Phenylethanol Glycosides from Cistanche tubulosa Suppress Hepatic Stellate Cell Activation and Block the Conduction of Signaling Pathways in TGF-β1/smad as Potential Anti-Hepatic Fibrosis Agents

Tubuloside A alleviates postmyocardial infarction cardiac fibrosis by inhibiting TGM2: Involvement of inflammation and mitochondrial pathway apoptosis

Cardiac fibrosis is associated with myocardial remodeling following myocardial infarction (MI), which can lead to heart failure, arrhythmias, and even death. This study aimed to determine the effects of tubuloside A (TA) on cardiac fibrosis after MI and elucidate their underlying molecular mechanisms. Rats were divided into the following groups: sham (fake surgery), MI, MI + 1 mg/kg TA, and MI + 3 mg/kg TA. Compared with MI, the addition of TA significantly reduced mortality, improved cardiac function, decreased infarct size, and inhibited myocardial injury and fibrosis. To verify the direct targets of TA, we used cellular thermal shift assay and drug affinity responsive target stability to analyze drug-protein interactions and discovered that TA can bind directly to TGM2 and inhibit its enzymatic activity. Furthermore, to investigate whether TA can inhibit the TGF-β1-mediated activation of cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) through TGM2, we overexpressed TGM2 in CF cells and treated them with TA. We found that TA inhibited the activity of TGM2 in CF cells and reduced α-SMA, collagen-I, and collagen-III levels, thereby inhibiting the progression of fibrosis. Similarly, we found that TA could exert anti-inflammatory and antiapoptotic effects by inhibiting TGM2. Overall, we demonstrated that TA is a potential candidate drug for inhibiting the impacts of myocardial infarction and cardiac fibrosis, reducing postinfarction fibrosis by inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway and suppressing mitochondrial pathway-mediated apoptosis. Therefore, focusing on drug discovery strategies for TA may provide a promising therapeutic approach for MI.

Acteoside and isoacteoside alleviate renal dysfunction and inflammation in lipopolysaccharide-induced acute kidney injuries through inhibition of NF-κB signaling pathway

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a sudden loss of renal function with a high mortality rate and inflammation is thought to be the underlying cause. The phenylpropanoid components acteoside (ACT) and isoacteoside (ISO), which were isolated from Cistanche deserticola Y.C.Ma, have been reported to have preventive effects against kidney disorders. This study aimed to investigate the anti-inflammatory properties and protective mechanisms of ACT and ISO. In this investigation, kidney function was assessed using a semi-automatic biochemical analyzer, histopathology was examined using Hematoxylin-Eosin staining and immunohistochemistry, and the concentration of inflammatory cytokines was assessed using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) test. In addition, using Western blot and q-PCR, the expression of proteins and genes connected to the NF-κB signaling pathway in mice with lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced AKI was found. The findings showed that under AKI intervention in LPS group, ACT group and ISO group, the expression of Rela (Rela gene is responsible for the expression of NFκB p65 protein) and Tlr4 mRNA was considerably elevated (P<0.01), which led to a significant improvement in the expression of MyD88, TLR4, Iκ-Bɑ and NF-κB p65 protein (P<0.001). The levels of Alb, Crea and BUN (P<0.001) increased along with the release of downstream inflammatory factors such as IL-1β, IL-6, Cys-C, SOD1 and TNF-α (P<0.001). More importantly, the study showed that ISO had a more favorable impact on LPS-induced AKI mice than ACT. In conclusion, by inhibiting NF-κB signaling pathway, ACT and ISO could relieve renal failure and inflammation in AKI, offering a fresh possibility for the therapeutic management of the condition.

Echinacea: Bioactive Compounds and Agronomy

For centuries, medicinal plants have been used as sources of remedies and treatments for various disorders and diseases. Recently, there has been renewed interest in these plants due to their potential pharmaceutical properties, offering natural alternatives to synthetic drugs. Echinacea, among the world's most important medicinal plants, possesses immunological, antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties. Nevertheless, there is a notable lack of thorough information regarding the echinacea species, underscoring the vital need for a comprehensive review paper to consolidate existing knowledge. The current review provides a thorough analysis of the existing knowledge on recent advances in understanding the physiology, secondary metabolites, agronomy, and ecology of echinacea plants, focusing on E. purpurea, E. angustifolia, and E. pallida. Pharmacologically advantageous effects of echinacea species on human health, particularly distinguished for its ability to safeguard the nervous system and combat cancer, are discussed. We also highlight challenges in echinacea research and provide insights into diverse approaches to boost the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites of interest in echinacea plants and optimize their large-scale farming. Various academic databases were employed to carry out an extensive literature review of publications from 2001 to 2024. The medicinal properties of echinacea plants are attributed to diverse classes of compounds, including caffeic acid derivatives (CADs), chicoric acid, echinacoside, chlorogenic acid, cynarine, phenolic and flavonoid compounds, polysaccharides, and alkylamides. Numerous critical issues have emerged, including the identification of active metabolites with limited bioavailability, the elucidation of specific molecular signaling pathways or targets linked to echinacoside effects, and the scarcity of robust clinical trials. This raises the overarching question of whether scientific inquiry can effectively contribute to harnessing the potential of natural compounds. A systematic review and analysis are essential to furnish insights and lay the groundwork for future research endeavors focused on the echinacea natural products.

Echinacoside: A promising active natural products and pharmacological agents

Echinacoside, a natural phenylethanoid glycoside, was discovered and isolated from the garden plant Echinacea angustifolia DC., belonging to the Compositae family, approximately sixty years ago. Extensive investigations have revealed that it possesses a wide array of pharmacologically beneficial activities for human health, particularly notable for its neuroprotective and anticancer activity. Several crucial concerns surfaced, encompassing the recognition of active metabolites that exhibited inadequate bioavailability in their prototype form, the establishment of precise molecular signal pathways or targets associated with the aforementioned effects of echinacoside, and the scarcity of dependable clinical trials. Hence, the question remains unanswered as to whether scientific research can effectively utilize this natural compound. To support future studies on this natural product, it is imperative to provide a systematic overview and insights into potential future prospects. The current review provides a comprehensive analysis of the existing knowledge on echinacoside, encompassing its wide distribution, structural diversity and metabolism, diverse therapeutic applications, and improvement of echinacoside bioavailability for its potential utilization.

Studies on Cistanches Herba: A Bibliometric Analysis

As a famous tonic herb, Cistanches Herba is known for its broad medicinal functions, especially its hormone balancing, anti-aging, anti-dementia, anti-tumor, anti-oxidative, neuroprotective, and hepatoprotective effects. This study aims to provide a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of studies on Cistanche and to identify research hotspots and frontier topics on the genus. Based on the metrological analysis software CiteSpace, 443 Cistanche related papers were quantitatively reviewed. The results indicate that 330 institutions from 46 countries have publications in this field. China was the leading country in terms of research importance and number of publication (335 articles). In the past decades, studies on Cistanche have mainly focused on its rich active substances and pharmacological effects. Although the research trend shows that Cistanche has grown from an endangered species to an important industrial plant, its breeding and cultivation continue to be important areas for research. In the future, the application of Cistanche species as functional foods may be a new research trend. In addition, active collaborations among researchers, institutions, and countries are expected.

Echinacoside from Cistanche tubulosa ameliorates alcohol-induced liver injury and oxidative stress by targeting Nrf2

Cistanche tubulosa (Schrenk) Wight, named Guan hua Rou Cong-Rong in Chinese, is a traditional plant with liver, kidney, and intestine protective effects. Echinacoside (ECH) is its active constituent and has been found to have various biological effects, including antioxidative stress and anti-inflammatory effects. Liver injury caused by acetaminophen or CCL₄ has been proven to benefit from ECH; however, the effects of ECH against alcoholic liver disease (ALD) remain unclear. This study was used to estimate the effect of echinacoside on nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), which ameliorates ALD by inhibiting oxidative stress and cell apoptosis through affecting Nrf2.A mouse model of ALD was established with ethanol using hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining, oiled staining, and biochemical indices. Alpha Mouse Liver 12 (AML-12) cells were induced with ethanol in vitro and analyzed using western blotting, flow cytometry, and biochemical assays. In the animal model of ALD, ECH dramatically reduced liver damage, as proven by the downregulation of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and HE staining. In vitro, ECH distinctly reduced the damage caused by ethanol through the decreased expression of cleaved caspase-3 measured by western blotting. ECH significantly increased the activity of Nrf2 in vivo and in vitro. Nrf2 knockout may diminish the influence of ECH on ALD. Meanwhile, ECH also increased the expression of haem oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and glutamate-cysteine ligase catalytic subunit (GCLC), while it inhibited levels of oxidative stress and cell apoptosis. Our findings suggest that ECH protects against ethanol-induced liver injuries by alleviating oxidative stress and cell apoptosis by increasing the activity of Nrf2. Therefore, ECH is promising for the treatment of ALD.

Verbascoside and isoverbascoside ameliorate transforming growth factor β1-induced collagen expression by lung fibroblasts through Smad/non-Smad signaling pathways

AIMS

Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is a chronic, irreversible, and debilitating lung disease that typically leads to respiratory failure, and is a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Few drugs are effective for the treatment of patients with PF or for reducing the rate of disease progression.

MAIN METHODS

Transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) is a profibrotic cytokine that signals through Smad and non-Smad pathways. Verbascoside (VB) and isoverbascoside (isoVB) exhibit anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory activities, however, their anti-fibrotic effects remain unclear. This study evaluated the effects of VB and isoVB on TGF-β1-stimulated murine lung fibroblasts (MLg 2908) and also human lung fibroblasts (confirmed by immunostaining).

KEY FINDINGS

Neither VB nor isoVB had a cytotoxic effect on MLg 2908 fibroblasts. Both compounds (10 μM) reduced intracellular reactive oxygen species and markedly attenuated collagen I expression in TGF-β1 (5 ng/ml)-induced MLg 2908 cells compared to TGF-β1 alone. Both compounds suppressed the TGF-β1-induced phosphorylation of Smad2/3 and ERK/p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs). VB and isoVB, but not pirfenidone and nintedanib, inhibited TGF-β1-induced pSmad2/3, ERK/p38 MAPK, and collagen I expression. VB and isoVB also decreased collagen I deposition in TGF-β1-induced MLg 2908 cells. Only isoVB significantly suppressed collagen I deposition in TGF-β1-induced human pulmonary cells. Our results indicated that VB and isoVB may exert antifibrotic effects by inhibiting TGF-β1-induced collagen I expression via inhibition of oxidative stress and downregulation of the Smad/non-Smad pathway.

SIGNIFICANCE

The present findings suggest that VB or isoVB may be used as a supplement to alleviate PF.

Echinacoside (ECH) suppresses proliferation, migration, and invasion of human glioblastoma cells by inhibiting Skp2-triggered epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)

BACKGROUND

Echinacoside (ECH) is a phenylethanoid extracted from the stems of Cistanches salsa, an herb used in Chinese medicine formulations, and is effective against glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is the cornerstone of tumorigenesis and metastasis, and increases the malignant behavior of GBM cells. The S phase kinase-related protein 2 (skp2), an oncoprotein associated with EMT, is highly expressed in GBM and significantly associated with drug resistance, tumor grade and dismal prognosis. The aim of this study was to explore the inhibitory effects of ECH against GBM development and skp2-induced EMT.

METHODS

CCK-8, EdU incorporation, transwell, colony formation and sphere formation assays were used to determine the effects of ECH on GBM cell viability, proliferation, migration and invasion in vitro. The in vivo anti-glioma effects of ECH were examined using a U87 xenograft model. The expression levels of skp2 protein, EMT-associated markers (vimentin and snail) and stemness markers (Nestin and sox2) were analyzed by immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence staining and western blotting experiments.

RESULTS

ECH suppressed the proliferation, invasiveness and migration of GBM cells in vitro, as well as the growth of U87 xenograft in vivo. In addition, ECH downregulated the skp2 protein, EMT-related markers (vimentin and snail) and stemness markers (sox2 and Nestin). The inhibitory effects of ECH were augmented in the skp2-knockdown GBM cells, and reversed in cells with ectopic expression of skp2.

CONCLUSION

ECH inhibits glioma development by suppressing skp2-induced EMT of GBM cells.

Effects of Acanthus ebracteatus Vahl. extract and verbascoside on human dermal papilla and murine macrophage

Androgenic alopecia is a common type of hair loss, usually caused by testosterone metabolism generating dihydrotestosterone and hair follicular micro-inflammation. These processes induce dermal papilla cells to undergo apoptosis. Currently approved effective medications for alopecia are Finasteride, an oral 5α-reductase inhibitor, Minoxidil, a topical hair growth promoter, and Diclofenac, an anti-inflammatory agent, all of which, however, have several adverse side effects. In our study, we showed the bioactivity of Acanthus ebracteatus Vahl. (AE) extract performed by 95% ethanol, and verbascoside (VB), a biomarker of AE extract. Both AE extract and VB were studied for their effects on dermal papilla cell viability and the cell cycle by using MTT assay and flow cytometry. The effect of an anti-inflammatory activity of AE extract and VB on IL-1β, NO, and TNF-α, released from LPS induced RAW 264.7 cells, and IL-1α and IL-6 released from irradiated dermal papilla cells were detected using ELISA technique. The preventive effect on dermal papilla cell apoptosis induced by testosterone was determined by MTT assay. In controlled in vitro assays it was found that AE extract and VB at various concentrations induced dermal papilla cell proliferation which was indicated by an increase in the number of cells in the S and G2/M phases of the cell cycle. AE extract at 250 µg/mL concentration or VB at 62.50 µg/mL concentration prevented cell apoptosis induced by testosterone at a statistically significant level. In addition, both AE extract and VB greatly inhibited the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines from RAW 264.7 and dermal papilla cells. The release of IL-1β, TNF-α, and NO from RAW 264.7 cells, as well as IL-1α and IL-6 from dermal papilla cells, was also diminished by AE extract 250 µg/mL and VB 125 µg/mL. Our results indicate that AE extract and VB are promising ingredients for anti-hair loss applications. However, further clinical study is necessary to evaluate the effectiveness of AE extract and VB as treatment for actual hair loss.

The Quality Monitoring of Cistanches Herba (Cistanche deserticola Ma): A Value Chain Perspective

Cistanche deserticola Ma was used as a medicine food homology, which was mainly produced in the Alxa region of northwest China. In recent years, it has been widely used in various food items. The increasing demand for Cistanches Herba has led to problems such as overexploitation and quality deterioration. The quality and safety of herbal medicines are critical and have been shown to be affected by the value chain (VC). Using the VC framework, the study is embedded in a larger study aiming to investigate the effects of different VCs types on the quality and stakeholders of Cistanches Herba. In this study, 90 Cistanches Herba samples were collected during fieldwork. An additional 40 samples were obtained from the herbal markets and medicine purchasing stations. Semi-structured interviews and key informant interviews were performed to collect data on stakeholders in major production areas. These samples were analyzed using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) coupled with the k-means clustering method; a targeted quality assessment strategy based on chemical analysis was adopted to understand the quality of Cistanches Herba. Based on market research, the collected samples were divided into different grades through k-means clustering analysis. Moreover, quality differences of Cistanches Herba in Alxa region were explored through DNA barcoding and chemical analysis. Accordingly, 10 different types of VCs were determined in the production of Cistanches Herba. The results show that there is a close relationship between the quality of Cistanches Herba and stakeholder benefits. Vertical integration at different levels was found for independent farmer-based VCs, horizontal collaboration was found in the cooperative-based VCs. The vertical coordination has led to a more consistent traceability system and strict regulation of supply chains. At the same time, the Cistanches Herba were divided into three grades. Through DNA barcoding and chemical analysis, we found that the quality differences between Cistanches Herba in the Alxa area were not significant. It was found that geographical suitability and vertical integration could impact the quality and sustainable production of Cistanches Herba. At the same time, the well-developed VCs can provide products with reliable quality, and ensure adequate financial revenue for relevant stakeholders.

Effects of the Cistanche tubulosa Aqueous Extract on the Gut Microbiota of Mice with Intestinal Disorders

Disorders of the gut microbiota are associated with many diseases. The aqueous extract from Cistanche tubulosa (CT), a traditional Chinese herbal formula, has been reported to play a role in protecting the human intestine. However, little is known about its effects on the gut microbiota. The present study was carried out to determine whether the CT aqueous extract can modulate the gut microbiome in mice with intestinal disorders. We found that the damaged intestinal morphology resulting from treatment with cefixime could be rescued using the CT aqueous extract. The comparison of microbial diversity between mice treated with the CT extract and control mice also indicated that the disorder in the microbiome community of model groups could be restored by treatment with high and medium concentrations of the CT aqueous extract. Treatment with cefixime led to a significant decrease in lactic acid bacteria; however, the supplementation of the CT aqueous extract recovered the growth of these lactic acid bacteria. Furthermore, the CT aqueous extract was able to moderate the dramatic changes in the metabolic pathways of the gut microbiome induced by cefixime. These findings provided an insight into the beneficial effects of the CT aqueous extract on gut microbiota, and they also provided an important reference for the development of related drugs in the future.

Fibrosis as a result of polyhexamethylene guanide exposure in cultured Statens Seruminstitut Rabbit Cornea (SIRC) cells

Previous research studies on the toxicity of polyhexamethylene guanidine (PHMG) as a humidifier disinfectant majorly focused on lung fibrosis. Considering that disinfectants in humidifiers are released in aerosol form, the eyes are directly exposed and highly vulnerable to the detrimental effects of the PHMG. Therefore, in the present study we investigated the adverse effects of PHMG on the eyes; considering fibrosis as a manifestation of PHMG toxicity in the eye, we evaluated fibrosis-related biomarkers in cultured Statens Seruminstitut Rabbit Cornea (SIRC) cells. Cell viability was measured using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, fibrosis-related biomarkers were evaluated through polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and immunoblotting, and oxidative stress was evaluated using 2',7'-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate (H2DCFDA). Polyhexamethylene guanidine showed cytotoxicity in a time and concentration-dependent manner. Fibrosis related biomarkers including transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), matrix metalloproteinase (MMP), tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP) and hemeoxygenase-1 (HO-1) increased in both gene and protein levels. Oxidative stress also increased in the PHMG-treated cultured cells. The findings of the present study suggest that PHMG could cause toxicity in the eye as manifested by fibrosis.

Verbascoside inhibits the epithelial-mesenchymal transition of prostate cancer cells through high-mobility group box 1/receptor for advanced glycation end-products/TGF-β pathway

INTRODUCTION

Prostate cancer has significant mortality and metastasis rate in the male. Unfortunately, effective treatment for patients with advanced prostate cancer is still lacking. Verbascoside, a phenylethanoid glycoside, displays various pharmacological properties, such as the anti-cancer activities. The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of purified verbascoside on human prostate cancer and the associated molecular mechanisms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The human prostate cancer cell lines, Du-145 and PC-3, were treated with various concentrations of verbascoside (0.1, 1, 10 μM) for 24 h followed by the examination of cell viability using MTT and trypan blue exclusion assays. Cell migration and invasion capacities were assessed by wound healing assay and transwell system. Western blot and immunofluorescence staining were used to detect the expression of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-associated factors, components of transforming growth factor (TGF-β)/Smad signaling, and high-mobility group box (HMGB)/receptor for advanced glycation end-products (RAGE) axis.

RESULTS

Verbascoside treatment significantly inhibited cell proliferation, migration, and invasion abilities of Du-145 and PC-3 cells. We showed that verbascoside decreased the expression of EMT promotors, Snail and Slug, and increased the expression of E-cadherin. Moreover, the expression level of alpha-smooth muscle actin was downregulated by verbascoside as well. Besides, we found that the TGF-β pathway was suppressed, which was demonstrated by the diminished expression of type I and II TGF-β receptors and phosphorylated Smad2/3 along with the upregulated Smad7. Our data suggested that this downregulation of TGF-β signaling was mediated by repression of HMGB 1 (HMGB1)/RAGE axis.

CONCLUSION

Verbascoside mitigated the cell proliferation and aggressiveness of prostate cancer via downregulation of TGF-β-associated EMT progression through HMGB1/RAGE suppression. Collectively, our findings revealed that verbascoside may be a beneficial dietary supplement for prostate cancer patients.

Herba Cistanche (Rou Cong Rong): A Review of Its Phytochemistry and Pharmacology

Herba Cistanche, known as Rou Cong Rong in Chinese, is a very valuable Chinese herbal medicine that has been recorded in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia. Rou Cong Rong has been extensively used in clinical practice in traditional herbal formulations and has also been widely used as a health food supplement for a long time in Asian countries such as China and Japan. There are many bioactive compounds in Rou Cong Rong, the most important of which are phenylethanoid glycosides. This article summarizes the up-to-date information regarding the phytochemistry, pharmacology, processing, toxicity and safety of Rou Cong Rong to reveal its pharmacodynamic basis and potential therapeutic effects, which could be of great value for its use in future research.

Phenylethanol Glycosides Protect Myocardial Hypertrophy Induced by Abdominal Aortic Constriction via ECE-1 Demethylation Inhibition and PI3K/PKB/eNOS Pathway Enhancement

Phenylethanol glycosides (CPhGs) are the core material basis of pharmacological activity in Cistanche tubulosa and have a variety of pharmacological effects. However, it is unclear whether CPhGs have an ameliorative effect on pressure overload-induced myocardial hypertrophy. In this study, male SD rats weighing (200 ± 20) g were established cardiac hypertrophy models by abdominal aortic coarctation (AAC). After operation, the rats were gavaged with corresponding medicine for 6 weeks (CPhGs 125, 250, and 500 mg/kg/d and valsartan 8.3 mg/kg/d). Echocardiography, heart weight index (HWI), cross-sectional area of cardiomyocytes (CSCA), fibrosis area, plasma endothelin 1(ET-1), and proinflammatory factors levels were detected. Our results showed that different CPhGs dosage decreased left ventricular posterior wall thickness (LVPWT), left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (LVED), HWI, CSCA, fibrosis area, ET-1, proinflammatory factors, arterial natriuretic peptide (ANP), brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), endothelin converting enzyme 1(ECE-1) mRNA levels, cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2), high mobility group box 1 (HMGB-1) protein levels, and ECE-1 demethylation level while increasing left ventricular ejection fractions (LVEF), left ventricular fractional shortening (LVFS), phosphorylated phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (p-PI3K), phosphorylated protein kinase B (p-PKB), and phosphorylated endothelial nitric oxide synthetase (p-eNOS). The indexes of CPhGs 250 and 500 mg/kg group were significantly different from AAC group; compared with valsartan group (AV), the indexes of CPhGs 500 mg/kg group were not significantly different. In conclusion, CPhGs ameliorated myocardial hypertrophy rats by AAC, which may be related to ECE-1 demethylation inhibition and PI3K/PKB/eNOS enhancement.

Highly Efficient Adsorption of Phenylethanoid Glycosides on Mesoporous Carbon

PhGs are the major active compounds of Cistanche tubulosa, and it is extremely desirable for obtaining high purification of PhGs by adsorption from their extracts. To explore highly efficient adsorption of PhGs, a novel adsorption material for the efficient separation and purification of phenylethanoid glycosides (PhGs) from Cistanche tubulosa was explored. The three mesoporous carbons of ordered mesoporous carbon (CMK-3), disordered mesoporous carbon (DMC), and three-dimensional cubic mesoporous carbon (CMK-8) were compared for adsorption of PhGs. Meanwhile, adsorption isotherms, adsorption kinetics, and the optimization of adsorption conditions were investigated. The results indicated that CMK-3 showed the highest adsorption capacity of 358.09 ± 4.13 mg/g due to its high specific surface area, large pore volume and oxygen-containing functional groups. The experimental data can be accurately described using the Langmuir model and pseudo-second-order model. The intra-particle diffusion model suggested that the rate-limiting steps of adsorption were intra-particle diffusion.

Polyphenolic compounds as electron shuttles for sustainable energy utilization

For renewable and sustainable bioenergy utilization with cost-effectiveness, electron-shuttles (ESs) (or redox mediators (RMs)) act as electrochemical "catalysts" to enhance rates of redox reactions, catalytically accelerating electron transport efficiency for abiotic and biotic electrochemical reactions. ESs are popularly used in cellular respiratory systems, metabolisms in organisms, and widely applied to support global lives. Apparently, they are applicable to increase power-generating capabilities for energy utilization and/or fuel storage (i.e., dye-sensitized solar cell, batteries, and microbial fuel cells (MFCs)). This first-attempt review specifically deciphers the chemical structure association with characteristics of ESs, and discloses redox-mediating potentials of polyphenolics-abundant ESs via MFC modules. Moreover, to effectively convert electron-shuttling capabilities from non-sustainable antioxidant activities, environmental conditions to induce electrochemical mediation apparently play critical roles of great significance for bioenergy stimulation. For example, pH levels would significantly affect electrochemical potentials to be exhibited (e.g., alkaline pHs are electrochemically favorable for expression of such electron-shuttling characteristics). Regarding chemical structure effect, chemicals with ortho- and para-dihydroxyl substituents-bearing aromatics own convertible characteristics of non-renewable antioxidants and electrochemically catalytic ESs; however, ES capabilities of meta-dihydroxyl substituents can be evidently repressed due to lack of resonance effect in the structure for intermediate radical(s) during redox reaction. Moreover, this review provides conclusive remarks to elucidate the promising feasibility to identify whether such characteristics are non-renewable antioxidants or reversible ESs from natural polyphenols via cyclic voltammetry and MFC evaluation. Evidently, considering sustainable development, such electrochemically convertible polyphenolic species in plant extracts can be reversibly expressed for bioenergy-stimulating capabilities in MFCs under electrochemically favorable conditions.

The Phenylethanol Glycoside Liposome Inhibits PDGF-Induced HSC Activation via Regulation of the FAK/PI3K/Akt Signaling Pathway

Cistanche tubulosa is a traditional Chinese herbal medicine that is widely used to regulate immunity, and phenylethanol glycosides (CPhGs) are among the primary components responsible for this activity. However, the application of CPhGs is negatively affected by their poor absorption and low oral utilization. Targeted drug delivery is an important development direction for pharmaceutics. Previous studies have indicated that CPhGs could block the conduction of the signaling pathways in TGF-β1/smad and inhibit the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). The aim of this study was to evaluate the anti-hepatic fibrosis effect of CPhG liposomes by inhibiting HSC activation, promoting apoptosis, blocking the cell cycle, suppressing the conduction of signaling pathways in focal adhesion kinase(FAK)/phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase(PI3K)/protein kinase B(Akt), and determining their in vitro hepatoprotective activity. In vitro release studies demonstrated that CPhG liposomes have a sustained release effect compared to drug CPhGs. HSC proliferation was inhibited after treatment with the CPhG liposomes (29.45, 14.72, 7.36 µg/mL), with IC50 values of 42.54 µg/mL in the MTT assay. Different concentrations of the CPhG liposomes could inhibit HSC proliferation, promote apoptosis, and block the cell cycle. The MTT method showed an obvious inhibition of HSC proliferation after CPhG liposome and Recombinant Rat Platelet-derived growth factor-BB(rrPDGF-BB) treatment. The levels of collagen-1, metallopeptidase inhibitor 1 (TIMP-1), α smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), and phosphorylated PI3K/Akt were downregulated, and matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) was upregulated, by pretreatment with different concentrations of CPhG liposomes. Moreover, 29.45 μg/mL of CPhG liposomes could decrease the expression of the FAK protein and the phosphorylated PI3K and Akt protein downstream of FAK by overexpression of the FAK gene. This experiment suggests that CPhG liposomes may inhibit the activation of HSCs by inhibiting FAK and then reducing the expression of phosphorylated Akt/PI3K, thereby providing new insights into the application of CPhGs for liver fibrosis.

Acteoside inhibits autophagic apoptosis of retinal ganglion cells to rescue glaucoma-induced optic atrophy

BACKGROUND

Glaucoma is the world's second biggest cause of blindness, and patients progressively lose their eyesight. The current clinical treatment for glaucoma involves controlling intraocular pressure with drugs or surgery; however, some patients still progressively lose their eyesight. This treatment is also similar to the treatment of traumatic optic neuropathy. Thus, saving retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) from apoptosis is essential.

METHODS

The role of Acteoside on autophagy modulation in the 661 W cell line.

RESULTS

In this study, we first find that Acteoside inhibits autophagy, Rapamycin alleviates this inhibition and the PI3K inhibitor, 3-MA or LY294002, synergistically promotes it. In a mechanistic study, we find that Optineurin (OPTN) mediates Acteoside regulation of autophagy. OPTN overexpression or knockdown activates or inhibits autophagy, respectively. OPTN is inhibited by autophagy inhibitors, such as Acteoside and 3-MA and is promoted by the autophagy activator, Rapamycin. Meanwhile, PI3K and AKT are elevated by Acteoside and 3-MA and inhibited by Rapamycin. Finally, we find that Acteoside inhibits apoptosis in parallel to autophagy and that this inhibition is also mediated by OPTN.

CONCLUSION

In summary, we conclude that Acteoside inhibits autophagy-induced apoptosis in RGCs through the OPTN and PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway, and glaucoma patients may benefit from Acteoside treatment alone or in combination with other autophagy inhibitors.

Lanostane-type triterpenoids from the fruiting bodies of Ganoderma applanatum

Twelve previously undescribed lanostane-type triterpenoids, including three triterpenoids with a γ-lactone ring, namely applanlactones A‒C, four highly oxygenated lanostane triterpenoids, namely methyl applaniate A and applanoic acids B‒D, as well as five C21 nortriterpenoids, applanones A‒E were isolated from the fruiting bodies of Ganoderma applanatum (Pers.) Pat.. Their structures were elucidated by 1D, 2D NMR and MS spectra, as well as X-ray crystallographic analyses. Meanwhile, applanlactone A, methyl applaniate A and applanoic acid B showed inhibitory effects for the proliferation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) induced by transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) in vitro.

New insights into TGF-β/Smad signaling in tissue fibrosis

Transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) is considered as a crucial mediator in tissue fibrosis and causes tissue scarring largely by activating its downstream small mother against decapentaplegic (Smad) signaling. Different TGF-β signalings play different roles in fibrogenesis. TGF-β1 directly activates Smad signaling which triggers pro-fibrotic gene overexpression. Excessive studies have demonstrated that dysregulation of TGF-β1/Smad pathway was an important pathogenic mechanism in tissue fibrosis. Smad2 and Smad3 are the two major downstream regulator that promote TGF-β1-mediated tissue fibrosis, while Smad7 serves as a negative feedback regulator of TGF-β1/Smad pathway thereby protects against TGF-β1-mediated fibrosis. This review presents an overview of the molecular mechanisms of TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway in renal, hepatic, pulmonary and cardiac fibrosis, followed by an in-depth discussion of their molecular mechanisms of intervention effects both in vitro and in vivo. The role of TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway in tumor or cancer is also discussed. Additionally, the current advances also highlight targeting TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway for the prevention of tissue fibrosis. The review reveals comprehensive pathophysiological mechanisms of tissue fibrosis. Particular challenges are presented and placed within the context of future applications against tissue fibrosis.

Antifibrotic role of PGC-1α-siRNA against TGF-β1-induced renal interstitial fibrosis

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor coactivator-1 alpha (PGC-1α) is a transcriptional coactivator that regulates energy metabolism and mitochondrial biogenesis. Recently, mitochondrial dysfunction has been indicated as an established risk factor for the development of renal fibrosis. However, whether PGC-1α is involved in the pathogenesis of renal fibrosis is unknown. In this study, we treated NRK-49F (normal rat kidney fibroblast) cells with transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1) for 24 h to establish an in vitro fibrosis model. TGF-β1 induced the upregulation of type I collagen, fibronectin, TGF-β receptor I (TGFβ-RI), TGFβ-RII, Smad4, and pSmad2/3, as well as PGC-1α. NRK-49F cells transfected with pcDNA-PGC-1α showed significantly increased expression of fibronectin and type I collagen, as revealed by western blot assay. Interestingly, transfection with PGC-1α-siRNA caused a stark reversal of TGF-β1-induced cellular fibrosis, with concomitant suppression of fibronectin and type I collagen, as revealed by western blot and immunofluorescence assays. Moreover, SB431542 (TGFβ-RI), LY294002 (PI3K/Akt), and SB203580 (p38 MAPK), inhibitors of TGF-β-associated pathways, markedly suppressed TGF-β1-induced PGC-1α upregulation. These results implicate a role of PGC-1α in renal interstitial fibrosis mediated via the TGFβ-RI, PI3K/Akt, and p38 MAPK pathways. Our findings that PGC-1α-siRNA downregulates fibronectin and type I collagen suggest that it can be used as a novel molecular treatment for renal fibrosis.

Cistanches Herba: An overview of its chemistry, pharmacology, and pharmacokinetics property

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Cistanches Herba is an Orobanchaceae parasitic plant. As a commonly used Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), its traditional functions include treating kidney deficiency, impotence, female infertility and senile constipation. Chemical analysis of Cistanches Herba revealed that phenylethanoid glycosides, iridoids, lignans, oligosaccharides, and polysaccharides were the main constituents. Pharmacological studies demonstrated that Cistanches Herba exhibited neuroprotective, immunomodulatory, hormonal balancing, anti-fatigue, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotection, anti-oxidative, anti-bacterial, anti-viral, and anti-tumor effects, etc. The aim of this review is to provide updated, comprehensive and categorized information on the phytochemistry, pharmacological research and pharmacokinetics studies of the major constituents of Cistanches Herba.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The literature search was conducted by systematic searching multiple electronic databases including SciFinder, ISI Web of Science, PubMed, Google Scholar and CNKI. Information was also collected from journals, local magazines, books, monographs.

RESULTS

To date, more than 100 compounds have been isolated from this genus, include phenylethanoid glycosides, carbohydrates, lignans, iridoids, etc. The crude extracts and isolated compounds have exhibited a wide range of in vitro and in vivo pharmacologic effects, such as neuroprotective, immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotection, anti-oxidative, anti-bacterial, and anti-tumor effects. The phenylethanoid glycosides, echinacoside and acteoside have attracted the most attention for their significantly neuropharmacology effects. Pharmacokinetic studies of echinacoside and acteoside also have also been summarized.

CONCLUSION

Phenylethanoid glycosides have demonstrated wide pharmacological actions and have great clinical value if challenges such as poor bioavailability, fast and extensive metabolism are addressed. Apart from phenylethanoid glycosides, other constituents of Cistanches Herba, their pharmacological activities and underlying mechanisms are also need to be studied further.

Echinacoside, an Inestimable Natural Product in Treatment of Neurological and other Disorders

Echinacoside (ECH), a natural phenylethanoid glycoside, was first isolated from Echinacea angustifolia DC. (Compositae) sixty years ago. It was found to possess numerous pharmacologically beneficial activities for human health, especially the neuroprotective and cardiovascular effects. Although ECH showed promising potential for treatment of Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases, some important issues arose. These included the identification of active metabolites as having poor bioavailability in prototype form, the definite molecular signal pathways or targets of ECH with the above effects, and limited reliable clinical trials. Thus, it remains unresolved as to whether scientific research can reasonably make use of this natural compound. A systematic summary and knowledge of future prospects are necessary to facilitate further studies for this natural product. The present review generalizes and analyzes the current knowledge on ECH, including its broad distribution, different preparation technologies, poor pharmacokinetics and kinds of therapeutic uses, and the future perspectives of its potential application.

Chlorogenic Acid Inhibits Liver Fibrosis by Blocking the miR-21-Regulated TGF-β1/Smad7 Signaling Pathway in Vitro and in Vivo

Aims: Chlorogenic acid (CGA) is a phenolic acid that has a wide range of pharmacological effects. However, the protective effects and mechanisms of CGA on liver fibrosis are not clear. This study explored the effects of CGA on miR-21-regulated TGF-β1/Smad7 liver fibrosis in the hepatic stellate LX2 cell line and in CCl4-induced liver fibrosis in Sprague-Dawley rats.

Methods: The mRNA expression of miR-21, Smad7, connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 1 (TIMP-1), matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) and the protein levels of Smad2, p-Smad2, Smad3, p-Smad3, Smad2/3, p-Smad2/3, Smad7, CTGF, α-SMA, TIMP-1, MMP-9 and TGF-β1 were assayed in LX2 cells and liver tissue. The effects of CGA after miR-21 knockdown or overexpression were analyzed in LX2 cells. The liver tissue and serum were collected for histopathological examination, immunohistochemistry (IHC) and ELISA.

Results: The mRNA expression of miR-21, CTGF, α-SMA, TIMP-1, and TGF-β1 and the protein expression of p-Smad2, p-Smad3, p-Smad2/3, CTGF, α-SMA, TIMP-1, and TGF-β1 were inhibited by CGA both in vitro and in vivo. Meanwhile, CGA elevated the mRNA and protein expression of Smad7 and MMP-9. After miR-21 knockdown and overexpression, the downstream molecules also changed accordingly. CGA also lessened the degree of liver fibrosis in the pathological manifestation and reduced α-SMA and collagen I expression in liver tissue and TGF-β1 in serum. Conclusion: CGA might relieve liver fibrosis through the miR-21-regulated TGF-β1/Smad7 signaling pathway, which suggests that CGA might be a new anti-fibrosis agent that improves liver fibrosis.

Herba Cistanches: Anti-aging

The Cistanche species ("Rou Cong Rong" in Chinese) is an endangered wild species growing in arid or semi-arid areas. The dried fleshy stem of Cistanches has been used as a tonic in China for many years. Modern pharmacological studies have since demonstrated that Herba Cistanches possesses broad medicinal functions, especially for use in anti-senescence, anti-oxidation, neuroprotection, anti-inflammation, hepatoprotection, immunomodulation, anti-neoplastic, anti-osteoporosis and the promotion of bone formation. This review summarizes the up-to-date and comprehensive information on Herba Cistanches covering the aspects of the botany, traditional uses, phytochemistry and pharmacology, to lay ground for fully elucidating the potential mechanisms of Herba Cistanches' anti-aging effect and promote its clinical application as an anti-aging herbal medicine.

Effect of echinacoside on kidney fibrosis by inhibition of TGF-β1/Smads signaling pathway in the db/db mice model of diabetic nephropathy

Kidney fibrosis and renal tubular epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) are the main pathological changes of diabetic nephropathy (DN), which eventually leads to end-stage renal disease. Previous studies have suggested that echinacoside (ECH) is antifibrotic in the liver. However, the effect of ECH on kidney fibrosis in DN and its mechanisms are unknown. This study was performed to explore the effect of ECH on kidney fibrosis and also the molecular mechanisms of ECH in a db/db mice model of DN. Our results showed that, relative to db/db mice, the mice in the ECH group had an improved general state and reduced blood glucose and 24-hour urinary protein levels. The deterioration of renal function was delayed due to treatment with ECH. We also observed that ECH can improve histopathological findings in the kidneys of db/db mice, including collagen deposition, mesangial cell and mesangial matrix hyperplasia, basement membrane thickening, and podocyte reduction. Moreover, ECH inhibited the TGF-β1/Smads signaling pathway, downregulated fibronectin (FN), collagen IV, and alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) levels, and upregulated E-cadherin level in the db/db mice model of DN. Our findings indicate that ECH has a therapeutic effect on DN, including the inhibition of renal tubular EMT and kidney fibrosis. Furthermore, ECH inhibits kidney fibrosis through regulation of the TGF-β1/Smads signaling pathway.

Smad7-overexpressing rat BMSCs inhibit the fibrosis of hepatic stellate cells by regulating the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are able to differentiate into hepatocytes, promote the regeneration of hepatic cells and inhibit the progression of hepatic fibrosis. Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 is one of the key factors in the development of liver fibrosis, which also promotes extracellular matrix (ECM) formation. Drosophila mothers against decapentaplegic 7 (Smad7) is an essential negative regulator in the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway. In the present study, bone mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) were isolated from rat bone marrow and transfected with lentiviral vectors carrying the Smad7 gene. Smad7-enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP)-BMSCs stably expressing Smad7 were subsequently co-cultured with hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) for 48 h. Smad7 and TGF-β1 levels in the culture medium were detected using ELISA, and the levels of collagen (Col) I, Col III, laminin (LN) and hyaluronic acid (HA) were measured using immunoassays. The early apoptosis rates of HSCs were determined via flow cytometry. Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blotting were performed to evaluate the mRNA and protein expression profiles, respectively. The results indicated that Smad7-EGFP-BMSCs stably expressing Smad7 were successfully constructed. Upon co-culturing with rat Smad7-EGFP-BMSCs, the early apoptotic rate of HSCs was significantly increased (P<0.05). Levels of Smad7 in the culture medium were also significantly increased (P<0.05), whereas the levels of TGF-β1, Col I, Col III, LN and HA were significantly decreased (P<0.05). Furthermore, the mRNA and protein levels of Smad7 and matrix metalloproteinase 1 were significantly increased (P<0.05), whereas those of TGF-β1, α-SMA, Smad2, smad3, TGF-β receptor I, Col I, tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinase-1 and Col III were significantly decreased. The results of the present study suggest that rat BMSCs overexpressing Smad7 may inhibit the fibrosis of HSCs by regulating the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway. This provides a novel insight into future treatments for liver fibrosis.

Stachytarpheta cayennensis extract inhibits promastigote and amastigote growth in Leishmania amazonensis via parasite arginase inhibition

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY RELEVANCE

Stachytarpheta cayennensis is a plant that is traditionally used to treat tegumentary leishmaniasis and as an anti-inflammatory agent.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to evaluate the action of S. cayennensis extracts on the Leishmania (Leishmania) amazonensis arginase enzyme.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

S. cayennensis was collected from the Brazilian Amazon region. Aqueous extracts were fractionated with n-butanol. The leishmanicidal effects of the n-butanolic fraction (BUF) were evaluated in L. (L.) amazonensis promastigotes and amastigotes. BUF was tested against recombinant arginase from both L. (L.) amazonensis and macrophage arginase. Promastigote cultures and infected macrophage cultures were supplemented with L-ornithine to verify arginase inhibition. NMR analysis was used to identify the major components of BUF.

RESULTS

BUF showed an EC₅₀ of 51 and 32µg/mL against promastigotes and amastigotes of L. (L.) amazonensis, respectively. BUF contains a mixture of verbascoside and isoverbascoside (7:3 ratio) and is a potent L. (L.) amazonensis arginase inhibitor (IC₅₀=1.2µg/mL), while macrophage arginase was weakly inhibited (IC₅₀>1000µg/mL). The inhibition of arginase by BUF in promastigotes and amastigotes could be demonstrated by culture media supplementation with L-ornithine, a product of the hydrolysis of L-arginine by arginase.

CONCLUSIONS

Leishmanicidal effects of the S. cayennensis BUF fraction on L. (L.) amazonensis are associated with selective parasite arginase inhibition.