Flavonoids from Epimedium pubescens: extraction and mechanism, antioxidant capacity and effects on CAT and GSH-Px of Drosophila melanogaster

Qianggu concentrate: unlocking bone protection power via antioxidative SIRT1/NRF2/HO-1 pathways in type 2 diabetic osteoporosis

Background

Qianggu Concentrate (QGHJ), a traditional Chinese medicine, is extensively used to treat Type 2 Diabetic Osteoporosis (T2DOP). Despite its widespread use, research on its therapeutic mechanisms within T2DOP is notably scarce.

Objective

To explore QGHJ's osteoprotection in T2DOP rats and BMSCs, focusing on the antioxidant activation of SIRT1/NRF2/HO-1 and NRF2 nuclear migration.

Methods

QGHJ constituent analysis was performed using UPLC-HRMS. Safety, bone-health efficacy, and glucose metabolic effects in T2DOP rats were evaluated via general condition assessments, biomarker profiling, micro-CT, biomechanics, staining methods, and ELISA, supplemented by RT-qPCR and Western blot. BMSCs' responses to QGHJ under oxidative stress, including viability, apoptosis, and osteogenic differentiation, were determined using CCK-8, flow cytometry, ALP/ARS staining, and molecular techniques. The modulation of the SIRT1/NRF2/HO-1 pathway by QGHJ was explored through oxidative stress biomarkers, immunofluorescence, and Western blot assays.

Results

UPLC-HRMS identified flavonoids, monoterpenes, and isoflavones as QGHJ's key compounds. In vivo, QGHJ proved safe and effective for T2DOP rats, enhancing bone mineral density, microenvironment, and biomechanical properties without impairing vital organs. It modulated bone markers PINP, TRACP 5b, RUNX2 and PPARγ, favoring bone anabolism and reduced catabolism, thus optimizing bone integrity. QGHJ also regulated glycemia and mitigated insulin resistance. In vitro, it preserved BMSCs' viability amidst oxidative stress, curbed apoptosis, and fostered osteogenesis with regulated RUNX2/PPARγ expression. Mechanistic insights revealed QGHJ activated the SIRT1/NRF2/HO-1 pathway, augmented NRF2 nuclear translocation, and enhanced the antioxidative response, promoting bone health under stress.

Conclusion

In T2DOP rat and BMSCs oxidative stress models, QGHJ's bone protection is anchored in its antioxidative mechanisms via the SIRT1/NRF2/HO-1 pathway activation and NRF2 nuclear translocation.

Pharmacological actions of the bioactive compounds of Epimedium on the male reproductive system: current status and future perspective

ABSTRACT

Compounds isolated from Epimedium include the total flavonoids of Epimedium, icariin, and its metabolites (icaritin, icariside I, and icariside II), which have similar molecular structures. Modern pharmacological research and clinical practice have proved that Epimedium and its active components have a wide range of pharmacological effects, especially in improving sexual function, hormone regulation, anti-osteoporosis, immune function regulation, anti-oxidation, and anti-tumor activity. To date, we still need a comprehensive source of knowledge about the pharmacological effects of Epimedium and its bioactive compounds on the male reproductive system. However, their actions in other tissues have been reviewed in recent years. This review critically focuses on the Epimedium, its bioactive compounds, and the biochemical and molecular mechanisms that modulate vital pathways associated with the male reproductive system. Such intrinsic knowledge will significantly further studies on the Epimedium and its bioactive compounds that protect the male reproductive system and provide some guidances for clinical treatment of related male reproductive disorders.

In Vitro evaluation of the anti-pancreatic cancer activity of epimedium herb

Introduction: Pancreatic cancer (PC) is a particularly aggressive malignancy with limited therapeutic options. The search for innovative treatments has focused on traditional Chinese medicine, specifically epimedium. This research investigates epimedium's active ingredients, potential targets, and underlying mechanisms in treating PC. Methods: High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to quantify the active components of epimedium and HPLC-Q-TOF-MS was employed for qualitative identification. Potential targets of epimedium's active ingredients were identified using the TCMSP, ETCM, CTD, and Swiss Target Prediction databases. Potential PC-related targets were sourced from DisGeNET, GeneCards, and OMIM databases. A Venn diagram was utilized to identify overlapping PC-related and epimedium targets. Core targets and pathways were elucidated through protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis, Gene Ontology (GO) assessments, and Reactome pathway enrichment analyses. Molecular docking techniques investigated interactions between active compounds and these targets. The expression and prognostic implications of target genes were evaluated using GEPIA2 and the Human Protein Atlas (HPA) databases. In vitro studies assessed the impact of epimedium extract (EPE) on Panc-1 cell viability, and Western blot analysis examined the expression levels of key targets. Results: Network pharmacological indicate that epimedium econtains active components such as baohuoside I, icariin, hyperoside, and epimedin B, which have potential therapeutic effects against PC. In vitro assays confirmed that EPE significantly reduced the viability of Panc-1 cells. Western blot analysis revealed a considerable decrease in the expression of key targets in EPE-treated cells, including AKT1, EGFR, p-EGFR, JUN, BCL2, IL6, and SRC. The R-HSA-1280215: Interleukin-4 and Interleukin-13 signaling pathways involving these genes were identified as potential therapeutic targets. Discussion: Epimedium holds promise as a candidate for treating PC. The modulation of interleukin-4 and interleukin-13 signaling pathways could be a pivotal mechanism by which epimedium impedes tumor development. Further research is warranted to validate these findings and explore the clinical applicability of epimedium in PC treatment.

Neonatal vitamin A supplementation improves sheep fertility potential

This study aimed to explore the effects of neonatal vitamin A (VA) supplementation on testis development and spermatogenesis. A total of 32 newborn lambs were intramuscularly injected with corn oil (control group) or corn oil + 2500 IU/kg BW VA (VA group). They were slaughtered and sampled at 3 weeks and 8 months of age to analyze spermatogenesis, cell proliferation, hormone secretion, antioxidant status of the testis, and adult sheep sperm parameters. Compared with the control group, the expression of spermatogonial differentiation-related genes in VA group was up-regulated (P < 0.05). Testis weight, seminiferous tubule diameter, number of spermatogonium and spermatocyte, and sperm density increased significantly in VA group at 8 months of age (P < 0.05). Neonatal VA injection upregulated the expression of the cell proliferation marker PCNA and cell cycle-related genes in the testis (P < 0.05). VA increased the concentrations of testosterone (T), luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in the serum and upregulated steroidogenesis-related genes in the testis (P < 0.05). The antioxidant levels in the VA group were maintained at high levels. The total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), antioxidant enzyme content and antioxidant-related genes were increased in the testis (P < 0.05). Furthermore, neonatal VA injection activated retinoic acid (RA) signaling to maintain the blood-testosterone barrier (BTB) in the testis of 3-week-old sheep. AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and protein kinase B (AKT) signaling were also modulated in the sheep testis (P < 0.05). Taken together, VA supplementation in newborn rams promotes testis development and spermatogenesis to improve fertility.

Advancements in the Biotransformation and Biosynthesis of the Primary Active Flavonoids Derived from Epimedium

Epimedium is a classical Chinese herbal medicine, which has been used extensively to treat various diseases, such as sexual dysfunction, osteoporosis, cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, and brain diseases. Flavonoids, such as icariin, baohuoside I, icaritin, and epimedin C, are the main active ingredients with diverse pharmacological activities. Currently, most Epimedium flavonoids are extracted from Epimedium plants, but this method cannot meet the increasing market demand. Biotransformation strategies promised huge potential for increasing the contents of high-value Epimedium flavonoids, which would promote the full use of the Epimedium herb. Complete biosynthesis of major Epimedium flavonoids by microbial cell factories would enable industrial-scale production of Epimedium flavonoids. This review summarizes the structures, pharmacological activities, and biosynthesis pathways in the Epimedium plant, as well as the extraction methods of major Epimedium flavonoids, and advancements in the biotransformation and complete microbial synthesis of Epimedium flavonoids, which would provide valuable insights for future studies on Epimedium herb usage and the production of Epimedium flavonoids.

Efficient production of icariin and baohuoside I from Epimedium Folium flavonoids by fungal α-L-rhamnosidase hydrolysing regioselectively the terminal rhamnose of epimedin C

Industrial application of icariin and baohuoside I has been hindered by the short supply to a great extent. In this work, a novel GH78 α-L-rhamnosidase AmRha catalyzed the bioconversion of low-value epimedin C in crude Epimedium Folium flavonoids (EFs) to icariin and baohuoside I was developed. Firstly, the high-level expression of AmRha in Komagataella phaffii GS115 attained an enzyme activity of 571.04 U/mL. The purified recombinant AmRha could hydrolyze α-1,2-rhamnoside bond between two rhamnoses (α-Rha(2 → 1)α-Rha) in epimedin C to produce icariin with a molar conversion rate of 92.3%, in vitro. Furtherly, the biotransformation of epimedin C to icariin by the recombinant Komagataella phaffii GS115 cells was also investigated, which elevated the EFs concentration by fivefold. In addition, biotransformation of epimedins A-C and icariin in the raw EFs to baohuoside I was fulfilled by a collaboration of AmRha and β-glucosidase/β-xylosidase Dth3. The results obtained here provide a new insight into the preparation of high-value products icariin and baohuoside I from cheap raw EFs.

Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant traditional Chinese Medicine in treatment and prevention of osteoporosis

A metabolic bone disorder called osteoporosis is characterized by decreased bone mass and compromised microarchitecture. This condition can deteriorate bones and raise the risk of fractures. The two main causes of osteoporosis are an increase in osteoclast activity or quantity and a decrease in osteoblast viability. Numerous mechanisms, including estrogen shortage, aging, chemical agents, and decreased mechanical loads, have been linked to osteoporosis. Inflammation and oxidative stress have recently been linked to osteoporosis, according to an increasing number of studies. The two primary medications used to treat osteoporosis at the moment are bisphosphonates and selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs). These medications work well for osteoporosis brought on by aging and estrogen deprivation, however, they do not target inflammation and oxidative stress-induced osteoporosis. In addition, these drugs have some limitations that are attributed to various side effects that have not been overcome. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been applied in osteoporosis for many years and has a high safety profile. Therefore, in this review, literature related to botanical drugs that have an effect on inflammation and oxidative stress-induced osteoporosis was searched for. Moreover, the pharmacologically active ingredients of these herbs and the pathways were discussed and may contribute to the discovery of more safe and effective drugs for the treatment of osteoporosis.

Effects of sweet potato vine silage supplementation on meat quality, antioxidant capacity and immune function in finishing pigs

Sweet potato vine, the byproduct of sweet potato, has a high nutritional value. Silage is an effective solution for nutrient preservation. This article explored the effects of sweet potato vine silage (SPVS) supplementation on meat quality, antioxidant capacity and immune function in finishing pigs. One hundred and eighty finishing pigs (Berkshire × Licha Black) with a body weight of 74.54 ± 3.32 kg were randomly divided into three groups. The three groups were separately fed basal diet (Ctrl), Ctrl supplemented with 2.5% SPVS (LSPVS) or 5% SPVS (HSPVS) on a dry matter basis. Results showed that the eye muscle area in the LSPVS group was significantly increased. The carcass weight in the HSPVS was significantly reduced compared with Ctrl. For the meat quality, only cooking loss in both HSPVS and LSPVS was reduced while other indexes had no significant differences. For the antioxidant capacity, the hepatic level of glutathione (GSH) peroxidase (GSH-PX) was significantly upregulated in LSPVS but downregulated in HSPVS. In the serum, HSPVS decreased GSH level and increased GSH-PX level. HSPVS significantly reduced hepatic interleukin-1β (IL-1β) levels and LSPVS significantly reduced IL-12 levels and increased IL-8 and IL-6 levels. Moreover, HSPVS and LSPVS promoted the secretion of immunoglobulin M (IgM) and IgG in the serum. Our data showed that low-dose SPVS supplementation improved carcass traits and high-dose SPVS supplementation increased immune function in finishing pigs, which provides a new alternative to improve animal health.

Systematic Quality Evaluation of Epimedium wushanense T. S. Ying Based on Two Quality Control Standards: Total Flavonoid Glycosides and Epimedin C

Two quality control standards, total flavonoid glycosides of Epimedii Folium and epimedin C of Epimedii Wushanensis Folium, were used to systematically evaluate the quality of Epimedium wushanense T. S. Ying, so as to provide reference for its germplasm screening and resource utilization. Seven representative populations of E. wushanense covering its main distribution areas were uniformly sampled during the flowering period. There were significant quality differences among the populations of E. wushanense. According to the quality standard of total flavonoid glycosides, all populations were superior to the quality standard of the Chinese Pharmacopoeia for Epimedii Folium, with more than 1.5 % total flavonoid glycosides. The variation ranges of epimedin A, epimedin B, epimedin C, icariin and total flavonoid glycosides were 0.40-0.76 %, 0.51-0.83 %, 1.70-9.31 %, 0.40-1.23 % and 3.05-10.61 %, respectively. According to the quality standard of epimedin C, all populations were better than the quality standard of the Chinese Pharmacopoeia for Epimedii Wushanensis Folium, with more than 1.0 % epimedin C. The variation range of epimedin C was 2.22-10.06 %. When comparing the results of the two methods, a trend of slightly lower mean values was found for total flavonoid glycosides, except for the HBXW population. The quality of E. wushanense was superior to both the quality standard of Epimedii Folium and Epimedii Wushanense Folium in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia. Epimedin C was the most abundant component. Among the investigated populations, HBXW and HBGK exhibited the highest quality, and may provide excellent genetic resources for standardized cultivation. In addition, the habitat of these populations can also serve a reference for cultivation conditions.

Effects of dietary pretreated Chinese herbal medicine supplementation on production performance, egg quality, uterine histopathological changes, and antioxidant capacity in late-phase laying hens

Aims: The study aimed to evaluate the effects of pretreated Chinese herbal medicine (PCHM) on egg quality, production performance, histopathological changes in the uterus, antiox idant capacity, and antioxidant gene expression in late-phase layers. Methods: Jinghong No.1 layers (n = 360, 68 weeks old) were assigned randomly to one of f our dietary interventions. Each treatment was replicated six times. Repeat 15 chickens per g roup. All birds were fed a diet composed of a corn-soybean meal-based diet supplemented with 0, 0.2, 0.4, or 0.8% PCHM for 6 weeks. Results: Dietary PCHM supplementation had no significant effects on laying rate, feed con sumption, yolk color, and shape index. With increasing PCHM level the Haugh unit linearly increased (P < 0.05). Supplementation of 0.8% PCHM increased egg weight, compared with the control (P < 0.05). PCHM can effectively alleviated the pathological changes caused by aging in the uterus including hemorrhage, and many inflammatory cell infiltrations. Supplementation of 0.4% PCHM increased glutathione peroxidase (GSHPx) in liver, magnum, and plasm considerably, compared with the control (P < 0.05). Supplementation of PCHM decr ease in the liver, magnum, and uterus on malondialdehyde (MDA) content, compared with the control (P < 0.05). Compared with the control group, mRNA expressions of glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPX1), peroxidase 4 (GPX4), catalase (CAT), and nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) in the magnum, liver, and uterus were dramatically rose in the 0.4% PCHM supplementation group (P < 0.05). In summary, dietary supplementation after PCHM increased egg weight and quality in late-phase laying hens. Conclusion: Dietary PCHM increased the antioxidative capacity of late-phase laying hens, which could be associated with increased mRNA expression of antioxidant enzymes and Nrf2. These findings provide potential for using PCHM to increase the production performance in late-phase laying hens.

Dietary Epimedium extract supplementation improves intestinal functions and alters gut microbiota in broilers

BACKGROUND

Growth-promoting antibiotics have been banned by law in the livestock and poultry breeding industry in many countries. Various alternatives to antibiotics have been investigated for using in livestock. Epimedium (EM) is an herb rich in flavonoids that has many beneficial effects on animals. Therefore, this study was planned to explore the potential of EM as a new alternative antibiotic product in animal feed.

METHODS

A total of 720 1-day-old male broilers (Arbor Acres Plus) were randomly divided into six groups and fed basal diet (normal control; NC), basal diet supplemented with antibiotic (75 mg/kg chlortetracycline; CTC), and basal diet supplemented with 100, 200, 400 or 800 mg/kg EM extract for 6 weeks (EM100, EM200, EM400 and EM800 groups). The growth performance at weeks 3 and 6 was measured. Serum, intestinal tissue and feces were collected to assay for antioxidant indexes, intestinal permeability, lactic acid and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) profiles, microbial composition, and expression of intestinal barrier genes.

RESULTS

The average daily feed intake in CTC group at 1-21 d was significantly higher than that in the NC group, and had no statistical difference with EM groups. Compared with NC group, average daily gain in CTC and EM200 groups increased significantly at 1-21 and 1-42 d. Compared with NC group, EM200 and EM400 groups had significantly decreased levels of lipopolysaccharide and D-lactic acid in serum throughout the study. The concentrations of lactic acid, acetic acid, propionic acid, butyric acid and SCFAs in feces of birds fed 200 mg/kg EM diet were significantly higher than those fed chlortetracycline. The dietary supplementation of chlortetracycline and 200 mg/kg EM significantly increased ileal expression of SOD1, Claudin-1 and ZO-1 genes. Dietary supplemented with 200 mg/kg EM increased the relative abundances of g_NK4A214_group and Lactobacillus in the jejunal, while the relative abundances of Microbacterium, Kitasatospora, Bacteroides in the jejunal and Gallibacterium in the ileum decreased.

CONCLUSION

Supplementation with 200 mg/kg EM extract improved the composition of intestinal microbiota by regulating the core bacterial genus Lactobacillus, and increased the concentration of beneficial metabolites lactic acid and SCFAs in the flora, thereby improving the antioxidant capacity and intestinal permeability, enhancing the function of tight junction proteins. These beneficial effects improved the growth performance of broilers.

Potential Properties of Natural Nutraceuticals and Antioxidants in Age-Related Eye Disorders

Eye health is crucial, and the onset of diseases can reduce vision and affect the quality of life of patients. The main causes of progressive and irreversible vision loss include various pathologies, such as cataracts, ocular atrophy, corneal opacity, age-related macular degeneration, uncorrected refractive error, posterior capsular opacification, uveitis, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, retinal detachment, undetermined disease and other disorders involving oxidative stress and inflammation. The eyes are constantly exposed to the external environment and, for this reason, must be protected from damage from the outside. Many drugs, including cortisonics and antinflammatory drugs have widely been used to counteract eye disorders. However, recent advances have been obtained via supplementation with natural antioxidants and nutraceuticals for patients. In particular, evidence has accumulated that polyphenols (mostly deriving from Citrus Bergamia) represent a reliable source of antioxidants able to counteract oxidative stress accompanying early stages of eye diseases. Luteolin in particular has been found to protect photoreceptors, thereby improving vision in many disease states. Moreover, a consistent anti-inflammatory response was found to occur when curcumin is used alone or in combination with other nutraceuticals. Additionally, Coenzyme Q10 has been demonstrated to produce a consistent effect in reducing ocular pressure, thereby leading to protection in patients undergoing glaucoma. Finally, both grape seed extract, rich in anthocyanosides, and polynsatured fatty acids seem to contribute to the prevention of retinal disorders. Thus, a combination of nutraceuticals and antioxidants may represent the right solution for a multi-action activity in eye protection, in association with current drug therapies, and this will be of potential interest in early stages of eye disorders.

Recent Advances in Natural Polyphenol Research

Polyphenols are secondary metabolites produced by plants, which contribute to the plant's defense against abiotic stress conditions (e.g., UV radiation and precipitation), the aggression of herbivores, and plant pathogens. Epidemiological studies suggest that long-term consumption of plant polyphenols protects against cardiovascular disease, cancer, osteoporosis, diabetes, and neurodegenerative diseases. Their structural diversity has fascinated and confronted analytical chemists on how to carry out unambiguous identification, exhaustive recovery from plants and organic waste, and define their nutritional and biological potential. The food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries employ polyphenols from fruits and vegetables to produce additives, additional foods, and supplements. In some cases, nanocarriers have been used to protect polyphenols during food processing, to solve the issues related to low water solubility, to transport them to the site of action, and improve their bioavailability. This review summarizes the structure-bioactivity relationships, processing parameters that impact polyphenol stability and bioavailability, the research progress in nanocarrier delivery, and the most innovative methodologies for the exhaustive recovery of polyphenols from plant and agri-waste materials.

Effects of Se-enriched Chrysanthemum morifolium on lifespan and antioxidant defense-related gene expression of Drosophila melanogaster model

Chrysanthemum morifolium is a well-known edible medicinal plant in Asia and some other regions. Content of selenium in Se-enriched C. morifolium (SeCM) is significantly higher than that in traditional C. morifolium (non-Se-enriched C. morifolium, TCM). In order to understand health effects of SeCM, its chemical composition, lifespan-prolonging activities, and impacts on antioxidant defense-related gene expressions of model organism D. melanogaster were systematically studied. A total of eight phenols, including luteolin-7-O-glucoside, linarin, luteolin, apigenin, diosmetin, acacetin, 3-caffeoylquinic acid and 4,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid, were identified in SeCM extract. Compared with TCM, SeCM exhibited superior antioxidant properties. Intake of SeCM dramatically reduced malondialdehyde level and increased activities of endogenous antioxidant enzymes in fruit flies. SeCM was able to upregulate gene expressions of Cu/Zn-superoxide dismutase, Mn-superoxide dismutase and hydrogen peroxide catalase, and extend lifespans of fruit flies. Comparatively high antioxidant capacities and lifespan-prolonging activities of SeCM might be attributed to its abundant phenols and selenium, which probably ameliorated accumulation of free radicals and susceptibility to oxidative stress. These findings provide clues on further exploitation and utilization of Se-enriched C. morifolium. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Chrysanthemum morifolium has been used for nutraceutical and curative purposes in China for thousands of years. Se-enriched C. morifolium typically contains more selenium than traditional C. morifolium, and is widely consumed in Asia and some other regions. Selenium is an essential micronutrient for humans, and selenium deficiency may result in several diseases such as myocardial infarction. SeCM is one of important selenium supplements. In this study, SeCM was found to upregulate gene expressions of Cu/Zn-superoxide dismutase, Mn-superoxide dismutase, and hydrogen peroxide catalase, and extend lifespans of experimental animals. These results provide supporting information for developing SeCM-based functional foods with distinct health benefits.

Epimedii Herba: An ancient Chinese herbal medicine in the prevention and treatment of rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, progressive inflammatory and systemic autoimmune disease resulting in severe joint destruction, lifelong suffering and considerable disability. Diverse prescriptions of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) containing Epimedii Herba (EH) achieve greatly curative effects against RA. The present review aims to systemically summarize the therapeutic effect, pharmacological mechanism, bioavailability and safety assessment of EH to provide a novel insight for subsequent studies. The search terms included were "Epimedii Herba", "yinyanghuo", "arthritis, rheumatoid" and "Rheumatoid Arthritis", and relevant literatures were collected on the database such as Google Scholar, Pubmed, Web of Science and CNKI. In this review, 15 compounds from EH for the treatment of RA were summarized from the aspects of anti-inflammatory, immunoregulatory, cartilage and bone protective, antiangiogenic and antioxidant activities. Although EH has been frequently used to treat RA in clinical practice, studies on mechanisms of these activities are still scarce. Various compounds of EH have the multifunctional traits in the treatment of RA, so EH may be a great complementary medicine option and it is necessary to pay more attention to further research and development.

Based on network pharmacology and molecular docking to explore the protective effect of Epimedii Folium extract on cisplatin-induced intestinal injury in mice

Background: Epimedii Folium, as a natural botanical medicine, has been reported to have protective effects on intestinal diseases by modulating multiple signaling pathways. This study aimed to explore the potential targets and molecular mechanisms of Epimedii Folium extract (EFE) against cisplatin-induced intestinal injury through network pharmacology, molecular docking, and animal experiments.

Methods: Network pharmacology was used to predict potential candidate targets and related signaling pathways. Molecular docking was used to simulate the interactions between significant potential candidate targets and active components. For experimental validation, mice were intraperitoneally injected with cisplatin 20 mg/kg to establish an intestinal injury model. EFE (100, 200 mg/kg) was administered to mice by gavage for 10 days. The protective effect of EFE on intestinal injury was analyzed through biochemical index detection, histopathological staining, and western blotting.

Results: Network pharmacology analysis revealed that PI3K-Akt and apoptosis signaling pathways were thought to play critical roles in EFE treatment of the intestinal injury. Molecular docking results showed that the active constituents of Epimedii Folium, including Icariin, Epimedin A, Epimedin B, and Epimedin C, stably docked with the core AKT1, p53, TNF-α, and NF-κB. In verified experiments, EFE could protect the antioxidant defense system by increasing the levels of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and catalase (CAT) while reducing the content of malondialdehyde (MDA). EFE could also inhibit the expression of NF-κB and the secretion of inflammatory factors, including TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6, thereby relieving the inflammatory damage. Further mechanism studies confirmed that EFE had an excellent protective effect on cisplatin-induced intestinal injury by regulating PI3K-Akt, caspase, and NF-κB signaling pathways.

Conclusion: In summary, EFE could mitigate cisplatin-induced intestinal damage by modulating oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis.

Icariside II suppresses the tumorigenesis and development of ovarian cancer by regulating miR-144-3p/IGF2R axis

Ovarian cancer is one of the three major gynecological malignancies. It has been reported that Icariside II was able to block the occurrence and development of ovarian cancer. However, the detailed mechanism by which Icariside II regulates the development of ovarian cancer is widely unknown. EdU staining and transwell assays were applied to detect the proliferation, migration, and invasion of ovarian cancer cells. Next, the relationship between miR-144-3p and IGF2R was verified by the dual-luciferase reporter assay. Moreover, in vivo animal model was constructed to verify the effect of Icariside II on the development of ovarian cancer. Icariside II notably inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion and induced the apoptosis of ovarian cancer cells. Additionally, Icariside II markedly increased the level of miR-144-3p in ovarian cancer cells. Moreover, IGF2R was targeted by miR-144-3p directly. Icariside II significantly decreased the expression of IGF2R and the phosphorylation level of AKT and mTOR in ovarian cancer cells, which were partially reversed by miR-144-3p inhibitor. Meanwhile, Icariside II remarkably promoted the autophagy of ovarian cancer cells, as confirmed by the increased expression of Beclin-1 and ATG-5 and decreased expression of p62; however, co-treatment with miR-144-3p inhibitor notably decreased autophagy. Furthermore, the result of animal study suggested Icariside II notably inhibited ovarian tumor growth as well. Collectively, Icariside II could suppress the tumorigenesis and development of ovarian cancer by promoting autophagy via miR-144-3p/IGF2R axis. These results may be beneficial for future studies on the use of Icariside II to treat ovarian cancer.

Effects of Fermented Herbal Tea Residue on Serum Indices and Fecal Microorganisms of Chuanzhong Black Goats

Herbal tea residues (HTRs) are a by−product of herbal tea processing that contains many nutrients and active substances but are often discarded as waste. The main aim of the present study was to determine the food safety of HTRs and lay the foundation for its use as a novel feed resource for goats. In this study, discarded HTRs were fermented and then fed to 33 female Chuanzhong black goats (121 ± 4.00 days) with similar weight (9.33 ± 0.95 kg) and genetic background, which were divided into three groups (fermented herbal tea residue (FHTR) replacement of 0%, 15% and 30% of the forage component of the diet). The feeding experiment lasted for 35 days. On day 35, our findings indicated that the concentrations of hydroxyl radicals and urea increased linearly, and the concentrations of glutathione peroxidase increased quadratically with the increase in FHTR. In addition, we investigated the fecal microbiota composition of eight Chuanzhong black goats in the control, 15% and 30% FHTR replacement groups and found that FHTR had no remarkable effect on the fecal microbiota composition. Results indicated that goat physiological functions remained stable after FHTR was added to the diet.

Proteomic Analysis of Protective Effects of Epimedium Flavonoids against Ethanol-Induced Toxicity in Retinoic Acid-Treated SH-SY5Y Cells

Alcohol (ethanol) is one of the most common addictive psychoactive substances in the world, and alcoholism may result in harmful effects on human health, especially on the nervous system. Flavonoids are regarded as the main active constituent in Epimedium, which has been used to cure some nervous system diseases such as amnesia for over 1000 years. Here, the protective effects of Epimedium flavonoids against ethanol-induced toxicity in retinoic acid (RA)-treated SH-SY5Y cells were investigated. Their mechanism was explored by a label-free proteomic approach combined with bioinformatic analysis for the first time. The results showed that ethanol treatment decreased cell viability by 18%, whereas the viability increased significantly after intervention with Epimedium flavonoids (p < 0.01). According to proteomic and bioinformatic analyses, hundreds of differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were identified and classified as biological process (GO_BP), cellular component (GO_CC) and molecular function (GO_MF). Among them, GO_MF of DEPs, especially molecular function relevant to G proteins, greatly changed in SH-SY5Y cells pretreated by Epimedium flavonoids. In the alcoholism pathway, the expression of the Gi protein was up-regulated under the influence of ethanol, whereas Epimedium flavonoids could reverse the expression profile, both of which were validated by Western blot assay. In conclusion, Gi protein seemed to be an important factor in the alcoholism pathway to suppress the ethanol-induced toxicity of SH-SY5Y cells. These findings suggest a protective potential of Epimedium flavonoids against ethanol-induced toxicity to neurons via the regulation of Gi protein function.

Neuroprotective Effects of Lycium barbarum Berry on Neurobehavioral Changes and Neuronal Loss in the Hippocampus of Mice Exposed to Acute Ionizing Radiation

Background: Brain exposure to ionizing radiation during the radiotherapy of brain tumor or metastasis of peripheral cancer cells to the brain has resulted in cognitive dysfunction by reducing neurogenesis in hippocampus. The water extract of Lycium barbarum berry (Lyc), containing water-soluble Lycium barbarum polysaccharides and flavonoids, can protect the neuronal injury by reducing oxidative stress and suppressing neuroinflammation.

Reseach Design: To demonstrate the long-term radioprotective effect of Lyc, we evaluated the neurobehavioral alterations and the numbers of NeuN, calbindin (CB), and parvalbumin (PV) immunopositive hippocampal neurons in BALB/c mice after acute 5.5 Gy radiation with/without oral administration of Lyc at the dosage of 10 g/kg daily for 4 weeks.

Results: The results showed that Lyc could improve irradiation-induced animal weight loss, depressive behaviors, spatial memory impairment, and hippocampal neuron loss. Immunohistochemistry study demonstrated that the loss of NeuN-immunopositive neuron in the hilus of the dentate gyrus, CB-immunopositive neuron in CA1 strata radiatum, lacunosum moleculare and oriens, and PV-positive neuron in CA1 stratum pyramidum and stratum granulosum of the dentate gyrus after irradiation were significantly improved by Lyc treatment.

Conclusion: The neuroprotective effect of Lyc on those hippocampal neurons may benefit the configuration of learning related neuronal networks and then improve radiation induced neurobehavioral changes such as cognitive impairment and depression. It suggests that Lycium barbarum berry may be an alternative food supplement to prevent radiation-induced neuron loss and neuropsychological disorders.

Transcriptomic responses to drought stress among natural populations provide insights into local adaptation of weeping forsythia

BACKGROUND

Understanding the genetic mechanisms of local adaptation is an important emerging topic in molecular ecology and evolutionary biology.

RESULTS

Here, we identify the physiological changes and differential expression of genes among different weeping forsythia populations under drought stress in common garden experiments. Physiological results showed that HBWZ might have higher drought tolerance among four populations. RNA-seq results showed that significant differential expression in the genes responding to the synthesis of flavonoids, aromatic substances, aromatic amino acids, oxidation-reduction process, and transmembrane transport occured among four populations. By further reanalysis of results of previous studies, sequence differentiation was found in the genes related to the synthesis of aromatic substances among different weeping forsythia populations.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, our study supports the hypothesis that the dual differentiation in gene efficiency and expression increases among populations in response to heterogeneous environments and is an important evolutionary process of local adaptation. Here, we proposed a new working model of local adaptation of weeping forsythia populations under different intensities of drought stress, which provides new insights for understanding the genetic mechanisms of local adaptation for non-model species.

Dietary Anti-Aging Polyphenols and Potential Mechanisms

For years, the consumption of a diet rich in fruits and vegetables has been considered healthy, increasing longevity, and decreasing morbidities. With the assistance of basic research investigating the potential mechanisms, it has become clear that the beneficial effects of plant-based foods are mainly due to the large amount of bioactive phenolic compounds contained. Indeed, substantial dietary intervention studies in humans have supported that the supplementation of polyphenols have various health-promoting effects, especially in the elderly population. In vitro examinations on the anti-aging mechanisms of polyphenols have been widely performed, using different types of natural and synthetic phenolic compounds. The aim of this review is to critically evaluate the experimental evidence demonstrating the beneficial effects of polyphenols on aging-related diseases. We highlight the potential anti-aging mechanisms of polyphenols, including antioxidant signaling, preventing cellular senescence, targeting microRNA, influencing NO bioavailability, and promoting mitochondrial function. While the trends on utilizing polyphenols in preventing aging-related disorders are getting growing attention, we suggest the exploration of the beneficial effects of the combination of multiple polyphenols or polyphenol-rich foods, as this would be more physiologically relevant to daily life.

Icariin enhances AMP-activated protein kinase and prevents high fructose and high salt-induced metabolic syndrome in rats

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is an increasing health threat and often leads to cardiovascular complications. The aim of this study was to evaluate icariin’s ability to combat MetS induced in rats and outline the involved mechanisms of action. Rats were grouped in four batches. The controls received a regular diet and water. MetS was induced in the remaining three groups using a high-salt high-fructose diet. Groups 1 and 2 were given daily doses of saline, while Groups 3 and 4 received 25 and 50 mg/kg icariin, respectively, for 12 weeks in total. The experimental protocol was carried out for 12 weeks consecutively. Icariin significantly decreased body mass index (BMI), adiposity index and body weight. Further, icariin protected against dyslipidemia, hyperglycemia, and hyperinsulinemia and improved insulin resistance as given by the homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) values. Icariin guarded against the rise in serum interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α). In addition, it significantly inhibited the decrease in mRNA expression of glucose transporter type 4 (GLUT4) and liver kinase B1 (LKB1). These effects were accompanied by decreased liver content of nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB) and enhanced serum levels of phosphorylated 5ʹ-adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (p-AMPK). Further, icariin significantly increased p-AMPK/AMPK ratio in liver tissues. Conclusively, icariin offers protection in experimentally induced MetS, partially due to AMPK activation.