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Zhang K, Li C, Wu P, Gao X, Feng X, Shen J, Zhang N, Hu X, Wang S, Zhang H, Lv J, Sun J. Mechanisms of Zhixiao Tang on Anti-Inflammatory Multiple Targets and Multiple Components: Metabonomics Combined with Database Mining Technology. J Inflamm Res 2024; 17:4587-4610. [PMID: 39011417 PMCID: PMC11249118 DOI: 10.2147/jir.s463067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose Zhixiao Tang (ZXT), a traditional Chinese compound prescription, has been used clinically to treat pneumonia in China. However, the underlying mechanism of ZXT treatment in pneumonia is still unclear. The present study aimed to reveal the potential mechanism of ZXT in pneumonia using a strategy combining metabolomics and network pharmacology. Methods Initially, the chemical compositions were identified by UPLC-QE-Orbitrap-MS, while the prediction of potential signal pathways was performed through network pharmacology. To assess the anti-inflammatory properties of ZXT in the context of pneumonia, models of 16HBE cells induced by LPS and zebrafish induced by CuSO4 were established to measure levels of inflammatory markers and apoptosis. Subsequently, the differential changes of endogenous metabolites in cells caused by ZXT were examined using metabolomics technology, and the molecular docking analysis of key targets was carried out using Autodock Vina software. Ultimately, the validation of the primary pathways and targets was conducted through quantitative RT-PCR and Western blot techniques. Results A total of 75 compounds were identified through UPLC-QE-Orbitrap-MS analyses. Network pharmacological analysis shows that it plays an anti-inflammatory role in C-type lectin receptor signaling pathway. After ZXT intervention, the inflammatory factors and apoptosis in cells were significantly reduced. Metabonomics analysis showed that 18 metabolites changed significantly. Four key genes were identified, which exhibited partial compatibility with the findings of network pharmacology. Molecular docking analysis confirmed the substantial affinity of the primary targets for ZXT. Furthermore, ZXT exerted a suppressive effect on neutrophil migration, down-regulated the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokine genes, and inhibited the up-regulation of the Dectin-1/SYK/NF-κB signaling pathway. In vivo cell experiments also yielded consistent experimental outcomes. Conclusion This study enhances comprehension of the pharmacological mechanism underlying ZXT's efficacy in pneumonia treatment, thereby establishing a scholarly basis for future research and clinical utilization of ZXT in pneumonia management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaiyue Zhang
- Jilin Ginseng Academy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, Jilin, People's Republic of China
| | - Chunnan Li
- Jilin Ginseng Academy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, Jilin, People's Republic of China
| | - Peitong Wu
- Jilin Ginseng Academy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, Jilin, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaochen Gao
- Jilin Ginseng Academy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, Jilin, People's Republic of China
| | - Xueqin Feng
- Jilin Ginseng Academy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, Jilin, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiaming Shen
- Jilin Ginseng Academy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, Jilin, People's Republic of China
| | - Nanxi Zhang
- Jilin Ginseng Academy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, Jilin, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuesheng Hu
- Jilin Ginseng Academy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, Jilin, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuo Wang
- Jilin Ginseng Academy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, Jilin, People's Republic of China
| | - Hui Zhang
- Jilin Ginseng Academy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, Jilin, People's Republic of China
| | - Jingwei Lv
- Jilin Ginseng Academy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, Jilin, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiaming Sun
- Jilin Ginseng Academy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, Jilin, People's Republic of China
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Zhou X, Ben C, Wu D, Xia A, Chang P, He B, Feng N, Wu C. MicroRNA-361-5p Alleviates Leydig Cell Apoptosis and Promotes Cell Growth by Targeting PIAS1 in Late-Onset Hypogonadism. Mol Biotechnol 2024:10.1007/s12033-024-01174-x. [PMID: 38858301 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-024-01174-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
Late-onset hypogonadism (LOH) is an age-related syndrome characterized by deficiency of serum testosterone produced by Leydig cells. Previous evidence suggested that microRNA (miR)-361-3p can serve as a promising biomarker for LOH. Nonetheless, its detailed function and molecular mechanism in LOH remain unclarified. The 24-month-old male mice were selected as an animal LOH model, and mouse Leydig cell line TM3 was stimulated with H2O2. ELISA was employed for testosterone level evaluation. Hematoxylin-eosin staining was implemented for histologic analysis of mouse testicular tissues. Western blotting and RT-qPCR were utilized for evaluating molecular protein and RNA expression, respectively. Functional experiments were conducted to test miR-361-5p roles. Luciferase reporter assay was for verifying the interaction between miR-361-5p and protein inhibitor of activated STAT 1 (PIAS1). miR-361-5p displayed a decreased level in the testes of LOH mice. Overexpressing miR-361-5p attenuated Leydig cell loss in the testis and elevated serum and intratesticular testosterone levels in LOH mice. H2O2 stimulation impaired TM3 cell viability, proliferation and intracellular testosterone production and enhanced cell apoptosis. miR-361-5p targeted PIAS1 in TM3 cell. PIAS1 upregulation counteracted miR-361-5p overexpression-mediated alleviation of cell apoptosis and elevation of testosterone synthesis in H2O2-stimualetd TM3 cells. miR-361-5p ameliorates LOH progression by increasing testosterone production and alleviate Leydig cell apoptosis via downregulation of PIAS1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xunrong Zhou
- Medical College of Nantong University, 9 Qiangyuan Road, Nantong, 226001, China
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Dongtai Hospital of Nantong University, Kangfu West Rord, Dongtai, Yancheng, 224200, China
| | - Chunsheng Ben
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Dongtai Hospital of Nantong University, Kangfu West Rord, Dongtai, Yancheng, 224200, China
| | - Dong Wu
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Dongtai Hospital of Nantong University, Kangfu West Rord, Dongtai, Yancheng, 224200, China
| | - Anle Xia
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Dongtai Hospital of Nantong University, Kangfu West Rord, Dongtai, Yancheng, 224200, China
| | - Ping'an Chang
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Dongtai Hospital of Nantong University, Kangfu West Rord, Dongtai, Yancheng, 224200, China
| | - Bin He
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Dongtai Hospital of Nantong University, Kangfu West Rord, Dongtai, Yancheng, 224200, China
| | - Ninghan Feng
- Medical College of Nantong University, 9 Qiangyuan Road, Nantong, 226001, China.
- Department of Urology, Jiangnan University Medical Center, Wuxi, 214000, China.
- Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214000, China.
- Department of Urology, Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi No.2 Hospital, Wuxi, 214000, China.
| | - Cheng Wu
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Dongtai Hospital of Nantong University, Kangfu West Rord, Dongtai, Yancheng, 224200, China.
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Ulloa del Carpio N, Alvarado-Corella D, Quiñones-Laveriano DM, Araya-Sibaja A, Vega-Baudrit J, Monagas-Juan M, Navarro-Hoyos M, Villar-López M. Exploring the chemical and pharmacological variability of Lepidium meyenii: a comprehensive review of the effects of maca. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1360422. [PMID: 38440178 PMCID: PMC10910417 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1360422] [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: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Maca (Lepidium meyenii), a biennial herbaceous plant indigenous to the Andes Mountains, has a rich history of traditional use for its purported health benefits. Maca's chemical composition varies due to ecotypes, growth conditions, and post-harvest processing, contributing to its intricate phytochemical profile, including, macamides, macaenes, and glucosinolates, among other components. This review provides an in-depth revision and analysis of Maca's diverse bioactive metabolites, focusing on the pharmacological properties registered in pre-clinical and clinical studies. Maca is generally safe, with rare adverse effects, supported by preclinical studies revealing low toxicity and good human tolerance. Preclinical investigations highlight the benefits attributed to Maca compounds, including neuroprotection, anti-inflammatory properties, immunoregulation, and antioxidant effects. Maca has also shown potential for enhancing fertility, combating fatigue, and exhibiting potential antitumor properties. Maca's versatility extends to metabolic regulation, gastrointestinal health, cardio protection, antihypertensive activity, photoprotection, muscle growth, hepatoprotection, proangiogenic effects, antithrombotic properties, and antiallergic activity. Clinical studies, primarily focused on sexual health, indicate improved sexual desire, erectile function, and subjective wellbeing in men. Maca also shows promise in alleviating menopausal symptoms in women and enhancing physical performance. Further research is essential to uncover the mechanisms and clinical applications of Maca's unique bioactive metabolites, solidifying its place as a subject of growing scientific interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norka Ulloa del Carpio
- Centro de Investigación Clínica de Medicina Complementaria—CICMEC, Gerencia de Medicina Complementaria, Seguro Social de Salud-EsSalud, Lima, Peru
| | - Diego Alvarado-Corella
- Bioactivity and Sustainable Development (BIODESS) Group, Department of Chemistry, University of Costa Rica (UCR), San Jose, Costa Rica
| | | | - Andrea Araya-Sibaja
- Laboratorio Nacional de Nanotecnología, LANOTEC-CeNAT-CONARE, San José, Costa Rica
| | - José Vega-Baudrit
- Laboratorio Nacional de Nanotecnología, LANOTEC-CeNAT-CONARE, San José, Costa Rica
| | - Maria Monagas-Juan
- United States Pharmacopeia (USP) Dietary Supplements and Herbal Medicines, Rockville, MD, United States
| | - Mirtha Navarro-Hoyos
- Bioactivity and Sustainable Development (BIODESS) Group, Department of Chemistry, University of Costa Rica (UCR), San Jose, Costa Rica
| | - Martha Villar-López
- Centro de Investigación Clínica de Medicina Complementaria—CICMEC, Gerencia de Medicina Complementaria, Seguro Social de Salud-EsSalud, Lima, Peru
- Departamento de Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Lima, Peru
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Zhang K, Li C, Feng X, Zhang N, Gao X, Lv G, Shen J, Wu P, Lv J, Sun J. Integrated cell metabolomics and network pharmacology approach deciphers the anti-testosterone deficiency mechanisms of Bushen Zhuanggu Tang. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2024; 239:115919. [PMID: 38134707 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2023.115919] [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: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
Testicular dysfunction is distinguished by a deficiency in testosterone levels, which can be attributed to the occurrence of oxidative stress injury in Leydig cells. The empirical prescription known as Bushen Zhuanggu Tang, developed by a highly experienced traditional Chinese medicine practitioner with six decades of clinical expertize, aligns with the traditional Chinese medicine principle of "kidney governing bone". Researchers have demonstrated that the administration of BSZGT can effectively enhance testosterone production. The objective of this study is to investigate the potential anti-testicular dysfunction effects of BSZGT and elucidate its underlying mechanism in an in vitro setting. Specifically, the impact of oxidative stress induced by H2O2 on the activity and testosterone levels of Leydig cells (TM3) was examined. Furthermore, the utilization of UPLC-QE-Qrbitrap-MS enabled the identification of the involvement of BSZGT in various metabolic pathways, including arginine biosynthesis, amino acyl-tRNA biosynthesis, Alanine, aspartate and glutamine metabolism, and Citrate Cycle, through the modulation of 25 distinct metabolites. Additionally, a network pharmacological analysis was conducted to investigate the pivotal protein targets associated with the therapeutic effects of BSZGT. The findings demonstrate the identification of six key proteins (CYP19A1, CYP1B1, ALOX5, ARG1, XDH, and MPO) that play a significant role in augmenting testicular function through their involvement in the ovarian steroid production pathway. In summary, our study presents a comprehensive research methodology that combines cell metabonomics and network pharmacology to enhance the discovery of new therapeutic agents for TD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaiyue Zhang
- Jilin Institute of Ginseng Science, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun 130117, PR China
| | - Chunnan Li
- Jilin Institute of Ginseng Science, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun 130117, PR China
| | - Xueqin Feng
- Jilin Institute of Ginseng Science, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun 130117, PR China
| | - Nanxi Zhang
- Jilin Institute of Ginseng Science, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun 130117, PR China
| | - Xiaochen Gao
- Jilin Institute of Ginseng Science, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun 130117, PR China
| | - Guangfu Lv
- Jilin Institute of Ginseng Science, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun 130117, PR China
| | - Jiaming Shen
- Jilin Institute of Ginseng Science, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun 130117, PR China
| | - Peitong Wu
- Jilin Institute of Ginseng Science, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun 130117, PR China
| | - Jingwei Lv
- Jilin Institute of Ginseng Science, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun 130117, PR China.
| | - Jiaming Sun
- Jilin Institute of Ginseng Science, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun 130117, PR China.
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Minich DM, Ross K, Frame J, Fahoum M, Warner W, Meissner HO. Not All Maca Is Created Equal: A Review of Colors, Nutrition, Phytochemicals, and Clinical Uses. Nutrients 2024; 16:530. [PMID: 38398854 PMCID: PMC10892513 DOI: 10.3390/nu16040530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Maca (Lepidium meyenii, Lepidium peruvianum) is part of the Brassicaceae family and grows at high altitudes in the Peruvian Andes mountain range (3500-5000 m). Historically, it has been used as a nutrient-dense food and for its medicinal properties, primarily in enhancing energy and fertility. Scientific research has validated these traditional uses and other clinical applications by elucidating maca's mechanisms of action, nutrition, and phytochemical content. However, research over the last twenty years has identified up to seventeen different colors (phenotypes) of maca. The color, hypocotyl size, growing location, cultivation, and post-harvest processing methods can have a significant effect on the nutrition content, phytochemical profile, and clinical application. Yet, research differentiating the colors of maca and clinical applications remains limited. In this review, research on the nutrition, phytochemicals, and various colors of maca, including black, red, yellow (predominant colors), purple, gray (lesser-known colors), and any combination of colors, including proprietary formulations, will be discussed based on available preclinical and clinical trials. The gaps, deficiencies, and conflicts in the studies will be detailed, along with quality, safety, and efficacy criteria, highlighting the need for future research to specify all these factors of the maca used in publications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deanna M. Minich
- Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine, Adjunct Faculty, University of Western States, Portland, OR 97213, USA
- Food & Spirit, LLC, Port Orchard, WA 98366, USA
- Symphony Natural Health, Inc., West Valley City, UT 84119, USA; (K.R.); (M.F.); (W.W.)
- Symphony Natural Health Institute, West Valley City, UT 84119, USA
| | - Kim Ross
- Symphony Natural Health, Inc., West Valley City, UT 84119, USA; (K.R.); (M.F.); (W.W.)
- Symphony Natural Health Institute, West Valley City, UT 84119, USA
- Kim Ross Consulting, LLC, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34211, USA
- College of Nutrition, Sonoran University of Health Sciences, Tempe, AZ 85282, USA
| | - James Frame
- Symphony Natural Health Holdings Inc., Craigmuir Chambers, Road Town, Tortola VG1110, (BVI), UK;
- Natural Health International Pty Ltd., Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia
| | - Mona Fahoum
- Symphony Natural Health, Inc., West Valley City, UT 84119, USA; (K.R.); (M.F.); (W.W.)
- Meridian Medicine, Seattle, WA 98133, USA
- Bastyr Center for Natural Health, Bastyr University, Kenmore, WA 98028, USA
| | - Wendy Warner
- Symphony Natural Health, Inc., West Valley City, UT 84119, USA; (K.R.); (M.F.); (W.W.)
- Wendy Warner, MD, PC, Yardley, PA 19067, USA
| | - Henry O. Meissner
- National Institute of Complementary Medicine, Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Building J, 158-160 Hawkesbury Road, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia;
- Therapeutic Research, TTD International Pty Ltd., 39 Leopard Ave., Elanora-Gold Coast, QLD 4221, Australia
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