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Sun D, Li S, Huang H, Xu L. Neurotoxicity of melittin: Role of mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation system in synaptic plasticity dysfunction. Toxicology 2023; 497-498:153628. [PMID: 37678661 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2023.153628] [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: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
Melittin (Mel), a main active peptide component of bee venom, has been proven to possess strong antitumor activity. Previous studies have shown that Mel caused severe cell membrane lysis and acted on the central nervous system (CNS). Here, this study was designed to investigate the effects of Mel on CNS and explore the potential mechanism. We confirmed the neurotoxic effect of melittin by in vivo and in vitro experiments. After subcutaneous administration of Mel (4 mg/kg, 8 mg/kg) for 14 days, the mice exhibited obvious depression-like behavior in a dose dependent manner. Besides, RNA-sequencing analysis revealed that oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) signaling pathway was mostly enriched in hippocampus. Consistently, we found that Mel distinctly inhibited the activity of OXPHOS complex I and induced oxidative stress injury. Moreover, Mel significantly induced synaptic plasticity dysfunction in hippocampus via BDNF/TrkB/CREB signaling pathway. Taken together, the neurotoxic effect of Mel was involved in impairing OXPHOS system and hippocampal synaptic plasticity. These novel findings provide new insights into fully understanding the health risks of Mel and are conducive to the development of Mel related drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Sun
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Inflammation and Molecular Drug Targets, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
| | - Shanshan Li
- School of Pharmacy, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui 233000, China
| | - Haiqin Huang
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Inflammation and Molecular Drug Targets, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
| | - Lixing Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Inflammation and Molecular Drug Targets, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China.
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Antioxidant and Antihyperglycemic Effects of Ephedra foeminea Aqueous Extract in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14112338. [PMID: 35684137 PMCID: PMC9182796 DOI: 10.3390/nu14112338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2022] [Revised: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Ephedra foeminea is known in Jordan as Alanda and traditionally. It is used to treat respiratory symptoms such as asthma and skin rashes as an infusion in boiling water. The purpose of this study was to determine the antidiabetic property of Ephedra foeminea aqueous extract in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Methods: The aqueous extract of Ephedra foeminea plant was used to determine the potential of its efficacy in the treatment of diabetes, and this extract was tested on diabetic rats as a model. The chemical composition of Ephedra foeminea aqueous extract was determined using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Antioxidant activity was assessed using two classical assays (ABTS and DPPH). Results: The most abundant compounds in the Ephedra foeminea extract were limonene (6.3%), kaempferol (6.2%), stearic acid (5.9%), β-sitosterol (5.5%), thiamine (4.1%), riboflavin (3.1%), naringenin (2.8%), kaempferol-3-rhamnoside (2.3%), quercetin (2.2%), and ferulic acid (2.0%). The antioxidant activity of Ephedra foeminea aqueous extract was remarkable, as evidenced by radical scavenging capacities of 12.28 mg Trolox/g in ABTS and 72.8 mg GAE/g in DPPH. In comparison to control, induced diabetic rats treated with Ephedra foeminea extract showed significant improvement in blood glucose levels, lipid profile, liver, and kidney functions. Interleukin 1 and glutathione peroxidase levels in the spleen, pancreas, kidney, and liver of induced diabetic rats treated with Ephedra foeminea extract were significantly lower than in untreated diabetic rats. Conclusions: Ephedra foeminea aqueous extract appears to protect diabetic rats against oxidative stress and improve blood parameters. In addition, it has antioxidant properties that might be very beneficial medicinally.
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Zhang YY, Huang YF, Liang J, Zhou H. Improved up-and-down procedure for acute toxicity measurement with reliable LD 50 verified by typical toxic alkaloids and modified Karber method. BMC Pharmacol Toxicol 2022; 23:3. [PMID: 34983670 PMCID: PMC8725450 DOI: 10.1186/s40360-021-00541-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Up-and-down procedure (UDP) was recommended to replace traditional acute toxicity methods. However, it was limited due to the long experimental period (20–42 days). To improve UDP, an improved UDP method (iUDP) was developed by shortening observation time between sequence dosages. The aim of this study was to test the reliability of iUDP to provide a reliable method for the acute toxicity measurement of valuable or minor amount compounds. Methods Oral median lethal dose (LD50) of nicotine, sinomenine hydrochloride and berberine hydrochloride were measured both by iUDP and modified Karber method (mKM). Results LD50 of the three alkaloids measured by iUDP with 23 mice were 32.71 ± 7.46, 453.54 ± 104.59, 2954.93 ± 794.88 mg/kg, respectively. LD50 of the three alkaloids measured by mKM with 240 mice were 22.99 ± 3.01, 456.56 ± 53.38, 2825.53 ± 1212.92 mg/kg, respectively. The average time consumed by the two methods were 22 days and 14 days respectively. Total grams of the alkaloids used by the two methods were 0.0082 and 0.0673 (nicotine), 0.114 and 1.24 (sinomenine hydrochloride), 1.9 and 12.7 (berberine hydrochloride). Conclusion iUDP could replace mKM to detect acute toxicity of substances with comparable and reliable result. And it is suitable for valuable or minor amount substances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Yu Zhang
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macao, PR China
| | - Yu-Feng Huang
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macao, PR China
| | - Jie Liang
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macao, PR China
| | - Hua Zhou
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macao, PR China. .,Zhuhai Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Zhuhai, Guangdong Province, 519000, PR China. .,Joint Laboratory for Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicine of the Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China.
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Seif M, Deabes M, El-Askary A, El-Kott AF, Albadrani GM, Seif A, Wang Z. Ephedra sinica mitigates hepatic oxidative stress and inflammation via suppressing the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB pathway in fipronil-treated rats. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:62943-62958. [PMID: 34218381 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-15142-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Ephedra sinica (ES) is a promising medicinal plant with a wide range of pharmacological aspects, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Fipronil (FN) is a popularly used systemic insecticide in agriculture and veterinary applications. FN exposure can result in a variety of negative health consequences. The study aimed to explore the prophylactic effects of Ephedra sinica extract (ESE) against hepatotoxicity in FN-treated rats by following the TLR4/ MyD88/ NF-κB pathway. ESE was tested for polyphenolic and antioxidant activity. Forty rats were separated into four groups and given orally by FN (10 mg/kg B.W.) and/or ESE (150 mg/kg B.W.). Blood and tissue samples were collected at the end of the experiment and prepared for pathophysiological, gene expression, and pathological analysis. ESE showed strong antioxidant activity, as well as reduced levels of hepatic MDA and oxidative stress markers (H2O2, NO). Hepatic SOD and CAT activities were increased even further. Furthermore, in FN-treated rats, ESE improved liver functions (ALT, AST, ALP, and LDH) and recovered the lipid profile (Cho, TriG, HDL, and LDL). Moreover, by inhibiting TLR4/ MyD88/ NF-κB induction, ESE alleviated hepatic pathological changes and decreased FN-induced elevations of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β mRNA/protein levels. These findings suggested that ESE mitigated FN-induced hepatotoxicity via combating oxidative stress and relieving inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Seif
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, 22 Xinong Road, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, China.
- Toxicology and Food Contaminants Department, Food Industries and Nutrition Research Division, National Research Centre, Dokki, Giza, P.O, 12622, Egypt.
| | - Mohamed Deabes
- Toxicology and Food Contaminants Department, Food Industries and Nutrition Research Division, National Research Centre, Dokki, Giza, P.O, 12622, Egypt
| | - Ahmad El-Askary
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif, 21944, Saudi Arabia
| | - Attalla F El-Kott
- Biology Department, Faculty of Science, King Khalid University, Abha, 61421, Saudi Arabia
- Zoology Department, College of Science, Damanhour University, Damanhour, 22511, Egypt
| | - Ghadeer M Albadrani
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, 11474, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amr Seif
- Faculty of Medicine, Assuit University, Asyut, 71516, Egypt
| | - Zaizhao Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, 22 Xinong Road, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, China
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The quality of information available about Ephedra sinica on online vendor websites: The Canadian consumer experience. Complement Ther Med 2021; 57:102674. [PMID: 33515681 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2021.102674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ephedra sinica (ES) is a natural health product used to promote weight loss, enhance athletic performance, and treat common ailments such as the common cold or flu. Due to restrictions within Canada, Canadians interested in purchasing this product turn to online vendors for the ease and discrete nature of online transactions. However, the information available on these websites for consumers looking to purchase the substance is variable. This study investigated the quality of information about ES available to Canadian consumers on the websites of these online vendors. METHODS Following searches on Google.ca, eligible websites were assessed using the DISCERN instrument, a tool consisting of 16 questions, each rated on a five-point Likert scale, to assess the quality of health information about a treatment choice. The data was used to determine the overall quality of information about ES available to consumers on these websites. RESULTS A total of 660 webpages were identified, of which 28 websites were found to be eligible. It was determined that the overall quality of information of websites selling ES products online was poor, as 79 % of online vendors received an average score of 2 or below. CONCLUSION Consumers looking to purchase ES online are lacking critical information about this herbal product that is necessary to make an informed decision about its use. This study's findings can be used by clinicians and researchers to inform patients about the poor quality of information about ES on these websites and help them identify quality sources of information.
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Wu X, Lu W, Guo Q, Cao M, Zhang W, Liu C, Qu Y, Peng W, Che J, Fang B, Zhou S. Novel coronavirus pneumonia (COVID-19) combined with Chinese and Western medicine based on "Internal and External Relieving -Truncated Torsion" strategy. Medicine (Baltimore) 2020; 99:e23874. [PMID: 33371175 PMCID: PMC7748371 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000023874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The outbreak of novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has caused a global pandemic since December 2020. It has not only associated with physiological disorder but also with psychological distress and symptoms of mental illness. Whether the vaccines and antivirals can provide protects remains unknown. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is recommended as an alternative and significant way of preventing and treating COVID-19 in China. However, few studies have assessed the benefits of this treatment and mental health after they recover. Our study is designed to investigate effects and safety when using TCM on the course of this disease and the impact of COVID-19 on pandemic-related anxiety. METHOD For this prospective cohort study, we will enroll 300 COVID-19 patients aged 18 to 80 years at 4 centers. We divide them into 2 groups, according to whether they use Baidu Jieduan Granule at a ratio of 1:1. We will compare treatments combined Baidu Jieduan Granule with conventional Western medicine (experimental group) vs treatment of conventional Western medicine only (control group). The basic information of patients including demographic, general condition, primary diseases, and complications will be assessed. Related examines will be conducted at 1, 3, 5, 7, and 14 days. The primary outcomes are clinical outcome. A follow-up time of 1 year (to June 30, 2021) allow us to evaluate the psychiatric disorder after recovery. We will monitor adverse events throughout the trial. DISCUSSION It will be the first prospective cohort study which uses Baidu Jieduan Granule, based on the innovation traditional Chinese medicine strategy of " Internal and External Relieving -Truncated Torsion " to treat the common type of COVID-19. The result of this study may provide evidence-based recommendations of TCM for treatment and psychological distress or symptoms of mental illness of the common type of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinxin Wu
- LongHua Hospital Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, NO.725 Wanping South Road, Xuhui District
- Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, NO.1200 Cai Lun Road, Zhangjiang Hi-Tech Park, Pudong New Area, Shanghai
| | - Wei Lu
- LongHua Hospital Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, NO.725 Wanping South Road, Xuhui District
| | - Quan Guo
- LongHua Hospital Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, NO.725 Wanping South Road, Xuhui District
| | - Min Cao
- LongHua Hospital Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, NO.725 Wanping South Road, Xuhui District
| | - Wen Zhang
- LongHua Hospital Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, NO.725 Wanping South Road, Xuhui District
- Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, NO.1200 Cai Lun Road, Zhangjiang Hi-Tech Park, Pudong New Area, Shanghai
| | - Changya Liu
- Hubei Provincial Hospital of TCM, NO.856 Luoyu Road, Hongshan District, Wuhan, China
| | - Yao Qu
- LongHua Hospital Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, NO.725 Wanping South Road, Xuhui District
- Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, NO.1200 Cai Lun Road, Zhangjiang Hi-Tech Park, Pudong New Area, Shanghai
| | - Wei Peng
- LongHua Hospital Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, NO.725 Wanping South Road, Xuhui District
- Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, NO.1200 Cai Lun Road, Zhangjiang Hi-Tech Park, Pudong New Area, Shanghai
| | - Jinhua Che
- LongHua Hospital Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, NO.725 Wanping South Road, Xuhui District
- Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, NO.1200 Cai Lun Road, Zhangjiang Hi-Tech Park, Pudong New Area, Shanghai
| | - Bangjiang Fang
- LongHua Hospital Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, NO.725 Wanping South Road, Xuhui District
| | - Shuang Zhou
- Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, NO.1200 Cai Lun Road, Zhangjiang Hi-Tech Park, Pudong New Area, Shanghai
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Miao SM, Zhang Q, Bi XB, Cui JL, Wang ML. A review of the phytochemistry and pharmacological activities of Ephedra herb. Chin J Nat Med 2020; 18:321-344. [PMID: 32451091 DOI: 10.1016/s1875-5364(20)30040-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Ephedra herb is a traditional Chinese medicine with a long history. Conventionally, it was used as a folk phytomedicine in many ancient medical books and traditional prescriptions. Up to date, a variety of specific ingredients have been found in Ephedra herb, mainly including alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, polysaccharides, organic acids, volatile oils, and many other active compounds. These components from Ephedra herb account for its use as the accurate treatment of cold, cough, cardiovascular and immune system disease, cancer, microbial infection, and other diseases. Moreover, with the fast development of novel chemistry and medicine technology, new chemical constituents and pharmacological effects of Ephedra herb are increasingly identified, demonstrating their great potential for various diseases treatment. Therefore, further detailed understanding and investigation of this ancient herb will offer new opportunities to develop novel therapeutics. This study systematically reviews its progress of phytochemistry, traditional and modern pharmacology based on research data that have been reported, aiming at providing useful insight for commercial exploitation, further study and precision medication of Ephedra herb in future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuang-Man Miao
- Institute of Applied Chemistry, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China; Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China
| | - Qi Zhang
- Institute of Applied Chemistry, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China; Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China
| | - Xiao-Bao Bi
- Centre for Biomimetic Sensor Science (CBSS), School of Materials Science & Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637553, Singapore
| | - Jin-Long Cui
- Institute of Applied Chemistry, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China.
| | - Meng-Liang Wang
- Institute of Applied Chemistry, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China
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Cao P, Wu S, Wu T, Deng Y, Zhang Q, Wang K, Zhang Y. The important role of polysaccharides from a traditional Chinese medicine-Lung Cleansing and Detoxifying Decoction against the COVID-19 pandemic. Carbohydr Polym 2020; 240:116346. [PMID: 32475597 PMCID: PMC7175912 DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2020.116346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2020] [Revised: 04/11/2020] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
The new coronavirus pneumonia, named COVID-19 by the World Health Organization, has become a pandemic. It is highly pathogenic and reproduces quickly. There are currently no specific drugs to prevent the reproduction and spread of COVID-19. Some traditional Chinese medicines, especially the Lung Cleansing and Detoxifying Decoction (Qing Fei Pai Du Tang), have shown therapeutic effects on mild and ordinary COVID-19 patients. Polysaccharides are important ingredients in this decoction. This review summarizes the potential pharmacological activities of polysaccharides isolated by hot water extraction from Lung Cleansing and Detoxifying Decoction, which is consistent with its production method, to provide the theoretical basis for ongoing research on its application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Cao
- Department of Pharmacy, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China; Hubei Province Clinical Research Center for Precision Medicine for Critical Illness, Wuhan, 430022 China.
| | - Sanlan Wu
- Department of Pharmacy, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China; Hubei Province Clinical Research Center for Precision Medicine for Critical Illness, Wuhan, 430022 China
| | - Tingting Wu
- Department of Pharmacy, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China; Hubei Province Clinical Research Center for Precision Medicine for Critical Illness, Wuhan, 430022 China
| | - Yahui Deng
- Department of Pharmacy, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China; Hubei Province Clinical Research Center for Precision Medicine for Critical Illness, Wuhan, 430022 China
| | - Qilin Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China; Hubei Province Clinical Research Center for Precision Medicine for Critical Illness, Wuhan, 430022 China
| | - Kaiping Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China; Hubei Province Clinical Research Center for Precision Medicine for Critical Illness, Wuhan, 430022 China.
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Herbal formulation MIT ameliorates high-fat diet-induced non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Integr Med Res 2020; 9:100422. [PMID: 32489856 PMCID: PMC7260683 DOI: 10.1016/j.imr.2020.100422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Revised: 04/23/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the most common liver diseases and is caused by obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and insulin resistance. Many studies have explored novel candidates to treat NAFLD using herbal medicines owing to their fewer side effects. In this study, we examined the effect of MIT, an herbal formula comprising Ephedra sinica, Panax ginseng, and Alisma orientale, on the murine model of NAFLD. Methods To evaluate the effect of MIT on NAFLD, we used the high-fat diet (HFD)-induced NAFLD mice model. The mice were divided into four groups: control, HFD, HFD with metformin administration, and HFD with MIT administration. Freeze-dried MIT was dissolved in phosphate buffered saline and orally administered for 8 weeks to MIT-treated mice (60 mg/kg) after feeding them with HFD for 16 weeks. Results MIT treatment significantly attenuated fat accumulation, serum glucose levels, and excessive cholesterol. It also reduced the activation of NF-κB, JNK, ERK, mammalian target of rapamycin, and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ in the HFD-induced NAFLD mice. The expression level of enzymes involved in the synthesis and oxidation of fatty acids, acetyl-coA carboxylase and CYP2E1, were clearly reduced by MIT treatment. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and subsequent liver damage were effectively reduced by MIT treatment. Conclusion We suggest that MIT is a potent herbal formula that can be used for the prevention and treatment of obesity-related NAFLD via regulating the levels of serum glucose and free fatty acids, inflammation, lipid accumulation, and ROS-mediated liver damage.
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Lee SE, Lim C, Lim S, Lee B, Cho S. Effect of Ephedrae Herba methanol extract on high-fat diet-induced hyperlipidaemic mice. PHARMACEUTICAL BIOLOGY 2019; 57:676-683. [PMID: 31545933 PMCID: PMC6764353 DOI: 10.1080/13880209.2019.1666883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Context: Ephedrae Herba (EH), the dried stems and leaves of Ephedra sinica Stapf., E. intermedia Schrenk et C. A. Mey., or E. equisetina Bge. (Ephedraceae [Ephedra]) is used to treat respiratory diseases. Recently, especially in the Republic of Korea, EH has also been used for weight reduction. Objective: We evaluated the effects and molecular targets of methanol EH extract (EHM) on high-fat diet (HFD)-induced hyperlipidemic ICR mice. Materials and methods: EHM was orally administered (100 mg/kg body weight/day) for 3 weeks. We observed changes in body weight (BW), total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol, and triglycerides to evaluate the physiological changes induced by HFD or EHM administration. To evaluate lipid peroxidation and liver toxicity, malondialdehyde and blood alanine aminotransferase levels were measured. In addition to analyzing liver gene expression profiles, EHM target proteins were identified using a protein interaction database. Results: EHM administration for 3 weeks significantly (p < 0.05) decreased TC and triglyceride levels without altering BW in mice, and gene expression levels in the livers of EHM-treated mice were restored at 34.0% and 48.4% of those up- or down-regulated by hyperlipidaemia, respectively. Proteins related to DNA repair and energy metabolism were identified via protein interaction network analysis as molecular targets of EHM that play key roles in ameliorating hyperlipidaemia. Discussion and conclusions: EHM regulated hyperlipidaemia by decreasing total blood lipid and triglyceride levels in hyperlipidaemic mice. EHM showed preventive effects against hyperlipidaemia in mice, possibly via the regulation of DNA repair and the expression of energy metabolism-related genes and proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Se-Eun Lee
- Department of Korean Medicine, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Gyeongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Chiyeon Lim
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, Dongguk University, Republic of Korea
| | - Sehyun Lim
- Department of Nursing Science, School of Public Health, Far East University, Chungbuk, Republic of Korea
| | - Byoungho Lee
- Department of Nursing Science, School of Public Health, Far East University, Chungbuk, Republic of Korea
| | - Suin Cho
- Department of Korean Medicine, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Gyeongnam, Republic of Korea
- CONTACT Suin Cho School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, Beomeo-ri, Mulgeum-eup, Yangsan City, Gyeongnam 50612, Republic of Korea
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Dai Y, Li Q, Tong J, Verpoorte R, Zhao SJ, Qin XM, Chen S. Quality marker identification based on standard decoction of differently processed materials of Ephedrae Herba. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2019; 237:47-54. [PMID: 30898554 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2019.03.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2019] [Revised: 03/02/2019] [Accepted: 03/09/2019] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE The quality control of Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is a scientific problem and an industrial issue, which hampers the development of evidence based TCM. The concept of quality markers (Q-markers) is proposed and has been applied to the quality evaluation of TCM based on its clinical efficacy. However, more specific methods are needed to put this idea into practice. The standard decoction is a representative of decoction used in clinical practice and it can be used for the discovery of Q-markers related to the clinical efficacy of TCM. AIM OF THE STUDY In this study, a systemic strategy was established to discover Q-markers related to the clinical efficacy of TCM Ephedrae Herba (EH), dried stem of Ephedra sinica Stapf. The different processed materials of EH have different clinical applications, though originating from the same medicinal herb. MATERIALS AND METHODS The standard decoction of each of the processed materials was prepared and a 1HNMR metabolomics approach and total polysaccharide analysis were used to identify potential Q-markers related to the different clinical applications of EH. Correlation analysis was made of the measured biological activity and the holistic chemical profile. RESULTS The results showed that total polysaccharides and alkaloids were Q-markers for EH preparations. CONCLUSION This study demonstrates that the standard decoction is a reasonable research objective to explore chemical markers that correlate with the clinical efficacy of TCM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuntao Dai
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.
| | - Qi Li
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jiayu Tong
- Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanxi University, Shanxi, China
| | - Robert Verpoorte
- Natural Products Laboratory, Institute of Biology, Leiden University, Sylviusweg 72, 2333BE, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Si-Jun Zhao
- Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanxi University, Shanxi, China; Shanxi Institute for Food and Drug Control, Taiyuan, 030001, China
| | - Xue-Mei Qin
- Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanxi University, Shanxi, China
| | - Shilin Chen
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.
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Ben Lamine J, Boujbiha MA, Dahane S, Cherifa AB, Khlifi A, Chahdoura H, Yakoubi MT, Ferchichi S, El Ayeb N, Achour L. α-Amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitor effects and pancreatic response to diabetes mellitus on Wistar rats of Ephedra alata areal part decoction with immunohistochemical analyses. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2019; 26:9739-9754. [PMID: 30729433 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-019-04339-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2018] [Accepted: 01/22/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Ephedra alata, known as a medicinal plant in China, was used in this study as aqueous extract from aerial parts, for diabetes mellitus treatment. This study was carried out on two parts, in vitro, we tested the effect of the studied extract on the inhibition of α-glucosidase and α-amylase activities, and in vivo on Wistar male rats receiving alloxan intraperitoneally at a rate of 125 mg/kg. Extract (100, 200, and 300 mg/kg of body weight) was administrated for 28 days by oral gavage. Blood glucose, amylase, lipase, and lipid profile level were determined. Oxidative stress was evaluated by enzymatic activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and by estimation of lipid peroxidation and protein carbonyl (PC) level. Histopathological changes in pancreas were investigated under photonic microscopy using immunohistochemical procedure. Our findings showed that aqueous extract inhibited in vitro both α-glucosidase and α-amylase activities and its use in vivo at 300 mg/kg of body weight restored pancreas weight and weight gain, ameliorated significantly (p ˂ 0.05) biochemical parameters; it prevented the increase in lipid and protein oxidation and the decrease in enzymatic and non-enzymatic defense system. Histological study of treated animals showed a comparable healed regeneration of beta cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jihene Ben Lamine
- Institut Supérieur de Biotechnologie de Monastir, Laboratoire de Recherche : Bioressources, Biologie Intégrative & Valorisation, Université de Monastir, LR14ES06, BP 74, 5000, Monastir, Tunisia.
- Faculté des Sciences de Tunis, Université de Tunis El Manar, 2092, Tunis, Tunisia.
| | - Mouhamed Ali Boujbiha
- Institut Supérieur de Biotechnologie de Monastir, Laboratoire de Recherche : Bioressources, Biologie Intégrative & Valorisation, Université de Monastir, LR14ES06, BP 74, 5000, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Sabra Dahane
- Institut Supérieur de Biotechnologie de Monastir, Laboratoire de Recherche : Bioressources, Biologie Intégrative & Valorisation, Université de Monastir, LR14ES06, BP 74, 5000, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Amal Ben Cherifa
- Institut Supérieur de Biotechnologie de Monastir, Laboratoire de Recherche : Bioressources, Biologie Intégrative & Valorisation, Université de Monastir, LR14ES06, BP 74, 5000, Monastir, Tunisia
- Faculté des Sciences de Gabes, Université de Gabes, Gabes, Tunisia
| | - Aida Khlifi
- Institut Supérieur de Biotechnologie de Monastir, Laboratoire de Recherche : Bioressources, Biologie Intégrative & Valorisation, Université de Monastir, LR14ES06, BP 74, 5000, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Hassiba Chahdoura
- Institut Supérieur de Biotechnologie de Monastir, Laboratoire de Recherche : Bioressources, Biologie Intégrative & Valorisation, Université de Monastir, LR14ES06, BP 74, 5000, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Mouhamed Taher Yakoubi
- Laboratoire d'anatomie et pathologie, Centre Hôpital Universitaire Farhat Hached, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Salima Ferchichi
- Laboratoire de biochimie, Centre Hôpital Universitaire Farhat Hached, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Nacer El Ayeb
- Institut Supérieur de Biotechnologie de Monastir, Laboratoire de Recherche : Bioressources, Biologie Intégrative & Valorisation, Université de Monastir, LR14ES06, BP 74, 5000, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Lotfi Achour
- Institut Supérieur de Biotechnologie de Monastir, Laboratoire de Recherche : Bioressources, Biologie Intégrative & Valorisation, Université de Monastir, LR14ES06, BP 74, 5000, Monastir, Tunisia
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Abstract
The genus Ephedra of the Ephedraceae family contains more than 60 species of nonflowering seed plants distributed throughout Asia, America, Europe, and North Africa. These Ephedra species have medicinal, ecological, and economic value. This review aims to summarize the chemical constituents and pharmacological activities of the Ephedra species to unveil opportunities for future research. Comprehensive information on the Ephedra species was collected by electronic search (e.g., GoogleScholar, Pubmed, SciFinder, and Web of Science) and phytochemical books. The chemical compounds isolated from the Ephedra species include alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, polysaccharides, and others. The in vitro and in vivo pharmacological studies on the crude extracts, fractions and few isolated compounds of Ephedra species showed anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antibacterial, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, anti-obesity, antiviral, and diuretic activities. After chemical and pharmacological profiling, current research is focused on the antibacterial and antifungal effects of the phenolic acid compounds, the immunosuppressive activity of the polysaccharides, and the antitumor activity of flavonoids.
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The Combination of Ephedrae herba and Coicis semen in Gambihwan Attenuates Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome in High-Fat Diet-Induced Obese Mice. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2018; 2018:5614091. [PMID: 30210573 PMCID: PMC6120302 DOI: 10.1155/2018/5614091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2018] [Accepted: 08/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Gambihwan is a herbal prescription used in Korean medicine to treat obesity. The authors evaluated the effects and mechanisms of two types of Gambihwan (GBH1 and 2) administered to high-fat diet- (HFD-) induced obese mice. Four-week-old C57BL/6 mice were fed a HFD for 8 weeks with or without GBH1 or 2 (100-200 mg/kg/day by oral gavage). All mice were subjected to glucose tolerance testing after the 8-week treatment period and then euthanized. Serum insulin, lipids, and inflammatory cytokine levels were analyzed using commercial kits. Hepatic enzyme levels and lipid profiles were also investigated. Liver section slides were stained with Oil Red O (ORO) or hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) to assess lipid accumulation. GBH1 and 2 both significantly decreased body, liver, or adipose tissue weights in HFD-fed mice and significantly improved glucose tolerance (p<0.05 in all groups). Cholesterol levels in both sera and liver homogenates were significantly decreased by GBH1 and 2 (p<0.05 in all groups). In addition, serum inflammatory cytokines (p<0.05 in 200 mg/kg/day groups) and hepatic enzyme levels were significantly diminished by GBH administration at 200mg/kg/day (p<0.05 in all groups). Furthermore, histologic analyses of liver sections revealed GBH suppressed lipid accumulation. Both GBH types suppressed HFD-induced increases in body weight and obesity-related markers in HFD-fed mice despite the difference in constituents between GBH1 and 2. It is strongly assumed that the combination of Ephedrae herba and Coicis semen exerted the antiobesity effect. The results obtained show that the antiobesity effects of GBH warrant further investigation.
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Li HM, Shi YL, Wen D, Luo HM, Lin X, Xiao F. A novel effective chemical hemin for the treatment of acute carbon monoxide poisoning in mice. Exp Ther Med 2017; 14:5186-5192. [PMID: 29201235 PMCID: PMC5704266 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2017.5157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2016] [Accepted: 03/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
There is no effective drug for the therapy of acute carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the potential preventive and therapeutic effects of hemin on an animal model of acute CO poisoning and to provide a potential therapeutic candidate drug. A total of 80 Kunming mice were randomly divided into four groups, namely the air control, acute CO poisoning, hemin-treatment + CO and hemin-pretreatment + CO groups (n=20 each). Furthermore, the mortality rate of mice, blood carboxyhaemoglobin (HbCO) concentration and serum malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration were measured, and pathological changes of the hippocampal area were determined using histochemical staining. The mice with acute CO poisoning had a 50% mortality rate at 1 h, with an increase in blood HbCO, serum MDA levels and pathological impairments of the hippocampus. Furthermore, the mortality rate, blood HbCO and serum MDA levels of mice with pretreatment and treatment of hemin were decreased. Additionally, the pathological changes of the hippocampal area were improved in the hemin-treatment and hemin-pretreatment groups compared with the mice treated with CO. These results suggest that hemin is a novel effective chemical for the prevention and treatment of acute CO poisoning in mice. Therefore, the present study provides a novel method and experimental basis for the application of hemin in treating patients with acute CO poisoning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Min Li
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, P.R. China.,The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, P.R. China.,International School of Clinical Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, P.R. China
| | - Ying-Lu Shi
- International School of Clinical Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, P.R. China
| | - Di Wen
- International School of Clinical Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, P.R. China
| | - Huan-Min Luo
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, P.R. China
| | - Xi Lin
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, P.R. China.,Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Environmental Exposure and Health, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, P.R. China
| | - Fei Xiao
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, P.R. China.,Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Environmental Exposure and Health, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, P.R. China
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Zhang Y, Wang Z, Jin G, Yang X, Zhou H. Regulating dyslipidemia effect of polysaccharides from Pleurotus ostreatus on fat-emulsion-induced hyperlipidemia rats. Int J Biol Macromol 2017; 101:107-116. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2017.03.084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2017] [Revised: 03/09/2017] [Accepted: 03/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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