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Wang C, Xiong ZM, Cong YQ, Li ZY, Xie Y, Wang YX, Zhou HM, Yang YF, Liu JJ, Wu HZ. Revealing the pharmacological mechanisms of nao-an dropping pill in preventing and treating ischemic stroke via the PI3K/Akt/eNOS and Nrf2/HO-1 pathways. Sci Rep 2024; 14:11240. [PMID: 38755191 PMCID: PMC11099061 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-61770-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Nao-an Dropping Pill (NADP) is a Chinese patent medicine which commonly used in clinic for ischemic stroke (IS). However, the material basis and mechanism of its prevention or treatment of IS are unclear, then we carried out this study. 52 incoming blood components were resolved by UHPLC-MS/MS from rat serum, including 45 prototype components. The potential active prototype components hydroxysafflor yellow A, ginsenoside F1, quercetin, ferulic acid and caffeic acid screened by network pharmacology showed strongly binding ability with PIK3CA, AKT1, NOS3, NFE2L2 and HMOX1 by molecular docking. In vitro oxygen-glucose deprivation/reperfusion (OGD/R) experimental results showed that NADP protected HA1800 cells from OGD/R-induced apoptosis by affecting the release of LDH, production of NO, and content of SOD and MDA. Meanwhile, NADP could improve behavioral of middle cerebral artery occlusion/reperfusion (MCAO/R) rats, reduce ischemic area of cerebral cortex, decrease brain water and glutamate (Glu) content, and improve oxidative stress response. Immunohistochemical results showed that NADP significantly regulated the expression of PI3K, Akt, p-Akt, eNOS, p-eNOS, Nrf2 and HO-1 in cerebral ischemic tissues. The results suggested that NADP protects brain tissues and ameliorates oxidative stress damage to brain tissues from IS by regulating PI3K/Akt/eNOS and Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Wang
- College of Pharmacy, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, 430065, China
| | - Zhe-Ming Xiong
- College of Pharmacy, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, 430065, China
| | - You-Quan Cong
- Leiyunshang Pharmaceutical Group Co., Ltd, Suzhou, 215009, China
| | - Zi-Yao Li
- College of Pharmacy, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, 430065, China
| | - Yi Xie
- College of Pharmacy, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, 430065, China
| | - Ying-Xiao Wang
- College of Pharmacy, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, 430065, China
| | - Hui-Min Zhou
- College of Pharmacy, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, 430065, China
| | - Yan-Fang Yang
- College of Pharmacy, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, 430065, China.
- Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Resources and Chemistry of Hubei Province, Wuhan, 430065, China.
- Modern Engineering Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ethnic Medicine of Hubei Province, Wuhan, 430065, China.
| | - Jing-Jing Liu
- Leiyunshang Pharmaceutical Group Co., Ltd, Suzhou, 215009, China.
| | - He-Zhen Wu
- College of Pharmacy, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, 430065, China.
- Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Resources and Chemistry of Hubei Province, Wuhan, 430065, China.
- Modern Engineering Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ethnic Medicine of Hubei Province, Wuhan, 430065, China.
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Zhang L, Lang F, Feng J, Wang J. Review of the therapeutic potential of Forsythiae Fructus on the central nervous system: Active ingredients and mechanisms of action. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 319:117275. [PMID: 37797873 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.117275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Traditional Chinese medicine has gained significant attention in recent years owing to its multi-component, multi-target, and multi-pathway advantages in treating various diseases. Forsythiae Fructus, derived from the dried fruit of Forsythia suspensa (Thunb.) Vahl, is one such traditional Chinese medicine with numerous in vivo and ex vivo therapeutic effects, including anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral properties. Forsythiae Fructus contains more than 200 chemical constituents, with forsythiaside, forsythiaside A, forsythiaside B, isoforsythiaside, forsythin, and phillyrin being the most active ingredients. Forsythiae Fructus exerts neuroprotective effects by modulating various pathways, including oxidative stress, anti-inflammation, NF-κB signaling, 2-AG, Nrf2 signaling, acetylcholinesterase, PI3K-Akt signaling, ferroptosis, gut-brain axis, TLR4 signaling, endoplasmic reticulum stress, PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling, and PPARγ signaling pathway. AIM OF THE STUDY This review aims to highlight the potential therapeutic effects of Forsythiae Fructus on the central nervous system and summarize the current knowledge on the active ingredients of Forsythiae Fructus and their effects on different pathways involved in neuroprotection. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this review, we conducted a comprehensive search of databases (PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science, China Knowledge Resource Integrated, local dissertations and books) up until June 2023 using key terms such as Forsythia suspensa, Forsythiae Fructus, forsythiaside, isoforsythiaside, forsythin, phillyrin, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, ischemic stroke, intracerebral hemorrhage, traumatic brain injury, aging, and herpes simplex virus encephalitis. RESULTS Our findings indicate that Forsythiae Fructus and its active ingredients own therapeutic effects on the central nervous system by modulating various pathways, including oxidative stress, anti-inflammation, NF-κB signaling, 2-AG, Nrf2 signaling, acetylcholinesterase, PI3K-Akt signaling, ferroptosis, the gut-brain axis, TLR4 signaling, endoplasmic reticulum stress, PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling, and PPARγ signaling pathway. CONCLUSION Forsythiae Fructus and its active ingredients have demonstrated promising neuroprotective properties. Future in vivo and clinical studies of Forsythiae Fructus and its active ingredients should be conducted to establish precise dosage and standard guidelines for a more effective application in the treatment of neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leying Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, 36 Sanhao St, Shenyang, 110004, China
| | - Fenglong Lang
- Department of Neurology, Fushun Central Hospital, Fushun, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Juan Feng
- Department of Neurology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, 36 Sanhao St, Shenyang, 110004, China
| | - Jue Wang
- Department of Neurology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, 36 Sanhao St, Shenyang, 110004, China.
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Üremiş N, Aslan M, Taşlidere E, Gürel E. Dexpanthenol exhibits antiapoptotic and anti-inflammatory effects against nicotine-induced liver damage by modulating Bax/Bcl-xL, Caspase-3/9, and Akt/NF-κB pathways. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2024; 38:e23622. [PMID: 38229321 DOI: 10.1002/jbt.23622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
Chronic tobacco use can lead to liver damage and inflammation due to the accumulation of various toxins in the body. This study aimed to investigate the correlation between the molecular mechanisms of nicotine-induced liver injury, the caspase cascade, and the Akt/NF-κB signaling pathway, as well as the protective effects of dexpanthenol (DEX). Male rats were subjected to intraperitoneal injections of nicotine at a concentration of 0.5 mg/kg/day and/or DEX at a concentration of 500 mg/kg/day for 8 weeks. After the treatment period, liver function tests were conducted on serum samples, and tissue samples were analyzed for protein levels of Akt, NF-κB, Bax, Bcl-xL, Caspase-3, and Caspase-9, along with histopathological changes. Additionally, assessments of oxidative stress markers and proinflammatory cytokines were carried out. Nicotine administration led to elevated levels of IL-6, IL-1β, MDA, TOS, and oxidative stress index, accompanied by decreased TAS levels. Moreover, nicotine exposure reduced the p-Akt/Akt ratio, increased NF-κB, Bax, Caspase-3, and Caspase-9 protein levels, and decreased the antiapoptotic protein Bcl-xL levels. DEX treatment significantly mitigated these effects, restoring the parameters to levels comparable to those of the control group. Nicotine-induced liver injury resulted in oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis, mediated by Bax/Bcl-xL, Caspase-3, Caspase-9, and Akt/NF-κB pathways. Conversely, DEX effectively attenuated nicotine-induced liver injury by modulating apoptosis through NF-κB, Caspase-3, Caspase-9, Bax inhibition, and Bcl-xL activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuray Üremiş
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, Inonu University, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Meral Aslan
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, Inonu University, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Elif Taşlidere
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical Faculty, Inonu University, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Elif Gürel
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, Inonu University, Malatya, Turkey
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Shaheryar ZA, Khan MA, Hameed H, Mushtaq MN, Muhammad S, Shazly GA, Irfan A, Jardan YAB. Natural Fatty Acid Guards against Brain Endothelial Cell Death and Microvascular Pathology following Ischemic Insult in the Presence of Acute Hyperglycemia. Biomedicines 2023; 11:3342. [PMID: 38137563 PMCID: PMC10742291 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11123342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Ischemic stroke is worsened by the presence of sudden high blood sugar levels, even in individuals without pre-existing diabetes. This elevated glucose concentration hampers the ability of energy-starved brain cells to efficiently use it as a source of energy. Consequently, this leads to the production of abundant amounts of toxic glucose metabolites, which trigger oxidative stress in the brain milieu, particularly in the microvasculature of the brain. A prominent feature of this oxidative stress is the demise of endothelial cells, causing detrimental changes in blood vessels, including a reduction in their vascular diameter, a decreased efficiency of vessel proliferation, and the impaired integrity of tight junctions. These vascular pathologies contributed to an increase in the volume of damaged tissues (infarct), an exacerbation of brain swelling (edema), and a decline in cognitive and motor functions. In a mouse model of ischemic stroke with induced acute hyperglycemia, a naturally occurring saturated fatty acid provides protective cover to the microvasculature by preventing damage related to oxidative stress. Our current research revealed that lauric acid (LA) attenuated infarct volume and reduced brain edema by reducing endothelial cell death, enhancing vessels' diameter, promoting vascular angiogenesis, and stabilizing barrier functions. Animals administered with this natural compound showed a significant reduction in 4-HNE-positive vessels. In conclusion, natural saturated fatty acids help to preserve brain microvascular functions following ischemic insults in the presence of acute hyperglycemia.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mahtab Ahmad Khan
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Central Punjab (UCP), Lahore 54000, Pakistan
| | - Huma Hameed
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Central Punjab (UCP), Lahore 54000, Pakistan
| | | | - Sajjad Muhammad
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, FI-00029 Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Moorenstrasse-5, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Gamal A. Shazly
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ali Irfan
- Department of Chemistry, Government College University Faisalabad, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan;
| | - Yousef A. Bin Jardan
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
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Li L, Jiang W, Yu B, Liang H, Mao S, Hu X, Feng Y, Xu J, Chu L. Quercetin improves cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury by promoting microglia/macrophages M2 polarization via regulating PI3K/Akt/NF-κB signaling pathway. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 168:115653. [PMID: 37812891 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The modulation of microglial polarization from the pro-inflammatory M1 to the anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype shows promise as a therapeutic strategy for ischemic stroke. Quercetin, a natural flavonoid abundant in various plants, possesses anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and antioxidant properties. Nevertheless, its effect and underlying mechanism on microglia/macrophages M1/M2 polarization in the treatment of cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury (CI/RI) remain poorly explored. In the current study, we observed that quercetin ameliorated neurological deficits, reduced infarct volume, decreased the number of M1 microglia/macrophages (CD16/32+/Iba1+), and enhanced the number of M2 microglia/macrophages (CD206+/Iba1+) after establishing the CI/RI model in rats. Subsequent in vivo and in vitro experiments indicated that quercetin downregulated M1 markers (CD86, iNOS, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6) and upregulated M2 markers (CD206, Arg-1, IL-10, and TGF-β). Network pharmacology analysis and molecular docking revealed that the PI3K/Akt/NF-κB signaling pathway emerged as the core pathway. Western blot confirmed that quercetin upregulated the phosphorylation of PI3K and Akt, while alleviating the phosphorylation of IκBα and NF-κB both in vivo and in vitro. However, the PI3K inhibitor LY294002 reversed the effects of quercetin on M2 polarization and the expression of key proteins in the PI3K/Akt/NF-κB pathway in primary microglia after oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R) in vitro. Collectively, our findings demonstrate that quercetin facilitates microglia/macrophages M2 polarization by modulating the PI3K/Akt/NF-κB signaling pathway in the treatment of CI/RI. These findings provide novel insights into the therapeutic mechanisms of quercetin in ischemic stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Li
- Department of Physiology, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Weifeng Jiang
- Department of Physiology, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Baojian Yu
- Department of Physiology, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Huiqi Liang
- Department of Physiology, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Shihui Mao
- Department of Physiology, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Xiaowei Hu
- Department of Physiology, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Yan Feng
- Department of Physiology, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Jiadong Xu
- Department of Physiology, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Lisheng Chu
- Department of Physiology, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China.
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Song T, Zhang Y, Zhu L, Zhang Y, Song J. The role of JAK/STAT signaling pathway in cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury and the therapeutic effect of traditional Chinese medicine: A narrative review. Medicine (Baltimore) 2023; 102:e35890. [PMID: 37986307 PMCID: PMC10659620 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000035890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Cerebral ischemia is a cerebrovascular disease with symptoms caused by insufficient blood or oxygen supply to the brain. When blood supplied is restored after cerebral ischemia, secondary brain injury may occur, which is called cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury (CIRI). In this process, the Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) signaling pathway plays an important role. It mediates neuroinflammation and participates in the regulation of physiological activities, such as cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. After CIRI, M1 microglia is activated and recruited by the damaged tissue. The inflammatory factors are produced by M1 microglia through the JAK/STAT pathway, eventually leading to cell apoptosis. Meanwhile, the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway and the expression of lipocalin-2 and caspase-3 could increase. In the pathway, phosphorylated JAK2 and phosphorylated STAT3 function of 2 ways. They not only promote the proliferation of neurons, but also affect the differentiation direction of neural stem cells by further acting on the Notch signaling pathway. Recently, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is a key player in CIRI, through JAK2, STAT3, STAT1 and their phosphorylation. Therefore, the review focuses on the JAK/STAT signaling pathway and its relationship with CIRI as well as the influence of the TCM on this pathway. It is aimed at providing the basis for future clinical research on the molecular mechanism of TCM in the treatment of CIRI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianzhi Song
- The Fourth School of Clinical Medicine, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yishu Zhang
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Liangrong Zhu
- Wenling Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Taizhou, China
| | - Yuyan Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jingmei Song
- School of Basic Medicine Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
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Kim JY, Hwang M, Choi NY, Koh SH. Inhibition of the NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation/Assembly through the Activation of the PI3K Pathway by Naloxone Protects Neural Stem Cells from Ischemic Condition. Mol Neurobiol 2023; 60:5330-5342. [PMID: 37300646 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-023-03418-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Naloxone is a well-known opioid antagonist and has been suggested to have neuroprotective effects in cerebral ischemia. We investigated whether naloxone exhibits anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects in neural stem cells (NSCs) injured by oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD), whether it affects the NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome activation/assembly, and whether the role of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) pathway is important in the control of NLRP3 inflammasome activation/assembly by naloxone. Primary cultured NSCs were subjected to OGD and treated with different concentrations of naloxone. Cell viability, proliferation, and the intracellular signaling proteins associated with the PI3K pathway and NLRP3 inflammasome activation/assembly were evaluated in OGD-injured NSCs. OGD significantly reduced survival, proliferation, and migration and increased apoptosis of NSCs. However, treatment with naloxone significantly restored survival, proliferation, and migration and decreased apoptosis of NSCs. Moreover, OGD markedly increased NLRP3 inflammasome activation/assembly and cleaved caspase-1 and interleukin-1β levels in NSCs, but naloxone significantly attenuated these effects. These neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects of naloxone were eliminated when cells were treated with PI3K inhibitors. Our results suggest that NLRP3 inflammasome is a potential therapeutic target and that naloxone reduces ischemic injury in NSCs by inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome activation/assembly mediated by the activation of the PI3K signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Young Kim
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Hanyang University College of Medicine, Hanyang University Guri Hospital, 153, Gyeongchun-ro, Guri-si, Gyeonggi-do, 11923, Republic of Korea
| | - Mina Hwang
- Department of Neurology, Hanyang University College of Medicine, 153, Gyeongchun-ro, Guri-si, Gyeonggi-do, 11923, Republic of Korea
| | - Na-Young Choi
- Department of Neurology, Hanyang University College of Medicine, 153, Gyeongchun-ro, Guri-si, Gyeonggi-do, 11923, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong-Ho Koh
- Department of Neurology, Hanyang University College of Medicine, 153, Gyeongchun-ro, Guri-si, Gyeonggi-do, 11923, Republic of Korea.
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Liu W, Zhou X, Zeng K, Nie C, Huang J, Zhu L, Pei D, Zhang Y. Study on the action mechanism of Buyang Huanwu Decoction against ischemic stroke based on S1P/S1PR1/PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 312:116471. [PMID: 37030556 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Ischemic stroke is a common and frequent clinical disease. Recent studies have demonstrated that sphingolipid plays an important role in the pathological process of ischemic stroke. PI3K-Akt is a classic protective signaling pathway of cerebral ischemic injury. After acting on the S1P receptor, S1P can activate the downstream PI3K/Akt signaling pathway and play an anti-cerebral ischemia role. Buyang Huanwu Decoction (BHD) is a traditional Chinese medicine formula used to treat ischemic stroke. However, the mechanisms of BHD on ischemic stroke remain unclear based on S1P/S1PR1/PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. AIM OF THE STUDY The present study is intended to investigate the action mechanism of BHD on ischemic stroke based on the S1P/S1PR1/PI3K/Akt signaling pathway from multiple perspectives. MATERIALS AND METHODS The BHD lyophilized product was prepared by vacuum freeze-drying method, of which the chemical composition was determined by UPLC-Q-TOF/MS. The mouse permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion (pMCAO) model was established by the suture-occluded method. Male KM mice were randomly divided into seven groups: sham group, model group, FTY720 (positive control) group, BHD group, BHD + W146 (selective S1PR1 inhibitor) group, SEW2871 (selective S1PR1 agonist) group, and Calycosin group. Each group was administered continuously for 14 days and evaluated with modified neurological severity score (mNSS) and cerebral infarct volume on the 1st, 4th, 7th, and 14th days. The SphK1, SphK2, S1PR1, PI3K, Akt, and p-Akt protein in the prefrontal lobe, hippocampus, and striatum was quantified by Western blot and immunohistochemical (IHC) experiment respectively. The qRT-PCR method was employed to evaluate SphK1, SphK2, and S1PR1 mRNA expression in the above tissue. RESULTS BHD and Calycosin both effectively improved mNSS scores with smaller infarct volumes. The SphK1 level in the prefrontal lobe, hippocampus, and striatum of mice in the BHD group was significantly lower, and SphK2, PI3K, and p-Akt in the hippocampus and striatum were significantly higher than those in the model group. BHD significantly decreased SphK1 mRNA expression in the prefrontal lobe, hippocampus, and striatum, and significantly up-regulated SphK2 mRNA and S1PR1 mRNA expression. Additionally, SphK1 protein expression levels of the prefrontal lobe, hippocampus, and striatum in the BHD group was significantly lower than model group, and SphK2, S1PR1, PI3K, Akt, and p-Akt protein expressions levels were increased obviously. Furthermore, SEW2871 can increase S1PR1 and Akt expression, and up-regulate SphK2 and S1PR1 mRNA expression. The effect of BHD on the expression of S1P/S1PR1/PI3K/Akt signaling pathway-related proteins and mRNA were weakened by BHD + W146. CONCLUSION BHD and Calycosin significantly improved the symptoms of neurological deficits in pMCAO mice, reduced the cerebral infarction volume, up-regulated SphK2 and S1PR1 mRNA levels, enhanced SphK2, S1PR1, PI3K, Akt, p-Akt protein expression of the prefrontal lobe, hippocampus and striatum, and down-regulated SphK1 mRNA and protein expression, which may be helpful to clarify the mechanism of BHD through S1P/S1PR1/PI3K/Akt signaling pathway to protect against cerebral ischemic injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanyi Liu
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Chinese Materia Medica, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 51006, Guangdong, China
| | - Xin Zhou
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Chinese Materia Medica, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 51006, Guangdong, China.
| | - Keqi Zeng
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Chinese Materia Medica, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 51006, Guangdong, China.
| | - Cong Nie
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Chinese Materia Medica, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 51006, Guangdong, China.
| | - Jieyi Huang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Chinese Materia Medica, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 51006, Guangdong, China
| | - Lixia Zhu
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510282, China
| | - Die Pei
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Chinese Materia Medica, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 51006, Guangdong, China
| | - Yingfeng Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Chinese Materia Medica, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 51006, Guangdong, China.
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Li L, Liu Y, Zheng Y, Zhu J, Wu D, Yan X, Li C, Wu M, Li W. Exploring the mechanisms under Zuogui Pill's treatment of ischemic stroke through network pharmacology and in vitro experimental verification. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1153478. [PMID: 37426810 PMCID: PMC10323140 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1153478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Due to its high mortality, incidence and disability rates, ischemic stroke poses heavy economic burdens to families and society. Zuogui Pill (ZGP) is a classic Chinese medicine for tonifying the kidney, which is effective for the recovery of neurological function after ischemic stroke. However, Zuogui Pill has not been evaluated for its potential effects on ischemic strokes. Using network pharmacology, the research aimed to explore the mechanisms of Zuogui Pill on ischemic stroke, which were further validated in SH-SY5Y cells injured by oxygen and glucose deprivation/reperfusion (OGD/R). Network analysis of Zuogui Pill identified 86 active ingredients and 107 compound-related targets correlated with ischemic stroke. Additionally, 11 core active compounds were obtained, such as Quercetin, beta sitosterol, and stigmasterol. Most of the compounds have been proven to have pharmacological activities. Based on pathway enrichment studies, Zuogui Pill may exert neuroprotection through MAPK signaling, PI3K-Akt signaling and apoptosis, as well as enhance neurite outgrowth and axonal regeneration effect via mTOR signaling, p53 signaling and Wnt signaling pathways. In vitro experiment, the viability of ischemic neuron treated with Zuogui Pill was increased, and the ability of neurite outgrowth was significantly improved. Western blot assays shown that the pro-neurite outgrowth effect of Zuogui Pill on ischemic stroke may be relate to PTEN/mTOR signal pathway. The results of the study provided new insights into Zuogui Pill's molecular mechanism in treatment of ischemic stroke, as well as clinical references for its use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Li
- Department of Neurology, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
- The First Clinical Medical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yan Liu
- Department of Neurology, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
- The First Clinical Medical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yawei Zheng
- Department of Neurology, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
- The First Clinical Medical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Jian Zhu
- Department of Endocrinology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Dan Wu
- Department of Neurology, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
- The First Clinical Medical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaohui Yan
- Department of Neurology, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
- The First Clinical Medical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Changyin Li
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Minghua Wu
- Department of Neurology, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
- The First Clinical Medical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Wenlei Li
- Department of Neurology, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
- The First Clinical Medical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
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10
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Ri MH, Xing Y, Zuo HX, Li MY, Jin HL, Ma J, Jin X. Regulatory mechanisms of natural compounds from traditional Chinese herbal medicines on the microglial response in ischemic stroke. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 116:154889. [PMID: 37262999 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2023.154889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Development of clinically effective neuroprotective agents for stroke therapy is still a challenging task. Microglia play a critical role in brain injury and recovery after ischemic stroke. Traditional Chinese herbal medicines (TCHMs) are based on a unique therapeutic principle, have various formulas, and have long been widely used to treat stroke. Therefore, the active compounds in TCHMs and their underlying mechanisms of action are attracting increasing attention in the field of stroke drug development. PURPOSE To summarize the regulatory mechanisms of TCHM-derived natural compounds on the microglial response in animal models of ischemic stroke. METHODS We searched studies published until 10 April 2023 in the Web of Science, PubMed, and ScienceDirect using the following keywords: natural compounds, natural products or phytochemicals, traditional Chinese Medicine or Chinese herbal medicine, microglia, and ischemic stroke. This review was prepared according to PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Item for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis) guidelines. RESULTS Natural compounds derived from TCHMs can attenuate the M1 phenotype of microglia, which is involved in the detrimental inflammatory response, via inhibition of NF-κB, MAPKs, JAK/STAT, Notch, TLR4, P2X7R, CX3CR1, IL-17RA, the NLRP3 inflammasome, and pro-oxidant enzymes. Additionally, the neuroprotective response of microglia with the M2 phenotype can be enhanced by activating Nrf2/HO-1, PI3K/AKT, AMPK, PPARγ, SIRT1, CB2R, TREM2, nAChR, and IL-33/ST2. Several clinical trials showed that TCHM-derived natural compounds that regulate microglial responses have significant and safe therapeutic effects, but further well-designed clinical studies are needed. CONCLUSIONS Further research regarding the direct targets and potential pleiotropic or synergistic effects of natural compounds would provide a more reasonable approach for regulation of the microglial response with the possibility of successful stroke drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myong Hak Ri
- Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines of the Changbai Mountain, Ministry of Education, Molecular Medicine Research Center, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji 133002, Jilin Province, China; Faculty of Life Science, Kim Il Sung University, Pyongyang, Democratic People's Republic of Korea
| | - Yue Xing
- Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines of the Changbai Mountain, Ministry of Education, Molecular Medicine Research Center, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji 133002, Jilin Province, China
| | - Hong Xiang Zuo
- Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines of the Changbai Mountain, Ministry of Education, Molecular Medicine Research Center, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji 133002, Jilin Province, China
| | - Ming Yue Li
- Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines of the Changbai Mountain, Ministry of Education, Molecular Medicine Research Center, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji 133002, Jilin Province, China
| | - Hong Lan Jin
- Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines of the Changbai Mountain, Ministry of Education, Molecular Medicine Research Center, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji 133002, Jilin Province, China
| | - Juan Ma
- Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines of the Changbai Mountain, Ministry of Education, Molecular Medicine Research Center, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji 133002, Jilin Province, China.
| | - Xuejun Jin
- Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines of the Changbai Mountain, Ministry of Education, Molecular Medicine Research Center, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji 133002, Jilin Province, China.
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11
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Zhang KL, Li SM, Hou JY, Hong YH, Chen XX, Zhou CQ, Wu H, Zheng GH, Zeng CT, Wu HD, Fu JY, Wang T. Elabela, a Novel Peptide, Exerts Neuroprotective Effects Against Ischemic Stroke Through the APJ/miR-124-3p/CTDSP1/AKT Pathway. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2023:10.1007/s10571-023-01352-6. [PMID: 37106272 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-023-01352-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
Elabela (ELA), which is the second endogenous peptide ligand of the apelin receptor (APJ) to be discovered, has been widely studied for potential use as a therapeutic peptide. However, its role in ischemic stroke (IS), which is a leading cause of disability and death worldwide and has limited therapeutic options, is uncertain. The aim of the present study was to investigate the beneficial effects of ELA on neuron survival after ischemia and the underlying molecular mechanisms. Primary cortical neurons were isolated from the cerebral cortex of pregnant C57BL/6J mice. Flow cytometry and immunofluorescence showed that ELA inhibited oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD) -induced apoptosis and axonal damage in vitro. Additionally, analysis of the Gene Expression Omnibus database revealed that the expression of microRNA-124-3p (miR-124-3p) was decreased in blood samples from patients with IS, while the expression of C-terminal domain small phosphatase 1 (CTDSP1) was increased. These results indicated that miR-124-3p and CTDSP1 were related to ischemic stroke, and there might be a negative regulatory relationship between them. Then, we found that ELA significantly elevated miR-124-3p expression, suppressed CTDSP1 expression, and increased p-AKT expression by binding to the APJ receptor under OGD in vitro. A dual-luciferase reporter assay confirmed that CTDSP1 was a direct target of miR-124-3p. Furthermore, adenovirus-mediated overexpression of CTDSP1 exacerbated neuronal apoptosis and axonal damage and suppressed AKT phosphorylation, while treatment with ELA or miR-124-3p mimics reversed these effects. In conclusion, these results indicated that ELA could alleviate neuronal apoptosis and axonal damage by upregulating miR-124-3p and activating the CTDSP1/AKT signaling pathway. This study, for the first time, verified the protective effect of ELA against neuronal injury after ischemia and revealed the underlying mechanisms. We demonstrated the potential for the use of ELA as a therapeutic agent in the treatment of ischemic stroke.
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Grants
- No. JCYJ20190808101405466, JCYJ20210324115003008, JCYJ20220530144404009 the Shenzhen Fundamental Research Program
- No. JCYJ20190808101405466, JCYJ20210324115003008, JCYJ20220530144404009 the Shenzhen Fundamental Research Program
- No. FTWS2019001, FTWS2021016, FTWS2022018 the Futian District Health and Public Welfare Research Project of Shenzhen City
- No. FTWS2019001, FTWS2021016, FTWS2022018 the Futian District Health and Public Welfare Research Project of Shenzhen City
- No. 81070125, 81270213, 81670306 National Natural Science Foundation of China
- No. 2010B031600032, 2014A020211002 the Science and Technology Foundation in Guangdong Province
- No. 2017A030313503 the National Natural Science Foundation of Guangdong Province
- No. 201806020084 the Science and Technology Foundation in Guangzhou City
- No. 13ykzd16, 17ykjc18 the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities
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Affiliation(s)
- Kang-Long Zhang
- Department of Emergency, The Eighth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, 518003, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuang-Mei Li
- Department of Emergency, The Eighth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, 518003, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing-Yu Hou
- Department of Emergency, The Eighth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, 518003, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Ying-Hui Hong
- Department of Emergency, The Eighth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, 518003, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xu-Xiang Chen
- Department of Emergency, The Eighth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, 518003, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Chang-Qing Zhou
- Department of Emergency, The Eighth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, 518003, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Hao Wu
- Department of Emergency, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Guang-Hui Zheng
- Department of Emergency, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Chao-Tao Zeng
- Department of Emergency, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Hai-Dong Wu
- Department of Emergency, The Eighth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, 518003, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Jia-Ying Fu
- Department of Emergency, The Eighth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, 518003, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Tong Wang
- Department of Emergency, The Eighth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, 518003, Guangdong, People's Republic of China.
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