Simultaneous Quantitative Analysis of Ginsenosides Isolated from the Fruit of Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer and Regulation of HO-1 Expression through EGFR Signaling Has Anti-Inflammatory and Osteogenic Induction Effects in HPDL Cells

Oroxylin A inhibits inflammatory cytokines in periodontitis via HO‑1

Periodontal disease is a common infectious disease that can lead to the loss of teeth. Hower how to effectively suppress the inflammation with medication is unclear. The aim of the present study was to investigate the anti‑inflammatory effect of Oroxylin A in periodontitis and its potential role through heme oxygenase‑1 (HO‑1). Primary rat gingival fibroblasts (RGFs) were cultured using the tissue block method and identified by immunofluorescence. Following lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation of RGFs, Oroxylin A was administered at 50, 100, 200 or 400 µg/ml. Reverse transcription‑quantitative PCR was used to assess mRNA expression of cyclooxygenase (COX)‑2, TNF‑α, RANKL and osteoprotegerin (OPG). Western blotting was used to detect protein expression levels of COX ‑2, TNF‑α, RANKL and OPG. Following HO‑1 knockdown, the same treatment was performed. The expression of COX‑2 in rat gingival tissue was observed by immunohistochemistry. One‑way analysis of variance and Student's t test were used for statistical analysis. Oroxylin A downregulated mRNA expression of COX‑2, TNF‑α, RANKL and OPG in LPS‑induced RGFs. With increase of Oroxylin A dose, the expression of HO‑1 was gradually upregulated. When HO‑1 was knocked down, Oroxylin A did not downregulate the expression of COX‑2, TNF‑α, RANKL and OPG in LPS‑induced RGFs. Immunohistochemical results showed that expression of COX‑2 was downregulated by Oroxylin A, and the expression of TNF‑α, RANKL and OPG were also downregulated. Oroxylin A decreased expression of inflammatory cytokines in LPS‑induced RGFs and had a good inhibitory effect on periodontitis in rats.

Research progress of the mechanisms and applications of ginsenosides in promoting bone formation

BACKGROUND

Bone deficiency-related diseases caused by various factors have disrupted the normal function of the skeleton and imposed a heavy burden globally, urgently requiring potential new treatments. The multi-faceted role of compounds like ginsenosides and their interaction with the bone microenvironment, particularly osteoblasts can promote bone formation and exhibit anti-inflammatory, vascular remodeling, and antibacterial properties, holding potential value in the treatment of bone deficiency-related diseases and bone tissue engineering.

PURPOSE

This review summarizes the interaction between ginsenosides and osteoblasts and the bone microenvironment in bone formation, including vascular remodeling and immune regulation, as well as their therapeutic potential and toxicity in the broad treatment applications of bone deficiency-related diseases and bone tissue engineering, to provide novel insights and treatment strategies.

METHODS

The literature focusing on the mechanisms and applications of ginsenosides in promoting bone formation before March 2024 was searched in PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Science Direct databases. Keywords such as "phytochemicals", "ginsenosides", "biomaterials", "bone", "diseases", "bone formation", "microenvironment", "bone tissue engineering", "rheumatoid arthritis", "periodontitis", "osteoarthritis", "osteoporosis", "fracture", "toxicology", "pharmacology", and combinations of these keywords were used.

RESULTS

Ginsenoside monomers regulate signaling pathways such as WNT/β-catenin, FGF, and BMP/TGF-β, stimulating osteoblast generation and differentiation. It exerts angiogenic and anti-inflammatory effects by regulating the bone surrounding microenvironment through signaling such as WNT/β-catenin, NF-κB, MAPK, PI3K/Akt, and Notch. It shows therapeutic effects and biological safety in the treatment of bone deficiency-related diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, periodontitis, osteoporosis, and fractures, and bone tissue engineering by promoting osteogenesis and improving the microenvironment of bone formation.

CONCLUSION

The functions of ginsenosides are diverse and promising in treating bone deficiency-related diseases and bone tissue engineering. Moreover, potential exists in regulating the bone microenvironment, modifying biomaterials, and treating inflammatory-related bone diseases and dental material applications. However, the mechanisms and effects of some ginsenoside monomers are still unclear, and the lack of clinical research limits their clinical application. Further exploration and evaluation of the potential of ginsenosides in these areas are expected to provide more effective methods for treating bone defects.

Therapeutic Potential of Ginsenosides on Bone Metabolism: A Review of Osteoporosis, Periodontal Disease and Osteoarthritis

Ginsenosides, bioactive compounds from the genus Panax, have potential therapeutic effects on diverse ailments, including diabetes. Emerging evidence suggests their involvement in bone metabolism. The present review summarizes the current understanding of the effects of ginsenosides on osteoporosis, periodontal disease, and osteoarthritis. Their mechanisms of action include effects on osteoblasts, osteoclasts, periodontal ligament fibroblasts (PDLFs), and chondrocytes, which are pivotal in maintaining bone, periodontal tissue, and cartilage homeostasis. Ginsenosides may exert their beneficial effects by enhancing PDLF and osteoblast activity, suppressing osteoclast function, augmenting chondrocyte synthesis in the cartilage matrix, and mitigating connective tissue degradation. Moreover, they possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anti-pyroptotic properties. Their efficacy in increasing bone density, ameliorating periodontitis, and alleviating osteoarthritis symptoms has been demonstrated in preclinical studies using animal models. In terms of their mechanism of action, ginsenosides modulate cellular differentiation, activity, and key signaling pathway molecules, such as mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), while also regulating various mediators. Furthermore, the symptomatic relief observed in animal models lends further credence to their therapeutic utility. However, to translate these preclinical findings into clinical practice, rigorous animal and clinical investigations are imperative to ascertain the safety, efficacy, and optimal dosing regimens in human subjects.

Mechanisms with network pharmacology approach of Ginsenosides in Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease characterized by memory loss, cognitive disorder, language dysfunction, and mental disability. The main neuropathological changes in AD mainly include amyloid plaque deposition, neurofibrillary tangles, synapse loss, and neuron reduction. However, the current anti-AD drugs do not demonstrate a favorable effect in altering the pathological course of AD. Moreover, long-term use of these drugs is usually accompanied with various side effects. Ginsenosides are the major active constituents of ginseng and have protective effects on AD through various mechanisms in both in vivo and in vitro studies. In this review, we focused on discussing the therapeutic potential effects and the mechanisms of pharmacological activities of ginsenosides in AD, to provide new insight for further research and clinical application of ginsenosides in the future. Recent studies on the pharmacological effects and mechanisms of ginsenosides were retrieved from Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure, National Science and Technology Library, Wanfang Data, Elsevier, ScienceDirect, PubMed, SpringerLink, and the Web of Science database up to April 2023 using relevant keywords. Network pharmacology and bioinformatics analysis were used to predict the therapeutic effects and mechanisms of ginsenosides against AD. Ginsenosides presented a wide range of therapeutic and biological activities, including alleviating Aβ deposition, decreasing tau hyperphosphorylation, regulating the cholinergic system, resisting oxidative stress, modulating Ca2+ homeostasis, as well as anti-inflammation and anti-apoptosis in neurons, respectively. For further developing the therapeutic potential as well as clinical applications, the network pharmacology approach was combined with a summary of published studies.

Resveratrol modulates the inflammatory response in hPDLSCs via the NRF2/HO-1 and NF-κB pathways and promotes osteogenic differentiation

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to investigate resveratrol's specific role as an anti-inflammatory and osteogenic differentiation of hPDLSCs in periodontitis and to reveal the mechanisms involved.

BACKGROUND

Numerous studies have shown that inhibiting the inflammatory response of periodontal tissues and promoting the regeneration of alveolar bone are crucial treatments for periodontitis. Resveratrol has been found to have certain anti-inflammatory property. However, the anti-inflammatory mechanism and osteogenic effect of resveratrol in periodontitis are poorly understood.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We constructed an in vitro periodontitis model by LPS stimulation of hPDLSCs and performed WB, RT-qPCR, and immunofluorescence to analyze inflammatory factors and related pathways. In addition, we explored the osteogenic ability of resveratrol in in vitro models.

RESULTS

In vitro, resveratrol ameliorated the inflammatory response associated with activation of the NF-κB pathway through activation of the NRF2/HO-1 pathway, characterized by inhibition of p65/p50 nuclear translocation and the proinflammatory cytokines interleukin-1β levels. Resveratrol also has a positive effect on osteogenic differentiation.

CONCLUSIONS

Observations suggest that resveratrol modulates the inflammatory response in hPDLSCs via the NRF2/HO-1 and NF-κB pathways and promotes osteogenic differentiation.

The Potential of Korean Bioactive Substances and Functional Foods for Immune Enhancement

In this review, we explore the immunomodulatory properties of Korean foods, focusing on ginseng and fermented foods. One notable example is Korean red ginseng, known for its immune system-regulating effects attributed to the active ingredient, ginsenoside. Ginsenoside stimulates immune cells, enhancing immune function and suppressing inflammatory responses. With a long history, Korean red ginseng has demonstrated therapeutic effects against various diseases. Additionally, Korean fermented foods like kimchi, doenjang, chongkukjang, gochujang, vinegar, and jangajji provide diverse nutrients and bioactive substances, contributing to immune system enhancement. Moreover, traditional Korean natural herbs such as Cirsium setidens Nakai, Gomchwi, Beak-Jak-Yak, etc. possess immune-boosting properties and are used in various Korean foods. By incorporating these foods into one's diet, one can strengthen their immune system, positively impacting their overall health and well-being.

Potential Oral Health Benefits of Ginseng and Its Extracts

This review discusses the effects of ginseng and its extracts in the treatment of dental caries, periodontal diseases, endodontic diseases, oral cancers, oral mucosal diseases, and some other dental associations. In the meantime, bioavailability and safety application of ginseng products are discussed. All of the articles reviewed were from PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang Data, and VIP Chinese Science and Technology Periodicals Full-Text Database through November 2022, including full-text English or non-English publications. Ginseng and its extracts were shown to have beneficial effects on oral diseases, and further studies are needed to understand the mechanisms and confirm the effects in humans.

Synthesis of Carboxyl Modified Polyether Polysiloxane Surfactant for the Biodegradable Foam Fire Extinguishing Agents

It is necessary to develop novel and efficient alternatives to fluorocarbon surfactant and prepare fluorine-free environmentally-friendly fire extinguishing agent. The carboxyl modified polyether polysiloxane surfactant (CMPS) with high surface activity was synthesized via the esterification reaction using hydroxyl-containing polyether modified polysiloxane (HPMS) and maleic anhydride (MA) as raw materials. The process conditions of the esterification reaction were optimized by orthogonal tests, and the optimum process parameters were determined as follows: reaction temperature of 85 °C, reaction time of 4.5 h, isopropyl alcohol content of 20% and the molar ratio of HPMS/MA of 1/1. The chemical structure, surface activity, aggregation behavior, foam properties, wetting properties and electron distribution were systematically investigated. It was found that the carboxyl group was successfully grafted into silicone molecule, and the conjugated system was formed, which changed the interaction force between the molecules and would affect the surface activity of the aqueous solution. The CMPS exhibited excellent surface activity and could effectively reduce the water's surface tension to 18.46 mN/m. The CMPS formed spherical aggregates in aqueous solution, and the contact angle value of CMPS is 15.56°, illustrating that CMPS had excellent hydrophilicity and wetting performance. The CMPS can enhance the foam property and has good stability. The electron distribution results indicate that the introduced carboxyl groups are more inclined towards the negative charge band, which would be conducive to weak the interaction between molecules and improve the surface activity of the solution. Consequently, new foam fire extinguishing agents were prepared by using CMPS as a key component and they exhibited excellent fire-fighting performance. The prepared CMPS would be the optimal alternative to fluorocarbon surfactant and could be applied in foam extinguishing agents.

Autophagy-Related Genes Predict the Progression of Periodontitis Through the ceRNA Network

Purpose

The goal of this study was to identify the crucial autophagy-related genes (ARGs) in periodontitis and construct mRNA-miRNA-lncRNA networks to further understand the pathogenesis of periodontitis.

Methods

We used the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database and Human Autophagy Database (HADb) to identify differentially expressed mRNAs, miRNAs, and ARGs. These ARGs were subjected to Gene Ontology (GO), KEGG (Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes) pathway, and PPI (protein–protein interaction) network analysis. Two databases (miRDB and StarBase v2.0) were used to reverse-predict miRNAs while the miRNA-lncRNA interaction was predicted using the StarBase v2.0 and LncBase Predicted v.2 databases. After excluding the lncRNAs only present in the nucleus, a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network was built. Finally, we used quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) to confirm the levels of mRNA expression in the ceRNA network.

Results

The differential expression analysis revealed 10 upregulated and 10 downregulated differentially expressed ARGs. After intersecting the reverse-predicted miRNAs with the differentially expressed miRNAs, a ceRNA network consisting of 4 mRNAs (LAMP2, NFE2L2, NCKAP1, and EGFR), 3 miRNAs (hsa-miR-140-3p, hsa-miR-142-5p, and hsa-miR-671-5p), and 30 lncRNAs was constructed. In addition, qRT-PCR results revealed that EGFR expression was downregulated in diseased gingival tissue of periodontitis patients.

Conclusion

Four autophagy-related genes, especially EGFR, may play a key role in periodontitis progression. The novel ceRNA network may aid in elucidating the role and the mechanism of autophagy in periodontitis, which could be important in developing new therapeutic options.