Evaluation of in vitro activity of herbal formula Di Er You and herb Coptis against bacteria isolated from dogs with otitis externa

OBJECTIVE

To determine the in vitro activity of the herbal formula Di Er You (DEY) and the single-herb Coptis against bacteria cultured from dogs with otitis externa.

ANIMALS

32 client-owned dogs diagnosed with otitis externa.

METHODS

A sample of otic debris from each patient was collected and plated onto a fresh Sheep's Blood Agar plate in the hospital. After bacterial growth was confirmed, 4 wells were created, numbered randomly, and treated with saline (placebo), DEY, Coptis, and Zymox Otic Enzymatic Solution with 1% Hydrocortisone (Zymox). After 24 hours of incubation, the diameter of the zone of inhibition (dZOI) of each treatment was measured and recorded, and compared among treatments. A sample of the bacterial colonies grown was submitted to an outside lab for bacterial identification.

RESULTS

The mean ± SD dZOI values for saline, DEY, Coptis, and Zymox treated wells were 0.25 ± 1.41, 12.47 ± 3.92, 14.25 ± 7.12, and 3.22 ± 5.12, respectively. Post hoc multiple comparisons test revealed that (1) saline-treated wells had significantly smaller dZOI values than the other 3 groups (all P < .001), (2) Zymox treated wells had significantly smaller dZOI values than either herbal treated groups (both P < .001), and (3) DEY treated wells had significantly smaller dZOI values than those treated with Coptis (P = .0042).

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

The results from this in vitro study suggested that both DEY and Coptis could be effective treatments in inhibiting the growth of bacteria in dogs with otitis externa. Prospective randomized controlled clinical trials are warranted to confirm these findings.

TCMFP: a novel herbal formula prediction method based on network target's score integrated with semi-supervised learning genetic algorithms

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has accumulated thousands years of knowledge in herbal therapy, but the use of herbal formulas is still characterized by reliance on personal experience. Due to the complex mechanism of herbal actions, it is challenging to discover effective herbal formulas for diseases by integrating the traditional experiences and modern pharmacological mechanisms of multi-target interactions. In this study, we propose a herbal formula prediction approach (TCMFP) combined therapy experience of TCM, artificial intelligence and network science algorithms to screen optimal herbal formula for diseases efficiently, which integrates a herb score (Hscore) based on the importance of network targets, a pair score (Pscore) based on empirical learning and herbal formula predictive score (FmapScore) based on intelligent optimization and genetic algorithm. The validity of Hscore, Pscore and FmapScore was verified by functional similarity and network topological evaluation. Moreover, TCMFP was used successfully to generate herbal formulae for three diseases, i.e. the Alzheimer's disease, asthma and atherosclerosis. Functional enrichment and network analysis indicates the efficacy of targets for the predicted optimal herbal formula. The proposed TCMFP may provides a new strategy for the optimization of herbal formula, TCM herbs therapy and drug development.

The Herbal Medicine Suanzaoren (Ziziphi Spinosae Semen) for Sleep Quality Improvements: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Sleep disturbances are common and bothersome among cancer and noncancer populations. Suanzaoren (Ziziphi Spinosae Semen) is commonly used to improve sleep, yet its efficacy and safety are unclear.

METHODS

We systematically searched PubMed, Cochrane Library, and EMBASE from inception through October 5, 2021, to identify randomized trials of Suanzaoren. We included randomized trials comparing Suanzaoren to placebo, medications, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), or usual care for improving sleep outcomes in cancer and noncancer patients with insomnia or sleep disturbance. We performed a risk of bias analysis following Cochrane guidelines. Depending on heterogeneity, we pooled studies with similar comparators using fixed- and random-effects models.

RESULTS

We included participants with insomnia disorder (N = 785) or sleep disturbance (N = 120) from 9 trials. Compared with placebo, Suanzaoren led to significant subjective sleep quality improvements in participants with insomnia and patients with sleep disturbance combined (standard mean difference -0.58, 95% CI -1.04, -0.11; P < .01); Compared with benzodiazepines or CBT, Suanzaoren was associated with a significant decrease in insomnia severity (mean difference -2.68 points, 95% CI -5.50, -0.22; P = .03) at 4 weeks in the general population and cancer patients. The long-term effects of Suanzaoren were mixed among trials. Suanzaoren did not increase the incidence of major adverse events. The placebo-controlled studies had a low risk of bias.

CONCLUSION

Suanzaoren is associated with short-term patient-reported sleep quality improvements among individuals with insomnia or sleep disturbance. Due to the small sample size and variable study quality, the clinical benefits and harms of Suanzaoren, particularly in the long term, should be further assessed in a sufficiently powered randomized trial.

REGISTRATION

PROSPERO CRD42021281943.

Combined effect of traditional Chinese herbal-based formulations Jing Si herbal tea and Jing Si nasal drop inhibits adhesion and transmission of SARS-CoV2 in diabetic SKH-1 mice

Multiple studies show increased severity of SARS-CoV2-infection in patients with comorbidities such as hypertension and diabetes. In this study, we have prepared two herbal-based formulations, a pleiotropic herbal drink (Jin Si Herbal Tea, JHT) and a nasal drop (Jin Si nasal drop, JND), to provide preventive care against SARS-CoV2 infection. The effect of JHT and JND was determined in SARS-CoV2-S-pseudotyped lentivirus-infected bronchial and colorectal cell lines and in SKH-1 mouse models. For preliminary studies, ACE2 receptor abundant bronchial (Calu-3) and colorectal cells (Caco-2) were used to determine the effect of JHT and JND on the host entry of various variants of SARS-CoV2-S-pseudotyped lentivirus. A series of experiments were performed to understand the infection rate in SKH-1 mice (6 weeks old, n = 9), find the effective dosage of JHT and JND, and determine the combination effect of JHT and JND on the entry and adhesion of various variant SARS-CoV2-S-pseudotyped lentiviruses, which included highly transmissible delta and gamma mutants. Furthermore, the effect of combined JHT and JND was determined on diabetes-induced SKH-1 mice against the comorbidity-associated intense viral entry and accumulation. In addition, the effect of combined JHT and JND administration on viral transmission from infected SKH-1 mice to uninfected cage mate mice was determined. The results showed that both JHT and JND were effective in alleviating the viral entry and accumulation in the thorax and the abdominal area. While JHT showed a dose-dependent decrease in the viral load, JND showed early inhibition of viral entry from day 1 of the infection. Combined administration of 48.66 mg of JHT and 20 µL of JND showed rapid reduction in the viral entry and reduced the viral load (97-99%) in the infected mice within 3 days of treatment. Moreover, 16.22 mg of JHT and 20 µL JND reduced the viral infection in STZ-induced diabetic SKH-1 mice. Interestingly, combined JHT and JND also inhibited viral transmission among cage mates. The results, therefore, showed that combined administration of JHT and JND is a novel and an efficient strategy to potentially prevent SARS-CoV2 infection.

Gastroprotective and Antioxidative Effects of the Traditional Thai Polyherbal Formula Phy-Blica-D against Ethanol-Induced Gastric Ulcers in Rats

Phy-Blica-D is a traditional Thai polyherbal formula that has reduced oxidative stress in non-communicable diseases. However, evidence supporting the gastroprotective effects of Phy-Blica-D has not been previously reported. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the gastroprotective effects of Phy-Blica-D against gastric ulcers in rats and investigate the potential underlying mechanism. To estimate the possible mechanisms of action, we examined the levels of oxidative stress markers, such as reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA), as well as antioxidant enzymes, including catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione (GSH). According to our results, rats treated with only 80% ethanol (vehicle group) exhibited significant increases in their ulcer area and ulcer index (UI). Moreover, the levels of ROS and MDA markedly increased in the vehicle group compared with the normal control group. Daily oral administration of Phy-Blica-D (500 and 1000 mg/kg) for 7 days not only significantly decreased the ulcer area and UI, but also remarkably decreased the ROS and MDA levels in gastric tissue. Gastric ulcers induced by ethanol had significantly decreased antioxidant enzyme activities (CAT and SOD) and non-enzymatic antioxidant (GSH), whereas pretreatment with Phy-Blica-D significantly improved the activities of CAT, SOD, and GSH. Moreover, after exposure to ethanol, the rats exhibited a significantly increased level of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), which was reduced after treatment with Phy-Blica-D. These findings suggest that Phy-Blica-D potentially exerts its gastroprotective effects by suppressing oxidative stress and stimulating antioxidant enzymes, which is one of the causes of destruction of cell membranes, and it is involved in the pathogenesis of acute gastric ulcers induced by ethanol.

Yeokwisan, a Standardized Herbal Formula, Enhances Gastric Emptying via Modulation of the Ghrelin Pathway in a Loperamide-induced Functional Dyspepsia Mouse Model

Background: Yeokwisan, a standardized herbal formula, has exhibited clinical benefit for patients suffering from refractory functional dyspepsia (FD) in Korea since 2016. However, data about the mechanism of action of this formula are yet not available. Aim of the study: To evaluate and explore the effects of Yeokwisan on gastric emptying, a major symptom of functional dyspepsia, and its underlying mechanisms of action using a mouse model. Materials and methods: BALB/C mice were pretreated with Yeokwisan (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg, po) or mosapride (3 mg/kg, po) for 5 days and then treated with loperamide (10 mg/kg, ip) after 20 h of fasting. A solution of 0.05% phenol red (500 μL) or diet of 5% charcoal (200 μL) was orally administered, followed by assessment of gastric emptying or intestinal transit. Plasma acyl-ghrelin (ELISA), C-kit (immunofluorescence and western blotting), nNOS (western blotting) and gastric contraction- and ghrelin-related gene/protein expression levels were examined in stomach and small intestine tissues. Results: Loperamide injection substantially delayed gastric emptying, while Yeokwisan pretreatment (especially 200 and 400 mg/kg Yeokwisan) significantly attenuated this peristaltic dysfunction, as evidenced by the quantity of phenol red retained in the stomach (p < 0.05 or 0.01) and stomach weight (p < 0.05 or 0.01). The levels of plasma acyl-ghrelin and expression of gastric ghrelin-related genes, such as growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHSR), ghrelin-O-acyltransferase (GOAT), adrenergic receptor β1 (ADRB1) and somatostatin receptor (SSTR), were significantly normalized (p < 0.05 or 0.01) by Yeokwisan (400 mg/kg). Yeokwisan (400 mg/kg) significantly tempered the loperamide-induced alterations in the c-kit and nNOS levels (p < 0.01) as well as the expression of contraction- and ghrelin-related genes, such as 5-HT4 receptor (5-HT4R), anoctamin-1 (ANO1), ryanodine receptor 3 (RYR3) and smooth muscle myosin light chain kinase (smMLCK), in the stomach, but not in the small intestine. Conclusion: The present results showed the clinical relevance of Yeokwisan, in treating FD, especially in promoting gastric emptying but not small intestinal transit. The main mechanisms corresponding to these effects may involve the modulation of the ghrelin pathway and activation of interstitial cells of Cajal in stomach tissue.

A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials of a traditional Chinese medicine prescription, modified RunChang-Tang, in treating functional constipation

BACKGROUND

Modified Runchang-Tang (MRCT), a Chinese herbal medicine, is widely used to treat functional constipation (FC), which is a common digestive system disease. However, its efficacy has not been evaluated systematically and objectively. Thus, a meta-analysis was conducted to assess the efficacy and safety of MRCT for treating functional constipation.

METHODS

We searched for relevant publications from Embase, Medline, The Cochrane Library, Chinese Biomedical Literature Database, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Chinese Scientific Journals Database, and Wanfang Data for relevant literature. The timeframe of retrieval was set from the founding date of each database to July 15, 2020.

RESULT

A total of 26 randomized controlled trials with 2103 individuals were included in this meta-analysis. All trials were conducted in mainland China and were written in Chinese. The results showed that MRCT monotherapy provided better symptom relief in FC patients compared to prokinetic agent monotherapy (odds ratio, [OR] = 4.06), osmotic laxatives (OR = 4.39) and stimulant laxatives (OR = 2.99). Additionally, there were no obvious adverse effects in MRCT group compared with control group.

CONCLUSION

MRCT treatment is an efficient and safe treatment for FC. However, considering the limitations of this study, further well-designed randomized controlled trials are required to validate this conclusion.

Assessment of Phytochemicals and Herbal Formula for the Treatment of Depression through Metabolomics

Depression is a widespread and persistent psychiatric disease. Due to various side effects and no curative treatments of conventional antidepressant drugs, botanical medicines have attracted considerable attention as a complementary and alternative approach. The pathogenesis of depression is quite complicated and unclear. Metabolomics is a promising new technique for the discovery of novel biomarkers for exploring the potential mechanisms of diverse diseases and assessing the therapeutic effects of drugs. In this article, we systematically reviewed the study of botanical medicine for the treatment of depression using metabolomics over a period from 2010 to 2019. Additionally, we summarized the potential biomarkers and metabolic pathways associated with herbal medicine treatment for depression. Through a comprehensive evaluation of herbal medicine as novel antidepressants and understanding of their pharmacomechanisms, a new perspective on expanding the application of botanical medicines for the treatment of depression is provided.

Exploring the Mechanism of Gyejibokryeong-hwan against Atherosclerosis Using Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking

Gyejibokryeong-hwan (GBH) is a traditional formula comprised of five herbal medicines that is frequently used to treat blood stasis and related complex multifactorial disorders such as atherosclerosis. The present study used network pharmacology and molecular docking simulations to clarify the effect and mechanism of the components of GBH. Active compounds were selected using Oriental Medicine Advanced Searching Integrated System (OASIS) and the Traditional Chinese Medicine System Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform (TCMSP), and target genes linked to the selected components were retrieved using Search Tool for Interacting Chemicals (STITCH) and GeneCards. Functional analysis of potential target genes was performed through the Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery (DAVID) database and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway, and molecular docking confirmed the correlation between five core compounds (quercetin, kaempferol, baicalein, ellagic acid, and baicalin) and six potential target genes (AKT1, CASP3, MAPK1, MAPK3, NOS2, and PTGS2). Molecular docking studies indicated that quercetin strongly interacted with six potential target proteins. Thus, these potential target proteins were closely related to TNF, HIF-1, FoxO, and PI3K-Akt signal pathways, suggesting that these factors and pathways may mediate the beneficial effects of GBH on atherosclerosis. Our results identify target genes and pathways that may mediate the clinical effects of the compounds contained within GBH on atherosclerosis.

Safety and efficacy of an herbal formula, Gwakhyangjeonggi-san on atopic dermatitis with gastrointestinal symptoms: Protocol for a randomized controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

Gwakhyangjeonggi-san (GJS) is an herbal formula with anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties that is broadly used to treat a wide range of diseases including gastrointestinal disorders and allergic diseases. There have been several clinical studies conducted on its effects on atopic dermatitis (AD). So far, no randomized controlled trials have been conducted. Here, we describe the protocol for a randomized controlled study designed to investigate the efficacy and safety of GJS for treating patients with AD that have gastrointestinal symptoms.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group, clinical trial has been designed to investigate the clinical efficacy and safety of GJS on patients with AD that have gastrointestinal symptoms. A total of 58 participants with AD will be recruited and randomly allocated to the GJS or placebo group in a 1:1 ratio. The participants will be administered GJS or placebo granules 3 times a day for 8 weeks. Data will be collected from the participants at baseline and after 4 and 8 weeks. The primary outcome measure will be the mean change in the SCORing of Atopic Dermatitis (SCORAD) index from baseline to 8 weeks. The secondary outcomes will include the eczema area and severity index (EASI), dermatology life quality index (DLQI), EuroQoL 5 dimensions 5 levels (EQ-5D-5L), and immunological factors. The Korean Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (KGSRS), Nepean Dyspepsia Index will also be obtained for assessing the gastrointestinal status.

DISCUSSION

The findings of this study are expected to provide evidence on the safety and effectiveness of GJS and for treating patients with AD that have gastrointestinal symptoms. Additionally, the study will explore the mechanism of GJS action via gut microbiome. This study will provide new perspectives on approaching treatment for AD.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The study protocol was approved by the Institutional Review Board of Kyung Hee University Korean Medicine Hospital at Gangdong (KHNMCOH2019-06-002-001).

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

This study has been registered at the Korean National Clinical Trial Registry, Clinical Research Information Service (KCT0004299).

Changes of Anti-tuberculosis Herbs Formula During Past Three Decades in Contrast to Ancient Ones

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the evolution of herbal medicine in treating tuberculosis (TB) and encourage anti-TB drug discovery and development.

METHODS

In this study, 477 ancient traditional Chinese medicine formulae were collected from the Dictionary of Traditional Chinese Medicine Prescriptions and 172 modern Chinese medicine formulae (from 1986 to 2016) were collected by searching 4 databases: WanFang Data Knowledge Service Platform, China National Knowledge Infrastructure Database (CNKI), China Science and Technology Journal Database (VIP) and Chinese Bio-medical Literature and Retrieval System (SinoMed) in Chinese. We restricted the search to publications in Chinese. Further data analysis was done using the Traditional Chinese Medicine Inheritance Support System version 2 Software.

RESULTS

There were 425 herbs in the 477 ancient formulae and 257 herbs in the 172 modern formulae. Half of the top 30 herbs were shared by both modern and ancient prescriptions. They are Radix Ophiopogonis, Astragalus membranaceus, Fritillaria cirrhosa, Dried rehmannia glutinosa, Poria cocos, Angelica sinensis, Prepared rehmannia glutinosa, Platycodon Root, Radix paeoniae alba, Schisandra chinensis, Bighead atractylodes rhizome, Rhizoma anemarrhenae, Cortex lycii radicis and Radix Scutellariae. Only two groups of herbs with a high correlation coefficient were found in both modern and ancient prescriptions, the Dried rehmannia glutinosa with Radix ophiopogonis, and Radix ophiopogonis with Prepared rehmannia glutinosa. There were 9 and 15 core herb combinations in modern and ancient prescriptions, respectively, but no one was found simutaniously in both modern and ancient prescriptions.

CONCLUSIONS

Although there were wide variations in the herb groups and herb combinations in the formulae, half of the top 30 herbs were found in both modern and ancient prescriptions. The core herb combinations in modern and ancient prescriptions could help us to improve the priscription for treatment of TB.

Kleeb Bua Daeng, a Thai Traditional Herbal Formula, Ameliorated Unpredictable Chronic Mild Stress-Induced Cognitive Impairment in ICR Mice

Thai traditional herbal formula ''Kleeb Bua Daeng (KBD)''consists of a 1:1:1 ratio (dry weight) of three medicinal plants: Piper nigrum fruit, the aerial part of Centella asiatica and the petals of Nelumbo nucifera. Oral administration of KBD to unpredictable chronic mild stress (UCMS) mice significantly improved their cognitive function caused by chronic mild stress. Daily administration of KBD significantly decreased the serum corticosterone (CORT) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels but increased the catalase and superoxide dismutase activities in both frontal cortex and hippocampus. The effects of KBD were similar to those caused by oral administration of vitamin E. HPLC analysis of the KBD extract revealed the presence of piperine, madecassoside, asiaticoside, luteolin-7-O-glucoside, rutin, kaempferol-3-glucoside, quercetin, kaempferol and ferulic acid as major constituents.

Chinese Herbal Formula (CHF03) Attenuates Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) Through Inhibiting Lipogenesis and Anti-Oxidation Mechanisms

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a hepatic ailment with a rapidly increasing incidence in the human population due largely to dietary hyper nutrition and subsequent obesity. Discovering effective natural compounds and herbs against NAFLD can provide alternative and complementary medical treatments to current chemical pharmaceuticals. In this study, ICR male mice were fed a high-fat diet (HFD) in vivo and the AML12 cells were treated with palmitic acid (PA) in vitro. We explore the protective effect and potential mechanism of Chinese Herbal Formula (CHF03) against NAFLD by HE staining, transmission Electron Microscopy assay, Western blotting, and gene expression. In vivo, oxidative stress markers (GSH, GSH-px, MDA, SOD, and CAT) confirmed that CHF03 alleviated oxidative stress and abundance of NF-κB proteins indicating a reduction in inflammation and oxidative stress. The lower protein abundance of ACACA and FASN indicated a preventive effect on lipogenesis. Histological and ultrastructural observations revealed that CHF03 inhibited NAFLD. Expression of Srebf1, Fasn, and Acaca, which are associated with lipogenesis, were downregulated. In vitro, genes and proteins are expressed in a dose-dependent manner, consistent with those in the liver. CHF03 inhibited lipid accumulation and expression of NF-κB, nuclear transfer, and transcriptional activity in AML12 cells. The CHF03 might have a beneficial role in the prevention of hepatic steatosis by altering the expression of lipogenic genes and attenuating oxidative stress.

Treatment with the herbal formulation Eefooton slows the progression of chronic kidney disease: A case report

RATIONALE

Patients with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) receiving maintenance dialysis experience an overall burden of physical and emotional symptoms. However, there were limited alternative treatments to dialysis.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 79-year-old woman with chronic kidney disease stage 5 (CKD5) and gout had refused to be on dialysis. She also had hypoglycemia, hypertension, and heart disease.

DIAGNOSES

The patient had received the ultrasonography, the renal biopsy and biochemical examinations, confirming the diagnosis of renal impairment, primary hypertension, and chronic nephritic syndrome with unspecified morphologic changes.

INTERVENTIONS

She was administered with 20 mL Eefooton (a liquid formula of herbal extracts: Astragalus membranaceus 3 g, Codonopsis pilosula 3 g, Ligustrum lucidum 3 g, Panax quinquefolius 1.3 g, and Rhodiola sacra 1.3 g) orally twice a day for 6 months in addition to her regular medications.

OUTCOMES

The patient was followed up for 3 months after the completion of the Eefooton adjuvant treatment. The patient's renal function was improved, and CKD progression was alleviated. After Eefooton treatment, the sizes of both kidneys in the patient increased by 8% while blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and serum creatinine concentrations were decreased. In addition, further reduction in BUN concentration was observed 2 months posttreatment.

LESSONS

This case demonstrated that Eefooton has potential therapeutic significance in patients with CKD5 who chose conservative treatment over dialysis.

Novel Compound-Target Interactions Prediction for the Herbal Formula Hua-Yu-Qiang-Shen-Tong-Bi-Fang

Herbal formulae have a long history in clinical medicine in Asia. While the complexity of the formulae leads to the complex compound-target interactions and the resultant multi-target therapeutic effects, it is difficult to elucidate the molecular/therapeutic mechanism of action for the many formulae. For example, the Hua-Yu-Qiang-Shen-Tong-Bi-Fang (TBF), an herbal formula of Chinese medicine, has been used for treating rheumatoid arthritis. However, the target information of a great number of compounds from the TBF formula is missing. In this study, we predicted the targets of the compounds from the TBF formula via network analysis and in silico computing. Initially, the information of the phytochemicals contained in the plants of the herbal formula was collected, and subsequently computed to their corresponding fingerprints for the sake of structural similarity calculation. Then a compound structural similarity network infused with available target information was constructed. Five local similarity indices were used and compared for their performance on predicting the potential new targets of the compounds. Finally, the Preferential Attachment Index was selected for it having an area under curve (AUC) of 0.886, which outperforms the other four algorithms in predicting the compound-target interactions. This method could provide a promising direction for identifying the compound-target interactions of herbal formulae in silico.

[Compound traditional Chinese medicine in treatment of diabetes]

Diabetes is a chronic disorder of glucose metabolism characterized by elevated blood glucose levels. With the improvement in living standards and the changes in lifestyle,T2 DM incidence has a dramatic increase in the past decades,bringing a series of public health problems. In the research and development field of diabetic drugs,T1 DM drugs are mainly long-acting sustained-release insulin preparations,whereas T2 DM drugs mainly are based on single target. T2 DM drugs usually have a good anti-hyperglycemic effect,but with side effects for long-term administration. Therefore,the research and development of hypoglycemic drugs focus on formula drugs with multi-component,multi-target and multi-pathway effects. In the similar principle of action,traditional Chinese medicine formula has achieved a good efficacy in the treatment of diabetes,with mild anti-hyperglycemic effects and multiple-component synergistic effects in intervening the pathogenesis of diabetes,including additive effect,synergy effect and toxicity scattering effect. This article mainly reviews clinical trials and mechanisms of action of traditional Chinese medicine formula for the treatment of diabetes,so as to provide a reference to the rational and effective clinical application of traditional Chinese medicine formula in treating diabetes.

A Comprehensive Quality Evaluation Method Based on C30-HPLC and an Analytic Hierarchy Process for the Chinese Herbal Formula, Erzhiwan

The quantitative analysis of multiple indexes remains an important quality evaluation method of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) herbal formulas. The Chinese Pharmacopoeia 2015 only stipulates the content of a single component, specnuezhenide, in Erzhiwan composed of the Fructus Ligustri Lucidi (FLL) powder and aqueous extracts of Herba Ecliptae (HE). To generalize the intrinsic quality of Erzhiwan, a novel C30-HPLC method with good precision, accuracy, and reproducibility was developed for the simultaneous determination of six compounds, including two isomers, and then an analytic hierarchy process was further applied to integrate and discriminate the quality of four samples prepared via different methods. The results of the analysis were in agreement with the antioxidant tests in vitro. This comprehensive strategy could provide a reference and suggestions for the improvement of the quality evaluation method of TCM herbal formulas.

An herbal formula attenuates collagen-induced arthritis via inhibition of JAK2-STAT3 signaling and regulation of Th17 cells in mice

Wenjinghuoluo prescription, a traditional Chinese medicine compound treatment of rheumatoid arthritis characterized by wind-cold-dampness arthralgia, contains five herbs, namely, C. cassia Presl., Cinnamomum cassia Presl., Paeonia lactiflora Pall., Saposhnikovia divaricate (Turcz.) Schischk., and Clematis chinensis Osbeck. We have reported that WJHL could inhibit the production of inflammatory mediators in immune cells. This study explored the effect and mechanism of WJHL on collagen-induced arthritis mice. WJHL could significantly improve clinical arthritic conditions; inhibit bone erosion and osteophyte formation in joints; decrease expression of proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-17); reduce protein expression levels of JAK2, p-JAK2, STAT3, p-STAT3 and gene expression levels of JAK2, STAT3, IL-17A, RORγt mRNA; elevate osteoprotegerin and Foxp3 mRNA levels and lower Th17 cell proportions in splenocytes. Results suggest that WJHL, specifically regulating the JAK2/STAT3 pathway and Th17 cells, may be a promising herbal medicine candidate for the treatment of RA.

Seropharmacological study on osteogenic effects of post-absorption ingredients of an osteoprotective herbal formula

OBJECTIVE

To further investigate the {ptin vitro} effects of an osteoprotective herbal formula "ELP" (Herba Epimedii, Fructus Ligustri Lucidi and Fructus Psoraleae) using seropharmacological approach.

METHODS

Rats were fed with ELP or its individual component herbs for 2 days. The serum containing the postabsorbed ingredients of the herbal items were collected for cell culture using UMR106 cell, RAW264.7 cell and mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) isolated from the bone marrow of the rats. The effects of the herbal-containing serum on cell toxicity were detected by 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay; bromodeoxyuridine assay was conducted to measure the cell proliferation of UMR106 cell and MSC; cell activity was measured using colorimetric method, and mRNA expression of runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and osteopontin (OPN) of UMR106 and MSC as well as matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9), tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) and cathepsin K of RAW264.7 were analyzed using real-time reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction.

RESULTS

ELP and its component serum exhibited no cytotoxic effects on the cells. The ELP-containing serum increased the proliferation of UMR106 cell and MSC by 25.7% and 14.4 %, respectively and the alkaline phosphatase activity of MSC was increased by 42.6%. On the contrary, it inhibited the RAW264.7 cell differentiation by 29.2 %. ELP serum upregulated the Runx2 expression of UMR and MSC by 1.18 fold and 1.27 fold, respectively. It also upregulated ALP and OPN expression in MSC by 1.69- and 2.12-fold, respectively. On the other hand, ELP serum down-regulated MMP-9 and cathepsin K expression of RAW264.7 cell by 0.46- and 0.36-fold, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The serum of the animals fed with ELP contains active ingredients which are effective in promoting osteogenesis and inhibiting osteoclastogenesis.

Ethanol extract of Kilkyung-baeksan, a traditional herbal formula, induces G0/G1 cell cycle arrest in human lung cancer cell lines

Background

Despite current advances in diagnostics and medicines, the incidence of lung cancer is increasing and effective treatment is very challenging. Traditional herbal formulae as well as many herbal plant extracts have been recognized as attractive sources for novel multi-targeted therapy of cancer with minimal side effects.

Methods

The ethanol extract of Kilkyung-baeksan (EE-KKBS) and its component herbs were tested for their ability to inhibit cancer growth in several lung cancer cell lines. The effects of EE-KKBS and ethanol extract of Croton tiglium Linné seed (EE-CT) on cell cycle progression were measured by flow cytometric analysis using propidium iodide staining. Western blot analyses were performed to measure the expression profiles of proteins regulating cell cycle checkpoints.

Results

EE-KKBS inhibited the growth of lung cancer cells after 24–72 hours treatment. Lung cancer cells treated with either EE-KKBS or EE-CT showed strong G0/G1 cell cycle arrest. The expressions of p21 and p27, two key regulators of G1 cell cycle checkpoint, were significantly upregulated upon treatment with EE-KKBS and EE-CT.

Conclusion

EE-KKBS exerted its cytostatic activity through regulating G1 cell cycle checkpoint in lung cancer cells, and this activity is mainly mediated by one of its component herbs, seeds of Croton tiglium. Collectively, our data suggest that EE-KKBS could be a novel candidate for adjuvant therapy for lung cancer.

Bu-Shen-Ning-Xin decoction: inhibition of osteoclastogenesis by abrogation of the RANKL-induced NFATc1 and NF-κB signaling pathways via selective estrogen receptor α

INTRODUCTION

Bu-Shen-Ning-Xin decoction (BSNXD) is a traditional Chinese medicinal composition that has been used as a remedy for postmenopausal osteoporosis, but the mechanisms affecting bone metabolism are not fully understood.

PURPOSE

We investigated the molecular mechanism and signaling pathway underlying the effect of BSNXD on osteoclastogenesis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A postmenopausal osteoporosis animal model generated by ovariectomy was administered BSNXD and drug-derived serum was prepared. An enzyme immunoassay was conducted to measure the 17-β-estradiol (E2) concentration in the drug-derived serum. Bone marrow-derived monocyte/macrophage precursor cells were treated with drug-derived serum, and tartrate-resistance acid phosphatase staining was conducted to observe osteoclastogenesis. A bone resorption assay was performed to analyze the effect on osteoclastic resorptive function. Real-time PCR, flow cytometry, Western blotting, transfection, and luciferase assays were conducted to explore the related mechanism.

RESULTS

E2 was not elevated in BSNXD-derived serum. BSNXD-derived serum suppressed receptor activation of nuclear factor κB ligand (RANKL)-activated osteoclastogenesis in a dose-dependent manner; this effect could be reversed by estrogen receptor α antagonist methyl-piperidino-pyrazole. The serum suppressed RANKL-induced NF-κB transcription and inhibited the accumulation of nuclear factor of activated T-cells, cytoplasmic 1 in osteoclast precursor cells; the inhibitory effect was abolished by methyl-piperidino-pyrazole but not the estrogen receptor β antagonist or androgen receptor antagonist.

CONCLUSION

These results collectively suggest that administration of BSNXD presents inhibitory effects on osteoclast differentiation by abrogating the RANKL-induced nuclear factor of activated T-cells, cytoplasmic 1 and NF-κB signaling pathways downstream of estrogen receptor α, thereby contributing to the inhibitory effect on bone resorption.

Oral treatment with herbal formula B401 alleviates penile toxicity in aging mice with manganism

The present study aims to elucidate the roles of nitric oxide synthase activity, oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in penile toxicity of aging mice associated with excess manganese (Mn) treatment and to investigate the effect of oral treatment with the herbal formula B401 in this respect. ICR strain mice were divided into two groups: the vehicle (sham group) and the B401 (50 mg/kg) group. The mice were orally treated for 5 days; then a high single dose of MnCl₂ (100 mg/kg) was given by intraperitoneal injection to the mice. One day after MnCl₂ treatment, corpora cavernosal tissues of both Mn-treated mice and their controls were simultaneously sampled to examine their immunohistochemical staining and Western blot analysis. Nitric oxide (NO) production, levels of neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), expression levels of factors governing angiogenesis (vascular endothelial growth factor), oxidative stress (catalase, superoxide dismutase 2,4-hydroxynonenal), inflammation (tumor necrosis factor alpha), apoptosis (B-cell lymphoma 2 [Bcl-2], Bcl-2-associated X protein [Bax], cleaved poly(adenosine diphosphate-ribose) polymerase [c-PARP], cytochrome C, caspase-12, and caspase-3) were evaluated in penile corpus cavernosum of the mice. We found that penile toxicity in the mice was enhanced under excess Mn treatment through reduction of NOS activity and increase in oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in the penile cavernous tissue. Furthermore, the penile toxicity in mice with manganism was alleviated by oral B401 treatment through enhancement of both nitric oxide synthesis and angiogenesis, with simultaneous reduction of oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in penile corpus cavernosum. We suggest that the herbal formula B401 may serve as a potential dietotherapeutic supplement for penile toxicity or dysfunction in aging males.

Chinese herbal medicine for bone health

CONTEXT

Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) has been widely used in clinical practice to treat bone disease for thousands of years. They are cost-effective with fewer side effects and are more suitable for long-term use compared with chemically synthesized medicines.

OBJECTIVE

Chinese herbal formula prescribed among the CHMs is safe, and it is an alternative medicine for bone-related diseases such as osteoporosis.

METHODS

Science Direct and Google Scholar were used to search articles published. The input key words were CHM, osteoporosis, Chinese herbal formula, traditional Chinese medicine, single herb, multiple-herbs, and bone health. CHMs (single herb and formula) lacking sufficient proof and evidence in the literature were excluded and only those with high citation were retained.

RESULTS

A brief review was summarized to indicate the application and the potential mechanism of single herb formula and multi-herb formula in treating the common bone-related diseases such as inflammation, fracture, osteopenia, and osteoporosis.

CONCLUSION

In order to ensure safety and efficacy of all these CHMs, the prescriptions with single herb and multi-component formula must be verified and ensured by reliable pharmacological and toxicological methods. Much more effort needs to be done for studying the standardization, safety evaluation, and mechanism exploration of herb formula as well as confirming the compatibility of these herbs which make one.