Radix Rehmanniae Praeparata promoted zebrafish fin regeneration through aryl hydrocarbon receptor-dependent autophagy

HEADINGS ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Rehmanniae Radix Praeparata (RRP), a staple in traditional Chinese medicine, is derived from Rehmannia glutinosa Libosch and is renowned for its wound-healing properties. Despite its clinical prevalence, the molecular mechanisms underlying RRP's wound-healing effects have not been fully elucidated.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This research endeavored to delineate the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the beneficial effects of RRP on wound healing, utilizing a zebrafish model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Zebrafish larvae at 3 days post-fertilization were amputated at the fin and subsequently treated with RRP. The pro-wound healing and regenerative effects of RRP were evaluated through morphological analysis, assessment of cell proliferation and apoptosis, Additionally, mechanistic insights were gained through a comprehensive approach encompassing network pharmacology analysis, cell tracing, RNA-sequencing, CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, and pharmacological inhibition.

RESULTS

Our findings demonstrate that RRP significantly accelerates caudal fin regeneration in zebrafish following injury by suppressing cell apoptosis, promoting cell proliferation, and upregulating the expression of regenerative-related genes. Furthermore, RRP triggers autophagy signals during the regenerative process, which is attenuated by the autophagy inhibitor chloroquine (CQ). Notably, the administration of RRP enhances the expression of ahr1 and ahr2 in the regenerating fin. Genetic knockout of ahr1a, ahr1b, or ahr2 using CRISPR/Cas9, or pharmacological blockade of AHR signals with the antagonist CH-223191, diminishes the regenerative potential of RRP. Remarkably, zebrafish lacking ahr2 completely lose their fin regeneration ability. Additionally, inhibition of AHR signaling suppresses autophagy signaling during fin regeneration.

CONCLUSIONS

This study uncovers that RRP stimulates fin regeneration in zebrafish by inducing AHR signals and, at least partially, activating the autophagy process. These findings provide novel insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying the wound-healing effects of RRP and may pave the way for the development of novel therapeutic strategies.

Compounds from Rehmannia glutinosa and the activity to suppress α-glucosidase

Rehmannia glutinosa was extensively used to control blood sugar in diabetes treatment in tradition Chinese medicine. In the present study, three new compounds, including an iridoid rehmannia A (1) and two ionone rehmannias B-C (7-8), together with fourteen known compounds (2-6 and 9-17), were isolated from the roots of R. glutinosa. The structures of these compounds were determined by physicochemical constants and spectral analysis (1D, 2D-NMR and MS). The effect of 1-17 on α-glucosidase activity was tested in vitro. Compounds 9, 10, and 11 (IC50: 5.0, 3.1, and 6.3 mM) showed moderate activity to suppress α-glucosidase relative to acarbose (IC50 = 3.0 mM). The findings provided some new insights to understand the hypoglycemic effect of R. glutinosa and the development towards the α-glucosidase inhibitor drugs.

Five new eremophilane-type sesquiterpenes from the fresh roots of Rehmannia glutinosa

Five undescribed eremophilane-type sesquiterpenes, remophilanetriols E-I (1-5), along with seven known compounds (6-12) were isolated from the fresh roots of Rehmannia glutinosa. Their structures were characterized by extensive spectroscopic data analysis and their absolute configurations were determined by comparing their calculated electronic circular dichroism (ECD) spectra and experimental ECD spectra. The anti-pulmonary fibrosis activities of all compounds were evaluated in vitro by MTT methods, and compounds 2, 8, 10, and 12 exhibited excellent anti-pulmonary fibrosis activities. In addition, compound 2 can reduce the levels of ROS and apoptosis in TGF-β1-induced BEAS-2B cells.

Ten cyclopentanoid monoterpenes from the whole plant of Rehmannia piasezkii maxim

Ten new cyclopentanoid monoterpenes (1-10) were isolated from the whole plant of Rehmannia piasezkii. The structures of these compounds were elucidated based on spectroscopic data analysis. In in-vitro assays, compounds 3, 7, and 9 exhibited weak hepatoprotective activities against APAP-induced HepG2 cell damage. Compound 9 exhibited protective effect on hapassocin carbon tetrachloride model.

Catalpol attenuates ischemic stroke by promoting neurogenesis and angiogenesis via the SDF-1α/CXCR4 pathway

BACKGROUND

Stroke is a leading cause of disability and death worldwide. Currently, there is a lack of clinically effective treatments for the brain damage following ischemic stroke. Catalpol is a bioactive compound derived from the traditional Chinese medicine Rehmannia glutinosa and shown to be protective in various neurological diseases. However, the potential roles of catalpol against ischemic stroke are still not completely clear.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to further elucidate the protective effects of catalpol against ischemic stroke.

METHODS

A rat permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion (pMCAO) and oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD) model was established to assess the effect of catalpol in vivo and in vitro, respectively. Behavioral tests were used to examine the effects of catalpol on neurological function of ischemic rats. Immunostaining was performed to evaluate the proliferation, migration and differentiation of neural stem cells (NSCs) as well as the angiogenesis in each group. The protein level of related molecules was detected by western-blot. The effects of catalpol on cultured NSCs as well as brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMECs) subjected to OGD in vitro were also examined by similar methods.

RESULTS

Catalpol attenuated the neurological deficits and improved neurological function of ischemic rats. It stimulated the proliferation of NSCs in the subventricular zone (SVZ), promoted their migration to the ischemic cortex and differentiation into neurons or glial cells. At the same time, catalpol increased the cerebral vessels density and the number of proliferating cerebrovascular endothelial cells in the infracted cortex of ischemic rats. The level of SDF-1α and CXCR4 in the ischemic cortex was found to be enhanced by catalpol treatment. Catalpol was also shown to promote the proliferation and migration of cultured NSCs as well as the proliferation of BMECs subjected to OGD insult in vitro. Interestingly, the impact of catalpol on cultured cells was inhibited by CXCR4 inhibitor AMD3100. Moreover, the culture medium of BMECs containing catalpol promoted the proliferation of NSCs, which was also suppressed by AMD3100.

CONCLUSION

Our data demonstrate that catalpol exerts neuroprotective effects by promoting neurogenesis and angiogenesis via the SDF-1α/CXCR4 pathway, suggesting the therapeutic potential of catalpol in treating cerebral ischemia.

Integrated Network Pharmacology and Experimental Validation Approach to Investigate the Mechanisms of Radix Rehmanniae Praeparata - Angelica Sinensis - Radix Achyranthis Bidentatae in Treating Knee Osteoarthritis

Background

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a persistent degenerative condition characterized by the deterioration of cartilage. The Chinese herbal formula Radix Rehmanniae Praeparata- Angelica Sinensis-Radix Achyranthis Bidentatae (RAR) has often been used in effective prescriptions for KOA as the main functional drug, but its underlying mechanism remains unclear. Therefore, network pharmacology and verification experiments were employed to investigate the impact and mode of action of RAR in the treatment of KOA.

Methods

The destabilization of the medial meniscus model (DMM) was utilized to assess the anti-KOA effect of RAR by using gait analysis, micro-computed tomography (Micro-CT), and histology. Primary chondrocytes were extracted from the rib cartilage of a newborn mouse. The protective effects of RAR on OA cells were evaluated using a CCK-8 assay. The antioxidative effect of RAR was determined by measuring reactive oxygen species (ROS), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione (GSH) production. Furthermore, network pharmacology and molecular docking were utilized to propose possible RAR targets for KOA, which were further verified through experiments.

Results

In vivo, RAR significantly ameliorated DMM-induced KOA characteristics, such as subchondral bone sclerosis, cartilage deterioration, gait abnormalities, and the degree of knee swelling. In vitro, RAR stimulated chondrocyte proliferation and the expression of Col2a1, Comp, and Acan. Moreover, RAR treatment significantly reduced ROS accumulation in an OA cell model induced by IL-1β and increased the activity of antioxidant enzymes (SOD and GSH). Network pharmacology analysis combined with molecular docking showed that Mapk1 might be a key therapeutic target. Subsequent research showed that RAR could downregulate Mapk1 mRNA levels in IL-1β-induced chondrocytes and DMM-induced rats.

Conclusion

RAR inhibited extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation and oxidative stress response via the MAPK signaling pathway in KOA, and Mapk1 may be a core target.

High-Performance Thin-Layer Chromatography Coupled with Single Quadrupole: Application the Identification and Differentiation of Rehmanniae Radix and Its Different Processing Products from Raw Materials to Commercial Products

The authentication of ingredients in formulas is crucial yet challenging, particularly for constituents with comparable compositions but vastly divergent efficacy. Rehmanniae Radix and its derivatives are extensively utilized in food supplements, which contain analogous compositions but very distinct effects. Rehmanniae Radix, also a difficult-to-detect herbal ingredient, was chosen as a case to explore a novel HPTLC-QDa MS technique for the identification of herbal ingredients in commercial products. Through systematic condition optimization, including thin layer and mass spectrometry, a stable and reproducible HPTLC-QDa MS method was established, which can simultaneously detect oligosaccharides and iridoids. Rehmannia Radix and its processed products were then analyzed to screen five markers that could distinguish between raw and prepared Rehmannia Radix. An HPTLC-QDa-SIM method was further established for formula detection by using the five markers and validated using homemade prescriptions and negative controls. Finally, this method was applied to detect raw and prepared Rehmannia Radix in 12 commercial functional products and supplements.

Four new iridoid glycosides from the roots of Rehmannia glutinosa

Four new iridoid glycosides (1-4), rehmaglutosides L-O, were isolated from the air-dried roots of Rehmannia glutinosa. Their structures were established from the spectroscopic data obtained and by chemical evidence. The known mellittoside (5) and ajugol (6) were also obtained in the current investigation, and the structure of mellittoside was unequivocally defined using X-ray diffraction data. Compounds 1-6 were tested for their cytotoxicity against five human tumor cell lines and proliferation effects on Lactobacillus Reuteri.

Exploration of the Dynamic Variations of the Characteristic Constituents and the Degradation Products of Catalpol during the Process of Radix Rehmanniae

Radix Rehmanniae (RR), a famous traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) widely employed in nourishing Yin and invigorating the kidney, has three common processing forms in clinical practice, including fresh Radix Rehmanniae (FRR), raw Radix Rehmanniae (RRR), and processed Radix Rehmanniae (PRR). However, until now, there has been less exploration of the dynamic variations in the characteristic constituents and degradation products of catalpol as a representative iridoid glycoside with the highest content in RR during the process from FRR to PRR. In this study, an ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with photodiode array detector (UPLC-PDA) method was successfully established for the simultaneous determination of ten characteristic components to explore their dynamic variations in different processed products of RR. Among them, iridoid glycosides, especially catalpol, exhibited a sharp decrease from RRR to PRR. Then, three degradation products of catalpol were detected under simulated processing conditions (100 °C, pH 4.8 acetate buffer solution), which were isolated and identified as jiofuraldehyde, cataldehyde, and norviburtinal, respectively. Cataldehyde was first reported as a new compound. Moreover, the specificity of norviburtinal in self-made PRR samples was discovered and validated, which was further confirmed by testing in commercially available PRR samples. In conclusion, our study revealed the decrease in iridoid glycosides and the production of new degradation substances during the process from FRR to PRR, which is critical for unveiling the processing mechanism of RR.

Seven new pentasaccharides from the roots of Rehmannia glutinosa

Seven new pentasaccharides (1-7), rehmaglupentasaccharides A-G, were isolated from the air-dried roots of Rehmannia glutinosa. Their structures were established from the spectroscopic data obtained and by chemical evidence. The known verbascose (8) and stachyose (9) were also obtained in the current investigation, and the structure of stachyose was unequivocally defined using X-ray diffraction data. Compounds 1-9 were tested for their cytotoxicity against five human tumor cell lines, influence on dopamine receptor activation, and proliferation effects against Lactobacillus reuteri.

Anti-aging activities of Rehmannia glutinosa Libosch. crude polysaccharide in Caenorhabditis elegans based on gut microbiota and metabonomic analysis

Aging is a degenerative progress, accompanied by oxidative damage, metabolic disorders and intestinal flora imbalance. Natural macromolecular polysaccharides have shown excellent anti-aging and antioxidant properties, while maintaining metabolic and intestinal homeostasis. The molecular weight, monosaccharide composition, infrared spectrum and other chemical structure information of four Rehmannia glutinosa polysaccharides (RG50, RG70, RG90, RGB) were determined, and their free radical scavenging ability was assessed. Molecular weight and monosaccharide composition analysis exhibited that RG50 (2-72 kDa), RG70 (3.2-37 kDa), RG70 (3-42 kDa), and RGB (3.1-180 kDa) were heteropolysaccharide with significant different monosaccharide species and molar ratios. We found that RG70 had the best antioxidant activity in vitro and RG70 could enhance the antioxidant enzyme system of Caenorhabditis elegans, diminished lipofuscin and reactive oxygen species levels, up-regulate the expression of daf-16, skn-1 and their downstream genes, and down-regulate the expression of age-1. Metabolomics results showed that RG70 mainly influenced glycine, serine and threonine metabolism and citric acid cycle. 16S rRNA sequencing showed that RG70 significantly up-regulated the abundance of Lachnospiraceae_NK4B4_group, which were positively correlated with amino acid metabolism and energy cycling. These results suggest that RG70 may delay aging by enhancing antioxidant effects, affecting probiotics and regulating key metabolic pathways.

Identification of raffinose family oligosaccharides in processed Rehmannia glutinosa Libosch using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry image combined with machine learning

RATIONALE

Currently, research on oligosaccharides primarily focuses on the physiological activity and function, with a few studies elaborating on the spatial distribution characterization and variation in the processing of Rehmannia glutinosa Libosch. Thus, imaging the spatial distributions and dynamic changes in oligosaccharides during the steaming process is significant for characterizing the metabolic networks of R. glutinosa. It will be beneficial to characterize the impact of steaming on the active ingredients and distribution patterns in different parts of the plant.

METHODS

A highly sensitive matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry image (MALDI-MSI) method was used to visualize the spatial distribution of oligosaccharides in processed R. glutinosa. Furthermore, machine learning was used to distinguish the processed R. glutinosa samples obtained under different steaming conditions.

RESULTS

Imaging results showed that the oligosaccharides in the fresh R. glutinosa were mainly distributed in the cortex and xylem. As steaming progressed, the tetra- and pentasaccharides were hydrolyzed and diffused gradually into the tissue section. MALDI-MS profiling combined with machine learning was used to identify the processed R. glutinosa samples accurately at different steaming intervals. Eight algorithms were used to build classification machine learning models, which were evaluated for accuracy, precision, recall, and F1 score. The linear discriminant analysis and random forest models performed the best, with prediction accuracies of 0.98 and 0.97, respectively, and thus can be considered for identifying the steaming durations of R. glutinosa.

CONCLUSIONS

MALDI-MSI combined with machine learning can be used to visualize the distribution of oligosaccharides and identify the processed samples after steaming for different durations. This can enhance our understanding of the metabolic changes that occur during the steaming process of R. glutinosa; meanwhile, it is expected to provide a theoretical reference for the standardization and modernization of processing in the field of medicinal plants.

Purification and structural analysis of a novel polysaccharide from Rehmannia Radix Praeparata

In this paper, the purification, structure, and antioxidant activity of Rehmannia Radix Praeparata polysaccharide (RRPP) were studied. The RRPP was separated using DEAE-52 cellulose and Sephadex G-100. The RRPP consisted of xylose, glucose, rhamnose, galactose, and mannose in ratios of 10.64:5.58:3.52:1.39:1.0. No protein was detected in the RRPP fraction, and the molecular weight of RRPP was about 1.75 × 106  Da. The basic skeleton information was obtained using periodic acid oxidation-Smith degradation, and RRPP contained 1→, 1 → 2, 1 → 3, 1 → 4, 1 → 2,6, 1 → 4,6 or 1 → 6, 1 → 2,3, 1 → 2,3,4, and other glycosidic bonds. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy also showed that RRPP has both α- and β-glycosidic bonds. The in vitro antioxidant activity test showed that RRPP could potentialize scavenging effect on ABTS+· and its scavenging rate was 91.3%.

Rehmannia Glutinosa Polysaccharide Regulates Bone Marrow Microenvironment via HIF-1α/NF-κB Signaling Pathway in Aplastic Anemia Mice

Aplastic anemia (AA), a rare disorder, is associated with bone marrow microenvironment (BMM). Presently, AA treatment is of great difficulty. This study aimed to explore the mechanism of action of Rehmannia glutinosa polysaccharide (RGP) in AA. Busulfan was used to induce AA in BALB/c mice; blood cell count and Ray's Giemsa staining were used to assess the severity of hematopoietic failure; HE was performed to assess the pathological state of the marrow cavity; ELISA was performed to assess IL-4, IL-10, IL-6, IL-12, IL-1β, TNF-α, MCP-1, VEGF, and EPO; and WB was performed to evaluate the effects of RGP on the HIF-1α/NF-κB signaling. Significant downregulation of hemocyte levels in the blood and nucleated cells in the bone marrow was reversed by RGP and Cyclosporine A (CA). Compared with the AA group, dilating blood sinusoids, inflammation, hematopoiesis, decreased bone marrow cells and megakaryocytes were alleviated by RGP and CA, and the HIF-1α/NF-κB signaling was inhibited too. Notably, RGP was more effective when used in combination with CA. In this study, we established a relationship between BMM and the HIF-1α/NF-κB signaling pathway and found that RGP regulates BMM by suppressing the activation of the HIF-1α/NF-κB signaling. Thus, RGP exerts a pharmacological effect on AA.

Extraction, structure and bioactivities of polysaccharides from Rehmannia glutinosa: A review

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGIC RELEVANCE

Rehmannia glutinosa (Gaertn.) DC. (RG) is a widely used herb for clearing heat and cooling the blood. Polysaccharides from Rehmannia glutinosa (Gaertn.) DC. (RGPs) have a variety of biological activities, including antioxidation, hypoglycemia, immune enhancement, hematopoiesis promotion, and antianxiety.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This review provides up-to-date and comprehensive information on the extraction and separation methods, structural characteristics, and pharmacological activities of RGPs. A more in-depth study on the structure and clinical pharmacology of the RGPs was investigated. To further explore the pharmacological effects of RGPS, and lay a foundation for the safe clinical application and expansion of application scope.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Use Google Scholar, Scifinder, PubMed, Springer, Elsevier, Wiley, Web of Science and other online database search to collect the literature on extraction, separation, structural analysis and pharmacological activity of RGPs published before December 2022. The key words are "extraction", "isolation", "purification" and "pharmacological action" and "Rehmanniae polysaccharide".

RESULTS

Rehmannia glutinosa has been widely used in the treatment of diabetes since ancient times, and is known as one of the "Four Sacred Medicines" for the treatment of diabetes, along with Ginseng, Psidium Guajava and Pueraria Mirifica. The active ingredients of Rehmannia glutinosa that have been studied more in the treatment of diabetes are Rehmannia glutinosa polysaccharide and Rehmannia glutinosa oligosaccharide. The content of polysaccharides varies due to different extraction methods, and separation and purification methods. RGPs have a wide range of pharmacological activities, including antitumor, immunomodulatory, neuroprotective effect, hypoglycemic activity, cardioprotective and antioxidant activities. These pharmacological properties lay a foundation for the treatment of tumors, inflammation, hyperglycemia, myocardial ischemia, oxidative stress and other diseases with RGPs.

CONCLUSION

Based on its effects of promoting hematopoiesis, antitumor and enhancing immunity, RGPs have been clinically applied in the treatment of chronic aplastic anemia and esophageal cancer, but other effects of RGPs have not been reflected in the clinical practice. In the future, more in-depth research can be conducted on the molecular structure analysis, toxicity, side effects and clinical pharmacological effects of RGPs to further explore the pharmacological effects of RGPs and to lay the foundation for safe clinical application and expansion of application scope.

Cyclopentanoid monoterpenes from the whole plant of Rehmannia piasezkii maxim

Twelve undescribed cyclopentanoid monoterpenes, Jiopiasins A-K and 6-epi-rehmaglutin A, and 19 known compounds were isolated from the whole plant of Rehmannia piasezkii Maxim. The structures of these compounds, especially their absolute stereochemistry, were established by extensive spectroscopic analysis, various quantum chemical calculations, and/or X-ray diffraction analyses. Furthermore, in vitro assays, some compounds exhibited moderate hepatoprotective activities against N-acetyl-p-aminophenol (APAP)-induced HepG2 cell damage.

Ionones and lignans from the fresh roots of Rehmannia glutinosa

Nine undescribed compounds, together with 21 known components, were isolated from the fresh roots of Rehmannia glutinosa. Their structures were elucidated based on spectroscopic data analysis, and the absolute configurations of undescribed compounds were determined by comparison of their calculated and experimental electronic circular dichroic (ECD) spectra and interpretation of their optical rotation data. The α-glucosidase inhibitory effects of the isolated compounds were investigated and all of them exhibited slightly inhibitory activities.

Four ionones and ionone glycosides from the whole plant of Rehmannia piasezkii

Four new ionones and ionone glycosides (1-4) were isolated from the whole plant of Rehmannia piasezkii Maxim. Their planar structures as well as absolute configuration were confirmed via spectroscopic analysis, ECD calculation, and X-ray crystallography. Compounds 1-4 were tested for their cytotoxicity against five human tumor cell lines and ability to inhibit LPS-activated NO production in the BV2 cell line.

Three new pyridine alkaloids and one new iridoid analogue from the leaves of Rehmannia glutinosa

As part of an ongoing project on Rehmannia species, three new pyridine alkaloides (glutinosines A - C), and one new iridoid analogue (rehmaglutin E), were isolated from the leaves of Rehmannia glutinosa. The structures of the new compounds were established by extensive spectroscopic analysis and electronic circular dichroism calculations.

[Optimization of processing technology of braised Rehmanniae Radix based on multiple indexes and response surface technology and correlation between components and color]

This study aims to explore the key factors influencing the processing of braised Rehmanniae Radix, optimize the processing, and determine the correlation between the components in different processed products and chroma values, which is expected to add quantitative indexes for the processing of braised Rehmanniae Radix and better control the processing. The weights of the indexes catalpol, rehmannioside D, verbascoside, isoacteoside, 5-hydroxymethylfurfural, reducing sugar, and appearance were calculated based on analytic hierarchy process(AHP) in combination with coefficient of variation, and the overall desirability(OD) was obtained. Box-Behnken design was used to explore the optimal amount of water added, time for soaking with rice wine, and steaming time in the processing of braised Rehmanniae Radix. Colorimeter was employed to determine the chroma of 17 samples and raw samples, and SPSS, Prism, and other software to investigate the correlation between the components in braised Rehmanniae Radix and the chroma values. The results showed that each factor influenced the processing, and the influence followed the order of steaming time>amount of water added>time for soaking with rice wine. The optimal processing process is as below: A total of 100 g medicinal material was added with 7 times of water, followed by soaking with rice wine for 5 h and steaming in a pot for 6 h. The correlation analysis suggested the extremely significantly positive correlation between L~* and content of catalpol, between a~* and 5-hydroxymethylfurfural content, and between b~* and catalpol content, and the extremely significantly negative correlation between L~* and the content of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural and reducing sugar, and between b~* and the content of 5-hydroxymethylfural and reducing sugar. In this experiment, response surface methodology was used to optimize the processing technology of braised Rehmanniae Radix and the optimized process was rational and feasible. The content of chemical components in braised Rehmanniae Radix was significantly correlated with the chroma. This study provided a new method for the quality evaluation of braised Rehmanniae Radix.

[Effect of Rehmanniae Radix on depression-like behavior and hippocampal monoamine neurotransmitters of chronic unpredictable mild stress model rats]

To investigate the effect of Rehmanniae Radix on depression-like behavior and monoamine neurotransmitters of chronic unpredictable mild stress(CUMS) model rats. CUMS combined with isolated feeding was used to induce the depression model of rats. The depression-like behavior of rats was evaluated by sucrose preference test, open field test, and forced swim test. Hematoxylin-Eosin(HE) staining was used to investigate the pathological changes of neurons in the CA1 and CA3 area of hippocampus. Ultra performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry(UPLC-MS) was used to detect the contents of 5-hydroxytryptamine(5-HT), 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid(5-HIAA), dopamine(DA), 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid(DOPAC), homovanillic acid(HVA), norepinephrine(NE), and 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenyl glycol(MHPG) in rats. Western blot was used to detect the protein expressions of tryptophan hydroxylase 2(TPH2), serotonin transporter(SERT), and monoamine oxidase A(MAO-A) in the hippocampus of rats. Compared with the normal group, depressive-like behavior of rats was obvious in the model group. The arrangements of neurons in the CA1 and CA3 area of hippocampus were loose and disorderly. The levels of 5-HT, 5-HIAA, and 5-HT/5-HIAA in the hippocampal area were decreased(P<0.01). The protein expression of TPH2 was decreased(P<0.01), but those of SERT and MAO-A were increased(P<0.01). In the Rehmanniae Radix groups with 1.8 g·kg~(-1) and 7.2 g·kg~(-1), the depression-like behavior of CUMS rats and pathological changes of neurons in CA1, CA3 area of hippocampus were improved. The protein expression of TPH2(P<0.05, P<0.01) was increased, and those of SERT and MAO-A were down-regulated(P<0.05, P<0.01). The levels of 5-HT, 5-HIAA, and 5-HT/5-HIAA in hippocampus were increased(P<0.05, P<0.01). The changes in DA, DOPAC, HVA, DA/(DOPAC +HVA), NE, DHPG, and NE/DHPG were not statistically significant. The results suggested that Rehmanniae Radix improved depression-like behavior of CUMS rats, and the mechanism might be related to the regulation of synthesis, transportation, and metabolism of 5-HT neurotransmitter in the hippocampus.

[Synthesis, characterization, and immunological activity of Rehmannia glutinosa seleno-polysaccharides]

The present study explored the optimum synthesis process of Rehmannia glutinosa seleno-polysaccharides with acetic acid as a catalyst, characterized the structure of R. glutinosa seleno-polysaccharides by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy(FT-IR), scanning electron microscopy(SEM), thermogravimetry(TG), and atomic force microscopy(AFM), and preliminarily investigated the immunological activity of R. glutinosa seleno-polysaccharides. The results showed that the optimal conditions for the synthesis of R. glutinosa seleno-polysaccharides included m(acetic acid)∶m(R. glutinosa polysaccharides)=0.80, m(Na_2SeO_3)∶m(R. glutinosa polysaccharides)=1.25, reaction temperature of 80.0 ℃, and reaction time of 7.0 h. Under these conditions, the selenium content of R. glutinosa seleno-polysaccharides was 2.239 mg·g~(-1). The acetic acid catalysis method was milder than the nitric acid method, without affecting the structure of polysaccharides. The results of IR, SEM, TG, and AFM showed that R. glutinosa seleno-polysaccharides were properly prepared. The results of immunological activity showed that compared with the control group, R. glutinosa seleno-polysaccharides could significantly promote the phagocytic capacity of mouse monocyte macrophages and improve the spleen index and thymus index of mice. In the concentration range of 15-240 μg·mL~(-1), the proliferation of spleen lymphocytes of mice was strengthened, and the IL-2 and IFN-γ secretion by Th1 cytokines was promoted. This study can provide references for the further development and application of R. glutinosa polysaccharides.

Rehmannioside A improves cognitive impairment and alleviates ferroptosis via activating PI3K/AKT/Nrf2 and SLC7A11/GPX4 signaling pathway after ischemia

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Rehmannioside A is derived from Rehmannia glutinosa Libosch, which is widely used as an important ingredient in diverse traditional Chinese medicines to treat diseases caused by "kidney deficiency" such as cerebral arteriosclerosis, aging-related stroke and dementia in China. Recent studies have proved that Rehmannia glutinosa Libosch and Rehmannioside A can improve memory capability and recover nerve damage.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To investigate the effect of Rehmannioside A on cognitive impairment after ischemia in rats and SH-SY5Y cells, and further evaluate the anti-oxidative and anti-ferroptosis mechanisms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) in patients after cerebral ischemic stroke were revealed by a RayBio protein array. Cognitive impairment model was established by middle cerebral artery occlusion and reperfusion (MCAO) 14 days in rats. Rehmannioside A was administered intraperitoneally injection at dose of 80 mg/kg. The SH-SY5Y cells were exposed to H2O2 for 24 h and treated with Rehmannioside A (80 μM) for 24 h. The neuroprotecion of Rehmannioside A were evaluated by infarct volume (TTC), neurological defects (Garcia score) and learning memory (Morris water maze test) in vivo, and cell viability (CCK-8 or LDH) in vitro. Superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity of rats, glutathione (GSH), oxidized glutathione (GSSG) and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) of cells were detected by biochemical assay. Intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) were measured by DCFH-DA assay. Myeloperoxidase (MPO), PI3 kinase (PI3K), p-PI3K, Akt, p-Akt, heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), nuclear factor-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), SLC7A11, glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) of the cerebral cortex in rats or SH-SY5Y cells were examined by western blotting.

RESULTS

Compared with model group, the cognitive impairment and neurological deficits of Rehmannioside A group were significantly improved, and the cerebral infarction was reduced in MCAO rats. Moreover, the cell viability obviously increased and the H2O2-induced toxicity was reduced in Rehmannioside A group. Further research indicated that the expression of p-PI3K, p-Akt, nuclear Nrf2, HO-1 and SLC7A11 in Rehmannioside A group was significantly higher than model group.

CONCLUSION

Rehmannioside A has neuroprotection effect and improves cognitive impairment after cerebral ischemia by inhibiting ferroptosis and activating PI3K/AKT/Nrf2 and SLC7A11/GPX4 signaling pathway. These findings provide valuable insight into the pathogenesis and therapeutic target of ischemic stroke.

[Acetylation of Rehmannia glutinosa polysaccharides and antioxidant activity of acetylated derivatives]

This study aims to acetylate Rehmannia glutinosa polysaccharides by acetic anhydride method, optimize process parameters and evaluate their antioxidant activity. With the degree of substitution(D_s) as a criterion, the effects of reaction time, acetic anhydride-to-polysaccharides ratio and temperature were investigated. Process parameters were optimized by single-factor experiment and response surface methodology. The infrared spectroscopy(IR) and scanning electron microscopy(SEM) proved the successful acetylation and were employed to preliminarily analyze the structural characteristics of acetylated derivatives. The results showed that the D_s was 0.327 under the optimal technological conditions, including m(acetic anhydride):m(R. glutinosa polysaccharides)=2.70, reaction time 3.0 h and temperature 48 ℃. Further, the antioxidant properties of acetylated derivatives were investigated in vitro and acetylation was found effective to improve the antioxidant activity of R. glutinosa polysaccharides. This study provides a reference for the further development and application of R. glutinosa polysaccharides.

Polysaccharides derived from Chinese medicinal herbs: A promising choice of vaccine adjuvants

Adjuvants have been used in vaccines for a long time to promote the body's immune response, reducing vaccine dosage and production costs. Although many vaccine adjuvants are developed, the use in human vaccines is limited because of either limited action or side effects. Therefore, the development of new vaccine adjuvants is required. Many studies have found that natural polysaccharides derived from Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) possess good immune promoting effects and simultaneously improve humoral, cellular and mucosal immunity. Recently polysaccharide adjuvants have attracted much attention in vaccine preparation because of their intrinsic characteristics: immunomodulation, biocompatibility, biodegradability, low toxicity and safety. This review article systematically analysed the literature on polysaccharides possessing vaccine adjuvant activity from TCM plants, such as Astragalus polysaccharide (APS), Rehmannia glutinosa polysaccharide (RGP), Isatis indigotica root polysaccharides (IRPS), etc. and their derivatives. We believe that polysaccharide adjuvants can be used to prepare the vaccines for clinical use provided their mechanisms of action are studied in detail.

Reverse tracing anti-thrombotic active ingredients from dried Rehmannia Radix based on multidimensional spectrum-effect relationship analysis of steaming and drying for nine cycles

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and modern pharmacodynamics, dried Rehmannia Radix (DRR) possesses prominent anti-thrombotic activity that decreases after processing by nine steaming and drying cycles to develop processed Rehmannia Radix (PRR). Due to the complexity of the DRR components, the chemical mechanism leading to efficacy changes of DRR caused by processing is still unclear.

AIM OF STUDY

This study aimed to trace the anti-thrombotic active compounds of DRR and different degrees of processed RR (PRR) and to evaluate the synergistic effects among different active components.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The anti-thrombotic active chemical fraction of DRR extracts was evaluated. Targeted fractions of the processed products of RR were prepared at different processing stages. The changes in monosaccharides, oligosaccharides and secondary metabolites during processing were characterized by multidimensional high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The anti-thrombotic effects of targeted fractions of different RR samples were evaluated by analyzing the length of tail thrombus (LT) and serum biochemical indicators in carrageenan-induced tail-thrombus mice. The spectrum-effect relationships were investigated by partial least squares regression (PLSR) analysis and gray correlation analysis (GRA). Finally, the active compounds were screened by spectrum-effect relationship analysis and validated in vivo, and their synergistic effects were determined by Webb's fraction multiplication method.

RESULTS

Six ingredients highly associated with anti-thrombotic activities were screened out by the spectrum-effect relationship analysis, of which oligosaccharides (stachyose, sucrose and raffinose) and iridoid glycosides (catalpol, leonuride and melitoside) possessed a synergistic effect on tumor necrosis factors (TNF-α), interleukin 1β (IL-1β) and plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI-1)/tissue-type plasminogen activator (t-PA) ratio in vivo with synergistic coefficient (SC) > 1.

CONCLUSION

The main material basis of the anti-thrombotic activities of DRR is oligosaccharide components of stachyose, raffinose and sucrose, iridoid glycosides components of catalpol, leonuride and melittoside. The two kinds of components exert synergistic anti-thrombotic effects by inhibiting the expression of inflammatory factors and regulating the balance of the fibrinolysis system.

The synergic renoprotective effect of Rehmanniae Radix Preparata and Corni Fructus on adenine-induced chronic kidney disease rats based on integrated plasma metabolomics and network pharmacology approach

AIMS

Rehmanniae Radix Preparata (RR) and Corni Fructus (CF) are commonly used together for the treatment of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in the clinical practices for thousands of years. However, little information on their synergy mechanism is available.

MAIN METHODS

In this study, an integrated approach combining ultra performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF/MS)-based metabonomics and network pharmacology was adopted to elucidate the cooperation mechanism of RR and CF on the amelioration of CKD. Furthermore, the targets from network pharmacology and metabolism pathways were jointly analyzed. Finally, the activities of key metabolic enzymes were experimentally validated by ELISA.

KEY FINDINGS

Metabolic profiling indicated that the metabolic disturbance in plasma was markedly alleviated after treatment. Nine putative biomarkers mainly involving in phenylalanine, tyrosine and tryptophan biosynthesis and tyrosine metabolism were identified. Moreover, the compound-target-pathway network of RR and CF for CKD treatment was constructed by network pharmacology, which was related to tyrosine metabolism and arginine and proline metabolism. The results were partly consistent with the findings of plasma metabolomics.

SIGNIFICANCE

In conclusion, this study solidly supported and enhanced current understanding of the synergy effects of RR and CF on CKD. Meanwhile, it also confirmed the feasibility of combining metabolomics and network pharmacology to identify active components and elucidate the pharmacological effects of traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs).

Catalpol enhanced physical exercise-mediated brain functional improvement in post-traumatic stress disorder model via promoting adult hippocampal neurogenesis

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a serious psychiatric disorder characterized by hyper-response to environmental cues as well as the associated depressive and cognitive dysfunctions. According to the key roles of hippocampus for cognitive and emotional regulation, improving hippocampal functions, particularly hippocampal neural plasticity, is the necessary pathway to attenuate the core symptoms of PTSD. The effects of the alternative therapies such as exercise and natural compounds to reduce PTSD symptoms and promote adult hippocampal neurogenesis have been widely demonstrated. However, what is the effect of combining the exercise with traditional Chinese medical compounds remains unknown. In current study, we evaluated the effects of catalpol, which showed the pro-neurogenic effects in previous report, in regulating exercise-mediated PTSD therapeutic effects. With behavioral tests, we found that catalpol treatment promoted the effects of exercise to reduce the response of mice to dangerous cues, and simultaneously enhanced the antidepressant and cognitive protection effects. Moreover, by immunofluorescence we identified that catalpol promoted exercise-mediated hippocampal neurogenesis by enhancing the neural differentiation and mature neuronal survive. We further found that the promote effects of catalpol to exercise-induced environmental hyper-response, antidepressant effects and cognitive protective effects were all compromised by blocking neurogenesis with temozolomide (TMZ). This result indicates that hippocampal neurogenesis is prerequisite for catalpol to promote exercise-mediated brain functional improvement in PTSD model. In conclusion, our research identified the new function of natural compounds catalpol to promote the exercise-mediated brain functional changes in PTSD model, which depend on its effect promoting adult hippocampal neurogenesis.

Therapeutic potential of catalpol and geniposide in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases: A snapshot of their underlying mechanisms

Rehmannia glutinosa, the fresh or dried root of Rehmannia glutinosa (Gaertn.) Libosch. ex Fisch. & Mey., and Gardenia, the fruit of Gardenia jasminoides Ellis from Rubiaceae, both are famous traditional Chinese medicines that have been traditionally used in China. Catalpol and geniposide, as two kinds of iridoid glycosides with high activities, are the main bioactive components in Rehmannia glutinosa and Gardenia jasminoides Ellis, respectively. Over the past few decades, catalpol and geniposide have been widely studied for their therapeutic effects. The preclinical experiments demonstrated that they possessed significant neuroprotective activities against Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, stroke, and depression, etc. In this paper, the pharmacological effects and mechanisms of catalpol and geniposide on Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease from 2005 to now were systematically summarized and comprehensively analyzed. At the same time, the pharmacokinetic characteristics of the analyzed compounds were also described, hoping to provide some enlightenment for the design, research, and development of iridoid glycosides.

Overexpression of RgPAL family genes involved in phenolic biosynthesis promotes the replanting disease development in Rehmannia glutinosa

Rehmannia glutinosa production is affected by the replanting disease, which involves autotoxic harm mediated by specific endogenous allelochemicals in root exudates. Many phenolics that act as allelochemical agents are mostly phenylpropanoid products of secondary metabolism in plants. Phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL) is the first enzyme that catalyses the deamination of l-phenylalanine for entrance into the phenylpropanoid pathway. PAL family genes have been isolated and functionally characterized in many plant species. However, PAL family genes involved in phenolic biosynthesis remain largely uncharacterized in R. glutinosa. Here, we identified and characterized four PAL family genes (RgPAL2 to RgPAL5) in the species whose sequences exhibited highly conserved domains of PALs according to in silico analysis, implying their potential function in phenolic biosynthesis. Overexpression of RgPALs in R. glutinosa enhanced phenolic production, verifying that RgPAL family genes participate in phenolic biosynthesis pathways. Moreover, we found that the release of several allelopathic phenolics from the roots of RgPAL-overexpressing transgenic R. glutinosa increased, implying that the RgPALs positively promote their release. Importantly, under continuous monoculture stress, we found that the RgPAL transgenic plants exhibited more significant autotoxic harm than did non-transgenic (WT) plants by activating the phenolics/phenylpropanoid pathway, indicating that RgPAL family genes function as positive regulators of the replanting disease development in R. glutinosa. This study revealed that RgPAL family genes are involved in the biosynthesis and release of several phenolics and positively control the replanting disease development in R. glutinosa, laying a foundation for further clarification of the molecular mechanisms underlying the disease formation.

Comparative study of Danshen and Siwu decoction based on the molecular structures of the components and predicted targets

BACKGROUND

The sentence of "Danshen (Salvia Miltiorrhizae Radix et Rhizoma) and Siwu decoction are similar in function" was first recorded in an ancient Chinese medical book "Fu Ren Ming Li Lun". This theory has far-reaching influence on the clinical practice of Chinese medicine and is highly respected by Chinese medical doctors. However, the theory has limitations and controversial part for there is no in-depth and system comparative study.

METHODS

We collected the molecular structures of 129 compounds of Danshen and 81 compounds of Siwu decoction from the literatures. MACCS fingerprints and Tanimoto similarity were calculated based on the molecular structures for comparing the structural feature. Molecular descriptors which represent physical and chemical properties were calculated by Discovery Studio. Principal component analysis (PCA) of was performed based on the descriptors. The ADMET properties were predicted by FAF-Drugs4. The effect targets for the compounds with good ADMET properties were confirmed from experimental data and predicted using the algorithm comprising Bernoulli Naive Bayes profiling.

RESULTS

Based on the molecular structures, the presented study compared the structural feature, physical and chemical properties, ADMET properties, and effect targets of compounds of Danshen and Siwu decoction. It is found that Danshen and Siwu decoction do not have the same main active components. Moreover, the 2D structure of compounds from Danshen and Siwu decoction is not similar. Some of the compounds of Danshen and Siwu decoction are similar in 3D structure. The compounds with good ADMET properties of Danshen and Siwu decoction have same predicted targets, but some have different targets.

CONCLUSIONS

It can be inferred from the result that Danshen and Siwu decoction have some similarities, but also present differences from each other in the structure of the compounds and predicted targets. This may be the material basis of the similar and different traditional efficacy of Danshen and Siwu decoction. The setence of " Danshen and Siwu decoction are similar in function. " which is used in clinical has its material basis and target connotation to some extent. However, the traditional effects of Danshen and Siwu decoction are not exactly the same.

Characterization of the cold and hot natures of raw and processed Rehmanniae Radix by integrated metabolomics and network pharmacology

BACKGROUND

The processing of Chinese materia medica (CMM) is one of the characteristics and advantages of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Occasionally, the processing of CMM might reverse the cold/hot nature of CMM. For example, the nature of raw Rehmanniae Radix (RR) is cool, while the processed Rehmanniae Radix (PR) by steaming is hot. Because the cold/hot nature of CMM is defined by the body's response to CMMs, a metabolomics approach, allowing the monitoring of the fluctuation of endogenous metabolites related to an exogenous stimulus, might be an ideal tool to uncover the cold/hot nature of different forms of Rehmanniae Radix.

PURPOSE

An integrated strategy combining metabolomics and network pharmacology was applied to illuminate the different natures of raw and processed Rehmanniae Radix.

STUDY DESIGN

Mice were orally administered RR and PR once daily for ten days. The entire metabolic changes in the plasma of mice were profiled by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography/quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC/Q-TOF MS). Furthermore, network pharmacology analysis was performed to identify the underlying targets related to iridoids that significantly changed during the processing.

RESULTS

The metabolomics analysis results demonstrated a clear separation of the metabolic phenotypes among the control, RR and two PR groups in both the positive and negative modes. Nine lysophosphatidylcholines (LysoPCs), LysoPC (16:0), LysoPC (18:2), LysoPC (18:1), LysoPC (22:6), LysoPC (20:2), LysoPC (18:0), LysoPC (16:1), LysoPC (20:4) and LysoPC (20:5), that decreased in the RR-treated group, but increased in the PR-treated group, were identified to be potential biomarkers related to the natures of RR and PR. The network pharmacology results indicated that four iridoids in Rehmanniae Radix, 8-epiloganic acid, 6-O-p-coumaroyl ajugol, 6-O-p-hydroxybenzoyl ajugol and ajugol, might play important roles in the different natures of raw and processed Rehmanniae Radix.

CONCLUSIONS

There might be a strong connection between the cold/hot nature of different forms of Rehmanniae Radix and LysoPC metabolism. This study offers new insight into the cold/hot nature of Rehmanniae Radix.

Effects of Rehmannia glutinosa polysaccharides on the proliferation and apoptosis of K562 cells

Leukemia is one of the malignant tumors of hemopoietic system which is characterized by the block of hematopoietic cell differentiation and maturation, increased proliferation of undifferentiated cells and impairment of normal apoptosis process. The proliferating leukemia cells accumulated in bone marrow and other hemopoietic tissue, infiltrated other organs and tissues, so that the normal hematopoiesis will be inhibited. Chemotherapy is currently the most effective means of treatment of leukemia which has greatly improved survival rate, but it also induces undesirable adverse effects and high recurrence rate. Therefore, it is necessary to search for new drugs with low toxicity for the treatment of leukemia. Rehmannia glutinosa is a traditional Chinese medcine and polysaccharides of Rehmannia glutinosa (RPS) were reported to have the immune stimulatory effect and anti-tumor effect both in vivo and in vitro. After incubating K562 cells (a kind of chronic mylogenous leukemia cell model) with different concentration of RPS, we found that RPS could induce cells arrest in G0/G1 phase and apoptosis, meanwhile, the cell proliferation was also inhibited. Moreover, the expression of Bcl2 was downregulated, and the activity of Caspase3 was improved after incubating K562 cells with RPS for 48 h.

Radix Rehmanniae and Corni Fructus against Diabetic Nephropathy via AGE-RAGE Signaling Pathway

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Radix Rehmanniae and Corni Fructus (RC) have been widely applied to treat diabetic nephropathy (DN) for centuries. But the mechanism of how RC plays the therapeutic role against DN is unclear as yet.

METHODS

The information about RC was obtained from a public database. The active compounds of RC were screened by oral bioavailability (OB) and drug-likeness (DL). Gene ontology (GO) analysis was performed to realize the key targets of RC, and an active compound-potential target network was created. The therapeutic effects of RC active compounds and their key signal pathways were preliminarily probed via network pharmacology analysis and animal experiments.

RESULTS

In this study, 29 active compounds from RC and 64 key targets related to DN were collected using the network pharmacology method. The pathway enrichment analysis showed that RC regulated advanced glycosylation end product (AGE-) RAGE and IL-17 signaling pathways to treat DN. The animal experiments revealed that RC significantly improved metabolic parameters, inflammation renal structure, and function to protect the kidney against DN.

CONCLUSIONS

The results revealed the relationship between multicomponents and multitargets of RC. The administratiom of RC might remit the DM-induced renal damage through the AGE-RAGE signaling pathway to improve metabolic parameters and protect renal structure and function.

Study of the Effect of Neutral Polysaccharides from Rehmannia glutinosa on Lifespan of Caenorhabditis elegans

The problem of an aging society is becoming increasingly acute. Diseases related to aging also come with it. There are some diseases that people can't treat fundamentally. Therefore, people try to find a natural ingredient from natural medicine to treat these diseases and improve the quality of life of the elderly. With the screening of a large number of traditional Chinese medicines, we found that polysaccharides from Rehmannia glutinous (PRG) can prolong the lifespan of Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans). Neutral polysaccharide is the main component of PRG. In the present study, we used a C. elegans model to illustrate the stress resistance and lifespan extension effect and mechanism of two kinds of neutral polysaccharide fractions from Rehmannia glutinosa (NPRG), respectively called NPRRP and NPRR. Our data showed that two kinds of neutral polysaccharides fractions could extend the lifespan and delay senescence of wild-type worms. Moreover, the mechanism study revealed that NPRG was able to promote the nuclear localization of DAF-16 resulting in the activation of antioxidant enzymatic systems under oxidative stress. We also observed that NPRG didn't increase the lifespan of mutants with daf-16 portion loss of function, suggesting NPRG prolonging the lifespan partially required the daf-16 gene on the insulin/IGF-1 signaling pathway (IIS). NPRG was found to have no effect on Escherichia coli OP50 (E.coli OP50) growth and pharyngeal pump movement of nematodes, indicating that the anti‑aging effect of NPRG is not realized by the caloric restriction. However, mRNA levels of daf-2 were remarkably decreased after NPRG treatment. Thus daf-2 lost its inhibitory effect on the expression of daf-16 and had a continuous stimulation effect on the IIS, then prolonged the life of nematodes. Overall, our results illustrated the potential utilization of NPRG as a functional pharmaceutical ingredient to increase stress resistance and extend the life of C. elegans via the IIS, which could be developed as a natural supplement agent.

Optimum Preparation Method for Self-Assembled PEGylation Nano-Adjuvant Based on Rehmannia glutinosa Polysaccharide and Its Immunological Effect on Macrophages

BACKGROUND

Rehmannia glutinosa polysaccharide is the main reason that contributes to the immunological function of R. glutinosa. Due to its disadvantages in clinical use, here we designed the PEGylation nano-RGP (pRL) to improve the drug-targeting effect and the immunological function. Our present work aims to establish the optimum condition of preparing the pRL and to investigate its immunological function on macrophages.

METHODS

pRL was prepared by thin film hydration method combined with ultra-sonication technique. And its preparation conditions were optimized with response surface methodology. Also, the lyophilization method was optimized. The characteristics of the pRL were evaluated, including particle size, drug loading, encapsulation efficiency and morphology. The immunological function of pRL on macrophage was investigated through CCK-8 test, ELISA and flow cytometry.

RESULTS

The lipid-to-cholesterol molar ratio of 8:1, the addition of DSPE-PEG2000 of 9% and the lipid-to-drug ratio of 5.4:1 were the optimum preparation technology for pRL. The encapsulation efficiency (EE) of pRL under this preparation technology was 95.81±1.58%, with a particle size of 31.98 ± 2.6 nm. The lactose-to-lipid ratio (2:1) was the optimal lyophilization method. pRL promoted macrophage proliferation, which is significantly better than that of nano-RGP without PEGylation (RL). pRL-stimulated RAW264.7 cells showed a high secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which is the characteristic indicator of M1 polarization. Enhanced cellular uptake through macropinocytosis-dependent and caveolae-mediated endocytosis was observed in pRL-treated RAW264.7 cells.

CONCLUSION

Our study concluded that PEGylation effectively overcame the poor targeting effect of Rehmannia glutinosa polysaccharide (RGP) and significantly improved the immunological profile of its nano-formulation, which suggested that pRL could serve as an immune adjuvant in clinical application.

The protective effect and mechanism of catalpol on high glucose-induced podocyte injury

BACKGROUND

Catalpol, a natural iridoid glycoside in Rehmannia glutinosa, can alleviate proteinuria associated with diabetic nephropathy (DN), however, whether catalpol has a protective effect against podocyte injury in DN remains unclear.

METHODS

In this study, we used a high glucose (HG)-induced podocyte injury model to evaluate the protective effect and mechanism of catalpol against HG-induced podocyte injury. Cell viability was determined by the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazolyl-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) method. The levels of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) were measured by commercial assay kits. Cell apoptosis and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were determined by using flow cytometry. Tumour necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The protein expression levels of B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2), Bcl2-associated x (Bax), cleaved caspase-3, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase enzyme 4 (NOX4), toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), myeloid differentiation primary response gene 88 (MyD88), p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK), phosphorylated p38 MAPK (p-p38 MAPK), nuclear factor kappa B inhibitor alpha (IκBα) and phosphorylated IκBα (p-IκBα) were measured by western blotting. In addition, Bcl-2, Bax, caspase-3 and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) levels were determined by immunofluorescence staining.

RESULTS

Catalpol significantly increased cell viability and decreased LDH release in HG-induced podocyte injury. Catalpol significantly decreased ROS generation, apoptosis, level of MDA, levels of inflammatory cytokine TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 and increased SOD activity in HG-induced podocyte injury. Moreover, catalpol significantly decreased expression of cleaved caspase-3, Bax, NOX4, TLR4, MyD88, p-p38 MAPK, p-IκBα and NF-κB nuclear translocation, as well as increased Bcl-2 expression in HG-induced podocyte injury.

CONCLUSION

Catalpol can protect against podocyte injury by ameliorating apoptosis and inflammation. These protective effects may be attributed to the inhibition of NOX4, which alleviates ROS generation and suppression of the TLR4/MyD88 and p38 MAPK signaling pathways to prevent NF-κB activation. Therefore, catalpol could be a promising drug for the prevention of DN.

Five new iridoids from the whole plants of Rehmannia henryi

Five new iridoids (1-5), jiohenrins A-E, together with sixteen known compounds (6-21), were isolated from the whole plants of Rehmannia henryi. The structures of these compounds were elucidated on the basis of their spectroscopic data.

Effects of dietary Radix Rehmanniae Preparata polysaccharides on the growth performance, immune response and disease resistance of Luciobarbus capito

This work explores the effects of dietary Radix Rehmanniae Preparata polysaccharide (RRPP) supplementation on the growth performance, nonspecific immune responses, immune- and growth-related gene expression and disease resistance to Aeromonas hydrophila in Luciobarbus capito. Diets containing five concentrations of 0%, 0.05%, 0.1%, 0.2% and 0.4% RRPP were fed to fish for 60 d. The results indicated that the growth performance significantly increased in the 0.1%, 0.2% and 0.4% RRPP groups compared with that in the control (P < 0.05). The activities of serum lysozyme (LAZ), acid phosphatase (ACP), superoxide dismutase (SOD), alkaline phosphatase (AKP) and total protein (TP) were significantly increased in the appropriate RRPP supplemented groups (P < 0.05). With respect to immune- and growth-related genes, such as interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-8, tumor-necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interferon (IFN)-γ, growth hormone (GH), insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-I and IGF-II, up-regulation were observed in the three organs (kidney, spleen, gut) of the fish fed with RRPP, compared with the control. In contrast, the mRNA expression of IL-10 and transforming-growth factor (TGF)-β were downregulated. After challenge with A. hydrophila, the final survival rate was significantly higher in fish fed the RRPP supplement than that in the control group (P < 0.05). In conclusion, RRPP enhanced the growth performance, immune response and disease resistance of Luciobarbus capito, with the greatest effects at 0.2% RRPP.

Nine new compounds from the whole plants of Rehmannia henryi

Eight new iridoids (1-8) and an ionone glucoside (9), together with 31 known compounds (10-40), were isolated from the whole plants of Rehmannia henryi. The structures of these compounds were elucidated on the basis of their spectroscopic data and chemical evidence.

Catalpol Ameliorates Neointimal Hyperplasia in Diabetic Rats

Catalpol, an iridoid glycoside, is an isolated natural product of Rehmannia glutinosa, which has been reported to have antidiabetic properties. This study investigated the vascular protective effects of catalpol in hyperglycemic rats with balloon-injured carotid arteries. Balloon injury stress led to the upregulation of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 expression in rats with streptozotocin-induced diabetes. Western blotting and real-time PCR were performed. In situ hybridization, immunohistochemistry, and confocal analyses were employed. Monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 levels were increased through streptozotocin induction or balloon injury. After treatment with catalpol, the neointimal hyperplasia area was reduced 2 weeks after balloon injury in hyperglycemic rats. Real-time PCR and immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated reduced levels of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 2 weeks after the balloon injury. Monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 expression was significantly increased in balloon-injured rats compared with the control groups. Thus, treatment with catalpol affected monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 expression. This study demonstrated that catalpol downregulated monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 expression in carotid arteries and ameliorated neointimal hyperplasia in hyperglycemic rats. The suppressive effect of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 suggests that it plays a key role in neointimal hyperplasia. The results imply that catalpol is potentially effective for preventing hyperglycemia-related ischemic cardiac diseases.

Comparisons of antithrombosis, hematopoietic effects and chemical profiles of dried and rice wine-processed Rehmanniae Radix extracts

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Rehmanniae Radix (RR, derived from the root of Rehmannia glutinosa (Gaertn.) DC.) is commonly used as natural medicine for thousands of years, two types including the dried and rice-wine processed RR were used for different clinical purposes respectively, which were the typical case that pharmaceutical effect changed by processing in TCM.

AIM OF STUDY

The goal of this study was to investigate the differences in the antithrombosis and hematopoietic effects of extracts of dried and processed RR (DRR and PRR) in vivo, and to explore the chemical basis underlying changes of medicinal properties caused by processing.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The aqueous extracts of DRR and PRR were prepared. Protective effect of varying doses of different extracts were investigated in type-I carrageenan induced mice tail thrombosis and cyclophosphamide induced myelosuppression model. The chemical composition of DRR and PRR extracts were determined by High Performance Liquid Chromatography coupled with tandem quadrupole time-of-flight Mass Spectrometry (HPLC/Q-TOF-MS).

RESULTS

In antithrombosis activity tests, PRR possessed less ameliorated effects than DRR in the model mouse on body temperature, tail thrombus length and blood flow. Both DRR and PRR had no significant influence on prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), only high dose DRR could decrease the content of fibrinogen (FIB) in plasma. Histological examination of lung tissue suggested that thrombosis was significantly improved in DRR-H group. For myelosuppression model, only PRR could improve peripheral hemogram, both DRR and PRR had hematopoietic effects as demonstrated by their abilities to ameliorate the bone marrow nucleated cells (BMNC) and pathology of bone marrow tissue. The hematopoietic effects of PRR were significantly more potent than that of DRR at the concentration of 9 g/kg. By comparing the chemical composition, we found that iridoid glycosides were decreased and furfural derivatives increased in DRR after processing which may be the chemical mechanism contribute to the differences in efficacy.

CONCLUSIONS

According to the results of this research, processing with rice wine for nine cycles significantly reduced antithrombotic effects and enhanced the hematopoietic effects of DRR as demonstrated in model mice. It can scientifically explain the different effect among two types of RR in clinical through the diverse method of processing and usage. Meanwhile, the predicted activity compounds from two types of RR can be potential candidates for the treatment of thrombosis and anemia.

Extracts from Paeonia lactiflora Pallas, Rehmannia Glutinosa var. Purpurea Makino, Perilla Frutescens var. Acuta Kudo may increase the endometrial receptivity through expression of leukemia inhibitory factor and adhesion molecules

OBJECTIVE

To find out the combination of the extracts from Paeonia lactiflora Pallas (PL), Reh- mannia Glutinosa var. Purpurea Makino (RG), Perilla Frutescens var. Acuta Kudo (PF) to increase endometrial receptivity.

METHODS

Herbal medicines were extracted with boiling water and polysaccharides were removed. We examined the effect of PL, RG, and PF (PRP), a most effective herbal formula deduced from constitutive ingredient herbs of Antai Yin which is composed of PRP, on the leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) expression and endometrial receptivity.

RESULTS

The combination of the extracts from PRP induced the LIF expression in Ishikawa cells and increased the adhesion between Ishikawa and JAr cells. In addition, PRP-induced attachment of JAr cells onto Ishikawa cells and expression of adhesion molecules, ITGAV, ITGB5, CD44s, and L-selectin, are significantly reduced by knock-down of LIF expression.

CONCLUSION

Induced by the combination of the PRP extracts, the adhesion between trophoblast and endometrial cells are mediated by expression of LIF and adhesion molecules. Thus, we suggest the combination of the PRP extracts may be a novel therapy for enhancing embryo implantation rate.

UPLC-Q/TOF-MS-Based Serum Metabolomics Reveals Hypoglycemic Effects of Rehmannia glutinosa, Coptis chinensis and Their Combination on High-Fat-Diet-Induced Diabetes in KK-Ay Mice

Diabetes is a worldwide severe health issue which causes various complications. This study aimed to evaluate the hypoglycemic effects of Rehmannia glutinosa (RG), Coptis chinensis (CC) alone and their combination on high-fat-diet-induced diabetes in mice via biochemical assays and UPLC-Q/TOF-MS-based serum metabolomic analysis. Diabetic KK-Ay mice were induced by high-fat diet and treated for eight weeks, separately with RG, CC and their combination and the positive control drug metformin. Administration of RG and CC alone, and their combination could decrease the fasting blood glucose level, ameliorate the tolerance of glucose, and recover the levels of total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) in sera of diabetic mice. Orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) on serum metabolomes revealed that 79 ESI⁺ and 76 ESI⁻ metabolites were changed by diabetes mellitus (DM) compared to the normal control. Heatmaps on these diabetes-related metabolites showed that CC and RG/CC were clustered closer with the normal control, indicating that they had the better antidiabetic effects at the metabolite level. Fifteen of the differential metabolites in DM serum were annotated and their related metabolic pathways were lipid metabolism. These data suggested that RG and CC alone and in combination treatment had the antidiabetic activity in lowering glycemia and improving lipid metabolism. UPLC-Q/TOF-MS-based metabolomics shed light on the differential metabolite effects of RG and CC in DM treatment. However, it should be noted that some differential metabolites were possibly generated or not detected due to our groupwise run order, which possibly contributed to or covered the group difference in our experiment. They need to be further discriminated in the future work.

Acteoside relieves mesangial cell injury by regulating Th22 cell chemotaxis and proliferation in IgA nephropathy

The existing therapies of IgA nephropathy are unsatisfying. Acteoside, the main component of Rehmannia glutinosa with anti-inflammatory and anti-immune effects, can improve urinary protein excretion and immune disorder. Th22 cell is involved in IgA nephropathy progression. This study was determined to explore the effect of acteoside on mesangial injury underlying Th22 cell disorder in IgA nephropathy. Serum Th22 cells and urine total protein of patients with IgA nephropathy were measured before and after six months treatment of Rehmannia glutinosa acteoside or valsartan. Chemotactic assay and co-culture assay were performed to investigate the effect of acteoside on Th22 cell chemotaxis and differentiation. The expression of CCL20, CCL22 and CCL27 were analyzed. To explore the effect of acteoside on mesangial cell injury induced by inflammation, IL-1, IL-6, TNF-α and TGF-β1 were tested. Results showed that the proteinuria and Th22 lymphocytosis of patients with IgA nephropathy significantly improved after combination treatment of Rehmannia glutinosa acteoside and valsartan, compared with valsartan monotherapy. In vitro study further demonstrated that acteoside inhibit Th22 cell chemotaxis by suppressing the production of Th22 cell attractive chemokines, i.e., CCL20, CCL22 and CCL27. In addition, acteoside inhibited the Th22 cell proliferation. Co-culture assay proved that acteoside could relieve the overexpression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and prevent the synthesis of TGF-β1. TGF-β1 level in mesangial cells was positively correlated with the Th22 cell. This research demonstrated that acteoside can alleviate mesangial cell inflammatory injury by modulating Th22 lymphocytes chemotaxis and proliferation.

Compatibility with Panax notoginseng and Rehmannia glutinosa Alleviates the Hepatotoxicity and Nephrotoxicity of Tripterygium wilfordii via Modulating the Pharmacokinetics of Triptolide

Tripterygium wilfordii (TW) and the representative active component triptolide show positive therapeutic effect on the autoimmune disorders and simultaneously ineluctable hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity. Combinational application of Panax notoginseng (PN) and Rehmannia glutinosa (RG) weakens the toxicity of TW according the clinical application of traditional Chinese medicine. This article was aimed at the mechanism of decreasing toxicity of TW by the combinational application of PN and RG. Biochemical and pathohistological analysis were utilized to assess the toxicity on liver and kidney in rats administrated with TW, TW-PN, TW-RG and TW-PN-RG for 3 and 7 days. Meanwhile, the pharmacokinetics profiling of triptolide and wilforlide A was determined based on the plasma concentration analyzed by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS). TW-induced alkaline phosphatase (ALP), the marker for liver injury, was enhanced from 22.83 ± 1.29 to 40.73 ± 1.42 King's unit/100 mL (p < 0.01) at day 7. TW-PN-RG decreased the serum ALP of TW-treated rats at 30.15 ± 1.27 King's unit/100 mL (p < 0.01). For nephrotoxicity, TW pronouncedly elevated serum creatinine (SCr) in rats from 20.33 ± 1.77 to 49.82 ± 2.35 μmol/L (p < 0.01). However, rats treated with TW-PN-RG showed lower SCr at 30.48 ± 1.98 μmol/L (p < 0.01). Moreover, TW-PN-RG significantly decreased the TW-induced elevation of total bilirubin (T-BIL), alanine amino transferase (ALT), aspartate amino transferase (AST), blood urea nitrogen (Bun), and reversed the TW-resulted pathohistological characteristics of liver and kidney. The delayed time to reach C_max (T_max) and reduced maximum concentration (C_max) and area under plasma concentration-time curve (AUC) of triptolide and wilforlide A were explored in rats with combinational formulas. Synergism of PN and RG obviously prolonged the half-life (t_1/2) and apparent volume of distribution (V_d), but exerted no action on the clearance rate. The compatibility of TW, PN and RG influences intracorporal process of both triptolide and wilforlide A on the steps of absorption and tissue distribution contributing to less toxicity of TW on liver and kidney.

Investigation of the Effect of the Degree of Processing of Radix Rehmanniae Preparata (Shu Dihuang) on Shu Dihuangtan Carbonization Preparation Technology

Carbonization of Radix Rehmanniae Preparata (Shu Dihuangtan) via stir-frying could increase its homeostasis maintaining and antidiarrheal effects. To ensure these pharmacological functions, the quality of the raw material (processed Rehmanniae Radix) must be well controlled. Therefore, we analyzed the effects of different degrees of processing and adjuvants on processed Rehmanniae Radix (Shu Dihuang) by High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) chromatographic fingerprints, thermal gravimetric analysis and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Based on the results from HPLC fingerprints combined with similarity analysis (SA) and hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) the optimum processing method for Shu Dihuang was five cycles of steaming and polishing, which follows the ancient processing theory. The intensity of thermal weight loss rate peaked near 210.33 ± 4.32 °C or 211.33 ± 2.62 °C, which was an important indicator for the degree of processing of Shu Dihuang. A temperature near 290.89 ± 2.51 °C was the upper limit for carbonizing Shu Dihuangtan. FTIR spectroscopy analysis showed that the overall chemical composition of Shu Dihuangtan was affected by both the degree of processing and adjuvant, which are very important for its quality.

Effect of catalpol on remyelination through experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis acting to promote Olig1 and Olig2 expressions in mice

BACKGROUND

Multiple sclerosis (MS) as an autoimmune disorder is a common disease occurring in central nervous system (CNS) and the remyelination plays a pivotal role in the alleviating neurological impairment in the MS. Catalpol, an effective component extracted from the Chinese herb Radix Rehmanniae, which has been proved protective in cerebral diseases.

METHODS

To determine the protective effects and mechanisms of Catalpol on MS, the mice with experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) were induced by myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) 35-55, as a model for human MS. Th17 cells were counted by flow cytometric (FCM). The expressions of nerve-glial antigen (NG) 2 and myelin basic protein (MBP) were measured by immunohistochemical staining. Olig1+ and Olig2+/BrdU+ cells were counted by immunofluorescence. Olig1 and Olig2 gene expressions were detected by real-time fluorescent quantitative reverse transcription (qRT) -PCR.

RESULTS

The results showed that Catalpol improved neurological function, reduced inflammatory cell infiltration and demyelination. It could decrease Th17 cells in the peripheral blood. It increased the protein expressions of NG2 and MBP in mice brains, up-regulated markedly protein and gene expressions of Olig1 and Olig2 in terms of timing, site and targets.

CONCLUSIONS

These data demonstrated that Catalpol had a strong neuroprotective effect on EAE mice. Catalpol also plays a role in remyelination by promoting the expressions of Olig1 and Olig2 transcription factors.

Rehmanniae Radix in osteoporosis: A review of traditional Chinese medicinal uses, phytochemistry, pharmacokinetics and pharmacology

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Emerging clinical usage and pharmacological effects have been achieved in using Rehmanniae Radix either singly or in combination with other herbs to treat skeletal diseases in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in the recent years. This study is aimed to provide a comprehensive review about the historical TCM interpretation of the action of Rehmanniae Radix in osteoporosis, its usage in clinical trials and osteoporotic models, its main phytochemical constituents, and its pharmacokinetics.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Several databases included PubMed, China Knowledge Resource Integrated Database, China Science and Technology Journal Database, National Science and Technology Library and the Web of Science Database were consulted to locate the publications pertaining to Rehmanniae Radix. The initial inquiry was conducted for the presence of the following terms combinations in the abstracts: Rehmanniae Radix, Dihuang, phytochemistry, pharmacokinetics, osteoporosis, bone, osteoclast and osteoblast. About 330 research papers and reviews were consulted.

RESULTS

In TCM, Rehmanniae Radix exerts the anti-osteoporotic effect via regulating the functions of kidney and liver as well as improving blood circulation. 107 clinical trials are identified that used Rehmanniae Radix in combination with other herbs to treat post-menopausal, senile and secondary osteoporosis. Most of the clinical trials are characterized by high efficacy and no obvious adverse effects. However, the efficacies of these clinical trials are limited because of small patient sample size, short treatment duration and poor clinical design. In addition, TCM herbs under the clinical study are not clear because of a lack of standardization and authentication. The pharmacokinetics data demonstrate that the ingredients of Rehmanniae Radix are widely distributed after administration, and that catalpol and ajugol as well as acetoside are supposed to be the active constituents. More than 140 individual compounds have been currently isolated from this plant and reported to show pleiotropic effects on various diseases. Rehmanniae Radix displays bone protecting features in the osteoporosis models via the delicate balance between osteoclastogenesis and osteoblastogenesis through single herb extracts and its isolated compounds.

CONCLUSIONS

The successful inclusion of Rehmanniae Radix in clinical trials and preclinical studies for the management of osteoporosis has attracted rising attentions for identifying potential anti-osteoporotic candidates from this plant and clinical existing TCM formulas, which will further speed up anti-osteoporosis drug discovery processes. Properly designed and well controlled prospective studies are still needed to further demonstrate bone protective actions and safe use of this herb and its ingredients.

Effects of aqueous extracts of Ecliptae herba, Polygoni multiflori radix praeparata and Rehmanniae radix praeparata on melanogenesis and the migration of human melanocytes

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Polygoni multiflori radix praeparata (PMRP), Ecliptae herba (EH) and Rehmanniae radix praeparata (RRP) are the most frequently-used herbs by Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioners for the treatment of vitiligo. Their abilities to stimulate melanogenesis, melanocyte migration and MITF (microphthalmia associated transcription factor) protein expression were evaluated in this study.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The effects of aqueous extracts of PMRP, EH and RRP on human melanocytes in vitro were examined by MTT assay, tyrosinase activity, melanin synthesis, migration assay and Western blot.

RESULTS

Treatment with EH (at 100μg/ml and 400μg/ml) significantly increased intracellular tyrosinase activity in accordance with the elevation of melanin content at the same concentrations. Treatment with RRP (at 100μg/ml and 400μg/ml) promoted melanin production but had no stimulatory effect on tyrosinase activity. Treatment with PMRP and EH (at 100μg/ml) promoted the migration of human melanocytes in a type IV collagen-coated transwell migration assay. Western blot analysis showed MITF protein expression was elevated by PMRP, EH and RRP (at 100μg/ml).

CONCLUSION

An aqueous extract of EH has a synergistic effect on melanocytes by up-regulating tyrosinase activity, enhancing melanin synthesis and promoting melanocyte migration as well as elevating MITF protein expression. RRP exhibits a significant stimulating effect on melanogenesis and MITF protein expression. These results suggest that EH and RRP contain substances with direct enhancing effects on melanogenesis and migration, possibly via their effects on MITF protein expression.