Eucommia ulmoides Ameliorates Glucotoxicity by Suppressing Advanced Glycation End-Products in Diabetic Mice Kidney

Physicochemical and stability analysis of mung bean protein hydrolysates with lipid peroxidation inhibition

This study investigated mung bean protein hydrolysates (MBPH) produced using neutral protease, examining their physicochemical properties, stability, and lipid peroxidation inhibition capabilities. The research revealed that MBPH molecular weight ranged from 17 to 26 kDa and perform various functions, including catalytic, nutrient storage, and binding. Stability assessments showed that MBPH are stable at 45 °C and pH of 7.5 but are light-sensitive and unstable in solution or when combined with sugars. Additionally, increased concentrations of digestive enzymes reduce MBPH stability. Antioxidant tests in vitro and in Caenorhabditis elegans confirmed MBPH's ability to neutralizing radicals, enhance antioxidant enzyme activities, and reduce lipid peroxidation, thereby protecting against oxidative damage. Furthermore, in vivo experiments showed that MBPH extend the lifespan of worms and reduced their body lipid content, indicating potential benefits in mitigating cholesterol-related damage. This research demonstrates the potential of MBPH in inhibiting lipid peroxidation.

Eucommia ulmoides extract regulates oxidative stress to maintain calcium homeostasis and improve diabetic osteoporosis

Diabetic osteoporosis (DOP) is a secondary disease that severely affects the health and quality of life of patients with diabetes mellitus. This study aimed to explore the bone protective effect of aqueous extract of Eucommia ulmoides (EUL) in DOP mice. DOP mice were established using a high-sugar, high-fat diet and streptozotocin (STZ) (35 mg/kg for three consecutive days), and the EUL aqueous extract (2.5 g/kg/day) was orally administered for 6 weeks. The serum levels of oxidative stress-related factors, calcium, and phosphorus were assessed using biochemical assays. The osteoprotective effect of EUL was assessed using micro-computer tomography, three-point bending assay, histological analysis, and immunoblotting. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blotting were performed to detect the expression levels of calcium transport channel factors in the kidney and small intestine tissues. Furthermore, the expression levels of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) in the femur, kidney, and small intestine tissues were detected using western blotting and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. EUL aqueous extract reduced blood glucose levels, increased body weight, and relieved symptoms in DOP mice (p < .05). It also increased bone mineral density, improved the bone microstructure, decreased the number of femoral osteoclasts, and increased the expression of femoral Runx2 and Bmp2 in DOP mice (p < .01). After 6 weeks of EUL aqueous extract administration, serum levels of SOD, CTA, calcium, and phosphorus were upregulated, whereas MDA levels were decreased (p < .01). The aqueous EUL extract also upregulated the expression of TRPV5, PMCA-1b, and CaBP-9 k in the kidney and small intestine of DOP mice (p < .01). Furthermore, the expression of Nrf2 and HO-1 in the kidney, small intestine, and femur tissues was increased (p < .01). EUL aqueous extract reduced blood glucose levels in DOP mice and regulated oxidative stress through the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway, thereby maintaining calcium homeostasis and ultimately improving bone quality. Our study suggested that EUL aqueous extract may be effective in the treatment of DOP.

Preparation techniques, structural features, and bioactivities of Eucommia ulmoides polysaccharides: A review

Eucommia ulmoides Oliv. (tu-chung), as a famous nature medical and edible plant, has the effect of tonifying liver and kidney, strengthening the function of the muscles and bones, and miscarriage prevention. Accumulating evidence has demonstrated that the polysaccharides from Eucommia ulmoides Oliv. (EUPs) are a kind of vital and representative biologically active macromolecules and have various health-promoting biological activities in vivo and in vitro, such as antioxidant activity, immunomodulatory activity, hypolipidemic and hypoglycemic activities, anti-inflammatory activities, anti-tumor activity, and among others. The review aims to comprehensively and systematically collate the recent research progress on extraction and purification methods, structural characteristics, biological activities, mechanism of action, structural modification, and toxicity of EUPs to support their therapeutic potential and health-care functions. New valuable insights for future research with EUPs were also proposed in the areas of structural characterization and pharmacological activities to promoting the development of therapeutic agents and functional foods.

Modulatory effects of rutin and vitamin A on hyperglycemia induced glycation, oxidative stress and inflammation in high-fat-fructose diet animal model

In the current study we investigated the impact of combination of rutin and vitamin A on glycated products, the glyoxalase system, oxidative markers, and inflammation in animals fed a high-fat high-fructose (HFFD) diet. Thirty rats were randomly divided into six groups (n = 5). The treatments, metformin (120 mg/kg), rutin (100 mg/kg), vitamin A (43 IU/kg), and a combination of rutin (100 mg/kg) and vitamin A (43 IU/kg) were given to relevant groups of rats along with high-fructose high-fat diet for 42 days. HbA1c, D-lactate, Glyoxylase-1, Hexokinase 2, malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase (CAT), nuclear transcription factor-B (NF-κB), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-8 (IL-8) and histological examinations were performed after 42 days. The docking simulations were conducted using Auto Dock package. The combined effects of rutin and vitamin A in treated rats significantly (p < 0.001) reduced HbA1c, hexokinase 2, and D-lactate levels while preventing cellular damage. The combination dramatically (p < 0.001) decreased MDA, CAT, and GPx in treated rats and decreased the expression of inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6 andIL-8, as well as the transcription factor NF-κB. The molecular docking investigations revealed that rutin had a strong affinity for several important biomolecules, including as NF-κB, Catalase, MDA, IL-6, hexokinase 2, and GPx. The results propose beneficial impact of rutin and vitamin A as a convincing treatment strategy to treat AGE-related disorders, such as diabetes, autism, alzheimer's, atherosclerosis.

Chlorogenic acid prevents ovariectomized-induced bone loss by facilitating osteoblast functions and suppressing osteoclast formation

Osteoporosis is a usual bone disease in aging populations, principally in postmenopausal women. Anti-resorptive and anabolic drugs have been applied to prevent and cure osteoporosis and are associated to a different of adverse effects. Du-Zhong is usually applied in Traditional Chinese Medicine to strengthen bone, regulate bone metabolism, and treat osteoporosis. Chlorogenic acid is a major polyphenol in Du-Zhong. In the current study, chlorogenic acid was found to enhance osteoblast proliferation and differentiation. Chlorogenic acid also inhibits the RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis. Notably, ovariectomy significantly decreased bone volume and mechanical properties in the ovariectomized (OVX) rats. Administration of chlorogenic acid antagonized OVX-induced bone loss. Taken together, chlorogenic acid seems to be a hopeful molecule for the development of novel anti-osteoporosis treatment.

A review of "plant gold" Eucommia ulmoides Oliv.: A medicinal and food homologous plant with economic value and prospect

Eucommia ulmoides Oliv. is an ancient and precious plant that has been used as medicine in China for more than 2000 years. Because its bark, leaves, seeds, and male flowers can be used in medicine, it plays an important role in medicine, food, chemical industry, and other fields, so it is also called "plant gold". 246 compounds have been isolated from E. ulmoides, which endow E. ulmoides with many unique pharmacological effects and make it wide to study in the fields of osteoporosis, hypertension, liver protection, and so on. Besides, E. ulmoides also has significant medicinal effects on anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, immunomodulation, and neuroprotection, and is often used in clinical compound medicines of traditional Chinese medicine. In addition to updating its ethnobotany, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and toxicology information, the economic botany of leaves, seeds, and male flowers was also introduced. It hopes hoping to fully understand this economically important Chinese medicine and provide a scientific basis for further development and utilization of E. ulmoides.

Study on the substance basis of the efficacy of eucommiae cortex before and after salt processing for the treatment of kidney-yang deficiency syndrome based on the spectrum-effect relationship

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Kidney-Yang deficiency syndrome (KYDS) is one of the common diseases of the elderly and closely related to the ageing of the body, it has a major impact on the quality of life of the patient. Eucommiae Cortex (EC) is the dried bark of Eucommia ulmoides Oliv. Which has the effect of tonifying the liver and kidneys, strengthening the muscles and bones. In Traditional Chinese Medicine clinics, EC is commonly used in the treatment of KYDS, but the material basis for the improvement of its efficacy in treating KYDS after salt processing remains unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to find the main active ingredients that could improve the treatment of KYDS efficacy of EC after salt processing.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Firstly, the fingerprints of raw and salt-processed EC were established to determine the common components by using HPLC, and then an experimental study on the treatment of KYDS efficacy was carried out to compare the difference in the efficacy between raw and salt-processed EC. Thirdly, the spectrum-effect relationship of chemical components and pharmacodynamic indexes was established by using Grey Relational Analysis and Entropy Method. Finally, the network pharmacology and molecular docking technique was used to verify the kidney tonifying effect of the active ingredients of EC.

RESULTS

According to the results of the analysis of hormonal index levels on the hypothalamic-pituitary-target gland axis and the extent of renal lesions, the therapeutic effect of EC on KYDS was mainly reflected in the regulation of the Adrenocorticotropic hormone, Corticosterone in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and Tri-iodothyronine, Tetra-iodothyronine in the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis, moreover the therapeutic effect of salt-processed EC was stronger than that of raw EC. The pharmacologically active ingredients that improved its treatment of KYDS efficacy after salt processing were peak 1 (geniposidic acid), peak 2 (chlorogenic acid), peak 5 (geniposide), peak 6 (genipin), peak 7 (pinoresinol diglucoside) and peak 11 (hyperoside). Meanwhile, the results of network pharmacology and molecular docking showed that the 6 active ingredients could exert kidney tonic effects through multiple signaling pathways by acting on core targets such as AKT1 and PTGS2.

CONCLUSION

As far as we known, this was the first time to establish and compare the spectrum-effect relationship between raw and salt-processed EC, which laid the foundation for the pharmacokinetics studies of EC and provided a reference for future EC studies.

The possible role of nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 activators in the management of Covid-19

COVID-19 is caused by a novel SARS-CoV-2 leading to pulmonary and extra-pulmonary manifestations due to oxidative stress (OS) development and hyperinflammation. COVID-19 is primarily asymptomatic though it may cause acute lung injury (ALI), acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), systemic inflammation, and thrombotic events in severe cases. SARS-CoV-2-induced OS triggers the activation of different signaling pathways, which counterbalances this complication. One of these pathways is nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), which induces a series of cellular interactions to mitigate SARS-CoV-2-mediated viral toxicity and OS-induced cellular injury. Nrf2 pathway inhibits the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and the development of cytokine storm in COVID-19. Therefore, Nrf2 activators may play an essential role in reducing SARS-CoV-2 infection-induced inflammation by suppressing NLRP3 inflammasome in COVID-19. Furthermore, Nrf2 activators can attenuate endothelial dysfunction (ED), renin-angiotensin system (RAS) dysregulation, immune thrombosis, and coagulopathy. Thus this mini-review tries to clarify the possible role of the Nrf2 activators in the management of COVID-19. Nrf2 activators could be an effective therapeutic strategy in the management of Covid-19. Preclinical and clinical studies are recommended in this regard.

SARS-CoV-2 infection and dysregulation of nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a recent pandemic caused by a novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‑CoV‑2) leading to pulmonary and extra-pulmonary manifestations due to the development of oxidative stress (OS) and hyperinflammation. The underlying cause for OS and hyperinflammation in COVID-19 may be related to the inhibition of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), a master regulator of antioxidative responses and cellular homeostasis. The Nrf2 pathway inhibits the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and the development of cytokine storm and OS in COVID-19. Nrf2 activators can attenuate endothelial dysfunction (ED), renin-angiotensin system (RAS) dysregulation, immune thrombosis, and coagulopathy. Hence, this review aimed to reveal the potential role of the Nrf2 pathway and its activators in the management of COVID-19. As well, we tried to revise the mechanistic role of the Nrf2 pathway in COVID-19.

Transcriptomic and Hormone Analyses Provide Insight into the Regulation of Axillary Bud Outgrowth of Eucommia ulmoides Oliver

An essential indicator of Eucommia ulmoides Oliver (E. ulmoides) is the axillary bud; the growth and developmental capacity of axillary buds could be used to efficiently determine the structural integrity of branches and plant regeneration. We obtained axillary buds in different positions on the stem, including upper buds (CK), tip buds (T1), and bottom buds (T2), which provided optimal materials for the study of complicated regulatory networks that control bud germination. This study used transcriptomes to analyze the levels of gene expression in three different types of buds, and the results showed that 12,131 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were discovered via the pairwise comparison of transcriptome data gathered from CK to T2, while the majority of DEGs (44.38%) were mainly found between CK and T1. These DEGs were closely related to plant hormone signal transduction and the amino acid biosynthesis pathway. We also determined changes in endogenous hormone contents during the process of bud germination. Interestingly, except for indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) content, which showed a significant upward trend (p < 0.05) in tip buds on day 4 compared with day 0, the other hormones showed no significant change during the process of germination. Then, the expression patterns of genes involved in IAA biosynthesis and signaling were examined through transcriptome analysis. Furthermore, the expression levels of genes related to IAA biosynthesis and signal transduction were upregulated in tip buds. Particularly, the expression of the IAA degradation gene Gretchen Hagen 3 (GH3.1) was downregulated on day 4, which may support the concept that endogenous IAA promotes bud germination. Based on these data, we propose that IAA synthesis and signal transduction lead to morphological changes in tip buds during the germination process. On this basis, suggestions to improve the efficiency of the production and application of E. ulmoides are put forward to provide guidance for future research.

Eucommia lignans alleviate the progression of diabetic nephropathy through mediating the AR/Nrf2/HO-1/AMPK axis in vivo and in vitro

Lignans derived from Eucommia ulmoides Oliver (Eucommia lignans) inhibit the progression of inflammatory diseases, while their effect on the progression of diabetic nephropathy (DN) remained unclear. This work was designed to assess the function of Eucommia lignans in DN. The major constituents of Eucommia lignans were analyzed by UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS. The binding between Eucommia lignans and aldose reductase (AR) was predicted by molecular docking. Eucommia lignans (200, 100, and 50 mg·kg^-1) were used in model animals to evaluate their renal function changes. Rat glomerular mesangial cells (HBZY-1) were transfected with sh-AR, sh-AMPK, and oe-AR in the presence of high glucose (HG) or HG combined with Eucommia lignans to evaluate whether Eucommia lignans affected HG-induced cell injury and mitochondrial dysfunction through the AR/Nrf2/HO-1/AMPK axis. Eucommia lignans significantly attenuated the progression of DN in vivo. Eucommia lignans notably reversed HG-induced upregulation of inflammatory cytokines and mitochondrial injury, while downregulating the levels of Cyto c, caspase 9, AR, and NOX4 in HBZY-1 cells. In contrast, HG-induced downregulation of Nrf2, HO-1 and p-AMPKα levels were abolished by Eucommia lignans. Meanwhile, knockdown of AR exerted similar therapeutic effect of Eucommia lignans on DN progression, and AR overexpression reversed the effect of Eucommia lignans. Eucommia lignans alleviated renal injury through the AR/Nrf2/HO-1/AMPK axis. Thus, these findings might provide evidence for the use of Eucommia lignans in treating DN.

Integrated network pharmacology, transcriptomics and metabolomics analysis to reveal the mechanism of salt Eucommia cortex in the treatment of chronic kidney disease mineral bone disorders via the PPARG/AMPK signaling pathway

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The skeletal complications associated with chronic kidney diseases from stages 3-5 in individuals are called Chronic Kidney Disease-Mineral Bone Disorder (CKD-MBD), which increases the incidence of cardiovascular diseases drastically and affects the quality of life of patients seriously. Eucommia cortex has the effect of tonifying kidneys and strengthening bones, and salt Eucommia cortex is one of the most commonly used traditional Chinese medicines in the clinical treatment of CKD-MBD instead of Eucommia cortex. However, its mechanism still remains unexplored.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects and mechanisms of salt Eucommia cortex on CKD-MBD by integrating network pharmacology, transcriptomics, and metabolomics.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The CKD-MBD mice induced by 5/6 nephrectomy and low calcium/high phosphorus diet were treated with salt Eucommia cortex. The renal functions and bone injuries were evaluated by serum biochemical detection, histopathological analyses, and femur Micro-CT examinations. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the control group and model group, model group and high-dose Eucommia cortex group, model group and high-dose salt Eucommia cortex group were analyzed by transcriptomic analysis. The differentially expressed metabolites (DEMs) between the control group and model group, model group and high-dose Eucommia cortex group, model group and high-dose salt Eucommia cortex group were analyzed by metabolomics analysis.The common targets and pathways were obtained by integrating transcriptomics, metabolomics and network pharmacology, which were identified and verified by in vivo experiments.

RESULTS

The negative impacts on the renal functions and bone injuries were alleviated with salt Eucommia cortex treatment effectively. Compared with CKD-MBD model mice, the levels of serum BUN, Ca and urine Upr were significantly decreased in the salt Eucommia cortex group. And the Integrated network pharmacology, transcriptomics and metabolomics analysis revealed that Peroxisome Proliferative Activated Receptor, Gamma (PPARG) was the only common target, mainly involved by AMPK signaling pathways. The activation of PPARG in the kidney tissue was significantly decreased in CKD-MBD mice but increased in the salt Eucommia cortex treatment. The AMPK signaling pathway were verified that AMPK expression levels were decreased in CKD-MBD mice but increased in the salt Eucommia cortex treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study presented that salt Eucommia cortex alleviated the negative impact of CKD-MBD on the renal injury and bone injury of mice induced by 5/6 nephrectomy with the low calcium/high phosphorus diet effectively, which is highly likely achieved through the PPARG/AMPK signaling pathway.

Antidiabetic and Toxicological Effects of the Tea Infusion of Summer Collection from Annona cherimola Miller Leaves

Annona cherimola Miller (Ac) is a plant used in Mexican traditional medicine for the treatment of diabetes. In this work, the tea infusion extracts obtained from 1.5 g of leaf powder from Ac collected in May (AcMa), June (AcJun), July (AcJul), and August (AcAu) were evaluated on streptozocin-induced diabetic (STID) mice and for subchronic toxicity in STID and non-diabetic (ND) mice. In addition, extracts were subjected to high-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection (HPLC-DAD). Results showed that the tea infusion extract of the sample collected in August (AcAu) exhibited the most significant antihyperglycemic activity during all acute assays. The analysis of the extracts (AcMa, AcJu, AcJul, and AcAu) by HPLC-DAD revealed that flavonoid glycosides, rutin, narcissin, and nicotiflorin were the major components. In addition, the sample AcAu contained the best concentration of flavonoids. In the case of subchronic oral toxicity, the AcAu sample did not cause mortality in STID mice, and histopathological analysis revealed significant improvement in the changes associated with diabetes in the liver and kidneys. These findings suggest that the Ac leaves collected in August may be a source of flavonoids such as rutin, with antidiabetic potential. In addition, these findings support the use of Ac to treat diabetes in traditional medicine.

Eucommia ulmoides Oliver's Multitarget Mechanism for Treatment of Ankylosing Spondylitis: A Study Based on Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking

Background

Eucommia ulmoides Oliver (EU) is a plant used in Chinese medicine as a medicinal herb to treat autoimmune and inflammatory conditions. We used network pharmacology to examine the active ingredients and estimate the main targets and pathways affected by EU when it is used to treat ankylosing spondylitis (AS).

Materials and Methods

The Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform was used to search for active ingredients in EU and their target proteins. The GeneCards Database was used to find AS-related targets. The targets from the EU and AS searches that coincided were selected by constructing a Venn diagram. Then, a STRING network platform and Cytoscape software were used to analyse the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network and key targets. The strong affinity between EU and its targets was confirmed using molecular docking techniques. The Gene Ontology and the Kyoto Encyclopaedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis of overlapping targets was performed using the database for annotation, visualization, and integrated discovery online tool.

Results

The number of active ingredients against AS in EU was discovered to be 28. Major targets against AS in the PPI network and core targets analyses were identified as IL-1B, PTGS2, IL-8, nMMP-9, CCL2, MYC, and IL-2. Furthermore, molecular docking studies showed the strong affinity between EU's bioactive molecules and their AS targets. Enrichment analysis revealed that active ingredients from EU were involved in a variety of biological processes, including the response to molecules derived from bacteria, extracellular stimuli, nutrient levels, and the regulation of reactive oxygen species, all of which are mediated by interleukin-17, TNF-α, and other signalling pathways.

Conclusion

The therapy for AS using EU involves a multitarget, multipathway, and multiselection mechanism that includes anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. This study provides a theoretical basis for future research into targeted molecular therapies for AS.

Methylglyoxal and Its Adducts: Induction, Repair, and Association with Disease

Metabolism is an essential part of life that provides energy for cell growth. During metabolic flux, reactive electrophiles are produced that covalently modify macromolecules, leading to detrimental cellular effects. Methylglyoxal (MG) is an abundant electrophile formed from lipid, protein, and glucose metabolism at intracellular levels of 1-4 μM. MG covalently modifies DNA, RNA, and protein, forming advanced glycation end products (MG-AGEs). MG and MG-AGEs are associated with the onset and progression of many pathologies including diabetes, cancer, and liver and kidney disease. Regulating MG and MG-AGEs is a potential strategy to prevent disease, and they may also have utility as biomarkers to predict disease risk, onset, and progression. Here, we review recent advances and knowledge surrounding MG, including its production and elimination, mechanisms of MG-AGEs formation, the physiological impact of MG and MG-AGEs in disease onset and progression, and the latter in the context of its receptor RAGE. We also discuss methods for measuring MG and MG-AGEs and their clinical application as prognostic biomarkers to allow for early detection and intervention prior to disease onset. Finally, we consider relevant clinical applications and current therapeutic strategies aimed at targeting MG, MG-AGEs, and RAGE to ultimately improve patient outcomes.

Oxidative Stress and NRF2/KEAP1/ARE Pathway in Diabetic Kidney Disease (DKD): New Perspectives

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the most debilitating chronic diseases worldwide, with increased prevalence and incidence. In addition to its macrovascular damage, through its microvascular complications, such as Diabetic Kidney Disease (DKD), DM further compounds the quality of life of these patients. Considering DKD is the main cause of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in developed countries, extensive research is currently investigating the matrix of DKD pathophysiology. Hyperglycemia, inflammation and oxidative stress (OS) are the main mechanisms behind this disease. By generating pro-inflammatory factors (e.g., IL-1,6,18, TNF-α, TGF-β, NF-κB, MCP-1, VCAM-1, ICAM-1) and the activation of diverse pathways (e.g., PKC, ROCK, AGE/RAGE, JAK-STAT), they promote a pro-oxidant state with impairment of the antioxidant system (NRF2/KEAP1/ARE pathway) and, finally, alterations in the renal filtration unit. Hitherto, a wide spectrum of pre-clinical and clinical studies shows the beneficial use of NRF2-inducing strategies, such as NRF2 activators (e.g., Bardoxolone methyl, Curcumin, Sulforaphane and their analogues), and other natural compounds with antioxidant properties in DKD treatment. However, limitations regarding the lack of larger clinical trials, solubility or delivery hamper their implementation for clinical use. Therefore, in this review, we will discuss DKD mechanisms, especially oxidative stress (OS) and NRF2/KEAP1/ARE involvement, while highlighting the potential of therapeutic approaches that target DKD via OS.

Receptor for Advanced Glycation End Products (RAGE): A Pivotal Hub in Immune Diseases

As a critical molecule in the onset and sustainment of inflammatory response, the receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) has a variety of ligands, such as advanced glycation end products (AGEs), S100/calcium granule protein, and high-mobility group protein 1 (HMGB1). Recently, an increasing number studies have shown that RAGE ligand binding can initiate the intracellular signal cascade, affect intracellular signal transduction, stimulate the release of cytokines, and play a vital role in the occurrence and development of immune-related diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, and Alzheimer’s disease. In addition, other RAGE signaling pathways can play crucial roles in life activities, such as inflammation, apoptosis, autophagy, and endoplasmic reticulum stress. Therefore, the strategy of targeted intervention in the RAGE signaling pathway may have significant therapeutic potential, attracting increasing attention. In this paper, through the systematic induction and analysis of RAGE-related signaling pathways and their regulatory mechanisms in immune-related diseases, we provide theoretical clues for the follow-up targeted intervention of RAGE-mediated diseases.

Neuroendocrine-Immune Regulatory Network of Eucommia ulmoides Oliver

Eucommia ulmoides Oliver (E. ulmoides) is a popular medicinal herb and health supplement in China, Japan, and Korea, and has a variety of pharmaceutical properties. The neuroendocrine-immune (NEI) network is crucial in maintaining homeostasis and physical or psychological functions at a holistic level, consistent with the regulatory theory of natural medicine. This review aims to systematically summarize the chemical compositions, biological roles, and pharmacological properties of E. ulmoides to build a bridge between it and NEI-associated diseases and to provide a perspective for the development of its new clinical applications. After a review of the literature, we found that E. ulmoides has effects on NEI-related diseases including cancer, neurodegenerative disease, hyperlipidemia, osteoporosis, insomnia, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and obesity. However, clinical studies on E. ulmoides were scarce. In addition, E. ulmoides derivatives are diverse in China, and they are mainly used to enhance immunity, improve hepatic damage, strengthen bones, and lower blood pressure. Through network pharmacological analysis, we uncovered the possibility that E. ulmoides is involved in functional interactions with cancer development, insulin resistance, NAFLD, and various inflammatory pathways associated with NEI diseases. Overall, this review suggests that E. ulmoides has a wide range of applications for NEI-related diseases and provides a direction for its future research and development.

Inhibitory effect of sea buckthorn extracts on advanced glycation endproduct formation

This study shows the inhibitory effect of sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) extracts, sea buckthorn leaf (HRL) and berry (HRB), on the formation of advanced glycation endproducts (AGEs), closely linked to diverse disease. In vitro assay revealed the superior inhibitory effect of HRL on the AGEs formation and AGEs-induced collagen crosslinking compared with that of HRB. Ultra-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry results revealed that HRL displays a higher inhibition efficiency on the AGEs formation at 30 AGEs binding sites in bovine serum albumin than HRB. The high concentration of 3-sophoroside-7-rhamnoside in HRL compared with that in HRB may result in the strong inhibitory effect of HRL compared with that of HRB. HRL also exhibited significantly higher ABTS and DPPH radical scavenging activities than HRB. Overall, this study demonstrated that HRL has excellent potential as a dietary agent for controlling various diseases mediated by AGEs and oxidative stress.

Optimization of the Extraction Technology and Assessment of Antioxidant Activity of Chlorogenic Acid-Rich Extracts From Eucommia ulmoides Leaves

Chlorogenic acid has been proved to have cardiovascular protection, antibacterial, antiviral, hemostatic, and hypolipidemia effects. Modern scientific research on the bioactivity of chlorogenic acid has been extended to the fields of food, medicine, health care and daily-use chemical industry. The aim of this research was to optimize the extraction conditions for chlorogenic acid from Eucommia ulmoides (Eucommiaceae) leaves. The significant variables were screened and optimized by a combination of Plackett-Burman test and Box-Behnken design. Optimum extraction parameters with ethanol concentration of 50%, solvent pH value of 3, and particle size of 60 mesh were determined according to variance analysis and contour plots. Under these conditions, the yield of chlorogenic acid was up to 4.36 mg/g, which was basically consistent with the theoretical prediction value of 4.50 mg/g. This study also proved the potential antioxidant activity of E. ulmoides leaves. The optimal extract of E. ulmoides leaves rich in chlorogenic acid showed the highest antioxidant activity in the FRAP method, which was 219.8 μM Trolox equivalents (TE) per g extract weight (EW) (μM TE/g EW). The DPPH method gave a similar value (168 μM TE/g EW) to the ABTS method (152 μM TE/g EW). The established extraction process was efficient in the recovery of chlorogenic acid from E. ulmoides leaves, encouraging its valorization as a cheap and sustainable alternative for the isolation of chlorogenic acid.

Evaluation of the Relationship Between Bioactive Components in Seaweeds and Advanced Glycation End-Products Inhibitory Activities Using Principal Component Analysis

This study comprehensively presents the relationship between the bioactive substance of 70% (v/v) aqueous ethanol extract of 38 species of seaweeds (SWEs), and anti-glycation activities. The contents of bioactive substance of SWEs, such as total phenolic, total flavonoid and condensed tannins, were determined through a colorimetric analysis. Among the tested species, Ecklonia bicyclis, Ishige foliacea, and Cladophora urightiana var. minor had the highest amount of total phenolic (255.75 mg GAE/g DW), total condensed tannins (63.36 mg CE/g DW), and total flavonoid content (85.26 mg CE/g DW), respectively. Anti-glycation properties of SWEs were evaluated through advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) formation, AGEs-collagen cross-link formation, and AGEs-collagen cross-link breaking assay. Brown algae species exhibited a more prominent inhibitory activity on AGEs formation and AGEs-collagen cross-links, and the breaking of AGEs-collagen cross-links compared to that exhibited by aminoguanidine and ALT-711 (positive controls). Using principal component analysis, we confirmed that the AGEs formation inhibitory property and AGEs-collagen cross-links breaking activity were closely correlated with total phenolic and the condensed tannin contents contained in SWEs. Therefore, the bioactive substances such as phenolics and condensed tannins in seaweeds can be used as predictive indices in selecting compounds for the development of a therapeutic agent that prevents diabetic complications related to the AGEs. In addition, our results suggest that brown algae species, which contains more bioactive substances than green and red algae species, can be utilized as a promising natural resource for the prevention and alleviation of AGEs-related diabetic complications as AGE inhibitor and cross-links breaker.

Ishige okamurae Ameliorates Methylglyoxal-Induced Nephrotoxicity via Reducing Oxidative Stress, RAGE Protein Expression, and Modulating MAPK, Nrf2/ARE Signaling Pathway in Mouse Glomerular Mesangial Cells

Advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) such as methylglyoxal (MGO) play a vital role in the pathogenesis of nephropathy, a diabetic complication. In the present study, we evaluated the anti-glycation and renal protective properties of Ishige okamurae extract (IOE) against AGE-induced oxidative stress. HPLC analysis confirmed that bioactive phlorotannins such as diphlorethohydroxycarmalol and ishophloroglucin A are predominantly present in IOE. IOE showed strong anti-glycation activities via inhibition of AGE formation, inhibition of AGE-protein cross-linking, and breaking of AGE-protein cross-links. In addition, in vitro studies using mesangial cells demonstrated that IOE effectively suppressed intracellular reactive oxygen species production, intracellular MGO accumulation, and apoptotic cell death by MGO-induced oxidative stress, in addition to regulating the expression of proteins involved in the receptor for AGEs and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/antioxidant response elements (ARE) signaling pathways. Therefore, IOE can serve as a natural therapeutic agent for the management of AGE-related nephropathy.

Traditional application and modern pharmacological research of Eucommia ulmoides Oliv

As a Traditional Chinese Medicine, Eucommia ulmoides Oliv. has been used for the treatment of various diseases since ancient times, involving lumbar pain, knee pain, osteoporosis, hepatoprotection, paralysis, intestinal haemorrhoids, vaginal bleeding, abortion, spermatorrhoea, foot fungus, anti-aging etc. With the developing discovery of E. ulmoides extracts and its active components in various pharmacological activities, E. ulmoides has gained more and more attention. Up to now, E. ulmoides has been revealed to show remarkable therapeutic effects on hypertension, hyperglycemia, diabetes, obesity, osteoporosis, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, sexual dysfunction. E. ulmoides has also been reported to possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, anti-fatigue, anti-aging, anti-cancer and immunoregulation activities etc. Along these lines, this review summarizes the traditional application and modern pharmacological research of E. ulmoides, providing novel insights of E. ulmoides in the treatment of various diseases.

Isoeucommin A attenuates kidney injury in diabetic nephropathy through the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a common complication in patients with diabetes and a leading cause of mortality. The management of DN in the clinic still remains a challenge. Therefore, the identification of novel compounds for DN treatment and their characterization in preclinical DN models are crucial. Isoeucommin A is a lignan compound isolated from Eucommia ulmoides Oliv, which has not been studied in detail. Our aim was to investigate the effect of Isoeucommin A in DN and to elucidate the molecular mechanisms though which Isoeucommin A acts in vitro and in vivo. We first isolated and purified Isoeucommin A by microporous resin column chromatography and studied the mass spectrogram, as well as the structure of Isoeucommin A, by high‐resolution electrospray ionization mass spectroscopy and NMR, respectively. We further established an in vivo rat DN model and measured the changes of blood glucose, body weight, kidney index (KI), blood urea nitrogen, creatinine (CRE), glutathione, malondialdehyde (MDA), SOD, albumin (ALB) and urinary ALB to CRE ratios on treatment with Isoeucommin A. In addition, we measured SOD, MDA, glycogen synthase kinase‐3β (GSK‐3β), phosphorylated (p)‐GSK‐3β, nuclear factor erythroid‐derived 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) and heme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1) levels by quantitative real‐time PCR and western blot, and estimated cell viability by a 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyl‐tetrazolium bromide assay. After Isoeucommin A treatment, body weight, as well as SOD, glutathione, HO‐1 and Nrf2 expression levels, in DN rats increased in a dose‐dependent manner. In contrast, the levels of blood glucose, KI, blood urea nitrogen, CRE, urinary ALB to CRE ratio, tumor necrosis factor‐α, interleukin‐1β, interleukin‐6 and MDA decreased significantly. In addition, Isoeucommin A protected H₂O₂‐stimulated renal tubular epithelial cells from oxidative stress and activated the Nrf2/HO‐1 signaling pathway in high‐glucose‐stimulated human renal mesangial cells. In conclusion, Isoeucommin A could alleviate inflammation and oxidative stress in in vitro and in vivo DN models and thus attenuate kidney injury by activating the Nrf2/HO‐1 signaling pathway. Isoeucommin A could have the potential to be used as an effective drug for the treatment of DN.

The Use of Chinese Yang/Qi-Invigorating Tonic Botanical Drugs/Herbal Formulations in Ameliorating Chronic Kidney Disease by Enhancing Mitochondrial Function

Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Mitochondrial dysfunction has been implicated as a key factor in the development of CKD. According to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) theory, many Chinese Yang/Qi-invigorating botanical drugs/herbal formulations have been shown to produce promising outcomes in the clinical management of CKD. Experimental studies have indicated that the health-promoting action of Yang/Qi invigoration in TCM is related to the up-regulation of mitochondrial energy generation and antioxidant status. Objective: In this review, we aim to test whether Chinese Yang/Qi-invigorating tonic botanical drugs/herbal formulations can provide medical benefits in CKD and its complications. And we also explore the possible involvement of mitochondrial-associated signaling pathway underlying the beneficial effects of Yang/Qi invigoration in TCM. Methods: A systematic search of "PubMed", "China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI)" and "Google Scholar" was carried out to collect all the available articles in English or Chinese related to Chinese Yang/Qi-invigorating tonic botanical drugs/herbal formulations and their effects on mitochondrial function and chronic kidney disease. Result and Discussion: The relationship between the progression of CKD and mitochondrial function is discussed. The effects of Chinese Yang/Qi-invigorating tonic botanical drugs/herbal formulations and their active ingredients, including phytosterols/triterpenes, flavonoids, and dibenzocyclooctadiene lignans, on CKD and related alterations in mitochondrial signaling pathways are also presented in this review. In the future, exploration of the possible beneficial effects and clinical studies of more Yang- and Qi-invigorating botanical drugs/herbal formulations in the prevention and/or/treatment of CKD and the molecular mechanisms relating to the enhancement of mitochondrial functions warrants further investigation. Conclusion: Given the critical role of mitochondrial function in safeguarding renal functional integrity, the enhancement of mitochondrial energy metabolism and antioxidant status in kidney tissue is likely involved in renal protection. Future studies on the biochemical and chemical basis underlying the effects of Chinese Yang/Qi-invigorating tonic botanical drugs/herbal formulations from a mitochondrial perspective will hopefully provide novel insights into the rational development of new drugs for the prevention and/or treatment of CKD.

Properties and molecular mechanisms underlying geniposide-mediated therapeutic effects in chronic inflammatory diseases

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Geniposide (GE) is ubiquitous in nearly 40 species of plants, among which Gardenia jasminoides J. Ellis has the highest content, and has been used ethnopharmacologically to treat chronic inflammatory diseases. As a traditional Chinese medicine, Gardenia jasminoides J. Ellis has a long history of usage in detumescence and sedation, liver protection and cholestasis, hypotension and hemostasis. It is commonly used in the treatment of diabetes, hypertension, jaundice hepatitis, sprain and contusion. As a type of iridoid glycosides extracted from Gardenia jasminoides J. Ellis, GE has many pharmacological effects, such as anti-inflammatory, anti-angiogenesic, anti-oxidative, etc. AIM OF THE REVIEW: In this article, we reviewed the sources, traditional usage, pharmacokinetics, toxicity and therapeutic effect of GE on chronic inflammatory diseases, and discussed its potential regulatory mechanisms and clinical application.

RESULTS

GE is a common iridoid glycoside in medicinal plants, which has strong activity in the treatment of chronic inflammatory diseases. A large number of in vivo and in vitro experiments confirmed that GE has certain therapeutic value for a variety of chronic inflammation disease. Its mechanism of function is mainly based on its anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, neuroprotective properties, as well as regulation of apoptotsis. GE plays a role in the treatment of chronic inflammatory diseases by regulating cell proliferation and apoptosis, realizing the dynamic balance of pro/anti-inflammatory factors, improving the state of oxidative stress, and restoring abnormally expressed inflammation-related pathways.

CONCLUSION

According to its extensive pharmacological effects, GE is a promising drug for the treatment of chronic inflammatory diseases.

The Development of Maillard Reaction, and Advanced Glycation End Product (AGE)-Receptor for AGE (RAGE) Signaling Inhibitors as Novel Therapeutic Strategies for Patients with AGE-Related Diseases

Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are generated by nonenzymatic modifications of macromolecules (proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids) by saccharides (glucose, fructose, and pentose) via Maillard reaction. The formed AGE molecules can be catabolized and cleared by glyoxalase I and II in renal proximal tubular cells. AGE-related diseases include physiological aging, neurodegenerative/neuroinflammatory diseases, diabetes mellitus (DM) and its complications, autoimmune/rheumatic inflammatory diseases, bone-degenerative diseases, and chronic renal diseases. AGEs, by binding to receptors for AGE (RAGEs), alter innate and adaptive immune responses to induce inflammation and immunosuppression via the generation of proinflammatory cytokines, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and reactive nitrogen intermediates (RNI). These pathological molecules cause vascular endothelial/smooth muscular/connective tissue-cell and renal mesangial/endothelial/podocytic-cell damage in AGE-related diseases. In the present review, we first focus on the cellular and molecular bases of AGE–RAGE axis signaling pathways in AGE-related diseases. Then, we discuss in detail the modes of action of newly discovered novel biomolecules and phytochemical compounds, such as Maillard reaction and AGE–RAGE signaling inhibitors. These molecules are expected to become the new therapeutic strategies for patients with AGE-related diseases in addition to the traditional hypoglycemic and anti-hypertensive agents. We particularly emphasize the importance of “metabolic memory”, the “French paradox”, and the pharmacokinetics and therapeutic dosing of the effective natural compounds associated with pharmacogenetics in the treatment of AGE-related diseases. Lastly, we propose prospective investigations for solving the enigmas in AGE-mediated pathological effects.

Polysaccharide fraction from greens of Raphanus sativus alleviates high fat diet-induced obesity

Radish (Raphanus sativus) greens are commonly used as a vegetable in Korea; however, their anti-obesity effect has not been reported yet. We prepared the polysaccharide fraction of radish greens (PRG) and assessed its anti-obesity activity in high fat diet (HFD)-induced obese C57BL/6J mice. Supplementation with 4 mg/kg PRG reduced weight gain and body fat percentage, and regulated serum biomarkers against HFD-induced obesity. Moreover, PRG treatment improved gut permeability by increasing tight junction protein expression and colon length shortening. HFD intake increased the proportion of Firmicutes and decreased the proportion of Bacteroidetes and Verrucomicrobia; however, PRG supplementation maintained gut microbial composition to normal diet condition. Moreover, PRG reduced HFD-induced increase of lipid metabolism-related protein expression, along with adipocyte size in white adipose tissue. These results indicated that PRG as a potential prebiotic, has anti-obesity properties by improving gut barrier function, modulating gut microbiota and regulating lipid metabolism.

Traditional Chinese medicine protects against hypertensive kidney injury in Dahl salt-sensitive rats by targeting transforming growth factor-β signaling pathway

This study investigated the therapeutic efficacy of Bu-Shen-Jiang-Ya decoction (BSJYD) on hypertensive renal damage to determine whether it regulates the expression of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)/SMADs signaling pathways, thereby relieving renal fibrosis in Dahl salt-sensitive (SS) rats. Dahl SS rats on a high-sodium diet were prospectively treated with BSJYD (n = 12) or valsartan (n = 12) for 8 weeks. The blood pressure (BP) of these rats was measured and their kidneys were subjected to biochemical analysis, including serum creatinine (Scr) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN); hematoxylin and eosin staining; Masson trichrome staining; real-time polymerase chain reaction; and western blot analysis. The primary outcome was that BSJYD significantly reduced BP, debased BUN, and Scr and ameliorated renal pathological changes. As underlying therapeutic mechanisms, BSJYD reduces TGFβ1 and Smad2/3 expression and suppresses renal fibrosis, as suggested by the decreased expression of connective tissue growth factor(CTGF). These data suggest that BSJYD acts as an optimal therapeutic agent for hypertensive renal damage by inhibiting the TGF-β/SMADs signaling pathway.

Geographic Authentication of Eucommia ulmoides Leaves Using Multivariate Analysis and Preliminary Study on the Compositional Response to Environment

To explore the influences of different cultivated areas on the chemical profiles of Eucommia ulmoides leaves (EUL) and rapidly authenticate its geographical origins, 187 samples from 13 provinces in China were systematically investigated using three data fusion strategies (low, mid, and high level) combined with two discrimination model algorithms (partial least squares discrimination analysis; random forest, RF). RF models constructed by high-level data fusion with different modes of different spectral data (Fourier transform near-infrared spectrum and attenuated total reflection Fourier transform mid-infrared spectrum) were most suitable for identifying EULs from different geographical origins. The accuracy rates of calibration and validation set were 92.86% and 93.44%, respectively. In addition, climate parameters were systematically investigated the cluster difference in our study. Some interesting and novel information could be found from the clustering tree diagram of hierarchical cluster analysis. The Xinjiang Autonomous Region (Region 5) located in the high latitude area was the only region in the middle temperate zone of all sample collection areas in which the samples belonged to an individual class no matter their distance in the tree diagram. The samples were from a relatively high elevation in the Shennongjia Forest District in Hubei Province (>1200 m), which is the main difference from the samples from Xiangyang City (78 m). Thus, the sample clusters from region 9 are different from the sample clusters from other regions. The results would provide a reference for further research to those samples from the special cluster.

Molecular mechanistic insight into the anti-hyperuricemic effect of Eucommia ulmoides in mice and rats

CONTEXT

Eucommia ulmoides Oliver (Eucommiaceae) has various medicinal properties. Our previous studies revealed that Eucommia ulmoides has a protective effect on hyperuricaemia.

OBJECTIVE

This study investigates the effect of Eucommia ulmoides cortex ethanol extract (EU) on hyperuricaemia and explores the underlying mechanism in Kunming mice and Sprague-Dawley rats.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Sixty mice and sixty rats were divided into normal control, hyperuricaemia, allopurinol (10 mg/kg) and three EU groups. The EU groups received intragastric EU at 80, 160, 320 mg/kg in mice and 100, 200, 400 mg/kg in rats for 7 days. Serum uric acid (SUA) was measured using a kit. mRNA and proteins were quantified by RT-qPCR and immunohistochemical assays (IHC), respectively.

RESULTS

The Maximal Tolerable Dose (MTD) of EU administered intragastrically was 18 g/kg in mice. The intermediate (160 mg/kg) and high (320 mg/kg) EU treatment significantly reduced (p < 0.05) SUA levels to 130.16 μmol/L and 109.29 μmol/L, respectively, and markedly elevated the mRNA expression of organic anion transporters 1 (OAT1) and organic anion transporters 3 (OAT3), while significantly deceasing the mRNA levels of glucose transporter 9 (GLUT9) and uric acid transporter 1 (URAT1) in the mouse kidney (p < 0.05). In hyperuricemic rats, high EU (400 mg/kg) significantly reduced SUA levels to 253.85 μmol/L, and increased OAT1 and OAT3 levels, but decreased URAT1 and GLUT9, compared to the hyperuricaemia group (p < 0.05).

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated the potential hyperuricaemia ameliorating effect of EU. Specific active ingredients in EU should be evaluated. These results are valuable for the development of antihyperuritic agents from EU.

Therapeutic Anabolic and Anticatabolic Benefits of Natural Chinese Medicines for the Treatment of Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a bone disease characterized by increasing osseous fragility and fracture due to the reduced bone mass and microstructural degradation. Primary pharmacological strategies for the treatment of osteoporosis, hormone replacement treatment (HRT), and alendronate therapies may produce adverse side-effects and may not be recommended for long-term usage. Some classic and bone-specific natural Chinese medicine are very popularly used to treat osteoporosis and bone fracture effectively in clinical with their potential value in bone growth and development, but with few adverse side-effects. Current evidence suggests that the treatments appear to improve bone metabolism and attenuate the osteoporotic imbalance between bone formation and bone resorption at a cellular level by promoting osteoblast activity and inhibiting the effects of osteoclasts. The valuable therapies might, therefore, provide an effective and safer alternative to primary pharmacological strategies. Therefore, the purpose of this article is to comprehensively review these classic and bone-specific drugs in natural Chinese medicines for the treatment of osteoporosis that had been deeply and definitely studied and reported with both bone formation and antiresorption effects, including Gynochthodes officinalis (F.C.How) Razafim. & B.Bremer (syn. Morinda officinalis F.C.How), Curculigo orchioides Gaertn., Psoralea corylifolia (L.) Medik Eucommia ulmoides Oliv., Dipsacus inermis Wall. (syn. Dipsacus asperoides C.Y.Cheng & T.M.Ai), Cibotium barometz (L.) J. Sm., Velvet Antler, Cistanche deserticola Ma, Cuscuta chinensis Lam., Cnidium monnieri (L.) Cusson, Epimedium brevicornum Maxim, Pueraria montana (Lour.) Merr. and Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge., thus providing evidence for the potential use of alternative Chinese medicine therapies to effectively treat osteoporosis.

Effect of Illicium verum or Eucommia ulmoides leaf extracts on the anti-stress ability, and mRNA and protein expression of Nrf2 and TNF-α in Duroc × Landrace × Yorkshire and Chinese native Licha-black nursery piglets

Plant extracts are considered to be an effective alternative to antibiotics in response to weaning stress in piglets. This study evaluated the effect of Illicium verum extracts (IVE) or Eucommia ulmoides leaf extracts (ELE) on growth performance, serum and liver antioxidant ability of nursery piglets, as well as the difference of IVE and ELE on Duroc × Landrace × Yorkshire (DLY) and Chinese native Licha-black (LCB) piglets. A total of 96 nursery piglets (48 DLY and 48 LCB piglets) with an average body weight of 11.22 ± 0.32 kg were randomly divided into four treatments in a 2 × 4 factorial design. Each treatment had four replicates with 3 DLY and 3 LCB piglets per replicate respectively. Treatments included: basal diet, basal diet + 500 mg/kg IVE, basal diet + 250 mg/kg ELE and basal diet + 50 mg/kg chlortetracycline (CHL). All piglets were housed individually for the 42 days trial period after 7 days adaptation. Results showed that there were significant interactions (p < .05) between piglets species and dietary treatments in average daily gain (ADG) and feed efficiency, serum and hepatic glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and malondialdehyde (MDA), hepatic integral optical density (IOD) of α-tumour necrosis factor (TNF-α), hepatic relative mRNA expressions of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/TNF-α and protein expression of TNF-α. Regardless of piglets species, supplementation with IVE and ELE increased (p < .05) ADG and feed efficiency, T-SOD and GSH-Px in serum and liver, hepatic IOD of Nrf2, hepatic mRNA and protein expression of Nrf2/TNF-α. However, CHL treatment resulted in lower (p < .05) serum GSH-Px and hepatic mRNA and protein expression of Nrf2/TNF-α, and higher hepatic MDA and IOD of TNF-α. Compared to LCB, DLY piglets had higher (p < .05) ADG and feed efficiency, serum and hepatic MDA, and protein expression of TNF-α, but lower (p < .05) ADFI, liver index, serum and hepatic GSH-Px, hepatic IOD of TNF-α, mRNA expressions of Nrf2/TNF-α were observed. In conclusion, Illicium verum (500 mg/kg) and Eucommia ulmoides leaf (250 mg/kg) extracts can increase the growth performance and antioxidant ability of DLY and LCB piglets, while chlortetracycline produces undesirable side-effects on the antioxidant ability of DLY and LCB piglets. Illicium verum and Eucommia ulmoides leaf extracts produced different antioxidant effects in DLY and LCB piglets with the Chinese native Licha-black pig responding better than Duroc × Landrace × Yorkshire.

Ethnobotany, Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Properties of Eucommia ulmoides: A Review

Eucommia ulmoides Oliver, a single species of Eucommia genus belonging to the Eucommiaceae family, is an endemic in China and has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for nearly two thousand years. Records from different historical periods highlight E. ulmoides and its officinal botanical parts, usefulness in adaptation to disease and its central role in Chinese medicine theory. There are also historical collection documents for minorities in China. Tearing the leaves, bark and fruit produces strands of latex; a description of E. ulmoides’s morphological features is recorded in this paper. This review summarizes 204 natural compounds isolated from this plant, which are divided into seven categories: lignans, iridoids, flavonoids, phenols, steroids, terpenes and others. These components possess wide-ranging pharmacological efficacies, such as antihypertensive, antihyperglycemic, antihyperlipidemia, anti-oxidative, anti-osteoporosis, antitumor, immunomodulatory and neuroprotective activities. This review aims to provide a reference for extensive researches of E. ulmoides crude drugs, especially for quality control, biosynthesis and structure modification of active ingredients and pharmacological mechanism.

Chrysin Inhibits Advanced Glycation End Products-Induced Kidney Fibrosis in Renal Mesangial Cells and Diabetic Kidneys

Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) play a causative role in the development of diabetic nephropathy via induction of matrix protein deposition in kidneys. This study investigated inhibitory effects of chrysin, present in bee propolis and herbs, on glomerulosclerosis in db/db mice and AGEs-exposed renal mesangial cells. The in vivo study explored the demoting effects of 10 mg/kg chrysin on glomerular fibrosis in a type 2 diabetic model. Oral supplementation of chrysin inhibited the collagen fiber accumulation and &alpha;-smooth muscle actin (&alpha;-SMA) induction in periodic acid schiff-positive renal tissues of db/db mice. Moreover, treating db/db mice with chrysin diminished the level of AGEs increased in diabetic glomeruli. The in vitro study employed human mesangial cells exposed to 100 &mu;g/mL AGE-BSA for 72 h in the presence of 1⁻20 &mu;M chrysin. Glucose increased mesangial AGE production via induction of receptor for AGEs. Chrysin suppressed the induction of collagens, &alpha;-SMA, fibroblast-specific protein-1 and matrix metalloproteinases enhanced by AGE-bovine serum albumin. Furthermore, chrysin blunted transforming growth factor-&beta;1 induction and Smad 2/3 activation in AGEs-exposed mesangial cells. These results demonstrate that chrysin attenuated accumulation of myofibroblast-like cells and matrix proteins in AGEs-laden diabetic glomeruli. Therefore, chrysin may be a potential renoprotective agent targeting glucose-mediated AGEs-associated glomerulosclerosis and fibrosis.