Corynoline Isolated from Corydalis bungeana Turcz. Exhibits Anti-Inflammatory Effects via Modulation of Nfr2 and MAPKs

The potential application and molecular mechanisms of natural products in the treatment of allergic rhinitis: A review

BACKGROUNDS

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a non-infectious chronic inflammation of the nasal mucosa mainly mediated by immunoglobulin E (IgE) in atopic individuals after exposure to allergens. The application of AR guideline-recommended pharmacotherapies can rapidly relieve symptoms of AR but with poor long-term efficacy, and many of these therapies have side effects. Many natural products and their derivatives have shown potential therapeutic effects on AR with fewer side effects.

OBJECTIVES

This review aims to expand understanding of the roles and mechanisms of natural compounds in the treatment of AR and to highlight the importance of utilizing natural products in the treatment of AR.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

We conducted a systematic literature search using PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and Clinical Trials. The search was performed using keywords including natural products, natural compounds, bioproducts, plant extracts, naturally derived products, natural resources, allergic rhinitis, hay fever, pollinosis, nasal allergy. Comprehensive research and compilation of existing literature were conducted.

RESULTS

This article provided a comprehensive review of the potential therapeutic effects and mechanisms of natural compounds in the treatment of AR. We emphasized that natural products primarily exert their effects by modulating signalling pathways such as NF-κB, MAPKs, STAT3/ROR-γt/Foxp3, and GATA3/T-bet, thereby inhibiting the activation and expansion of allergic inflammation. We also discussed their toxicity and clinical applications in AR therapy.

CONCLUSION

Taken together, natural products exhibit great potential in the treatment of AR. This review is also expected to facilitate the application of natural products as candidates for treating AR. Furthermore, drug discovery based on natural products has a promising prospect in AR treatment.

Corydaline alleviates Parkinson's disease by regulating autophagy and GSK-3β phosphorylation

BACKGROUND

Jitai tablet, a traditional Chinese medicine, has a neuroprotective effect on 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1, 2, 3, 6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-induced Parkinson's disease (PD) mice. As one of the main active ingredients in the Jitai tablet, corydaline (Cory) has analgesic and anti-allergic effects, but it has not been studied in PD. Here, we investigated the role and mechanism of Cory in PD.

METHODS

The PD model was induced by MPTP. Cell viability was measured by 3-(4, 5)-dimethylthiahiazo (-z-y1)-3, 5-di-phenytetrazoliumromide assay. The Pole test and traction test were performed to detect the behaviors of mice. The expression of tyrosine hydroxylase (Th) was detected by immunohistochemistry and Western blot. Immunofluorescence staining, monodansylcadaverine staining, and Western blot were conducted to assess autophagy. A lactic dehydrogenase release assay was used to detect cytotoxicity. Network pharmacology was used to screen the targets.

RESULTS

There existed cytotoxicity when the concentration of Cory reached 40 μg/mL. Cory (not exceeding 20 μg/mL) could alleviate MPTP-induced cell damage. In vivo experiments indicated that Cory could improve the motor coordination of mice with PD. Besides, Cory could increase LC3-II/LC3-I levels both in vivo and in vitro. In addition, the Th levels reduced in the striatum and middle brain tissues of Parkinson's mice were recovered by Cory injection. We also found that Cory decreased the phosphorylation of glucogen synthase kinase-3 beta (GSK-3β) at Tyr216 and increased the phosphorylation of GSK-3β at Ser9 not only in primary neurons and SH-SY5Y cells but also in the striatum and middle brain tissues. Furthermore, Cory increased LC3-II/LC3-I levels and decreased p62 levels by regulating GSK-3β.

CONCLUSION

Cory enhanced autophagy, attenuated MPTP-induced cytotoxicity, and alleviated PD partly through the regulation of GSK-3β phosphorylation.

Corynoline Suppresses Osteoclastogenesis and Attenuates ROS Activities by Regulating NF-κB/MAPKs and Nrf2 Signaling Pathways

Declining estrogen production in postmenopausal females causes osteoporosis in which the resorption of bone exceeds the increase in bone formation. Although clinical drugs are currently available for the treatment of osteoporosis, sustained medication use is accompanied by serious side effects. Corydalis bungeana Herba, a famous traditional Chinese herb listed in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia Commission, constitutes various traditional Chinese Medicine prescriptions, which date back to thousands of years. One of the primary active components of C. bungeana Turcz. is Corynoline (Cor), a plant isoquinoline alkaloid derived from the Corydalis species, which possesses bone metabolism disease therapeutic potential. The study aimed at exploring the effects as well as mechanisms of Cor on osteoclast formation and bone resorption. TRAcP staining, F-actin belt formation, and pit formation were employed for assessing the osteoclast function. Western blot, qPCR, network pharmacology, and docking analyses were used for analyzing the expression of osteoclast-associated genes and related signaling pathways. The study focused on investigating how Cor affected OVX-induced trabecular bone loss by using a mouse model. Cor could weaken osteoclast formation and function by affecting the biological receptor activators of NF-κB and its ligand at various concentrations. Mechanistically, Cor inhibited the NF-κB activation, and the MAPKs pathway stimulated by RANKL. Besides, Cor enhanced the protein stability of the Nrf2, which effectively abolished the RANKL-stimulated ROS generation. According to an OVX mouse model, Cor functions in restoring bone mass, improving microarchitecture, and reducing the ROS levels in the distal femurs, which corroborated with its in vitro antiosteoclastogenic effect. The present study indicates that Cor may restrain osteoclast formation and bone loss by modulating NF-κB/MAPKs and Nrf2 signaling pathways. Cor was shown to be a potential drug candidate that can be utilized for the treatment of osteoporosis.

An integrated RNA-Seq and network pharmacology approach for exploring the preventive effect of Corydalis bungeana Turcz. Extract and Acetylcorynoline on LPS-induced acute lung injury

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Corydalis bungeana Turcz. (KDD) is a Chinese herbal medicine with anti-inflammatory, lung cleansing, detoxification and other functions. Clinically, it is commonly used to treat respiratory infections. This study uses ALI as the research model, which is consistent with the clinical use of KDD. Acetylcorynoline (AC) is the main alkaloid component of the KDD extracts, and network pharmacology studies suggest that it may be the main active ingredient in the prevention of ALI.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The aim of this study is to explore the underlying mechanisms and to study the efficacy material basis of KDD in anti-ALI effect by LPS-induced mice and using a combination of RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) technology and network pharmacology.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Establish a mouse model of ALI by intraperitoneal injection of LPS (5 mg/kg). The main active ingredients of KDD were identified and analyzed by high performance liquid chromatography with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (HPLC-QTOF-MS) and network pharmacology. IL-18, IL-1β, and IL-6 levels in serum and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), lung histopathological changes, and lung myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity were assessed. We investigated the possible molecular mechanisms of KDD and AC in an LPS-induced mouse ALI models with RNA-Seq technology. In addition, the anti-inflammatory effect of AC was verified in vitro by establishing an LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 inflammation model. Molecular docking further validated AC as the efficacy material basis of KDD in anti-ALI.

RESULTS

Based on HPLC-QTOF-MS technology and network pharmacology, KDD is more strongly associated with lung tissue, and that AC may be the main active ingredient of KDD. Subsequently, in vivo experiments results showed that KDD and AC reduced the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in serum and BALF, reduced MPO levels and reduced inflammatory damage in the lungs. To elucidate its underlying mechanism, based on RNA-Seq analysis techniques performed in lung tissue, enrichment analysis showed that KDD and AC intervened through the NLR signaling pathway, thereby mitigating LPS-induced ALI. Then, RT-qPCR, IF, WB and other technologies were used to verify the anti-ALI core difference genes of KDD and AC from the gene transcription and protein expression levels of the NLR signaling pathway, and confirmed the anti-ALI. In vitro experimental results also showed that AC has anti-inflammatory effects in RAW264.7. Finally, the biotransformation and molecular docking results also further indicated that AC is the active ingredient of KDD in anti-ALI.

CONCLUSIONS

Studies have shown that KDD has a good therapeutic effect on ALI, and AC is the main pharmacodynamic material basis for its therapeutic effect in ALI.

Corynoline inhibits esophageal squamous cell carcinoma growth via targeting Pim-3

BACKGROUND

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is an aggressive and deadly malignancy characterized by late-stage diagnosis, therapy resistance, and a poor 5-year survival rate. Finding novel therapeutic targets and their inhibitors for ESCC prevention and therapy is urgently needed.

METHODS

We investigated the proviral integration site for maloney murine leukemia virus 3 (Pim-3) protein levels using immunohistochemistry. Using Methyl Thiazolyl Tetrazolium and clone formation assay, we verified the function of Pim-3 in cell proliferation. The binding and inhibition of Pim-3 by corynoline were verified by computer docking, pull-down assay, cellular thermal shift assay, and kinase assay. Cell proliferation, Western blot, and a patient-derived xenograft tumor model were performed to elucidate the mechanism of corynoline inhibiting ESCC growth.

RESULTS

Pim-3 was highly expressed in ESCC and played an oncogenic role. The augmentation of Pim-3 enhanced cell proliferation and tumor development by phosphorylating mitogen-activated protein kinase 1 (MAPK1) at T185 and Y187. The deletion of Pim-3 induced apoptosis with upregulated cleaved caspase-9 and lower Bcl2 associated agonist of cell death (BAD) phosphorylation at S112. Additionally, binding assays demonstrated corynoline directly bound with Pim-3, inhibiting its activity, and suppressing ESCC growth.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that Pim-3 promotes ESCC progression. Corynoline inhibits ESCC progression through targeting Pim-3.

An integrated investigation of 16S rRNA gene sequencing and proteomics to elucidate the mechanism of Corydalis bungeana Turcz. on dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis

Corydalis bungeana Turcz. (CBT) is frequently used to treat inflammatory illnesses, the mechanisms underlying its use to ulcerative colitis (UC) remain unclear. A dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced UC mice model was established. The disease activity index (DAI), colonic length, histological inspection by hematoxylin-eosin staining, the cytokines levels in the colon, proteomics and intestinal flora in mice were investigated to evaluate the effect of CBT. The results showed that CBT can significantly reduce the DAI, increase the length of colon, improve the pathological injury of colon tissue, decrease the level of TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β and increase the level of IL-10 in UC mice. Gut microbe sequencing showed that CBT could enhance the abundance of the intestinal microbiome, decrease possibly harmful bacteria and promote potentially helpful microbes. Proteomics investigation showed that 20 overlapping differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were discovered in the control, model, and CBT administration groups. The DEPs in the CBT administration group were connected to biological procedures mainly involving detoxification. Extracellular matrix (ECM) receptor-associated proteins such as Col6a1 and CD36 may be important targets for CBT treatment of UC. Overall, this integrated methodology identified a comprehensive multi-omics network, composed of a certain set of gut microbiota and proteins, which may be potential targets for CBT treatment with UC.

Corynoline ameliorates dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis in mice by modulating Nrf2/NF-κB pathway

OBJECTIVE

Corynoline is an active substance extracted from Corydalis bungeana Turcz and exerts a therapeutic effect in multiple diseases by alleviating inflammatory response. The present study sought to elucidate the role of corynoline in ulcerative colitis (UC).

METHODS

The experimental colitis models were induced in BALB/c mice via receiving a drinking water supplemented with 3.5% (I) dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) ad libitum for 7 days.

RESULTS

Corynoline administration inhibited body weight loss, colon shortening, disease activity index and colonic pathomorphological changes in DSS-treated mice. Besides, corynoline down-regulated the levels of pro-inflammatory interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6 and tumor necrosis factor Alpha (TNF-α), as well as decreased myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity in the colon of DSS-treated mice. In addition, severe oxidative stress in the colonic tissues of DSS-treated was mitigated by corynoline treatment. However, these beneficial effects were reversed by a specific nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) inhibitor ML385 intervention. Further evidence confirmed that corynoline promoted Nrf2 nuclear migration and heme oxygenase-1 gene expression in the colonic tissues of UC mice. Besides, corynoline treatment restrained colonic nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) activation as proved by the decrease in phosphorylation and nuclear translocation of NF-κB.

CONCLUSIONS

Corynoline ameliorates DSS-induced mouse colitis, which may provide a promising therapeutic strategy for UC treatment.

Magnolol as a Protective Antioxidant Alleviates Rotenone-Induced Oxidative Stress and Liver Damage through MAPK/mTOR/Nrf2 in Broilers

This study aimed to investigate the protective effects and molecular mechanism of magnolol supplementation on rotenone-induced oxidative stress in broilers. Two hundred and eighty-eight old male AA broilers were randomly divided into four groups: the CON group: basic diet with sunflower oil injection; the ROT group: basic diet with 24 mg/kg BW rotenone; the MAG + ROT group: basic diet with 300 mg/kg magnolol and rotenone injection; and the MAG group: basic diet with 300 mg/kg magnolol and sunflower oil injection. At 21−27 days of age, the broilers in each group were intraperitoneally injected with rotenone (24 mg/kg BW) or the same volume of sunflower oil. The results showed that magnolol reversed the decrease in ADG post-injection and FBW via rotenone induction. Compared to the ROT group, MAG + ROT group enhanced the average daily gain post injection (p < 0.05). Magnolol supplement could improve the activity and mRNA expression of rotenone-suppressed antioxidant enzymes such as GSH and GSH-PX (p < 0.05). Similarly, the MDA content as an oxidative damage marker was significantly reduced after magnolol addition (p < 0.05). The hepatocyte apoptosis and the mRNA expression of apoptosis-related signaling pathway in the ROT group increased, but magnolol supplementation inhibited rotenone-induced apoptosis through the Nrf2 signaling pathway. Through RNA transcriptome analysis, there were 277 differential genes expressions (DEGs) among the CON group with ROT group, and 748 DEGs were found between the ROT group and the MAG + ROT group. KEGG pathway enrichment found that magnolol relieved rotenone-induced energy metabolism disorder and oxidative damage through signaling pathways such as MAPK and mTOR. In conclusion, magnolol attenuates rotenone-induced hepatic injury and oxidative stress of broilers, presumably by restoring hepatic antioxidant function via the MAPK/mTOR/Nrf2 signaling pathway.

Peptide Helix-Y12 as Potential Effector for Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptors

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are nuclear receptors involved in the regulation of lipids and glucose metabolism, and immune response. Therefore, they have been considered pharmacological targets for treating metabolic diseases, such as dyslipidemia, atherosclerosis, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. However, the available synthetic ligands of PPARs have mild to significant side effects, generating the necessity to identify new molecules that are selective PPAR ligands with specific biological responses. This study aimed to evaluate some components of the atheroprotective and hepatoprotective HB-ATV-8 nanoparticles [the amphipathic peptide Helix-Y¹², thermozeaxanthin, thermozeaxanthin-13, thermozeaxanthin-15, and a set of glycolipids], as possible ligands of PPARs through blind molecular docking. According to the change in free energy upon protein-ligand binding, ∆G _b, thermozeaxanthins show a more favorable interaction with PPARs, followed by Helix-Y¹². Moreover, Helix-Y¹² interacts with most parts of the Y-shaped ligand-binding domain (LBD), surrounding helix 3 of PPARs, and reaching helix 12 of PPARα and PPARγ. As previously reported for other ligands, Tyr314 and Tyr464 of PPARα interact with Helix-Y¹² through hydrogen bonds. Several PPARα's amino acids are involved in the ligand binding by hydrophobic interactions. Furthermore, we identified additional PPARs' amino acids interacting with Helix-Y¹² through hydrogen bonds still not reported for known ligands. Our results show that, from the studied ligand set, the Helix-Y¹² peptide and Tzeaxs have the most significant probability of binding to the PPARs' LBD, suggesting novel ligands for PPARs.

Corynoline protects against zearalenone-induced liver injury by activating the SIRT1/Nrf2 signaling pathway

Corynoline has been reported to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidative effects. In the present study, the potential protective effects of corynoline against zearalenone (ZEA)-induced liver injury were investigated. ZEA was administered daily for 5 days. Then, liver tissues were used for subsequent experiments. Corynoline attenuated liver histopathological changes induced by ZEA. The production of tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-1β in liver tissues, as well as aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase in serum, was also inhibited by corynoline. Meanwhile, ZEA-induced MPO activity and MDA content were both attenuated by corynoline. ZEA-induced NF-κB p65 and IκBα phosphorylation were inhibited by corynoline. Furthermore, SIRT1, Nrf2, and HO-1 expression were increased by corynoline. In addition, the protective effects of corynoline against liver injury were reversed by the SIRT1 inhibitor EX-527. Taken together, corynoline protected against ZEA-induced liver injury by activating the SIRT1/Nrf2 signaling pathway.

Pyrus ussuriensis Maxim 70% ethanol eluted fraction ameliorates inflammation and oxidative stress in LPS-induced inflammation in vitro and in vivo

Pyrus ussuriensis Maxim (PUM) is a popular fruit among consumers, and also used as medical diet for dissolving phlegm and arresting cough. The present study aims to investigate the potential protective effect of P. ussuriensis Maxim 70% ethanol eluted fraction (PUM70) on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced alveolar macrophages and acute lung injury (ALI) in mice. A total of 18 polyphenol compounds were tentatively identified in PUM70 by mass spectrometry (MS) analysis. The results in vivo suggested that PUM70 treatment could effectively alleviate the histological changes, and significantly inhibit the activity of myeloperoxidase (MPO) and the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and interleukin-6 (IL-6)). The cell test results show that PUM70 exerted its protective effect by suppressing the messenger RNA (mRNA) expression levels (inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and decreasing nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin 2 (PGE2) contents. In addition, it also inhibited the overproduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6). Furthermore, PUM70 induced the production of heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) protein and nuclear translocation of Nrf2 (nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2), indicating that PUM70 could mitigate oxidative injury via the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway. Moreover, PUM70 inhibited LPS-induced inflammation by blocking the phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs). The above results indicate that PUM70 has protective effects on LPS-induced ALI, possibly be related to the inhibition of MAPK and Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathways.

Corynoline Alleviates Osteoarthritis Development via the Nrf2/NF-κB Pathway

Purpose

OA is a multifactorial joint disease in which inflammation plays a substantial role in the destruction of joints. Corynoline (COR), a component of Corydalis bungeana Turcz., has anti-inflammatory effects.

Materials and Methods

We evaluated the significance and potential mechanisms of COR in OA development. The viabilities of chondrocytic cells upon COR exposure were assessed by CCK-8 assays. Western blot, qPCR, and ELISA were used to assess extracellular matrix (ECM) degeneration and inflammation. The NF-κB pathway was evaluated by western blot and immunofluorescence (IF). Prediction of the interacting proteins of COR was done by molecular docking, while Nrf2 knockdown by siRNAs was performed to ascertain its significance. Micro-CT, H&E, Safranin O-Fast Green (S-O), toluidine blue staining, and immunohistochemical examination were conducted to assess the therapeutic effects of COR on OA in destabilization of medial meniscus (DMM) models.

Results

COR inhibited ECM degeneration and proinflammatory factor levels and modulated the NF-κB pathway in IL-1β-treated chondrocytes. Mechanistically, COR bound Nrf2 to downregulate the NF-κB pathway. Moreover, COR ameliorated the OA process in DMM models.

Conclusion

We suggest that COR ameliorates OA progress through the Nrf2/NF-κB axis, indicating COR may have a therapeutic potential for OA.

L, Li H, Ba G, Cho S. Metabolomics investigation on antiobesity effects of Corydalis bungeana on high-fat high-sugar diet-induced obese rats

Objective

Corydalis bungeana (CB) is a well-used medicinal herb in Mongolian folk medicine and has been traditionally applied as an antiobesity agent. However, the evidence-based pharmacological effects of CB and its specific metabolic alterations in the obese model are not entirely understood. This study aimed to utilize untargeted metabolomic techniques to identify biomarkers and gain mechanistic insight into the serum metabolite alterations associated with weight loss and lipid metabolism in obese rats.

Methods

A high-fat high-sugar (HFHS) diet was used to induce obese models in rats. CB extract was orally gavaged at 0.18, 0.9 and 1.8 g/kg doses for six weeks, and feed intake, body weight, fat pad weight, and blood indexes were measured. Blood serum metabolites were evaluated by gas chromatography/quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (GC-TOF/MS).

Results

The results showed that compared with the obese group, the administration of CB extract caused significant decreases in body weight (P < 0.05), feed intake, Lee's index, and perirenal, mesenteric, epididymal fat weight. CB extract also reduced blood triglyceride and total cholesterol levels (P < 0.05) of obese rats. Metabolomic findings showed that nine differential metabolites, including pyruvic acid, D-glucuronic acid, malic acid, dimethylglycine, oxoglutaric acid, pantothenic acid, sorbitol acid, fumaric acid and glucose 6-phosphate were identified under CB treatment and altered metabolic pathways such as TCA cycle, pantothenate and CoA biosynthesis, and glycolysis/gluconeogenesis.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated weight loss and lipid lowering effects of CB on HFHS diet-induced obese rats and identified nine metabolites as potential biomarkers for evaluating the favorable therapeutic mechanism of CB via regulation of lipid and glucose metabolism.

Antinociceptive and Anti-inflammatory Effect of Corynoline in Different Nociceptive and Inflammatory Experimental Models

Pain is growing to be a massive health issue across the globe. It is reported that one in every five adults tends to suffer from pain worldwide each year, regardless of age and gender. Inflammation caused by tissue damage, chemical stimulus, and foreign substances is commonly associated with pain. Inflammatory pain is mainly caused by the direct effect of inflammatory mediators on particular classes of nociceptive neurons. In the current investigation, the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effect of corynoline, a phytochemical compound isolated from Corydalis bungeana Turcz., has been evaluated in experimental mice. The experimental mice were divided into 5 groups of 6 animals each. The first control group was fed with water. The second, third, and fourth groups received different doses of corynoline and the fifth group of mice received positive controls. Nociception was induced with the help of acetic acid, formalin, glutamate, capsaicin, hot plate, and tail immersion in mice whereas carrageenan was used to induce inflammation. The peritoneal cavity leukocyte infiltration and pro-inflammatory mediator generation were also analyzed to confirm the anti-inflammatory effect and the natural locomotor activity was determined using an open field test. Corynoline treatment significantly suppressed the paw licking, writhing in the abdominal region, and displayed high nociceptive inhibitory reaction in a dose-related manner. Additionally, corynoline significantly reduced the carrageenan-triggered paw edema and also reduced the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Thus, the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activity of corynoline has been successfully established.

Corynoline protects lipopolysaccharide-induced mastitis through regulating AKT/GSK3β/Nrf2 signaling pathway

Inflammation has been known to be involved in the pathogenesis of mastitis. And anti-inflammatory agent is proposed to be a possible efficient therapeutic strategy for mastitis. Corynoline, a bioactive compound extracted from Corydalis bungeana Turcz., has been reported to have anti-inflammatory effect. However, whether corynoline has protective effect against mastitis remains unclear. The aim of this study was to evaluate the protective effect of corynoline on LPS-induced mastitis in mice. Inflammatory cytokine production was measured by ELISA. The proteins of signaling pathways were detected by western blot analysis. The results showed that treatment of corynoline at the doses of 15, 30, and 60 mg/kg significantly attenuated LPS-induced pathological damage of mammary tissues. Corynoline also ameliorated LPS-induced MPO activity, MDA content, and inflammatory cytokine TNF-α and IL-1β production in mammary tissues. LPS-induced NF-κB activation was inhibited by corynoline. Furthermore, our results showed corynoline significantly increased the expression of Nrf2 and the phosphorylation levels of AKT and GSK3β. In conclusion, our results indicated that corynoline protected against LPS-induced mastitis through regulating AKT/GSK3β/Nrf2 signaling pathway, which subsequently led to the inhibition of NF-κB and inflammatory response.

Systematic review of the alkaloid constituents in several important medicinal plants of the Genus Corydalis

The genus Corydalis is a botanical source of various pharmaceutically active components. Its member species have been widely used in traditional medicine systems in Southeast Asia, especially in China for thousands of years. They have been administered to treat the common cold, hypertension, hepatitis, hemorrhage, edema, gastritis, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, and neurological disorders. Analgesia is the most important effect of Corydalis products, which are relatively non-addictive and associated with low tolerance compared with other analgesics. Certain Corydalis species are rich in alkaloids, which have strong biological activity, and also contain coumarins, flavonoids, steroids, organic acids and other chemical components. These constituents have pharmacological efficacy against diseases of the nervous, cardiovascular and digestive systems. Numerous investigations have been performed on these plants and their components. Here, we systemically summarized the chemical constituents of important medicinal member species of Corydalis that have been reported since 1962. A total 381 alkaloids were enumerated, including 117 quaternary isoquinoline type, 60 Benzophenanthridine type, 37 aporphine type, 10 protopine type, 59 phthalide isoquinoline type, 52 simple isoquinoline-type, 25 lignin amides and 21 other alkaloids. Thus, we have provided a basis for further explorations into the pharmacologically active constituents of Corydalissp.(Papaveraceae) to develop medicines that exert strong effects, are relatively non-addictive, and result in few side effects.

Biologically active isoquinoline alkaloids covering 2014-2018

Isoquinoline alkaloids, an important class of N-based heterocyclic compounds, have attracted considerable attention from researchers worldwide since the early 19th century. Over the past 200 years, many compounds from this class were isolated, and most of them and their analogs possess various bioactivities. In this review, we survey the updated literature on bioactive alkaloids and highlight research achievements of this alkaloid class during the period of 2014-2018. We reviewed over 400 molecules with a broad range of bioactivities, including antitumor, antidiabetic and its complications, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, antiparasitic, insecticidal, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, neuroprotective, and other activities. This review should provide new indications or directions for the discovery of new and better drugs from the original naturally occurring isoquinoline alkaloids.

Protective effect of corynoline in a murine allergic rhinitis model via inhibition of caspase-1/NF-κB

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a serious public health concern worldwide. Therefore, the present study was conducted to scrutinize the protective effect of corynoline (COR) against ovalbumin (OVA)-induced AR in BALB/c mice. The effect of COR was investigated on various parameters, such as nose-rub score, histamine intensity, level of cytokines, and NF-κB binding activity. It was found that COR causes a significant reduction in the nose-rub score with a reduction in histamine intensity. It also causes reductions in cytokines, such as TNF-α, IL-1β, and MIP-2, in comparison to OVA-challenged mice. COR reduces the gene expression of active caspase-1 in Western blot analysis, together with inhibition of NF-κB binding activity. The inhibitory effect on NF-κB binding was further substantiated by docking analysis, where COR excellently docked into the active site of NF-κB via the creation of H-bond and π-cation interactions with Lys145. Taken altogether, our results demonstrated that COR could be used as a potential therapeutic agent against AR.

Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects of Carpesium cernuum L. Methanolic Extract in LPS-Stimulated RAW 264.7 Macrophages

A hypernomic reaction or an abnormal inflammatory process could cause a series of diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, neurodegeneration, and cancer. Additionally, oxidative stress has been identified to induce severe tissue injury and inflammation. Carpesium cernuum L. (C. cernuum) is a Chinese folk medicine used for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and detoxifying properties. However, the underlying molecular mechanism of C. cernuum in inflammatory and oxidative stress conditions remains largely unknown. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of a methanolic extract of C. cernuum (CLME) on lipopolysaccharide- (LPS-) induced RAW 264.7 mouse macrophages and a sepsis mouse model. The data presented in this study indicated that CLME inhibited LPS-induced production of proinflammatory mediators such as nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂) in RAW 264.7 cells. CLME treatment also reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and enhanced the expression of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) protein in a dose-dependent manner in the LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. Moreover, CLME treatment abolished the nuclear translocation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), enhanced the activation of nuclear factor-erythroid 2 p45-related factor 2 (Nrf2), and reduced the expression of extracellular signal-related kinase (ERK) and ERK kinase (MEK) phosphorylation in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. These outcomes implied that CLME could be a potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent.

Ultrahigh Performance Liquid Chromatography-Electrospray Ionization Tandem Mass Spectrometry Method for Qualitative and Quantitative Analyses of Constituents of Corydalis bungeana Turcz Extract

In this study, the constituents of a Corydalis bungeana Turcz extract were qualitatively analyzed using gradient elution with a mobile phase of 0.2% acetic acid and acetonitrile. We obtained comprehensive insight into the constituents of C. bungeana Turcz extracts through the quantitative analysis of 14 compounds by comparison with authentic reference standards, and tentatively identified an additional 44 compounds through electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) and tandem MS detection. The separation was successfully achieved using an Agilent SB-C₁₈ column (1.8 µm, 150 × 2.1 mm; Agilent, Santa, CA, USA). A tandem quadrupole spectrometer was operated in either full-scan mode or multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) for the qualitative and quantitative analyses of the constituents, respectively. Validation data (inter-day and intra-day combined) for accuracy and precision ranged from -4.80% to 4.73%, and 0.30% to 4.97%, respectively. An ultrahigh performance liquid chromatographic-ESI-tandem MS (UHPLC-ESI-MS/MS) method for qualitative of C. bungeana Turcz (C. bungeana) extract and the quantification of 14 alkaloids, namely, A-N, was developed and validated. Quantitative analysis involved gradient elution with a mobile phase of 0.1% acetic acid and methanol for 45 min. The separation was successfully achieved using a Waters SB-C₁₈ column (1.8 µm, 100 mm × 2.1 mm, Waters, Milford, Massachusetts, USA). The repeatability and stability of the method also met USFDA criteria with CV values lower than 5%. The limit of detection of the 14 alkaloids ranged from 9.74 to 13.00 ng/mL, whereas the linearities of the standard curves were between 0.9991 and 0.9995. In total, 15 commercial samples from 11 different sources were analyzed.

Di (2-ethyl hexyl) phthalate (DEHP)-induced spleen toxicity in quail (Coturnix japonica) via disturbing Nrf2-mediated defense response

Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), as a widely used plasticizer, is reported to have widespread environmental and global health hazards. Trace amounts of phthalates in the environment are sufficient to disrupt ecological balance and affect human health. However, DEHP-induced splenic toxicity remains in an unknown state. Therefore, to explore the mechanism of DEHP-induced splenic toxicity, male quail were employed with 0, 250, 500 and 750 mg/kg body weight DEHP by daily gastric perfusion for 45 days. Notably, splenic corpuscular border and cell gap enlargement were observed in the spleen tissue of DEHP-exposed quail under the histopathological analysis. Furthermore, DEHP induced dysregulation of oxidative stress markers by increasing malondialdehyde (MDA) content and decreasing superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and catalase (CAT) activities. Low concentration of DEHP (≤250 mg/kg) exposure suppressed nuclear factor-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling pathway, while high concentration of DEHP (≥500 mg/kg) exposure activated Nrf2-mediated defense response. DEHP induced splenic oxidative stress via interfering Nrf2 signal pathway and altering the transcription of its downstream genes. In conclusion, this study suggested that DEHP induced splenic toxicity.

Anti-neuroinflammatory effect of 6,8,1'-tri-O-methylaverantin, a metabolite from a marine-derived fungal strain Aspergillus sp., via upregulation of heme oxygenase-1 in lipopolysaccharide-activated microglia

In the course of searching for anti-neuroinflammatory metabolites from marine-derived fungi, three fungal metabolites, 6,8,1'-tri-O-methylaverantin, 6,8-di-O-methylaverufin, and 5-methoxysterigmatocystin were isolated from a marine-derived fungal strain Aspergillus sp. SF-6796. Among these, 6,8,1'-tri-O-methylaverantin induced the expression of heme oxygenase (HO)-1 protein in BV2 microglial cells. The induction of HO-1 protein was mediated by the activation of nuclear transcription factor erythroid-2 related factor 2 (Nrf2), and was regulated by the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B signaling pathways. Furthermore, 6,8,1'-tri-O-methylaverantin suppressed the overproduction of pro-inflammatory mediators, such as nitric oxide, prostaglandin E₂, inducible nitric oxide synthase, and cyclooxygenase-2 in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated BV2 microglial cells. These anti-neuroinflammatory effects were mediated through the negative regulation of the nuclear factor kappa B pathway, repressing the phosphorylation and degradation of inhibitor kappa B-α, translocation into the nucleus of p65/p50 heterodimer, and DNA-binding activity of p65 subunit. The anti-neuroinflammatory effect of 6,8,1'-tri-O-methylaverantin was partially blocked by a selective HO-1 inhibitor, suggesting that its anti-neuroinflammatory effect is at least partly mediated by HO-1 induction. In this study, 6,8,1'-tri-O-methylaverantin also induced HO-1 protein expression in primary microglial cells, and this correlated with anti-neuroinflammatory effects observed in LPS-stimulated primary microglial cells. In conclusion, 6,8,1'-tri-O-methylaverantin represents a potential candidate for use in the development of therapeutic agents for the regulation of neuroinflammation in neurodegenerative diseases.

The Effect of Pudilan Anti-Inflammatory Oral Liquid on the Treatment of Mild Recurrent Aphthous Ulcers

Recurrent aphthous ulcers are the most common recurrent oral mucosal lesions characterized by recurrence and pain. The aim of this research is to evaluate the short-term curative effect of the traditional Chinese medicine “Pudilan anti-inflammatory oral liquid” on mild recurrent aphthous ulcers. A total of 234 patients were divided into a treatment group and a control group. Both groups used vitamin B₂ as the basis of treatment. The treatment group took a Pudilan anti-inflammatory oral solution for 8 days while the control group was given a liquid placebo. The ulcer size, pseudomembrane, peripheral congestion, and pain scores of the treatment group were lower than before treatment. The curative effect on the Pudilan group was statistically significant compared with the control group. The final therapeutic effect on the treatment group was better than that on the control group. The healing time of mild recurrent aphthous ulcers can be shortened by Pudilan anti-inflammatory oral liquid, and pain is relieved without adverse reactions. Pudilan provides a new reference drug for the treatment of mild recurrent oral ulcers.

Allium hookeri root extract exerts anti-inflammatory effects by nuclear factor-κB down-regulation in lipopolysaccharide-induced RAW264.7 cells

Background

Allium hookeri (AH) is widely consumed as a vegetable and herbal medicine in southeastern Asia. AH has been reported antioxidant, antimicrobial, improvement of bone health and antidiabetic effects. In the present study, we investigated the inhibitory effect of a methanol extract of AH root (AHE) on inflammatory response in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW264.7 cells.

Methods

Initially, characterization of organic sulfur compounds in AHE was determined using high performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry (HPLC-ESI-MS). Cells were incubated with LPS and AHE for 24 h. The productions of nitric oxide (NO), reactive oxygen species (ROS), and inflammation-related cytokines were examined. Gene and protein expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) were assessed by polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting. Key factor, nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) was also determined.

Results

AHE contained organosulfur compounds such as alliin and S-allylcysteine by HPLC-ESI-MS. AHE significantly inhibited NO, ROS, and cytokines production in LPS-induced RAW264.7 cells. In addition, AHE treatment inhibited iNOS and COX-2 mRNA and protein levels, leading to a decrease in iNOS-derived NO level. Furthermore, NF-κB activation was, at least in part, suppressed by AHE treatment.

Conclusion

Our data suggest that AHE treatment inhibits the inflammation condition through suppression of iNOS and COX-2 expression via NF-κB down-regulation.

Corydalis bungeana Turcz. attenuates LPS-induced inflammatory responses via the suppression of NF-κB signaling pathway in vitro and in vivo

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Corydalis bungeana Turcz. (C. bungeana) is one of traditionally used medicines in China and possesses various biological effects, such as anti-inflammatory, antibacterial activity and inhibition of the immune function of the host.

AIM OF THE STUDY

we studied the anti-inflammatory effect and molecular mechanism involved of C. bungeana both in vitro and in vivo model system in which the inflammatory response was induced by LPS treatment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Anti-inflammatory activity of C. bungeana was investigated by LPS-induced RAW 264.7 macrophages and BALB/c mice. The production and expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines were evaluated by Griess reagent, ELISA kits and RT-qPCR, respectively. Phosphorylation status of IκBα and p65 was illustrated by western blot assay.

RESULTS

C. bungeana reduced the secretion of NO, TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β through inhibiting the protein expression of iNOS, TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β in vitro and in vivo. Western blot analysis suggested that C. bungeana supressed NF-κB activation via regulating the phosphorylation of IκBα and p65. Immunohistochemical assay also demostrated the histological inflammatory change in liver tissue.

CONCLUSIONS

The results indicate that C. bungeana supresses the activation of NF-κB signaling pathway through inhibiting phosphorylation of IκBα and p65, which results in good anti-inflammatory effect. In addition, C. bungeana attenuates inflammatory reaction by supressing the expression of various inflammatory cytokines both in vivo and in vitro.