intestinal mucosal barrier by inhibiting the RhoA/ROCK pathway. CONCLUSION YEF may safeguard the intestinal mucosal barrier in UC by targeting CTNNB1, MAPK1, MAPK3, SRC, STAT3, TLR4, and TP53, while blocking the RhoA/ROCK pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Binbin Liu
- Department of Digestion, Hangzhou TCM Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Department of Digestion, Hangzhou TCM Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaoqi Wang
- Department of Digestion, Hangzhou TCM Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Wei Ye
- Department of Digestion, Hangzhou TCM Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jiaming Yao
- Department of Digestion, Hangzhou TCM Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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Li H, Ruan J, Huang J, Yang D, Yu H, Wu Y, Zhang Y, Wang T. Pomegranate ( Punica granatum L.) and Its Rich Ellagitannins as Potential Inhibitors in Ulcerative Colitis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:17538. [PMID: 38139367 PMCID: PMC10744232 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242417538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Ulcerative colitis, an immune-mediated inflammatory disease of the gastrointestinal tract, places a significant financial burden on patients and the healthcare system. Recently, reviews of the pomegranate and the abundant medicinal applications of its ellagitannins, as well as its pharmacological action, phytochemicals, metabolism, and pharmacokinetics, have been completed. However, summaries on their anti-ulcerative colitis effects are lacking. Numerous preclinical animal investigations and clinical human trial reports demonstrated the specific therapeutic effects of pomegranate and the effect of its ellagitannins against ulcerative colitis. According to the literature collected by Sci-finder and PubMed databases over the past 20 years, this is the first review that has compiled references regarding how the rich ellagitannins found in pomegranate have altered the ulcerative colitis. It was suggested that the various parts of pomegranates and their rich ellagitannins (especially their primary components, punicalagin, and ellagic acid) can inhibit oxidant and inflammatory processes, regulate the intestinal barrier and flora, and provide an anti-ulcerative colitis resource through dietary management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huimin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Component-Based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 10 Poyanghu Road, West Area, Tuanbo New Town, Jinghai District, Tianjin 301617, China; (H.L.); (J.R.); (J.H.); (H.Y.); (Y.W.)
| | - Jingya Ruan
- State Key Laboratory of Component-Based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 10 Poyanghu Road, West Area, Tuanbo New Town, Jinghai District, Tianjin 301617, China; (H.L.); (J.R.); (J.H.); (H.Y.); (Y.W.)
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of TCM Chemistry and Analysis, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 10 Poyanghu Road, West Area, Tuanbo New Town, Jinghai District, Tianjin 301617, China;
| | - Jiayan Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Component-Based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 10 Poyanghu Road, West Area, Tuanbo New Town, Jinghai District, Tianjin 301617, China; (H.L.); (J.R.); (J.H.); (H.Y.); (Y.W.)
| | - Dingshan Yang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of TCM Chemistry and Analysis, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 10 Poyanghu Road, West Area, Tuanbo New Town, Jinghai District, Tianjin 301617, China;
| | - Haiyang Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Component-Based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 10 Poyanghu Road, West Area, Tuanbo New Town, Jinghai District, Tianjin 301617, China; (H.L.); (J.R.); (J.H.); (H.Y.); (Y.W.)
| | - Yuzheng Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Component-Based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 10 Poyanghu Road, West Area, Tuanbo New Town, Jinghai District, Tianjin 301617, China; (H.L.); (J.R.); (J.H.); (H.Y.); (Y.W.)
| | - Yi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Component-Based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 10 Poyanghu Road, West Area, Tuanbo New Town, Jinghai District, Tianjin 301617, China; (H.L.); (J.R.); (J.H.); (H.Y.); (Y.W.)
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of TCM Chemistry and Analysis, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 10 Poyanghu Road, West Area, Tuanbo New Town, Jinghai District, Tianjin 301617, China;
| | - Tao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Component-Based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 10 Poyanghu Road, West Area, Tuanbo New Town, Jinghai District, Tianjin 301617, China; (H.L.); (J.R.); (J.H.); (H.Y.); (Y.W.)
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of TCM Chemistry and Analysis, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 10 Poyanghu Road, West Area, Tuanbo New Town, Jinghai District, Tianjin 301617, China;
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Dong WR, Li YY, Liu TT, Zhou G, Chen YX. Ethyl acetate extract of Terminalia chebula alleviates DSS-induced ulcerative colitis in C57BL/6 mice. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1229772. [PMID: 38152693 PMCID: PMC10751924 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1229772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: The Chinese pharmacopeia records Terminalia chebula as effective in treating prolonged diarrhea and dysentery, blood in the stool, and prolapse. Modern pharmacological research proves it has multiple pharmacological benefits, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective, and other properties. Objectives: This study aims to clarify the role of Terminalia chebula's ethyl acetate extract (TCEA) on ulcerative colitis (UC) induced by dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) in mice, as well as explore the potential mechanism of action. Materials and methods: The variation of different extracts of T. chebula was detected using the HPLC technique, and the main components in TCEA were identified. DSS was used to establish a mouse model to mimic the physiological state of UC in humans; the alleviating effect of TCEA and positive control 5-ASA on UC mice were evaluated by gavage treatment. Disease progression was assessed by monitoring the mouse's weight change and disease activity index (DAI). The changes in colon tissue were estimated by measuring colon length, HE, and AB-PAS staining and detecting oxidative stress parameters. The results draw from Western blot and real-time PCR showed the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB pathway may involve in the anti-inflammatory activity of TCEA. Furthermore, the gut flora sequencing technique was employed to monitor the differentiation of intestinal microbiota of mice induced by DSS and TCEA treatment. Results: TCEA significantly lowered DAI scores and inhibited the weight loss and colonic shortening induced by DSS. The colon histomorphology and oxidative stress levels were enhanced after TCEA treatment compared with DSS induced UC group. TCEA attenuated the inflammatory response by regulating TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB pathway activation. Intestinal flora sequencing showed that DSS and TCEA greatly impacted mice's composition and diversity of intestinal microorganisms. But TCEA increased the abundance of Bacteroidetes and decreased the abundance of Firmicutes and Proteobacteria compared with the DSS group, which contributed a lot to returning the intestinal flora to a balanced state. Conclusion: This study confirms the alleviating effect of TCEA on UC and provides new ideas for developing TCEA into a new drug to treat UC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Yu-Xin Chen
- Key Laboratory of Fermentation Engineering (Ministry of Education), Cooperative Innovation Center of Industrial Fermentation (Ministry of Education and Hubei Province), School of Biological Engineering and Food, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, China
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Fan A, Hou BL, Tang Z, Wang T, Zhang D, Liang Y, Wang Z. Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry-Based Metabolomics Analysis of Indigo Naturalis Treatment of Ulcerative Colitis in Mice. J Med Food 2023; 26:877-889. [PMID: 38010862 DOI: 10.1089/jmf.2023.k.0132] [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] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Ulcerative colitis (UC), often known as UC, is an inflammatory disease of the intestines that has frequent and long-lasting flare-ups. It is unknown precisely how the traditional Chinese drug Indigo Naturalis (IN) heals inflammatory bowel disease, despite its long-standing use in China and Japan. Finding new metabolite biomarkers linked to UC could improve our understanding of the disease, speed up the diagnostic process, and provide insight into how certain drugs work to treat the condition. Our work is designed to use a metabolomic method to analyze potential alterations in endogenous substances and their impact on metabolic pathways in a mouse model of UC. To determine which biomarkers and metabolisms are more frequently connected with IN's effects on UC, liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry analysis of the serum metabolomics of UC mice and normal mice was performed. The outcomes demonstrated that IN boosted the health of UC mice and reduced the severity of their metabolic dysfunction. In the UC model, it was also found that IN changed the way 17 biomarkers and 3 metabolisms functioned.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anqi Fan
- Shaanxi Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xian Yang, China
- College of Pharmacy, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xian Yang, China
| | - Bao-Long Hou
- Shaanxi Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xian Yang, China
| | - Zhishu Tang
- Shaanxi Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xian Yang, China
| | - Ting Wang
- Shaanxi Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xian Yang, China
- College of Pharmacy, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xian Yang, China
| | - Dongbo Zhang
- Shaanxi Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xian Yang, China
| | - Yanni Liang
- Shaanxi Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xian Yang, China
| | - Zheng Wang
- Shaanxi Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xian Yang, China
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Cui Y, Hu J, Li Y, Au R, Fang Y, Cheng C, Xu F, Li W, Wu Y, Zhu L, Shen H. Integrated Network Pharmacology, Molecular Docking and Animal Experiment to Explore the Efficacy and Potential Mechanism of Baiyu Decoction Against Ulcerative Colitis by Enema. Drug Des Devel Ther 2023; 17:3453-3472. [PMID: 38024534 PMCID: PMC10680469 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s432268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Baiyu Decoction (BYD), a clinical prescription of traditional Chinese medicine, has been proven to be valuable for treating ulcerative colitis (UC) by enema. However, the mechanism of BYD against UC remains unclear. Purpose A combination of bioinformatics methods including network pharmacology and molecular docking and animal experiments were utilized to investigate the potential mechanism of BYD in the treatment of UC. Materials and Methods Firstly, the representative compounds of each herb in BYD were detected by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Subsequently, we predicted the core targets and potential pathways of BYD for treating UC through network pharmacology. And rat colitis model was established with dextran sodium sulfate. UC rats were subjected to BYD enema administration, during which we recorded body weight changes, disease activity index, and colon length to assess the effectiveness of BYD. Besides, quantitative real-time PCR, western blotting, ELISA and immunofluorescence were used to detect intestinal inflammatory factors, intestinal barrier biomarkers and TOLL-like receptor pathway in rats. Finally, the core components and targets of BYD were subjected to molecular docking so as to further validate the results of network pharmacology. Results A total of 41 active compositions and 203 targets related to BYD-UC were subjected to screening. The results of bioinformatics analysis showed that quercetin and kaempferol may be the main compounds. Additionally, AKT1, IL-6, TP53, TNF and IL-1β were regarded as potential therapeutic targets. KEGG results explained that TOLL-like receptor pathway might play a pivotal role in BYD protecting against UC. In addition, animal experiments and molecular docking validated the network pharmacology results. BYD enema treatment can reduce body weight loss, lower disease activity index score, reverse colon shortening, relieve intestinal inflammation, protect intestinal barrier, and inhibit TOLL-like receptor pathway in UC rats. Besides, molecular docking suggested that quercetin and kaempferol docked well with TLR4, AKT1, IL-6, TP53. Conclusion Utilizing network pharmacology, animal studies, and molecular docking, enema therapy with BYD was confirmed to have anti-UC efficacy by alleviating intestinal inflammation, protecting the intestinal barrier, and inhibiting the TOLL-like receptor pathway. Researchers should focus not only on oral medications but also on the rectal administration of medications in furtherance of the cure of ulcerative colitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Cui
- Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, People’s Republic of China
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jingyi Hu
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yanan Li
- Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, People’s Republic of China
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ryan Au
- Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, People’s Republic of China
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yulai Fang
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Cheng Cheng
- Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Feng Xu
- Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, People’s Republic of China
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Weiyang Li
- Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, People’s Republic of China
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yuguang Wu
- Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, People’s Republic of China
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lei Zhu
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hong Shen
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, People’s Republic of China
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10
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Zong Y, Meng J, Mao T, Han Q, Zhang P, Shi L. Repairing the intestinal mucosal barrier of traditional Chinese medicine for ulcerative colitis: a review. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1273407. [PMID: 37942490 PMCID: PMC10628444 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1273407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Damage to the intestinal mucosal barrier play an important role in the pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis (UC). Discovering the key regulators and repairing the disturbed barrier are crucial for preventing and treating UC. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been proved to be effective on treating UC and has exhibited its role in repairing the intestinal mucosal barrier. We summarized the evidence of TCM against UC by protecting and repairing the physical barrier, chemical barrier, immune barrier, and biological barrier. Mechanisms of increasing intestinal epithelial cells, tight junction proteins, and mucins, promoting intestinal stem cell proliferation, restoring the abundance of the intestinal microbiota, and modulating the innate and adaptive immunity in gut, were all involved in. Some upstream proteins and signaling pathways have been elucidated. Based on the existing problems, we suggested future studies paying attention to patients' samples and animal models of UC and TCM syndromes, conducting rescue experiments, exploring more upstream regulators, and adopting new technical methods. We hope this review can provide a theoretical basis and novel ideas for clarifying the mechanisms of TCM against UC via repairing the intestinal mucosal barrier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yichen Zong
- Second Clinical Medical College, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Meng
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine Affiliated Dongfang Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Tangyou Mao
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine Affiliated Dongfang Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Qiang Han
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Health Service Center of Beiyuan Community, Beijing, China
| | - Peng Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine Affiliated Dongfang Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Lei Shi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine Affiliated Dongfang Hospital, Beijing, China
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11
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Liu L, Chen X, Zhang C, Deng J, Xiao H, Rao Y. Lactiplantibacillus biofilm and planktonic cells ameliorate ulcerative colitis in mice via immunoregulatory activity, gut metabolism and microbiota modulation. Food Funct 2023; 14:9181-9193. [PMID: 37772319 DOI: 10.1039/d3fo02733c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
Since ulcerative colitis (UC) has become a global concern, Lactiplantibacillus is considered an effective, safe strategy for alleviating intestinal inflammation in UC patients. The most advanced fourth-generation probiotics involve beneficial bacteria enclosed in biofilms with multiple advantages. However, the difference between the effect of probiotic biofilm and planktonic cells on UC remains unclear. This study indicated that the biofilm cells of Lactiplantibacillus LR-1 were more successful in increasing the colon length, relieving intestinal inflammation, and repairing colon damage, regulating the host immunity than the planktonic cells. Furthermore, the LR-1 biofilm cells helped prevent a decline in the Eubacterium hallii and Salinimicrobium levels and increased Kocuria and Candidatus Bacilloplasma abundance. Untargeted metabolomics analysis results suggested that the LR-1 biofilm was more successful in promoting the intestinal metabolism recovery of the UC mice than the planktonic cells. Finally, the phenotype-microbiota-metabolism network was conducted to reveal the relationship between these factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, College of Veterinary Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, China
- School of Food Science and Bioengineering, Xihua University, Chengdu, 610039, China.
| | - Xing Chen
- School of Food Science and Bioengineering, Xihua University, Chengdu, 610039, China.
| | - Chengyi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, College of Veterinary Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, China
- School of Food Science and Bioengineering, Xihua University, Chengdu, 610039, China.
| | - Jia Deng
- State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, College of Veterinary Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, China
- School of Food Science and Bioengineering, Xihua University, Chengdu, 610039, China.
| | - Hang Xiao
- Department of Food Science, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts, 01003, USA.
| | - Yu Rao
- School of Food Science and Bioengineering, Xihua University, Chengdu, 610039, China.
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12
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Yang X, Tang J, Su J, Yang X, Yang M, Yang X, Ji Q, He Y, Han L, Zhang D. High-Quality Indigo Naturalis Obtained with Automatic Foam Separation. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2023; 15:43272-43281. [PMID: 37669429 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c04112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/07/2023]
Abstract
Indigo Naturalis is not only an ancient plant dye but also a famous herbal medicine with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties. In traditional processes, thousands of manual stirring separate the high-quality Indigo Naturalis from the crude pulp system. However, this method is time-consuming and labor-intensive, resulting in an unstable quality and low yield, which cannot meet the requirements of modern industrial production. In this study, foam-separation technology was used to increase the industrial applicability of high-quality Indigo Naturalis. The process parameters were optimized based on the content of active ingredients, skin irritation effects, and antioxidative stress activity. The results showed that the optimal process of the foam separation achieved the liquid level difference of 40 cm and the foaming intensity of 0.35 MPa. Compared with the original sample, the indigo and indirubin contents in purified Indigo Naturalis were 1.6 and 3 times higher, the total ash content decreased from 86 to 70%, the pH value decreased from 12.18 to 9.71, and the leachate doubled. Animal experiments suggested the significantly reduced irritation (p < 0.01) and enhanced antioxidative stress activity (p < 0.01) of Indigo Naturalis after foam separation. Therefore, the foam-separation equipment developed in this study enabled the refinement of active ingredients in Indigo Naturalis, which greatly improved the production efficiency and quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, PR China
| | - Jun Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, PR China
| | - Juan Su
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, PR China
| | - Xin Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, PR China
| | - Ming Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Innovation Medicine and High Efficiency and Energy Saving Pharmaceutical Equipment, Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330006, PR China
| | - Xiangbo Yang
- Yaan Xunkang Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd, Yaan, Sichuan 625000, PR China
| | - Qisen Ji
- Yaan Xunkang Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd, Yaan, Sichuan 625000, PR China
| | - Yanan He
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, PR China
| | - Li Han
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, PR China
| | - Dingkun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, PR China
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13
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Shan J, Liu S, Liu H, Yuan J, Lin J. Mechanism of Qingchang Suppository on repairing the intestinal mucosal barrier in ulcerative colitis. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1221849. [PMID: 37675045 PMCID: PMC10478270 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1221849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a refractory inflammatory bowel disease, and the outcomes of conventional therapies of UC, including 5-aminosalicylic acid, glucocorticoids, immunosuppressants, and biological agents, are not satisfied with patients and physicians with regard to adverse reactions and financial burden. The abnormality of the intestinal mucosal barrier in the pathogenesis of UC was verified. Qingchang Suppository (QCS) is an herbal preparation and is effective in treating ulcerative proctitis. The mechanism of QCS and its active ingredients have not been concluded especially in mucosal healing. This review elucidated the potential mechanism of QCS from the intestinal mucosal barrier perspective to help exploring future QCS research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingyi Shan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Suxian Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Haoyue Liu
- Department of Intensive Care Unit, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianye Yuan
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiang Lin
- Department of Gastroenterology, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
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14
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Subramaniam S, Kamath S, Ariaee A, Prestidge C, Joyce P. The impact of common pharmaceutical excipients on the gut microbiota. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2023; 20:1297-1314. [PMID: 37307224 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2023.2223937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Increasing attention is being afforded to understanding the bidirectional relationships that exist between oral medications and the gut microbiota, in an attempt to optimize pharmacokinetic performance and mitigate unwanted side effects. While a wealth of research has investigated the direct impact of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) on the gut microbiota, the interactions between inactive pharmaceutical ingredients (i.e. excipients) and the gut microbiota are commonly overlooked, despite excipients typically representing over 90% of the final dosage form. AREAS COVERED Known excipient-gut microbiota interactions for various classes of inactive pharmaceutical ingredients, including solubilizing agents, binders, fillers, sweeteners, and color additives, are reviewed in detail. EXPERT OPINION Clear evidence indicates that orally administered pharmaceutical excipients directly interact with gut microbes and can either positively or negatively impact gut microbiota diversity and composition. However, these relationships and mechanisms are commonly overlooked during drug formulation, despite the potential for excipient-microbiota interactions to alter drug pharmacokinetics and interfere with host metabolic health. The insights derived from this review will inform pharmaceutical scientists with the necessary design considerations for mitigating potential adverse pharmacomicrobiomic interactions when formulating oral dosage forms, ultimately providing clear avenues for improving therapeutic safety and efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Santhni Subramaniam
- UniSA Clinical & Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Srinivas Kamath
- UniSA Clinical & Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Amin Ariaee
- UniSA Clinical & Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Clive Prestidge
- UniSA Clinical & Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Paul Joyce
- UniSA Clinical & Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
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15
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Chen H, Li S, Pan B, Liu K, Yu H, Ma C, Qi H, Zhang Y, Huang X, Ouyang D, Xie Z. Qing-Kai-Ling oral liquid alleviated pneumonia via regulation of intestinal flora and metabolites in rats. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1194401. [PMID: 37362920 PMCID: PMC10288885 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1194401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Qing-Kai-Ling (QKL) oral liquid, evolving from a classical Chinese formula known as An-Gong-Niu-Huang pills, is a well-established treatment for pneumonia with its mechanism remaining muddled. Studies have shown that the regulation of both intestinal flora and host-microbiota co-metabolism may contribute to preventing and treating pneumonia. The study aimed to investigate the potential mechanism by which QKL alleviates pneumonia from the perspective of 'microbiota-metabolites-host' interaction. Methods We evaluated the therapeutic effects of QKL on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced pneumonia rats. To explore the protective mechanism of QKL treatment, a multi-omics analysis that included 16S rDNA sequencing for disclosing the key intestinal flora, the fecal metabolome to discover the differential metabolites, and whole transcriptome sequencing of lung tissue to obtain the differentially expressed genes was carried out. Then, a Spearman correlation was employed to investigate the association between the intestinal flora, the fecal metabolome and inflammation-related indices. Results The study demonstrated that pneumonia symptoms were significantly attenuated in QKL-treated rats, including decreased TNF-α, NO levels and increased SOD level. Furthermore, QKL was effective in alleviating pneumonia and provided protection equivalent to that of the positive drug dexamethasone. Compared with the Model group, QKL treatment significantly increased the richness and αlpha diversity of intestinal flora, and restored multiple intestinal genera (e.g., Bifidobacterium, Ruminococcus_torques_group, Dorea, Mucispirillum, and Staphylococcus) that were correlated with inflammation-related indices. Interestingly, the intestinal flora demonstrated a strong correlation with several metabolites impacted by QKL. Furthermore, metabolome and transcriptome analyses showed that enrichment of several host-microbiota co-metabolites [arachidonic acid, 8,11,14-eicosatrienoic acid, LysoPC (20:0/0:0), LysoPA (18:0e/0:0), cholic acid, 7-ketodeoxycholic acid and 12-ketodeoxycholic acid] levels and varying lung gene (Pla2g2a, Pla2g5, Alox12e, Cyp4a8, Ccl19, and Ccl21) expression were observed in the QKL group. Moreover, these metabolites and genes were involved in arachidonic acid metabolism and inflammation-related pathways. Conclusion Our findings indicated that QKL could potentially modulate intestinal flora dysbiosis, improve host-microbiota co-metabolism dysregulation and regulate gene expression in the lungs, thereby mitigating LPS-induced pneumonia in rats. The study may provide new ideas for the clinical application and further development of QKL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongying Chen
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Guangzhou Baiyunshan Mingxing Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Guangzhou, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Pharmacogenetics, Xiangya Hospital, Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Siju Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Biyan Pan
- Guangzhou Baiyunshan Mingxing Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kun Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Hansheng Yu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Chong Ma
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Huiyuan Qi
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yuefeng Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xinyi Huang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Dongsheng Ouyang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Pharmacogenetics, Xiangya Hospital, Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory for Bioanalysis of Complex Matrix Samples, Changsha, China
| | - Zhiyong Xie
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
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16
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Ikeda Y, Matsuda S. Gut Protective Effect from D-Methionine or Butyric Acid against DSS and Carrageenan-Induced Ulcerative Colitis. Molecules 2023; 28:4392. [PMID: 37298868 PMCID: PMC10254188 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28114392] [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: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Microbiome dysbiosis resulting in altered metabolite profiles may be associated with certain diseases, including inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), which are characterized by active intestinal inflammation. Several studies have indicated the beneficial anti-inflammatory effect of metabolites from gut microbiota, such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and/or D-amino acids in IBD therapy, through orally administered dietary supplements. In the present study, the potential gut protective effects of d-methionine (D-Met) and/or butyric acid (BA) have been investigated in an IBD mouse model. We have also built an IBD mouse model, which was cost-effectively induced with low molecular weight DSS and kappa-carrageenan. Our findings revealed that D-Met and/or BA supplementation resulted in the attenuation of the disease condition as well as the suppression of several inflammation-related gene expressions in the IBD mouse model. The data shown here may suggest a promising therapeutic potential for improving symptoms of gut inflammation with an impact on IBD therapy. However, molecular metabolisms need to be further explored.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Satoru Matsuda
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Nara Women’s University, Kita-Uoya Nishimachi, Nara 630-8506, Japan;
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17
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Combination Therapy with Indigo and Indirubin for Ulcerative Colitis via Reinforcing Intestinal Barrier Function. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2023; 2023:2894695. [PMID: 36825081 PMCID: PMC9943625 DOI: 10.1155/2023/2894695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
Indigo and indirubin, the active molecules of traditional Chinese medicine indigo naturalis, exert therapeutic activity for ulcerative colitis (UC). Indigo and indirubin are isomers and have distinctive profiles in anti-inflammation, immune regulation, intestinal microbiota regulation, oxidative stress regulation, and intestinal mucosal repair for UC treatment. Thus, exploring its combined administration's integrated advantages for UC is critical. This study is aimed at clarifying the effect and mechanisms of the combined administration of indigo and indirubin on colitis mouse models. The results showed that all the treatment groups could improve the disease symptoms, and the combined administration showed the best effect. Additionally, compared with indigo and indirubin alone, the combination group could significantly reinforce intestinal barrier function by increasing the expression of E-cadherin, occludin, ZO-1, and MUC2 and improving intestinal permeability. The treatment groups significantly improved the expression of cytokines, including TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-12, IL-23, and IL-17A, and indirubin presented the most potent anti-inflammatory effect. Furthermore, all the treatment groups reduced the infiltration of the immune cells in intestinal lamina propria and the production of ROS/RNS. Notably, indigo exhibited a more substantial capacity to regulate natural killer (NK) cells, ILC3, neutrophils, and dendritic cells, followed by the combination group and indirubin alone. Finally, all the treatment groups modulated intestinal microbiota composition, increased the proportion of beneficial microbiota, and decreased the proportion of microbiota. Our results indicated that indigo and indirubin synergistically reinforced the intestinal barrier function, which may be associated with integrating the indirubin anti-inflammatory and intestinal microbiota regulating strength and indigo immune and ROS/RNS regulation advantage.
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18
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Ren J, Ren M, Mo Z, Lei M. Study on Anti-Inflammatory Mechanism of Angelica pubescens Based on Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking. Nat Prod Commun 2023. [DOI: 10.1177/1934578x221146616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
References and data show that AP has a certain effect on alleviating inflammation. Based on the methods of network pharmacology and molecular docking, this paper predicts the potential mechanism of anti-inflammatory effect of the effective components. Methods: Active components and target genes of AP were screened out by SymMap, an associated database of TCM syndromes. First, screen out the active components according to the setting conditions, and its molecular structure file was obtained from the PubChem database. The target genes of anti-inflammatory effect were obtained from GeneCards database with “anti-inflammation effect” as the keyword, and then the common gene targets between AP and anti-inflammatory effect were screened. The PPI network diagram was constructed with Cytoscape 3.80 software to screen the core genes. The GO function and KEGG pathway of the core genes were enriched and analyzed by David database; 3D view of proteins encoded by the core gene from the PDB database, conduct molecular docking between the active components and the core proteins in Auto Dock Vina software, and made a heat map with binding free energy. Results: The main anti-inflammatory components were O-Acetylcolumbianetin, isoindigo, Nodakenetin, Marmesin, Diphencyprone; The core targets are TNF, VEGFA, IL6, TP53, IL1B, ESR1, MMP9, PPARG, Jun, CASP3, PTGS2. AP participated in cytokine-mediated signaling pathway, response to drug, positive regulation of gene expression, and other processes by regulating the combination of extracellular space, cell surface with protein and enzyme, and then exert anti-inflammatory activity. The signal pathways mainly involved IL-17 signaling pathway, hepatitis B, TNF signaling pathway, inflammatory bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis, etc.; Through molecular docking, it was found that the key targets were MMP9, TNF, PTGS2, ESR1, JUN, and PPARG, while the active components which ha,d a strong effect on these genes were O-Acetylcolumbianetin, isoindigo, Nodakenetin, Marmesin, Diphencyprone. Conclusion: This study used network pharmacology and molecular docking methods to predict the potential active components, target genes, and signal pathways of the anti-inflammatory effect of AP, so as to provide a theoretical reference for the follow-up experimental research and clinical treatment of AP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianwei Ren
- Tibet University Medical College, Lhasa, China
| | - Minghui Ren
- Tibet University Medical College, Lhasa, China
| | | | - Ming Lei
- Department of Science and Technology of Tibet Autonomous Region, Lhasa, China
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19
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Zhou P, Lai J, Li Y, Deng J, Zhao C, Huang Q, Yang F, Yang S, Wu Y, Tang X, Huang F, Wang L, Huang X, Zou W, Wu J. Methyl Gallate Alleviates Acute Ulcerative Colitis by Modulating Gut Microbiota and Inhibiting TLR4/NF-κB Pathway. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232214024. [PMID: 36430509 PMCID: PMC9697899 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232214024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a complex immune-mediated inflammatory disease. In recent years, the incidence of UC has increased rapidly, however, its exact etiology and mechanism are still unclear. Based on the definite anti-inflammatory and antibacterial activities of Sanguisorba officinalis L., we studied its monomer, methyl gallate (MG). In this study, we employed flow cytometry and detected nitric oxide production, finding MG regulated macrophage polarization and inhibited the expression of proinflammatory cytokines in vitro. MG also exhibited anti-inflammatory activity accompanying with ameliorating body weight loss, improving colon length and histological damage in dextran sulfate sodium-induced UC mice. Meanwhile, transcription sequencing and 16S rRNA sequencing analyzed the key signaling pathways and changes in the gut microbiota of MG for UC treatment, proving that MG could alleviate inflammation by regulating the TLR4/NF-κB pathway in vivo and in vitro. Additionally, MG altered the diversity and composition of the gut microbiota and changed the abundance of metabolic products. In conclusion, our results are the first to demonstrate that MG has obvious therapeutic effects against acute UC, which is related to macrophage polarization, improved intestinal flora dysbiosis and inhibition of TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway, and MG may be a promising therapeutic agent for UC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Zhou
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Jia Lai
- School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Yueyue Li
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Junzhu Deng
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Chunling Zhao
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Qianqian Huang
- Luzhou Key Laboratory of Activity Screening and Druggability Evaluation for Chinese Materia Medica, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Fei Yang
- School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Shuo Yang
- School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Yuesong Wu
- School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Xiaoqin Tang
- School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Feihong Huang
- School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
- Luzhou Key Laboratory of Activity Screening and Druggability Evaluation for Chinese Materia Medica, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Long Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
- Luzhou Key Laboratory of Activity Screening and Druggability Evaluation for Chinese Materia Medica, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Xinwu Huang
- School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
- Luzhou Key Laboratory of Activity Screening and Druggability Evaluation for Chinese Materia Medica, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Wenjun Zou
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
- Correspondence: (W.Z.); (J.W.)
| | - Jianming Wu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
- School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
- Education Ministry Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
- Correspondence: (W.Z.); (J.W.)
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20
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Wei Y, Du X, Guo Y, Chang M, Deng B, Liu J, Cao J. Elucidation of physicochemical properties of polysaccharides extracted from Cordyceps militaris fruiting bodies with different drying treatments and their effects on ulcerative colitis in zebrafish. Front Nutr 2022; 9:980357. [PMID: 36118767 PMCID: PMC9481070 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.980357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Dry fruiting bodies of Cordyceps militaris (CMF) have been widely used in folk tonic foods and traditional herbal medicine in East Asia. Drying treatment serves as the last step in CMF industrial processes. In this work, the physicochemical properties of polysaccharides from C. militaris fruiting bodies (CMFPs) with hot air drying (HD), far-infrared radiation drying (ID) and vacuum freeze-drying (FD) treatments were analyzed, and their effects on ulcerative colitis (UC) were further investigated in oxazolone-induced zebrafish. The results showed that physicochemical properties of CMFP-H, CMFP-I and CMFP-F were obvious different. CMFPs could repair the intestinal mucosal barrier, inhibit ROS generation and the activities of MDA and MPO, and improve the activities of SOD, CAT, ACP, AKP and LZM. Further detection indicated that CMFPs could better improve UC via activating the MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathway in vivo. However, CMFP-H, CMFP-F and CMFP-I exhibited diverse regulation effects on specific immune-related enzymes and cytokines. The data would be helpful for finding practical and rapid drying methods for macro-fungi and further exploring CMFPs as functional food ingredients or complementary medicines for the treatments of UC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yin Wei
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Shanxi Agricultural University, Jinzhong, China
| | - Xiao Du
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Shanxi Agricultural University, Jinzhong, China
| | - Yangbian Guo
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Shanxi Agricultural University, Jinzhong, China
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Edible Fungi for Loess Plateau, Taiyuan, China
| | - Mingchang Chang
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Shanxi Agricultural University, Jinzhong, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Quality and Efficiency of Loess Plateau Edible Fungi, Jinzhong, China
| | - Bing Deng
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Shanxi Agricultural University, Jinzhong, China
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Edible Fungi for Loess Plateau, Taiyuan, China
| | - Jingyu Liu
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Shanxi Agricultural University, Jinzhong, China
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Edible Fungi for Loess Plateau, Taiyuan, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Quality and Efficiency of Loess Plateau Edible Fungi, Jinzhong, China
- *Correspondence: Jingyu Liu
| | - Jinling Cao
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Shanxi Agricultural University, Jinzhong, China
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Edible Fungi for Loess Plateau, Taiyuan, China
- Jinling Cao
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21
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Mizobuti DS, da Rocha GL, da Silva HNM, Covatti C, de Lourenço CC, Pereira ECL, Salvador MJ, Minatel E. Antioxidant effects of bis-indole alkaloid indigo and related signaling pathways in the experimental model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Cell Stress Chaperones 2022; 27:417-429. [PMID: 35687225 PMCID: PMC9346048 DOI: 10.1007/s12192-022-01282-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Indigo is a bis-indolic alkaloid that has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects reported in literature and is a promissory compound for treating chronic inflammatory diseases. This fact prompted to investigate the effects of this alkaloid in the experimental model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy. The main aim of this study was to evaluate the potential role of the indigo on oxidative stress and related signaling pathways in primary skeletal muscle cell cultures and in the diaphragm muscle from mdx mice. The MTT and Neutral Red assays showed no indigo dose-dependent toxicities in mdx muscle cells at concentrations analyzed (3.12, 6.25, 12.50, and 25.00 μg/mL). Antioxidant effect of indigo, in mdx muscle cells and diaphragm muscle, was demonstrated by reduction in 4-HNE content, H2O2 levels, DHE reaction, and lipofuscin granules. A significant decrease in the inflammatory process was identified by a reduction on TNF and NF-κB levels, on inflammatory area, and on macrophage infiltration in the dystrophic sample, after indigo treatment. Upregulation of PGC-1α and SIRT1 in dystrophic muscle cells treated with indigo was also observed. These results suggest the potential of indigo as a therapeutic agent for muscular dystrophy, through their action anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and modulator of SIRT1/PGC-1α pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Sayuri Mizobuti
- Instituto de Biologia, Departamento de Biologia Estrutural e Funcional, Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Cidade Universitária Zeferino Vaz, Campinas, SP, 13083-862, Brazil
| | - Guilherme Luiz da Rocha
- Instituto de Biologia, Departamento de Biologia Estrutural e Funcional, Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Cidade Universitária Zeferino Vaz, Campinas, SP, 13083-862, Brazil
| | - Heloina Nathalliê Mariano da Silva
- Instituto de Biologia, Departamento de Biologia Estrutural e Funcional, Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Cidade Universitária Zeferino Vaz, Campinas, SP, 13083-862, Brazil
| | - Caroline Covatti
- Instituto de Biologia, Departamento de Biologia Estrutural e Funcional, Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Cidade Universitária Zeferino Vaz, Campinas, SP, 13083-862, Brazil
| | - Caroline Caramano de Lourenço
- Instituto de Biologia, Departamento de Biologia Estrutural e Funcional, Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Cidade Universitária Zeferino Vaz, Campinas, SP, 13083-862, Brazil
| | - Elaine Cristina Leite Pereira
- Instituto de Biologia, Departamento de Biologia Estrutural e Funcional, Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Cidade Universitária Zeferino Vaz, Campinas, SP, 13083-862, Brazil
- Faculdade de Ceilândia, Universidade de Brasília (UnB), Brasília, Distrito Federal, 72220-275, Brazil
| | - Marcos José Salvador
- Instituto de Biologia, Departamento de Biologia Vegetal, Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Cidade Universitária Zeferino Vaz, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Elaine Minatel
- Instituto de Biologia, Departamento de Biologia Estrutural e Funcional, Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Cidade Universitária Zeferino Vaz, Campinas, SP, 13083-862, Brazil.
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22
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Li S, Chen Y, Zhang Y, Lv H, Luo L, Wang S, Guan X. Polyphenolic Extracts of Coffee Cherry Husks Alleviated Colitis-Induced Neural Inflammation via NF-κB Signaling Regulation and Gut Microbiota Modification. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2022; 70:6467-6477. [PMID: 35588304 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.2c02079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Coffee cherry husks, the main byproduct of coffee production, contain an abundance of polyphenols. In this study, dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced colitis mice were used to study the protective effects of polyphenolic extracts of coffee cherry husks (CCHP) on inflammation. The results indicated that CCHP administration alleviated the histological changes of DSS-induced colitis in mice and downregulated the mRNA level of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 and Cox-2. Interestingly, CCHP inhibited the activation of microglia and suppressed neural inflammation in the brain. The TLR4/Myd88/NF-κB signaling pathway was examined and found to be inhibited by CCHP. Furthermore, a determination of the gut microbiota showed that an alteration of microbiota induced by DSS was restored by CCHP, including the decrease of the relative abundance of Proteobacteria and the increase of Bacteroidota. In conclusion, our results revealed the great potential of CCHP to alleviate brain inflammation in colitis mice by inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway and regulating gut microbiota.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sen Li
- School of Health Science and Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai 200093, China
- National Grain Industry (Urban Grain and Oil Security) Technology Innovation Center, Shanghai 200093, China
| | - Yu Chen
- School of Health Science and Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai 200093, China
- National Grain Industry (Urban Grain and Oil Security) Technology Innovation Center, Shanghai 200093, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- School of Health Science and Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai 200093, China
- National Grain Industry (Urban Grain and Oil Security) Technology Innovation Center, Shanghai 200093, China
| | - Hongyan Lv
- School of Health Science and Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai 200093, China
- National Grain Industry (Urban Grain and Oil Security) Technology Innovation Center, Shanghai 200093, China
| | - Lei Luo
- School of Health Science and Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai 200093, China
- National Grain Industry (Urban Grain and Oil Security) Technology Innovation Center, Shanghai 200093, China
| | - Shuo Wang
- School of Health Science and Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai 200093, China
- National Grain Industry (Urban Grain and Oil Security) Technology Innovation Center, Shanghai 200093, China
| | - Xiao Guan
- School of Health Science and Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai 200093, China
- National Grain Industry (Urban Grain and Oil Security) Technology Innovation Center, Shanghai 200093, China
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23
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Electroacupuncture Synergistically Inhibits Proinflammatory Cytokine Production and Improves Cognitive Function in Rats with Cognitive Impairment due to Hepatic Encephalopathy through p38MAPK/STAT3 and TLR4/NF- κB Signaling Pathways. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2021; 2021:7992688. [PMID: 34630618 PMCID: PMC8500758 DOI: 10.1155/2021/7992688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2021] [Revised: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Objective To investigate the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) on cognitive dysfunction in rats with hepatic encephalopathy and its underlying mechanism. Methods Fifty Wistar rats were randomly divided into a normal group (n = 10) and model group (n = 40). Rat models of hepatic encephalopathy were established by administration of carbon tetrachloride and thioacetamide for a total of 12 weeks. At the 9th week after modeling, rats with cognitive impairment in the model group were identified by conducting the Morris water maze test, which were then randomly divided into a control group (CCl4) and treatment groups including EA group (CCl4 + EA), lactulose group (CCl4 + Lac), and EA plus lactulose group (CCl4 + CM), with 9 rats in each group. At the end of the 9th week, rats in CCl4 + Lac and CCl4 + CM groups had lactulose gavage at a dose of 10 mL/kg body weight, while normal control and CCl4 groups had gavage with the same volume of normal saline once a day for 21 days until the end of the experiment. Rats in CCl4 + EA and CCl4 + CM groups underwent acupuncture at Baihui (GV[DU]20), Shenting (GV[DU]24), and Zusanli (ST36) acupoints, among which EA at Baihui and Shenting acupoints were given once daily for 30 min lasting for 21 consecutive days. The effect of the treatment was measured by the Morris water maze test for learning and memory ability and magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) for neuronal metabolism in the hippocampus of rats with hepatic encephalopathy. Pathological change in the rat hippocampus was observed by HE staining, while serum ammonia and liver function markers were detected. Western blot and real-time fluorescent quantitative PCR were used to detect the expressions of specific genes and proteins in the brain tissue. Results Compared with those in the control group, rats undergoing EA had significantly shortened escape latency and increased number of platform crossing. H&E staining confirmed that EA improved brain tissue necrosis and ameliorated nuclear pyknosis in rats with hepatic encephalopathy. Significantly decreased levels of serum ammonia, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), total bilirubin (TBil), and total bile acid (TBA) were observed in rats undergoing EA, as well as improved levels of total protein (TP) and albumin (ALB). In addition, EA inhibited the brain expressions of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, iNOS, TLR4, MyD88, NF-κB, p38MAPK, phosphorylated (p)-p38MAPK, STAT3, and p-STAT3 genes, as well as protein expressions of TNF-α, IL-6, TLR4, MyD88, NF-κB, p38MAPK, p-p38MAPK, STAT3, and p-STAT3. MRS showed increased Glx/Cr and decreased NAA/Cr, Cho/Cr and mI/Cr in the control group, and EA significantly reversed such changes in Glx/Cr and mI/Cr values. Conclusion EA ameliorated the production of excessive proinflammatory cytokines in the hippocampus of rats with cognitive dysfunction secondary to hepatic encephalopathy, which also gave rise to subsequent changes such as reduced blood ammonia level, brain-protective activated astrocytes, and lower degree of brain tissue injury. The p38MAPK/STAT3 and TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathways may be involved. EA can also improve the metabolism of NAA and Cho in the rat hippocampus and thereby improve learning and memory abilities.
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