Salidroside protects pulmonary artery endothelial cells against hypoxia-induced apoptosis via the AhR/NF-κB and Nrf2/HO-1 pathways

BACKGROUND

The apoptosis of pulmonary artery endothelial cells (PAECs) is an important factor contributing to the development of pulmonary hypertension (PH), a serious cardio-pulmonary vascular disorder. Salidroside (SAL) is a bioactive compound derived from an herb Rhodiola, but the potential protective effects of SAL on PAECs and the underlying mechanisms remain elusive.

PURPOSE

The objective of this study was to determine the role of SAL in the hypoxia-induced apoptosis of PAECs and to dissect the underlying mechanisms.

STUDY DESIGN

Male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were subjected to hypoxia (10% O2) for 4 weeks to establish a model of PH. Rats were intraperitoneally injected daily with SAL (2, 8, and 32 mg/kg/d) or vehicle. To define the molecular mechanisms of SAL in PAECs, an in vitro model of hypoxic cell injury was also generated by exposed PAECs to 1% O2 for 48 h.

METHODS

Various techniques including hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining, immunofluorescence, flow cytometry, CCK-8, Western blot, qPCR, molecular docking, and surface plasmon resonance (SPR) were used to determine the role of SAL in rats and in PAECs in vitro.

RESULTS

Hypoxia stimulation increases AhR nuclear translocation and activates the NF-κB signaling pathway, as evidenced by upregulated expression of CYP1A1, CYP1B1, IL-1β, and IL-6, resulting in oxidative stress and inflammatory response and ultimately apoptosis of PAECs. SAL inhibited the activation of AhR and NF-κB, while promoted the nuclear translocation of Nrf2 and increased the expression of its downstream antioxidant proteins HO-1 and NQO1 in PAECs, ameliorating the hypoxia-induced oxidative stress in PAECs. Furthermore, SAL lowered right ventricular systolic pressure, and decreased pulmonary vascular remodeling and right ventricular hypertrophy in hypoxia-exposed rats.

CONCLUSIONS

SAL may attenuate the apoptosis of PAECs by suppressing NF-κB and activating Nrf2/HO-1 pathways, thereby delaying the progressive pathology of PH.

Rhodiola crenulata alleviates hypobaric hypoxia-induced brain injury by maintaining BBB integrity and balancing energy metabolism dysfunction

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

Rhodiola crenulata (Hook. f. et Thoms.) H. Ohba (R. crenulate), a famous and characteristic Tibetan medicine, has been demonstrated to exert an outstanding brain protection role in the treatment of high-altitude hypoxia disease. However, the metabolic effects of R. crenulate on high-altitude hypoxic brain injury (HHBI) are still incompletely understood. Herein, the anti-hypoxic effect and associated mechanisms of R. crenulate were explored through both in vivo and in vitro experiments.

STUDY DESIGN/METHODS

The mice model of HHBI was established using an animal hypobaric and hypoxic chamber. R. crenulate extract (RCE, 0.5, 1.0 and 2.0 g/kg) and salidroside (Sal, 25, 50 and 100 mg/kg) was given by gavage for 7 days. Pathological changes and neuronal apoptosis of mice hippocampus and cortex were evaluated using H&E and TUNEL staining, respectively. The effects of RCE and Sal on the permeability of blood brain barrier (BBB) were detected by Evans blue staining and NIR-II fluorescence imaging. Meanwhile, the ultrastructural BBB and cerebrovascular damages were observed using a transmission electron microscope (TEM). The levels of tight junction proteins Claudin-1, ZO-1 and occludin were detected by immunofluorescence. Additionally, the metabolites in mice serum and brain were determined using UHPLC-MS and MALDI-MSI analysis. The cell viability of Sal on hypoxic HT22 cells induced by CoCl2 was investigated by cell counting kit-8. The contents of LDH, MDA, SOD, GSH-PX and SDH were detected by using commercial biochemical kits. Meanwhile, intracellular ROS, Ca2+ and mitochondrial membrane potential were determined by corresponding specific labeled probes. The intracellular metabolites of HT22 cells were performed by the targeted metabolomics analysis of the Q300 kit. The cell apoptosis and necrosis were examined by YO-PRO-1/PI, Annexin V/PI and TUNEL staining. In addition, mitochondrial morphology was tested by Mito-tracker red with confocal microscopy and TEM. Real-time ATP production, oxygen consumption rate, and proton efflux rate were measured using a Seahorse analyzer. Subsequently, MCU, OPA1, p-Drp1ser616, p-AMPKα, p-AMPKβ and Sirt1 were determined by immunofluorescent and western blot analyses.

RESULTS

The results demonstrated that R. crenulate and Sal exert anti-hypoxic brain protection from inhibiting neuronal apoptosis, maintaining BBB integrity, increasing tight junction protein Claudin-1, ZO-1 and occludin and improving mitochondrial morphology and function. Mechanistically, R. crenulate and Sal alleviated HHBI by enhancing the tricarboxylic acid cycle to meet the demand of energy of brain. Additionally, experiments in vitro confirmed that Sal could ameliorate the apoptosis of HT22 cells, improve mitochondrial morphology and energy metabolism by enhancing mitochondrial respiration and glycolysis. Meanwhile, Sal-mediated MCU inhibited the activation of Drp1 and enhanced the expression of OPA1 to maintain mitochondrial homeostasis, as well as activation of AMPK and Sirt1 to enhance ATP production.

CONCLUSION

Collectively, the findings suggested that RCE and Sal may afford a protective intervention in HHBI through maintaining BBB integrity and improving energy metabolism via balancing MCU-mediated mitochondrial homeostasis by activating the AMPK/Sirt1 signaling pathway.

Salidroside pretreatment alleviates ferroptosis induced by myocardial ischemia/reperfusion through mitochondrial superoxide-dependent AMPKα2 activation

BACKGROUND

Ferroptosis, a form of regulated cell death (RCD) that relies on excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, Fe2+accumulation, abnormal lipid metabolism and is involved in various organ ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury, expecially in myocardium. Mitochondria are the powerhouses of eukaryotic cells and essential in regulating multiple RCD. However, the links between mitochondria and ferroptosis are still poorly understood. Salidroside (Sal), a natural phenylpropanoid glycoside isolated from Rhodiola rosea, has mult-bioactivities. However, the effects and mechanism in alleviating ferroptosis caused by myocardial I/R injury remains unclear.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to investigate whether pretreated with Sal could protect the myocardium against I/R damage and the underlying mechanisms. In particular, the relationship between Sal pretreatment, AMPKα2 activity, mitochondria and ROS generation was explored.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Firstly, A/R or I/R injury models were employed in H9c2 cells and Sprague-Dawley rats. And then the anti-ferroptotic effects and mechanism of Sal pretreatment was detected using multi-relevant indexes in H9c2 cells. Further, how does Sal pretreatment in AMPKα2 phosphorylation was explored. Finally, these results were validated by I/R injury in rats.

RESULTS

Similar to Ferrostatin-1 (a ferroptosis inhibitor) and MitoTEMPO, a mitochondrial free radical scavenger, Sal pretreatment effectively alleviated Fe2+ accumulation, redox disequilibrium and maintained mitochondrial energy production and function in I/R-induced myocardial injury, as demonstrated using multifunctional, enzymatic, and morphological indices. However, these effects were abolished by downregulation of AMPKα2 using an adenovirus, both in vivo and in vitro. Moreover, the results also provided a non-canonical mechanism that, under mild mitochondrial ROS generation, Sal pretreatment upregulated and phosphorylated AMPKα2, which enhanced mitochondrial complex I activity to activate innate adaptive responses and increase cellular tolerance to A/R injury.

CONCLUSION

Overall, our work highlighted mitochondria are of great impotance in myocardial I/R-induced ferroptosis and demonstrated that Sal pretreatment activated AMPKα2 against I/R injury, indicating that Sal could become a candidate phytochemical for the treatment of myocardial I/R injury.

A New Quinazolinone Alkaloid along with Known Compounds with Seed-Germination-Promoting Activity from Rhodiola tibetica Endophytic Fungus Penicillium sp. HJT-A-6

A new quinazolinone alkaloid named peniquinazolinone A (1), as well as eleven known compounds, 2-(2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionamido)-N-methylbenzamide (2), viridicatin (3), viridicatol (4), (±)-cyclopeptin (5a/5b), dehydrocyclopeptin (6), cyclopenin (7), cyclopenol (8), methyl-indole-3-carboxylate (9), 2,5-dihydroxyphenyl acetate (10), methyl m-hydroxyphenylacetate (11), and conidiogenone B (12), were isolated from the endophytic Penicillium sp. HJT-A-6. The chemical structures of all the compounds were elucidated by comprehensive spectroscopic analysis, including 1D and 2D NMR and HRESIMS. The absolute configuration at C-13 of peniquinazolinone A (1) was established by applying the modified Mosher's method. Compounds 2, 3, and 7 exhibited an optimal promoting effect on the seed germination of Rhodiola tibetica at a concentration of 0.01 mg/mL, while the optimal concentration for compounds 4 and 9 to promote Rhodiola tibetica seed germination was 0.001 mg/mL. Compound 12 showed optimal seed-germination-promoting activity at a concentration of 0.1 mg/mL. Compared with the positive drug 6-benzyladenine (6-BA), compounds 2, 3, 4, 7, 9, and 12 could extend the seed germination period of Rhodiola tibetica up to the 11th day.

Discovery of a botanical compound as a broad-spectrum inhibitor against gut microbial β-glucuronidases from the Tibetan medicine Rhodiola crenulata

Gut microbial β-glucuronidases (gmβ-GUS) played crucial roles in regulating a variety of endogenous substances and xenobiotics on the circulating level, thus had been recognized as key modulators of drug toxicity and human diseases. Inhibition or inactivation of gmβ-GUS enzymes has become a promising therapeutic strategy to alleviate drug-induced intestinal toxicity. Herein, the Rhodiola crenulata extract (RCE) was found with potent and broad-spectrum inhibition on multiple gmβ-GUS enzymes. Subsequently, the anti-gmβ-GUS activities of the major constituents in RCE were tested and the results showed that 1,2,3,4,6-penta-O-galloyl-β-d-glucopyranose (PGG) acted as a strong and broad-spectrum inhibitor on multiple gmβ-GUS (including EcGUS, CpGUS, SaGUS, and EeGUS). Inhibition kinetic assays demonstrated that PGG effectively inhibited four gmβ-GUS in a non-competitive manner, with the Ki values ranging from 0.12 μM to 1.29 μM. Docking simulations showed that PGG could tightly bound to the non-catalytic sites of various gmβ-GUS, mainly via hydrogen bonding and aromatic interactions. It was also found that PGG could strongly inhibit the total gmβ-GUS activity in mice feces, with the IC50 value of 1.24 μM. Collectively, our findings revealed that RCE and its constituent PGG could strongly inhibit multiple gmβ-GUS enzymes, suggesting that RCE and PGG could be used for alleviating gmβ-GUS associated enterotoxicity.

Neuromodulatory Effects Induced by the Association of Moringa oleifera Lam., Tribulus terrestris L., Rhodiola rosea Lam., and Undaria pinnatidifida Extracts in the Hypothalamus

The present study investigated the role of a commercial formulation constituted by herbal extracts from Rhodiola rosea, Undaria pinnatifida, Tribulus terrestris, and Moringa oleifera. The formulation was analysed for determining the content in total phenols and flavonoids and scavenging/reducing properties. The formulation was also tested on isolated mouse hypothalamus in order to investigate effects on serotonin, dopamine, neuropeptide Y (NPY), and orexin A. The gene expression of gonadrotopin releasing hormone (GnRH) was also assayed. The formulation was able to reduce dopamine and serotonin turnover, and this could be related, albeit partially, to the capability of different phytochemicals, among which hyperoside and catechin to inhibit monoaminooxidases activity. In parallel, the formulation was effective in reducing the gene expression of NPY and orexin-A and to improve the gene expression of GnRH. In this context, the increased GnRH gene expression induced by the formulation may contribute not only to improve the resistance towards the stress related to ageing, but also to prevent the reduction of libido that could be related with a stimulation of the serotoninergic pathway. According to the in silico analysis, hyperoside could play a pivotal role in modulating the gene expression of GnRH. Regarding NPY and orexin A gene expression, no direct interactions between the formulation phytochemicals and these neuropeptides were anticipated; thus, suggesting that the pattern of gene expression observed following exposure of the hypothalamus to the formulation may be secondary to inhibitory effects of dopamine and serotonin turnover. Concluding, the present study demonstrated the efficacy of the formulation in exerting neuromodulatory effects at the hypothalamic level; thus, suggesting the potential to contrast stress and fatigue.

Rhodiola rosea as an adaptogen to enhance exercise performance: a review of the literature

Rhodiola rosea (RR) is a plant whose bioactive components may function as adaptogens, thereby increasing resistance to stress and improving overall resilience. Some of these effects may influence exercise performance and adaptations. Based on studies of rodents, potential mechanisms for the ergogenic effects of RR include modulation of energy substrate stores and use, reductions in fatigue and muscle damage and altered antioxidant activity. At least sixteen investigations in humans have explored the potential ergogenicity of RR. These studies indicate acute RR supplementation (∼200 mg RR containing ∼1 % salidroside and ∼3 % rosavin, provided 60 min before exercise) may prolong time-to-exhaustion and improve time trial performance in recreationally active males and females, with limited documented benefits of chronic supplementation. Recent trials providing higher doses (∼1500 to 2400 mg RR/d for 4–30 d) have demonstrated ergogenic effects during sprints on bicycle ergometers and resistance training in trained and untrained adults. The effects of RR on muscle damage, inflammation, energy system modulation, antioxidant activity and perceived exertion are presently equivocal. Collectively, it appears that adequately dosed RR enhances dimensions of exercise performance and related outcomes for select tasks. However, the current literature does not unanimously show that RR is ergogenic. Variability in supplementation dose and duration, concentration of bioactive compounds, participant characteristics, exercise tests and statistical considerations may help explain these disparate findings. Future research should build on the longstanding use of RR and contemporary clinical trials to establish the conditions in which supplementation facilitates exercise performance and adaptations.

Field Collection and Laboratory Routine Identification of Rhodiola crenulata

The identification of medicinal materials is the premise and guarantee of drug safety. The majority of scientific researchers are bound to favor the simple, fast, effective, and inexpensive identification process of herbals. Rhodiola crenulata is a traditional Tibetan medicine grown at high altitudes, mainly distributed in Tibet, Yunnan, and Sichuan regions of China. Rhodiola crenulate possesses multiple bioactivities, such as anti-inflammatory, anti-hypoxia, and antioxidant properties, and has great potential for development. With the increasing market demand and a rapid decrease in resource content, a large number of confused products of Rhodiola crenulata have been troubling people. Therefore, this protocol introduces a standard process for the identification of Rhodiola crenulata in the field combined with routine laboratory testing. The combination of habitat, microscopic features, and thin-layer chromatography will undoubtedly identify Rhodiola crenulata quickly, efficiently, and economically, contributing to the continuous development of Tibetan medicine and the quality control of medicinal materials.

Morphometric Characteristics and Genetic Issr Marker Variability in Rhodiola rosea L. (Crassulaceae) in Different Ecological and Geographic Conditions in the Altai Republic

Rhodiola rosea L. is a vulnerable species in the Altai Republic (AR) and Russia in general. For the first time on the territory of AR, studies of the adaptive capabilities of the species and genetic differentiation using ISSR markers were carried out in seven cenopopulations (CP) of R. rosea in 2018 and 2020. The research was founded on the notion of conducting a comparative analysis of the morphogenetic structure of Rhodiola rosea populations in various ecological and geographical conditions of AR. The aim of this work is to evaluate the variability of morphometric traits of sexually mature living female R. rosea plants and to conduct a comparative analysis of genetic variability in cenopopulations (CP) both under undisturbed conditions and under stressful conditions of anthropogenic impact (grazing). Of the 8 primers used, HB12 turned out to be the most informative. The percentage of polymorphic loci in the populations between 0 and 88%. Two populations, located in favorable conditions at relatively low absolute altitudes (2000 m above sea level) (masl) in the undisturbed habitats of the Katun and Altai reserves of AR, were characterized by higher polymorphism. The share of polymorphic loci reached 80%. According to the analysis of statistical data, the highest values of morphometric parameters of the aerial parts of R. rosea plants and the highest potential seed productivity were also recorded in these habitats. Representatives of two high-mountain CPs (2400-2500 masl) in the Sailyugemsky National Park (SNP) were characterized by the lowest genetic polymorphism. Their genetic structure is the most homogeneous, since we have not found polymorphic loci. Due to spatial isolation, these individuals are reliably genetically differentiated. In addition, individuals of one type were subjected to stressful anthropogenic impact (grazing). Therefore, the smallest sizes and lowest potential seed productivity were recorded. Our research shows that alpine populations of R. rosea in AR, under conditions of anthropogenic stress, need protection for their gene pool.

Anti-senescence effects of Rhodiola crenulate extracts on LO2 cells and bioactive compounds

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Rhodiola crenulata (Rc) is a traditional herb, used in Tibetan medicine, has shown promise efficacy in physical performance improvement, work capacity enhancement, fatigue elimination, and altitude sickness prevention. Also, Rc exhibited therapeutic effects on aging-related diseases. However, relevant researches on Rc and their bioactive components are quite few and needs further investigation.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The objective of this study was to understand the relationship between phytochemical profiles and their activities of Rc extracts.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Rc extracts prepared by solvents with various hydrophilicity (i.e. aqueous ethanol (70%, v/v), water, and ethyl acetate), and their chemical compositions and specific compounds were analyzed by chemical analysis method and ultra-performance liquid chromatography quadruple time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-QTOF-MS). The regulate effects of Rc extracts on senescence and antioxidant activity were evaluated using the models of LO₂ cells and Caenorhabditis elegans.

RESULTS

The 70% ethanol extracts exhibited better regulating effects on senescence via the assays of senescence -associated β-galactosidase (SAβG) staining and lifespan, which was consistent with the higher antioxidant activities observed based on the results of antioxidant assays. A total of 14 phytochemicals have been identified in 70% ethanol extracts, whereas the other two extracts contained much fewer compounds in varieties. Phytochemical profile of water extract was similar to the first half (polar compounds, running time: 0-6 min) of 70% ethanol extract profile, while those of ethyl acetate extract was consistent with its second half (more nonpolar compounds, running time: 6-12 min).

CONCLUSIONS

The 14 phytochemicals in Rc might exhibit additive or synergistic effects on senescence regulating and antioxidant activities, providing theoretical basis for daily administration of Rc.

Geraniol-Derived Monoterpenoid Glucosides from Rhodiola rosea: Resolving Structures by QM-HifSA Methodology

Monoterpenoids are integral to the chemical composition of the widely used adaptogenic dietary supplement Rhodiola rosea. The present study expands the chemical space and stereochemical information about these taxon-specific constituents from the isolation and characterization of five geraniol-derived glucosides, 1-5. While 1 and 2 exhibited almost identical NMR spectra and shared the same 2D structure ascribed to the 4-hydroxygeraniolglucoside previously described as rosiridin, the NMR-based Mosher ester method revealed the enantiomeric nature of their aglycone moieties. This marks the first report of enantiomeric aglycones among geraniol derivatives. These findings also resolve the long-standing dispute regarding the absolute configuration of rosiridin and congeneric C-4 hydroxylated geraniols and may help explain incongruent bioactivity reports of R. rosea extract. Moreover, the three previously undescribed geranioloids 3-5 were fully characterized by extensive spectroscopic analysis. Quantum mechanics-driven 1H iterative functionalized spin analysis (QM-HifSA) was performed for all isolates and provides detailed NMR spin parameters, with adequate decimal place precision, which enable the distinction of such close congeners exhibiting near identical NMR spectra with high specificity. The outcomes also reinforce the importance of reporting chemical shifts and coupling constants with adequate decimal place precision as a means of achieving specificity and reproducibility in structural analysis.

Synergistic Effect of Rhodiola rosea and Caffeine Supplementation on the Improvement of Muscle Strength and Muscular Endurance: A Pilot Study for Rats, Resistance Exercise-Untrained and -Trained Volunteers

Multi-level studies have shown that Rhodiola rosea (RHO) and Caffeine (CAF) have the potential to be nutritional supplements to enhance physical performance in resistance exercise-untrained and -trained subjects. This study examined the synergistic effects of RHO (262.7 mg/kg for rats and 2.4 g for volunteers) and CAF (19.7 mg/kg for rats and 3 mg/kg for volunteers) supplementation on improving physical performance in rats, resistance exercise-untrained volunteers and resistance exercise-trained volunteers. Rats and volunteers were randomly grouped into placebo, CAF, RHO and CAF+RHO and administered accordingly with the nutrients during the training procedure, and pre- and post-measures were collected. We found that RHO+CAF was effective in improving forelimb grip strength (13.75%), erythropoietin (23.85%), dopamine (12.65%) and oxygen consumption rate (9.29%) in the rat model. Furthermore, the current results also indicated that the combination of RHO+CAF significantly increased the bench press one-repetition maximum (1RM) (16.59%), deep squat 1RM (15.75%), maximum voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) (14.72%) and maximum repetitions of 60% 1RM bench press (22.15%) in resistance exercise-untrained volunteers. Additionally, despite the excellent base level of the resistance exercise-trained volunteers, their deep squat 1RM and MVIC increased substantially through the synergistic effect of RHO and CAF. In conclusion, combined supplementation of RHO+CAF is more beneficial in improving the resistance exercise performance for both resistance exercise-untrained and -trained volunteers. The present results provide practical evidence that the synergies of RHO and CAF could serve as potential supplementary for individuals, especially resistance exercise-trained subjects, to ameliorate their physical performances effectively and safely.

Chemical Profiling and Biological Activity of Extracts from Nine Norwegian Medicinal and Aromatic Plants

There is an increased interest in identifying beneficial compounds of plant origin that can be added to animal diets to improve animal performance and have a health-promoting effect. In the present study, nine herb species of the Norwegian wild flora or which can be cultivated in Norway were selected for phytogenic evaluation (hops, maral root, mint, oregano, purslane, rosemary, roseroot, sweet wormwood, yarrow). Dried herbs were sequentially extracted with dichloromethane (DCM), ethanol (EtOH) and finally water (H₂O) by ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE). The UAE protocol was found to be more rational than conventional Soxhlet with respect to DCM extraction. Total extraction yield was found to be highest for oregano (Origanum vulgare) with 34.4 g 100⁻¹ g dry matter (DM). H₂O-extracts gave the highest yields of the three solvents, with up to 25 g 100⁻¹ g DM for purslane (Portulaca oleracea ssp. sativa) and mint (Mentha piperita). EtOH- and H₂O-extracts were the most efficient extracts with respect to free radical scavenging capacity (ABTS (=2,2-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid), and oregano, mint, hops (Humulus lupulus) and maral root-leaves (Leuzea carthamoides) were found to be the most efficient antioxidant sources. Hops (EtOH-extract) contained α- and β-acids, xanthohumols, chlorogenic acid and the hitherto unreported 3-O-glucosides of kaempferol and quercetin. Maral root-leaves contained among other compounds hexosides of the 6-hydroxy- and 6-methoxy-kaempferol and -quercetin, whereas roseroot (Rosea rhodiola) revealed contents of rosavin, rhodiosin and rhodionin. Sweet wormwood (Artemisia annua) contained chlorogenic acid and several derivatives thereof, scopoletin and poly-methylated flavones (eupatin, casticin, chrysoplenetin). Antimicrobial potential of different plant extracts was demonstrated against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria using the indicator organisms Staphylococcus aureus, and Escherichia coli, and the Atlantic salmon bacterial pathogens Moritella viscosa, Tenacibaculum finnmarkense and Aliivibrio wodanis. DCM extracts possessed the highest activities. Data demonstrate the potential ability of herb extracts as natural antimicrobials. However, future safety studies should be performed to elucidate any compromising effect on fish health.

Chemical characteristics of Rhodiola Crenulata and its mechanism in acute mountain sickness using UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS combined with network pharmacology analysis

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Rhodiola crenulata (Hook.f. & Thomson) H.Ohba has a long history of clinical application for the prevention and treatment of acute mountain sickness (AMS) in traditional Chinese medicine. However, gaps in knowledge still exist in understanding the underlying mechanisms of Rhodiola crenulata against AMS.

AIMS

To address this problem, a comprehensive method was established by combining UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS analysis and network pharmacology.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The ingredients of Rhodiola crenulata were comprehensively analyzed using UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS method. On this basis, a network pharmacology method incorporated target prediction, protein-protein interaction network, gene enrichment analysis and components-targets-pathways network was performed. Finally, the possible mechanisms were verified through molecular docking, in vitro and in vivo experiments.

RESULTS

A total of 106 constituents of Rhodiola crenulata were charactered via UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS. The 98 potentially active compounds out of 106 were screened and corresponded to 53 anti-AMS targets. Gene enrichment analysis revealed that hypoxia and inflammation related genes may be the central factors for Rhodiola crenulata to modulate AMS. Molecular docking revealed that TNF, VEGFA and HIF-1α had high affinities to Rhodiola crenulata compounds. Subsequently, Rhodiola crenulata extract was indicated to inhibit the protein expression level of TNF in hypoxia induced H9c2 cells. Lastly, Rhodiola crenulata extract was further verified to ameliorate heart injury and decreased the heart levels of TNF, VEGFA and HIF-1α in acute hypoxia-induced rats.

CONCLUSIONS

This study used UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS analysis and a network pharmacology to provide an important reference for revealing the potential mechanism of Rhodiola crenulata in the prevention and treatment of AMS.

Salidroside, a phenyl ethanol glycoside from Rhodiola crenulata, orchestrates hypoxic mitochondrial dynamics homeostasis by stimulating Sirt1/p53/Drp1 signaling

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Rhodiola crenulata is clinically used to combat hypobaric hypoxia brain injury at high altitude with the function of invigorating Qi and promoting blood circulation in Tibetan medicine. Salidroside (Sal), an active compound identified from Rhodiola species, has been shown to exert neuroprotective effects against hypoxic brain injury. However, its mitochondrial protective mechanisms remain largely unknown.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The present study aimed to explore the mitochondrial protection of Sal and the involved mechanisms related to mitochondrial dynamics homeostasis on hypoxia-induced injury of HT22 cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Hypoxic condition was performed as cells cultured in a tri-gas incubator with 1% O₂, 5% CO₂ and 94% N₂. We firstly investigated the effects of different concentrations of Sal on the viability of normal or hypoxic HT22 cells. Whereafter, the levels of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and Na⁺-K⁺-ATPase were tested by commercial kits. Meanwhile, mitochondrial superoxide, intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) were determined by specific labeled probes. Mitochondrial morphology was detected by mito-tracker green with confocal microscopy. Additionally, the potential interactions of Sal with Sirt1/p53/Drp1 signaling pathway-related proteins were predicted and tested by molecular docking and localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) techniques, respectively. Furthermore, the protein levels of Sirt1, p53, ac-p53, Drp1, p-Drp1(s616), Fis1 and Mfn2 were estimated by western blot analysis.

RESULTS

Sal alleviated hypoxia-induced oxidative stress in HT22 cells as evidenced by increased cell viability and SOD activity, while decreased LDH release and MDA content. The protected mitochondrial function by Sal treatment was indicated by the increases of ATP level, Na⁺-K⁺-ATPase activity and MMP. Miraculously, Sal reduced hypoxia-induced mitochondrial fission, while increased mitochondrial tubular or linear morphology. The results of molecular docking and LSPR confirmed the potential binding of Sal to proteins Sirt1, p53, Fis1 and Mfn2 with affinity values 1.38 × 10^-2, 5.26 × 10^-3, 6.46 × 10^-3 and 7.26 × 10^-3 KD, respectively. And western blot analysis further demonstrated that Sal memorably raised the levels of Sirt1 and Mfn2, while decreased the levels of ac-p53, Drp1, p-Drp1 (s616) and Fis1.

CONCLUSION

Collectively, our data confirm that Sal can maintain mitochondrial dynamics homeostasis by activating the Sirt1/p53/Drp1 signaling pathway.

Pretreatment with the active fraction of Rhodiola tangutica (Maxim.) S.H. Fu rescues hypoxia-induced potassium channel inhibition in rat pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Previous studies have shown that the active fraction of Rhodiola tangutica (Maxim.) S.H. Fu (ACRT) dilates pulmonary arteries and thwarts pulmonary artery remodelling. The dilatation effect of ACRT on pulmonary artery vascular rings could be reduced by potassium (K⁺) channel blockers. However the exact mechanisms of ACRT on ion channels are still unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to investigate whether the effect of ACRT on K⁺ channels inhibits cell proliferation after pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMCs) are exposed to hypoxia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The whole-cell patch-clamp method was used to clarify the effect of ACRT on the K⁺ current (I_K) of rat PASMCs exposed to hypoxia. The mRNA and protein expression levels were detected using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and western blotting, respectively. The intracellular calcium (Ca²⁺) concentration ([Ca²⁺]_i) values in rat PASMCs were detected by laser scanning confocal microscopy. The cell cycle and cell proliferation were assessed using flow cytometry analysis and CCK-8 and EdU assays.

RESULTS

ACRT pretreatment alleviated the inhibition of I_K induced by hypoxia in rat PASMCs. Compared with hypoxia, ACRT upregulated voltage-dependent K⁺ channel (K_v) 1.5 and big-conductance calcium-activated K⁺ channel (BK_Ca) mRNA and protein expression and downregulated voltage-dependent Ca²⁺ channel (Ca_v) 1.2 mRNA and protein expression. ACRT decreased [Ca²⁺]_i, inhibited the promotion of cyclin D1 and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) expression, and prevented the proliferation of rat PASMCs exposed to hypoxia.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the present study demonstrated that ACRT plays a key role in restoring ion channel function and then inhibiting the proliferation of PASMCs under hypoxia, ACRT has preventive and therapeutic potential in hypoxic pulmonary hypertension.

Altitudinal Variation of Metabolites, Mineral Elements and Antioxidant Activities of Rhodiola crenulata (Hook.f. & Thomson) H.Ohba

Rhodiolacrenulata (Hook.f. & Thomson) H.Ohba is an alpine medicinal plant that can survive in extreme high altitude environments. However, its changes to extreme high altitude are not yet clear. In this study, the response of Rhodiola crenulata to differences in altitude gradients was investigated through chemical, ICP-MS and metabolomic methods. A targeted study of Rhodiola crenulata growing at three vertical altitudes revealed that the contents of seven elements Ca, Sr, B, Mn, Ni, Cu, and Cd, the phenolic components, the ascorbic acid, the ascorbic acid/dehydroascorbate ratio, and the antioxidant capacity were positively correlated with altitude, while the opposite was true for total ascorbic acid content. Furthermore, 1165 metabolites were identified: flavonoids (200), gallic acids (30), phenylpropanoids (237), amino acids (100), free fatty acids and glycerides (56), nucleotides (60), as well as other metabolites (482). The differential metabolite and biomarker analyses suggested that, with an increasing altitude: (1) the shikimic acid-phenylalanine-phenylpropanoids-flavonoids pathway was enhanced, with phenylpropanoids upregulating biomarkers much more than flavonoids; phenylpropanes and phenylmethanes upregulated, and phenylethanes downregulated; the upregulation of quercetin was especially significant in flavonoids; upregulation of condensed tannins and downregulation of hydrolyzed tannins; upregulation of shikimic acids and amino acids including phenylalanine. (2) significant upregulation of free fatty acids and downregulation of glycerides; and (3) upregulation of adenosine phosphates. Our findings provide new insights on the responses of Rhodiola crenulata to extreme high altitude adversity.

Salidroside orchestrates metabolic reprogramming by regulating the Hif-1α signalling pathway in acute mountain sickness

CONTEXT

Rhodiola crenulata (Hook. f. et Thoms.) H. Ohba (Crassulaceae) is used to prevent and treat acute mountain sickness. However, the mechanisms underlying its effects on the central nervous system remain unclear.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of Rhodiola crenulata on cellular metabolism in the central nervous system.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The viability and Hif-1α levels of microglia and neurons at 5% O₂ for 1, 3, 5 and 24 h were examined. We performed the binding of salidroside (Sal), rhodiosin, tyrosol and p-hydroxybenzyl alcohol to Hif-1α, Hif-1α, lactate, oxidative phosphorylation and glycolysis assays. Forty male C57BL/6J mice were divided into control and Sal (25, 50 and 100 mg/kg) groups to measure the levels of Hif-1α and lactate.

RESULTS

Microglia sensed low oxygen levels earlier than neurons, accompanied by elevated expression of Hif-1α protein. Salidroside, rhodiosin, tyrosol, and p-hydroxybenzyl alcohol decreased BV-2 (IC₅₀=1.93 ± 0.34 mM, 959.74 ± 10.24 μM, 7.47 ± 1.03 and 8.42 ± 1.63 mM) and PC-12 (IC₅₀=6.89 ± 0.57 mM, 159.28 ± 8.89 μM, 8.65 ± 1.20 and 8.64 ± 1.42 mM) viability. They (10 μM) reduced Hif-1α degradation in BV-2 (3.7-, 2.5-, 2.9- and 2.5-fold) and PC-12 cells (2.8-, 2.8-, 2.3- and 2.0-fold) under normoxia. Salidroside increased glycolytic capacity but attenuated oxidative phosphorylation. Salidroside (50 and 100 mg/kg) treatment increased the protein expression of Hif-1α and the release of lactate in the brain tissue of mice.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that Sal induces metabolic reprogramming by regulating the Hif-1α signalling pathway to activate compensatory responses, which may be the core mechanism underlying the effect of Rhodiola crenulata on the central nervous system.

Salidroside protects against ventilation-induced lung injury by inhibiting the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-9

CONTEXT

Salidroside, a compound extracted from Rhodiola rosea L. (Crassulaceae), possesses many beneficial pathological effects.

OBJECTIVE

To explore the effect of salidroside on ventilator-induced lung endothelial dysfunction in vivo and in vitro.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In vivo, male ICR mice were divided into sham, ventilation, salidroside, and ventilation plus salidroside groups. The mice were ventilated for 4 h, salidroside (50 mg/kg) was administrated intraperitoneally before ventilation, dexamethasone (Dex) (5 mg/kg) was used as a positive control. In vitro, mouse lung vascular endothelial cells (MLVECs) were treated with salidroside, MMP-9 siRNA, and BAY11-7082 (10 μM), and then exposed to cyclic stretch for 4 h. Afterward, lung tissues and MLVECs were collected for further analysis.

RESULTS

Salidroside pre-treatment significantly reversed the expression of vascular endothelial cadherin (VE-cadherin) and zonula occluden-1 (ZO-1) proteins in cyclic stretch-treated MLVECs (0.46 ± 0.09 vs. 0.80 ± 0.14, 0.49 ± 0.05 vs. 0.88 ± 0.08) and ventilated lung tissues (0.56 ± 0.06 vs. 0.83 ± 0.46, 0.49 ± 0.08 vs. 0.80 ± 0.12). The results further indicated that salidroside inhibited the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), whereas knockdown of its expression restored the expression levels of VE-cadherin (0.37 ± 0.08 vs. 0.85 ± 0.74) and ZO-1 (0.48 ± 0.08 vs. 0.81 ± 0.11) in stretched MLVECs. Meanwhile, salidroside inhibited the NF-κB signalling pathway and alleviated lung injury.

CONCLUSIONS

Salidroside protected against stretch-induced endothelial barrier function, improving lung injury after ventilation. Thus, salidroside may be a promising therapeutic agent for patients with MV-induced lung injury.

Salidroside Induces Apoptosis in Human Gastric Cancer Cells via the Downregulation of ENO1/PKM2/GLUT1 Expression

Salidroside is reported to have a wide range of pharmacological properties and has been proven to play a key anti-cancer effect. This study investigated the effects of purified salidroside, an ingredient of Rhodiola rosea, on the proliferation of two human gastric cancer cell lines and further investigating its possible molecular mechanisms. We verified that salidroside exerts a dose-dependent inhibitory effect on the proliferation of SGC-7901 and MKN-45 human gastric cancer cells. Moreover, salidroside can induce cell apoptosis, which was accompanied by an increase in nuclear fragmentation. In addition, salidroside inhibited glycolysis, as evidenced by the reduced expression levels of the glycolysis-related enzymes pyruvate kinase isoenzyme M2 (PKM2), enolase 1 (ENO1) and glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1), which could play important roles in the metabolism of gastric cancer cells. Further investigation showed that salidroside exerted potent anti-proliferative effects by inhibiting glycolysis in human gastric cancer cells in vitro. In vivo, xenograft tumors treated with salidroside were significantly smaller than those in the control animals. Therefore, salidroside could be a promising therapeutic prospect in the treatment of gastric cancer.

Salidroside attenuates acute lung injury via inhibition of inflammatory cytokine production

Acute lung injury is a fatal condition characterized by excessive inflammation responses. Salidroside, the active constituent of Rhodiola rosea, possesses properties including anti-oxidation, anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, anti-hypoxia, and anti-cancer activities. In the present study, Salidroside attenuated acute lung injury via inhibition of inflammatory cytokine production. Rats pre-treated with Salidroside showed attenuated lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced pathological damage and suppressed tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFα) and interleukin 6 (IL-6) secretion in the lung. Furthermore, flow cytometry showed that Salidroside reduced the production of TNFα and IL-6 in NR8383 alveolar macrophages. These findings suggest that Salidroside may attenuate LPS-induced acute lung injury.

Rhodiola crenulata protects against Alzheimer's disease in rats: A brain lipidomics study by Fourier-transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry coupled with high-performance reversed-phase liquid chromatography and hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography

RATIONALE

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a chronic, severe, progressive neurodegenerative disorder associated with cognitive and memory impairment that ultimately causes death. Most approved drugs can only alleviate some of the symptoms of AD, but no interventions have been found that reverse the underlying disease mechanisms. Rhodiola crenulata extract (RCE) has been reported to alleviate AD symptoms in rats. However, its underlying mechanism of action is still unclear.

METHODS

A brain lipidomics study was conducted to investigate the protective effects of RCE against AD in rats to identify potential biomarkers of AD using Fourier-transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FT-ICR MS) coupled with high-performance reversed-phase liquid chromatography (RPLC) and hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography (HILIC). Differences in lipid metabolism profiles were evaluated using multivariate statistical analysis. Finally, the possible mechanism of action of RCE on AD was investigated by analysing metabolic pathways.

RESULTS

The RPLCHILIC/FT-ICR MS results showed 20 lipid components with significant differences between the control and model groups. After administration of RCE, the levels of 10 lipids in AD rats tended to shift toward reference levels. The pathway analysis revealed that the protective effect of RCE against AD might be related to regulation of glycerophospholipid metabolism.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides a novel perspective on the potential intervention mechanism of RCE in the treatment of AD.

Systems pharmacology unravels the synergic target space and therapeutic potential of Rhodiola rosea L. for non-small cell lung cancer

BACKGROUND

Lung cancer is the most common and mortal cancer worldwide. Rhodiola rosea L. (RR), a well-known traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), has been turned out to be effective in anti-lung cancer therapy, but its molecular mechanism of action has not been clearly understood.

PURPOSE

In this study, we aimed to elucidate the possible molecular mechanism underlying the effect of RR against non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) by systems pharmacology.

METHODS

The effects of RR on NSCLC were examined in Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC) tumor-bearing mice models. The possible molecular mechanism was unraveled by systems pharmacology, which includes pharmacokinetics evaluation, active compounds screening, target prediction and network analysis. Cell proliferation was examined by cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay; cell apoptosis was detected by flow cytometry; protein and proinflammatory cytokines expression were evaluated by Western blot and qRT-PCR.

RESULTS

In vivo, RR significantly inhibited the tumor growth and prolonged the survival of the tumor bearing mice. In silico, we identified 19 potential active molecules (e.g., salidroside and rhodiosin), 112 targets (e.g., COX-2 and AKT) and 27 pathways (e.g., PI3K/AKT signaling pathway and NF-κB signaling pathway) for RR. Additionally, targets analysis and networks construction further revealed that RR exerted anti-cancer effects by regulating apoptosis, angiogenesis and inflammation. In vitro, salidroside could significantly decrease expression of pro-angiogenic factors (e.g., VEGF and eNOS) and proinflammatory cytokines (e.g., COX-2, iNOS and TNF-α). Also, Bcl-2, an anti-apoptotic protein was decreased whereas Bax, a pro-apoptotic protein, was increased. Further flow cytometry analysis showed that salidroside could induce apoptosis in H1975 cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Mechanistically, the antitumor effect of RR on NSCLC was responsible for the synergy among anti-inflammatory, anti-angiogenic and pro-apoptotic.

Ganoderma lucidum Rhodiola compound preparation prevent D-galactose-induced immune impairment and oxidative stress in aging rat model

Aging is an irreversible process. This research aims to study the anti-aging effects of GRCP, a compound preparation made by Ganoderma lucidum and Rhodiola rosen, in aging rats. Rats were subcutaneously injected with 400 mg/kg of D-galactose daily, and aging could be induced after 8 weeks. The aging rats were treated with GRCP. This experiment was divided into 6 groups. Rats were randomly divided into the model group, positive control group, low-dose GRCP group (25 mg/kg body weight), medium-dose GRCP group (50 mg/kg body weight), and high-dose GRCP group (100 mg/kg body weight), healthy and normal rats were used as blank controls. After the end, the results show that the use of GRCP at a dose of 100 mg/kg is the best treatment for improving aging rats. Rats gained weight, spleen and thymus indexes, and splenocyte proliferation improved, and inflammatory cytokine levels decreased. Besides, biochemical indicators show that GRCP can improve the antioxidant enzyme activity and reduce the content of lipofuscin and TGF-β in aging rats (P < 0.05). GRCP can also inhibit the activation of the MyD88/NF-κB pathway in rat hippocampus. These results seem to suggest that GRCP can be used as a potential natural supplement or functional food to prevent aging.

Regulation by fungal endophyte of Rhodiola crenulata from enzyme genes to metabolites based on combination of transcriptome and metabolome

BACKGROUND

The contents of some its crucial metabolites tend to decrease when Rhodiola crenulata is cultured at low altitude. Interestingly, it was found that an endophyte, Phialocephala fortinii, could alleviate this problem.

RESULTS

There were 16 151 differential genes including 14 706 up-regulated and 1445 down-regulated unigenes with significant differences (P < 0.05), and a total of 1432 metabolites exhibited statistically significant (P < 0.05) metabolic differences comprising 27 different marker metabolites which showed highly significant values of VIP > 5 and P < 0.01. Results highlight differential regulation of 20 enzymatic genes that are involved in the biosynthesis of five different marker metabolites including acetaldehyde, homocysteine, cyclopropylamine, 1-pyrrolinium and halistanol sulfate.

CONCLUSIONS

The positive physiological effect of P. fortinii on R. crenulata encompasses differential regulation in carbohydrate metabolism, lipid metabolism and secondary metabolite synthesis. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry.

Phytochemical, Antibacterial and Antioxidant Activity Evaluation of Rhodiola crenulata

The chemical components, as well as the antibacterial and antioxidant activities of the essential oil (EO) and crude extracts prepared from Rhodiola crenulata were investigated. The essential oil was separated by hydrodistillation, and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was used to identify its constituents. A total of twenty-seven compounds was identified from the EO, and its major components were 1-octanol (42.217%), geraniol (19.914%), and 6-methyl-5-hepten-2-ol (13.151%). Solvent extraction and fractionation were applied for preparing the ethanol extract (crude extract, CE), petroleum ether extract (PE), ethyl acetate extract (EE), n-butanol extract (BE), and water extract (WE). The CE, EE and BE were abundant in phenols and flavonoids, and EE had the highest total phenol and total flavonoid contents. Gallic acid, ethyl gallate, rosavin and herbacetin were identified in the EE. The antibacterial activity results showed that the EO exhibited moderate inhibitory activity to the typical clinic bacteria, and EE exhibited the strongest antibacterial activity among the five extracts. For the compounds, ethyl gallate showed the strongest inhibitory activity to the test bacteria, and its minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) value and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) value for all the tested bacteria was 0.24 mg/mL and 0.48 mg/mL, respectively. The results of antioxidant activity showed that both CE and EE exhibited strong antioxidant activities in the DPPH radical scavenging and Fe2+ reducing power tests, however, EO showed relatively weaker antioxidant ability. Ethyl gallate and rosavin exhibited excellent activity in the DPPH radical scavenging assay, and their IC50 value was 5.3 µg/mL and 5.9 µg/mL, respectively. Rosavin showed better reduction power activity than the other three compounds. These results could provide more evidence for the traditional use of R. crenulata, and would be helpful for improving its application further.

Quantum Mechanics-Based Structure Analysis of Cyclic Monoterpene Glycosides from Rhodiola rosea

NMR- and MS-guided metabolomic mining for new phytoconstituents from a widely used dietary supplement, Rhodiola rosea, yielded two new (+)-myrtenol glycosides, 1 and 2, and two new cuminol glycosides, 3 and 4, along with three known analogues, 5-7. The structures of the new compounds were determined by extensive spectroscopic data analysis. Quantum mechanics-driven ¹H iterative full spin analysis (QM-HiFSA) decoded the spatial arrangement of the methyl groups in 1 and 2, as well as other features not recognizable by conventional methods, including higher order spin-coupling effects. Expanding applied HiFSA methodology to monoterpene glycosides advances the toolbox for stereochemical assignments, facilitates their structural dereplication, and provides a more definitive reference point for future phytochemical and biological studies of R. rosea as a resilience botanical. Application of a new NMR data analysis software package, CT, for QM-based iteration of NMR spectra is also discussed.

Protective Evaluation of Compounds Extracted from Root of Rhodiola rosea L. against Methylglyoxal-Induced Toxicity in a Neuronal Cell Line

Rhodiola rosea L. (R. rosea) is one of the most beneficial medicinal plants and it is studied as an adaptogen. This study aims to evaluate the neuroprotective activity of compounds extracted from the root of R. rosea against methylglyoxal (MG)-induced apoptosis in neuro-2A (N2A) cells. The root of R. rosea was extracted with ethanol and partitioned with water, ethyl acetate, and n-butanol fractions to evaluate acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitory activity and neuroprotective activity. The ethyl acetate fraction exhibited the highest values of AChE inhibitory activity (49.2% ± 3%) and cell viability (50.7% ± 4.8%) for neuroprotection. The structure identification of the most potential fraction (ethyl acetate fraction) revealed 15 compounds, consisting of three tannins, five flavonoids, and seven phenolics by infrared spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance, and mass spectroscopy. All compounds were evaluated for their neuroprotective activity. Salidroside had the most potential neuroprotective activity. Gallic acid and methyl gallate had potential cytotoxicity in N2A cells. This study showed that R. rosea might have potential neuroprotective activities.

Salidroside induces apoptosis and triggers endoplasmic reticulum stress in human hepatocellular carcinoma

Salidroside possesses excellent anti-tumor activity in many types of malignant tumor. In present study, we focused on the effects of salidroside on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The viability of human HCC cells was assayed using MTT. Apoptosis in the cells and tissues samples were detected by Annexin V/PI or TUNEL staining assays. The levels of apoptosis and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress related proteins were measured by western blotting analysis. We found salidroside significantly suppressed cell viability and promoted apoptosis in HCC cells. Salidroside could activate intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic pathways, by increasing activities of caspase-3, caspase-8 and caspase-9, up-regulating levels of Bax, Cytochrome c and decreasing level of Bcl-2 in HepG2 cells. Moreover, it was found salidroside induced ER stress and increased expression of p-PERK, eIF2a, p-eIF2a, ATF-6 and CHOP in HepG2 cells. Interestingly, knockdown of CHOP impaired salidroside induced inhibitory effects on HepG2 cells, suggesting the important role of ER stress in cytotoxic effect of salidroside. Finally, we have confirmed salidroside induced ER stress and inhibited development of HepG2 in an xenograft mouse model. In conclusion, our data suggest salidroside inhibits viability and induces apoptosis of HCC both in vitro and vivo, and this effect is partially mediated by activation of ER stress.

Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents for the Extraction of Phenyletanes and Phenylpropanoids of Rhodiola rosea L

The extraction of Rhodiola rosea rhizomes using natural deep eutectic solvent (NADES) consisting of lactic acid, glucose, fructose, and water was investigated. A two-level Plackett-Burman design with five variables, followed by the steepest ascent method, was undertaken to determine the optimal extraction conditions. Among the five parameters tested, particle size, extraction modulus, and water content were found to have the highest impact on the extrability of phenyletanes and phenylpropanoids. The concentration of active compounds was analyzed by HPLC. The predicted results showed that the extraction yield of the total phenyletanes and phenylpropanoids (25.62 mg/g) could be obtained under the following conditions: extraction time of 154 min, extraction temperature of 22 °C, extraction modulus of 40, molar water content of 5:1:11 (L-lactic acid:fructose:water, mol/mol), and a particle size of rhizomes of 0.5-1 mm. These predicted values were further verified by validation experiments in predicted conditions. The experimental yields of salidroside, tyrosol, rosavin, rosin, cinnamyl alcohol and total markers (sum of phenyletanes and phenylpropanoids in mg/g) were 11.90 ± 0.02, 0.36 ± 0.02, 12.23 ± 0.21, 1.41 ± 0.01, 0.20 ± 0.01, and 26.10 ± 0.27 mg/g, respectively, which corresponded well with the predicted values from the models.

Rhodiola rosea L. modulates inflammatory processes in a CRH-activated BV2 cell model

BACKGROUND

Rhodiola rosea L. (Crassulaceae) has been used for years in the traditional medicine of several countries as an adaptogen drug, able to preserve homeostasis in response to stress stimuli. Currently R. rosea roots and rhizome are classified as a traditional herbal medicinal product for temporary relief of symptoms of stress, such as fatigue and sensation of weakness by the European Medicines Agency.

HYPOTHESIS/PURPOSE

Increasing evidences suggest the involvement of neuroinflammation in response to stress. However, whether the modulation of neuroinflammatory parameters could be involved in the anti-stress effect of R. rosea has been barely studied. Thus, the aim of this work is to investigate the possible modulation of molecular inflammatory processes elicited by a R. rosea roots and rhizome ethanolic extract in an in vitro model of corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH)-stimulated BV2 microglial cells.

METHODS

BV2 cells were stimulated with CRH 100 nM and changes in cell viability, cytokines production and heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) levels were evaluated. Intracellular pathways related to inflammation, such as nuclear factor kappa-light-chain enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) nuclear translocation and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) activation were also analyzed.

RESULTS

We found that R. rosea extract (2.7% m/m rosavin and 1% m/m salidroside) 20 µg/ml was able to counteract the neuroinflammatory effect of CRH by inhibiting NF-κB nuclear translocation with a mechanism of action involving the modulation of mitogen-activated protein kinase-activated protein kinase 2 (MKK2), extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK 1/2) and c-Jun n-terminal kinase (JNK), resulting in a reduction of HSP70 expression.

CONCLUSION

This work expands the knowledge of the intracellular mechanisms involved in R. rosea anti-stress activity and may be useful for the study of other adaptogen drugs.

The growth performance and nonspecific immunity of red swamp crayfish Procambarus clarkia affected by dietary Rhodiola rosea polysaccharide

This study aims to investigate the effects of Rhodiola rosea polysaccharide (RRP) on the growth performance and nonspecific immunity of red swamp crayfish Procambarus clarkia. RRP was prepared by hot water extraction and partly characterised by high-performance liquid chromatography and sugar composition analyses. Three diets supplemented with three different levels of RRP (0.2, 0.6 and 1 g kg diet^-1) were formulated and tested for growth performance and nonspecific immunity of red swamp crayfish Procambarus clarkii, while a diet without any RRP supplementation served as control. After 8 weeks of feeding, body weight gain, feed efficiency, survival rate, phenoloxidase activity, superoxide dismutase activity, glutathione peroxidase level, total haemocyte count and number of hyaline cells, semigranular cells and granular cells and resistance to Aeromonas hydrophila were higher than those of the control. Moreover, based on the efficiency of RRP on the growth performance and nonspecific immunity of crayfish, the optimum dose of RRP was found to be 0.6 g kg diet^-1. Hence, intake of diets containing RRP could enhance the growth performance, immune responses and improve resistance of crayfish to infection by A. hydrophila.

Supplementation of Plants with Immunomodulatory Properties during Pregnancy and Lactation-Maternal and Offspring Health Effects

A pregnant woman’s diet consists of many products, such as fruits, vegetables, cocoa, tea, chocolate, coffee, herbal and fruit teas, and various commercially available dietary supplements, which contain a high number of biological active plant-derived compounds. Generally, these compounds play beneficial roles in women’s health and the development of fetus health. There are, however, some authors who report that consuming excessive amounts of plants that contain high concentrations of polyphenols may negatively affect the development of the fetus and the offspring’s health. Important and problematic issues during pregnancy and lactation are bacterial infections treatment. In the treatment are proposals to use plant immunomodulators, which are generally considered safe for women and their offspring. Additional consumption of biologically active compounds from plants, however, may increase the risk of occurrences to irreversible changes in the offspring’s health. Therefore, it is necessary to carry out safety tests for immunomodulators before introducing them into a maternal diet. Here, we present data from animal experiments for the four most-studied plants immunomodulators genus: Rhodiola, Echinacea, Panax, and Camellia, which were used in maternal nutrition.

Effects of anti-inflammatory and adaptogenic herbal extracts on gene expression of eicosanoids signaling pathways in isolated brain cells

INTRODUCTION

The adaptogens modulate expression of genes playing key roles in development of aging-related disorders, which are considered as low-grade systemic inflammatory conditions characterized by an imbalance between pro-and anti-inflammatory eicosanoids.

AIM OF THE STUDY

We compared the effects of anti-inflammatory and adaptogenic plant extracts on the expression of genes involved in biosynthesis of eicosanoids with the purpose to find those plants, which selectively upregulated the expression of anti-inflammatory lipoxins signaling pathways and inhibited pro-inflammatory signaling pathways associated with biosynthesis of leukotrienes, prostaglandins and thromboxanes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We conducted transcriptome-wide RNA sequencing to profile gene expression alterations in T98G neuroglia cells upon treatment of plant extract and analyzed the relevance of deregulated genes to eicosanoids signaling pathways using in silico models.

RESULTS

For the first time, we demonstrated that Rhodiola rosea, Withania somnifera and Eleutherococcus senticosus downregulate the expression of key genes (ALOX5AP, DPEP2, LTC4S) involved biosynthesis of leukotrienes A, B, C, D and E, resulting in inhibition of leukotriene signaling pathway suggesting their potential benefits in Alzheimer disease. The common feature for all tested anti-inflammatory plants extracts was related to downregulation of ALOX12, which was also associated with neuroprotective action of these medicinal plants as well as their potential benefits in neurodegenerative diseases. None of tested anti-inflammatory and adaptogenic plants selectively activated the ALOX15-mediated signaling pathway, which is associated with generation anti-inflammatory lipoxins. Almost all tested plants upregulated the expression of the prostaglandin E receptor 3 gene (PTGER3) suggesting their potential benefits in the treatment of cancer.

CONCLUSION

Every single plant tested in this study revealed a specific "signature" on eicosanoid signaling-related gene expression, regardless of their common features as anti-inflammatory or adaptogenic activity. Further studies of the combination of Rhodiola with Withania (Adaptra) for the treatment of Alzheimer disease are required.

Rhodiola rosea root extract has antipsychotic-like effects in rodent models of sensorimotor gating

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: The plant arctic root (Rhodiola rosea, L.) is growing in northern regions of Europe, Asia and North America. Extracts of R. rosea are used in traditional medicine for various conditions related to nervous system function. According to scientific studies from the last decades, the plant might have potential for use in the treatment of memory impairments, stress and depression, but reports concerning other neuropsychiatric disorders are scarce.

AIM OF THE STUDY

In this context, our study aimed to examine potential antipsychotic-like effects of R. rosea root extract.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We tested the effects of R. rosea root extract on prepulse inhibition in rats and mice. Prepulse inhibition is an established operational measure of sensorimotor gating, which is impaired in schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders.

RESULTS

R. rosea root extract increased prepulse inhibition in rats and mice. Interestingly, the R. rosea extract had stronger effects in those individual animals that had low baseline levels of prepulse inhibition. Therefore, we performed further experiments in which we pharmacologically induced a prepulse inhibition deficit by two different psychostimulants, either the dopamine D2 receptor agonist apomorphine or the NMDA receptor antagonist dizocilpine (MK-801). Pre-treatment with the R. rosea extract significantly restored both, apomorphine- and dizocilpine-induced prepulse inhibition deficits.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study demonstrates that R. rosea extract robustly reverses prepulse inhibition deficits in rodents. This suggests antipsychotic-like effects of R. rosea extract. Future studies should focus on the pharmacological mechanisms underlying these effects.

Adaptogens in chemobrain (Part II): Effect of plant extracts on chemotherapy-induced cytotoxicity in neuroglia cells

BACKGROUND

Cancer chemotherapy-induced cognitive impairments are apparently associated with harmful effects on physiological functions of brain cells. Adaptogens, are known to exhibit neuroprotective effects and to increase cognitive functions in clinical studies. In our previous study (Seo et al., 2018), we demonstrated that selected adaptogenic extracts significantly attenuate cytostatic-induced regulation of more than 100 genes involved in the activation of neuronal death and inhibiting neurogenesis. Neuroprotective and cytoprotective activities of adaptogens rise the question about their possible impact on cytostatic effects of a chemotherapeutic combination of 5-fluorouracil, epirubicin and cyclophosphamide (FEC).

AIM

The aim of this study was to assess the effects of selected adaptogenic herbal extracts, namely of andrographolide (AND), Herba Andrographidis (AP), Radix Eleutherococci (ES) genuine extracts, their fixed combination (AE), and the combination of three adaptogenic herbs, Rhodiola Radix, Shisandra Fructus and Eleutherococci Radix (RSE) on the cytotoxicity of a fixed combination of 5-fluorouracil, epirubicin and cyclophosphamide (FEC) on neuroglia cells.

METHODS

Cytotoxicity of FEC, adaptogenic extracts and their combination with FEC was tested on isolated T98G cells in a wide range of concentrations of all tested compounds.

RESULTS

FEC reproducibly inhibited the proliferation of T98G cells by 50% at concentrations of 5 × 10^-1 µg/ml epirubicin, 500 × 10^-1 µg/ml 5-fluorouracil and 20 × 10^-1 µg/ml 4-hydroperoxycyclophosphamide after 24 h incubation of cells. These concentrations were subsequently used for experiments with adaptogenic extracts. The cytotoxic activity of FEC was not significantly changed in the presence of AND, ES and AE. Furthermore, it was potentiated by AP extract and RSE in concentrations of 0.06-6 µg/ml and 17.6-26.4 µg/ml.

CONCLUSION

The neuroprotective effect of adaptogens did not attenuate the cytotoxic activity of FEC. Application of cytostatic drugs in combination with adaptogenic plant extracts likely have no impact in cytotoxic effect of FEC. Furthermore, AP and RSE potentiated the cytotoxic effects of FEC.

Neuroprotective effects of a Rhodiola crenulata extract on amyloid-β peptides (Aβ1-42) -induced cognitive deficits in rat models of Alzheimer's disease

BACKGROUND

Rhodiola crenulata has been wildly used as a healthy food, antidepressant and antifatigue for many years in China. Recent studies suggested that Rhodiola crenulata extract (RCE) has cognitive protective effects in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD).

PURPOSE

To assess the protective effects of RCE on cognitive deficits and clarify its therapeutic mechanisms in Aβ_1-42 -induced rat models of AD.

STUDY DESIGN

RCE was prepared by freeze-drying technology. Their protective effects on Aβ_1-42-induced rat models of AD and the preliminary therapeutic mechanisms were studied.

METHODS

The Y maze test and Morris water maze (MWM) test were conducted to evaluate the learning and memory abilities of the rats. Subsequently, biochemical assays, hematoxylin-eosin staining, immunohistochemistry and Western blotting were performed to elucidate the mechanisms.

RESULTS

RCE significantly increased the spontaneous alternation (F (6, 111) = 8.165, p < 0.001), prolonged the swimming time (F (6, 111) = 20.143, p < 0.001) and decreased the escape latency in rat models of AD. In addition, RCE significantly increased the acetylcholine (Ach) level and the choline acetyl transferase (ChAT) activity (F (6, 34) = 6.033, p < 0.001; F (6, 34) = 6.958, p < 0.001, respectively), repaired the damage of hippocampus neurons and prevented Aβ formation in the hippocampus in Aβ_1-42 injected rats. Moreover, RCE increased the superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and decreased the malondialdehyde (MDA) level in cortex of Aβ_1-42 injected rats (F (6, 34) = 5.097, p < 0.01; F (6, 34) = 2.907, p < 0.05, respectively), significantly reduced the expressions of p-tau (ser396) and induced the expressions of p-GSK3β (ser9) in hippocampus (F (6, 34) = 15.297, p < 0.001; F (6, 34) = 9.652, p < 0.001, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Our findings demonstrated that RCE significantly alleviated the learning and memory deficits in the Aβ_1-42-induced rat models of AD. The mechanisms involved its protection effects against cholinergic system deficiency, oxidative stress damage and GSK3β activation. RCE may be a potential therapeutic medicine with multi-targets to prevent the progression of cognitive deterioration in AD.

Adaptogens in chemobrain (Part III): Antitoxic effects of plant extracts towards cancer chemotherapy-induced toxicity - transcriptome-wide microarray analysis of neuroglia cells

BACKGROUND

Toxicity of chemotherapeutics is a serious problem in cancer therapy. Adaptogens are known to increase adaptability and survival organisms.

AIM

The aim of this study was to assess the effects of selected adaptogenic herbal extracts on FEC (fixed combination of 5-fluorouracil, epirubicin and cyclophosphamide) induced changes in transcriptome-wide microarray profiles of neuroglia cells. Another task of the study was to identify those genes, which are associated with FEC-induced hepato-, cardio- and nephrotoxicity to predict potential effects of andrographolide (AND), Andrographis herb, Eleutherococcus roots genuine extracts (ES), their fixed combination (AE) and the combination of Rhodiola roots, Schisandra berries and Eleutherococcus roots (RSE) on the organismal level.

METHODS

Gene expression profiling was performed by transcriptome-wide mRNA microarray in the human T98G neuroglia cells after treatment with adaptogens. Interactive pathways downstream analysis was performed with data sets of significantly up- or down-regulated genes and predicted effects on cellular functions and diseases were identified by Ingenuity IPA database software.

RESULT

Significant differences of transcriptome-wide microarray profiles were observed after treatment of T98G cells with FEC and after co-incubation with adaptogens. FEC induced deregulation of certain genes with suggested toxicity associated with liver fibroses, necrosis and congenital heart diseases. Co-incubation of AE with FEC prevented FEC-induced deregulation of 66 genes increasing organismal death, 37 genes decreasing cell survival, 37 genes decreasing DNA repair, 37 genes decreasing viral infection and some other functions, indicating on potential beneficial effects of AE. Furthermore, FEC-induced hepato-, nephro- and cardiotoxicity related to deregulation of genes was predictably attenuated by AE. Moreover, co-incubation of AE with FEC caused differential expression of genes, which presumably are beneficial for an organism during chemotherapy. They include predicted activation of DNA repair, activation of movement of antigen presenting cells and inhibition of muscle cells death. The main active constituent of AE is AND. Co-incubation of FEC only with AND results in deregulation of 10 genes causing death of breast cancer cells, decrease of liver toxicity and attenuation of organismal death. Co-incubation of ES extract with FEC showed that ES suppressed FEC-induced deregulation of genes, which inhibit organismal death and fertility. Co-incubation of FEC with RSE indicated potential hepatoprotective effect against FEC-induced apoptosis of liver cells presumably due to suppression of FEC-induced expressions of genes, which increased liver cell apoptosis. Simultaneously, RSE activated expression of genes inhibiting tumor growth. Though, microarray analysis did not provide final proof that the genes induced by the AE, AP and ES are responsible for the physiological effects observed in human patients following their oral administration, it provided insights into putative genes and directions for future research and possible implementation into practice.

CONCLUSION

Application of cytostatic drugs in combination with adaptogenic plant extracts induced significant changes in transcriptome-wide microarray profiles of neuroglial cells. These changes indicate on potential beneficial effects of adaptogens on FEC induced adverse events in cancer chemotherapy.

Salidroside Ameliorates Renal Interstitial Fibrosis by Inhibiting the TLR4/NF-κB and MAPK Signaling Pathways

Salidroside (Sal) is an active ingredient that is isolated from Rhodiola rosea, which has been reported to have anti-inflammatory activities and a renal protective effect. However, the role of Sal on renal fibrosis has not yet been elucidated. Here, the purpose of the current study is to test the protective effects of Sal against renal interstitial fibrosis (RIF), and to explore the underlying mechanisms using both in vivo and in vitro models. In this study, we establish the unilateral ureteric obstruction (UUO) or folic acid (FA)-induced mice renal interstitial fibrosis in vivo and the transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1-stimulated human proximal tubular epithelial cell (HK-2) model in vitro. The levels of kidney functional parameters and inflammatory cytokines in serum are examined. The degree of renal damage and fibrosis is determined by histological assessment. Immunohistochemistry and western blotting are used to determine the mechanisms of Sal against RIF. Our results show that treatment with Sal can ameliorate tubular injury and deposition of the extracellular matrix (ECM) components (including collagen Ш and collagen I). Furthermore, Sal administration significantly suppresses epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), as evidenced by a decreased expression of α-SMA, vimentin, TGF-β1, snail, slug, and a largely restored expression of E-cadherin. Additionally, Sal also reduces the levels of serum biochemical markers (serum creatinine, Scr; blood urea nitrogen, BUN; and uric acid, UA) and decreases the release of inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α). Further study revealed that the effect of Sal on renal interstitial fibrosis is associated with the lower expression of TLR4, p-IκBα, p-NF-κB and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK), both in vivo and in vitro. In conclusion, Sal treatment improves kidney function, ameliorates the deposition of the ECM components and relieves the protein levels of EMT markers in mouse kidneys and HK-2 cells. Furthermore, Sal treatment significantly decreases the release of inflammatory cytokines and inhibits the TLR4/NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways. Collectively, these results suggest that the administration of Sal could be a novel therapeutic strategy in treating renal fibrosis.

Adaptogens in chemobrain (Part I): Plant extracts attenuate cancer chemotherapy-induced cognitive impairment - Transcriptome-wide microarray profiles of neuroglia cells

BACKGROUND

Cancer chemotherapy-induced cognitive impairments are presumably associated with undesirable effects of chemotherapy on physiological functions of brain cells. Adaptogens are natural compounds or plant extracts increasing an organism's adaptability and survival in stress. They exhibited neuroprotective effects and increased cognitive functions in clinical studies in human beings.

HYPOTHESIS

We hypothesized that selected adaptogenic plant extracts attenuate or prevent cancer chemotherapy-induced cognitive impairments.

AIM

We assessed the effects of selected adaptogenic herbal extracts on FEC (fixed combination 5-fluorouracil, epirubicin and cyclophosphamide) induced changes in transcriptome-wide RNA microarray profiles of neuroglia cells. The aim of the study was to predict potential effects of andrographolide, Andrographis herb, Eleutherococcus root genuine extracts, their fixed combination (AE) and the combination of Rhodiola roots, Schisandra berries and Eleutherococcus roots (RSE) on cellular and physiological, mostly cognitive functions.

METHODS

Gene expression profiling was performed by transcriptome-wide mRNA microarray in the human T98G neuroglia cells after treatment with adaptogens. Interactive pathways downstream analysis was performed with data sets of significantly up- or down-regulated genes and predicted effects on cellular functions and diseases were identified by Ingenuity IPA database software.

RESULTS

FEC deregulated 67 genes involved in decrease of neuronal development, 37 genes involved in development of the sensory system, 12 genes in extension of axons, and 3 genes in migration of neurons. Co-incubation with Andrographis paniculata (AP) suppressed FEC-induced deregulation of a large number of genes involved in predicted activation of neuronal death and inhibition of neurogenesis, and 16 genes related to inhibition of several functions in the nervous system. Co-incubation with AE suppressed FEC-induced deregulation of a number of genes involved in predicted inhibition of axon extension, migration of T98G neuroglia cells, conduction of nerves and other genes related to regulations of some other functions in the nervous system.

CONCLUSION

Application of cytostatic drugs in combination with apoptogenic plant extracts induced significant changes in transcriptome-wide mRNA microarray profiles of neuroglial cells. These changes indicate on potential beneficial effects on neuronal functions associated with mild cognitive impairments in cancer chemotherapy.

[Ethanol extract of Rhodiola rosea L. regulates the number of tumor infiltrating T cells to enhance antitumor effect in Lewis lung cancer-bearing mice]

Objective To explore the anti-tumor immune function of the Tibetan medicine Rhodiola rosea L. (RRL). Methods Lewis lung cancer-bearing mice were randomly divided into normal saline group, 500 mg/kg RRL ethanol extract treatment group, and 10 mg/kg cyclophosphamide (CTX) treatment group. All the groups underwent the treatment for 10 days. The mouse survival rate and tumor inhibitory rate were calculated. Additionally, the numbers of CD4⁺T and CD8⁺ T cells of tumor infiltrating lymphocytes as well as the proportion of FOXP3⁺ regulatory T cells (Tregs) in the CD4⁺CD25⁺Tregs were detected by flow cytometry. Besides, the serum levels of interleukin 2 (IL-2) and γ-interferon (IFN-γ) in the tumor-bearing mice were examined through ELISA, and the spleen cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL) activity was detected by the lactic dehydrogenase (LDH) release assay. Results Lewis tumor-bearing mice treated with the ethanol extract of RRL showed remarkably enhanced survival rate and inhibited tumor growth. Furthermore, the number of tumor infiltrating CD4⁺T and CD8⁺ T cells increased, while the proportion of FOXP3⁺ Tregs in the CD4⁺CD25⁺Tregs showed a declined tendency. Meanwhile, the serum IFN-γ and IL-2 levels in Lewis tumor-bearing mice increased, and the killing capacity of spleen CTL was enhanced. Conclusion The ethanol extract of RRL has a positive role in enhancing the anti-tumor immunity by regulating the number and function of immunocytes.

Anti-atherosclerosis of oligomeric proanthocyanidins from Rhodiola rosea on rat model via hypolipemic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory activities together with regulation of endothelial function

BACKGROUND

Rhodiola rosea has been used as a traditional medicine for a long history. Previous studies on oligomeric proanthocyanidins from Rhodiola rosea (OPCRR) have showed that it exhibited significant free radical-scavenging activities, antioxidant activities in aging mice and lipid lowering effects.

HYPOTHESIS/PURPOSE

We hypothesized that OPCRR can improve the atherosclerosis pathological in rats. In the present study, we investigated the effects of OPCRR on the serum lipid profiles, oxidant stress status, inflammatory cytokines and atherosclerotic mediators, and endothelial dysfunction as well as changes in abdominal aorta of atherosclerosis rats.

METHODS

The major components of OPCRR were analyzed by using infrared spectrum and HPLC-ESI-MS. The atherosclerosis rat model was induced by high fat and vitamin D3 feeding for 9 weeks and two OPCRR doses (60 and 120 mg/kg b.w.) were orally administered daily for 9 weeks. The rats were then sacrificed and the blood was collected via abdominal aorta and serum was separated by centrifugated for biochemical analysis. Part of the aorta tissues were excised immediately for histopathological examination and western blotting.

RESULTS

Compared to model group, OPCRR treatments significantly decreased the serum lipid profiles including total cholesterol, total triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and ox-LDL and increased the high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C); significant increased serum antioxidant enzymes (SOD and GSH-Px) and decrease of MDA content as a product of lipid peroxidation; lowered serum levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 and enhanced IL-10 level; increased the serum release of nitric oxide and expression of iNOS in aortic, whereas decreased the expression of eNOS.

CONCLUSION

OPCRR can improve the progress of atherosclerosis by regulation of lipid metabolism, restoring of the antioxidant capacities, and attenuation of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemcytokines release, and improving the endothelial dysfunction indicated by nitric oxide system.

Novel molecular mechanisms for the adaptogenic effects of herbal extracts on isolated brain cells using systems biology

INTRODUCTION

Adaptogens are natural compounds or plant extracts that increase adaptability and survival of organisms under stress. Adaptogens stimulate cellular and organismal defense systems by activating intracellular and extracellular signaling pathways and expression of stress-activated proteins and neuropeptides. The effects adaptogens on mediators of adaptive stress response and longevity signaling pathways have been reported, but their stress-protective mechanisms are still not fully understood.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The aim of this study was to identify key molecular mechanisms of adaptogenic plants traditionally used to treat stress and aging-related disorders, i.e., Rhodiola rosea, Eleutherococcus senticosus, Withania somnifera, Rhaponticum carthamoides, and Bryonia alba.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

To investigate the underlying molecular mechanisms of adaptogens, we conducted RNA sequencing to profile gene expression alterations in T98G neuroglia cells upon treatment of adaptogens and analyzed the relevance of deregulated genes to adaptive stress-response signaling pathways using in silico pathway analysis software.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

At least 88 of the 3516 genes regulated by adaptogens were closely associated with adaptive stress response and adaptive stress-response signaling pathways (ASRSPs), including neuronal signaling related to corticotropin-releasing hormone, cAMP-mediated, protein kinase A, and CREB; pathways related to signaling involving CXCR4, melatonin, nitric oxide synthase, GP6, Gαs, MAPK, neuroinflammation, neuropathic pain, opioids, renin-angiotensin, AMPK, calcium, and synapses; and pathways associated with dendritic cell maturation and G-coupled protein receptor-mediated nutrient sensing in enteroendocrine cells. All samples tested showed significant effects on the expression of genes encoding neurohormones CRH, GNRH, UCN, G-protein-coupled and other transmembrane receptors TLR9, PRLR, CHRNE, GP1BA, PLXNA4, a ligand-dependent nuclear receptor RORA, transmembrane channels, transcription regulators FOS, FOXO6, SCX, STAT5A, ZFPM2, ZNF396, ZNF467, protein kinases MAPK10, MAPK13, MERTK, FLT1, PRKCH, ROS1, TTN), phosphatases PTPRD, PTPRR, peptidases, metabolic enzymes, a chaperone (HSPA6), and other proteins, all of which modulate numerous life processes, playing key roles in several canonical pathways involved in defense response and regulation of homeostasis in organisms. It is for the first time we report that the molecular mechanism of actions of melatonin and plant adaptogens are alike, all adaptogens tested activated the melatonin signaling pathway by acting through two G-protein-coupled membrane receptors MT1 and MT2 and upregulation of the ligand-specific nuclear receptor RORA, which plays a role in intellectual disability, neurological disorders, retinopathy, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and cancer, which are common in aging. Furthermore, melatonin activated adaptive signaling pathways and upregulated expression of UCN, GNRH1, TLR9, GP1BA, PLXNA4, CHRM4, GPR19, VIPR2, RORA, STAT5A, ZFPM2, ZNF396, FLT1, MAPK10, MERTK, PRKCH, and TTN, which were commonly regulated by all adaptogens tested. We conclude that melatonin is an adaptation hormone playing an important role in regulation of homeostasis. Adaptogens presumably worked as eustressors ("stress-vaccines") to activate the cellular adaptive system by inducing the expression of ASRSPs, which then reciprocally protected cells from damage caused by distress. Functional investigation by interactive pathways analysis demonstrated that adaptogens activated ASRSPs associated with stress-induced and aging-related disorders such as chronic inflammation, cardiovascular health, neurodegenerative cognitive impairment, metabolic disorders, and cancer.

CONCLUSION

This study has elucidated the genome-wide effects of several adaptogenic herbal extracts in brain cells culture. These data highlight the consistent activation of ASRSPs by adaptogens in T98G neuroglia cells. The extracts affected many genes playing key roles in modulation of adaptive homeostasis, indicating their ability to modify gene expression to prevent stress-induced and aging-related disorders. Overall, this study provides a comprehensive look at the molecular mechanisms by which adaptogens exerts stress-protective effects.

Authenticity identification and classification of Rhodiola species in traditional Tibetan medicine based on Fourier transform near-infrared spectroscopy and chemometrics analysis

Rhodiola is an increasingly widely used traditional Tibetan medicine and traditional Chinese medicine in China. The composition profiles of bioactive compounds are somewhat jagged according to different species, which makes it crucial to identify authentic Rhodiola species accurately so as to ensure clinical application of Rhodiola. In this paper, a nondestructive, rapid, and efficient method in classification of Rhodiola was developed by Fourier transform near-infrared (FT-NIR) spectroscopy combined with chemometrics analysis. A total of 160 batches of raw spectra were obtained from four different species of Rhodiola by FT-NIR, such as Rhodiola crenulata, Rhodiola fastigiata, Rhodiola kirilowii, and Rhodiola brevipetiolata. After excluding the outliers, different performances of 3 sample dividing methods, 12 spectral preprocessing methods, 2 wavelength selection methods, and 2 modeling evaluation methods were compared. The results indicated that this combination was superior than others in the authenticity identification analysis, which was FT-NIR combined with sample set partitioning based on joint x-y distances (SPXY), standard normal variate transformation (SNV) + Norris-Williams (NW) + 2nd derivative, competitive adaptive reweighted sampling (CARS), and kernel extreme learning machine (KELM). The accuracy (ACCU), sensitivity (SENS), and specificity (SPEC) of the optimal model were all 1, which showed that this combination of FT-NIR and chemometrics methods had the optimal authenticity identification performance. The classification performance of the partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) model was slightly lower than KELM model, and PLS-DA model results were ACCU = 0.97, SENS = 0.93, and SPEC = 0.98, respectively. It can be concluded that FT-NIR combined with chemometrics analysis has great potential in authenticity identification and classification of Rhodiola, which can provide a valuable reference for the safety and effectiveness of clinical application of Rhodiola.

Assessment of Human Skin Gene Expression by Different Blends of Plant Extracts with Implications to Periorbital Skin Aging

Since the skin is the major protective barrier of the body, it is affected by intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Environmental influences such as ultraviolet (UV) irradiation, pollution or dry/cold air are involved in the generation of radical oxygen species (ROS) and impact skin aging and dermal health. Assessment of human skin gene expression and other biomarkers including epigenetic factors are used to evaluate the biological/molecular activities of key compounds in cosmetic formulas. The objective of this study was to quantify human gene expression when epidermal full-thickness skin equivalents were exposed to: (a) a mixture of betaine, pentylene glycol, Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Rhodiola rosea root extract (BlendE) for antioxidant, skin barrier function and oxidative stress (with hydrogen peroxide challenge); and (b) a mixture of Narcissus tazetta bulb extract and Schisandra chinensis fruit extract (BlendIP) for various biomarkers and microRNA analysis. For BlendE, several antioxidants, protective oxidative stress biomarkers and many skin barrier function parameters were significantly increased. When BlendE was evaluated, the negative impact of the hydrogen peroxide was significantly reduced for the matrix metalloproteinases (MMP 3 and MMP 12), the skin aging and oxidative stress biomarkers, namely FBN2, ANXA1 and HGF. When BlendIP was tested for cell proliferation and dermal structural components to enhance the integrity of the skin around the eyes: 8 growth factors, 7 signaling, 7 structural/barrier function and 7 oxidative stress biomarkers were significantly increased. Finally, when BlendIP was tested via real-time RT-PCR for microRNA expression: miR-146a, miR-22, miR155, miR16 and miR21 were all significantly increased over control levels. Therefore, human skin gene expression studies are important tools to assess active ingredient compounds such as plant extract blends to advance dermal hypotheses toward validating cosmetic formulations with botanical molecules.

Memory enhancement by ferulic acid ester across species

Cognitive impairments can be devastating for quality of life, and thus, preventing or counteracting them is of great value. To this end, the present study exploits the potential of the plant Rhodiola rosea and identifies the constituent ferulic acid eicosyl ester [icosyl-(2E)-3-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-prop-2-enoate (FAE-20)] as a memory enhancer. We show that food supplementation with dried root material from R. rosea dose-dependently improves odor-taste reward associative memory scores in larval Drosophila and prevents the age-related decline of this appetitive memory in adult flies. Task-relevant sensorimotor faculties remain unaltered. From a parallel approach, a list of candidate compounds has been derived, including R. rosea-derived FAE-20. Here, we show that both R. rosea-derived FAE-20 and synthetic FAE-20 are effective as memory enhancers in larval Drosophila. Synthetic FAE-20 also partially compensates for age-related memory decline in adult flies, as well as genetically induced early-onset loss of memory function in young flies. Furthermore, it increases excitability in mouse hippocampal CA1 neurons, leads to more stable context-shock aversive associative memory in young adult (3-month-old) mice, and increases memory scores in old (>2-year-old) mice. Given these effects, and given the utility of R. rosea-the plant from which we discovered FAE-20-as a memory enhancer, these results may hold potential for clinical applications.

Understanding molecular mechanisms of Rhodiola rosea for the treatment of acute mountain sickness through computational approaches (a STROBE-compliant article)

Rhodiola rosea has been used in the treatment of acute mountain sickness (AMS) for a long time, but the mechanism of its action is not still completely clear. In this paper, the therapeutic mechanism of R rosea for AMS was investigated by analysis of the relationship between R rosea compositions and hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (HIF-1) degradation pathway.System biology and network biology, computational approaches were used to explore the molecular mechanisms of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM).Our results showed that chemical compositions of R rosea could inhibit the targets of HIF-1 degradation pathway in multi-composition/multi-target ways.We conclude that the 18 components with more than 2 targets and 5 targets (arrest-defective-1 [ARD1], forkhead transcription factor [FOXO4], osteosarcoma-9 [OS-9], prolyl hydroxylase 2 [PHD2], human double minute 2 [Hdm2]) deserve to be noticed, and PHD2, receptor for activated C-kinase1 (RACK1) and spermidine/spermine-N1-acetyltransferase-1 (SSAT1) may be the targets of active ingredients of rhodionin, rhodiosin, and rhodiolatuntoside, respectively.

Protective Effects of Rhodiola Crenulata Extract on Hypoxia-Induced Endothelial Damage via Regulation of AMPK and ERK Pathways

Rhodiola crenulata root extract (RCE) has been shown to possess protective activities against hypoxia both in vitro and in vivo. However, the effects of RCE on response to hypoxia in the endothelium remain unclear. In this study, we aimed to examine the effects of RCE in endothelial cells challenged with hypoxic exposure and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells were pretreated with or without RCE and then exposed to hypoxia (1% O₂) for 24 h. Cell viability, nitric oxide (NO) production, oxidative stress markers, as well as mechanistic readouts were studied. We found that hypoxia-induced cell death, impaired NO production, and oxidative stress. These responses were significantly attenuated by RCE treatment and were associated with the activation of AMP-activated kinase and extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 signaling pathways. In summary, we showed that RCE protected endothelial cells from hypoxic insult and suggested that R. crenulata might be useful for the prevention of hypoxia-associated vascular dysfunction.

Simultaneous Preparation of Salidroside and p-Tyrosol from Rhodiola crenulata by DIAION HP-20 Macroporous Resin Chromatography Combined with Silica Gel Chromatography

The Rhodiola species have a long history of utilization in traditional medicine and have been considered as a source of adaptation to environmental challenges; salidroside and p-tyrosol are the major responsible compounds. Here we propose a novel UPLC-guided two-step method consisting of a DIAION HP-20 adsorption and silica gel column chromatographies, which can simultaneously prepare high purities of salidroside and p-tyrosol with noticeable yields from the rhizome of Rhodiola crenulata. Results demonstrated that DIAION HP-20 could successfully remove all impurities except crenulatin during a gradient elution with 5–20% ethanol, which could achieve an optimal purification of salidroside and p-tyrosol with increasing rates of 29.19% and 33.44%, respectively. Furthermore, chloroform was selected as an ideal solvent for separating p-tyrosol with salidroside, and thus crenulatin was subsequently applied in the silica gel chromatography, and the separation of salidroside with crenulatin could be achieved using silica gel chromatography with a mixture of chloroform and methanol at a volume ratio of 4:1. High purity rates of 94.17% and 97.29% and overall yields of 39.09% and 43.73% for salidroside and p-tyrosol were simultaneously achieved. Our method provides a new way to simultaneously obtain salidroside and p-tyrosol from R. Crenulata, as well as other related plant species.

Upregulation of FLG, LOR, and IVL Expression by Rhodiola crenulata Root Extract via Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor: Differential Involvement of OVOL1

Rhodiola species are antioxidative, salubrious plants that are known to inhibit oxidative stress induced by ultraviolet and γ-radiation in epidermal keratinocytes. As certain phytochemicals activate aryl hydrocarbon receptors (AHR) or OVO-like 1 (OVOL1) to upregulate the expression of epidermal barrier proteins such as filaggrin (FLG), loricrin (LOR), and involucrin (IVL), we investigated such regulation by Rhodiola crenulata root extract (RCE). We demonstrated that RCE induced FLG and LOR upregulation in an AHR-OVOL1-dependent fashion. However, RCE-mediated IVL upregulation was AHR-dependent but OVOL1-independent. Coordinated upregulation of skin barrier proteins by RCE via AHR may be beneficial in the management of barrier-disrupted inflammatory skin diseases such as atopic dermatitis.