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Zhou Y, Zhang D, Cheng H, Wu J, Liu J, Feng W, Peng C. Repairing gut barrier by traditional Chinese medicine: roles of gut microbiota. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2024; 14:1389925. [PMID: 39027133 PMCID: PMC11254640 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2024.1389925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Gut barrier is not only part of the digestive organ but also an important immunological organ for the hosts. The disruption of gut barrier can lead to various diseases such as obesity and colitis. In recent years, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has gained much attention for its rich clinical experiences enriched in thousands of years. After orally taken, TCM can interplay with gut microbiota. On one hand, TCM can modulate the composition and function of gut microbiota. On the other hand, gut microbiota can transform TCM compounds. The gut microbiota metabolites produced during the actions of these interplays exert noticeable pharmacological effects on the host especially gut barrier. Recently, a large number of studies have investigated the repairing and fortifying effects of TCM on gut barriers from the perspective of gut microbiota and its metabolites. However, no review has summarized the mechanism behand this beneficiary effects of TCM. In this review, we first briefly introduce the unique structure and specific function of gut barrier. Then, we summarize the interactions and relationship amidst gut microbiota, gut microbiota metabolites and TCM. Further, we summarize the regulative effects and mechanisms of TCM on gut barrier including physical barrier, chemical barrier, immunological barrier, and microbial barrier. At last, we discuss the effects of TCM on diseases that are associated gut barrier destruction such as ulcerative colitis and type 2 diabetes. Our review can provide insights into TCM, gut barrier and gut microbiota.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaochuan Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy and School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Dandan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy and School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Hao Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy and School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Jinlu Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy and School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Juan Liu
- TCM Regulating Metabolic Diseases Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Wuwen Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy and School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Standardization of Chinese Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Cheng Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy and School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Standardization of Chinese Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
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Yakubovich E, Cook DP, Rodriguez GM, Vanderhyden BC. Mesenchymal ovarian cancer cells promote CD8 + T cell exhaustion through the LGALS3-LAG3 axis. NPJ Syst Biol Appl 2023; 9:61. [PMID: 38086828 PMCID: PMC10716312 DOI: 10.1038/s41540-023-00322-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer cells often metastasize by undergoing an epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Although abundance of CD8+ T-cells in the tumor microenvironment correlates with improved survival, mesenchymal cancer cells acquire greater resistance to antitumor immunity in some cancers. We hypothesized the EMT modulates the immune response to ovarian cancer. Here we show that cancer cells from infiltrated/inflamed tumors possess more mesenchymal cells, than excluded and desert tumors. We also noted high expression of LGALS3 is associated with EMT in vivo, a finding validated with in vitro EMT models. Dissecting the cellular communications among populations in the tumor revealed that mesenchymal cancer cells in infiltrated tumors communicate through LGALS3 to LAG3 receptor expressed by CD8+ T cells. We found CD8+ T cells express high levels of LAG3, a marker of T cell exhaustion. The results indicate that EMT in ovarian cancer cells promotes interactions between cancer cells and T cells through the LGALS3 - LAG3 axis, which could increase T cell exhaustion in infiltrated tumors, dampening antitumor immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward Yakubovich
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
- Cancer Therapeutics Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
- Center for Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
| | - David P Cook
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Cancer Therapeutics Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Galaxia M Rodriguez
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Cancer Therapeutics Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Center for Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Barbara C Vanderhyden
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Cancer Therapeutics Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Center for Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
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Wang J, Lu Y, Zhang C, Tian S, Xiang H, Ding P, Chen J, Ji G, Wu T. Qinggan Huoxue Recipe attenuates Alcoholic Liver Disease by suppressing PI3K/AKT signaling pathway based on network pharmacology. Int J Med Sci 2023; 20:346-358. [PMID: 36860681 PMCID: PMC9969510 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.80329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Qinggan Huoxue Recipe (QGHXR) is originated from Xiao Chaihu Decotion. Many experimental studies have confirmed that QGHXR can significantly alleviate the symptoms of alcoholic liver disease (ALD), but the detailed mechanism is still unclear. Using traditional Chinese medicine network pharmacology analysis system database and animal experiments, we found that 180 potentially chemical compositions and 618 potential targets were screened from the prescription, which shared 133 signal pathways with ALD. Through animal experiments, it was found that QGHXR could reduce the liver total cholesterol (TC), serum TC, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase of ALD mice, reduce the lipid droplets and inflammatory injury of liver tissue. Meanwhile, it can also increase PTEN, decrease PI3K and AKT mRNA levels. In this study, we obtained the targets and pathways of QGHXR in the treatment of ALD, and preliminatively verified that QGHXR may improve ALD through PTEN/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junmin Wang
- Minhang Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 201199, China.,Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Yifei Lu
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Caiyun Zhang
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Shuxia Tian
- Minhang Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 201199, China
| | - Hongjiao Xiang
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Peilun Ding
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Junming Chen
- Minhang Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 201199, China
| | - Guang Ji
- Institute of Digestive Disease, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Tao Wu
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
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Ganguly R, Gupta A, Pandey AK. Role of baicalin as a potential therapeutic agent in hepatobiliary and gastrointestinal disorders: A review. World J Gastroenterol 2022; 28:3047-3062. [PMID: 36051349 PMCID: PMC9331529 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v28.i26.3047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Baicalin is a natural bioactive compound derived from Scutellaria baicalensis, which is extensively used in traditional Chinese medicine. A literature survey demonstrated the broad spectrum of health benefits of baicalin such as antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, cardio-protective, hepatoprotective, renal protective, and neuroprotective properties. Baicalin is hydrolyzed to its metabolite baicalein by the action of gut microbiota, which is further reconverted to baicalin via phase 2 metabolism in the liver. Many studies have suggested that baicalin exhibits therapeutic potential against several types of hepatic disorders including hepatic fibrosis, xenobiotic-induced liver injury, fatty liver disease, viral hepatitis, cholestasis, ulcerative colitis, hepatocellular and colorectal cancer. During in vitro and in vivo examinations, it has been observed that baicalin showed a protective role against liver and gut-associated abnormalities by modifying several signaling pathways such as nuclear factor-kappa B, transforming growth factor beta 1/SMAD3, sirtuin 1, p38/mitogen-activated protein kinase/Janus kinase, and calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase kinaseβ/adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase/acetyl-coenzyme A carboxylase pathways. Furthermore, baicalin also regulates the expression of fibrotic genes such as smooth muscle actin, connective tissue growth factor, β-catenin, and inflammatory cytokines such as interferon gamma, interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and IL-1β, and attenuates the production of apoptotic proteins such as caspase-3, caspase-9 and B-cell lymphoma 2. However, due to its low solubility and poor bioavailability, widespread therapeutic applications of baicalin still remain a challenge. This review summarized the hepatic and gastrointestinal protective attributes of baicalin with an emphasis on the molecular mechanisms that regulate the interaction of baicalin with the gut microbiota.
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Affiliation(s)
- Risha Ganguly
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Allahabad, Allahabad (Prayagraj) 211002, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Ashutosh Gupta
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Allahabad, Allahabad (Prayagraj) 211002, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Abhay K Pandey
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Allahabad, Allahabad (Prayagraj) 211002, Uttar Pradesh, India
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Zhang S, Zhong R, Tang S, Han H, Chen L, Zhang H. Baicalin Alleviates Short-Term Lincomycin-Induced Intestinal and Liver Injury and Inflammation in Infant Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23116072. [PMID: 35682750 PMCID: PMC9181170 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23116072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Revised: 05/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The adverse effects of short-term megadose of antibiotics exposure on the gastrointestinal and liver tissue reactions in young children have been reported. Antibiotic-induced intestinal and liver reactions are usually unpredictable and present a poorly understood pathogenesis. It is, therefore, necessary to develop strategies for reducing the adverse effects of antibiotics. Studies on the harm and rescue measures of antibiotics from the perspective of the gut–liver system are lacking. Here, we demonstrate that lincomycin exposure reduced body weight, disrupted the composition of gut microbiota and intestinal morphology, triggered immune-mediated injury and inflammation, caused liver dysfunction, and affected lipid metabolism. However, baicalin administration attenuated the lincomycin-induced changes. Transcriptome analysis showed that baicalin improved immunity in mice, as evidenced by the decreased levels of intestinal inflammatory cytokines and expression of genes that regulate Th1, Th2, and Th17 cell differentiation, and inhibited mucin type O-glycan biosynthesis pathways. In addition, baicalin improved liver function by upregulating the expression of genes involved in bile acid secretion and lipid degradation, and downregulating genes involved in lipid synthesis in lincomycin-treated mice. Bile acids can regulate intestinal immunity and strengthen hepatoenteric circulation. In addition, baicalin also improved anti-inflammatory bacteria abundance (Blautia and Coprobacillus) and reduced pathogenic bacteria abundance (Proteobacteria, Klebsiella, and Citrobacter) in lincomycin-treated mice. Thus, baicalin can ameliorate antibiotic-induced injury and its associated complications such as liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Liang Chen
- Correspondence: (L.C.); (H.Z.); Tel.: +86-10-6281-8910 (L.C.); Fax: +86-10-6281-6013 (H.Z.)
| | - Hongfu Zhang
- Correspondence: (L.C.); (H.Z.); Tel.: +86-10-6281-8910 (L.C.); Fax: +86-10-6281-6013 (H.Z.)
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Wang J, Ge S, Wang Y, Liu Y, Qiu L, Li J, Huang X, Sun L. Puerarin Alleviates UUO-Induced Inflammation and Fibrosis by Regulating the NF-κB P65/STAT3 and TGFβ1/Smads Signaling Pathways. DRUG DESIGN DEVELOPMENT AND THERAPY 2021; 15:3697-3708. [PMID: 34465981 PMCID: PMC8402986 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s321879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Purpose Puerarin (PR), a Chinese medicine rich in natural components, has been reported to display anti-fibrotic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties. However, the protective mechanism of PR against unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO)-mediated renal injury is not fully clarified. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of PR on UUO mice and its possible mechanisms. Methods A total of 32 C57BL/6 mice were divided randomly into four groups (n=8): i) sham-operated group (Sham); ii) UUO group (UUO); iii) UUO + PR 50 mg/kg/day (UUO + PRL); and iv) UUO + PR 100 mg/kg/day (UUO + PRH). Continuous gavage administration for 14 days starting one week postoperatively, while the mice in Sham and UUO groups were given equal amounts of vehicle by the same means. All mice were then sacrificed and serum, 24-hour urine and tissue specimens were collected for renal function, histopathology, Western blot, immunohistochemistry. Results Renal function and histopathology revealed that PR improved UUO-mediated renal dysfunction and partially reversed tubular injury and tubulointerstitial fibrosis. Additionally, according to the results of Western blot and immunohistochemistry, PR inhibited the expression of inflammatory factors including IL-1β, IL-6, MCP-1 and ECM-related proteins including α-SMA, COL I and VIM. More importantly, the expression of fibrotic pathways TGF-β1, Smad3, p-Smad3 and inflammatory pathways NF-κB p65, NF-κB p-p65, STAT3, p-STAT3 were inhibited to various extents under the PR treatment, while Smad7 was upregulated. Conclusion These findings indicate that PR may inhibit the recruitment of inflammatory factors and extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition through the regulation of the NF-κB p65/STAT3 and TGFβ1/Smads pathways, which alleviates the UUO-induced inflammatory and fibrotic response, thereby reversing renal injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingyu Wang
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110000, Liaoning Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuke Ge
- Department of Emergency management, Liaoning Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shenyang, 110000, Liaoning Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Yaqing Wang
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110000, Liaoning Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, 637000, Sichuan Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Lihua Qiu
- Department of epigenetics, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110000, Liaoning Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Junying Li
- Department of epigenetics, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110000, Liaoning Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin Huang
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110000, Liaoning Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Sun
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110000, Liaoning Province, People's Republic of China
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Yang JY, Li M, Zhang CL, Liu D. Pharmacological properties of baicalin on liver diseases: a narrative review. Pharmacol Rep 2021; 73:1230-1239. [PMID: 33595821 PMCID: PMC8460515 DOI: 10.1007/s43440-021-00227-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Baicalin is the main active component of Scutellaria baicalensis, widely used in traditional Chinese medicine thanks to its various pharmacological effects, such as anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties, as well as cardiovascular, hepatic, and renal protective effect. Recently, the protective effects of baicalin on liver disease have received much more attention. Several studies showed that baicalin protects against several types of liver diseases including viral hepatitis, fatty liver disease, xenobiotic induced liver injury, cholestatic liver injury, and hepatocellular carcinoma, with a variety of pharmacological mechanisms. A comprehensive understanding of the mechanism of baicalin can provide a valuable reference for its clinical use, but up to now, no narrative review is available that summarizes the pharmacological effects of baicalin to clarify its potential use in the treatment of liver diseases. Therefore, this review summarizes the progress of baicalin research and the underlying mechanism in the treatment of various liver diseases, to promote further research and its clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Yu Yang
- Department of Pharmacy, Tongji Hospital Affiliated Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang avenue, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Min Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Tongji Hospital Affiliated Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang avenue, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Cheng-Liang Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Tongji Hospital Affiliated Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang avenue, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China.
| | - Dong Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Tongji Hospital Affiliated Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang avenue, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China.
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Li Y, Li ZX, Xie CY, Fan J, Lv J, Xu XJ, Lv J, Kuai WT, Jia YT. Gegen Qinlian decoction enhances immunity and protects intestinal barrier function in colorectal cancer patients via gut microbiota. World J Gastroenterol 2020; 26:7633-7651. [PMID: 33505141 PMCID: PMC7789057 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v26.i48.7633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 10/31/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND We previously showed, using the Traditional Chinese Medicine System Pharmacology Database, that Gegen Qinlian decoction (GQD) had a direct antitumor effect, and was combined with programmed cell death protein (PD)-1 inhibitors to treat microsatellite stable (MSS) tumor-bearing mice. However, the effect of GQD on patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) is not clear.
AIM To determine the therapeutic mechanism of GQD in improving immune function, reducing inflammation and protecting intestinal barrier function.
METHODS Seventy patients with CRC were included in this study: 37 in the control group and 33 in the treatment group. The proportions of CD4+ T, CD8+ T, natural killer (NK), NKT and T regulatory cells were measured by flow cytometry. Levels of the cytokines tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interferon (IFN)-γ, interleukin (IL)-2, IL-6, IL-10 and serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine; 5-HT) in serum were assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The expression of zonula occludens (ZO)-1, occludin, nuclear factor (NF)-κB and TNF-α in tumor and normal tissues was measured by immunohistochemistry. The composition of gut microbiota from patients in the treatment group was assessed using 16S rDNA analysis.
RESULTS There were no adverse events in the treatment group. The proportion of CD4+ T cells and NKT cells in the post-treatment group was significantly higher than that in the pre-treatment and control groups (P < 0.05). The level of TNF-α in the post-treatment group was significantly lower than that in the pre-treatment and control groups (P < 0.05). The concentration of 5-HT in the post-treatment group was significantly lower than that in the pre-treatment group (P < 0.05). The expression of ZO-1 and occludin in tumor tissues in the treatment group was significantly higher than that in the control group (P < 0.05). The expression of ZO-1 in normal tissues of the treatment group was significantly higher than that in the control group (P = 0.010). Compared with the control group, expression of NF-κB and TNF-α in tumor tissues of the treatment group was significantly decreased (P < 0.05). Compared with the pre-treatment group, GQD decreased the relative abundance of Megamonas and Veillonella. In addition, GQD increased the relative abundance of Bacteroides, Akkermansia and Prevotella.
CONCLUSION GQD enhances immunity and protects intestinal barrier function in patients with CRC by regulating the composition of gut microbiota.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Li
- Department of Oncology, Hebei General Hospital, Shijiazhuang 050051, Hebei Province, China
- Department of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, Baoding 071000, Hebei Province, China
| | - Zhong-Xin Li
- Second Department of Surgery, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050000, Hebei Province, China
| | - Chen-Yang Xie
- Second Department of Surgery, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050000, Hebei Province, China
| | - Jing Fan
- Department of Oncology, Hebei General Hospital, Shijiazhuang 050051, Hebei Province, China
| | - Ji Lv
- Department of Surgery, The First Hospital of Qinhuangdao, Qinhuangdao 066000, Hebei Province, China
| | - Xin-Jian Xu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050000, Hebei Province, China
| | - Jian Lv
- Department of Emergency, Hebei General Hospital, Shijiazhuang 050051, Hebei Province, China
| | - Wen-Tao Kuai
- Department of Oncology, Hebei General Hospital, Shijiazhuang 050051, Hebei Province, China
| | - Yi-Tao Jia
- Department of Oncology, Hebei General Hospital, Shijiazhuang 050051, Hebei Province, China
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Di Gregorio J, Robuffo I, Spalletta S, Giambuzzi G, De Iuliis V, Toniato E, Martinotti S, Conti P, Flati V. The Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition as a Possible Therapeutic Target in Fibrotic Disorders. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:607483. [PMID: 33409282 PMCID: PMC7779530 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.607483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis is a chronic and progressive disorder characterized by excessive deposition of extracellular matrix, which leads to scarring and loss of function of the affected organ or tissue. Indeed, the fibrotic process affects a variety of organs and tissues, with specific molecular background. However, two common hallmarks are shared: the crucial role of the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) and the involvement of the inflammation process, that is essential for initiating the fibrotic degeneration. TGF-β in particular but also other cytokines regulate the most common molecular mechanism at the basis of fibrosis, the Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT). EMT has been extensively studied, but not yet fully explored as a possible therapeutic target for fibrosis. A deeper understanding of the crosstalk between fibrosis and EMT may represent an opportunity for the development of a broadly effective anti-fibrotic therapy. Here we report the evidences of the relationship between EMT and multi-organ fibrosis, and the possible therapeutic approaches that may be developed by exploiting this relationship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacopo Di Gregorio
- Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, United States
| | - Iole Robuffo
- Institute of Molecular Genetics, National Research Council, Section of Chieti, Chieti, Italy
| | - Sonia Spalletta
- Department of Clinical Pathology, E. Profili Hospital, Fabriano, Ancona, Italy
| | - Giulia Giambuzzi
- Department of Medical and Oral Sciences and Biotechnologies, University "G. d'Annunzio", Chieti, Italy
| | - Vincenzo De Iuliis
- Department of Medical and Oral Sciences and Biotechnologies, University "G. d'Annunzio", Chieti, Italy
| | - Elena Toniato
- Department of Medical and Oral Sciences and Biotechnologies, University "G. d'Annunzio", Chieti, Italy
| | - Stefano Martinotti
- Department of Medical and Oral Sciences and Biotechnologies, University "G. d'Annunzio", Chieti, Italy
| | - Pio Conti
- Postgraduate Medical School, University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Flati
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
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10
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Qiu J, Wang Y, Guo W, Xu L, Mou Y, Cui L, Han F, Sun Y. Role of TGF-β1-mediated epithelial-mesenchymal transition in the pathogenesis of tympanosclerosis. Exp Ther Med 2020; 21:6. [PMID: 33235615 PMCID: PMC7678609 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2020.9438] [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: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The present study aimed to explore the role of TGF-β1-mediated epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in the pathogenesis of tympanosclerosis. Sprague Dawley rats were injected with inactivated Streptococcus pneumoniae suspension to establish a rat model of tympanosclerosis. The rats were sacrificed 8 weeks after the model was established. H&E and von Kossa staining was used to observe the morphological changes of middle ear mucosa. Western blotting was used to detect the expression of TGF-β1 and EMT-associated proteins in the mucosa samples. Middle ear mucosal epithelial cells of rats were collected to establish a primary culture. The cultured cells were stimulated with TGF-β1 and the expression of EMT-associated proteins was detected by western blotting and immunofluorescence. In addition, the cells were treated with TGF-β receptor type I/II inhibitor and the expression level of EMT-associated proteins was detected by western blotting. Sclerotic lesions appeared on 72.4% of tympanic membranes, and marked inflammation, inflammatory cell infiltration and fibrosis were found in the middle ear mucosa of rat models of tympanosclerosis. In middle ear mucosa of rats with tympanosclerosis, the expression of mesenchymal cell markers increased and that of epithelial cell markers decreased compared with the control group. TGF-β1 stimulated the activation of the EMT pathway in middle ear mucosal epithelial cells, resulting in an increased expression of fibronectin and N-cadherin. In addition, a decreased expression level of EMT-associated proteins was observed when TGF-β1 was inhibited. In conclusion, the present study indicated that TGF-β1-mediated EMT may play an important role in the pathogenesis of tympanosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Qiu
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong 264000, P.R. China
| | - Yanmei Wang
- Department of Blood Purification, The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong 264000, P.R. China
| | - Wentao Guo
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong 264000, P.R. China
| | - Ling Xu
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong 264000, P.R. China
| | - Yakui Mou
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong 264000, P.R. China
| | - Limei Cui
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong 264000, P.R. China
| | - Fengchan Han
- Key Laboratory for Genetic Hearing Disorders in Shandong, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, Shandong 264003, P.R. China
| | - Yan Sun
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong 264000, P.R. China
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11
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Hassan M, Aboushousha T, El-Ahwany E, Khalil HK, Montasser AY, Abu-Taleb H, El-Talkawy MD, Zoheiry M. Impact of E-cadherin and its transcription regulators on assessing epithelial-mesenchymal transition in chronic hepatitis C virus infection. Minerva Gastroenterol (Torino) 2020; 67:175-182. [PMID: 32677416 DOI: 10.23736/s2724-5985.20.02687-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The mechanisms of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV)-induced liver fibrosis and hepatocarcinogenesis are still poorly recognized. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the effect of chronic HCV infection on the expression of the major regulators of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) including E-cadherin, Snail, Slug, and Twist2, in the Egyptian population. This will help to design more efficient strategies to treat HCV-associated cirrhosis and carcinoma. METHODS Fifty-nine liver biopsies from patients, that were serologically proven to be HCV positive, were included in the current study. Histopathological examination was done. Grading of hepatitis activity (A) and staging of fibrosis (F) were assessed using the METAVIR Scoring System. Additionally, an immunohistochemical examination of E-cadherin, Snail, Slug, and Twist2 expression was performed. RESULTS E-cadherin showed a significant progressive decline of its expression with increased fibrosis staging and development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In contrast, Snail and Slug expression was positively associated with the stage of fibrosis and HCC. Meanwhile, Twist2 expression was not affected by the degree of hepatitis activity, the stage of fibrosis, or by the development of HCC. CONCLUSIONS E-cadherin and its transcriptional regulators; Snail and Slug may serve as indicators for assessing the stage of fibrosis and the progression of HCC associated with HCV infection but not for assessing the degree of hepatitis activity. Therefore, the Snail family could be a promising target for designing effective preventive and therapeutic strategies for chronic HCV infection and its serious comorbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marwa Hassan
- Department of Immunology, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Giza, Egypt -
| | - Tarek Aboushousha
- Department of Pathology, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Giza, Egypt
| | - Eman El-Ahwany
- Department of Immunology, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Giza, Egypt
| | - Heba K Khalil
- Department of Pathology, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Giza, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Y Montasser
- Department of Pathology, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Giza, Egypt
| | - Hoda Abu-Taleb
- Department of Environmental Research, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Giza, Egypt
| | - Mohamed D El-Talkawy
- Department of Hepato-Gastroenterology, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Giza, Egypt
| | - Mona Zoheiry
- Department of Immunology, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Giza, Egypt
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12
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Tsai FJ, Yang PY, Chen CJ, Li JP, Li TM, Chiou JS, Cheng CF, Chuang PH, Lin TH, Liao CC, Huang SM, Ban B, Liang WM, Lin YJ. Decreased overall mortality rate with Chinese herbal medicine usage in patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis in Taiwan. BMC Complement Med Ther 2020; 20:221. [PMID: 32664975 PMCID: PMC7362535 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-020-03010-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2019] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Liver cirrhosis is one of the main causes of the morbidity and mortality in liver diseases. Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) has long been used for the clinical treatment of liver diseases. This study was designed to explore the usage frequency and prescription patterns of CHM for patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis and to evaluate the long-term effects of CHM on overall mortality. Methods Two thousand four hundred sixty-seven patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis (ICD-9-CM code: 571.2, 571.5, and 571.6) diagnosed between 2000 and 2009 in Taiwan were identified from the registry for catastrophic illness patients. Of these, 149 CHM users and 298 CHM non-users were matched for age, gender, and Charlson comorbidity index score. The chi-squared test, paired Student’s t-test, Cox proportional hazard model, and Kaplan–Meier method were applied for various comparisons between these groups of patients. Results CHM-treated patients showed a lower overall mortality risk compared with non-treated patients (Multivariable: p < 0.0001; HR: 0.54, 95% CI: 0.42–0.69). The cumulative incidence of overall mortality was lower in the CHM-treated group (stratified log-rank test, p = 0.0002). The strongest CHM co-prescription pattern- Yin-Chen-Hao-Tang (YCHT) → Long-Dan-Xie-Gan-Tang (LDXGT) had the highest support, followed by Zhi-Zi (ZZ) → Yin-Chen-Wu-Ling-San (YCWLS) and Bai-Hua-She-She-Cao (BHSSC) → Da-Huang (DaH). Conclusion CHM, as adjunct therapy, might decrease the risk of overall mortality in patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis. CHM co-prescription patterns and network analysis showed that comprehensive herbal medicines have a protective role against liver fibrosis. Further studies are required to enhance the knowledge of safety and efficacy of CHM in patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fuu-Jen Tsai
- School of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, No. 91, Hsueh-Shih Road, Taichung, Taiwan.,Genetic Center, Proteomics Core Laboratory, Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.,Asia University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Yuu Yang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chao-Jung Chen
- Genetic Center, Proteomics Core Laboratory, Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.,Graduate Institute of Integrated Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Ju-Pi Li
- School of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, No. 91, Hsueh-Shih Road, Taichung, Taiwan.,Rheumatism Research Center, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Te-Mao Li
- School of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, No. 91, Hsueh-Shih Road, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Jian-Shiun Chiou
- Graduate Institute of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, China Medical University, No. 91, Hsueh-Shih Road, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Fung Cheng
- Genetic Center, Proteomics Core Laboratory, Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.,Graduate Institute of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, China Medical University, No. 91, Hsueh-Shih Road, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Po-Heng Chuang
- Division of Hepato-gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Ting-Hsu Lin
- Genetic Center, Proteomics Core Laboratory, Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chiu-Chu Liao
- Genetic Center, Proteomics Core Laboratory, Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Shao-Mei Huang
- Genetic Center, Proteomics Core Laboratory, Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Bo Ban
- Chinese Research Center for Behavior Medicine in Growth and Development, 89 Guhuai Road, Jining, Shandong, China
| | - Wen-Miin Liang
- Graduate Institute of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, China Medical University, No. 91, Hsueh-Shih Road, Taichung, Taiwan.
| | - Ying-Ju Lin
- School of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, No. 91, Hsueh-Shih Road, Taichung, Taiwan. .,Genetic Center, Proteomics Core Laboratory, Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.
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13
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In vitro and in vivo activities of flavonoids – apigenin, baicalin, chrysin, scutellarin – in regulation of hypertension – a review for their possible effects in pregnancy-induced hypertension. HERBA POLONICA 2019. [DOI: 10.2478/hepo-2019-0001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Summary
Flavonoids and their conjugates are the most important group of natural chemical compounds in drug discovery and development. The search for pharmacological activity and new mechanisms of activity of these chemical compounds, which may inhibit mediators of inflammation and influence the structure and function of endothelial cells, can be an interesting pharmacological strategy for the prevention and adjunctive treatments of hypertension, especially induced by pregnancy. Because cardiovascular diseases have multi-factorial pathogenesis these natural chemical compounds with wide spectrum of biological activities are the most interesting source of new drugs. Extracts from one of the most popular plant used in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi could be a very interesting source of flavonoids because of its exact content in quercetin, apigenin, chrysin and scutellarin as well as in baicalin. These flavonoids exert vasoprotective properties and many activities such as: anti-oxidative via several pathways, anti-in-flammatory, anti-ischaemic, cardioprotective and anti-hypertensive. However, there is lack of summaries of results of studies in context of potential and future application of flavonoids with determined composition and activity. Our review aims to provide a literature survey of in vitro, in vivo and ex vivo pharmacological studies of selected flavonoids (apigenin, chrysin and scutellarin, baicalin) in various models of hypertension carried out in 2008–2018.
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Li X, Zhang H, Pan L, Zou H, Miao X, Cheng J, Wu Y. Puerarin alleviates liver fibrosis via inhibition of the ERK1/2 signaling pathway in thioacetamide-induced hepatic fibrosis in rats. Exp Ther Med 2019; 18:133-138. [PMID: 31258646 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2019.7534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2017] [Accepted: 03/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a complex pathological process and an early step in the progression of liver cirrhosis, which can eventually develop into hepatocellular carcinoma. Currently, there is no effective treatment for liver fibrosis. Puerarin is a traditional Chinese herb, which is commonly used in the treatment of various diseases. In addition, it is also believed to have a therapeutic effect in liver fibrosis. However, whether puerarin reduces liver fibrosis via the ERK1/2 signaling pathway to inhibit the activation of hepatic stellate cell (HSC) and excessive collagen deposition in liver fibrosis remains unknown. The aim of the current study was to establish a liver fibrosis in vivo model by intraperitoneal injection of thioacetamide (TAA) and investigate the effect of puerarin in the treatment of liver fibrosis. Hematoxylin and eosin and Van Gieson's staining were used to examine histopathological changes associated with liver fibrosis. Liver hydroxyproline content was examined to determine the total amount of collagen in the liver. The relative protein expression levels of transforming growth factor β1 (TGFβ1), α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), collagen type I, fibronectin, ERK1/2 and p-ERK1/2 were determined by western blot analysis. In the TAA group, histopathological changes and collagen fiber content in rat liver tissue samples were significantly increased compared with the control group (P<0.05). In addition, treatment with puerarin significantly decreased histopathological changes and collagen fiber content in rat liver tissue samples (P<0.05). The relative protein expression levels of TGFβ1, α-SMA, collagen type I, fibronectin and p-ERK1/2 were significantly upregulated in the TAA group compared with the control group (P<0.05), whereas puerarin treatment reversed these changes. These findings suggest that treatment with puerarin may reduce HSC activation and alleviate extracellular matrix protein expression levels by inhibiting the TGF-β/ERK1/2 pathway in liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuqing Li
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Lianyungang Oriental Hospital, Lianyungang, Jiangsu 222042, P.R. China
| | - Hui Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The Second Hospital of Lianyungang, Lianyungang, Jiangsu 222023, P.R. China
| | - Lijuan Pan
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Lianyungang Oriental Hospital, Lianyungang, Jiangsu 222042, P.R. China
| | - Haiou Zou
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Lianyungang Oriental Hospital, Lianyungang, Jiangsu 222042, P.R. China
| | - Xiaonan Miao
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Lianyungang Oriental Hospital, Lianyungang, Jiangsu 222042, P.R. China
| | - Jing Cheng
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Lianyungang Oriental Hospital, Lianyungang, Jiangsu 222042, P.R. China
| | - Youshan Wu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Lianyungang Oriental Hospital, Lianyungang, Jiangsu 222042, P.R. China
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