Light-Quality-Adapted Carotenoid Photoprotection in the Photosystem of Roseiflexus castenholzii.

The photosystem of filamentous anoxygenic phototroph Roseiflexus (Rfl.) castenholzii comprises a light-harvesting (LH) complex encircling a reaction center (RC), which intensely absorbs blue-green light by carotenoid (Car) and near-infrared light by bacteriochlorophyll (BChl). To explore the influence of light quality (color) on the photosynthetic activity, we compared the pigment compositions and triplet excitation dynamics of the LH-RCs from Rfl. castenholzii was adapted to blue-green light (bg-LH-RC) and to near-infrared light (nir-LH-RC). Both LH-RCs bind γ-carotene derivatives; however, compared to that of nir-LH-RC (12%), bg-LH-RC contains substantially higher keto-γ-carotene content (43%) and shows considerably faster BChl-to-Car triplet excitation transfer (10.9 ns vs 15.0 ns). For bg-LH-RC, but not nir-LH-RC, selective photoexcitation of Car and the 800 nm-absorbing BChl led to Car-to-Car triplet transfer and BChl-Car singlet fission reactions, respectively. The unique excitation dynamics of bg-LH-RC enhances its photoprotection, which is crucial for the survival of aquatic anoxygenic phototrophs from photooxidative stress.

Phytochemistry of Red Ginseng, a Steam-Processed Panax ginseng.

Asian ginseng, the root of Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer, occupies a prominent position in the list of best-selling natural products in the world. There are two major types of ginseng roots: white ginseng and red ginseng, each with numerous preparations. White ginseng is prepared by air-drying fresh Asian ginseng roots after harvest. Red ginseng is prepared by steaming roots in controlled conditions using fresh or raw Asian ginseng. Red ginseng is commonly used in Asian countries due to its unique chemical profile, different therapeutic efficacy, and increased stability. Compared with the widespread research on white ginseng, the study of red ginseng is relatively limited. In this paper, after a botanical feature description, the structures of different types of constituents in red ginseng are systematically described, including naturally occurring compounds and those resulting from the steam processing. In red ginseng phytochemical studies, the number of published reports on ginsenosides is significantly higher than that for other constituents. Up to now, 57 ginsenosides have been isolated and characterized in red ginseng. The structural transformation pathways during steaming have been summarized. In comparison with white ginseng, red ginseng also contains other constituents, including polyacetylenes, Maillard reaction products, other types of glycosides, lignans, amino acids, fatty acids, and polysaccharides, which have also been presented. Appropriate analytical methods are necessary for differentiating between unprocessed white ginseng and processed red ginseng. Specific marker compounds and chemical profiles have been used to discriminate red ginseng from white ginseng and adulterated commercial products. Additionally, a brief phytochemical profile comparison has been made between white ginseng and black ginseng, and the latter is another type of processed ginseng prepared from white or red ginseng by steaming several times. In conclusion, to ensure the safe and effective use of red ginseng, phytochemical and analytical studies of its constituents are necessary and even crucial.

Ruthenium-dihydroartemisinin complex: a promising new compound for colon cancer prevention via G1 cell cycle arrest, apoptotic induction, and adaptive immune regulation.

BACKGROUND: Artemisinin (ART) and its derivatives are important antimalaria agents and have received increased attention due to their broad biomedical effects, such as anticancer and anti-inflammation activities. Recently, ruthenium-derived complexes have attracted considerable attention as their anticancer potentials were observed in preclinical and clinical studies. METHODS: To explore an innovative approach in colorectal cancer (CRC) management, we synthesized ruthenium-dihydroartemisinin complex (D-Ru), a novel metal-based artemisinin derivative molecule, and investigated its anticancer, anti-inflammation, and adaptive immune regulatory properties. RESULTS: Compared with its parent compound, ART, D-Ru showed stronger antiproliferative effects on the human CRC cell lines HCT-116 and HT-29. The cancer cell inhibition of D-Ru comprised G1 cell cycle arrest via the downregulation of cyclin A and the induction of apoptosis. ART and D-Ru downregulated the expressions of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1ß, IL-6, and IL-8. Although ART and D-Ru did not suppress Treg cell differentiation, they significantly inhibited Th1 and Th17 cell differentiation. CONCLUSIONS: Our results demonstrated that D-Ru, a novel ruthenium complexation of ART, remarkably enhanced its parent compound's anticancer action, while the anti-inflammatory potential was not compromised. The molecular mechanisms of action of D-Ru include inhibition of cancer cell growth via cell cycle arrest, induction of apoptosis, and anti-inflammation via regulation of adaptive immunity.

Effects of Curcuminoids and Surfactant-Formulated Curcumin on Chemo-Resistant Colorectal Cancer.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of cancer-related death in the United States, and chronic gut inflammation is a risk factor for CRC initiation and development. Curcuma longa L., or turmeric, has become one of the most studied herbal medicines in recent years due to its anticancer potentials. It is generally accepted that the major component in turmeric is curcuminoids, and the active constituent in curcuminoids is curcumin. However, unprocessed curcumin is characterized by poor water solubility, which means low bioavailability in humans. To increase the bioavailability of curcumin, in this study, we utilized a novel surfactant-formulated curcumin (CuminUP60[Formula: see text]) and evaluated its CRC chemopreventive activities. Compared with the chemo-sensitive CRC cell line HCT-116, the management of the CRC SW-480 cell line is a challenge, since the latter is chemo-resistant. In other words, these cancer cells resist the effects of the chemotherapy. Using the newly formulated CuminUP60[Formula: see text] water solution, this study demonstrated its strong antiproliferative effects on the SW-480 cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner. This new formulation induced early apoptosis and arrested the cell cycle in the G2/M phase via the upregulation of cyclin B1. We also observed that this new formulation possessed inhibitory effects on Th17 cell differentiation, which regulates the body's immune response against gut malignancies. In summary, our results exhibited a potential clinical utility of the surfactant-formulated curcumin in chemo-resistant colorectal cancer management.

Hypoxia-responsive Immunostimulatory Nanomedicines Synergize with Checkpoint Blockade Immunotherapy for Potentiating Cancer Immunotherapy.

Inducing cell death while simultaneously enhancing antitumor immune responses is a promising therapeutic approach for multiple cancers. Celastrol (Cel) and 7-ethyl-10-hydroxycamptothecin (SN38) have contrasting physicochemical properties, but strong synergy in immunogenic cell death induction and anticancer activity. Herein, a hypoxia-sensitive nanosystem (CS@TAP) was designed to demonstrate effective immunotherapy for colorectal cancer by systemic delivery of an immunostimulatory chemotherapy combination. Furthermore, the combination of CS@TAP with anti-PD-L1 mAb (αPD-L1) exhibited a significant therapeutic benefit of delaying tumor growth and increased local doses of immunogenic signaling and T-cell infiltration, ultimately extending survival. We conclude that CS@TAP is an effective inducer of immunogenic cell death (ICD) in cancer immunotherapy. Therefore, this study provides an encouraging strategy to synergistically induce immunogenic cell death to enhance tumor cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) infiltration for anticancer immunotherapy.

Cardioprotective Effects of Tetrahydropalmatine on Acute Myocardial Infarction in Rats.

Tetrahydropalmatine (THP) is an active component of Corydalis yanhusuo W. T. Wang. The current study investigates the possible cardioprotective effects of tetrahydropalmatine in acute myocardial ischemia (AMI) rats. The anterior descending coronary artery of SD rats was ligated to establish an AMI model. After two weeks of gavage of THP, cardiac function was determined by echocardiography. The organ index and the infarct size were assessed after the experiment, and the histopathological myocardial tissue changes were observed. In addition, the apoptosis index of myocardial cells was detected by the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay. The levels of SOD, MDA, CAT, GSH-Px, BNP, and cTn-I were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. To determine relevant proteins, the Western blot and molecular docking were applied. Compared with the model group, THP could enhance rat cardiac ejection function to improve cardiac function, drastically lessen the infarct size, reduce myocardial cell damage and inflammatory cell infiltration. THP might also prevent ischemic myocardial damage by inhibiting myocardial cell apoptosis and efficiently reducing oxidative stress. Specifically, THP could decrease MDA, BNP, c-TnI activities, as well as the expression of Bax and Caspase-3 protein, while increasing SOD, GSH-Px, CAT activities, and Bcl-2 level. Furthermore, THP could significantly promote the phosphorylation of PI3K and Akt proteins. The involved pathways and proteins have also been verified through molecular docking. According to these findings, THP may preserve the myocardium due to its anti-oxidant and anti-apoptotic properties.

Muscone suppresses myocardial ischemia damage by regulating PI3K/Akt signaling pathway.

Muscone is the main active compound of Moschus. In this paper, the cardioprotective effect of Muscone on acute myocardial ischemia (AMI) rats and its potential mechanisms were investigated. AMI rat models were established to evaluate the protective effect and antioxidative function of Muscone on the hearts. Moreover, Western blot analysis was conducted to quantify the phosphorylated PI3K and AKT levels in PI3K/Akt pathway for further investigating the mechanism of Muscone. Results showed that Muscone could markedly lessen the infarct size and myocardial injury, improve cardiac function, inhibit cardiomyocyte apoptosis and down-regulate serum reactive oxygen species level as indicated by the decreased MDA, BNP and c-TnI activities and the increased SOD, GSH-px, CAT activities and the expression of Bax protein. In addition, it was revealed that Muscone notably promoted the phosphorylation of PI3K and AKT. These findings denote that Muscone exerts a protective effect in heart via inhibition of oxidative stress and apoptosis, offering new insights into the treatment of CHD and the clinical application of Muscone.

Effects of dihydroartemisinin, a metabolite of artemisinin, on colon cancer chemoprevention and adaptive immune regulation.

BACKGROUND: Artemisinin (ART) is an anti-malaria natural compound with a moderate anticancer action. As a metabolite of ART, dihydroartemisinin (DHA) may have stronger anti-colorectal cancer (CRC) bioactivities. However, the effects of DHA and ART on CRC chemoprevention, including adaptive immune regulation, have not been systematically evaluated and compared. METHODS: Coupled with a newly-established HPLC analytical method, enteric microbiome biotransformation was conducted to identify if the DHA is a gut microbial metabolite of ART. The anti-CRC potential of these compounds was compared using two different human CRC cell lines for cell cycle arrest, apoptotic induction, and anti-inflammation activities. Naive CD4+ T cells were also obtained for testing the compounds on the differentiation of Treg, Th1 and Th17. RESULTS: Using compound extraction and analytical methods, we observed for the first time that ART completely converted into its metabolites by gut microbiome within 24 h, but no DHA was detected. Although ART did not obviously influence cancer cell growth in the concentration tested, DHA very significantly inhibited the cancer cell growth at relatively low concentrations. DHA included G2/M cell cycle arrest via upregulation of cyclin A and apoptosis. Both ART and DHA downregulated the pro-inflammatory cytokine expression. The DHA significantly promoted Treg cell proliferation, while both ART and DHA inhibited Th1 and Th17 cell differentiation. CONCLUSIONS: As a metabolite of ART, DHA possessed stronger anti-CRC activities. The DHA significantly inhibited cell growth via cell cycle arrest, apoptosis induction and anti-inflammation actions. The adaptive immune regulation is a related mechanism of actions for the observed effects.

Falcarindiol and dichloromethane fraction are bioactive components in Oplopanax elatus: Colorectal cancer chemoprevention via induction of apoptosis and G2/M cell cycle arrest mediated by cyclin A upregulation.

Oplopanax elatus (Nakai) Nakai has a long history of use as an ethnomedicine by the people living in eastern Asia. However, its bioactive constituents and cancer chemopreventive mechanisms are largely unknown. The aim of this study was to prepare O. elatus extracts, fractions, and single compounds and to investigate the herb's antiproliferative effects on colon cancer cells and the involved mechanisms of action. Two polyyne compounds were isolated from O. elatus, falcarindiol and oplopandiol. Based on our HPLC analysis, falcarindiol and oplopandiol are major constituents in the dichloromethane (CH2Cl2) fraction. For the HCT-116 cell line, the dichloromethane fraction showed significant effects. Furthermore, the IC50 for falcarindiol and oplopandiol was 1.7 µM and 15.5 µM, respectively. In the mechanistic study, after treatment with 5 µg/ml for 48 h, dichloromethane fraction induced cancer cell apoptosis by 36.5% (p < 0.01% vs. control of 3.9%). Under the same treatment condition, dichloromethane fraction caused cell cycle arrest at the G2/M phase by 32.6% (p < 0.01% vs. control of 23.4%), supported by upregulation of key cell cycle regulator cyclin A to 21.6% (p < 0.01% vs. control of 8.6%). Similar trends were observed by using cell line HT-29. Data from this study filled the gap between phytochemical components and the cancer chemoprevention of O. elatus. The dichloromethane fraction is a bioactive fraction, and falcarindiol is identified as an active constituent. The mechanisms involved in cancer chemoprevention by O. elatus were apoptosis induction and G2/M cell cycle arrest mediated by a key cell cycle regulator cyclin A.

Hsp90-associated DNA replication checkpoint protein and proteasome-subunit components are involved in the age-related macular degeneration.

BACKGROUND: Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of vision loss worldwide. However, the mechanisms involved in the development and progression of AMD are poorly delineated. We aimed to explore the critical genes involved in the progression of AMD. METHODS: The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in AMD retinal pigment epithelial (RPE)/choroid tissues were identified using the microarray datasets GSE99248 and GSE125564, which were downloaded from the gene expression omnibus database. The overlapping DEGs from the two datasets were screened to identify DEG-related biological pathways using gene ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analyses. The hub genes were identified from these DEGs through protein-protein interaction network analyses. The expression levels of hub genes were evaluated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction following the induction of senescence in ARPE-19 with FK866. Following the identification of AMD-related key genes, the potential small molecule compounds targeting the key genes were predicted by PharmacoDB. Finally, a microRNA-gene interaction network was constructed. RESULTS: Microarray analyses identified 174 DEGs in the AMD RPE compared to the healthy RPE samples. These DEGs were primarily enriched in the pathways involved in the regulation of DNA replication, cell cycle, and proteasome-mediated protein polyubiquitination. Among the top ten hub genes, HSP90AA1, CHEK1, PSMA4, PSMD4, and PSMD8 were upregulated in the senescent ARPE-19 cells. Additionally, the drugs targeting HSP90AA1, CHEK1, and PSMA4 were identified. We hypothesize that Hsa-miR-16-5p might target four out of the five key DEGs in the AMD RPE. CONCLUSIONS: Based on our findings, HSP90AA1 is likely to be a central gene controlling the DNA replication and proteasome-mediated polyubiquitination during the RPE senescence observed in the progression of AMD. Targeting HSP90AA1, CHEK1, PSMA4, PSMD4, and/or PSMD8 genes through specific miRNAs or small molecules might potentially alleviate the progression of AMD through attenuating RPE senescence.

Investigating the Pharmacological Mechanisms of SheXiang XinTongNing Against Coronary Heart Disease Based on Network Pharmacology and Experimental Evaluation.

SheXiang XinTongNing (XTN), which is composed of six traditional Chinese herbs, is a commercially available Chinese patent medicine that has been widely used as the treatment of coronary heart disease (CHD). Its mechanisms against coronary heart disease, however, remain largely unknown. This study aimed to investigate the pharmacological mechanisms of XTN against CHD via network pharmacology and experimental evaluation. In this study, GO enrichment and KEGG pathway enrichment were firstly performed for acquiring the potentially active constituents of XTN, the candidate targets related to coronary heart disease, the drug-components-targets network as well as the protein-protein interaction network and further predicting the mechanisms of XTN against coronary heart disease. Subsequently, a series of in vitro experiments, specifically MTT assay, flow cytometry and Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis, and a succession of in vivo experiments, including Tunel staining and immunohistochemical staining were conducted for further verification. Results showed that Bcl-2, IGF1, CASP3 were the key candidate targets which significantly associated with multiple pathways, namely PI3K-Akt signaling pathway and MAPK signaling pathway. It indicated that the potential mechanism of XTN against CHD may be predominantly associated with cell apoptosis. The in vitro experimental results showed that XTN treatment remarkably decreased the apoptotic rate and Bax/Bcl-2 ratio of H9c2 cells. Histological results confirmed that XTN not only effectively alleviated oxidative damage caused by myocardial ischemia but inhibited cell apoptosis. Given the above, through the combined utilization of virtual screening and experimental verification, the findings suggest that XTN makes a significant contribution in protecting the heart from oxidative stress via regulating apoptosis pathways, which lays the foundations and offers an innovative idea for future research.

Sirtuin 3 Ameliorates Lung Senescence and Improves Type II Alveolar Epithelial Cell Function by Enhancing the FoxO3a-Dependent Antioxidant Defense Mechanism.

Lung aging alters the intrinsic structure of the lung and pulmonary surfactant system and increases the mortality and morbidity due to respiratory diseases in elderly individuals. We hypothesized that lung aging results from an insufficiency of type II alveolar epithelial cells (AECIIs) in the lung tissue. Sirtuin 3 (SIRT3) is a member of the sirtuin family of proteins that promote longevity in many organisms. Increased SIRT3 expression has been linked to an extended life span in humans. Hence, we speculated that the overexpression of SIRT3 may help to ameliorate lung senescence and improve AECII function. AECIIs were isolated from young and old patients with pneumothorax caused by pulmonary bullae. The expression of SIRT3, manganese superoxide dismutase, and catalase, as well as cell function and senescence indicators of young and old AECIIs, was measured before and after SIRT3 overexpression. After SIRT3 overexpression, the aged state of old AECIIs improved, and antiapoptotic activity, proliferation, and secretion were dramatically enhanced. Surfactant protein C (SPC), which is secreted by AECIIs, reduces alveolar surface tension, repairs the alveolar structure, and regulates inflammation. SPC deficiency in patients is associated with increased inflammation and delayed repair. SIRT3 deacetylated forkhead box O3a, thereby protecting mitochondria from oxidative stress and improving cell function and the senescent state of old AECIIs. These findings provide a possible direction for aging-delaying therapies and interventions for diseases of the respiratory system.

Screen of anti-migraine active compounds from Duijinsan by spectrum-effect relationship analysis and molecular docking.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Duijinsan (DJS) is a famous Chinese medicine prescription composed of Radix scutellariae (RS) and Rhei Radix (RRR), which has been mainly used for treating migraine. AIM OF THE STUDY: This study aimed to uncover the anti-migraine active compounds from DJS and preliminary predicted the pharmacological mechanism by evaluating the spectrum-effect relationship between high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) fingerprints and anti-migraine effects of Duijinsan (DJS) extract combined with molecular docking. MATERIALS AND METHODS: HPLC and LC-MS were applied for chemical analyses of DJS extracts in different proportions. Inhibition of DJS extracts on trigeminal nerve cell releasing calcitonin gene related peptide (CGRP) experiment was performed. The active compounds were screened by spectrum-effect relationship analysis and confirmed by molecular docking and the activities of major predicted compounds were validated in vitro. RESULTS: Twenty-six common peaks were assigned and identified from the fingerprints of different proportions DJS extracts. In vitro experimental results showed that DJS extracts inhibited inflammation and release of CGRP from trigeminal nerve cells. Five predicted active compounds, Chrysin 6-C-arabinoside 8-C-glucoside, Chrysin 6-C-glucoside 8-C-arabinoside, baicalin, Chrysin-7-O-Beta-D-glucoronide and Oroxylin A 7-O-glucuronide were sorted out according to spectrum-effect relationship analysis and molecular docking comprehensively. In vitro validation experiments showed that all the predicted compounds inhibited the CGRP releasing and the activation of TRPV1 channel. Baicalin, chrysin-7-O-ß-D-glucuronide and Oroxylin A-7-glucoronide significantly inhibited the activation of TRPV1 channel. CONCLUSION: Chrysin 6-C-arabinoside 8-C-glucoside, Chrysin 6-C-glucoside 8-C-arabinoside, baicalin, Chrysin-7-O-Beta-D-glucoronide and Oroxylin A 7-O-glucuronide which can inhibit the CGRP releasing and the activation of TRPV1 channel were screened as the anti-migraine active compounds by spectrum-effect relationship analysis and molecular docking.

Self-Nanoemulsifying Drug Delivery System of Genkwanin: A Novel Approach for Anti-Colitis-Associated Colorectal Cancer.

PURPOSE: The aim of the present study was to develop an optimized Genkwanin (GKA)-loaded self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (SNEDDS) formulation to enhance the solubility, intestinal permeability, oral bioavailability and anti-colitis-associated colorectal cancer (CAC) activity of GKA. METHODS: We designed a SNEDDS comprised oil phase, surfactants and co-surfactants for oral administration of GKA, the best of which were selected by investigating the saturation solubility, constructing pseudo-ternary phase diagrams, followed by optimizing thermodynamic stability, emulsification efficacy, self-nanoemulsification time, droplet size, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), drug release and intestinal permeability. In addition, the physicochemical properties and pharmacokinetics of GKA-SNEDDS were characterized, and its anti-colitis-associated colorectal cancer (CAC) activity and potential mechanisms were evaluated in AOM/DSS-induced C57BL/6J mice model. RESULTS: The optimized nanoemulsion formula (OF) consists of Maisine CC, Labrasol ALF and Transcutol HP in a weight ratio of 20:60:20 (w/w/w), in which ratio the OF shows multiple improvements, specifically small mean droplet size, excellent stability, fast release properties as well as enhanced solubility and permeability. Pharmacokinetic studies demonstrated that compared with GKA suspension, the relative bioavailability of GKA-SNEDDS was increased by 353.28%. Moreover, GKA-SNEDDS not only significantly prevents weight loss and improves disease activity index (DAI) but also reduces the histological scores of inflammatory cytokine levels as well as inhibiting the formation of colon tumors via inducing tumor cell apoptosis in the AOM/DSS-induced CAC mice model. CONCLUSION: Our results show that the developed GKA-SNEDDS exhibited enhanced oral bioavailability and excellent anti-CAC efficacy. In summary, GKA-SNEDDS, using lipid nanoparticles as the drug delivery carrier, can be applied as a potential drug delivery system for improving the clinical application of GKA.

Chinese medicine GeGen-DanShen extract protects from myocardial ischemic injury through promoting angiogenesis via up-regulation of VEGF/VEGFR2 signaling pathway.

HEADINGS ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Coronary heart disease (CHD) usually refers to myocardial ischemia or myocardial necrosis caused by coronary artery stenosis. GeGen and DanShen (GD) are popular Chinese herbs for the treatment of angina pectoris and myocardial infarction (MI). This sentence needs to be a separate paragraph. AIM OF THE STUDY: This study was to investigate the role of GD extract in promoting ischemic myocardial angiogenesis, and to explore its signaling mechanism, so as to provide a more reliable scientific basis for the clinical treatment of ischemic cardiovascular disease. MATERIALS AND METHODS: GD extract was initially analyzed by HPLC-Q-TOF MS. In vitro, migration assay and tube formation assay were subsequently used to detect the angiogenesis activity of GD extract in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Following the in vitro study, an MI rat model was established by ligating the left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD), immediately followed by a 4-week daily GD extract treatment by intragastric administration. After the animal sacrifice, hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining was conducted to observe the pathological changes of the infarct margin. Besides, the MI area was measured by 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazoliumchloride (TTC) staining. The microvascular density (MVD) was also quantified through CD31 immunohistochemistry. Moreover, the levels of VEGF, TXB2 and 6-keto-PGF1α in serum were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The expression of VEGFR2 and ERK were detected by immunohistochemistry as well. RESULTS: In vitro study, GD extract was found to induce significant angiogenesis in HUVECs. In vivo, smaller infarct size was found in treatment groups than that of the model group, and the protein expression of VEGFR2 as well as ERK in the marginal zone of MI in treatment groups were significantly increased. The morphological changes of myocardium were observed with a significant growth in the number of new blood vessels. Regarding the effect of GD extract, the serum levels of CK, LDH and TXB2 were consequently reduced, whereas the levels of VEGF, 6-keto-PGF1α were significantly increased. CONCLUSIONS: Based on the findings of this study, GD extract had a protective effect against MI in rats. The possible mechanism is to promote angiogenesis by regulating the VEGF/VEGFR2 signaling pathway after MI occurrence.

Comprehensive evaluation on anti-inflammatory and anti-angiogenic activities in vitro of fourteen flavonoids from Daphne Genkwa based on the combination of efficacy coefficient method and principal component analysis.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Genkwa flos, as a traditional herb, is the dried flower buds of Daphne genkwa Sieb.et Zucc. It is used in traditional medicine for the treatment of cough, sore throats, edema. AIM OF THE STUDY: The study aimed to explore a new mathematical method for multivariate evaluation, investigate the anti-inflammatory and anti-angiogenic activities of flavonoids in Daphne Genkwa under ex vivo conditions. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The flavonoids monomers in Daphne Genkwa were separated by preparative liquid chromatography and identified by HPLC-ESI-ITMS. An in vitro inflammatory model of macrophage RAW264.7 induced by LPS and an angiogenesis model of human umbilical vein endothelial cells induced by TNF-α were established. Flavonoids were extracted and prepared for intervention to detect the amount of secretion after drug intervention to reflect the anti-inflammatory and anti-angiogenic activities of each component. In addition, a new mathematical method, which combined principal component analysis and efficacy coefficient method, was adopted in pharmacodynamic evaluation. RESULTS: Fourteen flavonoids monomers were separated by preparative liquid chromatography and identified by HPLC-ESI-ITMS including H1 (hydroxygenkwanin-5-O-ß-D-glucoside), H2 (apigenin-7-O-ß-D-glucoside), H3 (kaempferol-3-O-ß-D-glucoside), H4 (hydroxygenkwanin-5-O-ß-D-primeveroside), H5 (apigenin-5-O-ß-D-primeveroside), H6 (apigenin-7-O-ß-D-glucuronide), H7 (luteolin-5-O-ß-D-glucopyranoside), H8 (genkwain-5-O-ß-D- glucoside), H9 (luteolin), H10 (Daphnodorin G), H11 (tiliroside), H12 (apigenin), H13 (3'- hydroxygenkwain) and H14 (genkwanin). We found that most of flavonoids down-regulated VCAM and MMP-3, while H1, H8, H9, H14 reduced VEGF and ICAM was only decreased by H14. CONCLUSION: Genkwanin may be the most active anti-rheumatoid arthritis flavonoids in Daphne genkwa. Meanwhile, the new mathematical method used in the study provided a new direction for solving the problem of multi-index pharmacodynamic evaluation.

Evidence for the existence of CD34+ angiogenic stem cells in human first-trimester decidua and their therapeutic for ischaemic heart disease.

Stem cell transplantation is nearly available for clinical application in the treatment of ischaemic heart disease (IHD), where it may be joined traditional methods (intervention and surgery). The angiogenic ability of seed cells is essential for this applicability. The aim of this study was to reveal the presence of CD34+ angiogenic stem cells in human decidua at the first trimester and to use their strong angiogenic capacity in the treatment of IHD. In vitro, human decidual CD34+ (dCD34+ ) cells from the first trimester have strong proliferation and clonality abilities. After ruling out the possibility that they were vascular endothelial cells and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), dCD34+ cells were found to be able to form tube structures after differentiation. Their angiogenic capacity was obviously superior to that of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs). At the same time, these cells had immunogenicity similar to that of BMSCs. Following induction of myocardial infarction (MI) in adult rats, infarct size decreased and cardiac function was significantly enhanced after dCD34+ cell transplantation. The survival rate of cells increased, and more neovasculature was found following dCD34+ cell transplantation. Therefore, this study confirms the existence of CD34+ stem cells with strong angiogenic ability in human decidua from the first trimester, which can provide a new option for cell-based therapies for ischaemic diseases, especially IHD.

Anti-migraine effect of wine-processed Radix scutellariae: Pharmacodynamic verification in nitroglycerin-induced rats and correlation study between compounds dissolution and the fractal dimension.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Wine-processed Radix scutellariae (RS) is the processed product of RS, which is the dried root of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi. It is recorded in Chinese traditional formula that wine-processed RS has the effect of anti-migraine, while the effect has not been confirmed and the possible mechanism remains unclear. AIM OF THE STUDY: To verify the anti-migraine effect of wine-processed RS in nitroglycerin (NTG)-induced rats and explore the correlation between compounds dissolution and the pore structure based on fractal theory. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In the validation of pharmacodynamics, the effects of wine-processed RS on migraines were firstly evaluated by observing the number of head-scratching of rats, then investigated by determining the levels of nitric oxide (NO), calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and the expression of c-Fos in the brain of NTG-induced rat models using ELISA and immunohistochemical assessments. In the correlation study, the stir-frying time of RS was set to 5 min, 10 min and 15 min. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) and mercury intrusion method were used to explore the pore structure and main parameters of the pore structure including pore size distribution, pore volume, porosity, surface area and fractal dimension. The compounds dissolution of total flavonoids and five major components containing baicalein, baicalin, scutellarin, wogonin and wogonoside was determined by UV-Vis spectrophotometry and HPLC separately. RESULTS: The animal experiments had shown that wine-processed RS could significantly reduce the head-scratching times of NTG-induced rat models (p < 0.01) and markedly decrease the levels of NO (p < 0.01), CGRP (p < 0.05) and the expression of c-Fos (p < 0.01) compared with model group. The data indicated that wine-processing would affect the dissolution of compounds by changing the pore structure of RS. The order of positive correlation between pore structure parameters and compounds' dissolution was total surface area > fractal dimension (r > 0) and the order of negative correlation was average pore size > total porosity > total volume (r < 0). Compared with the other sample groups (p < 0.05), the wine-processed RS stir-fried for 10 min had a pore structure which was more favorable for compounds dissolution. CONCLUSIONS: Wine-processing could strengthen the anti-migraine effect of RS by changing the pore structure of RS, which is linked to the dissolution of compounds. The RS stir-fried for 10 min may be more effective in treating migraine.

Human intestinal microbiota derived metabolism signature from a North American native botanical Oplopanax horridus with UPLC/Q-TOF-MS analysis.

Oplopanax horridus, widely distributed in North America, is an herbal medicine traditionally used by Pacific indigenous peoples for various medical conditions. After oral ingestion, constituents in O. horridus extract (OhE) could be converted to their metabolites by the enteric microbiome before absorption. In this study, in order to mimic gut environment, the OhE was biotransformed using the enteric microbiome of healthy human subjects. For accurate and reliable data collection with optimized approaches in sample preparation and analytical conditions, ultra-performance liquid chromatography and quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry were used to characterize parent constituents and their metabolites. In the extract, 20 parent compounds were identified including polyynes, sesquiterpenes, monoterpeondids, phenylpropanoids and phenolic acids. After the biotransformation, a total of 78 metabolites were identified, of which 37 belonged to polyynes metabolites. The common biotransformation pathways are hydroxylation, acetylization, methylation and demethylation. Based on the pathway distributions, the metabolism signature of OhE has been explored. The metabolism pathways of OhE compounds are dependent on their structural classifications and hydrophilic/hydrophobic properties. In summary, with comprehensive analysis, we systematically investigated human microbiome-derived OhE metabolites. The enteric microbial metabolism signature provides novel information for future effective use of O. horridus.

Effect of liquiritin on neuroendocrine-immune network in menopausal rat model.

PURPOSE: The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of liquiritin on neuroendocrine-immune network in menopausal rat model. METHODS: Liquiritin groups were respectively given liquiritin suspension at the dose of 80, 40, and 20 mg/kg, once a day for continuous 30 days after the removal of bilateral ovaries to induce the menopausal rat model. Behavioral experiments were conducted and the organs were weighed for the viscera index. The content of estradiol (E2 ) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in the serum and 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and norepinephrine (NE) in hypothalamus were assayed by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay kits. Morphological changes of uterus and adrenal gland were observed by hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining and estrogen receptor (ER) expression of uterus and spleen were determined by immunohistochemical staining. RESULTS: For the nervous system, liquiritin relieved menopausal depression and up-regulated the levels of 5-HT and NE in hypothalamus; for the endocrine system, it raised the concentrations of E2 and FSH in serum, relieved the histological changes of uterus and adrenal gland and increased the expression of ER in uterus; for the immune system, it increased the thymus index and the expression of ER in spleen. CONCLUSIONS: Liquiritin improved menopausal syndrome in multiple ways by affecting the neuro-endocrine-immune network.