Antiviral activities of atractylon from Atractylodis Rhizoma

Vilsmeier-Haack-Initiated Formylative Rearrangement of Spirodioxo-lan-5-ones into Functionalized 4,5,6,7-Tetrahydrobenzofurans

Pharmaceutically relevant bicyclic furans can be synthesized in a single step from substituted dioxolan-5-ones by reacting with Vilsmeier-Haack reagents. These reagents are generated from POCl3 or PBr3 and DMF. The reaction cascade is mechanistically complex and involves deoxyhalogenation, iminomethylation, and electrophilic rearrangement steps, which are facilitated by the DMF solvent. The synthesis of hard-to-access 4,5,6,7-tetrahydrobenzofurans and substituted aliphatic furans is particularly useful. These compounds are potential isosteres of 2,3-dihydrobenzofuran pharmacophores and could be of interest for drug discovery.

Atractylenolide I Suppresses A1 Astrocyte Activation to Improve Depression in Mice

This work aimed to investigate the role of atractylenolide I (ATR) in resisting depression and its mechanism of action. The mouse model of depression was constructed through chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) method. After ATR intervention, changes in the depression-related behaviors of mice were detected through open field test and elevated plus maze. In addition, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was conducted to detect inflammatory factor levels. Real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) was performed to measure the mRNA levels of A1/A2 astrocyte markers. Furthermore, primary astrocytes were induced in vitro, and the A1 differentiation level was detected by ELISA and RT-qPCR assays. ATR improved the behaviors of CUMS mice and alleviated the depression symptoms. Moreover, it reduced tissue inflammation, inhibited the A1 differentiation of astrocytes, and decreased the mRNA levels of A1 markers. After NLRP3 knockout, the effects of ATR were suppressed. Similarly, in vitro experimental results also revealed that ATR suppressed the A1 differentiation of astrocytes. Based on molecular dynamics and small molecule-protein docking results, ATR mainly targeted NLRP3 and suppressed the NLRP3-mediated A1 differentiation. We discover that ATR can target NLRP3 to suppress A1 differentiation of astrocytes, restrain tissue inflammation, and improve the depression symptoms in mice.

Rapid Quantitative Analysis of 19 Bioactive Components in Fangji Huangqi Decoction Based on UHPLC-MS/MS

Fangji Huangqi Decoction (FHD) is a classic prescription of traditional Chinese medicine which is recorded in "Jin Gui Yao Lue". The purpose of this study is to develop a method for simultaneous determination multicomponent in FHD. The separation of the 19 compounds that included calycosin, calycosin-7-O-β-D-glucoside, formononetin, ononin, methylnissolin, methylnissolin-3-O-glucoside, isomucronulatol, tetrandrine, fangchinoline, atractylenolide-I, atractylenolide-III, liquiritigenin, liquiritin, isomucronulatol-7-O-β-D-glucoside, astragaloside-I, astragaloside-II, astragaloside-III, astragaloside-IV and glycyrrhetinic acid were achieved by linear gradient elution. The 19 components were identified by comparing the chromatographic peaks with the reference compounds and were quantitatively analyzed by multiple reaction monitoring. This method was strict validated with recovery (96.10-101.70%), precision [relative standard deviation (RSD), 1.34-3.34%], stability (RSD, 1.49-3.80%) and repeatability (RSD, 1.60-3.49%), respectively. All the compounds showed good linearities (R2 > 0.999). The limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantitation (LOQ) for the 19 compounds were in the range of 0.03-0.27 μg/mL (LODs) and 0.05-1.23 μg/mL (LOQs). The correlation analysis indicated that astragalus flavonoids were negatively correlated with astragalosides, tetrandrine and their corresponding flavonoid glycosides, and atractylenolides were positively correlated with astragalosides and fangchinoline. This method proved to be reliable and effective, which would give a helpful basis for the quality control, pharmacological and pharmacokinetic of FHD.

Efficacy, Safety and Economic Evaluation of Wolbigachul-Tang for Chronic Cough Due to Upper Airway Cough Syndrome (UACS): A Study Protocol for Randomized, Double-Blind, Active-Comparator Controlled, Parallel, Exploratory Clinical Trial

Upper airway cough syndrome (UACS) is a common cause of chronic cough characterized by upper airway symptoms, including nasal discharge and throat discomfort. Empirical treatments for UASC-induced chronic cough, such as first-generation antihistamines, have been used; however, the long-term use of these medicines has adverse effects. Therefore, we evaluate the efficacy, safety, and economic feasibility of Wolbigachul-tang (WBGCT), an herbal medication for UASC-induced chronic cough. This is a randomized, double-blind, active-comparator-controlled, parallel, and exploratory clinical trial. Thirty patients with UASC-induced chronic cough will be recruited and randomly allocated to the WBGCT and control groups in a 1:1 allocation ratio. The investigational medicine will be administered three times per day for 2 weeks (3 g of WBGCT at a time). The primary outcome measure is the cough symptom score measured at screening, before starting the trial, and after 2 and 4 weeks. Secondary outcome measures include the cough visual analog scale, nasal discharge score, questionnaire of clinical symptoms of cough and sputum, Leicester cough questionnaire-Korean version, integrative medicine outcome scale, integrative medicine patient satisfaction scale, and 5-level EuroQol 5-dimensional questionnaire, which will be assessed before starting the trial and after 2 and 4 weeks. This study aims to investigate the efficacy, safety, and economic feasibility of WBGCT in the treatment of chronic cough. Therefore, the results of this trial provide evidence for the application of WBGCT in the treatment of UACS-induced chronic cough.

Fu-Zheng-Xuan-Fei formula promotes macrophage polarization and Th17/Treg cell homeostasis against the influenza B virus (Victoria strain) infection

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Fu-Zheng-Xuan-Fei formula (FF) is a prescription that has been clinically used through the basic theory of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for treating viral pneumonia. Although FF possesses a prominent clinical therapeutic effect, seldom pharmacological studies have been reported on its anti-influenza B virus (IBV) activity.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Influenza is an acute infectious respiratory disease caused by the influenza virus, which has high annual morbidity and mortality worldwide. With a global decline in the COVID-19 control, the infection rate of influenza virus is gradually increasing. Therefore, it is of great importance to develop novel drugs for the effective treatment of influenza virus. Apart from conventional antiviral drugs, TCM has been widely used in the clinical treatment of influenza in China. Therefore, studying the antiviral mechanism of TCM can facilitate the scientific development of TCM.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Madin-Darby canine kidney cells (MDCK) and BALB/c mice were infected with IBV, and FF was added to evaluate the anti-IBV effects of FF both in vitro and in vivo by Western blotting, immunofluorescence, flow cytometry, and pathological assessment.

RESULTS

It was found that FF exhibited anti-viral activity against IBV infection both in vivo and in vitro, while inducing macrophage activation and promoting M1 macrophage polarization. In addition, FF effectively regulated the signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) signaling pathway-mediated Th17/Treg balance to improve the lung tissue damage caused by IBV infection-induced inflammation. The findings provided the scientific basis for the antiviral mechanism of FF against IBV infection.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows that FF is a potentially effective antiviral drug against IBV infection.

Specialized metabolites from plants as a source of new multi-target antiviral drugs: a systematic review

Viral infections have always been the main global health challenge, as several potentially lethal viruses, including the hepatitis virus, herpes virus, and influenza virus, have affected human health for decades. Unfortunately, most licensed antiviral drugs are characterized by many adverse reactions and, in the long-term therapy, also develop viral resistance; for these reasons, researchers have focused their attention on investigating potential antiviral molecules from plants. Natural resources indeed offer a variety of specialized therapeutic metabolites that have been demonstrated to inhibit viral entry into the host cells and replication through the regulation of viral absorption, cell receptor binding, and competition for the activation of intracellular signaling pathways. Many active phytochemicals, including flavonoids, lignans, terpenoids, coumarins, saponins, alkaloids, etc., have been identified as potential candidates for preventing and treating viral infections. Using a systematic approach, this review summarises the knowledge obtained to date on the in vivo antiviral activity of specialized metabolites extracted from plant matrices by focusing on their mechanism of action.

Geographic Differentiation of Essential Oil from Rhizome of Cultivated Atractylodes lancea by Using GC-MS and Chemical Pattern Recognition Analysis

The rhizome of Atractylodes lancea (RAL) is a well-known Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) that has been applied in clinical settings for thousands of years. In the past two decades, cultivated RAL has gradually replaced wild RAL and become mainstream in clinical practice. The quality of CHM is significantly influenced by its geographical origin. To date, limited studies have compared the composition of cultivated RAL from different geographical origins. As essential oil is the primary active component of RAL, a strategy combining gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and chemical pattern recognition was first applied to compare the essential oil of RAL (RALO) from different regions in China. Total ion chromatography (TIC) revealed that RALO from different origins had a similar composition; however, the relative content of the main compounds varied significantly. In addition, 26 samples obtained from various regions were divided into three categories by hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) and principal component analysis (PCA). Combined with the geographical location and chemical composition analysis, the producing regions of RAL were classified into three areas. The main compounds of RALO vary depending on the production areas. Furthermore, a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed that there were significant differences in six compounds, including modephene, caryophyllene, γ-elemene, atractylon, hinesol, and atractylodin, between the three areas. Hinesol, atractylon, and β-eudesmol were selected as the potential markers for distinguishing different areas by orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA). In conclusion, by combining GC-MS with chemical pattern recognition analysis, this research has identified the chemical variations across various producing areas and developed an effective method for geographic origin tracking of cultivated RAL based on essential oils.

Mechanistic elucidations of sesquiterpenes ameliorating viral infections: A review

Sesquiterpenes are important in human health because they can treat viral infection, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. Sesquiterpenes have also been shown to increase the sensitivity of tumor cells to conventional pharmacological therapies, in addition to their antiviral effects. The present review article was drafted with an intention to gather information regarding sesquiterpenes and its medicinal importance. The role of sesquiterpenes in the endogenous production of sesquiterpenes by plants and fungi, as well as the mechanisms by which they are effective against viral infection, are discussed in this review. Different online libraries such as PUBMED, Sciencedirect, MEDLINE were assessed to gather information, additionally, books, magzagines, journals, and scientific newspapaers were also studied to make this article more informative. This review examines novel synthesis mechanisms, their cyclization, purification techniques, and the diverse ecological roles sesquiterpenes play in the plant producer, which varies according to the plant and the chemical under consideration. In this article, we have discussed the consequences of sesquiterpenes and their properties for future crop productivity. We have addressed the many forms of sesquiterpenes that have been shown to have antiviral activity in various diseases. The consequences of sesquiterpenes and their properties are very useful for future crop productivity. We have addressed the many forms of sesquiterpenes that have been shown to have antiviral activity in the treatment of various diseases. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Novel synthesis mechanisms, their cyclization, purification techniques, and the diverse ecological roles of sesquiterpenes will be very helfpul in drug development process. Sesquiterpene lactones are shown in this review to have qualities that warrant further scientific investigation in order to stimulate preclinical and clinical trials leading to the creation of novel medications. For antiviral drug development, the sesquiterpenes are a good prospective lead molecule because they can suppress viral replication by disrupting vRNA production and viral protein production.

Network Pharmacology and Experimental Validation to Investigate the Antidepressant Potential of Atractylodes lancea (Thunb.) DC

Atractylodes lancea (Thunb.) DC. (AL) has been indicated in traditional prescriptions for the treatment of depression. However, the mechanism of action of AL in the treatment of depression is still unclear. This study aimed to investigate the antidepressant potential of AL using network pharmacology, molecular docking, and animal experiments. The active components of AL were retrieved from the traditional Chinese medicine systems pharmacology database and analysis platform (TCMSP), and the depression-related targets were screened through the DisGeNET database. Overlapping targets of AL and depression were selected and analyzed. Ten active compounds of AL showed anti-depressant potential, including stigmasterol, 3β-acetoxyatractylone, wogonin, β-sitosterol, selina-4(14),7(11)-dien-8-one, atractylenolide I, atractylenolide II, atractylenolide III, patchoulene, and cyperene. These compounds target 28 potential antidepressant genes/proteins. Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis revealed that the potential targets might directly influence neural cells and regulate neuroinflammation and neurotransmitter-related processes. The potential Kyoto Encyclopedia Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways for the antidepressant effects of AL include neuroactive ligand-receptor interactions, calcium signaling pathways, dopaminergic synapse, interleukin (IL)-17 signaling pathways, and the pathways of neurodegeneration. IL-6, nitric oxide synthase 3 (NOS), solute carrier family 6 member 4 (SLC6A4), estrogen receptor (ESR1), and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) were the most important proteins in the protein-protein interaction network and these proteins showed high binding affinities with the corresponding AL compounds. AL showed an antidepressant effect in mice by decreasing immobility time in the tail suspension test and increasing the total contact number in the social interaction test. This study demonstrated the antidepressant potential of AL, which provides evidence for pursuing further studies to develop a novel antidepressant.

In vitro production of atractylon and β-eudesmol from Atractylodes chinensis by adventitious root culture

Atractylodes chinensis is a medicinal plant widely used for the treatment of gastric disorders, and its main bioactive compounds are atractylon and β-eudesmol. This study was purposed to establish the adventitious root culture system of A. chinensis for in vitro production of atractylon and β-eudesmol. The main parameters in the adventitious root induction and suspension cultures were optimized to maximize the culture efficiency. Adventitious roots were induced most efficiently from leaf explants on Murashige and Skoog (MS) solid medium containing 1.5 mg/L naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) and 30 g/L sucrose with the highest root induction rate of approximately 92% and 12.9 roots per explant. During the adventitious root suspension culture, the root biomass and the accumulated content of the target compounds simultaneously increased to reach the maximum values after 8 weeks of culture. The maximum yield of the target compounds (total concentration 3.38 mg/g DW, total yield 2.66 mg) was achieved in the roots cultured in ½ MS liquid medium supplemented with 2.0 mg/L IBA, 3.2 mg/L NAA, and 40 g/L sucrose with the inoculum density of 8 g/L. Through the central composite design experiment, it was found that the combined use of different types of auxins in the suspension culture could further improve root growth and metabolite accumulation than the application of only one type of auxin. This work provides a new possibility to have a promising candidate for the industrial production of A. chinensis pharmaceuticals without relying on wild resources or field cultivation. KEY POINTS: • The induction culture was optimized for efficient root induction. • Suspension culture was optimized for the atractylon and β-eudesmol production. • Combined use of different auxins improves root growth and metabolite accumulation.

Atractylon inhibits the tumorigenesis of glioblastoma through SIRT3 signaling

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common primary malignant brain tumor. Although there are various treatments for glioblastoma including surgery, radiotherapy, systemic therapy (chemotherapy and targeted therapy) and supportive therapy, the overall prognosis remains poor and the long-term survival rate is very low. Atractylon, a bioactive compound extracted from the Chinese herb Atractylodes lancea (Thunb.) DC. or Atractylodes chinensis (DC.) Koidz., has been reported to induce apoptosis and suppress metastasis in hepatic cancer cells. However, the roles and mechanisms of atractylon in GBM cells remain unknown. In the present study, we aimed to evaluate the effects of atractylon on the anti-tumorigenesis properties of GBM. Firstly, results of CCK8, colony formation, cell proliferation, and flow cytometry assays showed that atractylon inhibited the proliferation of GBM cells by arresting cells at the G1 phase of cell cycle. In addition, atractylon suppressed the migration and induced apoptosis of GBM cells. Mechanistically, atractylon treatment caused a significant up-regulation of sirtuin 3 (SIRT3, a tumor suppressor) mRNA and protein in GBM cells. Furthermore, inhibition of SIRT3 by the selective SIRT3 inhibitor 3-(1H-1,2,3-triazol-4-yl) pyridine (3-TYP) partially restored the anti-proliferation and migration effects of atractylon in GBM cells. Finally, atractylon treatment also inhibited the in vivo growth of GBM cells in xenograft models through SIRT3 activation. Taken together, these results reveal a previously unknown role of atractylon in inhibiting GBM in vitro and in vivo through up-regulating SIRT3, which suggests novel strategies for the treatment of GBM.

Sepsis-associated brain injury: underlying mechanisms and potential therapeutic strategies for acute and long-term cognitive impairments

Sepsis is a life-threatening organ dysfunction caused by a dysregulated host response to infection. Sepsis causes cerebral dysfunction in the short and long term and induces disruption of the blood–brain barrier (BBB), neuroinflammation, hypoperfusion, and accumulation of amyloid β (Aβ) and tau protein in the brain. White matter changes and brain atrophy can be detected using brain imaging, but unfortunately, there is no specific treatment that directly addresses the underlying mechanisms of cognitive impairments in sepsis. Here, we review the underlying mechanisms of sepsis-associated brain injury, with a focus on BBB dysfunction and Aβ and tau protein accumulation in the brain. We also describe the neurological manifestations and imaging findings of sepsis-associated brain injury, and finally, we propose potential therapeutic strategies for acute and long-term cognitive impairments associated with sepsis. In the acute phase of sepsis, we suggest using antibiotics (such as rifampicin), targeting proinflammatory cytokines, and preventing ischemic injuries and hypoperfusion. In the late phase of sepsis, we suggest targeting neuroinflammation, BBB dysfunction, Aβ and tau protein phosphorylation, glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta (GSK3β), and the receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE). These proposed strategies are meant to bring new mechanism-based directions for future basic and clinical research aimed at preventing or ameliorating acute and long-term cognitive impairments in patients with sepsis.

Molecular mechanism of atractylon in the invasion and migration of hepatic cancer cells based on high‑throughput sequencing

The aim of the present study was to investigate the molecular mechanisms of atractylon in the inhibition of invasion and migration of hepatic cancer cells. High‑throughput sequencing was used to compare the expression of long non‑coding (lnc)RNAs between hepatic carcinoma and healthy controls. A competing endogenous RNA network was constructed. The top significantly differentially expressed lncRNAs were screened and verified by reverse transcription‑quantitative PCR in vitro and in vivo. Small interfering (si)RNA against thymopoietin‑antisense 1 (TMPO‑AS1) or coiled‑coil domain‑containing 183‑antisense 1 (CCDC183‑AS1) overexpression (oe) vectors were transfected into cells following atractylon treatment. Wound healing and Matrigel assays were used to determine the effects of migration and invasion, respectively. Western blot analysis was used to detect the expression levels of invasion‑ and migration‑related proteins, including N‑cadherin, E‑cadherin and MMP‑2. Flow cytometry analysis was used to detect apoptosis. Based on transcriptome sequencing and analysis, the top seven upregulated [(FAM201A, RP11‑640M9.2, AL589743.1, TMEM51‑AS1, clathrin heavy chain‑like 1 (CLTCL1), TMPO‑AS1 and LINC00652] and top six downregulated lncRNAs (RP11‑465B22.5, CCDC183‑AS1, TCONS_00072529, RP11‑401F2.3, RP11‑290F20.1 and TCONS_00070568) were identified. Only TMPO‑AS1 and CCDC183‑AS1 were differently regulated by atractylon in vivo. The proliferative ability of HepG2 liver cancer cells decreased, whereas the apoptotic rate improved after atractylon treatment. Notably, the invasive and migratory ability of HepG2 cells significantly declined. In addition, siTMPO‑AS1 and oeCCDC183‑AS1 reduced the effect of atractylon in vitro. Atractylon was demonstrated to regulate the expression of TMPO‑AS1 and CCDC183‑AS1 and inhibited the invasion and migration of liver cancer cells. Thus, TMPO‑AS1 and CCDC183‑AS1 may be potential targets for diagnosis and treatment of hepatic carcinoma.

Gu-Ben-Zhi-Ke-Zhong-Yao Alleviated PM2.5-Induced Lung Injury via HMGB1/NF-κB Axis

Background

Inhalation of particles with a diameter of less than 2.5 μm (PM2.5) among air pollutants may cause lung damage. Gu-Ben-Zhi-Ke-Zhong-Yao (GBZK) is a traditional Chinese medicine prescription that has a beneficial effect on the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, the effect of GBZK on PM2.5-induced lung injury remains to be elucidated.

Methods

We constructed a mice lung injury model through PM2.5 stimulation and simultaneously performed GBZK gavage treatment. After 4 weeks, the lung tissues of the mice were collected for pathological staining to analyze the degree of damage. The activities of myeloperoxidase (MPO), malondialdehyde (MDA), and oxidative stress-related factors (superoxide dismutase, SOD; glutathione peroxidase, GSH-Px) were detected by commercial kit in lung tissue. Furthermore, the number of neutrophils and related inflammatory factors (interleukin-1, IL-1β; tumor necrosis factor α, TNF-α; interleukin-6, IL-6) in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and serum were collected and tested to evaluate the effect of GBZK on inflammation. Masson staining was used to detect the level of lung fibrosis in mice. The activation of HMGB1 (high-mobility group protein 1) and NFκBp65 (nucleus factor kappa B) in lung tissue was evaluated by immunohistochemistry and western blot.

Results

The result revealed that PM2.5 induces lung damage, and GBZK gavage treatment could reduce the degree of injury in a concentration-dependent manner in mice. After GBZK treatment, the MPO activity, MDA content, and oxidative stress level in the lung tissues of mice decreased. And after GBZK treatment, the expression levels of inflammatory cytokines in BALF and blood were decreased. GBZK treatment also improved pulmonary fibrosis in mice. In addition, we also found that GBZK prevented the up-regulation of the HMGB1/NF-κB axis in the lungs of mice.

Conclusion

These results indicated that GBZK might protect mice from PM2.5-induced lung injury by inhibiting the HMGB1/NFκB pathway, thus repressing inflammation and pulmonary fibrosis.

Recent Advances in Traditional Chinese Medicine for Treatment of Podocyte Injury

Podocyte is also called glomerular epithelial cell, which has been considered as the final gatekeeper of glomerular filtration barrier (GFB). As a major contributor to proteinuria, podocyte injury underlies a variety of glomerular diseases and becomes the challenge to patients and their families in general. At present, the therapeutic methods of podocyte injury mainly include angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers, steroid and immunosuppressive medications. Nevertheless, the higher cost and side effects seriously disturb patients with podocyte injury. Promisingly, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has received an increasing amount of attention from different countries in the treatment of podocyte injury by invigorating spleen and kidney, clearing heat and eliminating dampness, as well enriching qi and activating blood. Therefore, we searched articles published in peer-reviewed English-language journals through Google Scholar, PubMed, Web of Science, and Science Direct. The protective effects of active ingredients, herbs, compound prescriptions, acupuncture and moxibustion for treatment of podocyte injury were further summarized and analyzed. Meanwhile, we discussed feasible directions for future development, and analyzed existing deficiencies and shortcomings of TCM in the treatment of podocyte injury. In conclusion, this paper shows that TCM treatments can serve as promising auxiliary therapeutic methods for the treatment of podocyte injury.

Cloning, prokaryotic expression, and purification of acetyl-CoA C-acetyltransferase from Atractylodes lancea

BACKGROUND

Cangzhu (Atractylodes lancea), a valuable and common traditional Chinese medicinal herb, is primarily used as an effective medicine with various health-promoting effects. The main pharmacological bioactive ingredients in the rhizome of A. lancea are terpenoids. Acetyl-CoA C-acetyltransferase (AACT) is the first enzyme in the terpenoid synthesis pathway and catalyzes two units of acetyl-CoA into acetoacetyl-CoA.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of the present work was to clone and identify function of AlAACT from Atractylodes lancea.

METHOD

A full-length cDNA clone of AlAACT was isolated using PCR and expressed in Escherichia coli. The expressed protein was purified using Ni-NTA agarose column using standard protocols. AlAACT was transiently expressed in N. benthamiana leaves to determine their subcellular location. The difference in growth between recombinant bacteria and control bacteria under different stresses was observed using the droplet plate experiment. Results：In this study, a full-length cDNA of AACT (AlAACT) was cloned from A. lancea, which contains a 1,227 bp open reading frame and encodes a protein with 409 amino acids. Bioinformatic and phylogenetic analysis clearly suggested that AlAACT shared high similarity with AACTs from other plants. The recombinant protein pET32a(+)/AlAACT was successfully expressed in Escherichia coli BL21(DE3) cells induced with 0.4 mM IPTG at 30°C as the optimized condition. The recombinant enzyme pET-32a-AlAACT was purified using the Ni-NTA column based on the His-tag, and the molecular weight was determined to be 62 kDa through SDS-PAGE and Western Blot analysis. The recombinant protein was eluted with 100, 300, and 500 mM imidazole; most of the protein was eluted with 300 mM imidazole. Under mannitol stress, the recombinant pET-32a-AlAACT protein showed a substantial advantage in terms of growth rates compared to the control. However, this phenomenon was directly opposite under NaCl abiotic stress. Subcellular localization showed that AlAACT localizes to the nucleus and cytoplasm. Conclusion：The expression and purification of recombinant enzyme pET-32a-AlAACT were successful, and the recombinant strain pET-32a-AlAACT in showed better growth in a drought stress. The expression of AlAACT-EGFP fusion protein revealed its localization in both nuclear and cytoplasm compartments. This study provides an important foundation for further research into the effects of terpenoid biosynthesis in A. lancea.

The Promotive Effect of the Active Ingredients of Atractylodes macrocephala on Intestinal Epithelial Repair Through Activating Ca2+ Pathway

Atractylodes macrocephala ( AM) is a famous traditional Chinese medicine for intestinal epithelial restitution through activating Ca2+ channels. However, the roles of specific AM compositions in intestinal epithelial restitution are sparse. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the concrete effects of the 4 active ingredients (atractylon, β-eudesmol, atractylenolide II, atractylenolide III) of AM and their combination on intestinal epithelial repair and the Ca2+ pathway in intestinal epithelial cell (IEC-6) cells. First, the best combination of the 4 ingredients with an optimal mixing ratio of atractylon: β-eudesmol: atractylenolide II: atractylenolide III = 1:2:2:2 was demonstrated by a 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5 diphenyl tetrazolium bromide orthogonal experiment. Subsequently, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to measure anti-inflammatory cytokine levels, the migratory ability was evaluated by cell scratch experiments, cell cycle analysis and [Ca2+]cyt concentration in cells were detected by flow cytometry, and the expression of the Ca2+ pathway-related genes was detected by immunofluorescence staining, quantitative polymerase chain reaction and whole blood assays. Our result showed that atractylon, β-Eudesmol, atractylenolide II, and atractylenolide III showed different abilities to promote the IEC-6 cells proliferation, migration, and the expression of anti-inflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-2, IL-10, and ornithine decarboxylase, as well as the intracellular [Ca2+]cyt concentration through stromal interaction molecule 1 transposition to activate Ca2+ pathway. Thereinto, atractylenolide III was the main active ingredient of AM for pro-proliferation and anti-inflammation, and the combination of 4 AM ingredients performed better beneficial effects on IEC-6 cells. Therefore, our study suggested that atractylenolide III was the active ingredient of AM for intestinal epithelial repair through activating the Ca2+ pathway, and the 4 ingredients of AM have a synergy in intestinal epithelial repair.

How Chinese Herbal Medicine Prevents Epidemics: From Ancient Pestilences to COVID-19 Pandemic

The ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic calls for effective control and prevention. Chinese medicine (CM) has developed systematic theories and approaches for infectious disease prevention over 2000 years. Here, we review and analyze Chinese herbal medicines (CHM) used in infectious disease prevention from ancient pestilences to modern epidemics and pandemics to share cumulative preventive medical experience. A total of 829 formulas, including 329 herbs from 189 ancient books, 131 formulas with 152 herbs, and 13 Chinese patent medicines (CPM) from 30 official Chinese prevention programs used in ancient epidemics, SARS, influenza and COVID-19 prevention, were reviewed and analyzed. Preventive CHM mainly has four functions and can be taken orally or applied externally. CHM that kill pathogens (Realgar [Xionghuang], Cyrtomium Fortunei J. Sm[Guanzhong]) were commonly used externally for disinfection in ancient prevention while CHM tonifying Qi (Astragali Radix [Huangq], Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma [Gancao]) are used for modern prevention. Taking CHM that expel pathogens (Realgar [Xionghuang], Lonicerae Japonicae Flos[Jinyinhua]) and CHM eliminating dampness (Atractylodis Rhizoma [Cangzhu], Pogostemonis Herba[Guanghuoxiang]) have been commonly used from ancient times to COVID-19. Damp toxins are a common characteristic of infectious diseases such as SARS and COVID-19. Thus, taking CHM expelling damp toxins and tonifying Qi are the main methods for SARS and COVID-19 prevention. CHM with different approaches have been widely used in infectious disease prevention from ancient times to the present. Multiple CM prevention methods may provide new perspectives for future pandemics.

Properties of Ethnomedicinal Plants and Their Bioactive Compounds: Possible Use for COVID-19 Prevention and Treatment

BACKGROUND

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has changed the global scenario. To date, there are no treatment or preventive options. The discovery of a new drug will take time. In addition, the new drug will have side effects, and the virus will gradually become resistant to it. Therefore, it is important to search for a drug with a natural origin.

OBJECTIVE

In this review, we analyzed and summarized various ethnomedicinal plants and their bioactive compounds as a source of antiviral agents for COVID-19 prevention and treatment.

METHODS

From the literature, we selected different natural compounds that can act as potential targets at low cost with broad-spectrum antiviral activity.

RESULTS

Of the 200 Chinese herbal extracts tested for their possible role against SARS-CoV, Lycoris radiata, Artemisia annua, Pyrrosia lingua, and Lindera aggregate showed anti-SARS-CoV effects with the median effective concentration = 2.4-88.2 μg/mL.

CONCLUSION

Ethnomedicinal herbs can be used as an alternative source of novel, promising antiviral agents that might directly or indirectly inhibit the COVID-19 progression.

An UPLC-MS/MS Method for Simultaneous Quantification of the Components of Shenyanyihao Oral Solution in Rat Plasma

Objectives

To study the quantification of the components in rat plasma after oral administration of Shenyanyihao oral solution.

Methods

Shenyanyihao oral solution has been traditionally used for the treatments of chronic nephritis in clinics. Stachydrine, Danshensu, chlorogenic acid, protocatechuic acid, plantamajoside, aesculetin, isoquercitrin, ferulic acid, baicalin, and baicalein are regarded as the main compounds in Shenyanyihao oral solution. A sensitive, efficient, and precise UPLC-MS/MS method was established and validated for the quantification of the components in rat plasma after oral administration of Shenyanyihao oral solution.

Results

The main pharmacokinetic parameters of the components were acquired based on the analysis of the plasma sample by a noncompartmental method using the WinNonlin7.0 pharmacokinetic program. Danshensu, protocatechuic acid, isoquercitrin, and ferulic acid from Shenyanyihao oral solution were quickly absorbed, and their peak concentration occurred at less than 0.5 h. The pharmacokinetic parameter of the average t_1/2 from Danshensu was 3.91 h in rats, and it was the most rapid distribution and elimination among the components. In addition, the C_max of stachydrine and baicalin were revealed as the higher plasma concentrations in rats.

Conclusions

This pharmacokinetic study seems to be useful for a further clinical study of Shenyanyihao oral solution in the treatments of chronic nephritis.

Atractylon Treatment Attenuates Pulmonary Fibrosis via Regulation of the mmu_circ_0000981/miR-211-5p/TGFBR2 Axis in an Ovalbumin-Induced Asthma Mouse Model

Asthma-induced pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is an important public health concern that has few treatment options given its poorly understood etiology; however, the epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) of pulmonary epithelial cells has been implicated to play an important role in inducing PF. Although previous studies have found atractylon (Atr) to have anti-inflammatory effects, whether Atr has anti-PF abilities remains unknown. The purpose of the current study was to validate the protective efficiency of Atr in both an animal model of ovalbumin (OVA)-induced asthma and an EMT model induced by transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) using TC-1 cells. The results of this study revealed that Atr treatment suppressed OVA-induced PF via fibrosis-related protein expression. Atr treatment suppressed OVA-induced circRNA-0000981 and TGFBR2 expression but promoted miR-211-5p expression. In vivo studies revealed that Atr suppressed TGF-β1-induced EMT and fibrosis-related protein expression via suppressing circRNA-0000981 and TGFBR2 expression. The results also suggested that the downregulation of circRNA-0000981 expression suppressed TGFBR2 by sponging miR-211-5p, which was validated by a luciferase reporter assay. Collectively, the findings of the present study suggest that Atr treatment attenuates PF by regulating the mmu_circ_0000981/miR-211-5p/TGFBR2 axis in an OVA-induced asthma mouse model.

A randomized placebo-controlled phase I clinical trial to evaluate the immunomodulatory activities of Atractylodes lancea (Thunb) DC. in healthy Thai subjects

Background

Atractylodes lancea (Thunb) DC. (AL) and bioactive compounds β-eudesmol and atractylodin have been demonstrated in the in vitro and in vivo studies for their potential clinical use in cholangiocarcinoma. The study was a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled phase I clinical trial to evaluate the immunomodulatory effect of AL in human subjects.

Methods

The modulatory effects of AL and β-eudesmol and atractylodin on TNFα and IL6 expression in PBMCs were measured using real-time PCR. Blood samples were collected from forty-eight healthy subjects following oral administration of a single or multiple dosing of capsule formulation of the standardized AL extract or placebo. Serum cytokine profiles, lymphocyte subpopulations (B lymphocytes, CD8⁺ cytotoxic T lymphocytes, CD4⁺ T-helper lymphocytes, and NK cells), and cytotoxic activity of PBMCs against the cholangiocarcinoma cell line CL-6 were evaluated using cytometric bead array (CBA) with flow cytometry analysis.

Results

AL extract at almost all concentrations significantly inhibited both TNFα and IL6 expression in Con A-mediated inflammation in PBMCs. β-Eudesmol at all concentrations significantly inhibited only IL6 expression. Atractylodin at the lowest concentration significantly inhibited the expression of both cytokines, while the highest concentration significantly inhibited only IL6 expression. The administration of AL at a single oral dose of 1000 mg appeared to decrease IFNγ and IL10 and increase B cell, while significantly increase NK and CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ cells. A trend of increasing (compared with placebo) in the cytotoxic activity of PBMCs at 24 h of dosing was observed. AL at multiple dosing of 1000 mg for 21 days tended to decrease the production of all cytokines, while significantly inhibited IL17A production at 24 h of dosing. In addition, a significant increase in CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ cells was observed. A trend of increase in the cytotoxic activity of PBMCs was observed at 24 h but terminated at 48 h of dosing.

Conclusions

The results confirm the immunomodulatory activity of AL in humans. This activity, in complementary with the direct action of AL on inducing cholangiocarcinoma cell apoptosis, suggests its potential role for CCA control.

Trial registration

Retrospectively registered on 17 October 2020 [Thai Clinical Trials Registry (TCTR: www.clinicaltrials.in.th) Number TCTR20201020001#].

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12906-020-03199-6.

Molecular Mechanism of Action of Repurposed Drugs and Traditional Chinese Medicine Used for the Treatment of Patients Infected With COVID-19: A Systematic Scoping Review

Background: The emergence of COVID-19 as a pandemic has resulted in the need for urgent development of vaccines and drugs and the conduction of clinical trials to fight the outbreak. Because of the time constraints associated with the development of vaccines and effective drugs, drug repurposing and other alternative treatment methods have been used to treat patients that have been infected by the SARS-CoV-2 virus and have acquired COVID-19. Objective: The objective of this systematic scoping review is to provide an overview of the molecular mechanism of action of repurposed drugs or alternative treatment medicines used to attenuate COVID-19 disease. Method: The research articles or gray literature, including theses, government reports, and official news online, were identified from four databases and one search engine. The full content of a total of 160 articles that fulfilled our inclusion criteria was analyzed and information about six drugs (ritonavir, lopinavir, oseltamivir, remdesivir, favipiravir, and chloroquine) and four Traditional Chinese Medicines (Shuang Huang Lian Kou Fu Ye, TCM combination of Bu Huan Jin Zheng Qi San and Da Yuan Yin, Xue Bi Jing Injection, and Qing Fei Pai Du Tang) was extracted. Results: All of the repurposed drugs and complementary medicine that have been used for the treatment of COVID-19 depend on the ability of the drug to inhibit the proliferation of the SARS-CoV-2 virus by binding to enzyme active sites, viral chain termination, or triggering of the molecular pathway, whereas Traditional Chinese Medicine plays a pivotal role in triggering the inflammation pathway, such as the neuraminidase blocker, to fight the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

Atractylodis Rhizoma: A review of its traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, toxicology and quality control

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Atractylodis Rhizoma (AR), mainly includes Atractylodes lancea (Thunb.) DC. (A. lancea) and Atractylodes chinensis (DC.) Koidz. (A. chinensis) is widely used in East Asia as a diuretic and stomachic drug, for the treatment of rheumatic diseases, digestive disorders, night blindness, and influenza as it contains a variety of sesquiterpenoids and other components of medicinal importance.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

A systematic summary on the botany, traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, toxicology, and quality control of AR was presented to explore the future therapeutic potential and scientific potential of this plant.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A review of the literature was performed by consulting scientific databases including Google Scholar, Web of Science, Baidu Scholar, Springer, PubMed, ScienceDirect, CNKI, etc. Plant taxonomy was confirmed to the database "The Plant List".

RESULTS

Over 200 chemical compounds have been isolated from AR, notably sesquiterpenoids and alkynes. Various pharmacological activities have been demonstrated, especially improving gastrointestinal function and thus allowed to assert most of the traditional uses of AR.

CONCLUSIONS

The researches on AR are extensive, but gaps still remain. The molecular mechanism, structure-activity relationship, potential synergistic and antagonistic effects of these components need to be further elucidated. It is suggested that further studies should be carried out in the aspects of comprehensive evaluation of the quality of medicinal materials, understanding of the "effective forms" and "additive effects" of the pharmacodynamic substances based on the same pharmacophore of TCM, and its long-term toxicity in vivo and clinical efficacy.

Properties of the Novel Chinese Herbal Medicine Formula Qu Du Qiang Fei I Hao Fang Warrant Further Research to Determine Its Clinical Efficacy in COVID-19 Treatment

Introduction: COVID-19, the infectious disease induced by the virus severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus-2, has caused increasing global health concerns, and novel strategies to prevent or ameliorate the condition are needed. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) herbal formulas have been used in the treatment of epidemics in China for over 2000 years. This study investigated the therapeutic effects of Qu Du Qiang Fei I Hao Fang (QDQF1) "Eliminating Virus and Strengthening Lung-No.1 Formula," in the treatment and prevention of COVID-19. QDQF1 consists of Shēng Huáng Qí, Běi Shā Shēn, Chuān Jié Gěng, Zhì Fáng Fēng, Qīng Lián Qiáo, Jīn Yín Huā, Bǎn Lán Gēn, Chǎo Cāng Zhú, Zǐ Huā Dì Dīng, and Shēng gān căo. Materials and Methods: A literature survey was performed by conducting systematic electronic searches in PubMed, Science Direct, Google Scholar, and in books. Results: Each herb in this formula has long been used to treat various diseases due to their pharmacologic, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects that inhibit microbial adherence to mucosal or epithelial surfaces, inhibit endotoxin shock, and selectively inhibit microbial growth. Conclusion: The herbs chosen for the QDQF1 formula have been historically paired, and cast a wide net over the potential COVID-19 symptomatology. Their combined functions provide comprehensive and balanced therapeutics from both TCM and allopathic perspectives. Individual herbs and herbal combinations are analyzed for their applicability to pertinent TCM patterns of COVID-19 presentations, including heat and cold patterns, damp and phlegm syndromes, toxicity, and deficiency patterns. A further study in a randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled trial of QDQF1 is recommended to assess its therapeutic efficacy in the treatment of COVID-19.

Investigation of the Potential Mechanism Governing the Effect of the Shen Zhu San on COVID-19 by Network Pharmacology

BACKGROUND

Since December 2019, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) due to SARS-CoV-2 infection has emerged in Wuhan and rapidly spread throughout China and even to other countries. Combined therapy with modern medicine and traditional Chinese medicine has been proposed, in which Shen Zhu San (SZS) was regarded as one of the basic prescriptions.

METHODS

Network pharmacological approaches along with candidate compound screening, target prediction, target tissue location, protein-protein interaction network, gene ontology (GO), KEGG enrichment analyses, and gene microarray analyses were applied.

RESULTS

A total of 627 targets of the 116 active ingredients of SZS were identified. Targets in immune cells and tissues were much more abundant than those in other tissues. A total of 597 targets were enriched in the GO biological cellular process, while 153 signaling pathways were enriched according to the KEGG analysis. A total of 450 SARS-related targets were integrated and intersected with the targets of SZS to identify 40 common targets that were significantly enriched in five immune function aspects of the immune system process during GO analysis. Several inflammation-related pathways were found to be significantly enriched throughout the study.

CONCLUSIONS

The therapeutic mechanisms of the effects of SZS on COVID-19 potentially involve four effects: suppressing cytokine storms, protecting the pulmonary alveolar-capillary barrier, regulating the immune response, and mediating cell death and survival.

Erzhu Jiedu decoction ameliorates liver precancerous lesions in a rat model of liver cancer

Precancerous lesions are the intermediate stage in the development of liver cancer from cirrhosis. Early intervention measures can effectively prevent the occurrence of liver cancer and prolong the lives of patients, resulting in greater economic effects. Erzhu Jiedu decoction (EJD) is a semiempirical formula that is used in the treatment of cirrhosis and liver cancer according to the academic philosophy of "Preventive treatment of disease" and has achieved good curative effects in clinical practice. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of EJD on liver precancerous lesions induced by diethylnitrosamine (DEN) in rats. The results showed that EJD improved the general conditions (body weight, ALT, AST, and GGT) and reduced the number of precancerous lesions in the rat model. Notably, the medium dose of EJD (1.05 g/kg) had better treatment effects than the low dose of EJD, and the high dose of EJD did not further improve the liver lesions compared to the medium dose of EJD. Moreover, EJD effectively reduced the DEN-induced GST-Pi, AFP, CK19, c-Myc, and Ki67 protein expression in liver precancerous tissues. Interestingly, EJD significantly reduced YAP and TAZ mRNA expression in the liver precancerous lesions. Collectively, EJD protects against in the initiation of liver cancer and the regulation of c-Myc and Hippo signaling pathways may be the underlying mechanism.

Meta-Analysis on the Chinese Herbal Formula Xiaoer-Feike Granules as a Complementary Therapy for Children With Acute Lower Respiratory Infections

Background

Over the past five years the Chinese herbal formula (CHF) medicine, Xiaoer-Feike granules (XFG), has become a widely used adjuvant therapy for acute lower respiratory infections (ALRI). Considering the rapid popularization and application of XFG, and the lack of systematic evidence evaluating its effectiveness and safety in treating ALRI, it is necessary to conduct a meta-analysis to determine its benefits for patients.

Methods

This study systematically identified randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of XFG treatments for ALRI through July 2019 using four English-databases (PubMed, Cochrane Library, Ovid, and Web of Science) and four Chinese-databases (Sino-med database, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), VIP database, and the WANFANG database). We then performed a quality assessment and data analysis with Review Manager 5.3.5 and Stata 15.1.

Results

Twenty-one RCTs involving 3425 patients were randomly divided into an XFG group and a conventional medicine (CM) group. The results showed that the clinical efficacy rate (CER) of the XFG group was significantly higher than that of the CM group (RR=1.17, 95% CI =1.13-1.22, P< 0.00001). In comparison with the CM group, the XFG group had strikingly shortened: resolution time of cough (RTC) (MD = -1.92; 95% CI =-2.33, -1.51, P<0.00001); resolution time of rale (RTR) (MD = -1.68; 95% CI =-2.27, -1.10, P<0.00001); resolution time of fever (RTF) (MD = -1.46; 95% CI =-1.92, -1.00, P<0.00001); resolution time of inflammatory lesions (RTIL) (MD = -2.43, 95% CI =-2.94, -1.93, P< 0.00001); and hospital stays (HS) (MD = -2.26, 95% CI =-3.03, -1.49, P< 0.00001). At the cellular and molecular level, the CD4, CD8, CD4/CD8, IL-6, TNF-α, and CRP levels were significantly improved when CM was complemented with XFG. In addition, no significant difference was observed between the XFG and CM groups in terms of the adverse events (AE) (RR =0.97, 95% CI= 0.61-1.54, P= 0.89).

Conclusions

The findings of this meta-analysis support the use of XFG in the treatment of ALRI. However, these results should be treated with caution due to the significant heterogeneity and publication bias of existing data. Further well-designed and high-quality RCTs are needed to interrogate the efficacy and safety of XFG.

The Important Role of Volatile Components From a Traditional Chinese Medicine Dayuan-Yin Against the COVID-19 Pandemic

Aromatic Chinese herbs have been used to prevent plagues since ancient times. Traditional Chinese medicine has unique advantages in the prevention and treatment of epidemic diseases. According to the traditional Chinese medicine treatment plan in the National COVID-19 Diagnosis and Treatment Plan (Trial Seventh Edition) of the National Health Commission, Chinese patent medicines or prescriptions rich in aromatic Chinese herbs are selected for prevention and treatment during the period of medical observation, clinical treatment, and recovery of confirmed COVID-19 patients. Some local health committees or traditional Chinese medicine administrations recommend a variety of other ways of using traditional aromatic Chinese herbs to prevent and cure COVID-19. These involve external fumigation, use of moxibustion, and wearing of sachet. The efficacy of aromatic Chinese herbs plays a decisive role in the prevention and treatment of COVID-19. The unique properties, chemical composition, and mechanism of action of aromatic Chinese herbs are worthy of extensive and in-depth experimental and clinical research. The findings are expected to provide a reference for follow-up treatment of novel coronavirus and the development of corresponding drugs. In 2003, Dayuan-Yin produced excellent results in the treatment of the SARS virus. Individually, 112 confirmed cases were administered this drug between January and April 2003, and more than 93.7% of the patients showed noticeable mitigation of the symptoms, as well as recovery. Dayuan-Yin also was selected as one of the nationally recommended prescriptions for the COVID-19. Based on the national recommendation of Dayuan-Yin prescription, this review discusses the role of volatile components in the prevention and treatment of COVID-19, and speculates the possible mechanism of action, so as to provide a basis for the prevention and treatment of COVID-19.

Antioxidant, Antimicrobial and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Essential Oil Derived from the Wild Rhizome of Atractylodes macrocephala

The present study investigated the chemical composition, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory activities of essential oil (EO) derived from the wild rhizomes of Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz. (AMA) growing in Qimen County (eastern China). GC/MS analysis identified fifteen compounds, representing 92.55 % of AMA EO. The major compounds were atractylone (39.22 %), β-eudesmol (27.70 %), thymol (5.74 %), hinesol (5.50 %), and 11-isopropylidenetricyclo[4.3.1.1(2,5)]undec-3-en-10-one (4.71 %). Ferricyanide reducing, 1,1-diphenyl-2-picyrlhydrazyl (DPPH) and 3-ethyl-benzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) scavenging assays revealed that AMA EO exhibited strong antioxidant capacities. Additionally, AMA EO showed inhibitory effects on growth of Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella enterica, Staphylococcus aureus, and Bacillus subtilis, with the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) ranging from 0.5 to 2.0 mg/mL. Treatments with AMA EO also significantly inhibited nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂ ) production in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW264.7 cells, indicating anti-inflammatory activity of AMA EO. Furthermore, treatments with AMA EO decreased the transcriptional levels of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), which might be the molecular mechanisms underlying its anti-inflammatory effects. Overall, these results provide a theoretical basis for further study and application of AMA EO in food and medicine products.

Principles and treatment strategies for the use of Chinese herbal medicine in patients at different stages of coronavirus infection

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a novel, human-infecting β-coronavirus enveloped, positive-sense single-stranded RNA viruses, similar to the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) infection that emerged in November 2002. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), the epidemic disease concepts of "febrile epidemics" (wenyi) or "warm diseases" (wenbing) are based on geographic and cultural aspects, and Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) played an important role in the treatment of epidemic diseases. CHM was widely used to treat patients suffered with SARS almost two decades ago during outbreak of SARS, with proven safety and potential benefits. TCM has also been widely used to treat cancer patients for a long history and much of them associate with immunomodulatory activity and are used to treat coronavirus-related diseases. We propose the use of CHM treatment principles for clinical practice, based on four main stages of COVID-19 infection: early, intermediate, severe, and convalescence. We suggest corresponding decoctions that exhibit antiviral activity and anti-inflammatory effects in the early stage of infection; preventing the disease from progressing from an intermediate to severe stage of infection; restoring normal lung function and improving consciousness in the severe stage; and ameliorating pulmonary and vascular injury in the convalescent stage. We summarize the pharmaceutical mechanisms of CHM for treating coronavirus via antiviral, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects.

Anti-influenza virus phytochemicals from Radix Paeoniae Alba and characterization of their neuraminidase inhibitory activities

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Bai Shao (Radix Paeoniae Alba, BS), the root of Paeonia lactiflora Pall., in ancient China was used for Wen Bing (Warm Disease) treatment. Wen Bing has the symptoms of influenza. Ethanol extract of the root has recently been shown to possess anti-influenza activity. However, the active compounds have not yet been identified.

AIM

We showed that BS aqueous extract was potent in inhibiting influenza A virus in infected cells. We aimed to isolate the bioactive compounds and characterize the anti-influenza mechanism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Plaque reduction assay was performed for fractions isolated from BS. Hemagglutination inhibition assay and neuraminidase inhibition assay were performed to find the target protein. Molecular docking and reverse genetics were used to confirm the action site of gallic acid on the neuraminidase protein.

RESULTS

We identified three tannin compounds gallic acid (GA), methyl gallate (MG) and pentagalloylglucose (PGG) in BS aqueous extract that could inhibit the replication of influenza A virus in MDCK cells. While only PGG was found to inhibit the influenza virus-induced hemagglutination of chicken erythrocytes, all three compounds significantly reduced the activity of the neuraminidase. The results from molecular docking and reverse genetics showed that GA interacted with Arg152 of neuraminidase protein.

CONCLUSION

Three compounds GA, MG and PGG isolated from BS were found to inhibit influenza A virus in MDCK cells. GA interacts with amino acid Arg152 of the viral neuraminidase. Our study identified anti-influenza compounds of BS and demonstrated their antiviral mechanism, thus providing scientific evidence for using this herb for clinical treatment.

Synthesis of functionalized tetrahydropyrans via cascade cycloaddition involving silyloxyallyl cation intermediates

An expedient synthesis of highly substituted tetrahydrobenzofuran via an unsymmetrical silyloxyallyl cation is reported.

Atractylon induces apoptosis and suppresses metastasis in hepatic cancer cells and inhibits growth in vivo

Background: Hepatic cancer is the most common primary liver malignancy, with high incidence and mortality worldwide. Atractylon is an active constituent isolated from Atractylodes lancea (Thunb.) DC. and Atractylodes chinensis (DC.) Koidz., which proved to have multiple activities. Methods: In this study, we evaluated the antihepatic cancer (HCC) effect of atractylon in vitro and in vivo and investigated its underlying mechanism. Cell proliferation, colony formation, cell apoptosis, migration and invaison and was identified by MTT, crystal violet staining, flow cytometry analysis, and Transwell assay. The ∆Ψm of HepG2 and MHCC97H cells were detected by Rhodamine 123. The ROS level was determined by 2,7-Dichlorodi-hydrofluorescein diacetate (DCFH-DA) method. Protein expression was identified by Western blot analysis. The anti-HCC effect of atractylon in vivo was evaluated by a subcutaneous tumor model. Results: The results suggested that atractylon significantly inhibits the proliferation and promotes apoptosis of hepatic cancer cell lines, including HepG2, SMCC7721, and MHCC97H. Moreover, the results showed that atractylon reduces the mitochondrial membrane potential (∆Ψm), increases ROS level, inhibits the expression of Bcl-2, and promotes the expression of Bax and cleaved caspase-3, indicating that atractylon induces HCC apoptosis through the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway. Our results also demonstrated that atractylon inhibits migration and invasion of hepatic cancer cells by inhibiting the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process and downregulating MMP-2 and MMP-9 expression. In addition, atractylon inhibited the growth of hepatic cancer and showed an inhibition effect on EMT process in vivo. Conclusion: In all, this study suggested that atractylon showed a promising anti-HCC effect with inhibiting proliferation, inducing apoptosis, and blocking invasion in vitro and inhibiting growth in vivo.

One-Step Synthesis of Furan Rings from α-Isopropylidene Ketones Mediated by Iodine/DMSO: An Approach to Potent Bioactive Terpenes

The system I₂/dimethyl sulfoxide mediates the one-step transformation of α-isopropylidene ketones into furan rings following a biomimetic approach. This methodology has been used for the synthesis of terpene furans such as mintfurane, curzerene, atractylon, and isoatractylon, all of them possessing interesting biological activities. The synthesis of linderazulene directly from 4,5-epoxygermacrone via a cascade reaction shows the potential of this protocol. Additionally, this compound proved to show significant ixodicidal activity.

Attractylone attenuates sepsis-associated encephalopathy and cognitive dysfunction by inhibiting microglial activation and neuroinflammation

Multiple studies demonstrated that sepsis is a life-threatening state of organ dysfunction caused by infection and can induce neuroinflammation and cognitive impairment. The aim of this study was to evaluate the protective effects of attractylone (Atr) on sepsis-associated encephalopathy (SAE) and cognitive dysfunction. Moreover, we studied the underlying molecular mechanisms. We used an LPS-induced sepsis mouse model and evaluated the cognitive function with the Morris water maze and open field test. Neuronal damage in the hippocampus was assessed by immunohistochemical analysis. BV2 cells were used to identify the protective mechanism of Atr. The result showed that Atr attenuated LPS-induced cognitive impairment, neural apoptosis, inflammatory factors, and microglial activation. The in vitro experiment showed that Atr promoted silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1) expression and suppressed NFκB expression. Downregulation of SIRT1 reversed the protective effect of Atr in the LPS condition. Moreover, Atr-induced SIRT1 expression promoted BV2 from LPS-induced M1 to M2 phenotype. Taken together, these results indicated that Atr was a potential therapeutic agent for SAE and cognitive dysfunction.

Qualitative and quantitative determination of Atractylodes rhizome using ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with linear ion trap-Orbitrap mass spectrometry with data-dependent processing

A quick and effective workflow based on ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with electron spray ionization and LTQ-Orbitrap mass spectrometry (UPLC-LTQ-Orbitrap MS) was established for compositional analysis and screening of the characteristic compounds of three species of Atractylodes rhizome for quality evaluation. This technique was employed to determine the seven main components in Atractylodes rhizome samples. Ultimately, 78 constituents were identified; of these, seven characteristic compounds were selected for species discrimination, comprising atractylodin (63), atractylenolide I (43), atractylenolide II (49), atractylenolide III (53), atractylon (69), methyl-atractylenolide II (54) and (4E,6E,12E)-tetradecadecatriene-8,10-diyne-1,3-diacetate (59). The seven main compounds, including six characteristic compounds, were simultaneously determined in 29 batches of Atractylodes rhizome samples. Thus, the method validation showed acceptable results. Quantitative analysis showed significantly different contents of the seven main components among the three species of Atractylodes rhizome, which indicates possible distinctions in the pharmacological effects. This established method can simultaneously provide qualitative and quantitative results for compositional characterization of Atractylodes rhizomes and for quality control.

Pharmacological effects of medicinal components of Atractylodes lancea (Thunb.) DC

Atractylodes lancea Thunb. DC. (AL) has a long history as one of the important herbs used in East Asia. This review is on the purpose of providing a comprehensive summary of the pharmacological effects of AL and its extractions. The publication from PubMed, ScienceDirect, Springer, and Wiley database was collected and summarized. The potential application of AL on the disease could be attributed to its pharmacological properties such as anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory and other essential effects. Hence, this review aims at providing evidence of the pharmacological activities of AL as one of natural products used in clinical trial.

Antiviral Activity of the Sesquiterpene Lactones from Centipeda minima against Influenza a Virus in vitro

During the course of searching for antiviral agents from Chinese medicinal herbs, we found that the supercritical fluid extract (SFE) of Centipeda minima possessed good in vitro antiviral activity against influenza virus A/Puerto Rico/8/34 H1N1 (PR8). Bioassay-guided isolation and identification led to the isolation from this extract of seven pseudoguaianolides (1-7). These, as well as nine other sesquiterpene lactones (8-16) previously isolated from this herb were all tested for their anti-PR8 activity using both the cytopathogenic effect (CPE) reduction and cell counting kit 8 (CCK8) assays. As a result, eight pseudoguaianolides (1-8) possessing an α,β-unsaturated cyclopentenone moiety showed antiviral activity against PR8 to different extents. Of the active compounds, brevilin A (4) exhibited the strongest anti-PR8 activity, with an IC50 value much lower than that of the positive control ribavirin. Mechanistic study revealed that brevilin A affected the intracellular replication of PR8 via downregulating the expression of viral M2 protein. All these results suggest the potential application of the pseudoguaianolides containing an α,β-unsaturated cyclopentenone moiety (e.g. brevilin A) in the treatment of influenza virus infection.

Identification of a Multicomponent Traditional Herbal Medicine by HPLC-MS and Electron and Light Microscopy

Background: Commercial pharmaceutical herbal products have enabled people to take traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in a convenient and accessible form. However, the quantity and quality should be additionally inspected. To address the issue, a combination of chemical and physical inspection methods were developed to evaluate the amount of an herbal formula, Xiang-Sha-Liu-Jun-Zi-Tang (XSLJZT), in clinical TCM practice. Methods: A high-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC–MS) method with electrospray ionization was developed to measure the herbal biomarkers of guanosine, atractylenolide III, glycyrrhizic acid, dehydrocostus lactone, hesperidin, and oleanolic acid from XSLJZT. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) photographs and light microscopy photographs with Congo red and iodine–KI staining were used to identify the cellulose fibers and starch content. Furthermore, solubility analysis, swelling power test, and crude fiber analysis were contributed to measure the starch additive in pharmaceutical products. Results: The results demonstrated large variations in the chemical components of different pharmaceutical brands. The SEM photographs revealed that the starch was oval, smooth, and granular, and that the raw herbal powder appears stripy, stretched, and filiform. The stained light microscopy photographs of all of the pharmaceutical products showed added starch and raw herbal powder as extenders. Conclusion: The developed chemical and physical methods provide a standard operating procedure for the quantity control of the herbal pharmaceutical products of XSLJZT.

Using UPLC-MS/MS for Characterization of Active Components in Extracts of Yupingfeng and Application to a Comparative Pharmacokinetic Study in Rat Plasma after Oral Administration

Yupingfeng (YPF), a famous traditional Chinese medicine, which contains a large array of compounds, has been effectually used in health protection. A two-dimensional liquid chromatography (²D-LC) combined with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (QTOF-MS) method was firstly established to separate and identify chemical components in YPF. A total of 33 compounds were identified, including 15 constituents (flavonoids and saponins) in Astragali radix; seven constituents (sesquiterpenoids and polysaccharide) in Atractylodis rhizoma; and 11 constituents (chromone and coumarins) in Saposhnikoviae radix. The corresponding fragmentation pathway of typical substances was investigated. Then, seven active constituents (astragaloside, calycosin, formononetin, cimicifugoside, 4-O-beta-d-glucosyl-5-O-methylvisamminol, sec-O-glucosylhamaudol, and atractylenolide II) derived from three medicinal plants were chosen to further investigate the pharmacokinetic behavior of YPF formula using ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography with triple quadrupole mass spectrometry system. The method was sensitive, accurate and reliable. We also used the area under the plasma concentration-time curve from zero to infinity (AUC_0-∞) as weighting factor to make an integrated pharmacokinetic curve. Results show that the constituents of Saposhnikoviae radix have the best absorption and pharmacokinetic behavior and may play important role in leading to the changes of overall therapeutic effects of YPF. Further study is needed to confirm the association between them.